Idea for a trip in yvelines

Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines: the surprising origin of its name

The name of Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, this vast agglomeration in the Yvelines about 20 km southwest of Paris, derives from a small medieval chapel dedicated to a 3rd‑century Roman martyr. A story that few Île-de-France residents know. Here's the story.

Free castles, museums and monuments in Yvelines, Sunday, May 3, 2026, the first Sunday of the month - 78

On the first Sunday of every month, many monuments, castles, museums, and historic sites in Yvelines open their doors for free. But that isn’t the case for everyone, all year round. To help you navigate, here’s the list of cultural sites in the 78 to visit this Sunday, May 3, 2026.

Yvelines: a park designated as a natural site and its historic island cloaked in wisteria

In the Yvelines, just a short stroll from the RER A, the Parc des Ibis du Vésinet reveals, in late April to early May 2026, its Chinese wisterias in full bloom around a large lake designated a natural site since 1934. We went to explore it, and it’s a true feast for the eyes and a perfect place to recharge.

Ten offbeat parks and gardens in Yvelines, treasures to discover

What if we set off on a stroll to discover the loveliest original parks and gardens in Yvelines? From hidden, unique, historic spots to outright quirky or simply one-of-a-kind places, the 78 has no shortage of unusual gems for anyone looking to stray off the beaten path. We’re unveiling 10 parks, gardens, and green spaces to explore in the department.

Le Jardin Yili, the unusual Chinese garden hidden away in the Yvelines

Jardin Yili is the only privately-owned traditional Chinese garden in France. Head for Saint-Rémy-l'Honoré in the Yvelines, about 33 km from Paris, for a change of scenery. Discover this 10,000 m² green space, imbued with spirituality and tranquility, where you can discover the art of Chinese gardens and immerse yourself in a feng shui setting inspired by age-old traditions.

Yvelines: do you know this temple of love, the romantic kiosque bridge tucked away in a verdant setting?

In the Yvelines, at the heart of the Bonnelles pond nature reserve, a charming bridge-kiosk nicknamed the “Temple of Love” still bears witness to an 18th-century parc à fabriques—an elaborate garden of follies. Open to the public for discovery in 2026.

This flower-filled park in the Yvelines hides an arboretum, royal secrets, and has inspired Blake and Mortimer.

In Buc, in the Yvelines, the park of Haut-Buc Castle is freely accessible year-round. A pedagogical arboretum, Louis XIV’s secret child, an eccentric astronomer, and the backdrop for Blake and Mortimer: this estate has more than one story to tell. Here’s more about this superb place in full bloom, a must for tulip lovers.

Rambouillet Lily-of-the-Valley Festival 2026: games, parade and fireworks on the agenda

The Rambouillet Lily Festival will take place on May 9 and 10, 2026 in the Yvelines, centered around board games and video games: a floral procession, the crowning of the queen, a pyrosymphonic show, and a lineup of activities.

The only medieval keep with buttresses in Île-de-France is located in the Yvelines.

In Yvelines, at Maurepas, the remains of a 20-meter-high cylindrical keep stand as the sole remnant of a medieval fortress from the 12th century. Recognized as a historic monument since 1926, it still holds the secrets of a turbulent past. Here’s the story.

The Free Viroflay Plant Festival 2026 (78)

The Viroflay Plant Festival in the Yvelines is making a comeback on March 21 and 22, 2026, right outside the media library. Expect a vibrant display of colorful plants, shrubs, geraniums, palms, and local producers—all open to the public with free admission.

Esprit Jardin 2026 in Versailles: the Free Plant Festival — Here's the Program

Sprit Jardin is back on April 25 and 26, 2026, for its free plant festival in the Saint-Louis neighborhood and at the Potager du Roi in Versailles: 100 exhibitors, creative workshops, entertainment, and a special program to celebrate the 400th anniversary await visitors.

Le Chou de Chanorier, the restaurant set inside a castle in the Yvelines, reviewed by Charlie Anne

Non-Parisian bistros that delight us with their restaurants—primarily in Hauts-de-Seine—expanded their horizons last year with a new opening in Yvelines! And not just anywhere, but at the stunning Château Chanorier in Croissy-Sur-Seine, where you can now indulge in a delicious meal. And the surprise? The menu is crafted by Charlie Anne, the Top Chef 2025 finalist. We visited the Chou de Chanorier restaurant, which offers a concise, mouthwatering selection and even features a special Courchevel terrace for those who love raclette and fondue.

Chinese New Year in Maisons-Laffitte offers a wonderful lineup of free activities

Maisons-Laffitte rings in the Chinese New Year with a free afternoon of workshops and activities on February 15, 2026. The event features calligraphy, origami, Qi Gong, and tea-tasting sessions, offering a vibrant introduction to traditional Chinese culture.

The source of the Yvette: a mysterious statue in the Yvelines

Did you know? A mysterious statue represents the source of the Yvette. Nestled in the heart of the Yvelines, in Essarts-le-Roi, an intriguing sculpture marks the birth of this Île-de-France river. Open year-round, this hidden gem can be discovered during a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Chevreuse Valley.

The Endesumar Medieval Festival 2026 in Yvelines promises a journey back in time

The Endesumar Medieval Festival is returning on September 12 and 13, 2026, at Château de Rangiport in Gargenville, Yvelines. This Viking and medieval celebration, organized by the Le Clan d'Ivar association, offers an immersive experience into the world of Scandinavian warriors from the 9th to the 11th centuries.

Lueurs de Mantes: the free light walking trail in the heart of Yvelines 2026 is waiting for you

Lueurs de Mantes makes its grand return from January 15 to February 1, 2026, in Mantes-la-Jolie for a third edition that promises an even more immersive experience. This free light trail through Yvelines lights up the city center, turning it into an open-air museum with eight brand-new installations, a captivating drone show, and two intimate concerts.

This Yvelines Christmas Market offers a pyrotechnic drone show, ice rink, and free rides.

The Élancourt Christmas Village returns from December 5 to 7, 2025, at the Guy Boniface sports park in the Yvelines. On the program: free drone and fireworks show, 200 m² ice rink, traditional chalets, and festive entertainment for the whole family. We'll tell you everything...

Paris-Versailles-Mantes walk 2026, registration now open for the night hike

Registration for the 89th edition of the Paris-Versailles-Mantes walk has been open since December 3, 2025, in the Yvelines. Join us on the night of January 24-25, 2026, for this legendary night hike between Versailles and Mantes-la-Jolie, with four routes ranging from 12 to 52 km.

This Yvelines Christmas Market offers a magical journey, a carousel, and free wine and hot chocolate.

The Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse Christmas market immerses us in the festive atmosphere of the Yvelines on November 29 and 30, 2025. On the program: local artisans, magical shows, free wine and hot chocolate, activities for children, and delicacies to enjoy on site.

A big medieval festival in the Yvelines this Saturday: craft market, shows, and entertainment

If you're looking for a great idea for a free and original outing in the Yvelines, Mantes-la-Jolie will be transformed into a medieval city on Saturday, November 22, 2025. For the 575th Onion Fair, the city center will offer entertainment, shows, and period craftsmen.