Montreuil Travel Guide

Explore the attractions, activities, food scene, transportation options, and cultural customs of Montreuil, France with this comprehensive tour guide.


Montreuil is a charming town located in the Hauts-de-France region of northern France. Located just a few kilometers from the English Channel, Montreuil is known for its rich history and beautiful countryside. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit in Montreuil, the food and drink scene, the cultural customs, and much more.

Introduction to Montreuil

Montreuil has a long and storied history dating back to the Roman Empire. The town was formally established in the 10th century and served as a major trading post during the Middle Ages. Today, Montreuil is home to a variety of cultural attractions and activities such as historical museums, hiking and biking routes, and outdoor adventures.

List of Places to Visit in Montreuil

Montreuil is home to a number of culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and outdoor adventures. Here are some of the must-visit places in Montreuil:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Château de Montreuil: A beautiful 18th-century castle that now operates as a luxury hotel and restaurant
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts: A popular art museum featuring works by famous French artists such as Eugene Boudin and Raoul Dufy
  • Ramparts of Montreuil: A historic fortress with walkable ramparts that offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside

Natural Attractions of Montreuil: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Les Jardins Ephémères: A beautiful garden filled with seasonal flowers and plants that change throughout the year
  • Baie de Somme: A stunning coastal area featuring sand dunes, beaches, and a wide range of wildlife
  • Réserve Naturelle Nationale de la Baie de Canche: A nature reserve that is home to over 170 species of birds and a variety of other wildlife

Hiking/Biking Routes of Montreuil

Montreuil is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town has a number of hiking and biking routes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Some popular routes include:

  • Circuit du Mont-Hulin: A 10 km (6.2 mile) hiking trail that takes you through a mix of forest and farmland, offering stunning views over the town.
  • Circuit de la forêt de Crécy: A 23 km (14.3 mile) hiking trail that takes you through the beautiful Forest of Crecy.
  • Veloroute du Lin: A 47 km (29.2 mile) biking trail that takes you through beautiful countryside and charming villages.

Best Things to Do in Montreuil: Activities and Tours

Montreuil has a range of activities and tours that cater to all interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Montreuil:

  • Wine tasting at the Château de Montreuil
  • Guided tours of the Ramparts of Montreuil
  • Kayaking tours of the Baie de Somme

Week-Long Itinerary for Montreuil

If you’re planning a week-long visit to Montreuil, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive in Montreuil, check into your hotel, and explore the town center.
Day 2 Take a guided tour of the Ramparts of Montreuil followed by wine tasting at the Château de Montreuil.
Day 3 Hike the Circuit de la Forêt de Crécy.
Day 4 Kayak tour of the Baie de Somme.
Day 5 Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts and then explore the Les Jardins Ephémères.
Day 6 Take a bike tour on the Veloroute du Lin and visit nearby villages.
Day 7 Enjoy a day of relaxation at your hotel or explore nearby towns such as Boulogne-sur-Mer and Le Touquet.

Food and Drink Scene of Montreuil

Montreuil is known for its culinary scene, and it’s no surprise given the region’s rich heritage of agriculture and wine production. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Coq au Vin: A famous French chicken dish cooked with red wine and mushrooms
  • Tarte Tatin: A French apple pie that is served upside down
  • Pâté de Campagne: A rustic French-style pâté made with pork and flavored with herbs

Local Beverages

  • French wine: Montreuil is home to a number of vineyards that produce excellent wine. Some popular varieties include Chablis, Sancerre, and Côtes du Rhône.
  • Cider: A traditional French apple or pear-based alcoholic drink.
  • Beer: The town of Saint-Omer, located just a short distance from Montreuil, is known for its excellent beer.

Where to Stay in Montreuil: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Montreuil has a variety of accommodation options ranging from luxurious hotels to budget hostels. Here are some top places to stay in Montreuil:

  • Château de Montreuil: A luxury hotel housed in an 18th-century castle.
  • Les Hauts de Montreuil: A charming hotel located in the town center.
  • Le Patio Saint Louis: A budget-friendly option located just a short walk from the town center.

What to Buy in Montreuil: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Montreuil is known for its locally produced food and drink items. Some popular souvenirs and local products include:

  • French wine
  • Cider and beer
  • Local cheeses
  • Honey and jams

Local Culture and Customs of Montreuil

Montreuil is a friendly and welcoming town with a rich tradition of hospitality. Here are some cultural customs to be aware of:

  • Greeting people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek is a common form of greeting in Montreuil.
  • It is considered impolite to wear shoes inside someone’s home or to talk loudly in public places such as restaurants.

Best Time to Visit Montreuil

The best time to visit Montreuil is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is beautiful year-round and is a great destination for a winter getaway.

Do’s and Don’ts of Montreuil

Here are some general do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Montreuil:

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Be respectful of local customs.
  • Explore the beautiful outdoor spaces.

Don’t:

  • be too loud in public places.
  • Wear shoes inside someone’s home without asking permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Montreuil

Montreuil is a safe and welcoming town with a low crime rate. However, it’s always a good idea to take standard safety precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and staying in well-lit areas at night.

Health in Montreuil

Montreuil has a number of hospitals and medical facilities that offer high-quality healthcare services. However, it’s always a good idea to bring travel insurance that covers emergency medical expenses.

Getting to Montreuil: Transportation Options and Logistics

Montreuil is located just a short drive from the English Channel and is easily accessible by car, train, or bus.

Airports Near Montreuil

The closest airports to Montreuil are Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and Paris Orly Airport, both of which offer international and domestic flights. From there, you can take a train or rent a car to get to Montreuil.

Bus Stations Near Montreuil

Several bus companies, including FlixBus and Eurolines, offer service to and from Montreuil. It’s best to check schedules and prices online before booking a ticket.

Other Options

If you prefer to drive, it’s easy to rent a car in Paris or at the nearest airport and drive to Montreuil. Alternatively, you can take a train from Paris to nearby Calais and then rent a car for the remainder of your trip.

How to Get Around in Montreuil

Montreuil is a small town that is best explored on foot or by bike. However, if you want to visit nearby towns or attractions, it’s best to rent a car or take a bus or train.

Where to Go Next from Montreuil: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Montreuil is surrounded by charming villages and natural wonders. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

  • Boulogne-sur-Mer: A charming coastal town with a historic old town and beautiful beaches.
  • Le Touquet: A chic seaside resort town with a wide range of boutiques and restaurants.

Conclusion

Montreuil is a beautiful town with a rich history and culture. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or culinary delights, Montreuil has something for everyone. We hope this guide has helped you plan your next trip to this lovely town!