Enjoy Impressionist delights along the banks of the Seine on the outskirts of Paris
While the Impressionists were greatly inspired by the modern Paris going up around them, they found new themes to paint just beyond the capital thanks to the development of the railways, improvements in painting materials and the explosion in recreational activities here. Along the Seine’s meanders, at Chatou, Bougival and the Île de la Jatte, a joie de vivre blossomed, centred around carefree days, dancing and boating. La Grenouillère by Monet, Le Déjeuner des canotiers by Renoir and Un dimanche après-midi à la Grande Jatte by Seurat evoke the period wonderfully. Dances at riverside guinguette restaurants, siestas under a boater, a boating outing, a picnic on the grass… such joyous moments captured on canvas by the Impressionists can still be enjoyed today!
Featured • Museums & sites
Featured • Unmissable,Museums & sites
What to see and do
along the banks of the Seine
Interactive
map
Explore the Impressionist banks of the Seine thanks to our interactive map!
Inspiring
momentsWander around Ville d’Avray’s lakes, known as the Etangs de Corot in honour of the artist who immortalised these landscapes. See the house where he lived and the wall paintings he executed in the town’s church (destination.hauts-de-seine.fr and mairie-villedavray.fr). Then why not treat yourself to an enchanting break in the 4-star hotel that bears his name, relishing a relaxing session at its spa or savouring a gastronomic meal at its starred restaurant (etangs-corot.com).
At Chatou, on the Île des Impressionnistes, appreciate the delights of a picnic on the grass beside the Seine. Take in the landscapes that inspired Renoir’s Le Déjeuner des canotiers. After a restorative little siesta, head out for a gentle walk beside the great river…
