Rueil-Malmaison Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Rueil-Malmaison with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best attractions, activities, food, and accommodations in the city.


Introduction to Rueil-Malmaison

Located in the western suburbs of Paris, Rueil-Malmaison is a charming and picturesque town known for its rich history and beautiful natural landscapes. The town was named after the Château de Malmaison, the former residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and his wife, Josephine. Today, Rueil-Malmaison is a thriving community that attracts visitors from around the world.

List of Places to Visit in Rueil-Malmaison

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Château de Malmaison: This 18th-century castle was the home of Napoleon and Josephine. Visitors can explore the interiors of the castle and its beautiful gardens.
  • Musée d’Histoire Locale et de l’Île-de-France: This local history museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the area.
  • Eglise Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul: This beautiful church features stunning Gothic architecture and intricate stained glass windows.

Natural Attractions of Rueil-Malmaison: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bois de Saint Cucufa: This large forested area offers beautiful hiking trails and scenic views of the surrounding area.
  • Parc de Bois-Préau: This park features lush greenery, a lake, and spectacular views of the Château de Malmaison.
  • Bords de Seine: The banks of the Seine River that runs through Rueil-Malmaison offer picturesque views and are perfect for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rueil-Malmaison

Rueil-Malmaison offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Bois de Saint Cucufa, Parc de Bois-Préau, and Bords de Seine all have well-marked trails that offer a range of difficulty levels for various skill levels.

Best Things to Do in Rueil-Malmaison: Activities and Tours

  • Guided tour of Château de Malmaison: Take a guided tour of the residence of Napoleon and Josephine and learn about the fascinating history of this iconic building.
  • Boat ride on the Seine: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Seine River and soak in the picturesque views of Rueil-Malmaison and the surrounding areas.
  • Wine Tasting: Take a wine tour and experience the different flavors and aromas that the local vineyards have to offer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rueil-Malmaison

Day 1: Visit the Château de Malmaison and its gardens.

Day 2: Explore the Musée d’Histoire Locale et de l’Île-de-France and learn about the history of the area.

Day 3: Take a bike ride or hike in the Bois de Saint Cucufa.

Day 4: Visit the Eglise Saint-Pierre-Saint-Paul.

Day 5: Enjoy a boat ride on the Seine River.

Day 6: Take a wine tour and indulge in some local wines.

Day 7: Spend a day exploring the Bords de Seine and the Parc de Bois-Préau.

Food and Drink Scene of Rueil-Malmaison

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bœuf bourguignon: A classic French dish made with beef, bacon, onions, mushrooms, and red wine that is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
  • Confit de canard: A delicious duck dish that is cooked slowly in its own fat until it becomes tender and flavorful.
  • Tarte Tatin: A mouth-watering dessert made with caramelized apples and a crispy pastry crust.

Local Beverages

  • Wine: The Île-de-France region produces some excellent wines, including reds, whites, and rosés.
  • Beer: The local microbreweries in Rueil-Malmaison produce some unique and delicious beers.
  • Cider: Cider is also a popular drink in the region and is perfect for a refreshing drink on a hot day.

Where to Stay in Rueil-Malmaison: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Rueil-Malmaison offers plenty of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to affordable guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Novotel Suites Paris Rueil-Malmaison: A modern and stylish hotel located in the heart of the town.
  • Hotel des Arts: A charming guesthouse with a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff.
  • Appart City Paris Rueil-Malmaison: An affordable and comfortable apartment hotel that is perfect for longer stays.

What to Buy in Rueil-Malmaison: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Artisanal Cheeses: The region is known for its delicious artisan cheeses, including brie, camembert, and roquefort.
  • Wines: Stock up on some of the local wines and take home a taste of Rueil-Malmaison.
  • Art and Crafts: The town is home to several artists and artisans who produce unique and beautiful works of art and crafts that make for great souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Rueil-Malmaison

The people of Rueil-Malmaison are proud of their rich cultural heritage and are warm and welcoming to visitors. The town is known for its love of art, music, and fine cuisine.

Best Time to Visit Rueil-Malmaison

The best time to visit Rueil-Malmaison is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. The summers can be hot and crowded, while the winters can be cold and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rueil-Malmaison

Do:

  • Do try the local wines and cuisine.
  • Do explore the town’s rich cultural heritage.
  • Do take a bike ride or hike through the beautiful natural landscapes.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to carry cash as not all shops and restaurants accept credit and debit cards.
  • Don’t forget to be respectful of local customs and culture.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural landscapes.

Safety and Health

Safety in Rueil-Malmaison

Rueil-Malmaison is generally considered a safe town, but it is always wise to take common-sense precautions while traveling. Avoid unlit areas at night, and keep your valuables safe and secure.

Health in Rueil-Malmaison

Rueil-Malmaison has excellent medical facilities that cater to both locals and travelers. It is always advisable to carry travel insurance and keep a copy of your medical history and prescriptions with you.

Getting to Rueil-Malmaison: Transportation Options and Logistics

Rueil-Malmaison is easily accessible via public transport from Paris and other nearby towns and cities.

Airports Near Rueil-Malmaison

The closest airport to Rueil-Malmaison is Paris-Orly Airport, which is located approximately 29 km away. Charles de Gaulle Airport is also a popular option, but it is located further away.

Bus Stations Near Rueil-Malmaison

Rueil-Malmaison is well-connected via bus to other towns and cities in the region. The nearest bus stations are situated in Paris, Nanterre, and La Défense.

Other Options

Rueil-Malmaison is also accessible via car, with several major highways passing through the region. There are also several taxi and ride-share services available that can take you directly to Rueil-Malmaison.

How to Get Around in Rueil-Malmaison

Rueil-Malmaison is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. There is also a well-connected public transport system that includes buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Rueil-Malmaison: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Rueil-Malmaison is well-located and provides easy access to several nearby towns and cities, including:

  • Paris: The city of love is just a short train ride away from Rueil-Malmaison and is a must-visit destination for all travelers.
  • Versailles: Visit the iconic Palace of Versailles and experience the opulent lifestyle of French royalty.
  • Fontainebleau: Explore the historic château and the beautiful forest that surrounds the town.

Conclusion

Rueil-Malmaison is a hidden gem in the western suburbs of Paris. With its rich cultural heritage, beautiful natural landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it is a must-visit destination for all travelers. Plan your trip today and experience the charm and beauty of Rueil-Malmaison.

Château du Vert-Mont in the domaine de Vert-Mont Château du Vert-Mont in the domaine de Vert-Mont The famous chateau de Malmaison. The famous chateau de Malmaison.