Things To Do
in Vanves

Vanves is a charming commune located just south of Paris, known for its quaint streets and vibrant local culture. It offers a blend of historical architecture and modern amenities, making it an ideal base for exploring the greater Paris area. With parks, local markets, and community events, Vanves reflects the essence of suburban Parisian life.

Its proximity to the capital allows visitors to enjoy both the tranquility of a small town and the hustle of the city.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day at Parc Frédéric Mistral, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk and take in the lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Vanves Market on Avenue Antoine Fratacci, one of the best food markets in the area, to sample local cheeses and pastries.

evening
:

Dine at Le Petit Vanves, a cozy bistro known for its traditional French cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Art and History
morning
:

Begin with a visit to the Eglise Saint-Rémy, a beautiful church with intricate stained glass windows.

afternoon
:

Explore the contemporary art exhibits at the La Maison de la Culture, which regularly hosts local artists.

evening
:

Enjoy a drink at La Terrasse, a popular local bar with a pleasant outdoor seating area.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$25
Coffee$3
🍞Baguette$1.20
🥖Pastry$2.50
🚌Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close proximity to Paris, making it easy to explore the capital.
  • Charming local culture with friendly residents.
  • Diverse culinary scene offering traditional French dishes.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to central Paris.
  • Some attractions may require travel to Paris.
  • Fewer international dining options than larger cities.
  • "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 Vanves

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc Frédéric Mistral

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

Eglise Saint-Rémy

This historical church with its stunning architecture provides a beautiful backdrop for photos.

Vanves Market

The vibrant stalls and colorful produce create a lively atmosphere perfect for street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vanves

Vanves offers a delightful culinary experience with a range of traditional French dishes and local specialties.

Vanves Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish made with chicken braised slowly in red wine, mushrooms, and lardons.

Must-Try!

Ratatouille

A vegetable medley consisting of zucchini, eggplant, bell peppers, and tomatoes, seasoned with herbs.

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that perfectly showcases local pastry skills.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Vanves Market

A bustling market held on weekends offering fresh produce, cheeses, and pastries.

Street Crepes

Street vendors selling delicious crepes filled with sweet or savory fillings, a must-try while exploring.

Climate Guide

Weather

Vanves experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, averaging around 2°C (36°F), while summers (June to August) are warm, averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly consistent throughout the year, so it's wise to carry an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting with a Kiss

It is common to greet acquaintances with a kiss on the cheek, usually two or three times.

Polite Language

Always use 'Bonjour' when entering shops or restaurants and 'Merci' when leaving.

Dining Etiquette

Keep hands on the table (not in your lap) during meals, and wait for everyone to be served before starting.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vanves is generally considered a safe area for visitors. However, basic precautions should be observed, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any urgent issues.

Tipping in Vanves

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a small tip (5-10%) in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Most establishments accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers in parks and moderate temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Summers can be warm, providing an excellent opportunity for outdoor dining and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage and mild weather, perfect for photography.

Winter

Winters are cold, and while snowfall is rare, the festive decorations create a charming holiday atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Vanves at Night

Vanves has a relaxed nightlife scene centered around its local bars and bistros. Many establishments offer live music or themed nights, especially on weekends. For a more vibrant atmosphere, residents often head to nearby Paris for a wider selection of clubs and events. The local bars like La Terrasse are popular for enjoying cocktails or wine while mingling with locals.

Hiking in Vanves

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bois de Vincennes

A large park located to the east of Paris, featuring numerous trails for walking and hiking.

Parc de Sceaux

A beautiful park with scenic walking paths, gardens, and a historic chateau, perfect for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Vanves by plane.

Paris Orly Airport

Located approximately 12 km from Vanves, Orly Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the closest airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vanves is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian zones. The compact layout allows visitors to explore its charming streets, parks, and local shops on foot. Public transportation is also easily accessible for trips into Paris.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

Many young families are attracted to Vanves for its parks, schools, and community events.

Working Professionals

The proximity to Paris makes Vanves a popular residential area for professionals commuting to the city.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

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

Cycling

Cycling is popular among residents, especially with the extensive bike paths available throughout the area.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vanves is manageable, with peak hours during morning and evening commutes. Public transportation options include buses and the Paris Metro, providing easy access to the city center and surrounding areas. Biking is also a popular alternative for quick and eco-friendly travel.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vanves.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger eateries.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Vanves is easily accessible, with several clinics and pharmacies available. The nearby hospitals in Paris provide comprehensive medical services. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international medical care.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide