Hugging the River Seine in the south-west of Paris, Issy-les-Moulineaux is home to several major TV networks in France. Originally known as simply Issy, it was renamed Issy-les-Moulineaux in 1893 after a local hamlet where windmills once stood.
Things to do in Issy-les-Moulineaux
One of Issy-les-Moulineaux’s most unique attractions is the Musée Français de la Carte à Jouer, which celebrates France’s history of card playing. It was established in 1986 based on the collections of Louis Chardonneret and Robert Thissen, with nearly 6,500 playing cards, plus drawings and etchings on display. The museum occupies the former Château d'Issy, with several of its galleries relating the history of the Princes of Conti.
Located in the middle of the River Seine is Ile Saint-Germain Park, a leafy green space that is a popular spot to picnic. In addition to a children’s playground, there is also a pony farm where horse riding lessons are offered. Stroll through the fragrant Lavender Garden and spot frogs in the Unforeseen Garden before admiring the unique “Tour aux Figures” by Jean Dubuffet.
South-west of Issy-les-Moulineaux is the former home and studio of Auguste Rodin, which is open to the public as the Musée Rodin. The famous sculptor purchased the Louis XIII-style brick and stone building in 1895 and it was here that many of his most significant pieces were created. Rodin’s tomb overlooks the Seine Valley in the surrounding gardens.
Getting around Issy-les-Moulineaux
Issy-les-Moulineaux is a 25-minute drive from the centre of Paris and 40 minutes from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Subway services on the Paris Metro Line 12 connect to the Corentin Celton and Marie d’Issy stations while trams travel throughout the commune. Share bicycles are also readily available for getting around.