The Vincennes neighbourhood: a guide around the Best Western Saint Louis

The town’s name also carries a history shared by the hotel: it was here that Saint Louis dispensed justice under an oak tree, and today you can visit one of the most beautiful medieval complexes in Europe. From the Best Western Saint Louis, at 2 bis rue Robert Giraudineau, here is how to discover Vincennes and its surroundings, between heritage and nature.

The Château de Vincennes, the city’s emblematic monument

The Château de Vincennes is the main historical landmark of the area. A former royal residence, it reflects several centuries of French history and remains one of the most impressive medieval complexes in Île-de-France today.

Visitors can discover its 52-meter keep, considered the tallest in Europe, its ramparts and its Sainte-Chapelle in flamboyant Gothic style. The site is also associated with Saint Louis, who liked to stay in Vincennes and whose history remains closely linked to the town.

Just a few minutes’ walk from the Best Western Saint Louis, a visit to the château offers a strong cultural start to your stay, without needing to take public transport.

The Bois de Vincennes, a large green space at the gates of Paris

Close to the château, the Bois de Vincennes offers an ideal setting for walking, running, cycling or simply enjoying a quiet moment.

With its paths, meadows and lakes, it is one of the major green spaces in eastern Paris. Lac Daumesnil, especially pleasant on sunny days, is perfect for extending a walk by the water. The Grande Pagode, a more discreet site within the woods, can also be found nearby.

For travelers who want to alternate sightseeing and nature, the Bois de Vincennes is one of the area’s major assets. It is a great place to start the day with a walk or to find a calmer setting after a day spent in Paris.

The Parc Floral de Paris, between gardens and walks

Located within the Bois de Vincennes, the Parc Floral de Paris is a lovely outing to add to a stay in the area. Its gardens, botanical collections and walking paths make it a pleasant stop, especially in spring and summer.

Visitors can discover themed gardens, flowerbeds, children’s play areas and, depending on the season, cultural or musical events.

Easily accessible from Vincennes, the Parc Floral is suitable both for a family outing and for a quieter walk as a couple.

The Paris Zoological Park and the Hippodrome de Paris-Vincennes

The Bois de Vincennes is also home to two major leisure venues.

The Paris Zoological Park, located near Lac Daumesnil, allows visitors to explore different areas dedicated to wildlife and major ecosystems. Its large rock, visible from afar, is one of the landmarks of eastern Paris.

Further south, the Hippodrome de Paris-Vincennes is an important venue for horse racing enthusiasts, especially around major trotting events. It is a different kind of outing, to include depending on the pace and interests of your stay.

These two places make it easy to vary activities around Vincennes, whether as a family, with friends or during a leisure weekend.

Vincennes town center, a village atmosphere near Paris

Vincennes is not only about its château and its woods. The town center is also part of the neighborhood’s charm.

Around rue de Fontenay and the shopping streets, you will find a lively yet residential atmosphere, with cafés, terraces, shops and a market that all contribute to the town’s local spirit.

Also worth discovering is the Church of Saint-Louis de Vincennes, built in the 1920s. Its Art Deco architecture, frescoes and interior decoration make it a more confidential but interesting visit for travelers curious about heritage.

The town center is especially pleasant at the end of the day, whether for dinner, a drink or simply to enjoy an atmosphere calmer than central Paris.

Paris just minutes away from Vincennes

One of Vincennes’ greatest advantages is its direct connection to Paris.

Château de Vincennes station, the terminus of metro line 1, provides easy access to several major districts of the capital: Bastille, Le Marais, the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées and La Défense, without changing lines.

The RER A, from Vincennes station, also makes it possible to quickly reach Châtelet, La Défense and other important hubs in Île-de-France.

This accessibility makes Vincennes a practical base for visiting Paris while staying in a quieter, greener and more residential environment.

Getting around from the Best Western Saint Louis

From the Best Western Saint Louis, the main points of interest in Vincennes are easy to reach.

The Château de Vincennes, the town center and the Bois de Vincennes can be reached on foot in just a few minutes. Metro line 1 and the RER A then allow you to reach Paris quickly, whether for a day of sightseeing, a business meeting or an evening out.

The neighborhood is well suited to walking as well as cycling, especially in the Bois de Vincennes and around the lakes.

FAQ - What to do in Vincennes?

Is Vincennes a good place to stay near Paris?

Yes. Vincennes allows you to stay in a quieter, more residential setting while remaining very well connected to central Paris thanks to metro line 1 and the RER A. It is a good option for combining Paris sightseeing, local heritage and walks in a greener environment.

What can you visit in Vincennes?

The main places to visit in Vincennes are the Château de Vincennes, the Bois de Vincennes, the Parc Floral de Paris, the town center and the Church of Saint-Louis de Vincennes. The Paris Zoological Park and the Hippodrome de Paris-Vincennes are also nearby.

How do you reach Paris from Vincennes?

From Château de Vincennes station, metro line 1 provides direct access to Bastille, the Louvre, the Champs-Élysées and La Défense. The RER A also makes it easy to quickly reach Châtelet and other Paris districts.

Is Vincennes suitable for a family stay?

Yes. Vincennes is suitable for a family stay thanks to the Bois de Vincennes, the Parc Floral, the Paris Zoological Park and the many walking opportunities. The neighborhood offers a calmer setting than central Paris while remaining close to public transport.

Is Vincennes suitable for a business stay?

Yes. Vincennes is a practical option for a business trip. Metro line 1 and the RER A provide quick access to Paris, La Défense and Châtelet. The neighborhood also offers a calmer setting at the end of the day, with the Bois de Vincennes nearby.

Is Vincennes suitable for a couple’s stay?

Yes. Vincennes is well suited to a couple’s stay, with the château, walks in the Bois de Vincennes, dinner in the town center and quick access to Paris. It is a good option for a weekend for two, both peaceful and well connected.

Where to stay in Vincennes to visit Paris?

The Best Western Saint Louis is located in the heart of Vincennes, close to the Château de Vincennes, the Bois de Vincennes, metro line 1 and the RER A. Its location allows you to enjoy the neighborhood while easily reaching Paris.