A 57-metre-high bell tower, archaeologically excavated abbey remains and a reconstructed studio boat give Argenteuil a range of distinctive features. Its cultural offerings span Romanesque Revival architecture, connections with Monet and events. If you are looking for a hotel in Argenteuil, first consider which of these perspectives you would like to shape your stay.
Architecture and archaeological traces
The Basilique Saint-Denys is a 19th-century Romanesque Revival basilica designed by Théodore Ballu; its bell tower is 57 metres high. If you are interested in architecture, you can focus on its style, period, design and tower. The basilica is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and admission is free. Individual visits without a guide are possible at any time; guided tours are available on request. Check opening hours before your trip.
The remains of Notre-Dame Abbey bring archaeological traces into focus. They include a crypt, a chapter house, a cloister and a necropolis uncovered through excavations. The different areas give this subject a distinct character from the design of a single basilica. If you would like to distinguish between architecture and archaeological evidence, these offer two clearly separate ways to explore the culture. A chapter house is the meeting room of a monastic community; a cloister is a covered walkway.
Art and connections with Monet
L'Atelier, Jardins de l'Abbaye, presents exhibitions drawn from the collections of the museum and Argenteuil municipal archives. It also offers guided visits, family workshops and concert readings. You can tailor the cultural part of your stay to the format you prefer, such as an exhibition, a guided visit or an event. The current cultural programme may change.
The Maison Impressionniste Claude Monet displays a reconstructed studio boat. It evokes Monet’s practice of painting famous works from the subject while aboard a studio boat. This brings his painting practice into focus. The former Claude Monet residence in Argenteuil also has a leafy, flower-filled and colourful garden with beautiful flower beds. The garden offers a different focus from the studio boat: here, the emphasis is on the garden and flower beds, while there, it is on painting from the subject.
Events and music
La Cave hosts a comedy club with evenings of humour, improvisation and stand-up. If you have a particular evening in mind, check the latest event dates. From September 2024 to January 2025, La Cave’s programme included free events, artist showcases and masterclasses for amateur and professional musicians. During this period, La Cave was a live music venue with concert halls and rehearsal rooms. If La Cave is the deciding factor in your stay, check the latest dates.
Discover more destinations: Vétheuil, Osny, Magny-en-Vexin, Enghien-Les-Bains, L'isle-Adam, Écouen, Bray-Et-Lû, Saint-Ouen-Lʼaumône.
For the broader travel overview: Val-D'oise.
