Renowned for its 14th-century castle, Vincennes lies east of Paris, alongside one of the city’s largest green spaces. From 1740 to 1756, it was the site of a porcelain manufactory that went on to become a European leader as the world-renowned Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres.
Things to do in Vincennes
Vincennes’ most famous architectural landmark is the Château de Vincennes, a 14th-century fortress that was once home to French kings and queens. From the 16th to 19th centuries, it served as a prison before becoming a military barracks. Marvel at the Flamboyant Gothic architecture of its soaring keep and admire the stained glass windows within the Sainte-Chapelle.
Sprawling south of the Château de Vincennes is the Bois de Vincennes, a former hunting preserve created by Emperor Napoleon III in the mid-19th century. It encompasses four man-made lakes and the Parc Floral de Paris, which boasts a sculptural garden featuring works by Alexander Calder and Alberto Giacometti. Also of note is the Arboretum de l’Ecole du Breuil with its collection of around 2,000 trees.
Within the Bois de Vincennes is Paris Zoological Park, which originally opened to the public in 1934. It’s now home to more than 3,000 animals representing 255 animal species, including giraffes, lions and West Indian manatees. Feeding sessions and veterinary demonstrations are regularly held and there’s the opportunity to go behind-the-scenes as a keeper for the day.
Getting around Vincennes
Vincennes is around 20 minutes’ drive from the centre of Paris and 30 minutes from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Trains connect to the Vincennes railway station, while subway services stop at the Château de Vincennes. Buses are also available for getting around Vincennes.