Bell Tower Festival 2026 | Concert in Thiverny
The 20th edition of this festival features free concerts in the churches of Creil Sud Oise. Join us on June 19 in Thiverny.
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Montataire
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ℹ️Practical info — Montataire
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The best view of the historic castle (Château de Montataire) is from the lower streets near the river.
- Park near the Therain river; from there it is easiest to explore the town's interesting industrial architecture on foot.
- Taking a walk around the ancient Notre-Dame de Montataire church gives a great sense of the local history.
- Make sure to check online ahead of time if the castle is open to the public, as visiting hours are very restricted.
🍽 Food
🍽
Local Workers' Bistros
Look for simple eateries near the old industrial zones for hearty, authentic, and affordable daily lunch menus.
🍽
Traditional Bakeries
Treat yourself to classic French éclairs or fresh baguettes from one of the bakeries in the old town center.
🍽
Picardy Regional Cuisine
Try hearty, regional meat dishes in the traditional restaurants found in and around Montataire.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Montataire Weekly Market
Visit the local market to buy cheeses and fresh vegetables directly from the rural Oise department.
🛍
Small Craft Shops
Keep an eye out for small workshops that honor the town's industrial past through local arts or metalwork.
🧘
Therain River Paths
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Therain river, where the town takes on a much quieter, more natural character.
🧘
Bois de Godart
A nearby wooded area that is absolutely excellent for a relaxing and quiet stroll in nature.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
6
Lecture Tour | Necropolis and Church of Montataire
Explore the history of the Montataire necropolis during a guided archaeological tour on June 20. A must for history and heritage buffs.
32nd Montataire Basketball Club Flea Market
Find hidden gems at the 32nd annual flea market on Sunday, June 28, along Avenue Ambroise Croizat in Montataire.
Bell Tower Festival 2026 | Closing in Montataire
The festival concludes on June 28 at 5 PM with a grand closing concert at the Notre-Dame du Mont church in Montataire.
Hiking | In the Footsteps of the Builders
Join the hike from Saint-Maximin on July 5. Choose your pace on marked trails ranging from 8 to 20 km.
Leisure | Role-playing Games in the Library
Dive into imaginary worlds of magic and fantasy. Join the "Joueurs de Chimères" for an immersive role-playing experience.
Montataire is located in the Oise department of northern France, serving as a historic and industrial cornerstone of the Creil metropolitan area. Perched on a limestone cliff, the city is crowned by a magnificent 12th-century castle that has witnessed the evolution of the region from a feudal domain to an industrial powerhouse. The 19th-century industrial revolution defined Montataire's modern character, as it became a major center for metallurgy and heavy industry, a legacy that continues with modern steel processing facilities. The city is also known for its social history, marked by a strong sense of community and labor activism. Geographically, it sits at the confluence of the Thérain and Oise rivers, providing both industrial utility and natural corridors. Today, Montataire focuses on balancing its industrial output with sustainable urban development and a rich cultural scene, making it a unique example of a resilient French industrial town.
- Location: Hauts-de-France, France
- Top sights: Montataire Castle · Notre-Dame Collegiate Church · Prieuré Park
- Nearby: Villers-Saint-Paul (5 km)
- Population: ~14.257
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 3 | 3 | 6 | 10 | 13 | 17 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 57 | 52 | 53 | 40 | 65 | 59 | 59 | 65 | 44 | 60 | 65 | 72 |
Geography
Facts
- Population: approximately 14,257 inhabitants.
- Geographic coordinates: 49.2556 N, 2.4383 E.
- Postal code: 60160.
- Main landmark: Castle of Montataire.
- Region: Hauts-de-France.
- Industrial history: Key site for the French metal industry since 1830.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→15:373.5 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Morning: We begin our exploration in the calm and verdant surroundings, taking deep breaths of fresh air while appreciating the town's dedication to its recreational and natural spaces. Midday: The journey shifts towards the historical core, revealing architectural gems and religious sites that have withstood the test of time, offering a glimpse into local heritage. Afternoon: Our adventure takes us higher up towards the town's majestic fortifications, where stunning views and centuries of history converge to create an unforgettable experience. Evening: As the day gently winds down, we conclude with a grand finale at an elegant estate, reflecting on the region's rich aristocratic past before heading back to relax.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the historic greenery of Prieuré Park, a convenient spot for a peaceful morning break with well-kept paths, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
🚶 32'1.43 km
⛪
10:27 · 50'
Église Saint-Leufroy
Discover the timeless architecture of Église Saint-Leufroy, reflecting the rich local heritage, and take a moment to admire its beautiful stone façade in the morning light.
🚶 26'1.15 km
⛪
11:43 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
Visit the Église du Christ-Ressuscité to appreciate its modern architectural approach, offering a unique spiritual atmosphere, and look for the interesting interior details.
🚶 18'0.76 km
⛪
12:51 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame
Step into Église Notre-Dame to experience its serene ambiance and historical significance, making sure to notice the beautifully preserved stained glass windows inside.
🚶 6'0.16 km
📍
13:47 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Explore the imposing Montataire Castle, a symbol of the town's defensive past, where climbing up the gentle hills rewards you with a wonderful panoramic view of the area.
09:00→15:373.5 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Start your rainy walk in Montataire well-equipped with an umbrella. The park's wet leaves require sturdy waterproof shoes. By noon, take shelter in the historic churches, admiring their stained glass under dramatic skies. The afternoon concludes at the castle, where the thick stone walls provide an excellent retreat from the downpours.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Prieuré Park
The wet greenery is bustling, but pathways can be muddy; wear waterproof boots to safely navigate the park.
🚶 32'1.43 km
⛪
10:27 · 50'
Église Saint-Leufroy
Seek shelter inside to admire the architecture, taking a moment to dry off from the morning showers.
🚶 26'1.15 km
⛪
11:43 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
The modern lines of this church offer a dry respite; keep your umbrella handy as you move between sites.
🚶 18'0.76 km
⛪
12:51 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame
Enjoy the serene atmosphere inside while escaping the rain; the acoustics sound beautiful during a downpour.
🚶 6'0.16 km
📍
13:47 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Explore the imposing interior spaces where the thick walls completely shield you from the rainy and windy weather.
09:00→15:373.5 km walk5 places0/5
Day budget: ≈ 15–21 €Entries 18€ · Transport 0€
Wrap up warmly for a brisk winter walk through Montataire. Frosty mornings in the park are magical but require thermal layers. By midday, the heated interiors of the local churches offer a welcoming pause from the biting cold. Conclude your tour at the castle before 17:00, enjoying the medieval silhouette against the early winter twilight.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Walk the frost-covered paths enjoying the crisp air; a warm scarf and gloves are essential for the chilly morning.
🚶 32'1.43 km
⛪
10:27 · 50'
Église Saint-Leufroy
Step inside to warm your hands and admire the quiet winter light filtering softly through the historic windows.
🚶 26'1.15 km
⛪
11:43 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
Take a brief refuge from the biting cold outside to appreciate the distinct architecture in peaceful solitude.
🚶 18'0.76 km
⛪
12:51 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame
The interior provides another layer of warmth; keep your coat buttoned as you explore the stony outer courtyards.
🚶 6'0.16 km
📍
13:47 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Arrive before sunset to see the fortress bathed in late afternoon glow; the high grounds get very windy in winter.
09:00→17:3415.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 34–46 €Entries 28€ · Transport 12€
Morning: We begin our exploration in the calm and verdant surroundings, taking deep breaths of fresh air while appreciating the town's dedication to its recreational and natural spaces. Midday: The journey shifts towards the historical core, revealing architectural gems and religious sites that have withstood the test of time, offering a glimpse into local heritage. Afternoon: Our adventure takes us higher up towards the town's majestic fortifications, where stunning views and centuries of history converge to create an unforgettable experience. Evening: As the day gently winds down, we conclude with a grand finale at an elegant estate, reflecting on the region's rich aristocratic past before heading back to relax.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Marvel at the grand design of the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, a historical masterpiece located on the outskirts, where checking the visiting hours beforehand is highly recommended.
🚲 41'6.36 km
📍
10:41 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the historic greenery of Prieuré Park, a good spot for a peaceful morning break with well-kept paths, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
🚲 14'1.87 km
⛪
11:40 · 50'
Église Saint-Martin
Take a quiet moment at Église Saint-Martin, an endearing local church surrounded by greenery, which provides a lovely backdrop for photography during your peaceful exploration.
🚲 27'3.94 km
⛪
12:57 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
Visit the Église du Christ-Ressuscité to appreciate its modern architectural approach, offering a unique spiritual atmosphere, and look for the interesting interior details.
🚲 8'0.89 km
📍
13:55 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Explore the imposing Montataire Castle, a symbol of the town's defensive past, where climbing up the gentle hills rewards you with a wonderful panoramic view of the area.
🚲 19'2.67 km
📍
15:34 · 90'
Château de Laversine
Finish your day at the magnificent Château de Laversine, an elegant estate displaying noble heritage, where an afternoon walk around its extensive grounds is truly memorable.
09:00→17:3415.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 34–46 €Entries 28€ · Transport 12€
Cycling Montataire in the rain is an adventure that demands caution. Equip your bike with mudguards and wear a high-visibility rain suit. The wet cobblestones near the churches and castles can be dangerously slippery. Pace yourself, brake early, and use the indoor stops to regularly dry off and warm up throughout the day.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
A well-suited first indoor refuge; secure your bike carefully as the surrounding pavement is slick when wet.
🚲 41'6.36 km
📍
10:41 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Stick to the paved paths to avoid mud getting caught in your wheels; a waterproof saddle cover is a lifesaver.
🚲 14'1.87 km
⛪
11:40 · 50'
Église Saint-Martin
Shake off your rain gear outside before entering this serene sanctuary to admire its architectural details.
🚲 27'3.94 km
⛪
12:57 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
The modern facade looks striking in the rain; take this chance to warm up before the final uphill climbs.
🚲 8'0.89 km
📍
13:55 · 80'
Montataire Castle
The steep approach requires extra care on wet leaves; the fortress gives great shelter and dramatic cloudy views.
🚲 19'2.67 km
📍
15:34 · 90'
Château de Laversine
Arrive carefully as rural roads hold puddles; enjoy the magnificent estate interiors safely away from the showers.
09:00→17:3415.7 km ride6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 34–46 €Entries 28€ · Transport 12€
Winter cycling here requires thermal gloves, thick socks, and good lights, as dusk falls by 17:00. The crisp air makes for an exhilarating ride between the historical monuments. Midday stops at the churches and castles are crucial for regaining body heat. Plan to finish your route before the icy evening frost sets on the roads.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Start your freezing morning in this grand church to admire the stone carvings while getting your blood flowing.
🚲 41'6.36 km
📍
10:41 · 45'
Prieuré Park
The bare winter trees offer stark, beautiful views; watch out for patches of hidden ice on the shaded bike paths.
🚲 14'1.87 km
⛪
11:40 · 50'
Église Saint-Martin
Park your bike and step into the unheated but wind-protected nave to appreciate its quiet, historical dignity.
🚲 27'3.94 km
⛪
12:57 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
A quick, sheltered stop; rub your hands together and keep moving to maintain your core temperature up the hill.
🚲 8'0.89 km
📍
13:55 · 80'
Montataire Castle
The panoramic winter views from the fortress are spectacular, but the biting wind means you shouldn't linger outside long.
🚲 19'2.67 km
📍
15:34 · 90'
Château de Laversine
Aim to reach this magnificent estate by 14:45 so you can comfortably explore before the early twilight limits visibility.
09:00→17:4615.8 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 28–38 €Entries 30€ · Transport 3€
Morning: We begin our exploration in the calm and verdant surroundings, taking deep breaths of fresh air while appreciating the town's dedication to its recreational and natural spaces. Midday: The journey shifts towards the historical core, revealing architectural gems and religious sites that have withstood the test of time, offering a glimpse into local heritage. Afternoon: Our adventure takes us higher up towards the town's majestic fortifications, where stunning views and centuries of history converge to create an unforgettable experience. Evening: As the day gently winds down, we conclude with a grand finale at an elegant estate, reflecting on the region's rich aristocratic past before heading back to relax.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Marvel at the grand design of the Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, a historical masterpiece located on the outskirts, where checking the visiting hours beforehand is highly recommended.
🚗 24'6.36 km
📍
10:24 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Enjoy a relaxing stroll through the historic greenery of Prieuré Park, a good spot for a peaceful morning break with well-kept paths, so bring comfortable walking shoes.
🚗 9'1.87 km
⛪
11:18 · 50'
Église Saint-Martin
Take a quiet moment at Église Saint-Martin, an endearing local church surrounded by greenery, which provides a lovely backdrop for photography during your peaceful exploration.
🚗 16'3.94 km
⛪
12:24 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
Visit the Église du Christ-Ressuscité to appreciate its modern architectural approach, offering a unique spiritual atmosphere, and look for the interesting interior details.
🚗 6'0.76 km
⛪
13:20 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame
Step into Église Notre-Dame to experience its serene ambiance and historical significance, making sure to notice the beautifully preserved stained glass windows inside.
🚗 4'0.16 km
📍
14:14 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Explore the imposing Montataire Castle, a symbol of the town's defensive past, where climbing up the gentle hills rewards you with a wonderful panoramic view of the area.
🚗 12'2.67 km
📍
15:46 · 90'
Château de Laversine
Finish your day at the magnificent Château de Laversine, an elegant estate displaying noble heritage, where an afternoon walk around its extensive grounds is truly memorable.
09:00→17:4615.8 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 28–38 €Entries 30€ · Transport 3€
Driving through Montataire on a rainy day is comfortable and convenient. Park close to the entrances to minimize your exposure to the downpours. By noon, the historical sites offer atmospheric and dry retreats from the weather. In the afternoon, the short drives between the castles ensure you stay warm and dry, making it a perfect rainy-day itinerary.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Dash from your car to the entrance; inside, the dim light perfectly complements the echoing sounds of the rain.
🚗 24'6.36 km
📍
10:24 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Bring an umbrella in the trunk; take a short, careful walk on paved paths rather than heading into the muddy grass.
🚗 9'1.87 km
⛪
11:18 · 50'
Église Saint-Martin
Street parking is nearby; wait out the heaviest downpours in the car before entering to observe the quiet interior.
🚗 16'3.94 km
⛪
12:24 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
Easy access from the road makes this a handy rainy-day stop to stretch your legs without getting soaked.
🚗 6'0.76 km
⛪
13:20 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame
Keep an umbrella handy for the short walk from the parking area to admire the sturdy, protective stone architecture.
🚗 4'0.16 km
📍
14:14 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Drive up the steep hill cautiously in the wet; once inside, the massive fortress walls block out all bad weather.
🚗 12'2.67 km
📍
15:46 · 90'
Château de Laversine
Parking on the estate grounds means minimal rain exposure while you enjoy the opulence of this historic chateau.
09:00→17:4615.8 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 28–38 €Entries 30€ · Transport 3€
A winter road trip through Montataire ensures you stay cozy. Ensure your car battery and heating are reliable for frosty mornings. By midday, transitioning from the warm car to the crisp, freezing air at the historical sites feels incredibly refreshing. Finish your driving tour by 16:30, using your headlights to safely navigate back as the sun sets early.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Leave your coat in the heated car if you're just stepping out for a quick photo, but bundle up for a full interior visit.
🚗 24'6.36 km
📍
10:24 · 45'
Prieuré Park
Park near the entrance to limit time in the freezing wind; a thermos of hot tea in the car is first-rate after this stop.
🚗 9'1.87 km
⛪
11:18 · 50'
Église Saint-Martin
The crisp winter air highlights the stone details; enjoy a blast of the car’s heater as you prepare for the next brief stop.
🚗 16'3.94 km
⛪
12:24 · 50'
Église du Christ-Ressuscité
Pop out quickly to admire the modern facade in the crisp winter light without losing too much of your retained heat.
🚗 6'0.76 km
⛪
13:20 · 50'
Église Notre-Dame
The cold stone interior can be chilling in winter; keep your thickest sweater on during your exploration inside.
🚗 4'0.16 km
📍
14:14 · 80'
Montataire Castle
Drive carefully as the steep castle approach may be icy in the late afternoon; the twilight views from here are striking.
🚗 12'2.67 km
📍
15:46 · 90'
Château de Laversine
Arrive well before sunset to appreciate the estate grounds; switch on your fog lights if winter mists roll over the rural roads.
Sights in the town Montataire (6)
Frequently asked questions
What is the main attraction in Montataire?
The 12th-century Château de Montataire dominates the town, offering a glimpse into the medieval architecture of the Oise region.
How far is Montataire from Paris?
The town is located about 50 km north of Paris and can be reached by train from Gare du Nord in approximately 45 minutes.
Are there green spaces for walks?
The Parc du Prieuré provides spacious paths and is well-suited for family outings or outdoor sports activities.
When does the weekly market take place?
The local market takes place every Sunday morning at Place de la Mairie, offering fresh regional products.
Is the town historically significant?
Montataire has a strong industrial past, particularly in metallurgy, which still defines the townscape today.
Montataire: where is it located?
Montataire is located in Hauts-de-France, France.
Montataire: what is there to see?
Highlights include Montataire Castle, Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, Prieuré Park.
Montataire: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Montataire: why is it worth visiting?
Montataire is located in the Oise department of northern France, serving as a historic and industrial cornerstone of the Creil metropolitan area.
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