Things To Do
in Stains

Stains is a charming suburb located in the Seine-Saint-Denis department of the Île-de-France region, just north of Paris. Known for its diverse community and rich history, Stains offers a unique blend of urban and suburban life. The area features beautiful parks, local markets, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it an inviting destination for visitors.

It's also well-connected to Paris, allowing easy access to the capital's famous attractions while retaining its own local charm.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Parc de la Mairie, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll among the lush greenery and sculptures.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market at Place de la République to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample fresh produce and local delicacies.

evening
:

Dine at Le Bistrot de Stains, where you can savor traditional French cuisine in a cozy setting.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Paris
morning
:

Take a quick train ride to Paris and visit the iconic Eiffel Tower, capturing stunning photos from the Trocadéro Gardens.

afternoon
:

Explore the Louvre Museum and marvel at world-famous artworks, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Return to Stains and enjoy a relaxing dinner at Restaurant La Table de Stains, known for its seasonal dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍷Glass of wine$5
🍔Fast food combo$10
🚌Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris for easy access to major attractions.
  • Rich cultural diversity and local flavor.
  • Charming parks and outdoor spaces for relaxation.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to central Paris.
  • Public transport can get crowded during peak hours.
  • Less tourist infrastructure than larger cities.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où sont les toilettes?" - Where are the restrooms?
  • "Je ne parle pas français" - I do not speak French

Places to Visit in Stains

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc de la Mairie

A picturesque park featuring beautiful gardens and sculptures, ideal for capturing serene landscapes.

Eiffel Tower View from Trocadéro

A stunning vantage point that provides iconic views of the Eiffel Tower, especially at sunset.

Louvre Pyramid

The glass pyramid entrance of the Louvre is a modern architectural marvel, perfect for striking photographs.

Culinary Guide

Food in Stains

Stains offers a delightful gastronomic experience that showcases the rich culinary traditions of the region.

Stains Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Boeuf Bourguignon

A classic French beef stew braised in red wine, often served with potatoes or crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Quiche Lorraine

A savory pie made with eggs, cream, cheese, and lardons, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché de Stains

A bustling local market held weekly, featuring fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and local specialties.

Climate Guide

Weather

Stains experiences a temperate oceanic climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 3°C in January to 25°C in July, with moderate rainfall throughout the year. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, featuring comfortable temperatures and colorful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet people with 'Bonjour' (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants; it's considered polite.

Dining Etiquette

When dining, keep your hands on the table (but not your elbows) and wait for the host to start the meal.

Personal Space

Respect personal space and maintain a polite distance when conversing, as the French value their privacy.

Safety Guide

Safety

Stains is generally safe for visitors, with a low crime rate. However, as in any urban area, it's advisable to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Stains

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is generally appreciated but not mandatory in France. Leaving small change or rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's wise to carry some cash for local markets and smaller establishments.

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 park visits.

Summer

Summers can be warm, with temperatures averaging around 25°C. Great for outdoor dining and events.

Autumn

The city transforms with beautiful fall colors, and temperatures begin to cool, perfect for cozy café visits.

Winter

Winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 3°C. Enjoy holiday festivities and warm meals indoors.

Nightlife Guide

Stains at Night

Stains has a modest nightlife scene, primarily focused on local bars and bistros. Popular spots include cozy wine bars where you can enjoy a glass of local wine and casual eateries offering late-night snacks. For those seeking more entertainment, nearby Paris offers a plethora of clubs, theaters, and live music venues to explore.

Hiking in Stains

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parc de la Villette

Located nearby, this park features numerous walking paths and green spaces to explore, perfect for casual hikes.

Les Quatre Chemins

A scenic trail that offers a peaceful escape into nature, with opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora.

Airports

How to reach Stains by plane.

Charles de Gaulle Airport

Located about 20 km from Stains, this international airport offers numerous flights to destinations around the world, with convenient access to public transport into Paris.

Getting Around

Walkability

Stains is fairly walkable, with many amenities and attractions accessible on foot. The streets are generally safe for walking, and there are several pedestrian paths in parks. However, some areas may require walking along busier roads, so be cautious.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Stains has a significant population of young families, attracted by its parks and schools, creating a vibrant community atmosphere.

Cultural Communities

The suburb is home to a diverse mix of cultural communities, contributing to its rich culinary and cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is incredibly popular in Stains, with local clubs and community events regularly organized.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys a strong following, with many youth leagues and recreational play available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Stains can be moderate, particularly during rush hours as commuters travel to and from Paris. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is efficient and widely used, providing easy access to surrounding areas and reducing the need for personal vehicles.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Stains.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus. Local markets also provide fresh vegetables and cheeses.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in cafes; however, it's important to confirm with staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Stains is supported by local clinics and hospitals, with access to general practitioners and specialists. The French healthcare system is known for its quality, and emergency services are available. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide