Melun fête son Brie
Annual celebration honouring the famous Brie de Melun cheese, with tastings, a regional producers' market and activities around the local cheese tradition.
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Melun
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City
ℹ️Practical info — Melun
▾
🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- Taking the RER D from Paris is highly recommended, as parking near the Île Saint-Étienne is limited.
- Explore the Île Saint-Étienne in the early morning to enjoy its historic charm without the crowds.
- Buy the famous Brie de Melun at the local market rather than specialty tourist shops for a better deal.
- Take a walk along the Seine riverbanks during the late afternoon for a beautiful perspective of the city.
🍽 Food
🍽
Brie de Melun
Taste this robust local cheese at a downtown fromagerie or the weekly market.
🍽
Local Craft Beer
Look for beers brewed in the Seine-et-Marne region at the riverside bistros.
🍽
Classic Brasserie Fare
Enjoy traditional French dishes at the restaurants clustered around Place Saint-Jean.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Gaillardon Market
A bustling local market offering fresh produce and excellent regional cheeses.
🛍
Downtown Cheese Shops
The central streets feature excellent fromageries dedicated to local Brie.
🧘
Seine Riverbanks
Stroll along the riverside paths for a peaceful break from the city center.
🧘
Île Saint-Étienne
This historic island on the Seine gives quiet spots well-suited for a relaxing pause.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
1
Melun is a historic city in the Île-de-France region, located about 40 kilometers southeast of Paris. As the prefecture of the Seine-et-Marne department, it serves as a major administrative hub. The city's roots trace back to antiquity when it was known as Melodunum, originally established by the Gauls on an island in the Seine. During the Middle Ages, it was a favored residence of early French kings, including the Capetian monarchs, who maintained a royal castle there. A key architectural gem is the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame, which dates back to the 11th century and represents a transition between Romanesque and Gothic styles. Melun is globally famous for its culinary heritage, specifically the Brie de Melun cheese, an AOC-protected product known for its robust flavor and traditional production methods. Today, the city is home to the National Gendarmerie's officer school and the National Gendarmerie Museum, which features a comprehensive look at the history of the French police force. With its beautiful riverbanks and proximity to the Fontainebleau forest, Melun remains a vital and attractive part of the Parisian metropolitan area.
- Location: Île-de-France, France
- Top sights: Notre-Dame Collegiate Church · Saint-Sauveur Priory · Saint-Aspais Church
- Nearby: Vert-Saint-Denis (4 km)
- Population: ~45.995
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 | 4 | 7 | 11 | 14 | 18 | 20 | 19 | 16 | 12 | 7 | 4 |
| Rain mm | 53 | 48 | 52 | 41 | 65 | 60 | 55 | 57 | 42 | 59 | 60 | 66 |
Live webcam – Melun
See what it looks like near Melun right now.
Montereau-sur-le-Jard: Melun-A5 près de Melun, Barrière de péage des Eprunes, vue orientée vers Paris · 5.5 km · Open webcam on Windy · Webcams provided by Windy.com
Geography
Facts
- First mentioned by Julius Caesar in: 52 BC
- Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame founded: approx. 1020
- Brie de Melun granted AOC status: 1980
- Total land area: 8.04 square kilometers
- Official postal code: 77000
- Train time to Paris Gare de Lyon: approx. 28 minutes
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
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
A day in the city
Pick weather + travel mode, get a concrete day plan.
09:00→18:043.5 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Start your morning by admiring the flamboyant Gothic details of Saint-Aspais Church in the city center. By midday, cross over to Saint-Étienne Island to explore its historical priory and the striking Notre-Dame Collegiate Church. Spend your afternoon enjoying a leisurely stroll and a relaxing picnic along the scenic Banks of the Seine. Conclude your day diving into unique history at the National Gendarmerie Museum.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Marvel at the intricate flamboyant Gothic facades of this central church, an architectural gem of the city, and walk around the exterior to fully appreciate its unique asymmetric design.
🚶 9'0.32 km
🏛️
10:09 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Stroll through the historic heart of Melun situated on the river, offering a peaceful retreat full of ancient character, and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone pathways.
🚶 4'0.03 km
🏛️
11:33 · 80'
Saint-Sauveur Priory
Explore the ancient remains of this medieval priory that whispers tales of Melun's rich past, and arrive early to photograph the stone arches in the soft morning sunlight.
🚶 8'0.27 km
⛪
13:01 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Admire the striking twin towers of this historic collegiate church on the island, representing early Gothic architecture, and remember to check the choir for ancient carvings.
🚶 22'0.95 km
📍
14:13 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
Enjoy a tranquil walk along the pretty riverbanks that inspired many impressionist painters, and pack some local snacks for an impromptu afternoon picnic by the gentle waters.
🚶 41'1.89 km
🎨
15:54 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
Dive into the fascinating history of the French police force through an extensive collection of uniforms and vehicles, and grab an audio guide to better understand the interactive exhibits.
09:00→18:043.5 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Start your rainy morning seeking shelter in the beautiful Saint-Aspais Church. Around midday, cross carefully to Saint-Étienne Island and the Priory with a sturdy umbrella. Spend the damp afternoon admiring the Collegiate Church and taking a brief, misty stroll along the Seine. End your day inside the vast, dry National Gendarmerie Museum as the rain pours down outside.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Admire the intricate stained glass while staying perfectly dry inside this gothic sanctuary.
🚶 9'0.32 km
🏛️
10:09 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Wear waterproof shoes as the cobblestones and island pathways can get quite slippery during downpours.
🚶 4'0.03 km
🏛️
11:33 · 80'
Saint-Sauveur Priory
Explore the ancient ruins but watch your step on the wet stones and seek cover under nearby arches.
🚶 8'0.27 km
⛪
13:01 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Take refuge from the rain in this magnificent roman-gothic church and marvel at its robust architecture.
🚶 22'0.95 km
📍
14:13 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
Enjoy a moody, atmospheric view of the river, but keep a raincoat handy as the wind picks up here.
🚶 41'1.89 km
🎨
15:54 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
An excellent indoor retreat for the late afternoon, offering fascinating exhibits completely shielded from the weather.
09:00→18:043.5 km walk6 places0/6
Day budget: ≈ 24–32 €Entries 28€ · Transport 0€
Crisp winter mornings start with the warmth of Saint-Aspais Church. Midday offers chilly but beautiful views on Saint-Étienne Island and its historic Priory, so bundle up. As the early afternoon shadows lengthen, visit the Collegiate Church and take a brisk walk along the frosty Seine. Conclude by warming up in the Gendarmerie Museum before the 5 PM sunset.
← swipe for more places →
⛪
09:10 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
The thick stone walls provide excellent insulation from the morning frost as you admire the interior.
🚶 9'0.32 km
🏛️
10:09 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
The winter breeze across the river is biting, so wear a thick scarf and gloves while exploring the island.
🚶 4'0.03 km
🏛️
11:33 · 80'
Saint-Sauveur Priory
The bare trees offer an unobstructed view of these historic ruins, though the exposed area is quite cold.
🚶 8'0.27 km
⛪
13:01 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Step inside to warm your hands and take in the solemn, quiet winter atmosphere of the nave.
🚶 22'0.95 km
📍
14:13 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
A brisk, energizing walk by the icy waters is beautiful, but keep moving to stay warm before dusk.
🚶 41'1.89 km
🎨
15:54 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
A well-suited, well-heated final stop to comfortably explore deep into the afternoon as it gets dark outside.
09:00→17:425.7 km ride7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 37–51 €Entries 32€ · Transport 12€
Kick off your cycling tour by immersing yourself in the engaging exhibits of the National Gendarmerie Museum. Pedal into the heart of Melun to marvel at Saint-Aspais Church before exploring the ancient heart of Saint-Étienne Island. After visiting Notre-Dame, cycle down to Bassin Laure Manaudou and along the Banks of the Seine. Finish your active ride at the Melun Town Hall as the early evening sets in.
← swipe for more places →
🎨
09:10 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
Dive into the fascinating history of the French police force through an extensive collection of uniforms and vehicles, and grab an audio guide to better understand the interactive exhibits.
🚲 9'1.01 km
⛪
10:59 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Marvel at the intricate flamboyant Gothic facades of this central church, an architectural gem of the city, and walk around the exterior to fully appreciate its unique asymmetric design.
🚲 5'0.32 km
🏛️
11:54 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Stroll through the historic heart of Melun situated on the river, offering a peaceful retreat full of ancient character, and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone pathways.
🚲 5'0.27 km
⛪
13:19 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Admire the striking twin towers of this historic collegiate church on the island, representing early Gothic architecture, and remember to check the choir for ancient carvings.
🚲 7'0.73 km
📍
14:16 · 45'
Bassin Laure Manaudou
Unwind by this modern aquatic and family facility named after the famous swimmer, offering a refreshing break, and check the public opening hours in advance if you wish to swim.
🚲 10'1.16 km
📍
15:11 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
Enjoy a tranquil walk along the easy on the eye riverbanks that inspired many impressionist painters, and pack some local snacks for an impromptu afternoon picnic by the gentle waters.
🚲 16'2.23 km
📍
16:27 · 45'
Melun Town Hall
Observe the elegant facade of the local administrative center, reflecting 19th-century bourgeois architecture, and relax on the nearby benches to enjoy the bustling civic atmosphere.
09:00→17:425.7 km ride7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 37–51 €Entries 32€ · Transport 12€
Start your rainy cycling tour under the dry roof of the Gendarmerie Museum. Midday, pedal carefully to Saint-Aspais Church and Saint-Étienne Island, watching out for slippery cobbles. Spend the wet afternoon at the Collegiate Church and the sheltered pool area. Finish with a misty ride along the Seine towards the Town Hall, wearing high-visibility gear.
← swipe for more places →
🎨
09:10 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
Start indoors where it's completely dry, leaving your wet cycling gear in the cloakroom.
🚲 9'1.01 km
⛪
10:59 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Brake early when approaching the church, as the wet pavement around the entrance can be treacherous.
🚲 5'0.32 km
🏛️
11:54 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Dismount if the rain is heavy; the historic bridges and island pathways get very slippery when wet.
🚲 5'0.27 km
⛪
13:19 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Park your bike under nearby trees and seek shelter inside this massive, dry gothic structure.
🚲 7'0.73 km
📍
14:16 · 45'
Bassin Laure Manaudou
A first-rate rainy-day stop, allowing you to enjoy a swim or indoor activities regardless of the weather.
🚲 10'1.16 km
📍
15:11 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
The riverside paths are prone to puddles, so fenders are essential to avoid splashing yourself.
🚲 16'2.23 km
📍
16:27 · 45'
Melun Town Hall
Conclude your damp journey by admiring the impressive facade from under a nearby awning.
09:00→17:425.7 km ride7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 37–51 €Entries 32€ · Transport 12€
Kick off your crisp winter ride inside the heated Gendarmerie Museum. Midday brings bright but freezing weather as you pedal to Saint-Aspais Church and Saint-Étienne Island. During the fast-approaching dusk, warm up at the Collegiate Church and the indoor pool. Enjoy a final chilly sprint along the Seine to the Town Hall before nightfall.
← swipe for more places →
🎨
09:10 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
Warm your muscles inside the heated museum before facing the freezing winter air.
🚲 9'1.01 km
⛪
10:59 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Ensure your bike tires have good grip for possible icy patches on the streets.
🚲 5'0.32 km
🏛️
11:54 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
The wind chill over the bridges is significant; keep your thermal gloves on.
🚲 5'0.27 km
⛪
13:19 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Escape the biting winter wind and admire the quiet, solemn beauty of the interior.
🚲 7'0.73 km
📍
14:16 · 45'
Bassin Laure Manaudou
Thaw out completely, spend some time in the heated indoor pool away from the cold.
🚲 10'1.16 km
📍
15:11 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
The icy river views are memorable, but watch out for frost and keep a brisk pace.
🚲 16'2.23 km
📍
16:27 · 45'
Melun Town Hall
Arrive just before 5 PM to see the building look magical under early evening winter lights.
09:00→17:265.5 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 28–38 €Entries 32€ · Transport 1€
Begin your driving itinerary at the elegant Melun Town Hall before heading to the comprehensive National Gendarmerie Museum. Drive towards the city center to visit the majestic Saint-Aspais Church and park near the historical Saint-Étienne Island. Explore the island's landmarks on foot, then take a short drive to the Bassin Laure Manaudou area. End your day with a peaceful, scenic sunset walk along the beautiful Banks of the Seine.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Melun Town Hall
Observe the elegant facade of the local administrative center, reflecting 19th-century bourgeois architecture, and relax on the nearby benches to enjoy the bustling civic atmosphere.
🚗 10'2.04 km
🎨
10:05 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
Dive into the fascinating history of the French police force through an extensive collection of uniforms and vehicles, and grab an audio guide to better understand the interactive exhibits.
🚗 6'1.01 km
⛪
11:51 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Marvel at the intricate flamboyant Gothic facades of this central church, an architectural gem of the city, and walk around the exterior to fully appreciate its unique asymmetric design.
🚗 4'0.32 km
🏛️
12:45 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Stroll through the historic heart of Melun situated on the river, offering a peaceful retreat full of ancient character, and wear comfortable shoes to navigate the cobblestone pathways.
🚗 4'0.27 km
⛪
14:09 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Admire the striking twin towers of this historic collegiate church on the island, representing early Gothic architecture, and remember to check the choir for ancient carvings.
🚗 5'0.73 km
📍
15:04 · 45'
Bassin Laure Manaudou
Unwind by this modern aquatic and family facility named after the famous swimmer, offering a refreshing break, and check the public opening hours in advance if you wish to swim.
🚗 7'1.16 km
📍
15:56 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
Enjoy a tranquil walk along the scenic riverbanks that inspired many impressionist painters, and pack some local snacks for an impromptu afternoon picnic by the gentle waters.
09:00→17:265.5 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 28–38 €Entries 32€ · Transport 1€
Start your rainy drive at the Town Hall, then head quickly to the dry Gendarmerie Museum. Around midday, drive to Saint-Aspais Church and park close to explore Saint-Étienne Island with an umbrella. Spend the wet afternoon at the Collegiate Church and the indoor pool. Conclude with a scenic, wiper-cleared drive along the banks of the Seine.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Melun Town Hall
Admire the architecture from the comfort of your car, or make a quick dash under nearby awnings.
🚗 10'2.04 km
🎨
10:05 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
Take advantage of nearby parking to quickly step inside this completely rain-free museum complex.
🚗 6'1.01 km
⛪
11:51 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Find a parking spot near the town center so you don't have to walk far in the heavy rain.
🚗 4'0.32 km
🏛️
12:45 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Keep an umbrella in the trunk; the short walks between structures can get quite muddy and wet.
🚗 4'0.27 km
⛪
14:09 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
The thick stone walls provide an excellent acoustic barrier against the sound of the rain outside.
🚗 5'0.73 km
📍
15:04 · 45'
Bassin Laure Manaudou
Leave the gloomy weather behind and enjoy the warm, dry indoor facilities of this aquatic center.
🚗 7'1.16 km
📍
15:56 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
Keep the heater on and the wipers going for a relaxing, moody drive right along the riverbank.
09:00→17:265.5 km drive7 places0/7
Day budget: ≈ 28–38 €Entries 32€ · Transport 1€
Begin your winter drive at the Town Hall, keeping the car heated before visiting the Gendarmerie Museum. Midday offers frosty walks near Saint-Aspais Church and Saint-Étienne Island, so park close. In the chilling afternoon, warm up inside the Collegiate Church and the indoor pool. Finish with an early evening drive along the Seine at sunset.
← swipe for more places →
📍
09:10 · 45'
Melun Town Hall
The frost-covered square looks beautiful; enjoy the view from the warmth of your heated car.
🚗 10'2.04 km
🎨
10:05 · 100'
National Gendarmerie Museum
A great place to spend the freezing morning, offering fully heated, extensive indoor exhibitions.
🚗 6'1.01 km
⛪
11:51 · 50'
Saint-Aspais Church
Watch out for black ice on the roads near the town center when finding a parking spot.
🚗 4'0.32 km
🏛️
12:45 · 80'
Saint-Étienne Island
Bundle up tightly when leaving the car, as the wind chill coming off the river is very sharp.
🚗 4'0.27 km
⛪
14:09 · 50'
Notre-Dame Collegiate Church
Step inside to warm up your hands and face after exploring the cold, exposed historic center.
🚗 5'0.73 km
📍
15:04 · 45'
Bassin Laure Manaudou
Pack your swimwear in the trunk for a warm, relaxing afternoon break from the freezing temperatures.
🚗 7'1.16 km
📍
15:56 · 60'
Banks of the Seine
Take a scenic drive along the water just around 5 PM, turning the icy river beautiful shades of orange.
Sights in the town Melun (8)
Frequently asked questions
What is the culinary specialty of Melun?
Brie de Melun is a world-famous, strong raw-milk cheese with a protected designation of origin.
How far is Melun from Paris?
Melun is located about 40 km southeast of Paris and can be reached by train in 30-50 minutes.
What major attraction is located nearby?
The magnificent Baroque castle Vaux-le-Vicomte is located just 6 km northeast of the city center.
Are there historical churches in Melun?
Yes, the Notre-Dame collegiate church on the Seine island dates back to the 11th century and is a national monument.
When does the weekly market take place?
The large market takes place on Wednesdays and Saturdays at Place Praslin and in the market halls.
Melun: where is it located?
Melun is located in Île-de-France, France.
Melun: what is there to see?
Highlights include Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, Saint-Sauveur Priory, Saint-Aspais Church.
Melun: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Melun: why is it worth visiting?
Melun is a historic city in the Île-de-France region, located about 40 kilometers southeast of Paris.
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