You live in the Yvelines or feel like escaping the capital without going too far? Our editors point you toward the standout outing ideas that could brighten your weekend in the 78, the most populous department in the outer ring of Paris, by the way. So we’re firing up the Navigo pass, or simply stepping out for a relaxed stay close to home. This weekend from May 1–3 2026, there’s plenty to enjoy!
It’s no surprise that Yvelines, with its 262 communes and covering approximately 2,284 km², is a standout department in Île-de-France. Whether you're strolling through forests and trails, exploring historic castles, or attending the numerous events on offer, there's never a dull moment. To help you navigate this wealth of options, we've picked out 10 great outings specifically for this weekend.
Yvelines flea markets and garage sales this weekend, April 25–26, 2026, in the 78.
Discover the flea markets and garage sales program in the Yvelines on April 25 and 26, 2026. From Crespières to Le Pecq, via La Queue-les-Yvelines and Rambouillet, we’re off to explore the events in the 78. [Read more]
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. [Read more]
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. [Read more]
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. [Read more]
Easter holidays 2026: treat your family to a stay in an exceptional château
During the Easter holidays in 2026, we’re heading to the castle—yes, the magnificent Château de Breteuil—to soak up the sights and have fun with the whole family. [Read more]
Espace Rambouillet: a forest and wildlife park to reconnect with nature
Sponsored - Nestled within 250 hectares of forest, explore a one-of-a-kind site in Île-de-France dedicated to European wildlife—animals that are currently found in France or once part of its fauna: red deer, fallow deer, roe deer, wolves... You’ll also discover its bird-of-prey center, home to more than 200 raptors with live flying demonstrations. Don’t miss the 1,500-square-meter of giant trampolines suspended among the trees, or the Forest Mission playground. An offering sure to delight families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to reconnect with what truly matters: the living world. [Read more]
Guided tours of Clairefontaine: Step behind the scenes of French football – our photos
Starting March 28, 2026, the National Football Center of Clairefontaine will open its doors to the public for a special visit. During immersive guided tours, football enthusiasts will get a behind-the-scenes look at the preparation of the French national team—from the legendary Château to the training grounds nestled in the heart of the Rambouillet Forest. [Read more]
Thousands of tulips at the Château de Dampierre in Yvelines, captured in photos and video! Events planned.
In the Yvelines, the Domaine de Dampierre opens its Printanières from late March to early May 2026. Thousands of tulips, a Tulip Day, and a Plant Festival are on the agenda for spring 2026—the full story, plus the photos and video from our on-site visit, are revealed to you. [Read more]
France Miniature celebrates its 35th anniversary and unveils the behind‑the‑scenes of its models, its program, and its new features.
France Miniature, in the Île-de-France region and especially in Élancourt (Yvelines), is celebrating its 35th anniversary with a birthday season packed with activities, including a brand-new exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the park for the 2026 season and free entry for anyone turning 35 themselves. Discover this year’s program! [Read more]
Zoo Safari de Thoiry: what's new?
The Thoiry ZooSafari continues to innovate, and it's not over yet, with major projects in the pipeline for the next few years. Between the new lodges, the light trail, the green vehicle safaris, the new arrivals and the births, the Thoiry Zoo has some great discoveries in store for us. [Read more]
This town in Yvelines represents Île-de-France at the "Favorite Village of the French 2026" contest!
Nestled in the Chevreuse Valley, just about 40 kilometers from Paris, Dampierre-en-Yvelines is representing Île-de-France in the 2026 edition of France’s Favorite Village competition. Voting remains open until March 6, 2026. [Read more]
Where to spot stunning rhododendrons and azaleas in Paris and the Île-de-France region this spring 2026?
Calling all flower fans: after the cherry trees and wisteria, the lush season of azaleas and rhododendrons has arrived, bursting into a riot of blooms. Want to see them in every hue? Here are the spots in Paris and Île-de-France that delight both enthusiasts and photographers in search of a splash of color. [Read more]
Yvelines: Which cities top the list for the best places to live in 2026?
The 2026 rankings of the best cities and towns to live in have just been announced. Versailles, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Sartrouville — which municipalities in the Yvelines stand out in this national chart, based on 197 quality of life criteria? Here’s what you need to know. [Read more]
Where to stay in Yvelines? Hotels, bed and breakfasts, and campsites in the 78 department.
The Yvelines, with its lush green landscapes and rich heritage, offers the ideal break just a few kilometers from Paris. Whether you're looking for a bucolic setting, a warm atmosphere or immersion in the heart of nature, there are several options available to visitors in search of escape. [Read more]
Where to have a good brunch in the Yvelines? Our top picks in the 78
Whether you live in the Yvelines or are just passing through, discover our top brunch spots in the 78. [Read more]
Where to have a good brunch in Versailles in the Yvelines? Our top picks in the 78
Looking for a good brunch in Versailles? Discover our top picks in the royal city of Yvelines, including artisan coffee shops, all-you-can-eat options, and family-friendly spots! [Read more]
Where to dine in Yvelines? Top restaurant picks in the 78, tried and trusted
There's no shortage of good places to eat in the Yvelines. If you'd like to discover the best restaurants in the 78 department, here we go! [Read more]
What to do in Yvelines (78)? Heritage, good addresses and activities, ideas for outings
Want to get to know Paris Region better? This time, we're taking you to the Yvelines to discover its heritage, places to visit, must-do activities and the best deals of the moment. From castles to walks and good addresses, here's what's in store for you in the 78 département. [Read more]
Glorious Escape Game in Vélizy: the go-to spot for a fun outing with friends or family in Yvelines
Glorious Escape Game, located in Vélizy-Villacoublay (Yvelines), offers 9 escape rooms: The Emperor's Heritage, Django, Asylum, Lost, The Stone of Anubis, The Haunted House, The Walking Dead, The Relics of Death, and Pirate: The Amulet of Eternal Life. [Read more]
The most beautiful villages in the Yvelines, 7 must-see nuggets
Looking for a change of scenery less than an hour from Paris? The Yvelines (78) region is brimming with charming villages full of character. From Rochefort-en-Yvelines to Montfort l'Amaury, discover 7 Yvelines nuggets combining historic heritage and bucolic surroundings, all year round. [Read more]
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. [Read more]
Enjoy your weekend in the Yvelines!
Dates and Opening Time
From May 1, 2026 to May 3, 2026
Recommended age
For all
