Just an hour east of Paris, Seine-et-Marne hides many cultural and architectural nuggets. This heritage-rich département is brimming with well-preserved medieval towns andimmense châteaux, from the most classic to the most enchanting. Whether you're looking for a cultural outing, a breath of fresh air in a green setting or family fun on the merry-go-rounds, you're sure to find what you're looking for. To help you plan your visit to Seine-et-Marne, take a look at our 13 must-sees.
1- Disneyland Paris
For an exceptional family holiday, don't hesitate to visit Disneyland Paris. The famous American mouse first set foot in Marne-la-Vallée in 1992, and has been expanding its domain ever since. Take advantage of the many attractions now spread over two parks: the classic Disneyland with the must-see Star Wars: HyperSpace Mountain or Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Walt Disney Studios park featuring the Marvel, Pixar and soon The Snow Queen universes. Don't miss our 15 tips for your first visit to Disneyland Paris.
The activity to book : for your visit to Disneyland Paris, book your 1-day tickets now by clicking on this link.
2- Visit Fontainebleau and its château
Located 60km southeast of Paris, Fontainebleau is a destination famous for its château and its many green spaces. Explore this sumptuous monument, whose construction dates back to the 12th century, and discover its theater, Marie-Antoinette's Turkish boudoir and the Musée Napoléon. Don't miss a stroll through the magnificent French gardens. For a breath of fresh air, take a walk in the Fontainebleau forest, which surrounds the town and its château. Here you'll find numerous hiking trails and climbing spots. The town has much more to offer, so be sure to check out our article on must-do things to do in Fontainebleau.
Good to know: book your Paris Museum Pass here and enjoy free admission to over 60 museums and monuments, including the Château de Fontainebleau.
3- Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
"Envied by Louix XIV, never equalled". This is the motto of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, which is said to have served as anexample for the creation of the Château de Versailles. Imagined by Louis Fouquet, the château took shape in the 17th century, created by three great artists of the time: gardener André Le Nôtre, architect Louis Le Vau and painter-decorator Charles Le Brun. While visiting Seine-et-Marne, discover its impressive historical heritage and be sure to visit the parks and gardens adjoining the château.
Activities to book: book this day trip from Paris to visit the châteaux of Vaux-le-Vicomte and Fontainebleau here .
4- Go to Barbizon
This is a perfect destination for getting closer to nature when you live in Paris. Less than an hour from the capital, the discreet but charming commune of Barbizon has seen many great artists and Impressionists settle here. Among them: Théodore Rousseau, Monet, Cézanne and Pissarro. This picturesque village boasts numerous museums and workshops. Today, it's one of the department's top tourist destinations.
5- Visit the medieval town of Provins
It may be hard to imagine a medieval village in the Paris region, but a visit to Provins will make you believe it. With its 58 historic monuments, the town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Provins is now one of France's most beautiful medieval villages, so if you're visiting Seine-et-Marne, be sure to take a stroll through its historic streets. Time travel guaranteed!
The article to read : discover our article on the 13 must-sees in Provins.
6- What to do in Seine-et-Marne? Go to Crécy-la-Chapelle
The pretty village of Crécy-la-Chapelle is less well known, but well worth a visit. Its green settings on either side of the Grand Morin and its river branches have earned it the well-deserved nickname of"Petite Venise Briarde". Its bucolic landscapes have been visited by painters such as Van Gogh and Toulouse-Lautrec. Take a stroll through this small town of character and follow in the footsteps of the great artists who have passed through here.
7- Meaux
If you're in Paris and looking for a place to visit within an hour's transport from the capital, don't hesitate to visit Meaux. This ancient Gallic capital is now classified as a Ville d'Art et d'Histoire. Its rich historical heritage makes Meaux a town that harmoniously blends its past and present. A must-see is the Cité Épiscopale. This architectural ensemble comprises the Cathedral, the Palais des Évêques, the Vieux Chapitre and the Jardin Bossuet.
8- See the Château de Champs-sur-Marne
Don't hesitate to take a tour of the commune of Champs-sur-Marne, with its interesting heritage. The château dates back to the 18th century and originally belonged to Paul Poisson de Bourvallais, a financier under Louis XIV. Purchased by the Princesse de Conti in 1718, it was later occupied by the Marquise de Pompadour, who made a number of alterations that can still be seen today. Bequeathed to the State in 1935, the château became the residence of numerous foreign heads of state visiting France. It boasts a prestigious collection of furniture and elegant formal gardens.
