One of the most populous suburbs in Paris, Montreuil is a stylish area north of the Bois de Vincennes. It was originally known as “Monasteriolum”, which translates from Medieval Latin as “little monastery” and reflects the commune’s origins. Montreuil is famed for its “peach walls”, which once provided the royal court with fruit.
Things to do in Montreuil
If you love a bargain, don’t miss the Puces de Montreuil, a lively flea market that takes place twice a week on Avenue du Professeur Andre Lemierre. In addition to vintage clothing and antiques, you’ll find an eclectic array of bric-a-brac. Just north of the Avenue is Parc Departemental Jean-Moulin-Les Guilands with its paved walking trails and interpretive garden.
On the other side of Montreuil is Parc des Beaumonts, which occupies the former site of a gypsum quarry. It was a source of plaster used to create the town’s famous “peach walls”, with only a handful of these productive walled gardens surviving today. The grassy slopes of Parc des Beaumonts offer magnificent views across the city skyline of Paris while its woodlands provide important habitat for birdlife.
Montreuil makes an excellent base for visiting the Château De Vincennes, a fortified royal residence that dates back to the 14th century. It boasts the tallest keep in Europe, from where you can enjoy elevated views across the Bois de Vincennes. Don’t miss a visit to the Flamboyant Gothic-style Sainte-Chapelle, which is renowned for its Renaissance stained-glass windows.
Getting around Montreuil
Montreuil is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Paris and 25 minutes from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Subway services connect to the Robespierre, Croix de Chavaux and Mairie de Montreuil stations while buses also travel throughout the commune.