Things To Do
in Nanterre
Nanterre is a dynamic suburb just west of Paris that blends leafy neighborhoods with a growing university and cultural scene. It serves as a gateway to La Défense's striking skyline while retaining historic town centers and parks. The area is well-connected by the RER A and local transit, making Paris landmarks easily reachable in under 30 minutes.
Visitors can enjoy markets, museums, parks, and contemporary architecture in a less touristy setting than central Paris.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a stroll through the historic center of Nanterre, where the charming streets are lined with traditional French architecture. Stop by the Nanterre Cathedral, an impressive 19th-century structure, and admire its stunning stained glass. Grab a coffee and a croissant at a nearby café while enjoying the vibrant morning atmosphere.
After lunch, visit the Parc André Malraux, where you can unwind in the beautiful gardens and take in the serene environment. Explore the local art installations scattered throughout the park and engage with the history behind them. As the afternoon rolls in, consider visiting the nearby La Défense district to marvel at its modern architecture and bustling urban life.
As the sun sets, head to a local bistro for an authentic French dinner, indulging in delicacies like coq au vin or ratatouille. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Seine River, enjoying the twinkling lights reflecting on the water. Cap off the evening with a glass of wine at a cozy wine bar while soaking in the local ambiance.
Start your day at the Nanterre Market, where locals gather to sell fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and handmade crafts. Immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and aromas, chatting with vendors and sampling local delights. Take your time exploring the stalls, as this is a great opportunity to experience the heart of Nanterre’s community.
After the market, prepare a picnic with your market finds and head to the Parc des Anciennes Mairies, a perfect spot to enjoy your meal amidst nature. Spend your afternoon relaxing in the park, perhaps with a good book or by simply people-watching. Alternatively, visit the nearby historical sites, such as the Maison de la Culture, to learn more about the cultural heritage of Nanterre.
In the evening, dine at a traditional French restaurant, savoring dishes made from seasonal ingredients. After dinner, enjoy a performance at the Théâtre des Amandiers, known for its diverse programming that showcases both contemporary and classic works. Reflect on your day over a nightcap at a nearby bar, gaining insights from locals about their city.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-6 |
| 🚇Public transport pass (monthly) | $70-95 |
| 🏨Hotel (1 night, mid-range) | $120-180 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $12-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Paris with easy transit access
- Strong university and cultural scene
- Pleasant parks and riverside areas
- La Défense adds modern architecture and nightlife options close by
- Limited nightlife within Nanterre itself compared to central Paris
- Some area parts can be quiet at night
- Crowded peak-hour transport around the metro lines
- Weather can be changeable in transitional seasons
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est la gare ?" - Where is the station?
- "Combien ça coûte ?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Nanterre
Visit one of these nice places.
A central park with a serene lake, tree-lined paths and wildlife—great for morning light and candid park portraits.
Iconic modern arch framed by gleaming towers; ideal for architectural shots and sunset reflections.
Contemporary university campus with geometric buildings and courtyards—good for architectural photography.
Riverside paths near Nanterre with bridges and greenery for relaxed cityscape photography.
Food in Nanterre
Nanterre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A timeless French staple of tender steak with crispy fries; widely available in brasseries around the town center.
Must-Try!
A colorful Provençal vegetable medley roasted with herbs; common in casual bistros and market stalls.
French onion soup topped with melted cheese; a comforting choice in cozy cafés.
Delicate sweet or savory crepes from street-food stalls or local cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheese, bread, meat and prepared foods.
Seasonal street-food vendors offering quick bites and pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bonjour'; a handshake is common in formal settings; 'la bise' may be used among friends.
Be punctual for appointments; reservations are appreciated.
French is preferred; attempting a few phrases in French is appreciated.
Greet vendors; many markets are casual; cash is commonly used.
Safety
Tipping in Nanterre
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service compris is often included; if not, 5-10% is customary in restaurants; rounding up is common.
Cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still usable; keep small bills for tips.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; occasional showers; stay hydrated and seek shaded parks.
Mild to cool days; colorful foliage in parks; earlier sunsets, great for golden-hour photography.
Cool to cold with possible rain; shorter daylight hours; indoor venues and city lights provide alternatives for photography.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for outdoor walks and park photography.
Nanterre at Night
Hiking in Nanterre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Riverside trails and park areas ideal for short hikes and scenic walks; accessible via public transport.
Expansive woodland and lakes with trails suitable for longer hikes and outdoor activities, reachable by transit from Nanterre.
Airports
How to reach Nanterre by plane.
Major international hub about 25-30 km northeast; 30-60 minutes by RER B or taxi.
Southern hub about 25-30 km south; 30-50 minutes by train/road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large segment due to Université Paris Nanterre; vibrant, budget-conscious, cosmopolitan.
Many commuters who work in La Défense and central Paris, seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and local markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at local clubs and parks; community teams and school leagues.
Active cycling culture; bike lanes in and around Nanterre and La Défense.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nanterre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; ask for légumes du marché, salads, and plant-based mains; many menus label vegetarian dishes.