Things to do in Pontoise

Activities, attractions and tours

Pontoise
Photo by Kylie Ann
Photo by Kylie Ann
Photo "Pontoise" by couscouschocolat (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by couscouschocolat (CC BY)
Photo "Pontoise" by xiquinhosilva (CC BY) / Cropped from original
Photo by xiquinhosilva (CC BY)
Photo "Pontoise" by Lsa2N (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Lsa2N (page does not exist) (CC BY-SA)
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Top places to visit

1. Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower dominates the Paris skyline and forms an essential part of the heart-stopping Parisian panorama, viewable from the top of many of the city’s prominent landmarks. But there is no better view of the city than from the 276-metre high top floor observation area of the tower itself, where visitors can treat themselves to a glass of bubbly from the Champagne bar and toast their trip while feeling as though they are truly on top of the world.
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Eiffel Tower showing modern architecture and a garden

2. Louvre Museum

The Louvre offers 6 hectares of exhibition space housing some of the world’s most famous works of art. Visitors flock from around the globe, many drawn to the Louvre by the legendary Mona Lisa and other works including the marble statues of the Winged Victory of Samothrace and Venus de Milo. The Musée du Louvre - known to most simply as the Louvre – houses a vast collection of works with objects in the collections ranging in date from 5,000 B.C. to the 19th century.
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Paris City Centre which includes a fountain, street scenes and heritage architecture

3. Arc de Triomphe

Cutting an imposing figure at the centre of the Place Charles de Gaulle, the Arc de Triomphe can be accessed from one of 12 tree-lined avenues, named after France’s military leaders, that radiate out to form a star. The most famous of these is the Champs-Elysées, with the Arc de Triomphe situated at its western end. Despite the near-constant stream of busy traffic, pedestrians are afforded plenty of space to wind in and out of the columns that form the base of this architectural masterpiece.
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Arc de Triomphe viewed up the Champs Elysees and a large french flag flying under the arch

4. Notre-Dame

Notre Dame sits on le Île de la Cité, one of two natural islands situated in the middle of the Seine. Construction on the awe inspiring building at the heart of the city began in 1163, and was commissioned by Bishop Maurice de Sully to replace the 4th century cathedral dedicated to St. Stephen. Work was completed in the 14th century with the installation of the huge flying buttresses.
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Notre Dame Cathedral featuring religious elements, a city and a church or cathedral

5. Champs-Élysées

Walk along the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and gaze up at the imposing Arc de Triomphe. Discover the history behind the intricate carvings decorating it. Enjoy the walk along the boulevard and shop in the designer stores lining the road.
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Paris. Champs Elysees

6. Palais Garnier

Treat yourself to an evening of classical entertainment at the Paris Opera (Opéra National de Paris). Admire the handsome architecture and luxurious interiors of Palais Garnier, the home of this historic French opera company. Learn about the 300-year-old past of the Paris Opera via art collections, multimedia displays and museum exhibits.
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Palais Garnier which includes heritage architecture and heritage elements

7. La Défense

Situated on the western outskirts of the city, La Defense is Europe's largest business district with over 3 million square metres of office and shopping space. This bustling premier site is located just outside the city’s 20 arrondissements, about 30 minutes on the Metro from the centre of Paris.
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La Defense featuring modern architecture, cbd and art

What to do in Pontoise

Popular places to visit

Pontoise Cathedral

Learn about the local history of Pontoise when you take a trip to Pontoise Cathedral. Discover the countryside while you're in the area.

Pontoise Cathedral

Areas of Pontoise

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Centre-Ville

Travelers like the historic sites in Centre-Ville, and Pontoise Cathedral is a top attraction you might want to visit.

Centre-Ville
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Saint-Martin

Saint-Martin is well-liked for its restaurants and museums. If you're hoping to see more of the larger area, Pontoise Cathedral and Abbaye de Maubuisson are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Saint-Martin
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Marcouville

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Marcouville and surrounding area, you can visit Pontoise Cathedral and Les 3 Fontaines Shopping Center.

Marcouville
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Les Cordeliers

Though Les Cordeliers might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pontoise Cathedral and Abbaye de Maubuisson.

Les Cordeliers
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Quartier Canrobert

Though Quartier Canrobert might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pontoise Cathedral and Les 3 Fontaines Shopping Center.

Quartier Canrobert
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Les Pâtis

Though Les Pâtis might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Pontoise Cathedral and Les 3 Fontaines Shopping Center.

Les Pâtis

Frequently asked questions

Is Pontoise worth visiting?
Whether you're here to experience the local charm and cultural hotspots or sample regional foods and explore the outdoors, there are plenty of things to do in Pontoise.
How do I spend a day in Pontoise?
Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island and Castle of Auvers are two awesome places to kick-start your vacation adventures. Be sure to explore the dining and retail options in Pontoise while you're there too.
What is the top tourist attraction in Pontoise?
Pontoise Cathedral is one of the top tourist attractions in Pontoise and should feature high on every to-do list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Pontoise?
Three days will be plenty of time to check out some popular city sights, like Pontoise Cathedral, Castle of Auvers and Story Boat. The average stay in Pontoise is three days. If you have the urge to extend your vacation, Paris isn't far away.
Is Pontoise a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city center, Pontoise is a great destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Pontoise Cathedral and Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island. Then take a stroll around Saint-Martin, located 2 kilometers from the center, and Centre-Ville, which is about 0.32 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Pontoise with kids?
If you're searching for sights and activities for all the family, here are some excellent ideas for what to do in Pontoise with kids.

What to do in Pontoise for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or fan of Mother Nature, there are plenty of things to do in Pontoise for adults including Absinthe Museum.
Are there free things to do in Pontoise?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Pontoise is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on cool neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without reaching into your pocket. Pontoise Cathedral is one spot that doesn't have an admission fee.