Things To Do
in Gentilly

Gentilly is a charming suburb located just southeast of Paris, France, known for its quaint streets and vibrant community. It offers a perfect blend of urban convenience and suburban tranquility, making it an ideal base for exploring the capital. The town is characterized by its historical architecture, local parks, and proximity to cultural attractions.

Gentilly’s friendly atmosphere and accessibility to public transportation make it a welcoming destination for visitors.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Gentilly
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc du Petit Gentilly for a leisurely stroll and enjoy the morning serenity. Grab a coffee and a pastry from a local boulangerie.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market at Place de l'Église where you can immerse yourself in the community vibe. Explore the small shops and boutiques around the area.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional French bistro, followed by a leisurely walk to see the town illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nearby Paris
morning
:

Take the RER train into Paris and visit iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. Stop for brunch in the Latin Quarter.

afternoon
:

Explore the charming streets of Montmartre and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Spend some time in the local art shops.

evening
:

Return to Gentilly for dinner at a cozy restaurant and enjoy a local wine before relaxing at a café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$3
🥐Croissant$1.50
🍽️Dinner at a restaurant$25
🏨Hotel per night$100
🚆Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris with easy access to the city.
  • Quaint and peaceful atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle.
  • Rich in local culture and community events.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Paris.
  • Can be less tourist-friendly in terms of English-speaking services.
  • Some areas may feel too quiet for those seeking vibrant city life.
  • "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 Gentilly

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc du Petit Gentilly

This park features beautiful greenery, walking paths, and a pond, perfect for capturing serene nature shots.

Église de Gentilly

The local church is an architectural gem; its facade and surrounding area provide a charming backdrop for photos.

Place de l'Église

A lively square often filled with local activities, ideal for capturing the essence of daily life in Gentilly.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gentilly

Gentilly offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects its proximity to Paris while maintaining its unique local flavors.

Gentilly 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!

Ratatouille

A vegetable medley that highlights the flavors of the Mediterranean, often served as a side or main dish.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Gentilly

A lively market held weekly where you can find fresh produce, cheese, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gentilly experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December-February) can be cold and damp, with temperatures averaging around 3°C (37°F). Spring (March-May) brings mild weather and blooming flowers, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Summers (June-August) are warm, averaging 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), perfect for outdoor activities. Autumn (September-November) is crisp, with temperatures gradually dropping from 20°C to 10°C (68°F to 50°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet with 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants; it shows respect and politeness.

Table Manners

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

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially when dining out; Parisians value style and presentation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gentilly is generally a safe suburb, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Local police are friendly and helpful, and emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Gentilly

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) if service is not included in your bill, especially in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

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 photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract more visitors, with many events and festivals taking place; however, it can be crowded.

Autumn

Enjoy the stunning fall foliage in parks, along with cooler temperatures perfect for exploring the town.

Winter

Winters can be cold with occasional snow, but the holiday decorations bring a magical charm to the area.

Nightlife Guide

Gentilly at Night

Gentilly's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to Paris, but it offers cozy bars and cafes where locals gather. You can find small venues with live music and occasional events. The proximity to the capital allows for easy access to Parisian nightlife as well, ranging from clubs to late-night eateries.

Hiking in Gentilly

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bois de Vincennes

A large park with numerous trails, perfect for hiking, cycling, and enjoying nature.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Known for its steep hills and scenic views, this park offers hiking trails and beautiful landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Gentilly by plane.

Paris Orly Airport

Located about 10 km from Gentilly, Orly is the second largest airport serving Paris and offers numerous international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gentilly is quite walkable, with most amenities, parks, and local attractions within a short distance. The town's layout encourages walking, and sidewalks are generally well-maintained. Public transportation options, including trains and buses, further enhance accessibility for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Gentilly is home to many young families who appreciate the suburban environment and local parks.

Artists and Students

The proximity to Paris attracts artists and students, contributing to a vibrant cultural scene.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a beloved sport in the region, with local teams and clubs encouraging community involvement.

Cycling

Cycling is popular both as a sport and a means of transportation, with many dedicated bike paths in and around Gentilly.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gentilly is generally manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation is efficient, with RER trains and buses connecting to Paris, making it easy to avoid driving in congested areas. Biking is also a popular alternative for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gentilly.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Gentilly offer vegetarian dishes, and some can accommodate vegan diets upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Gentilly is good, with local clinics and pharmacies available for residents and visitors. The French healthcare system is highly regarded, providing quality medical services. For emergencies, hospitals in nearby Paris can be reached quickly.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide