Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Guide of the Yvelines

Guide of the Yvelines

Renowned for its castle and its vast forest, the royal city of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, place of residence of many kings of France and birthplace of Louis XIV, has kept an important heritage of its rich past.

Former royal residence, the castle of Saint-Germain-en-Laye built in the 16th century for King Francis I houses today to the National Antiques museum. Besides the prestigious archaeological collections, the castle also offers the Sainte-Chapelle chapel of Gothic style as well as a splendid inner courtyard.

In front of the castle spreads out a magnificent park featuring a landscape garden great for strolling. Built by Le Nôtre, the Terrasse (terrace) of the park - 2400 metres long and 30 metres wide! - offers an open view of the Seine river, the West of Paris and the La Défense district. A viewpoint indicator helps to identify the surrounding sites.

Not far from the park, you can also walk in the old town along the pedestrian streets lined with old houses and town houses of the 17th and 18th centuries.

The town also offers a wide cultural choice with its museums: National Archaeology museum, situated in the castle; Claude Debussy museum, place devoted to the famous French composer born in Saint-Germain-en-Laye; Maurice Denis Le Prieuré museum home to numerous works of symbolism and nabis artists.

Saint-Germain-en-Laye is also a trading town boasting numerous boutiques. Such high number of shops led to the attribution of the title "biggest open-sky shopping centre in West of Paris". Shopping fans will be delighted!

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