Things To Do
in Saint-Gratien

Saint-Gratien is a charming suburban town located in the Val-d'Oise department of France, just north of Paris. Known for its quiet residential areas and beautiful parks, it offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The town is well-connected to Paris, making it a popular choice for commuters.

Visitors can enjoy a blend of local culture, history, and green spaces, making it an appealing destination for families and travelers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, then visit the historic Église Saint-Gratien, a beautiful church with stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Stroll through Parc de la Mairie, a lovely park perfect for a picnic, and explore the nearby local shops for unique souvenirs.

evening
:

Dine at Le Relais de la Mairie, a traditional French restaurant, and take a peaceful evening walk along the Canal de la Gare.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Leisure
morning
:

Begin your day with a walk or jog around the Parc des Sports, enjoying the fresh air and open spaces.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby town of Enghien-les-Bains to visit the thermal spa or try your luck at the casino.

evening
:

End your day with a casual dinner at a bistro in Enghien-les-Bains, followed by a scenic lakeside walk.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
Coffee$3
🍷Glass of Wine$5
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$20
🚌Public Transport Ticket$2
🏨Hotel Room (per night)$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris for easy access to city attractions.
  • Charming parks and green spaces perfect for relaxation.
  • A quieter atmosphere than the bustling Paris city center.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to Paris.
  • Fewer attractions and activities within Saint-Gratien itself.
  • Public transport may have limited schedules during late hours.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "L'addition, s'il vous plaît" - The bill, please

Places to Visit in Saint-Gratien

Visit one of these nice places.

Église Saint-Gratien

This historic church features stunning stained glass windows and intricate stonework, perfect for architectural photography.

Canal de la Gare

The picturesque canal provides beautiful views, especially at sunset, making it ideal for landscape photography.

Parc des Sports

This park offers lush greenery and sports facilities, great for capturing outdoor activities and playful moments.

Culinary Guide

Food in Saint-Gratien

Saint-Gratien offers a delightful taste of traditional French cuisine with a local twist, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Saint-Gratien Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised in red wine, often served with mushrooms and onions.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a must-try dessert in the region.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Saint-Gratien

A weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and artisanal products.

Climate Guide

Weather

Saint-Gratien has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring (March to May) sees milder temperatures and blooming flowers, with averages of 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F). Summers (June to August) are warm and occasionally hot, with highs reaching 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures, averaging 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F), with colorful foliage.

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 customary.

Dining Etiquette

It's polite to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows).

Dress Code

Dress smartly, especially when dining out; casual wear is acceptable, but avoid overly relaxed attire.

Safety Guide

Safety

Saint-Gratien is generally considered a safe town, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. It's also advisable to be cautious around train stations and public transport, as pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.

Tipping in Saint-Gratien

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) for good service in restaurants, although service is usually included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it a great time for outdoor activities and park visits.

Summer

Summer can be warm, so expect plenty of outdoor events and festivals, as well as crowded parks and cafes.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography and enjoying cozy meals indoors.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snow, creating a charming atmosphere for holiday markets and festive decorations.

Nightlife Guide

Saint-Gratien at Night

Saint-Gratien offers a relaxed nightlife scene, with several cozy bars and cafés where locals gather. While it may not be as vibrant as nearby Paris, visitors can enjoy a few laid-back evenings with good company. The nearby town of Enghien-les-Bains features a casino and a few nightclubs for those looking for a livelier atmosphere. Wine bars and bistros often stay open late, offering a chance to sample local wines and cuisine.

Hiking in Saint-Gratien

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Pêcheurs

This scenic trail along the banks of the Canal de la Gare offers a peaceful hiking experience with beautiful views of nature.

Parc Naturel Régional du Vexin Français

A short drive away, this regional park features various hiking trails through picturesque countryside, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Saint-Gratien by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)

Approximately 25 km away, this is the main international airport serving Paris, offering numerous flight connections worldwide.

Getting Around

Walkability

Saint-Gratien is quite walkable, with most amenities, parks, and local shops within walking distance of each other. The town features pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and pathways, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. The surrounding areas, including the canal and parks, provide pleasant walking routes for leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Saint-Gratien has a significant population of families, drawn to its suburban lifestyle, parks, and schools.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Saint-Gratien, commuting to Paris for work, attracted by the town's tranquility and community feel.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating in competitions.

Tennis

Tennis is widely played in Saint-Gratien, with several local courts available for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Saint-Gratien is generally manageable, with peak hours seeing increased congestion, especially during the morning and evening commutes to Paris. Public transportation options include trains and buses, which provide convenient access to nearby areas and Paris. The train station connects to the Paris suburban rail network, making it easy for visitors to travel without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Gratien.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though it is advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free

Some establishments can accommodate gluten-free diets, but it's best to inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Saint-Gratien is reliable, with several clinics and pharmacies available for minor ailments. For more serious issues, hospitals in nearby towns are easily accessible. France has a high standard of healthcare, and residents often have health insurance, which may cover visitors in emergencies.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide