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Aulnay-Sous-Bois

Attractions and Places To See around Aulnay-Sous-Bois - Top 20

Attractions and places to see around Aulnay-Sous-Bois include a blend of historical landmarks, expansive natural features, and cultural sites in this dynamic suburb on the northeastern outskirts of Paris. The area is recognized for its numerous green spaces, offering diverse natural habitats and opportunities for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore historical architecture, significant parks, and cultural venues that reflect the region's past and present.

Best attractions and places to see around Aulnay-Sous-Bois

  • The most popular attractions is Vincennes Castle, a castle that served as a royal residence between the 12th and 17th centuries. Its nearly 50-meter-high keep makes it one of the tallest fortresses in Europe.
  • Another must-see spot is Canal de L'ourcq, a trail and cycle way. The cycle path along the canal offers a pleasant route, often separated from walking paths and passing through green surroundings.
  • Visitors also love In the shade of the Canal de l'Ourcq, a section of the canal offering a shaded route. This part of the canal provides an easy escape from Paris by bike, though it can get busy during peak times.
  • Aulnay-Sous-Bois is known for its historical sites, extensive parks, and waterways. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient castles to modern green infrastructure.
  • The attractions around Aulnay-Sous-Bois are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 highlights featuring 64 photos and receiving more than 900 upvotes.

Last updated: May 5, 2026

Vincennes Castle

Highlight • Castle

The Château de Vincennes impresses with its size. The building itself is not gigantic but the whole complex covers a large area. It has a very long history and sits at the gates of one of the most beautiful parks around Paris. To know: it is one of the crossing points of the Paris marathon!

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Canal de L'ourcq

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The cycle path along the canal is - especially in the beginning - very pleasant and beautiful for cycling. In principle, the cycling and walking parts are separated. There was also a fair amount of recreational traffic on a weekday. Part of the cycle path runs through a park. As you approach Paris, the cycle path occasionally also crosses industrial estates, sometimes resulting in a short section on cobblestones. You keep following the canal, switching banks a few more times (it actually shows itself) until you reach the outskirts of Paris. Before you know it, the cycle path ends at Avenue Jaurès next to a metro station and a brasserie.

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In the shade of the Canal de l'Ourcq

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A "royal road" for an easy and pleasant escape from Paris by bike

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Moulin footbridge

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Charming footbridge in a shared pedestrian / cyclist space which passes over the Marne.

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Canal de L'Ourcq

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Waterways of the Seine basin. The Ourcq and the Ourcq canal are to the north-east of Paris.

Along the forest park of Sevran, a trench had to be dug to pass the canal.
Before starting at Mareuil-sur-Ourcq to join the Villette basin in Paris, the Ourcq river is canalized and navigable from the “Port aux Perches” in the town of Silly-la-Poterie.

With the Canal Saint-Denis, the Bassin de la Villette and the Canal Saint-Martin, it constitutes the network of Parisian canals, 130 km long and belonging to the city of Paris. Its construction began in 1802 and was completed in 1825. It was subsequently subject to several changes including the addition of five locks, a factory supplying the water to the canal at Trilbardou and the widening of the gauge on the first eleven kilometers.

Originally, the main objective of the canal was to supply Paris with drinking water; today, its use is reserved for roads. Until the 1960s, it was traversed over its entire length by the Ourcq flutes, barges adapted to the small size of most of the canal. Since 1962, only the first eleven kilometers, between the basin of Villette and Aulnay-sous-Bois, free of locks, have been open to commercial traffic: approximately one million tonnes are transported each year by barges, the deadweight of which are cannot exceed 400 tonnes. Beyond that, the canal, whose depth is now 80 cm, is intended for yachting. The Ourcq canal has also been used since its creation to supply the Saint-Martin and Saint-Denis canals with water. Since the end of the 1990s, the surroundings of the canal located in the Parisian agglomeration have been rehabilitated and developed to make it a green axis open to leisure activities such as cycle tourism and hiking.

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Tips from the Community

Alice Rabot
July 22, 2025, Canal de L’Ourcq

Quite busy in the morning, especially on weekends

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Water point available in the mill park

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Part of the Team Rynkeby Berlin tour in 2024. Unfortunately solo on this particular day.

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Ourcq Canal

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Located at the gates of Paris, the Château de Vincennes is a must-see in French history. Its nearly 50-meter-high keep makes it one of the tallest fortresses in Europe. The château served as a royal residence between the 12th and 17th centuries. Find all the information on accessing the château here: https://parisjetaime.com/billets/chateau-de-vincennes-m9000599.

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A quiet cycle path, follow the canal

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Superb view of the ruins, Marne

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This part of the Canal is very pleasant to ride, especially in summer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical landmarks can I explore in Aulnay-sous-Bois?

Aulnay-sous-Bois offers several historical sites. The 12th-century Church of Saint-Sulpice is a remarkable example of Romanesque architecture. You can also visit the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) with its distinctive campanile, and the Ferme du Vieux-Pays, which provides a glimpse into the area's agricultural past. For a grander historical experience, the impressive Vincennes Castle, a former royal residence, is easily accessible nearby.

Where can I find green spaces and parks in Aulnay-sous-Bois?

The region is rich in green spaces. The Le Sausset Departmental Park is a vast Natura 2000 site with diverse habitats and Savigny Pond, perfect for walks and picnics. Robert Park Ballanger, known as the city's 'green lung,' offers jogging trails, picnic areas, and even a farm with animals. Other notable parks include Parc Gainville (also known as Parc des Cygnes) and Parc Émile Zola.

Are there any unique cultural attractions in the area?

Yes, for car enthusiasts, the Conservatoire André Citroën houses the world's largest collection of Citroën vehicles. The Vieux Pays district, centered around the Church of Saint-Sulpice, is a culturally rich area. You can also admire the monumental street art fresco 'Le Canal' by Evelyne Quemeraye, depicting the region's industrial past.

What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?

Aulnay-sous-Bois and its surroundings are excellent for outdoor activities. The Canal de L'ourcq and its banks are ideal for cycling and hiking, forming part of a 130 km network of Parisian canals. You can find various routes for hiking, road cycling, and general cycling, many of which pass through the beautiful parks and along the canal.

Are there family-friendly attractions around Aulnay-sous-Bois?

Absolutely. Many parks, such as Robert Park Ballanger, feature farm animals and ample space for children to play. The Vincennes Castle is also considered family-friendly, offering an engaging historical experience. The cycle paths along the Canal de L'ourcq are generally safe and pleasant for family bike rides.

What are the best places for walking or jogging?

For walking and jogging, Le Sausset Departmental Park offers extensive trails through diverse natural habitats. Robert Park Ballanger is another excellent choice with dedicated jogging paths. The banks of the Canal de L'ourcq also provide a pleasant, flat surface for leisurely strolls or runs, often shaded by trees.

Can I cycle along the Canal de l'Ourcq?

Yes, the Canal de L'ourcq offers a very pleasant cycle path, often separated from walking paths and passing through green surroundings. A particularly enjoyable section is In the shade of the Canal de l'Ourcq, which provides an easy escape from Paris by bike. Be aware that it can get busy during peak times.

Are there any viewpoints with scenic views?

Yes, from the gazebo in Robert Park Ballanger, you can enjoy views of iconic Parisian monuments like the Sacré-Cœur and the Eiffel Tower. The Moulin footbridge also offers charming, bucolic views over the Marne River.

What do visitors enjoy most about Aulnay-sous-Bois?

Visitors frequently appreciate the abundance of green spaces and the opportunities for outdoor activities. The cycle paths along the Canal de l'Ourcq are often highlighted for their pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. The historical significance of sites like Vincennes Castle also draws considerable interest.

Are there any places to relax and enjoy nature within the city?

Absolutely. Parc Gainville, also known as Parc des Cygnes, offers a serene escape with winding paths. Parc Émile Zola is another picturesque park known for its lush greenery and calm ponds. These smaller parks provide tranquil spots for relaxation right within the urban environment.

What is the best time to visit Aulnay-sous-Bois for outdoor activities?

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for outdoor activities in Aulnay-sous-Bois, as the weather is mild and the parks are in full bloom. However, the shaded sections of the Canal de l'Ourcq can be pleasant even on warmer days. Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with changing foliage in the parks.

Are there any specific areas for wildlife spotting?

Le Sausset Departmental Park, designated as a Natura 2000 site, is particularly rich in flora and fauna. Its diverse natural habitats around Savigny Pond make it a good spot for observing local wildlife, including various bird species and insects. The park's educational vineyard also adds to its ecological interest.

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