To the east of Paris, in the outer suburbs, lies the département of Yvelines : known for its world-famous monuments, such as the Château de Versailles, the area is rich in cultural, heritage and natural discoveries. Shall we take you with us?
From the majestic Château de Versailles, with its sumptuous formal gardens and lavish galleries, to the charming town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, birthplace of Louis XIV, via the Château de Rambouillet, former presidential residence, every corner of this département takes you on a journey through the centuries and the history of France. Don't miss the Villa Savoye, Le Corbusier's masterpiece and a symbol of modern architecture, or the unusual Château de Monte-Cristo, where Alexandre Dumas lived... Not to mention the medieval castles, historic abbeys and artists' houses that make up the region's cultural wealth.
Budding adventurers will love the Thoiry zoo-safari, where you can observe wild species evolving within their enclosures, or the Rambolitrain, the museum dedicated to the Rambouillet toy train. The Yvelines are full of surprises and pretty spots to explore. Hiking enthusiasts will also be well catered for: between the Chevreuse valley and the Saint-Germain-en-Laye forest, not to mention the region's remarkable parks and gardens, there's plenty of scope for beautiful walks, with a little bit of elevation gain.
Heritage, cultural outings & walks
Paris-Nice 2026: A free festival village in Achères celebrating cycling, opening before the race starts
The Paris-Nice race kicks off this weekend on March 7 and 8, 2026, in Achères, Yvelines! To celebrate, a large outdoor village offering free activities is set up to entertain visitors of all ages, all centered around the world of cycling. [Read more]
Paris-Nice 2026: Route details revealed from the Yvelines region
The 2026 Paris-Nice race is set to kick off from the Yvelines on March 8 and 9. The opening stage will start in Achères and finish in Carrières-sous-Poissy, while the second stage will take off from Épône. Here's everything you need to know. [Read more]
Fort du Trou-d'Enfer: A Silent Reminder of the Franco-Prussian War to Explore in Yvelines
Discover Fort du Trou-d’Enfer, a little-known fortress in the Yvelines built after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870. Nestled within the Marly Forest, this historic military site opens its doors during special events and provides a captivating glimpse into 19th-century defensive architecture. [Read more]
The World of Figurines: our photos from the pop culture exhibit at the Old Post Office in Versailles
At Versailles, the former Post Office hosts The World of Figurines, an exhibition showcasing over 17,000 pieces that explore history, pop culture, and fantastical worlds. Designed to captivate all curious visitors and miniature enthusiasts, this immersive experience combines stunning recreations, interactive workshops, and an insight into meticulous craftsmanship. The exhibit runs from December 17, 2025, to March 15, 2026. [Read more]
Marie-Antoinette by Sofia Coppola: A Cinema Exhibition at the Domaine of Trianon in Versailles
Starting September 22, 2026, the world of cinema takes center stage at the Trianon Estate with a groundbreaking exhibition dedicated to Sofia Coppola's film "Marie-Antoinette," filmed on the grounds of Versailles. [Read more]
Gareopains in Méré: the Yvelines bakery-pastry shop renowned for its numerous awards
Gareopains (or Gare o Pains) in Méré, Yvelines, has earned a string of accolades and is a delight for food lovers. Named the best croissant of 2025 and crowned for best pastry of 2024, this spot is well worth a visit—or a sweet pause. [Read more]
Christmas 2025 in Sartrouville (78): Meet Santa Claus, glide on the ice rink, enjoy a spectacular light parade, pony rides, and live concerts
When the festive spirit fills the streets and warms up the winter, Sartrouville, in the Yvelines (78), promises a day full of magic: treats at the Debussy market, a meeting with Santa Claus, ice skating, a fairy-tale parade, and activities for children and adults at the Dispensary Park. From creative workshops and pony rides to a Christmas Pop Rock concert, December 21, 2025, will end with a spectacular, must-see light display! [Read more]
Off Golf: The Best Golf Courses in Île-de-France to Perfect Your Swing
Off Golf is a golf facility offering a unique experience that combines sport and entertainment, located in Rueil-Malmaison and Villennes-sur-Seine (78). Open to everyone, both venues welcome beginners and seasoned golfers alike to try their hand at swinging, featuring giant targets, a bar, and screens broadcasting live sports events. [Read more]
Are you familiar with the mysterious "Fairy Cave" in the Yvelines, a relic from the Neolithic era?
In Brueil-en-Vexin, Yvelines, a centuries-old stone monument continues to intrigue hikers and curious visitors alike. Dubbed the “Fairy’s Cave,” this Neolithic relic is shrouded in legends…but it also holds a genuine chapter of prehistory. [Read more]
Christmas 2025 in Poissy (78): Christmas Market, Enchanting Parade, Sledging, Mini Train, and Creative Workshops
The Poissy Christmas Market returns to Place de la République from December 12 to 14, 2025, offering a selection of unique gifts and delicious treats! Then, from December 20 to 28, 2025, the Christmas Village extends the festive spirit with activities for all ages—including sledging, a miniature train, creative workshops, and more. [Read more]
Christmas 2025 in Maisons-Laffitte (78): Christmas market, miniature train, entertainment, and toboggan run
In December, Maisons-Laffitte becomes the headquarters of Christmas magic with a host of activities to delight the whole family: face painting, balloon sculptors, ponies, a marching band, a miniature train, and a chance to meet Santa Claus. And, starting this weekend on December 6 and 7, the Handcrafted Christmas Market will set up its designer chalets for festive and 100% local shopping. [Read more]
Christmas 2025 in the Yvelines: the temporary ice rink in Sartrouville is back for the holidays.
The Sartrouville Christmas ice rink (78) is back at the station square from December 20, 2025, to January 4, 2026! The kickoff is on Saturday, December 20, with Santa Claus and a host of activities for the whole family! [Read more]
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. [Read more]
The 2025 Christmas Ice Rink in Mantes-la-Jolie (78): a free 300 m² ice rink
Mantes-la-Jolie is dressing up for Christmas with a temporary 300 m² ice rink on the Val Fourré slab, free and open to all. From December 20 to January 4, young and old alike can put on their skates, glide, laugh, and share frosty moments with their families. [Read more]
La Vie Parisienne: Offenbach's famous opera buffa comes to the Royal Opera of Versailles
Ready to experience Offenbach's Paris... in the majestic setting of Versailles? La Vie Parisienne takes over the Royal Opera House from December 27, 2025, to January 4, 2026, in its original 1866 version, as effervescent as when it was first created. [Read more]
Spots where to sleep and have fun with the kids
A sublime all-you-can-eat brunch on the banks of the Seine in the Yvelines, La Casa takes us on a journey.
Looking for a superb all-you-can-eat brunch to brighten up your Sunday? Head to La Casa in Medan, a new boat-themed restaurant offering a delicious brunch in an exotic setting on the banks of the Seine. Homemade dishes, pastries, and grilled meats—it's all there. [Read more]
Brunch and tea room at La Table d'Alice in Versailles, homemade food just the way we like it
Looking for a good place to have brunch in Versailles? Head to the Montreuil neighborhood, on Place Saint-Symphorien, to discover La Table d'Alice, a friendly spot offering homemade brunch with its specialty soufflé pancakes every weekend and on public holidays. [Read more]
Maison Tonnerre, the coffee shop, bakery and brunch in Versailles where everything is homemade
Maison Tonnerre is a beautiful, discreet address hidden away on the rue des Deux Portes in Versailles. This gourmet coffee shop has been offering pastries, vintage cakes, Sunday brunch and homemade dishes for two years in the Yvelines region, with a healthy, authentic approach. [Read more]
Brunch at La Tribu de Bébé, the kid-friendly space
La Tribu de bébé welcomes families every Sunday for a kid-friendly brunch. [Read more]
La Casa: an idyllic, exotic terrace restaurant on the banks of the Seine in Yvelines (78)
Once a favorite haunt of Émile Zola and his contemporaries, this century-old building in Médan has come back to life with La Casa, a new gourmet address in Yvelines (78). With a bistronomic brasserie, cocktail bar and XXL terrace on the banks of the Seine, you can enjoy the sun, the view and your food as if you were on a cruise... without leaving the Paris region! [Read more]
La Trattoria di Bambini, the Italian restaurant at the Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay Farm
La Trattoria di Bambini is the name of the new Italian restaurant hidden away in the farmhouse of the Abbaye des Vaux-de-Cernay in the Yvelines. Open to all, this gourmet spot is sure to delight fans of good pizzas and Italian dishes. We tell you all about it. [Read more]
La Ferme de l'Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay: a charming hotel in the heart of the Yvelines countryside
La Ferme de l'Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay, tucked away in the Vallée de Chevreuse, offers an enchanting interlude of country-style accommodation, Italian gastronomy and a connection to nature, to be discovered all year round in the Yvelines. Whether you're a Parisian looking for a weekend getaway or a tourist looking for a nature experience near Versailles or Dampierre, Ferme de l'Abbaye has a lot to offer. We've tested it and told you all about it... [Read more]
La Parenthèse Verte in Louveciennes: the bistronomic restaurant in the Yvelines with terrace
We're off to Louveciennes in the Yvelines to discover the Parenthèse Verte restaurant. Imagine a restaurant nestled in a verdant park, with a superb terrace offering a change of scenery for the 2025 summer season! With its bistronomic cuisine and friendly atmosphere, we'll take you on a voyage of discovery. [Read more]
L'Auberge des 3 hameaux, the friendly restaurant with leafy terrace in Choisel, Yvelines
The Auberge des 3 Hameaux is not just an inn, it's also an excellent bistronomic restaurant to discover. Nestled in the Vallée de Chevreuse, close to the Château de Breteuil, this Yvelines gourmet landmark has a lot going for it. Tested and approved, we warmly recommend it if you're in the mood for good food. [Read more]
La Maison Louveciennes, the festive restaurant with terrace and summer beach on the banks of the Seine - 78
Bistronomy, summer beaches and festive evenings just 20 minutes from Paris: La Maison Louveciennes, a landmark in the Yvelines region, welcomes you every day to its enchanting waterside setting. [Read more]
Le Coq de Bougival, the legendary Yvelines restaurant
Head for Le Coq de Bougival, 20 minutes from Paris, to discover a beautiful, warm building steeped in history, offering generous, authentic cuisine, just the way we like it. Discover its contemporary, cosy setting and its huge summer terrace. [Read more]
A superb all-you-can-eat brunch on a terrace with a breathtaking view in the Yvelines?
Are you looking for an all-you-can-eat buffet brunch on a terrace to soak up the sun? Let's go to the Belvédère du Domaine de la Corniche, located in Rolleboise in the Yvelines region, which offers an all-you-can-eat brunch every Sunday lunchtime and evening in summer, with a breathtaking view over the valley and the Seine. [Read more]
The all-you-can-eat brunch at La Parenthèse Verte in the Yvelines and its green terrace
All-you-can-eat brunch in the Yvelines, and more specifically in Louveciennes? We decided to try La Parenthèse Verte, a restaurant bathed in light, ideally nestled in a verdant park and boasting a large terrace where you can soak up the sun when it peeks out. [Read more]
L'Auberge du Château de Dampierre-en-Yvelines: a charming hotel facing the castle
The Auberge du Château, a 17thᵉ century house transformed into a charming hotel, is located at the foot of the Château de Dampierre. In this authentic setting, fifteen renovated rooms offer a subtle blend of modern comfort and tradition, all just 35 minutes from Paris, in the heart of the Vallée de Chevreuse. [Read more]
Le Barn Hôtel: a nature getaway from the hustle and bustle of Paris
Located in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional de la Haute Vallée de Chevreuse, the Barn Hôtel invites you to take a break from time and enjoy nature. On the program: bike rides, horseback riding, boating on the pond or simply relaxing in the sun! [Read more]
Discover the Royal Sunday Brunch at Château de Méridon in the Chevreuse Valley
How about a royal brunch at Château de Méridon? Between Cernay la Ville and the Château de Breteuil, you can enjoy a dominival brunch in an exceptional green setting. [Read more]
The Maison du Val's all-you-can-eat brunch in Saint-Germain, Yvelines
Looking for a divine, all-you-can-eat brunch on the terrace that lets you spend a whole day in the countryside, with plenty to do? We'll take you to the Maison du Val in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, France, a haven of peace that's full of treasures. [Read more]
All-you-can-eat brunch at Chez Molly in Versailles, Yvelines
Why not treat yourself to an all-you-can-eat brunch, even on the terrace, with homemade, local produce? Let's head for the Yvelines, to discover the Cour cachée des Senteurs, home to the Chez Molly tea room, where every weekend we can enjoy a gourmet brunch just a stone's throw from the Château de Versailles. [Read more]
Royal all-you-can-eat lobster brunch at Château d'Hardricourt in Yvelines, France
The Château d'Hardricourt, in the Yvelines department, unveils its lobster brunch every Sunday. How about an all-you-can-eat brunch with lobster and champagne, all in the château's magnificent garden? [Read more]
Boulevard Beirut, the right Lebanese restaurant in Poissy, Yvelines (78)
Looking for sunshine on the plate and in the service? Then head for Boulevard Beirut, a lovely surprise nestled between the Collégiale Notre Dame and the old bridge that used to be a landmark of the town of Poissy in the Yvelines department. [Read more]
An exceptional brunch at Château de Villiers-Le-Mahieu in the Yvelines, with all kinds of entertainment
If you'd like to go green and enjoy an exceptional all-you-can-eat brunch without having to go to the ends of the earth, then we invite you to discover Château de Villiers-le-Mahieu in the Yvelines. Part of the Les Maison de Campagne group, this site also offers a whole range of activities included in the package, for a fantastic day out. Golf, boating, cycling, games, cinema and even snacks await you... [Read more]
Cavrosa, Chevreuse's crêperie for local Yvelines products
We'd like to take you on a tour of Crêperie Cavrosa, a lovely place nestled in a natural setting, offering delicious Breton crepes made with local Yvelines produce. [Read more]
La crêperie de Gally, the new gourmet and local address on the Saint-Cyr l'Ecole Farm (78)
Food lovers take note: a few months ago, the Ferme de Gally in Saint-Cyr l'Ecole opened its long-awaited crêperie, with a seasonal menu featuring fresh produce. For lunch or a snack, come and treat yourself at the farm! [Read more]
Exceptional brunch in the Réfectoire des Moines at the Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay by Paris Society
The Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay has reopened, and with it no fewer than 3 restaurants (soon to be 4). One of these is the Hogwarts-style Réfectoire des Moines, offering a brunch that's as gourmet as it is delicious. We take you on a tour of this historic venue with its exceptional offerings. [Read more]
Petit Bouillon Versailles, the affordable bouillon just 2 steps from the Château de Versailles, takes shape
A bouillon (the city's first!) awaits you a stone's throw from the Château de Versailles: Le Petit Bouillon Versailles! We're off to discover it, and reveal what's in store for you in terms of decor and menu. [Read more]
Zoos and aquariums
Thoiry Lumières Sauvages 2025-2026, immerse yourself in the enchanted dance of spirits.
Looking for a magical winter outing? Head to Yvelines to discover the new edition of Thoiry Lumières Sauvages and its mysterious Bal des Esprits. From October 17, 2025, to March 8, 2026, this 8th edition takes us into the world of spirits and Dia de los Muertos celebrations. [Read more]
Thoiry ZooSafari: new features for 2025 to immerse you in the zoo's wildlife
Stroll among the zebras and elephants and enjoy an exceptional moment with family and friends thanks to the ZooSafari de Thoiry tours. On the program for the 2025 season: new activities for young and old alike! [Read more]
La Serre aux Papillons in La Queue-lez-Yvelines, a tropical jungle near Paris
Forty kilometers from Paris, in the Yvelines, nestles an atypical and exciting place for the whole family, a butterfly greenhouse! Located in La Queue-lez-Yvelines, it was the very first tropical greenhouse in France to welcome these colorful and exotic insects, particularly graceful. [Read more]
A mini golf course amid the animals at Thoiry Zoo (78)
Fancy a game of mini-golf at the zoo? Then head to the Thoiry Zoo Safari, better known simply as the "Thoiry Zoo", in the Yvelines region of France, to discover this unique concept with the whole family, from July 8, 2023. [Read more]
Amusement parks and fairgrounds
France Miniature: 2025 program, attractions and new features at the Yvelines family park
If you're dreaming of travelling around France in a day, while entertaining your children with a variety of attractions, then France Miniature is the place for you. Come and take a children's tour of France, near Elancourt in the Yvelines. Scheduled to reopen on Saturday, April 5, 2025. [Read more]
Sports outings
Blocbuster, the family-friendly climbing gym for young and old, in Versailles
Blocbuster is a concept of climbing gyms that already has three in the Ile-de-France region: the first one in La Défense, the second one in Courbevoie and finally, the last one in Versailles, known for being particularly kid-friendly with its children's areas where you can spend the whole day, from 3 years old! [Read more]
HAPIK, the climbing and adventure gym in Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines
Opened in December 2022, HAPIK is the new super fun climbing gym, where you can come and let off steam with your family, your friends for your birthday or your colleagues during a team building session. [Read more]
Parks and gardens
The Aleu park: fishing ponds and country walks in Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines (78)
For a quiet, green, open-air stroll, head for the Parc de l'Aleu in Saint-Arnoult-en-Yvelines! [Read more]
Discover the Versailles-Chèvreloup Arboretum and its Remarkable Garden
The Arboretum de Versailles-Chèvreloup awaits you all year round in its remarkable 200-hectare park! Come and stroll, picnic or play sport in complete freedom amidst 10,000 trees of over 2,500 different varieties. [Read more]
The Museum of Sufi Art and Culture: a spiritual journey in Chatou (78) - our photos
In Chatou, in the Yvelines department, the first museum dedicated to the art and culture of Sufism opens its doors to you to discover this spiritual current of Islam, through a collection of ancient objects and works of art. [Read more]
Le Désert de Retz, the unusual Anglo-Chinese park in Yvelines
One of the most unusual spots in the Paris region is the Desert de Retz, at Chambourcy in the Yvelines. This 18th-century Anglo-Chinese garden is one of the few to have been preserved in its original state. This enchanting place, once frequented by the likes of Marie-Antoinette and Thomas Jefferson, stands out for its fanciful constructions. You'll also enjoy discovering the many remarkable trees that dominate the landscaped area. [Read more]
The Parc du peuple de l'herbe, the largest nature park in the Yvelines, with its flora and fauna
