Nanterre travel guide

Nanterre, a vibrant suburb located just west of Paris, boasts a rich and diverse history dating back to antiquity. The area was originally settled by the Parisii tribe before becoming a significant Roman settlement. According to legend, it is also the birthplace of Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of Paris, in the 5th century.

During the Middle Ages, Nanterre's strategic location made it a vital agricultural hub, supplying Paris with essential produce. The town played a crucial role in several historical events, including the Hundred Years' War and the French Revolution.

In the 19th century, Nanterre began to industrialize, attracting a workforce that contributed to its rapid growth and urbanization. The 20th century saw further development, with the establishment of the University of Paris Nanterre in 1964, a key player in the 1968 student protests that reshaped French society.

Today, Nanterre is a dynamic blend of historical landmarks, such as the Saint Genevieve Church, and modern architecture, reflecting its ongoing evolution. Exploring Nanterre offers a unique glimpse into the history that has shaped this fascinating suburb.

Nanterre, a vibrant suburb of Paris, offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern dynamism that reflects its rich cultural tapestry. The town celebrates both its Gallo-Roman heritage and its role in contemporary French society. Visitors will notice that the locals take pride in their city's history, which is evident in the well-preserved landmarks and the enthusiastic local guides who bring the past to life.

Respect for personal space and polite greetings are essential in Nanterre. A simple 'Bonjour' when entering shops or starting a conversation goes a long way. Dining customs adhere to typical French etiquette, with meals often being leisurely and social affairs. It’s customary to say 'Bon appétit' before beginning to eat and to keep your hands above the table.

Local markets, such as the Marché de Nanterre, are bustling centers of daily life where you can experience the local lifestyle. Here, haggling is not common, so it’s best to accept the prices as they are. Remember to bring your own reusable bags as sustainability is a valued practice.

Lastly, Nanterre's cultural scene is lively, with numerous festivals, theatre productions, and art exhibitions. Participating in these events can provide deeper insights into local customs and contemporary artistic expressions. Always check the event schedules and be prepared to engage in casual yet respectful conversations with locals, as they are often eager to share the spirit of their community.

The best time to explore Nanterre is during the late spring and early autumn months, specifically from May to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is pleasantly mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Summer months of July and August can be warm, with temperatures occasionally reaching up to 30°C (86°F), but they are also the peak tourist season, resulting in higher crowd levels and potentially long lines at popular attractions.

Spring, especially May, is an excellent time due to the blooming flowers and vibrant greenery, enhancing the beauty of Nanterre's parks and open spaces. Additionally, the early autumn months bring a lovely transition of foliage, creating picturesque landscapes perfect for leisurely walks and photography.

Special events such as the annual Nanterre Jazz Festival in October can provide a unique cultural experience, drawing music enthusiasts from various regions. Planning a visit around these events can enrich your travel experience. For a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, aim for the shoulder seasons, which also offer the advantage of more affordable accommodation rates. Ultimately, the best time to explore Nanterre depends on your preference for weather, crowd levels, and interest in local events.

When visiting Nanterre, a unique insider tip is to explore the local markets, particularly the Marché du Centre. This lively market offers a genuine slice of daily French life that many tourists overlook. Open every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday morning, it brims with fresh produce, artisan cheeses, and regional specialties. Engage with the friendly vendors who are always eager to share cooking tips and samples of their goods.

Another local gem is Parc André Malraux, a serene green space perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. While most visitors flock to the more famous parks in Paris, this beautiful haven in Nanterre provides a tranquil escape with less crowding. You might even catch a local music performance or an outdoor movie screening during the summer months.

By incorporating these local experiences into your itinerary, you’ll gain a richer and more authentic appreciation of Nanterre’s vibrant community and culture.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Nanterre, France. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Nanterre, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to France. Check out the best things to do in Nanterre. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of stays and 3 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Nanterre with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Nanterre from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Nanterre with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Nanterre travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Nanterre!

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Expect an exhilarating journey through Nanterre, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Nanterre offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Nanterre travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the town so special.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Nanterre is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Nanterre usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Nanterre offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Nanterre and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Nanterre planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Nanterre, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in France can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Nanterre. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Nanterre.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Nanterre in the following sections.

To navigate Nanterre effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 3 car rental companies in Nanterre, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Nanterre start at 29 EUR per day or 206 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Peugeot 208. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Nanterre, starting at 26 EUR per day or 182 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Nanterre, France below.

The town of Nanterre is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in France. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that France has it all.

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Nanterre boasts a well-developed transportation network, ensuring easy access to and from the city. The RER A line is a key component, connecting Nanterre to central Paris and other suburbs, with stations such as Nanterre-Préfecture and Nanterre-Université offering frequent services. Additionally, the city is served by several bus routes, making it convenient to navigate within Nanterre and reach neighboring areas.

For those preferring a more flexible mode of transport, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. Rental cars are also a viable option, with numerous rental agencies providing vehicles for exploring the wider Île-de-France region.

Cycling enthusiasts will appreciate the city's commitment to sustainable transport, with dedicated bike lanes and a bike-sharing system, Vélib', offering an eco-friendly way to explore. Whether utilizing public transit, biking, or renting a car, getting around Nanterre is straightforward and efficient, catering to a variety of travel preferences.