Is Meaux Worth Visiting? Yes & Here’s Why!

When I first moved to Paris, I opened Google Maps and zoomed in to see every small town within the Île-de-France region. One of the places that stood out and was quickly added to my bucket list of places to visit on a day trip from Paris was Meaux.

Located approximately 45 minutes by train from central Paris, Meaux is the largest town in the Seine-et-Marne department. 

I took a day trip to Meaux from Paris and was genuinely impressed by this underrated little town. Situated along the Marne River, it has a charming Old Town with cobbled streets and a rich history.

Here’s everything you need to know before visiting Meaux, France!

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Is Meaux Worth Visiting?

Unless you live in Paris, you probably heard about Meaux for the first time right before reading this article.

It’s safe to say that Meaux is not one of the most popular places to visit in France.

However, one of my favorite things about living in France is the numerous charming and underrated towns and villages scattered throughout the country. Meaux is one of those hidden gems!

So the short answer is yes, Meaux is worth visiting. If you want to escape the crowds and you’re looking for an easy half-day trip from Paris, I highly suggest taking a train to Meaux.

Meaux is especially charming from spring to autumn, when you can admire the hidden garden behind the cathedral in full bloom. I visited on a sunny winter day and still enjoyed it. 

If you have more than 5 days in Paris, and you already visited all the must-see tourist attractions in the city, it’s 

Reasons You Might Want to Skip Meaux

While Meaux is certainly a charming small French town, it’s not a destination you’d plan an entire trip around.

If it’s your first time visiting France and you’re short on time, I wouldn’t recommend skipping the country’s must-see highlights just to fit in Meaux.

If you’re expecting a picture-perfect fairytale village or a place with many historic monuments, Meaux might not be exactly what you have in mind. Instead, consider visiting Versailles, Provins, or Saint-Germaine.

Best Things To Do In Meaux

Meaux is a small town, but it’s better to go in with a plan. Here are the best activities to add to your Meaux itinerary!

Visit Saint Stephen’s Cathedral Of Meaux

Meaux Cathedral is the main tourist attraction in the city, and I was quite surprised when I saw how big it is, considering that Meaux is a small town. It can easily be compared to some of the more popular cathedrals in France.

Construction began in the 12th century, and you can clearly see the different architectural styles layered over time. The Cathedral is free to visit, so I suggest going inside to see the artwork and stained glass windows. 

See The Art In The Bossuet Museum

Located in the former episcopal palace next to the cathedral, the Bossuet Museum houses a modest but interesting art collection. You’ll find paintings, sculptures, and religious artifacts that reflect Meaux’s long ecclesiastical history. 

It’s not a huge museum, but it’s worth a visit if you enjoy classical art and want to better understand the town’s past. Plus, the historic building itself is beautiful.

Relax In The Bossuet Garden Of Meaux

Behind the museum, you’ll find the elegant Bossuet Garden, a formal French garden designed in the 17th century. With neatly trimmed hedges, symmetrical pathways, and views of the cathedral, it’s the perfect place for a peaceful stroll or short break. 

It was one of my favorite places in the city to sit down and admire, even on a winter day. I bet it’s even nicer in summer, sitting under the trees on a shaded bench and soaking up the quiet atmosphere overlooking the episcopal palace.

Admire Ancient Remparts De Meaux

I have to admit, I didn’t know much about Meaux before visiting, so I was genuinely surprised to discover ramparts dating all the way back to the 3rd century. Originally built during the Gallo-Roman period, the fortifications were expanded in the 15th century, while much of the earlier structure was preserved almost intact.

The walls are currently under renovation, but you can still see them from the outside and imagine how they protected the medieval city center of Meaux.

Visit The Great War Museum

Just outside the town center, the Musée de la Grande Guerre is one of Europe’s largest museums dedicated to World War I. The exhibitions are modern and well-curated, with uniforms, vehicles, weapons, and personal objects that tell powerful stories from the front lines. 

If you’re interested in history, this museum alone can justify a visit to Meaux and easily fill a couple of hours.

Stroll The Streets Of The Historic Center

There aren’t many tourist attractions in Meaux, but the historic center is a lovely place to wander and find your own hidden gems. Cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and small local shops give the town an authentic feel. It’s not flashy or overly polished, which makes it charming in its own way.

Kayak along the Marne River

One of the main reasons to visit Meaux in summer is to kayak along the Marne River. The river is usually quite calm in that area, which makes it perfect for kayaking and canoeing. Seeing Meaux from the water also doubles as a fun, active outing or a romantic experience for couples.

I love kayaking as it allows you to experience a city from a completely different perspective. Keep in mind that it’s only possible to kayak in Meaux during the summer. You can check the rates and availability on the Marin d’eau douce website.

How Much Time Do You Need In Meaux?

Meaux is a really small town, and you can easily visit and see the main tourist attractions on a half-day trip from Paris. 

If you want to get outside of the city center and explore some of the nature spots in the area, you can plan to spend the day.

I don’t think you need to sleep in Meaux unless you’re actively looking to stay in a calm town outside of Paris over the weekend. 

Meaux is also a good base to explore the rest of the region, and it’s a popular weekend getaway for Parisians, especially in the summer when you can kayak down the Marne River.

Where To Stay In Meaux, France?

Spicy – Séjour insolite is probably the most unique place to stay in Meaux. I don’t know about you, but staying on a boat sounds like so much fun to me!

Alternatively, the best-rated options in Meaux are actually Airbnb-style flats, not actual hotels.

Some of my favorites are Le Reve d’Alice and Le Petit Cocon de Kintana. Both are situated in the city center, just a short walk from the train station.

Summary: Should You Visit Meaux, France?

Yes, if you’re looking for an easy day trip from Paris, Meaux is certainly worth visiting. This small French town is a quiet but charming place to visit year-round. 

I loved spending an afternoon in Meaux, wandering the cobbled streets of the historic center, visiting the cathedral, and exploring the hidden gardens behind the old Episcopal Palace. 

As it is just a 45-minute train ride from Paris, I’m sure I’ll be back in Meaux when the weather is nicer to explore the nature and go kayaking down the Marne River.

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