Things To Do
in Fontenay-sous-Bois

Fontenay-sous-Bois is a charming suburb located to the east of Paris, known for its beautiful parks and historical architecture. The town offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life, characterized by tree-lined streets and a variety of cultural attractions. It is well-connected to Paris via public transport, making it an ideal base for exploring the French capital.

The local community is vibrant, with a mix of traditional and modern influences shaping its identity.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Fontenay-sous-Bois
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit Parc des Beaumonts for a refreshing stroll amid nature.

afternoon
:

Explore the Centre Culturel de Fontenay-sous-Bois, which often hosts art exhibitions and cultural events, followed by lunch at a nearby brasserie.

evening
:

Conclude your day with dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk around the town center to admire the illuminated architecture.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Paris
morning
:

Take the RER train to Paris and visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch in the Latin Quarter, then explore the beautiful Jardin du Luxembourg.

evening
:

Return to Fontenay-sous-Bois and dine at a cozy restaurant, followed by a nightcap at a local bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍕Pizza Slice$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🌭Street Food Snack$4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Paris with easy access to public transportation.
  • A peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
  • Rich cultural heritage with various local events.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to central Paris.
  • Less variety in dining compared to larger cities.
  • Can be less vibrant during weekdays.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Fontenay-sous-Bois

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc des Beaumonts

A beautiful park featuring lush greenery and scenic walking paths, perfect for nature photography.

Fontenay-sous-Bois Town Hall

An elegant building with impressive architecture, offering great photo opportunities.

Place de la République

A lively square surrounded by cafés and shops, ideal for capturing the essence of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Fontenay-sous-Bois

Fontenay-sous-Bois offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing both traditional French cuisine and international flavors.

Fontenay-sous-Bois Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken, braised slowly with wine, mushrooms, and onions.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a true French dessert favorite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Fontenay Market

A vibrant market held every Saturday, offering fresh produce, cheese, and local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Fontenay-sous-Bois is characterized by four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures averaging around 3°C (37°F). Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and blooming flowers, while summers (June to August) can be warm, averaging 25°C (77°F). Autumn (September to November) sees cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it a picturesque time to visit.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

It is customary to greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants.

Politeness

Always use 's'il vous plaît' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) when interacting with locals.

Dining Etiquette

Keep your hands on the table during meals, but do not place elbows on the table.

Safety Guide

Safety

Fontenay-sous-Bois is generally a safe area, but like any urban environment, it's advisable to be vigilant, especially at night. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas when walking after dark. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Fontenay-sous-Bois

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

In restaurants, a service charge is usually included, but leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer can be warm, with locals enjoying picnics in parks and outdoor events.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, perfect for photography and walks.

Winter

Winter can be chilly, but the festive decorations and holiday markets add charm to the town.

Nightlife Guide

Fontenay-sous-Bois at Night

Fontenay-sous-Bois has a lively yet relaxed nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and cafés offering a cozy atmosphere. While it may not be as bustling as central Paris, locals enjoy gathering in social spots for drinks and conversation. Several establishments host live music and themed nights, providing entertainment for a fun evening out.

Hiking in Fontenay-sous-Bois

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Forêt de Vincennes

A large urban forest with numerous trails, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.

La Coulée Verte

A scenic elevated park built on an old railway line, offering beautiful views and walking paths.

Airports

How to reach Fontenay-sous-Bois by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Fontenay-sous-Bois, this major international airport offers flights to destinations worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Fontenay-sous-Bois is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The town center is compact, allowing visitors to easily explore shops, cafes, and parks on foot. The presence of parks and green spaces adds to the pleasant walking experience, encouraging leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Fontenay-sous-Bois, commuting to Paris for work.

Families

The town is home to many families attracted by its parks, schools, and community atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in the region, with local clubs and community games attracting enthusiastic fans.

Cycling

Cycling is popular, with scenic routes available for both leisure and competitive cycling.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Fontenay-sous-Bois is generally manageable, with local roads connecting to major highways. Public transportation options include buses and the RER train, which provide efficient access to Paris. During peak hours, traffic can become congested, so it's advisable to use public transport when possible.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Fontenay-sous-Bois.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; be sure to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

Some local eateries provide gluten-free options, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Fontenay-sous-Bois is excellent, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. The town is served by the public healthcare system, which offers high-quality medical services. Pharmacies are also readily available for minor health concerns and prescriptions.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide