The 12 things to do in Île-de-France

Forget the prejudices and go on holiday in the French region with our 12 must-sees to visit in Île-de-France!

Obviously there is Paris, worldwide known and in the top tourist destinations in the world. But there is not only the French capital to visit in Île-de-France, far from there. The region, already prosperous during Antiquity, has become the country’s neuralgic centre from the Middle Ages to the present day. As a result, Île-de-France has an incredible concentration of historical monuments, parks, landscape gardens and other exceptional museums.

In the shadow of Paris and the concrete bars of its suburbs, one also tends to forget that the French region has preserved beautiful natural spaces. To discover the most beautiful places in the region, here are our 12 essential things to visit in Île de France.

1. Paris

It is impossible to visit the Île-de-France without beginning with the Ville Lumière. Of course there are museums , Le Louvre , Orsay in an old station of the nineteenth century, Centre Pompidou with its playful architecture and so many others.

And then, there are different neighborhoods, like so many mini-villages with their own atmosphere. Or even the walks in the covered passages where it makes good to stroll and discover hidden treasures. Don't forget to discover Paris at night too, she owes her nickname. In short, a programme with a perspective.

2. The flea market of Saint-Ouen

His reputation is no longer to be done, it must be said that it is the oldest chip market in the world. We love or not, but it is to do in Île-de-France at least once in his life. The most famous part is that dedicated to embracing and antiquities with the famous markets Paul Bert, Serpette and Vernaison among others.

The Malik and Plateau markets are dedicated to clothing. Finally, there are the streets reserved for street unpackers who take a place during the day with just a few trestles. This latter part does not benefit from the connected aura of others but it is nevertheless the one that corresponds most to the tradition of chips.

3. The guinguettes of the edges of Marne

It is clichés that we are houru·ses to live and the guinguettes are part of it! They have been worshipped in Île-de-France since the late 19th century when the Parisien·ne·s were going to guincher on the water.

If some have not resisted the time that passes, some still exist and it’s so much better because there’s no better way to spend a Sunday in the beautiful season. Everything is there, tiles, white wine, accordion and parquet to dance.

4. Versailles

There are so many things to do in Versailles, starting with its castle, of course, which occupies the first place of those to visit in Île-de-France. The visit leaves mouthful in front of the splendour of the royal apartments, the richness of the gildings of the Galerie des Glaces and the beauty of architecture.

If you are there in spring-summer, you must go to the gardens with a perfect perspective and enjoy the enchantment of the Grandes Eaux Musicales. Finally, don't leave the city of Versailles aside because there are many things to see there like the King's Garden, stables, the Paume Game Hall or the antique district.

5. Auvers-sur-Oise

Who has never seen the name of this village under a canvas by Van Gogh? Now know that you can visit it in Île-de-France and more precisely in Val-d’Oise. The village was able to preserve certain testimonies of the passage of the famous painter, and others also because he was taken by artists.

To discover them while strolling, the best option is to follow the path of the painters arranged by the tourist office. If you have time, the show course on the theme of impressionists at the Château d’Auvers is also worth a visit.

6. Roche-Guyon and Vexin

By its geology and perched castle, the village of La Roche-Guyon is certainly one of the most original to visit in Île-de-France. The village is bordered by the Seine buckles and limestone cliffs in which troglodyte dwellings were dug.

The city center has the charm of the Normandy , very close, with its old halls and wood-paned facades. The castle is just as fascinating, with its volley of steps that climb to the cliff and connect the logis body to the old dungeon. Take advantage of this getaway to explore the Regional Natural Park of Vexin which has an important historical heritage and beautiful bucolic landscapes.

7. Provins

It is the medieval city par excellence, that which has escaped all the destruction and modern amenities. It’s worth being classified at Unesco, by the way. The visitu·rs·ses know that since the beautiful days, the alleys are often frequented by the crowds.

But so bad, we must not make the impasse on this one-day escapade. Every alley, home and place is a enchantment. And what about the impressive gates of Jouy, Caesar Tower and tithes barn? In addition, the city organizes many historical shows, which will entertain everyone. To shorten, plan a charged battery and an empty memory card for your camera.

8. Vaux-Le-Vicomte

It is one of the most beautiful castles to visit in Île de France, especially when you know that it is thanks to him that Versailles exists. However, one can also say that it is because of him that his owner Nicolas Fouquet ended up in prison.

In fact, the latter organized a superb party where Louis XIV was invited. But the king was jealous when he saw the splendour of the building for which the greatest artists of the time worked. In your turn now to let you marvel at the place and the French gardens of Le Nôtre, of course.

If you want it to be even more sublime, visit the castle during candlelit evenings.

9. Disneyland Paris

Fall back in childhood doesn’t hurt and Disney Park is the most appropriate place to visit in Île-de-France for that. And it must be said that it works, magic is still there despite the crowd and queues. Walt Disney Studios Park, built more recently, is centered on the backstage of the cinema.

Follow the cries from the elevator of the Tour de la terreur and you will find the entrance. Don’t miss going to stroll in the Ratatouille district and take you for Nemo in the Crush Coaster. As far as the Disneyland part is concerned, it is no longer present. Let him or her who has never taken a photo in front of the castle raise his hand!

10. Fontainebleau

Back in history with this gigantic castle that has seen the kings scroll from François I to Napoleon III. There are a lot of castles to see in Île-de-France but this one is special with 1500 rooms all the same. All are not open but the free visit allows to admire the different architectural styles that have contributed to the building’s beautification.

You can also see the different apartments, from those of the Renaissance to those of Napoleon I and Marie-Antoinette. To finish the day, stop in the village of Barbizon.

11. From Grez to Moret-sur-Loing

Guaranteed with this region to visit in Île-de-France. Located towards Nemours, this part of the river remains preserved and wild in places. It is the ideal place to spend an afternoon sailing on its quiet waters aboard a canoe.

Once you get back to the shores, take the time to make a mini road trip to discover the charming villages that border the Loing. Among the most beautiful are Grez-sur-Loing with its medieval vestiges and beautiful beaches to swim. There is also Moret, just as bucolic, who was very popular with impressionists.

How to get to Île-de-France?

By plane

There is nothing easier than to reach Île-de-France by the airs. There are two international airports, Roissy and Orly, which serve several times a day both French regions and major cities abroad. To find your happiness, take a look at a comparison of flights like Skyscanner .

By car

Visiting Île-de-France by car is a children’s game. Indeed, the area is served by all major highways: A1, A6, A4, A10, A20.

By train

With 6 stations all served by TGV only in Paris intra-muros, you should have no trouble finding the right route. In addition, the Transilian network to the suburbs is quite dense.

Where to stay in Île-de-France?

There is everything and for all tastes in Île-de-France. The area of Paris and its close suburbs is particularly provided in hotels, some of luxury, and for rental of type apartments Airbnb .

The countryside around the region is, in turn, the realm of guest houses and charming cottages, as well as campsites. Meet on one Compare hotels to find what's best for you.

Now you know the most beautiful places to visit in Île-de-France! And you have understood it, the territory of France is also tourist!