City Guide for: Magny-le-Hongre, France

Magny-le-Hongre, France Guide

Magny-le-Hongre is a charming town located in the Seine-et-Marne department, just east of Paris. Best known as the home of Disneyland Paris, it offers a blend of family-friendly entertainment and traditional French village life. Beyond the magic of Disney, visitors can explore the town's historic center, enjoy the surrounding countryside, and experience authentic French culture. While Disneyland Paris is the main draw, Magny-le-Hongre provides a more relaxed and affordable base for exploring the region. The town boasts a variety of shops, restaurants, and parks, offering a welcome respite from the bustling theme park. It's a perfect destination for families and those seeking a mix of excitement and tranquility.

Food & Cuisine

While Magny-le-Hongre's culinary scene is influenced by its proximity to Disneyland Paris, offering a range of international options, you can still find traditional French cuisine. Many restaurants in the town center serve classic dishes like steak frites, crêpes, and French onion soup. For a more authentic experience, explore the nearby villages for local markets and family-run bistros offering regional specialties. Several restaurants within the Val d'Europe shopping center, adjacent to Magny-le-Hongre, also provide diverse dining choices.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Magny-le-Hongre is primarily centered around Disneyland Paris and the Val d'Europe shopping center. Disneyland Paris offers evening entertainment, including shows, parades, and themed bars. Val d'Europe has a variety of restaurants and bars that stay open late. For a more traditional French nightlife experience, consider venturing into nearby towns like Serris or Bussy-Saint-Georges, which offer a wider selection of bars and pubs.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Magny-le-Hongre depends on your priorities. For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October). Summer (June-August) offers the warmest weather but also the highest crowds and prices. Winter (November-March) can be cold and potentially snowy, but it also offers a festive atmosphere around the holidays and lower prices.

Transportation

Magny-le-Hongre is well-connected to Paris and surrounding areas. The RER A train line provides direct access to Paris, with the Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy station serving Disneyland Paris and being easily accessible from Magny-le-Hongre. Several bus lines also operate within the town and connect it to nearby villages and shopping centers. While there is no tram or metro system directly within Magny-le-Hongre, the RER A effectively serves as a rapid transit option.

Airport

The closest major airport to Magny-le-Hongre is Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), located approximately 45 kilometers (28 miles) away. The TGV high-speed train connects CDG directly to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy station, making it a convenient option. Alternatively, you can take the RER B train to Châtelet-Les Halles and then transfer to the RER A train to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy. Taxi and private shuttle services are also available.

Attractions

Golf Disneyland

Golf Disneyland Tee off at Golf Disneyland, offering two distinct 18-hole courses and a 9-hole course suitable for all skill levels. Enjoy beautifully landscaped greens, challenging fairways, and a serene atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Golf Disneyland provides a memorable golfing experience.

Day Trips

Senlis

Senlis is a charming historic town with a rich Gallo-Roman and medieval past. Explore its well-preserved ramparts, cathedral, and narrow cobblestone streets. Discover the town's artistic heritage and enjoy its peaceful atmosphere.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour by car

Activities
  • Visit the Senlis Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Senlis)
  • Explore the Musée d'Art et d'Archéologie
  • Walk along the ramparts
  • Wander through the old town

Château de Fontainebleau

The Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a magnificent royal palace with a rich history spanning centuries. Explore its opulent interiors, wander through its beautiful gardens, and discover the stories of the French monarchs who resided there.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car

Activities
  • Tour the Château de Fontainebleau
  • Explore the gardens (French Garden, English Garden, Diana Garden)
  • Visit the Musée Chinois (Chinese Museum)
  • Walk through the Fontainebleau Forest

Barbizon

Barbizon is a charming village known as the birthplace of the Barbizon school of painting, a precursor to Impressionism. Explore the village's art galleries, visit the Auberge Ganne museum, and wander through the nearby Fontainebleau Forest, which inspired many of the artists.

Travel Time

Approximately 45 minutes by car

Activities
  • Visit the Auberge Ganne museum
  • Explore the art galleries
  • Hike in the Fontainebleau Forest

Provins

Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a beautifully preserved medieval town with impressive ramparts, towers, and historic buildings. Step back in time as you explore its charming streets, witness medieval reenactments, and discover the history of this important trading center.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car

Activities
  • Walk along the ramparts
  • Visit the Tour César (Caesar's Tower)
  • Explore the Collégiale Saint-Quiriace
  • Attend a medieval show (e.g., Les Aigles des Remparts)

Chantilly

Chantilly is famous for its stunning château, the Château de Chantilly, and its beautiful park. It is also known for its cream, Crème Chantilly. Explore the château's art collection, wander through the gardens, and enjoy a horse show at the Grandes Écuries.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour by car

Activities
  • Visit the Château de Chantilly
  • Explore the Grandes Écuries (Great Stables)
  • Walk through the gardens
  • Try Crème Chantilly

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is a stunning 17th-century château that served as a model for Versailles. Explore its opulent interiors, admire its magnificent gardens designed by André Le Nôtre, and discover the story of Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV's finance minister.

Travel Time

Approximately 45 minutes by car

Activities
  • Tour the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
  • Explore the gardens
  • Enjoy a candlelit evening visit (seasonal)

Reims

Reims, the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, is a city steeped in history and renowned for its magnificent cathedral, where French kings were crowned. Explore the historic Champagne houses, sample the region's famous sparkling wine, and discover the city's Roman past.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car or train

Activities
  • Visit the Reims Cathedral (Notre-Dame de Reims)
  • Tour a Champagne house (e.g., Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger)
  • Explore the Palais du Tau (former Archbishop's Palace)
  • Discover the Roman ruins of Porte de Mars

Paris

The capital of France, Paris, is a world-renowned city offering iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Arc de Triomphe. Explore charming neighborhoods like Montmartre, indulge in delicious pastries, and experience the vibrant Parisian culture. A day trip to Paris provides a taste of art, history, fashion, and gastronomy.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour by train (RER A) or car

Activities
  • Visit the Eiffel Tower
  • Explore the Louvre Museum
  • Walk along the Seine River
  • Wander through Montmartre and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica
  • Enjoy a Parisian cafe

Compiègne

Compiègne is a historic city with a rich royal and imperial past. Explore the Château de Compiègne, a former royal residence, and discover the city's museums and parks. Compiègne played a significant role in both World Wars.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car

Activities
  • Visit the Château de Compiègne
  • Explore the Musée National de la Voiture (National Car Museum)
  • Walk through the Parc de Compiègne

Giverny

Giverny is the home of Claude Monet's house and gardens, a must-see for art lovers. Explore the artist's colorful gardens, including the famous water lily pond, and visit his house to learn about his life and work.

Travel Time

Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes by car

Activities
  • Visit Claude Monet's house and gardens
  • Explore the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny