Long before rooftops and trendy terraces, Parisians were already fleeing the capital when the sun came out to enjoy a simple, festive way of life: the guinguettes. Set up along the Marne and the Seine, these people’s taverns have over time become genuine symbols of the Île-de-France culture. Between al fresco meals, bal musette and dance-filled afternoons, they have left their mark on generations of families and lovers of the water’s edge.
The story of guinguettes goes back to the 19th century. In those days, workers and Parisian families would hop on the train on Sundays to reach the banks of the Marne. There they’d feast on fritters, sip white wine (the famous “guinguet” that gave its name to the guinguettes), but above all dance to the sound of the accordion. Before long, these venues became staples in the eastern Paris and even inspired great artists like Renoir and Van Gogh.
Among the legendary spots is Chez Gégène in Joinville-le-Pont. Open since 1918, this Marne riverbank institution has long been the region’s most famous guinguette. With its musette dances, Vichy-style tablecloths, and its classic moules-frites, it embodies the spirit of guinguettes of yesteryear. The venue has even hosted numerous personalities from French cinema over the decades.
Another iconic address, the Guinguette Auvergnate in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges. Located on the banks of the Seine, it keeps alive the tradition of dance lunches and musical evenings in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Its terrace with waterfront views still attracts fans of traditional cuisine and musette dancing.
In Champigny-sur-Marne, the Guinguette de l’Île du Martin-Pêcheur also ranks among the must-visit spots. Set on a island in the Marne in a lush setting, this guinguette blends concerts, festive meals and the guincheur spirit in a pastoral, riverside atmosphere typical of the riverbanks.
After a sharp decline in the 1960s, notably due to the ban on swimming in the Marne, guinguettes are today enjoying a genuine revival. Historic venues are being revived while new summer and ephemeral spots are winning over a new generation of visitors in search of authenticity and conviviality!
La Guinguette des Maquereaux, the marine spot in Nogent-sur Marne
In Nogent-sur-Marne, the Maquereaux family have opened their second address, the Guinguette des Maquereaux, and we're looking forward to enjoying it until the end of the summer! [Read more]
The riverside guinguette at La Pointe Sauvage on the banks of the Marne in Seine-et-Marne has opened its doors.
La guinguette of La Pointe Sauvage lands on the banks of the Marne in Vaires-sur-Marne, Seine-et-Marne, for a summer season that looks set to be convivial. Concerts, grilled fare, crepes and good spirits are on the menu from May 6 to September 2026 (and maybe beyond if the vibes—and the weather—cooperate). [Read more]
The DalMago guinguette, a friendly, festive spot on the banks of the Marne, at La Ferté-sous-Jouarre (77).
Located on the banks of the Marne in La Ferté-sous-Jouarre, the DalMago guinguette offers a festive, gourmet menu in fine weather. [Read more]
Guinguettes in Paris and Île-de-France in 2026, our best spots for an apéro
When the sun makes its return, temporary riverside bars bloom across Paris and Île-de-France, inviting locals to unwind without leaving the area. Between lounging in deckchairs, outdoor happy hours, and lakeside concerts, they deliver a holiday vibe right in the heart of the region! [Read more]
Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, please drink responsibly.
Guinguettes in Paris and Île-de-France in 2026, our best spots for an apéro
