Things To Do
in Cergy

Cergy is a vibrant suburb located just northwest of Paris, known for its modern architecture and scenic lakes. The town is part of the Val-d'Oise department and has a rich history dating back to Roman times. Cergy is also home to a large student population, thanks to its university and various educational institutions.

It offers a unique blend of urban life and green spaces, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Cergy
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Cergy-Pontoise University campus, where you can enjoy the modern architecture and green spaces. Then, head to the nearby Cergy Neuville Island for a leisurely walk along the waterfront.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the Cergy Art Center, which showcases contemporary art exhibitions. Spend the afternoon exploring the Cergy Village, with its charming boutiques and cafes.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll to the Cergy Marina to catch the sunset over the water.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Île de Loisirs de Cergy-Pontoise, a large leisure park offering various outdoor activities. Enjoy a bike ride or a peaceful walk around the park's beautiful lakes.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, explore the historic town of Pontoise, which is just a short distance away. Visit the impressive Saint-Maclou Cathedral and wander the picturesque streets.

evening
:

Conclude your trip with a delightful dinner at a restaurant in Pontoise, known for its exquisite French cuisine, before returning to Cergy.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$3-5
🍷Glass of wine$5-10
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel per night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris for easy day trips.
  • Rich cultural and natural attractions.
  • Vibrant student atmosphere with diverse dining options.
  • Limited nightlife compared to central Paris.
  • Public transport can be crowded during peak hours.
  • May feel less authentic compared to historic Paris.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Cergy

Visit one of these nice places.

Cergy-Pontoise Marina

A picturesque spot featuring beautiful views of the water, perfect for capturing sunsets.

The Esplanade

Offering stunning views of the modern architecture of Cergy and the surrounding green spaces.

Île de Loisirs

A recreational area with lakes and parks, providing ample opportunities for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cergy

Cergy offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional French cuisine and local specialties. Visitors can enjoy a range of dishes and beverages that reflect the region's rich gastronomic heritage.

Cergy Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Boeuf Bourguignon

A classic French beef stew braised in red wine, flavored with garlic, onions, and mushrooms.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

A delicious upside-down caramelized apple tart, best enjoyed warm with a dollop of cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cergy Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and seasonal specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cergy experiences a temperate oceanic climate. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures around 3°C (37°F). Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite 'Bonjour' (hello) is customary when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep hands on the table (but not elbows).

Respecting Personal Space

Maintain a reasonable distance when conversing, as personal space is valued in French culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cergy is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Cergy

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

In France, service is usually included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and bustling, with many outdoor festivals and events, perfect for enjoying the lakes.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, making it a perfect time for photography and scenic walks.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the festive atmosphere and occasional snow create a charming winter wonderland.

Nightlife Guide

Cergy at Night

Cergy's nightlife is vibrant, with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Popular spots include local pubs offering a cozy atmosphere for drinks, and clubs featuring a range of music from electronic to live bands. The nearby town of Pontoise also has a lively bar scene, making it easy to explore different nightlife options.

Hiking in Cergy

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Les Boucles de la Seine

A scenic hiking trail along the Seine River, offering beautiful views and diverse landscapes.

Parc de la Vallée de l'Oise

This park features a variety of trails that traverse through woodlands and alongside the Oise River, ideal for hiking and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Cergy by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Located approximately 40 km from Cergy, CDG is the main international airport serving Paris and offers numerous flights worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cergy is relatively walkable, especially around the town center and the waterfront areas. Sidewalks are available, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, some parts may require walking along busy roads.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Cergy has a significant student population due to its university, contributing to the vibrant local culture and economy.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Cergy, drawn by its proximity to Paris and affordable housing.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is very popular in the region, with local clubs and youth leagues thriving.

Rugby

Rugby has a strong following, with various clubs and events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cergy can be busy, particularly during rush hours as many commuters travel to and from Paris. Public transportation, including buses and RER trains, provides efficient alternatives for getting around, with regular services connecting to central Paris.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cergy.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Cergy offer vegetarian dishes, but it's always good to check the menu or ask staff for recommendations.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to confirm with the staff to ensure safe dining.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cergy is accessible, with several clinics and hospitals available. Emergency services are reliable, and pharmacies are common throughout the area. EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for coverage.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide