Chatou

The basics

Chatou sits 9 miles (14 kilometers) from central Paris and is not typically part of a tourist itinerary. Visiting isn’t difficult, however, with a ride on the RER train. Its most-visited attraction is Musée Fournaise on the Ile des Impressionnistes, where Renoir and other Impressionist artists gathered and painted works such as Luncheon of the Boating Party. Other nearby cultural sites include the Musée de la Grenouillère in Croissy, Château de Monte-Cristo in Port-Marly, and Le Musée Ivan Tourgueniev in Bougival.

Things to know before you go

• Chatou is ideal for lovers of Impressionist art history and those looking to escape the crowds of central Paris.
• ATMs, pharmacies, and shops can be found on and around Place Maurice Berteaux near the train station.
• Head toward Avenue du Maréchal Foch to find bakeries and restaurants.

How to get there

Chatou is accessible from Paris via the RER A train line to the Chatou–Croissy station.

When to get there

The museums in Chatou are much smaller than those in Paris with limited opening hours, so check days and times before you go. Musée Fournaise may be closed in April, November, and December.

La Défense

While you’re out exploring the western edge of Paris, stop by the city’s business district, which is the largest in Europe. In addition to the high-rise office towers, the district features dozens of modern art sculptures and installations, as well as the Grande Arche, a cube-shaped contemporary arch with a rooftop viewing deck.

Ways to explore

A small town when the impressionists visited, Chatou is now a suburb of Paris that rarely features on tourist itineraries. However, visiting isn’t difficult, and it can be reached via RER trains. Chatou’s most-visited attraction is the Fournaise Museum (Musée Fournaise) on the Île des Impressionnistes, where Renoir and other artists gathered and painted works such as Luncheon of the Boating Party. A mansion also houses the Musée d’Art et de Culture Soufis MTO, a museum of Sufi art and culture.

Accessibility

The Fournaise Museum is not wheelchair accessible, but the Musée d’Art et de Culture Soufis MTO is.

Age limits

None

What to pack

If art is on your horizon, bring your sketchbook and pastels.

What to wear

As ever in Paris, aim for simple, stylish classics in neutrals and block colors.

Not allowed

By all means, bring a picnic, but never, ever, eat as you walk.

Amenities

The area has many shops, cafés, restaurants, and green spaces.

Address

Chatou sits beside the Seine in the west of Paris, about 7.5 miles (12.5 kilometers) from the Arc de Triomphe. It’s easy to reach via RER trains.

Driving

If you’re brave enough to drive from downtown Paris, take the A14 highway to Nanterre, then pick up the A86 to Chatou Bridge (Pont de Chatou).

Public transportation

The most convenient way to reach Chatou from Paris is by RER A train to Chatou–Croissy station.

Best times to visit

Chatou is a daytime destination. Plan to visit late morning so you can explore a museum, sit down to lunch, and enjoy a walk by the river.

Best days to visit

The Fournaise Museum and the Musée d’Art et de Culture Soufis MTO are closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Midweek is quieter than weekends.

Best months to visit

Summer (June through August) is the time to catch the light, flowers, and glittering water that inspired the impressionists.

Special events

Come in March or late September and early October to catch the Chatou Fair (Foire de Chatou), a lively version of the town’s historic flea market.