Stopover Sightseeing: What to See and Do in the Grand Roissy Area 

Found yourself with a long layover at Paris Charles de Gaulle? Booked an overnight stay near the airport to catch an early flight? Don’t let that time go to waste and take the chance to explore Grand Roissy!  

Long stopovers at airports can be dull affairs. With airport areas being far from the bustling cities they serve or hotel areas being just that and nothing else, travellers can feel a little let down. Just outside Paris’ Charles de Gaulle airport however, lies the Grand Roissy area which is bursting with interesting museums, fascinating heritage sites and fun activities for the whole family. The area boasts a wealth of cultural and recreational attractions, from historic castles to fascinating museums, and is easy to reach thanks to a summer shuttle service.

The Grand Roissy Tourist Office has just reimagined its city tours offer thanks to an electric bus that will shuttle you to the sites you can’t miss in the area. Simply step off your plane or out of your hotel lobby, hop on the bus and be whisked away on a whirlwind tour of Grand Roissy. This summer, five routes take passengers to 10 intriguing destinations. In the week, select the tour you want to go on and on weekends, just sit back and enjoy the ride with the single tour on offer then. 

Culture connections 

For a dose of culture, why not visit the National Museum of the Renaissance housed in the beautiful Castle of Ecouen. Enjoy a remarkable collection of artwork, tapestries, and furniture and step back in time to that captivating and illuminating period.  

Escape the hustle and bustle of modern life with a visit to the serene Royaumont Abbey. This former Cistercian abbey is nestled amidst picturesque gardens and offers a peaceful retreat. Explore the abbey’s stunning architecture, wander through the lush grounds, and attend one of the concerts or cultural events that often take place here.  

Continue your journey into the past by visiting the enchanting Château de Chantilly. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and a tranquil lake, this architectural gem houses an extensive art collection, including masterpieces by Raphael, Delacroix, and Botticelli. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the vast Chantilly Estate, which encompasses a racecourse, a delightful English garden, and the Great Stables, home to the Horse Museum. 

Heritage halts 

For those interested in archaeology and local history, the ARCHÉA Museum in Louvres (the town not the Paris museum) is a must-visit. This modern museum showcases the rich heritage of the region, with exhibits on prehistoric times, Gallo-Roman civilization, and medieval life. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations bring the past to life, making it an engaging experience for all ages.  

Delve into the poignant history of World War I at the Great War Museum in Meaux. Discover a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that provide a deep understanding of the war’s impact on the region and its people.  

Unleash your inner aviation enthusiast at the Air and Space Museum in Le Bourget, located just a short distance from Roissy. This renowned museum showcases a remarkable collection of aircraft, including historic planes like the iconic Concorde and the first plane to cross the English Channel. Engage with interactive exhibits, witness awe-inspiring displays, and learn about the milestones of aviation history. 

Family fun 

If you’re looking for relaxation or some outdoor fun, the Grand Roissy area has plenty to offer. Visit the Plaine Oxygène aquatic complex at Le Mesnil-Amelot, where you can enjoy swimming pools, water slides, and wellness facilities.  

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the International Golf of Roissy, a world-class course that provides a perfect retreat for a few hours of golfing pleasure.  

Round off your visit with some retail therapy at the Aéroville Shopping Centre. And if you have the time, why not see Paris by boat with a cruise on the Seine with Bateaux Parisiens.