The article to read: if you're looking for weekend ideas less than 2 hours from Paris, check out our article dedicated to the best destinations.
9- Go hiking
Take advantage of Seine-et-Marne's vast green spaces to get a breath of fresh air less than an hour from Paris. It's possible to find some great outdoor walks around the capital. However, the department is a sure bet for forest walks, thanks in particular to the Domaine de Fontainebleau. Its 25,000-hectare forest is criss-crossed by numerous hiking trails. You'll find something to suit every level of hiker, from family strolls to more athletic strolls.
The article to read : for more details, read our articleon the 11 best walks in Fontainebleau.
10- Visit Thomery
The small village of Thomery is a beautiful green setting. From the 16th century onwards, vines were planted here on trellises. Grapes for the nobles and bourgeois of Paris were transported by river. The narrow streets leading from the winery to the river still bear witness to this commercial activity. In this charming village, you'll find the Château de By, which was the studio and residence of Rosa Bonheur in the 19th century. This famous wildlife painter was the first woman to buy her own property as a result of her work.
11- Go to Blandy-les-Tours
Not far from Melun, this small village takes visitors back in time. Discover thefeudal Château de Blandy-les-Tours and land directly in the 13th century. Although the château had been reduced to ruins, the département decided to restore it in 1992. The gamble paid off. Stroll around the site and admire the ramparts, dungeons and covered walkway. Throughout the year, take advantage of the many events on offer. Every Sunday, you'll find theater, music and circus performances.
12- Canoeing and kayaking
With its 330km of waterways, Seine-et-Marne offers many opportunities to observe nature from rivers and canals. In particular, you can hire canoes and kayaks to navigate the Grand Morin river. This trip will take you through the canals of Venise Briarde, Crécy-la-Chapelle. Some itineraries take you through the gardens of the Moulin Jaune, one of the most astonishing places in the Paris region. This garden-theater is an artists' residence offering themed gardens, exhibitions and shows.
The activity to book: if you'd rather take to the air than the water, don't hesitate to book a first flight in a microlight in Meaux.
13- What to do in Seine-et-Marne? Visit Nemours
Built on the banks of the River Loing, Nemours is a charming little village in the Seine-et-Marne region. Visit the Château-musée, founded in the 12th century, before moving on to theÉglise Saint-Jean-Baptiste. After admiring this Gothic edifice, take time to stroll through the village's narrow streets. You'll see some lovely half-timbered houses dating from the 15th and 18th centuries. Don't miss a visit to the Musée de la Préhistoire d'Île-de-France. Nestled in an oasis of greenery, it hosts a number of fun and interactive exhibits.
What can you do in Seine-et-Marne for free?
You can also enjoy the landscapes and heritage of Seine-et-Marne without spending a cent. Here are just a few of the things you can do for free:
- Hiking in the Forêt de Fontainebleau: ideal for nature walks, you'll also find climbing spots here.
- Discover the medieval town of Provins : immerse yourself in the history of the département in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Visit the French Gâtinais : discover the hiking trails of this regional nature park and enjoy the country air.
What to do in Seine-et-Marne with children?
Here are a few suggestions for things to do with children in Seine-et-Marne:
- A day at Disneyland Paris : enjoy your children's favorite Disney attractions, shows and characters. You can even stay overnight.
- Take a stroll in the Forêt de Fontainebleau : ideal for a day of games, picnics and walks in the great outdoors.
- Visit the Bergerie Nationale educational farm: introduce your children to farm animals and take part in educational workshops.
- Discover the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte : explore the formal gardens and take part in activities that will delight young and old alike.
What are the most beautiful villages in Seine-et-Marne?
The department abounds in charming villages, and we've put together a small selection for you:
- Provins : this medieval town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, takes you back in time with its ramparts, towers and cobbled streets.
- Crécy-la-Chapelle: nicknamed the"Venice of Brie", this commune offers an idyllic setting between its bridges and canals.
- Barbizon : famous for attracting numerous painters in the 19th century, this commune is a veritable open-air museum.
- Ferrières-en-Brie : famous for its château and park, this village is ideal for a family stroll or a cultural visit.
