Things To Do
in Gennevilliers

Gennevilliers is a charming suburb located just north of Paris, France, known for its diverse community and vibrant atmosphere. It features a blend of modern architecture and traditional French culture, making it an intriguing place to explore. The town is well-connected to the capital, offering easy access to Parisian attractions while maintaining its unique local character.

Gennevilliers is also home to beautiful parks and a lively waterfront along the Seine River.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Gennevilliers
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Parc des Chanteraines, enjoying the lush greenery and beautiful flower gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market at Marché de Gennevilliers for fresh produce and artisanal goods, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional French restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the Seine River to soak in the sunset views.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nearby Paris
morning
:

Catch a train to central Paris and start your day with a visit to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a bistro in Montmartre and explore the artistic streets of the area.

evening
:

Return to Gennevilliers for dinner and experience local nightlife at a nearby bar or pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15-25
Coffee$2-4
🥖Baguette$1-2
🚇Metro Ticket$2
🏨Hotel per Night$80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris with easy access to the city.
  • Variety of parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Diverse cultural experiences and community.
  • Less nightlife compared to central Paris.
  • Limited tourist infrastructure.
  • Language barrier for non-French speakers.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est le métro?" - Where is the metro?
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Gennevilliers

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc des Chanteraines

This park features beautiful landscaping, ponds, and bridges that provide perfect backdrops for photos.

Seine River Walkway

Capture stunning sunset views along the Seine, with the reflections of the city lights in the water.

Rue de la République

A bustling street filled with local shops, street art, and charming architecture, great for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gennevilliers

Gennevilliers offers a delightful culinary experience with its mix of traditional French cuisine and multicultural influences.

Gennevilliers Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish consisting of chicken braised with wine, lardons, mushrooms, and garlic.

Must-Try!

Ratatouille

A vegetable dish made from a variety of summer vegetables, stewed together with herbs and olive oil.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Gennevilliers

A vibrant local market offering fresh produce, cheeses, and baked goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gennevilliers experiences a temperate oceanic climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures hover around 25°C (77°F) while winters can drop to 0°C (32°F). Rainfall is fairly distributed throughout the year, making an umbrella handy on most days. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and colorful landscapes.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with a 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants, and use 'Merci' to show appreciation.

Dining Etiquette

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

Dress Code

Dress smartly when going out, as the French value style and appearance in public settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gennevilliers is generally safe for visitors, but common precautions should be taken. Avoid displaying valuable items and be cautious in crowded areas to prevent pickpocketing. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions, especially at night, and to use well-lit streets.

Tipping in Gennevilliers

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

While service is included in restaurant bills, leaving a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit 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

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and picnics in the park.

Summer

Warm temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), ideal for enjoying outdoor festivals and events.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create a picturesque setting for walks and photography.

Winter

Chilly temperatures often below 5°C (41°F) with occasional snow, making it a cozy time to enjoy local cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Gennevilliers at Night

Gennevilliers has a laid-back nightlife scene with a mix of local bars and pubs. While it may not be as vibrant as central Paris, you'll find cozy spots to enjoy a drink, live music venues, and occasional cultural events. The atmosphere is friendly, with many locals gathering after work or on weekends to unwind.

Hiking in Gennevilliers

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parc de la Courneuve

A beautiful park offering various trails for walking and hiking, surrounded by nature and ideal for family outings.

Montmartre

While not traditionally a hiking trail, the hilly area of Montmartre offers scenic walks with stunning views of Paris and quaint streets to explore.

Airports

How to reach Gennevilliers by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

The main international airport serving Paris, located approximately 30 km from Gennevilliers, offering a wide range of flights and services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gennevilliers is relatively walkable, with many amenities within walking distance. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets, especially around parks and shopping areas. However, some parts may require using public transportation to access further attractions or central Paris.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing community of young professionals lives in Gennevilliers, drawn by the proximity to Paris and affordable living.

Immigrant Communities

Gennevilliers is home to a diverse mix of immigrant communities, contributing to the cultural richness and culinary diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is highly popular in the area, with local clubs representing the community and engaging in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with various community teams and recreational leagues offering opportunities for participation.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gennevilliers can be congested during peak hours, particularly near public transport hubs. The public transportation network, including buses and the metro, is efficient and provides easy access to Paris and surrounding areas. Cycling is also a popular option for getting around, with bike lanes available in certain areas.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gennevilliers.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Gennevilliers offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu or ask staff for options.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options may be limited, so make sure to inquire about specific dishes or consider bringing snacks.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Gennevilliers is accessible with several clinics and hospitals in the area. The local health system provides quality care; emergency services can be reached by dialing 15. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers healthcare costs.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide