Things To Do
in Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau, located southeast of Paris, is a historic town known for its magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, a former royal residence of French monarchs. The town is surrounded by the vast and picturesque Fontainebleau Forest, a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Fontainebleau is also renowned for its charming streets lined with cafés, boutiques, and art galleries, offering visitors a delightful mix of culture and relaxation.
With its rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant atmosphere, Fontainebleau is a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature lovers, and art enthusiasts alike.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $250
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike in the beautiful Forest of Fontainebleau. Discover scenic trails and stunning rock formations that make this area popular with nature enthusiasts.
After lunch, visit the charming village of Barbizon, known for its art history and picturesque streets. Explore quaint galleries and have a coffee at a local café.
Return to Fontainebleau for a leisurely dinner at a traditional French bistro. Enjoy the local cuisine while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the evening.
Spend the morning touring the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Marvel at its impressive architecture and rich history as you wander through the opulent rooms.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the castle gardens, surrounded by beautiful landscaping. Then, visit the nearby Napoleon Museum to learn more about the famed emperor's connection to the château.
Relax at a local wine bar, sampling exquisite French wines. Engage in conversation with locals and enjoy the warm ambiance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including the famous Château de Fontainebleau.
- Beautiful natural surroundings with parks and forests ideal for outdoor activities.
- Close proximity to Paris, making it easily accessible for day trips.
- Charming town atmosphere with a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Vibrant art scene with galleries and artistic events throughout the year.
- Cost of living can be high due to its proximity to Paris.
- Tourist crowds, especially during peak seasons, may detract from local charm.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities and infrastructure compared to urban centers.
- Weather can be variable, with cold winters and occasional rainfall.
Best Activities in Fontainebleau
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Fontainebleau is famous for its bouldering opportunities. With its sandstone rocks, climbers of all levels can find routes to suit their skills ranging from beginner to advanced.
The Fontainebleau Forest offers numerous trails with varying lengths and difficulties, perfect for both casual walkers and serious hikers. Enjoy scenic views and the diverse flora and fauna of the area.
Explore the beautiful landscapes of the Fontainebleau Forest on a bike. There are designated cycling paths suitable for all skill levels, allowing for a great way to see the natural beauty of the region.
Discover the enchanting trails of Fontainebleau on horseback. Guided tours are available for different skill levels, making it a unique way to experience the forest.
Pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day outdoors in one of the many designated picnic areas within Fontainebleau Forest, surrounded by nature.
With its stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and historical sites, Fontainebleau offers excellent opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture beautiful images.
Places to Visit in Fontainebleau
Visit one of these nice places.
The grounds of this historic royal château offer stunning views and photo opportunities of the impressive architecture and surrounding gardens.
Explore the vast forest with its unique rock formations, picturesque ponds, and diverse landscapes, providing numerous beautiful settings for photography and breathtaking views.
Located in the heart of Fontainebleau, this ornate fountain offers a beautiful backdrop for photos and a charming view of the surrounding area.
Food in Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Thinly sliced potatoes deep-fried to create a puffed and crispy texture. A must-try at La Table de Montebello.
Must-Try!
A creamy and flavorful variety of Brie cheese that is a local specialty. Available at Fromagerie Beillevaire.
A luscious pastry filled with cream, a local favorite at Patisserie Frederic Cassel.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and local specialties. Perfect for sampling local flavors and finding unique ingredients.
Savor sweet and savory crepes from this charming street food stand, located near the Château de Fontainebleau.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Fontainebleau, it is customary to greet people with a polite 'Bonjour' during the day and 'Bonsoir' in the evening. Acknowledging individuals with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek (usually two) among acquaintances shows respect and friendliness.
When dining in Fontainebleau, it is important to keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows). Wait for the host to invite you to begin eating and remember to say 'Bon appétit' before starting the meal. Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory, as service is typically included in the bill.
Fontainebleau residents tend to dress smartly and stylishly. Casual wear is acceptable, but it is advisable to avoid overly casual attire in more formal settings. Showing an effort in personal presentation is a sign of respect in this culturally rich environment.
Safety
Tipping in Fontainebleau
Ensure a smooth experience
In Fontainebleau, as in much of France, tipping is not obligatory as service charges are usually included in the bill. However, it is common to leave small change or round up the bill as a gesture of appreciation for good service, particularly in restaurants and cafes.
Payment in Fontainebleau can be made using cash or credit/debit cards. While many establishments, including restaurants and shops, accept card payments, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors or markets. Additionally, contactless payment methods are increasingly popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a wonderful time to visit Fontainebleau, France. The weather is mild, and the famous gardens of the Château de Fontainebleau are in full bloom, offering a beautiful and colorful sight for visitors.
Summer is another great time to visit Fontainebleau. The warm weather is perfect for exploring the outdoor attractions, such as the Fontainebleau Forest, and enjoying outdoor activities like hiking and rock climbing.
Autumn brings a stunning display of fall foliage to Fontainebleau. The forest and surrounding countryside are transformed into a breathtaking sea of red, orange, and yellow, making it a great time for nature lovers to visit.
Winter in Fontainebleau can be quite cold, but it's also a magical time to visit. The Château de Fontainebleau is beautifully decorated for the holidays, and the crisp winter air adds a special charm to the town.
Fontainebleau at Night
Hiking in Fontainebleau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning and expansive forest known for its scenic walking trails, bouldering opportunities, and beautiful rock formations. It's a popular destination for hikers and climbers alike.
A picturesque area within Fontainebleau Forest featuring impressive rock formations and deep gorges, perfect for hiking and exploring nature.
A tranquil pond surrounded by lush trees and a variety of trails, ideal for a peaceful hike in a beautiful setting.
While primarily a historical site, the grounds of the Château provide lovely walking paths and are set within beautiful gardens that can be enjoyed by hikers.
A renowned rock climbing and bouldering spot featuring trails that offer both hiking and climbing routes with amazing views.
Aiports
How to reach Fontainebleau by plane.
The largest international airport in France, located approximately 55 kilometers northeast of Fontainebleau, serving as a major hub for international travel.
Located about 40 kilometers southwest of Fontainebleau, Orly Airport is the second largest airport in the Paris area, primarily serving domestic and European flights.
Located approximately 70 kilometers north of Fontainebleau, Beauvais-Tillé is a smaller airport that caters mainly to low-cost airlines and European destinations.
About 140 kilometers east of Fontainebleau, Châlons Vatry is a lesser-known airport that serves mainly budget airlines and seasonal flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group comprising citizens and residents of France.
Individuals from various European countries living in Fontainebleau, often for work or study.
Individuals from North African countries, primarily Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia.
Individuals from countries located in Sub-Saharan Africa, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the town.
Individuals from various Asian countries, including China and India, often in professional fields.
Residents from Latin American countries, adding to the cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Fontainebleau is famous for its bouldering spots, attracting climbers from around the world to its unique sandstone boulders.
The extensive forest areas around Fontainebleau make it a popular destination for runners, offering numerous trails of varying lengths.
Cycling is popular in the region, with various paths and trails suitable for both leisure cyclists and mountain bikers.
The forests and scenic trails of Fontainebleau are ideal for equestrian activities, attracting horse riders and enthusiasts.
Tennis is a popular sport in Fontainebleau, with several clubs and facilities available for locals and visitors alike.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Fontainebleau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Fontainebleau is accommodating with many restaurants offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. Le Coquelicot and Le Denouveau Monde are highly recommended for their diverse and creative vegetarian options.
For gluten-free dining, Le 9 offers a dedicated menu with a range of delicious gluten-free dishes, including desserts.