Things To Do
in Senlis
Senlis is a well-preserved medieval town in the Oise department, just under an hour from Paris by train. Its compact historic core centers on the Notre-Dame de Senlis Cathedral, with timber-framed houses, cobbled lanes, and ancient gates. The town sits near forested countryside and serves as a gateway to the Hauts-de-France region’s heritage, including nearby Chantilly and the Halatte forest.
Visitors enjoy a relaxed, walkable atmosphere with markets, artisans, and easy day trips from a peaceful base.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the enchanting cobblestone streets of Senlis. Visit the stunning Gothic architecture of the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, where the morning light highlights its intricate details. Stop for a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee.
Spend your afternoon exploring the Royal Palace of Senlis, where you can learn about the town’s rich history and enjoy the beautiful gardens. Take a break at one of the parks for a picnic with locally sourced delicacies. As the sun begins to lower, wander through historic squares, appreciating the charming shops.
As night falls, dine at a traditional French bistro, savoring local dishes paired with exquisite wines. After dinner, stroll through the illuminated streets of Senlis, enjoying the serene atmosphere and unique architecture. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the sights and sounds experienced throughout the day.
Begin your day by visiting the Musée de la Vigne et du Vin to appreciate the art of winemaking in the region. Engage with interactive displays that unveil the history and techniques used in local vineyards. Afterward, enjoy a fresh croissant at a nearby bakery, embracing the local flavors.
In the afternoon, head over to the Atelier de la Photographie to admire contemporary photography exhibitions. Join a guided tour to learn about the artists and their inspirations, which provides insight into French culture. Take some time to relax at a café with outdoor seating, people-watching and soaking in the beautiful surroundings.
For dinner, treat yourself to a gourmet meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, where creativity in cuisine comes alive. Experience the elegance of dining as you relish each course paired with an excellent wine selection. Conclude the night with a poetic walk along the ramparts, under the enchanting French sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee in cafe | $3-5 |
| 🥖Bakery item | $2-4 |
| 🧀Cheese and wine pairing | $8-18 |
| 🚆One-way public transport ticket | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval heritage and walkable historic center
- Easy day trips to Chantilly and forested countryside
- Relaxed pace with charming markets and cafés
- Strong accessibility from Paris via train
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to major cities
- Limited high-end dining options within town center
- Some sites require short trips outside the town for major attractions
- "Bonjour" - Hello (formal daytime greeting)
- "Bonsoir" - Good evening
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
- "Où est…?" - Where is…?
- "Je voudrais…" - I would like…
Places to Visit in Senlis
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking Romanesque-Gothic cathedral with soaring arches and detailed stonework, ideal for exterior shots at dawn and interior details in softer light.
Old town walls and historic gates offer dramatic lines and silhouettes, great for golden-hour photography.
Cobbled lanes, timber-framed houses, and charming shopfronts provide intimate street scenes.
Quiet riverside views with reflections and swans, perfect for tranquil landscape compositions.
Hidden green spaces and small chapel ruins yield atmospheric, moody compositions.
Food in Senlis
Senlis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Description of the dish and where to find it
Must-Try!
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Description of the market and what to try there
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous Bonjour or Bonsoir to shopkeepers is appreciated; use ‘Madame/Monsieur’ when addressing adults. French is preferred for formal interactions.
Speak calmly, avoid loud conversations in public spaces, and wait to be seated or invited in cafés and restaurants.
Respect quiet in historical sites; photography may be restricted inside certain interiors.
Safety
Tipping in Senlis
Ensure a smooth experience
In France, service is often included in the bill (service compris). A small extra tip (5–10%) is appreciated for good service, especially in cafés and informal venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with long daylight hours; use early mornings for photography and outdoor explorations. Markets and outdoor seating are common; occasional showers can occur.
Soft light and autumnal colors along streets and in parks; harvest flavors show in local markets. Layers are helpful for fluctuating temperatures.
Cool to chilly with potential frost; daylight is shorter, so plan indoor visits mid-day and festive lights in evenings. Warm cafés are inviting.
Mild temperatures and blooming trees create vibrant street scenes and parks; great for walking tours and outdoor dining.
Senlis at Night
Hiking in Senlis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Expansive forest with well-marked trails, wildlife, and shade; ideal for day hikes and long walks.
Nearby forest network offering scenic routes, picnic spots, and views of the countryside.
Airports
How to reach Senlis by plane.
Major international hub about 30–60 minutes by car or train from Senlis, with frequent connections to domestic destinations.
Smaller regional airport about 40–60 minutes away by car, serving several budget and domestic routes.
Another major hub within roughly 1.5 hours by road or rail, useful for southern Europe and domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Residents with children and extended family routines, often choosing Senlis for schools and a safe town environment.
People traveling to Paris and other hubs for work, drawn by the balance of city access and small-town living.
Quiet neighborhoods with affordable housing options and local cultural activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals; local clubs and recreation leagues are common in nearby towns.
Flat to hilly routes in adjacent countryside make cycling a common activity for residents and visitors.
Regionally significant owing to proximity to Chantilly; equestrian activities are a part of the broader area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Senlis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
How to navigate as a vegetarian in this location