The Parc du Peuple de l'herbe at Carrières-sous-Poissy in the Yvelines region, open all year round, offers a fascinating immersion in nature. This 113-hectare park, the largest in the Yvelines region, is home to an impressive diversity of flora and fauna, providing an ideal setting for nature lovers and families in search of discovery. Insects and flowers abound. [Read more]
Unusual in the Yvelines: the superb waterfall grotto at Parc du Dr Fauvel in Villennes-sur-Seine
Villennes-sur-Seine, a charming commune in the Yvelines department, is home to a little-known treasure: the waterfalls of the Parc Fauvel grotto. Located some 36 kilometers west of Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, this small town near Poissy on the left bank of the Seine boasts a park that combines history and nature. The park, an example of English romanticism, features an unusual grotto and waterfalls. [Read more]
Parc du Château de Plaisir, a green bubble in the heart of Yvelines
On the outskirts of old Plaisir, nestles the Parc du Château de Plaisir and its verdant setting, a veritable corner of nature for strolling, picnicking or playing sport. Classified as a historic monument in 1961, this site has many assets. [Read more]
The Bassin de la Boissière, a bucolic promenade open 24 hours a day in Elancourt (78)
In Elancourt, in the Yvelines department, you'll find a lovely pond: the Etang de la Boissière, where it's great to take a stroll in any season, and even more so in autumn! [Read more]
Parc Corbière, a green paradise for young and old in Le Pecq (78)
In Le Pecq, in the Yvelines département, Parc Corbière is particularly popular with families and children, but also with joggers, walkers and other curious visitors who come to enjoy a trip to the park to get some fresh air. [Read more]
Walk: Parc de la Croix du Bois in Voisins-le-Bretonneux, a hidden gem between nature and history
We're off to Voisins-le-Bretonneux in the Yvelines to discover the astonishing Parc de la Croix du Bois. A park hidden away at the edge of the forest, it conceals Italian-inspired treasures. It's a little-known haven of peace that invites you to stroll and discover. [Read more]
Le Potager du Roi, a historic fruit and vegetable garden near the Château de Versailles
Head to Versailles to discover the Potager du Roi, a production and experimentation site open to the public, which once supplied the King's table at the Château! Here you can find local, natural fruit and vegetables in the open air. [Read more]
The Perfumer's Garden, the garden of the Château de Versailles and the House of Francis Kurkdjian
The park at Versailles is home to a little-known garden: "Le Jardin du Parfumeur". Under the patronage of Francis Kurkdjian, the plot envelops the Trianon estate in an elegant floral fragrance. [Read more]
The Trianon Estate and the Queen's hamlet
The Domaine de Trianon can be visited separately from the Château. Located two kilometers away, it was once a place of refuge for kings, who found rest and relaxation away from the Court. Created by Louis XV, the estate became the fiefdom of Marie-Antoinette, who modified the grounds and created an entire hamlet, like a small village. [Read more]
Current activities
From Paris to Versailles by bike: itinerary for an easy ride on the Véloscénie
Did you know? La Véloscénie, the long-distance cycle path linking Paris to Mont Saint-Michel, provides a link between Paris and Versailles. Let us take you on a 30-kilometre bike ride! [Read more]
Hiking: from l'île des Impressionnistes to Sartrouville, along the long-distance footpath
Follow in the footsteps of the famous Impressionist painters on a stroll along the Seine, from Chatou to Sartrouville, discovering pretty riverbanks and bucolic greenery. [Read more]
Braderie solidaire ADM in Guyancourt, selling new at knock-down prices as well as second-hand goods (78)
In Guyancourt in the Yvelines, near the Place du Marché, you'll find a solidarity store offering new goods for three times less, as well as second-hand goods for even less. From clothes to crockery, household linen and even cellophane, you'll find it all. For 3 months, until June, a second adjacent store is also offering furniture and other large-volume items. Chairs for €5, shelves and other beds still wrapped at bargain prices, how about that? [Read more]
The educational farm at Mantes-la-Jolie (78), a free, rural outing in the Yvelines region
In Mantes-la-Jolie, in the Yvelines département, there's an educational farm hidden away on Ile l'Aumône. Free and open to all, it's a great opportunity to take a stroll and discover the animals! [Read more]
