Things to do in Pontoise

Activities, attractions and tours

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)
Photo "Pontoise" by Ordifana75 (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Ordifana75 (CC BY-SA)
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Top places to visit

1. Eiffel Tower

It’s impossible to imagine Paris without the Eiffel Tower. This striking construction appears everywhere, from tacky souvenirs to valuable artworks, and is one of the city’s best-loved landmarks.
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The views from the top of this iconic symbol of Paris are an unmissable highlight of any visit.

2. Louvre Museum

With three vast wings and one of the largest collections in the world, it’s hard to know where to start in this magnificent museum of fine art and antiquities. Its official title is Musée du Louvre, or Louvre Museum, but most people just call it the Louvre. The home of the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo and Winged Victory of Samothrace is spread across six hectares on the Right Bank in the fashionable 1st arrondissement and is one of the must-see sights of Paris.
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One of the world’s biggest and best art collections is housed in one of Paris’s most beautiful buildings.

3. Notre-Dame

Notre Dame Cathedral dates from 1163 and took almost two centuries to complete, undergoing major restoration in the mid-19th century. Its twin towers dominate the Ile de la Cité, the larger of two islands in the River Seine, and many people catch their first glimpse of this famous Parisian landmark from the observation deck of a river cruiser.
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Notre Dame Cathedral which includes a church or cathedral, heritage elements and heritage architecture

4. Arc de Triomphe

Climb the 284 steps of the Arc de Triomphe to see the beating heart of Paris spread out at your feet. The triumphal arch is the centrepiece of Place Charles de Gaulle, the “star” (or “étoile”, as it’s known to Parisians) formed by the intersection of twelve main avenues, including the world-famous Champs-Elysées. Although it’s on a busy traffic junction, a network of pedestrian crossings and plenty of room around the base makes it easy to explore on foot.
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Arc de Triomphe showing night scenes, a city and street scenes

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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Champs Elysees showing heritage architecture, a hotel and a city

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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Paris featuring a city, heritage elements and street scenes

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

Travellers like the historical 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, Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island and St Christophe Business Park are some interesting sights nearby to check out.

Saint-Martin
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Les Louvrais

Though Les Louvrais may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Abbaye de Maubuisson and Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island.

Les Louvrais
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Les Pâtis

Though Les Pâtis may not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Abbaye de Maubuisson and Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island.

Les Pâtis
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Larris-Maradas-Palette-Bocages

While Larris-Maradas-Palette-Bocages isn't home to many top sights, Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island and St Christophe Business Park are some notable places to visit nearby.

Larris-Maradas-Palette-Bocages
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Notre-Dame

While there might not be top attractions in Notre-Dame, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Abbaye de Maubuisson and Cergy Pontoise Leisure Island.

Notre-Dame
Cergy

Cergy

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 holiday 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 holiday, Paris isn't far away.
Is Pontoise a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city centre, 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 kilometres from the centre, and Centre-Ville, which is about 0.32 kilometres 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 neighbourhoods, 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.