Things To Do
in Vaux-le-Pénil

Vaux-le-Pénil is a charming commune located in the Seine-et-Marne department of the Île-de-France region, just southeast of Paris. It features a mix of suburban life and natural beauty, making it an attractive destination for visitors looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The area is known for its picturesque parks, historic architecture, and proximity to various attractions in the greater Paris region.

With its friendly community and serene atmosphere, Vaux-le-Pénil offers a delightful experience for travelers of all ages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Vaux-le-Pénil
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Parc des Cygnes, enjoying the serene landscapes and birdwatching opportunities.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market at Place de la Mairie to sample fresh produce and artisanal goods, followed by a visit to the Église Saint-Georges.

evening
:

Dine at Le Bistrot de Vaux, savoring traditional French cuisine and enjoying the cozy ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions
morning
:

Take a short drive to the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, exploring its beautiful gardens and rich history.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby town of Melun for a leisurely lunch and to explore its charming streets and shops.

evening
:

Return to Vaux-le-Pénil for a relaxing evening at Café de la Gare, enjoying live music and local drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$20
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$6
🍏Grocery items (1kg apples)$3
🚆Public transport ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere away from city crowds.
  • Proximity to major attractions like Fontainebleau.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Limited nightlife options and entertainment.
  • Public transport can be infrequent compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer English speakers may be encountered in smaller establishments.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Où est...?" - Where is...?
  • "Je ne comprends pas" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Vaux-le-Pénil

Visit one of these nice places.

Parc des Cygnes

A peaceful park featuring beautiful swans and scenic pathways, perfect for nature photography.

Château de Fontainebleau

This historic castle offers stunning architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, ideal for capturing grandeur.

Église Saint-Georges

A picturesque church with charming stained glass windows, offering a glimpse into local history and artistry.

Culinary Guide

Food in Vaux-le-Pénil

Vaux-le-Pénil offers a delightful gastronomic experience that highlights the flavors of France, making it a must-visit for food lovers.

Vaux-le-Pénil Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Coq au Vin

A classic French dish of chicken braised with wine, lardons, mushrooms, and garlic, often served with crusty bread.

Must-Try!

Tarte Tatin

An upside-down caramelized apple tart that is a local favorite, perfect for dessert lovers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Place de la Mairie Market

A vibrant local market held every Saturday, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and baked goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Vaux-le-Pénil features a temperate oceanic climate with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 5°C (41°F) in winter to 25°C (77°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months being May and June. Snow may occur in winter, but it is usually light and melts quickly.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Always greet shopkeepers and locals with a 'Bonjour' when entering stores and restaurants.

Dining Etiquette

It is customary to wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat, and to keep hands on the table (but not elbows).

Dress Code

Dress smartly when dining out; casual but neat attire is generally expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Vaux-le-Pénil is generally a safe commune with low crime rates. However, it is always advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Vaux-le-Pénil

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping in restaurants is generally included in the bill, but rounding up or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and picnics.

Summer

Warm temperatures and longer days make summer ideal for exploring parks and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall colors in the parks, along with a mild climate, perfect for leisurely walks.

Winter

Winter brings colder temperatures and occasional snow, creating a picturesque landscape, particularly around historical sites.

Nightlife Guide

Vaux-le-Pénil at Night

Vaux-le-Pénil offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few cozy bars and cafés where locals gather to unwind. Most venues close early, around midnight, but they offer a warm atmosphere for socializing over drinks. Occasionally, there are live music events at local cafés, providing a pleasant ambiance for visitors looking to enjoy the evening.

Hiking in Vaux-le-Pénil

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sentier des Potiers

A scenic hiking trail located near the town, perfect for enjoying nature and the local flora and fauna.

La Forêt de Fontainebleau

A renowned hiking destination with numerous trails ranging from easy to challenging, offering breathtaking views of the forest.

Airports

How to reach Vaux-le-Pénil by plane.

Paris Orly Airport (ORY)

Located approximately 40 km from Vaux-le-Pénil, it offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient choice for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Vaux-le-Pénil is quite walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The local parks and attractions are easily accessible on foot, making it convenient for visitors to explore without the need for a car. However, some areas may require a bit of walking to reach public transport stops.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Families

A significant demographic group, young families are drawn to Vaux-le-Pénil for its residential feel and local schools.

Retirees

The peaceful environment and access to nature attract many retirees looking for a quiet place to live.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in the region, with local teams and clubs actively participating in community leagues.

Cycling

With scenic routes and pathways, cycling is a favored activity among residents, especially during the summer months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Vaux-le-Pénil is generally light, with most residents using cars for transportation. Public transportation options include buses connecting to nearby towns and a regional train service to Paris, though schedules may vary. Biking and walking are also popular options, especially for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Vaux-le-Pénil.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are available, especially in larger restaurants; however, it's best to ask the staff for recommendations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Vaux-le-Pénil is good, with local clinics and pharmacies available for basic medical needs. For more serious conditions, residents often visit larger hospitals located in nearby towns, such as Melun. Emergency services are accessible and can be reached via the national emergency number.

Discover France

Read more in our France 2025 Travel Guide.

France Travel Guide