Things To Do
in Chelles

Chelles is a charming commune located in the Seine-et-Marne department of the Île-de-France region, just east of Paris. Known for its rich history and beautiful parks, Chelles offers a unique blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility. The town is characterized by its stunning architecture, including the iconic Saint-George Church, and is surrounded by lush greenery.

With easy access to Paris and other nearby attractions, Chelles serves as an excellent base for exploring the greater Île-de-France region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Chelles
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc de la Haute Ile, a beautiful park perfect for a morning stroll among nature.

afternoon
:

Head to the historic center to explore the Saint-George Church and enjoy lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with dinner at a traditional French restaurant, followed by a relaxing walk by the Grand Morin River.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Paris
morning
:

Take a morning train to Paris and visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre Museum.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch in a Parisian bistro and explore the charming streets of Montmartre.

evening
:

Return to Chelles for dinner at a cozy local brasserie and enjoy a nightcap at a nearby bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🍕Pizza$10-15
🚆Train Ticket to Paris$5-10
🛒Grocery Shopping$30-50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris for easy day trips.
  • Rich history and stunning architecture.
  • Quaint local markets and friendly atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Paris.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transport may be less frequent during off-peak hours.
  • "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 Chelles

Visit one of these nice places.

Saint-George Church

An architectural gem, the church features stunning stained glass windows and a beautiful facade, making it perfect for photography.

Parc de la Haute Ile

This park offers picturesque landscapes, including riverside views and lush greenery, ideal for nature photography.

Grand Morin River

Capture the serene beauty of the river, especially at sunset, where the colors reflect beautifully on the water.

Culinary Guide

Food in Chelles

Chelles offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional French cuisine with local specialties, making it a food lover's paradise.

Chelles Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised slowly in red wine, lardons, mushrooms, and garlic.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a must-try dessert when in Chelles.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Chelles Market

A bustling market held every Saturday morning, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Chelles experiences a temperate oceanic climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures averaging between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F). Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting, such as 'Bonjour,' is important when entering shops or restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal or to indicate it's time to start eating before you begin.

Respect for Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in conversation, as personal space is valued in French culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Chelles is generally a safe place for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped to handle most medical situations.

Tipping in Chelles

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants if service is not included, though rounding up the bill is also appreciated.

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

Enjoy mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Expect warm weather, perfect for picnics and outdoor festivals, though be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Witness beautiful fall foliage in parks and enjoy the harvest season with local markets displaying seasonal produce.

Winter

Cold temperatures prevail, but the holiday season brings festive markets and decorations, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Chelles at Night

Chelles has a laid-back nightlife scene with a selection of bars and bistros that offer a cozy atmosphere for a night out. The town's proximity to Paris also allows for easy access to more vibrant nightlife options, including clubs and live music venues. Local bars often feature live music and are frequented by both locals and visitors, providing a friendly, welcoming environment to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Chelles

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

La Forêt de Bondy

This nearby forest offers numerous trails for hiking enthusiasts, with shaded paths and diverse wildlife.

Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse

A bit further out, this natural park features beautiful landscapes and well-marked hiking trails, perfect for a day of exploration.

Airports

How to reach Chelles by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Located about 20 kilometers from Chelles, CDG is the largest airport in France, offering numerous international flights and connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Chelles is quite walkable, with many amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town's layout is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks that make it easy to navigate. Parks and public spaces are also easily accessible, encouraging visitors to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

There is a significant population of young families, attracted by the suburban lifestyle and proximity to Paris.

Students

Several educational institutions in the area contribute to a vibrant student demographic, adding to the town's youthful energy.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Chelles, with local clubs and community games being a common sight.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored sport in the region, with many residents enjoying leisurely rides along designated paths.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Chelles is generally moderate, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options, including trains and buses, provide convenient access to Paris and surrounding areas. The town is well-connected, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Chelles.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Gluten-Free Options

Many restaurants offer gluten-free dishes; it's advisable to inform the staff about any dietary restrictions.

Vegetarian Cuisine

Vegetarian options are available at most eateries, but it's best to check the menu in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Chelles is of a high standard, with several clinics and a hospital available for both residents and visitors. The healthcare system is well-equipped to handle emergencies, and many doctors speak English. Pharmacies are also widely available for minor health needs and medications.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide