Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Melun, France

Situated in the southeastern outskirts of Paris, Melun is a picturesque town enriched with cultural heritage. Close to Melun are the impressive and opulent palaces of Vaux-le-Vicomte and Fontainebleau. These historic sites are not only visually stunning but also steeped in political intrigue that can captivate your attention for hours.

Additionally, Melun offers a variety of museums focusing on subjects ranging from aviation history to the esteemed French Gendarmerie. Combined with the tranquil banks of the Seine River and the verdant Brie countryside, Melun presents a serene retreat just 30 minutes away from Paris by train.

Now, let us delve into the premier attractions in Melun:

1. Vaux-le-Vicomte

This magnificent Baroque château was commissioned by the ambitious Nicolas Fouquet in the mid-1600s. Its historical significance is notable as it marked the first collaboration between landscaper André Le Nôtre and decorator Charles Le Brun on a large-scale endeavor.

Here, the Louis XIV style took shape and would later be further refined at Versailles. According to legend, upon first seeing Vaux-le-Vicomte in 1661, Louis XIV was so envious that he accused Fouquet of misdeeds, leading to Fouquet’s imprisonment for the remainder of his life.

2. Vaux-le-Vicomte Gardens

The gardens of the château are nothing short of extraordinary, with the striking fact that three entire villages were dismantled to create these beautiful grounds. At its peak, the estate employed 18,000 individuals to maintain the gardens, which, for a short period, hosted Fouquet’s lavish festivities.

The pathways are adorned with circular topiaries, intricate arabesque patterns formed from meticulously trimmed boxwood hedges, and a variety of fountains and a water parterre. During summer, special dinner events are organized to recreate the enchanting garden parties that Fouquet used to host.

3. Palace of Fontainebleau

The historical significance of this palace is profound, as it served as the residence for numerous French rulers spanning several centuries, from King Louis XII in the 12th century to Napoleon III in the 1870s. This is the site where Napoleon I abdicated before his exile to Elba.

Originally established as a fortress, the palace was developed into its current form in the 16th century under the orders of François I, featuring the Cour des Adieux, Ballroom, and Galerie François I from this period. Visitors will discover room after room filled with gilded plaster, exquisite furniture, paintings, tapestries, and remarkable artifacts, including the very swords worn by Napoleon during his coronation.

4. Forest of Fontainebleau

More than merely a hunting ground for monarchs, the Forest of Fontainebleau is a unique area where nature intersects with culture. Spanning over 25,000 hectares, this diverse woodland features oak, beech, and pine trees, along with more than 1,600 kilometers of hiking trails.

The hiking routes are enhanced by the many sandstone boulders scattered throughout the forest, some of which are notable climbing walls. For breathtaking views, the rocky Franchard Gorge offers scenic vistas reminiscent of the works of Monet, Camille Corot, Sisley, and Cézanne as well as descriptions from authors such as Balzac, George Sand, and Flaubert.

5. Musée de la Gendarmerie

The training establishment for the French National Gendarmerie is located in Melun, and in 2015, its archives were opened to the public. Visitors can explore more than 30,000 objects and 10,000 images and documents that chart the history of this institution, which dates back to 1791.

This museum clarifies the distinction between a police officer and a gendarme, detailing the roles of the gendarmerie and presenting a day in the life of one of its officers. Engaging temporary exhibitions, such as the recent “Les Sciences du Crime,” immerse visitors in the realm of investigation and forensics.

6. Musée Aéronautique et Spatial Safran

This museum serves as a treasure trove for aviation aficionados, featuring a diverse collection of aircraft engines from the early stages of aviation to contemporary innovations. The displayed manufacturers include historic brands such as Gnome et Rhône and SNECMA, which are both now part of the Safran conglomerate.

Visitors can examine the inner workings of piston, jet, and rocket engines. A selection of complete aircraft is also on exhibit, including the SA103 Emouchet glider, a Dassault Mirage III C jet, and the Blériot XI, the model used for the first heavier-than-air flight across the Channel in 1909.

7. Collégiale Notre-Dame

This church, founded in the early 11th century by King Robert II, may appear younger due to its Renaissance façade; however, its foundational structures, including the base of the towers, the nave, and the transept, are original. Notably, the church was once home to the exceptional Melun Diptych, a Gothic painting by Jean Fouquet created in 1452, which was later relocated and can now be found in Berlin and Antwerp.

Although the diptych is no longer present, a photographic reproduction can be seen in the south aisle, alongside several beautiful tomb slabs from the 14th and 15th centuries, displayed against the walls.

8. Château de Blandy-les-Tours

After appreciating the grandeur of Vaux-le-Vicomte and Fontainebleau, a visit to this robust military fortress offers an intriguing contrast. Located just ten minutes from Melun, this château dates back to the 14th century, towering over the surrounding village.

Features include a moat, a tall keep, hexagonal walls, five impressive towers, and a drawbridge. After enduring centuries of neglect, the entire site was restored in 1992 and is now fully accessible to visitors. You can ascend the five-story keep or take in the views of the medieval village and Brie countryside from the battlements.

9. Église Saint-Aspais

If you are familiar with Paris, you may recognize the Saint-Jacques Tower on Rue de Rivoli in the 4th Arrondissement. This singular structure, once part of a church demolished during the Revolution, was designed by the 16th-century architect Jehan de Félin. Notably, Félin’s other prominent work is the beautiful Church of Saint-Aspais in Melun.

Visitors will notice the irregular shape of the church, which was adapted to uneven terrain. Félin’s masterful masonry is evident in the intricate filigree present on the western and eastern portals. Inside, the four intricately sculpted stone altarpieces showcase a blend of Flamboyant Gothic and Renaissance styles.

10. Musée d’Art et d’Histoire

The municipal museum of Melun is housed in the elegant 16th-century Hôtel de la Vicomté, which is recognized as a historical monument. Nicolas Fouquet acquired this property in the 17th century to oversee the construction of his palace at Vaux-le-Vicomte.

While the museum is relatively small, it can capture your attention for approximately half an hour with its collection of paintings, ceramics, and works by the allegorical sculptor Henri Chapu. Most of the artworks date back to the 18th and 19th centuries, depicting Melun’s scenic surroundings along the Seine River and various scenes from the Forest of Fontainebleau.

11. Abbaye Royale du Lys

Now a captivating ruin, the Abbaye of Lys was once a significant pilgrimage site for the French monarchy. Kings from Louis IX in the 13th century through to Louis XVI made visits to this Cistercian abbey.

There are intriguing stories associated with this location; one such tale involves Marie Mancini, who caught the attention of a young Louis XIV and was subsequently banished to the convent following her mother’s disapproval of their union.

12. Paris

In Melun, you are positioned in a suburban area of Paris, with the city center conveniently accessible for a day visit or brief explorations. A quick train ride allows you to arrive at the Gare de Lyon in just 30 minutes.

From there, you will have a seamless transit connection on the Métro to iconic locations such as the Louvre, Pompidou Centre, Place de la Concorde, Notre-Dame, the covered arcades, Champs-Élysées, and many more, creating an almost endless list of attractions to discover.

For those short on time, skipping directly to Pont Neuf to board an emblematic cruise can provide a comprehensive view of all the sights along the Seine in one enjoyable experience.

13. Seine Riverbanks

More than eight kilometers of the Seine’s banks are accessible to the public, providing an excellent opportunity for leisurely strolls along this historic river. Historically, these banks served as the center of commerce in the town and now present vistas of the town and the Saint-Étienne river island.

As you depart Melun, the riverside transforms into peaceful countryside scenery, showcasing various waterfowl, including moorhens, ducks, swans, herons, and cormorants. Along the left bank between Melun and Samois, one can admire Les Affolantes, expansive 19th-century villas inspired by medieval architecture.

14. Brie de Melun

Melun’s Brie cheese has enjoyed Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) status since 1980, subject to stringent production regulations. It can only be labeled Brie de Melun if produced in specific towns within the Seine-et-Marne, Aube, and Yonne departments, requiring a minimum aging period of three months—significantly longer than other types of Brie.

This extended aging process enhances its flavor and aroma, making it more robust compared to Brie de Meaux, and it is typically in season from April to September. The finest way to savor it is paired with a crusty baguette and a glass of Burgundy or Gaillac wine.

15. Miel de Melun

Melun features a municipal apiary managed by the town’s greenhouse, which produces honey available for tasting and purchase. This garden is open for educational visits, and inquiries can be made at the tourist office about organizing an educational tour.

Children can learn how bees convert nectar into honey, while visitors gain insights into the art of beekeeping. Jars of this locally produced honey are available at various specialty shops throughout the town, including the tourist office, where complimentary samples are often offered prior to purchasing.