Things To Do
in Créteil

Créteil is a picturesque suburb located just east of Paris, known for its beautiful lakes and green spaces. It serves as a vibrant residential area while also offering cultural attractions, shopping centers, and parks. The town is well-connected to central Paris, making it a convenient base for visitors.

With its blend of modern amenities and natural beauty, Créteil provides a unique experience away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Créteil
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc de la Brèche, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside. Grab a breakfast pastry from a local boulangerie.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the Créteil Soleil shopping mall to explore its shops and entertainment options. Visit the nearby Maison des Arts to appreciate local art exhibitions.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in French cuisine, followed by a peaceful evening walk by the lake.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring the Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Église Saint-Christophe, a stunning church with unique architecture. Take a moment to appreciate its beautiful stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, where you can sample fresh produce and regional specialties. Spend the afternoon enjoying the natural beauty of the Parc Interdépartemental des Sports.

evening
:

Dine at a cozy café in the town center before experiencing the local nightlife at a bar or music venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20-$35
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$5-$8
🍎Grocery item (e.g., apple)$0.50
🚍Public transportation ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces for relaxation.
  • Close proximity to Paris for easy access to cultural attractions.
  • A friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Paris.
  • Some areas may lack tourist-specific amenities.
  • Public transportation can be crowded during peak hours.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Créteil

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Brèche

A scenic park with beautiful lakes, perfect for capturing nature and serene landscapes.

Église Saint-Christophe

This church's stunning architecture and stained glass windows provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Créteil Soleil

The modern shopping center offers interesting architectural shots and dynamic urban scenes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Créteil

Créteil offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional French dishes and multicultural influences. Visitors can explore local markets and street food vendors for authentic flavors.

Créteil Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

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

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a favorite dessert in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Créteil

A bustling market offering fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies, perfect for sampling regional flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Créteil experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures in summer can reach up to 25°C (77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella or raincoat, especially in the spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

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

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) while dining, and wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat.

Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance during conversations, as personal space is valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Créteil is generally a safe area, with low crime rates compared to larger urban centers. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Keeping valuables secure and avoiding isolated areas after dark is advisable.

Tipping in Créteil

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants, usually around 5-10% of the bill, but it is not mandatory.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a delightful time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather encourages picnics by the lake and outdoor festivals.

Autumn

The fall foliage creates a picturesque backdrop, ideal for photography.

Winter

Cooler temperatures may lead to fewer outdoor activities, but festive decorations bring a charming atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Créteil at Night

Créteil's nightlife is vibrant yet relaxed, featuring a variety of bars, music venues, and cafes. Many locals enjoy gathering in casual settings to unwind after work, with live music and cultural events often taking place. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy for visitors to socialize with locals.

Hiking in Créteil

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Vignes

A scenic hiking trail that winds through vineyards and offers beautiful views of the countryside.

Forêt de Vincennes

A large forest area nearby with multiple trails, perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Airports

How to reach Créteil by plane.

Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Créteil, this major international airport provides connections to numerous global destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Créteil is a walkable suburb with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. Many local attractions, parks, and shops are easily accessible on foot. However, some parts may require a short walk to reach public transport connections, making it essential to plan accordingly.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Créteil, attracted by its parks and amenities.

Students

With several educational institutions nearby, a significant student population contributes to the town's vibrant atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is widely popular in Créteil, with many local teams and community leagues.

Basketball

Basketball has a strong following, with local clubs and recreational opportunities available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Créteil can be moderate, especially during rush hours when commuting to and from Paris. Public transportation, including buses and metro lines, is reliable and widely used, providing an efficient way to navigate the area and reach central Paris.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Créteil.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals may be available, but communication with staff is essential to ensure safety.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Créteil are of high quality, with several hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. The Centre Hospitalier Intercommunal de Créteil offers comprehensive medical services. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers treatment in France.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide