Things To Do
in Aubervilliers

Aubervilliers is a dynamic suburb just northeast of central Paris, known for its multicultural mix and evolving urban landscape. The town blends a gritty industrial heritage with modern arts spaces, markets, and street-side eateries. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the wider Île-de-France, with quick access to the capital by public transit.

Expect a lively local scene shaped by a broad range of communities, with abundant cafés, markets, and outdoor spaces.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market at the Place de la République, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh pastries and local cheeses. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets, admiring the architecture that reflects Aubervilliers' rich history. Don’t forget to snap some pictures of the iconic buildings and street art that adorn the neighborhood.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a cozy café, where you can savor traditional French cuisine while watching the world go by. Post-lunch, visit the La Maladrerie, a historic site that offers a glimpse into the region's past with its medieval architecture and educational exhibits. Engage with local guides to learn fascinating stories about the site and its significance.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to the Parc de la Villette, which is just a short distance away. Enjoy a relaxing walk through the park, taking in the unique sculptures and the beautiful landscape. End your evening with a delightful dinner at a nearby restaurant, sampling seasonal dishes paired with fine French wine.

day 2
Art and Culture Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, where you can explore interactive exhibits that celebrate science and technology. The museum opens early, allowing you to appreciate the innovative displays without the crowds. Don’t miss the planetarium for an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos.

afternoon
:

After a morning of learning, have lunch at a nearby bistro, savoring local specialties and perhaps a glass of wine. In the afternoon, visit the Le Centquatre-Paris, a cultural center that hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and performances. Take your time to explore the various installations and enjoy the creative ambiance.

evening
:

As evening approaches, attend a live performance at the cultural center, which could range from theater to music. Engage with fellow attendees to share your thoughts on the show and soak in the vibrant energy of the local arts scene. Finish off the night with a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets of Aubervilliers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee or tea at café$3-6
🧺Groceries for a day$10-20
🚆One-way local transit ticket$2-3
🏨Budget hotel/night$60-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Excellent access to central Paris and the rest of Île-de-France by public transit
  • Rich multicultural food scene with affordable options
  • Authentic, less-touristy neighborhood character
  • Parks, canals, and outdoor spaces for easy day trips
  • Certain areas can feel gritty or industrial in parts of town
  • Some facilities and services may have longer wait times than central Paris
  • Public transport journeys can be crowded during peak hours
  • Varied range of nightlife options—larger city options are in Paris proper
  • "Bonjour" - Hello / Good day
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Où est la gare?" - Where is the train station?
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
  • "J'aimerais un café, s'il vous plaît" - I would like a coffee, please
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The check, please

Places to Visit in Aubervilliers

Visit one of these nice places.

Canal Saint-Denis waterfront

A calm waterway with seasonal activity, reflections, and pedestrian paths ideal for daytime and golden-hour photography.

Street-art and market alleyways in the town center

Vivid murals and colorful storefronts provide dynamic backdrops for urban photography.

Parc and green spaces by the Ourcq canal

Pockets of greenery along the canal offer shaded scenes and candid character shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aubervilliers

Aubervilliers reflects a rich, multicultural palate popular across the Île-de-France region, with strong North African and African influences alongside classic French bistro fare. Expect flavorful street bites, hearty dishes, and plenty of bakery options to fuel long days of exploring.

Aubervilliers Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Couscous with vegetables and lamb

A staple from the Maghreb-influenced cuisine found in many local eateries; often served with a savory broth and vegetables.

Must-Try!

Falafel and hummus plate

Common in casual eateries and street-food stalls; served with fresh pita and salads.

Jambon-beurre baguette

A simple, classic French sandwich that’s widely available at bakeries and cafés.

Crepes sucrées ou salées

Crepes are a popular quick bite, available with a range of fillings from sugar to ham and cheese.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché d'Aubervilliers

A bustling local market offering fresh produce, meats, cheeses, spices, and ready-to-eat options on certain days.

Ourcq Canal street-food stalls

Along the canal corridor you can find food trucks and small stands offering diverse dishes and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate climate with warm summers and cool winters, similar to Paris. Rain is possible year-round, so bring a light rain layer and plan for indoor alternatives during wetter days.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and politeness

Greet with a polite 'Bonjour, Madame/Monsieur' when entering shops; use 's'il vous plaît' and 'merci' regularly.

Dining etiquette

Keep hands visible on the table, eat at a moderate pace, and avoid rushing meals in seated venues; wait to be seated where appropriate.

Public behavior

Respect personal space, queues, and quiet conversations in residential areas; public smoking rules are enforced in many outdoor spaces.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stay aware of your surroundings in busy transit hubs and market areas, especially during peak times. Keep valuables secure, use well-lit streets at night, and rely on official taxis or ride-hailing services for late trips. In case of emergencies, dial local emergency numbers as you would in France.

Tipping in Aubervilliers

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In France, service compris (tips included) is common in many places; additional tipping for exceptional service is welcome but not obligatory, typically small amounts in cafes or 5-10% in nicer restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, with contactless payments common; cash is useful for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Expect warm to hot days with possible afternoon thunderstorms; carry water, sunscreen, and a light layer for evenings; markets and outdoor events are lively.

Autumn

Mild to cool temperatures with colorful foliage; great light for photography and strolls along the canal and parks.

Winter

Cool with a chance of rain; layers are essential; indoor cultural venues and cafés offer warm retreat options.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blossoming trees; ideal for outdoor exploration, markets, and sunset walks by the water.

Nightlife Guide

Aubervilliers at Night

Aubervilliers offers a modest yet diverse nightlife scene with casual bars, cafés, and music venues that reflect its multicultural community. Nearby Paris options are easily reachable by transit, enabling broader nightlife experiences while staying nearby. Expect relaxed, sociable venues where locals mingle, with varying hours and occasional late-night gatherings.

Hiking in Aubervilliers

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forêt de Bondy

A sizable forested area nearby offering longer and easier hiking paths, bike trails, and nature escapes from the city.

Forêt de Saint-Denis

Another green space close by with woodland trails and scenic routes for outdoor enthusiasts.

Parc de la Courneuve

Extensive parkland within reach featuring pathways, open spaces, and casual hiking opportunities.

Airports

How to reach Aubervilliers by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Major international hub located about 20–40 minutes by car or train from Aubervilliers; frequent express connections to central Paris.

Orly Airport (ORY)

Another major airport serving international and domestic flights; accessible by road and public transit from the Paris region.

Getting Around

Walkability

The core of Aubervilliers is reasonably walkable, with dense streets, markets, and restaurants within easy reach. For longer distances or scenic views, convenient transit connections to Paris and nearby suburbs are readily available, making it easy to combine foot exploration with efficient travel.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Multicultural communities

Aubervilliers is home to diverse communities including North African, Sub-Saharan African, and European residents, contributing to a vibrant culinary and cultural landscape.

Young families and students

An area with growing educational and youth-oriented facilities, reflecting a mix of residents and visitors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Widely played at parks and clubs across the region; local teams and recreational leagues are common.

Basketball

Popular in community centers and gyms; pick-up games and amateur leagues are available.

Running and cycling

Canal paths and park trails offer accessible routes for joggers and cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Île-de-France traffic can be heavy during weekday rush hours. Public transit (metro, tram, and RER) provides a reliable alternative to driving, though delays can occur at peak times or during construction. Plan journeys with extra time when traveling to Paris or major event venues.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aubervilliers.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many places offer vegetarian options, including vegetable-based couscous dishes, falafel plates, and salads; ask for meat-free arrangements or explore vegetarian menus.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in the Île-de-France region is highly accessible, with clinics, pharmacies, and hospitals in or near Aubervilliers and in nearby Paris. A Carte Vitale is typically used for reimbursements; travelers should have basic travel insurance. For major emergencies or specialized care, major Paris hospitals are within quick reach by public transit.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide