Things To Do
in Montargis

Montargis is a charming commune located in the Loiret department of France, often referred to as the 'Venice of the Gatinais' due to its picturesque canals and bridges. This town is rich in history, boasting medieval architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore its historical sites, including the stunning Château de Montargis and the beautiful Parc des Mées.

With its quaint streets, vibrant markets, and friendly locals, Montargis offers a delightful escape for travelers looking to experience authentic French life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Montargis
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Château de Montargis, where you can explore the grounds and learn about the history of this beautiful castle. Afterward, stroll along the picturesque canals and take in the serene views.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local café followed by a visit to the Musée Girodet, which showcases works by the famous artist Anne-Louis Girodet. Spend the afternoon wandering through the Jardin de la Vieille Ville, a lovely park perfect for relaxation.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at La Table de L'Ours, a cozy restaurant known for its traditional French cuisine. End your day with a leisurely walk along the canals, where you can enjoy the illuminated bridges.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local bakery, indulging in fresh pastries. Afterward, visit the Église Sainte-Madeleine, a stunning church known for its beautiful stained-glass windows.

afternoon
:

Take a guided bike tour around the surrounding countryside to appreciate the natural beauty of the region. Stop for a picnic lunch at an idyllic spot along the way.

evening
:

Return to Montargis for dinner at Le Bistrot de la Gare, where you can try local specialties. Cap off your evening with a visit to a nearby wine bar for a taste of regional wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-30
Coffee$2-4
🍞Baguette$1
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$70-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming canals and picturesque scenery
  • Rich history and cultural attractions
  • Delicious local cuisine and friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Some attractions may have limited opening hours
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I do not understand

Places to Visit in Montargis

Visit one of these nice places.

Canal de Montargis

The picturesque canals of Montargis provide stunning backdrops for photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Château de Montargis

The castle's impressive architecture and surrounding gardens create beautiful photo opportunities.

Place du Marché

A lively square filled with colorful market stalls and historic buildings, perfect for capturing the essence of Montargis.

Culinary Guide

Food in Montargis

Montargis offers a delightful culinary experience with a blend of traditional French dishes and local specialties that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Montargis Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Pâté de Pâques

A savory pie filled with meat and often enjoyed during festive occasions.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

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

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Montargis

A vibrant market held every Thursday and Saturday, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and regional delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Montargis experiences a temperate oceanic climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), and occasional snowfall. Summers are warm, averaging 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities. Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, with spring blooms and autumn foliage enhancing the region's charm.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite greeting is important; a simple 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants is expected.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to indicate where to sit and refrain from starting to eat until everyone is served.

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially in restaurants and cultural venues; casual wear is acceptable but avoid overly casual attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Montargis is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's advisable to have travel insurance for emergencies and to know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Montargis

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; leaving a few coins or rounding up the bill is common practice.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summers are warm and vibrant, with various local festivals and events. It's perfect for enjoying outdoor dining and water activities.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, providing a picturesque backdrop for walks around the town.

Winter

Winters can be cold, but the festive decorations and seasonal markets make Montargis enchanting during this time.

Nightlife Guide

Montargis at Night

Montargis has a relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of bars and cafés that cater to different tastes. While larger clubs are scarce, locals enjoy gathering in wine bars and small pubs to socialize. Live music can often be found in certain venues, especially during weekends, providing a cozy atmosphere for enjoying drinks and conversation.

Hiking in Montargis

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Moulins

This scenic trail takes you along the banks of the Loing River, with beautiful views of the surrounding nature and historic mills.

Forêt de Montargis Trails

Explore various trails within the Forest of Montargis, suitable for all skill levels and offering a chance to experience the local flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Montargis by plane.

Orléans – Saint-Denis Airport (ORE)

Located approximately 60 km from Montargis, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest major airport, providing access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Montargis is highly walkable, with a compact town center that makes it easy for visitors to explore on foot. The flat terrain and well-maintained sidewalks facilitate easy navigation, and many attractions are within a short walking distance from each other. The scenic canals and parks also provide pleasant walking routes for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families reside in Montargis, taking advantage of the town's parks and community activities.

Retirees

A significant number of retirees are drawn to Montargis for its peaceful surroundings and rich cultural offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely popular in Montargis, with local clubs engaging in competitions and drawing community support.

Cycling

With numerous bike paths and scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity among locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Montargis is generally light, making it easy to navigate the town by car or bicycle. Public transportation options include buses that connect different parts of the town and surrounding areas, although schedules can be less frequent on weekends. The town's layout is conducive to walking, reducing the reliance on vehicular transport.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Montargis.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for modifications to standard meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available at some establishments; however, it's best to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Montargis has access to several healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. The main hospital, Centre Hospitalier de Montargis, offers a range of medical services. Pharmacies are also widely available for prescription medications and over-the-counter needs. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 15 for medical assistance.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide