Things To Do
in Montataire

Montataire is a charming commune in the Oise department of northern France, known for its industrial heritage and beautiful green spaces. It is located near the larger city of Creil, providing easy access to urban amenities while retaining a quaint, village-like atmosphere. The town features a mix of historical architecture and modern developments, making it an interesting place to explore.

With its friendly locals and rich culture, Montataire offers a unique experience for visitors seeking a less touristy destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Montataire
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Parc des Sports, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the natural beauty. Grab a coffee and a pastry from a local bakery.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby historical sites such as the Église Saint-Jean and the Maison du Patrimoine to learn about the town's history.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and enjoy traditional French cuisine, followed by a stroll through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Discover Surroundings
morning
:

Take a short trip to the nearby town of Creil and visit the local market for fresh produce and goods.

afternoon
:

Explore the natural landscapes by visiting the Parc Naturel Régional Oise - Pays de France for hiking or biking.

evening
:

Return to Montataire and enjoy a quiet evening at a café, tasting local wine and cheese.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🛒Grocery Shopping (weekly)$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming atmosphere with friendly locals.
  • Rich local culture and history.
  • Access to beautiful natural landscapes.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-French speakers.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • "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 Montataire

Visit one of these nice places.

Église Saint-Jean

This beautiful church showcases stunning architecture and provides a picturesque backdrop for photos.

Parc des Sports

A lovely park with green spaces, perfect for capturing nature shots and family moments.

Montataire Town Hall

The town hall features classical French architecture, ideal for capturing the essence of local governance.

Culinary Guide

Food in Montataire

Montataire offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Northern France with its local dishes and vibrant food scene.

Montataire Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish featuring chicken braised with wine, mushrooms, and lardons, often served with crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Tarte Picarde

A savory pie made with a creamy filling of ham, cream, and mushrooms, a regional specialty of Picardy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Creil Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products, held every Saturday.

Street Crêpes

Look for street vendors offering delicious crêpes filled with sweet or savory ingredients, perfect for a quick snack.

Climate Guide

Weather

Montataire experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters can be cold, averaging between 0°C and 5°C, while summers are mild to warm, ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Spring and autumn bring moderate temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Always greet with a polite 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants to show respect.

Dining Etiquette

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

Politeness

Being polite and using 's'il vous plaît' (please) and 'merci' (thank you) is highly valued in French culture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Montataire is generally a safe town for visitors, but it's always advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur, so keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's recommended to familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Montataire

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in France, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand is helpful for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a lovely time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather allows for outdoor dining and festivals, although it can get crowded during peak tourist season.

Autumn

Enjoy the beautiful fall colors in parks and surrounding areas, with cooler temperatures perfect for hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures are expected, but the festive season brings charm with holiday decorations and markets.

Nightlife Guide

Montataire at Night

Montataire has a laid-back nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafes offering live music and a relaxed atmosphere. The nearby city of Creil has more vibrant nightlife options, including clubs and late-night venues, catering to a younger crowd. Enjoying a glass of local wine or beer at a cozy bistro is a popular choice among locals.

Hiking in Montataire

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Moulins

A scenic trail that takes you along the river and through lush forests, perfect for leisurely hikes.

Chemin de la Vallée

This trail offers beautiful views of the Oise Valley and is suitable for both hiking and cycling, with various entry points.

Airports

How to reach Montataire by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Located about 50 km from Montataire, this is the largest airport in France, offering international and domestic flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Montataire is quite walkable, with many amenities and attractions located within a short distance from each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones in the town center make for a pleasant walking experience. However, some areas may require a car or public transport to access, especially for outdoor activities outside the town.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Montataire has a growing population of young families who appreciate the community-oriented environment and local schools.

Retirees

The town is also home to many retirees, who enjoy the peaceful surroundings and accessibility to local amenities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Montataire, with local teams competing in regional leagues and a strong community following.

Cycling

Cycling is enjoyed by many locals, with various trails and routes available for both recreational and competitive cyclists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic conditions in Montataire are generally manageable, though peak hours can see increased congestion, especially near the town center and major roads. Public transportation options include buses that connect Montataire to surrounding areas, although the frequency may vary throughout the day. It's advisable to check local schedules for the best travel times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Montataire.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Montataire offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check when ordering.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but some restaurants will accommodate requests if informed in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Montataire is accessible, with local clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. The nearest hospital is located in Creil, which offers a range of medical services. Pharmacies are also present in the town for basic medical needs, and emergency services can be reached by dialing the local emergency number.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide