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10 Great Day Trips from Paris | See the Countryside in France

While Paris is home to many wonderful attractions, sometimes it’s nice to explore the countryside in France! Get tips about some of the best day trips from Paris as well as how to travel in France, and make your next trip unforgettable.

Paris Travel Guide: 10 Great Day Trips from Paris, France

Even though Paris is filled to the brim with amazing attractions to visit, it is good to remember that the rest of France is just waiting to be explored. If you’re a WW II buff, set your sights on beautiful Normandy where the famous D-Day landing happened on Omaha Beach . Or maybe you’re a theme park or Disney fan? France has you covered with both Disneyland Paris and Parc Astérix . Attractions geared toward adults include Loire Valley and the Champagne Wine Region .

Tips for Day Trips from Paris – Know Before You Go

If this is your first time in Paris , then the best thing you can do is get used to riding the Metro. Paris has both regional train services (RER) as well as high-speed trains, and depending on where you want to travel, you may find yourself using both. If you are planning on taking day trips from Paris , these tips will help you navigate through the French countryside with ease.

• Learn some French before you get there. If you are traveling outside of the main city (and, sometimes, even when you are traveling in Paris ), you may find that not everyone speaks English. As French is the official language of France , it’s a good idea to learn a few phrases before you get there and make sure to download a translation application for your phone.
• 24/7 shopping doesn’t exist outside of main cities. For the most part, you will find that the French operate on shorter hours, particularly in rural regions. Plan ahead as businesses often close early.
• Brush up on French culture before you arrive. While the French people have a reputation for being rude, it really comes down to the fact that their expectations for politeness are elevated. For example, asking someone if they speak English without saying hello first is considered rude, and when dining out, the French eat at their leisure, so you’ll likely have to ask for your server’s attention when you’re finished with a meal. Knowing these small details can go a long way toward feeling comfortable in France : simple terms like merci , s’il vous plait, and bonjour (please, thank you, and hello) go a long way also!

Check in to Hotel Relais Bosquet , Step out to Le Repaire de Bacchus Store

Choose a Home Base Close to the Metro

Generally speaking, the closer you are to the core of Paris , the easier it is to travel outside the city. Make things easy for yourself by choosing a neighborhood that is centrally located and then plan your day trips from there.

• The 10th Arrondissement is home to both the Gare de L’Est and Gare du Nord , both of which are major train stations that are a 10-minute walk from each other. This neighborhood also features gorgeous footbridges, great cafés, and world-class food.
• The 13th Arrondissement is home to the Gare D’Austerlitz , another major train station in Paris . The neighborhood also hosts Paris ‘s Chinatown as well as the Bibliothèque Nationale François Mitterrand , the city’s main library.

Check in to Hotel Mayet , Step out to Louvre Museum

1. Let them eat cake! Take an excursion from Paris to the Palace of Versailles

No trip to Paris is complete without a trip to the Versailles castle! This 17th-century palace was once the primary residence of the royal family in France until the start of the French Revolution changed the course of French history. Some famous residents include King Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette. This palace is famously beautiful and, though the furnishings inside were raided during the French Revolution, many of the original pieces have been returned and now reside within the palace where they’ve made an effort to recreate the look and feel of the original view. From its Hall of Mirrors to the private quarters of the King and Queen, to the lavishly decorated and restored rooms that make up the rest of the palace, Versailles is more than worth a visit.

If you are going to be visiting Versailles during the warmer months, be sure to time your visit around one of the “fountain days.” In the gardens of Versailles reside many fountains, but because of costs and in an effort to conserve water, these fountains only run during a certain time of the year and certain times of the day (generally, from the end of March to the end of October). The fountains are typically functional on weekends, Tuesdays (from the end of May to the end of June), with some additional dates for holidays. Check ahead and plan your trip around one of these days for an added bonus as you visit Versailles .

There is much to see and do at Versailles , so be sure to plan your trip ahead of time as it’s easy to spend a lot of time in the palace and then miss out on the smaller landmarks in the area ( Marie Antoinette’s hamlet, the Gallery of Coaches , and more). Ticket prices for the Versailles castle range from $18 euro and up. Some tickets only allow access to the palace, while others open up the entire grounds, so be sure to get the right ticket for your needs. With plenty of dining options and shops on site, enjoy your day at Versailles and make some memories that last a lifetime!

Travel from Paris to the Palace of Versailles

• Getting to Versailles requires you to take a regional train (the RER) from Paris to Versailles . This can be accomplished in a few ways, but the easiest is to find a train station that connects with the RER lines. You will need to take the RER C line to get to Versailles and the stations that connect with this train line in Paris are Les Invalides , Gare d’Austerlitz , Michel-Notre Dame , Musee d’Orsay , Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel , and Pont de l’Alma . From any of these stations, purchase RER tickets to the Versailles-Rive Gauche station (which should be $7 euros or about $10 USD and includes a return ticket), make sure you get to the correct platform (the one that serves the RER C trains), and then get on the train.
• Opt for a tour and take a bus or shuttle from Paris to Versailles . This is an option for individuals who don’t want to navigate through the Paris Metro and RER train.
• Additionally, you can rent a car or take a taxi, but these options will be almost as expensive as taking a tour and may cause you added stress as Paris can be a difficult area to navigate through for tourists.

Check In to Waldorf Astoria Versailles Trianon Palace , Step Out to Palace of Versailles

2. Day Trips from Paris: Kid-friendly and magical, it’s Disneyland Paris

If you live close to California or Florida , then you might be wondering whether going to Disneyland in Europe is worth it. While Disneyland Paris is smaller in scale than the North American Disney attractions, it makes up for it with fun. Because it’s a bit smaller, the attractions aren’t so far apart, which is great news for you if you’re looking to hit up the rides at the park. Another bonus is that the park is also less busy than the North American Disney attractions, which is great news for Disney enthusiasts.

At Disneyland Paris , you may find that you are able to enjoy the rides multiple times, whereas, with the North American Disney attractions, you may only get to go on once, and then wait in lines for the rest of your day. And that’s another thing that’s great about Disneyland Paris because it’s smaller, the crowds are also smaller. This is a park where you can go and enjoy the simple pleasure of being surrounded by Disney sights.

Additionally, Disneyland Paris is less expensive than the North American attractions and they also feature souvenirs that you can’t get anywhere else! If you’re a Disney fan, or if you’re looking for a great place to take the kids that’s outside of the city, then consider a trip out to Disneyland Paris .

Travel from Paris to Disneyland Paris

• Taking the train to Disneyland Paris is the easiest option for visitors. Line A of the RER can take you all the way to Disneyland Paris and the final stop is located right in front of the park, so you don’t have to worry about missing your stop.
• Depending on where you are in the city, you can take the Metro or bus to a train station (either Charles de Gaulle Étoile , Nation , Chatelet Les Halles , Auber , or Gare de Lyon ) and switch over to the RER A line and make sure your train is heading towards Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy.

Check In to Hipark By Adagio Serris Val D Europe , Step Out to Golf Disneyland

3. Day-trips from Paris: Step into the past at Fontainebleau Castle

If there’s one thing France is known for, it’s the amazing palaces and castles that the French royalty used to live in and Fontainebleau Castle is no exception. This remarkable palace served as a royal residence for ruling French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is beautifully preserved today.

Located 34 miles southeast of Paris , Fontainebleau Castle is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and draws in visitors from all over the world. Brilliantly decorated, you really feel like you’re stepping into French history with a visit to Fontainebleau Castle, but more than just the castle itself, the grounds surrounding Fontainebleau Castle are remarkable and offer an English Garden, grotto, a canal, and more for you to explore. If you love French culture and are interested in their Royal history of the area, or if you enjoy French architecture, then a visit to Fontainebleau Castle is a must.

Travel from Paris to Fontainebleau Castle

• From the main Gare de Lyon station, take a train that is destined for Montargis Sens, Laroche-Migennes , or Montereau . Once you arrive at the Fontainebleau-Avon station, get off and look for a bus that’s designated Line one (Ligne 1 – Les Lilas) and disembark at the Château
• You may also opt to travel by coach from Paris and there are plenty of tour groups that offer services from the city. Choose a service that’s within your budget and meets timeframe specifications.

Check In to La Demeure Du Parc , Step Out to Fontainebleau Castle

4. Day trips from Paris: Visit Mont Saint Michel in Normandy

There are plenty of great attractions in Normandy to see, the only hard part is deciding which ones to visit during a day trip. Normandy is home to the island of Mont Saint-Michel , which is a commune and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This island has been a significant point for the region since the 8 th century AD as it was unreachable during high tide, which made it a great location for defense. People travel from all over to visit this beautiful island, which is home to Mont Saint Michel Abbey. This commune also is famous for its food, and when you are in town, you absolutely have to head to La Mère Poulard to try one of their omelets. Between the beautiful views, great food, and stunning landmarks, make sure to add Mont Saint-Michel to your list of day trips from Paris .

Travel from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel

• Purchase a ticket for Mont Saint-Michel and depart from the Gare Saint-Lazare station in Paris .
• Alternatively, you can also depart from the Gare de l’Est station, with the arrival also being in Mont Saint-Michel .

Check In to Mouton Blanc Hotel , Step Out to Tombelaine

5. Day trips from Paris: Enjoy all the attractions at Parc Astérix

If you’re a theme-park enthusiast or are looking for some family-friendly day trips from Paris , then consider taking a trip to Parc Astérix . This theme park is dedicated to the characters of the Asterix comics, which are very popular in France and in many places around the world, but even if you’re not familiar with the French Comic series, this park is popular in its own right as it sees nearly 2 million annual visitors.

This is a great location for summertime visits as the park has several attractions that operate in the water, which can be a great way to cool off during the heat. This park is located in the historic Picardy region, which is famous for its wine, beauty, and beaches. With so much to do in this area, a trip to Parc Astérix might just be the thing that you and your family have been looking for!

Here are some details about Parc Astérix for first-time visitors:

• Boasts shorter lines and less of a wait than at Disneyland Paris .
• Lots of on-site dining options to choose from.
• Great rollercoasters to enjoy, as well as attractions that appeal to kids.
• Often has free admission for kids under 12 with an accompanying adult (check their schedule and deals before you purchase tickets).
• Fast passes for rides can be purchased so you are able to skip to the front of the line for some of the more popular attractions.

Travel from Paris to Parc Astérix

• Take the RER train from Paris from the Gare du Nord station to the Charles de Gaulle Airport . From the airport, follow the directions to Parc Astérix and you should end up at a shuttle for the park.
• Additionally, there are bus services that run from Paris , though they often leave early in the day and may come back before you want to leave the park.

Check In to Fasthotel Roissy – Saint-Witz , Step Out to Saint-Witz

6. Day Trips from Paris: Grand gardens & a beautiful castle await at Vaux-le-Vicomte

The Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle is a baroque castle in Maincy and has been a popular set location for many movies and TV shows over the years. You may even recognize it from the TV series Versailles . With its beautiful symmetry that was worked into the design of the castle, this is an architectural marvel that is worth seeing in person. The castle itself is surrounded by a moat and can only be reached by bridges, which is quite the sight to behold. The formal French gardens on the grounds were a source of inspiration for the grounds at Versailles and make for a beautiful place to explore.

If you are visiting the area during a major holiday, then there may even be some events planned at the castle. During Easter, the Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle puts on a huge Easter egg hunt in the gardens and, on every Saturday from May to October, the castle and gardens are lit up by 2000 candles – which is sure to be a sight that you’ll never forget. As one of the few remaining castles that is entirely decorated with historically appropriate household items and furnishings, stepping into the Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle is like stepping back in time. Plan a visit to this remarkable landmark as one of your day trips from Paris .

Travel from Paris to Vaux-le-Vicomte

• From the Gare de l’Est station in Paris , take a direct line (Line P) towards Provins and then disembark at the Verneuil l’Etang From the station, there should be a shuttle that can take you the rest of the way to the castle.

Check In to Hôtel Les Poteaux Carrés , Step Out to Cret de Roc

7. Day Trips from Paris: Drink Bubbly in the Champagne Wine Region

Champagne lovers rejoice and take a visit to this region that shares its name with the famous, bubbly wine. France is known for being one of the world-leaders for wine production and, with so many regions bearing testament to their winemaking abilities, it really is one of the best places in the world to visit if you consider yourself to be a wine fan. Make your way to the Champagne Region and take a tour to sample this famous drink, right in its birthplace.

This region has been making wine since the middle ages, and that activity has continued into today. Only wine that has been made in his region is allowed to bear the name “champagne,” as similar wine made outside of this region is generally considered to be “sparkling wine.” With a reputation for wine excellence, and framed by a stunningly beautiful landscape, the Champagne Region makes for a perfect day trip from Paris .

Travel from Paris to the Champagne Wine Region

• The Champagne Region is located about 2 hours outside of Paris and can be reached by either the regional train or a high-speed train, though the high-speed option will cost more.
• Take the train from the Gare de l’Est station in Paris to Reims .

Check In to Holiday Inn Reims Centre , Step Out to the Towers of Reims Cathedral

8. Day trips from Paris: WW II Memorials, Monet, & More in Normandy

Located in northern France , Normandy is a popular tourist destination for people who are interested in WW2 as it is the site of the D-Day landing (at Omaha Beach ), but it is also a beautiful region that is known for its seafood, as well as it’s beautiful cliffs.

Normandy is also where artist Claude Monet received much of his inspiration for his work from and his house still remains in Giverny today. Why not stop by and see the gorgeous landscape that inspired the famous Impressionist artist? Whether you’re in the area to make a pilgrimage to either Mont Saint-Michel , Claude Monet’s home, or to learn more about WWII history, there’s plenty to do and see in this beautiful region – you may even find that you end up wanting to extend your stay beyond a day trip!

Travel from Paris to Normandy

• The train ride from Paris to Normandy takes just over 2 hours for the fastest route, so plan for an early departure to maximize your time in the region.
• Purchase a ticket for Bayeux and depart from the Gare Saint-Lazare station in Paris .
• If you are looking to explore the area thoroughly, it might be a good idea to rent a car once you’re in the region, as getting from place to place in the area can be a challenge with public transit.

Check In to Hotel Le Lion D’Or et Restaurant La Table Du Lion , Step Out to Museum of the Battle of Normandy

9. Day Trips from Paris: Head out to Étretat on the north coast of France

Another stunning location in Normandy is Étretat . Located along the north coast of France , Étretat is known for its gorgeous white cliffs and stunning rock formations.

People from all over the world travel to the region to see the Porte d’Aval arch and L’Aiguille rock formations and Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde , which boasts stunning views of the crystalline water – a must-see for any budding photographer. Normandy is a stunning area where history, culture, and nature combine, so be sure to add Étretat and the rest of Normandy to your to-do list in France .

Travel from Paris to Étretat

• Take the train from Gare de Paris – St-Lazare train station to the Gare de Bréauté-Beuzeville From the Gare de Bréauté-Beuzeville , take a bus to Étretat Mairie , and you will have arrived.
• Another alternative to taking public transit in the region is to rent a car once you’ve left the busy, city area of Paris . If you have access to your own vehicle, it can be easier to get around the Normandy area and see more sites if you can drive yourself.

Check In to Domaine de L’Hostreiere , Step Out to Omaha Beach Memorial Museum

10. Paris day trips: Enjoy the wine and the view in the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is one of the most beautiful regions in France and well worth a visit if you’re looking for a great day trip from Paris . Located in central France , Loire Valley is about 132 miles away from Paris and is easily accessible by train.

Known for its stunning castles, beautiful towns, and gorgeous cathedrals; there’s a reason that the French elite made this area their play place. In addition to the history, this region is also known for its delicious wine, so if you’re at all a wino, a visit to the Loire Valley is a must. The Loire Valley is also a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the largest World Heritage Site in France , so while you’re in the area, why not choose from one of its famous wine chateaus and sample from what the France has to offer?

Travel from Paris to the Loire Valley

• From the Gare Montparnasse , take the train to Tours in the Loire Valley and explore from there. The ride should take about an hour and a half.
• You can also take the bus from Paris , but it will take much longer (just over 4 hours) and won’t be very convenient if you’re looking to explore the area in a day, as you will spend much of your time on the bus.

Check In to Seven Urban Suites Nantes Centre , Step Out to Île de Nantes

Available transportation options for day trips from Paris

While transportation in Paris can be most easily accomplished by using the Metro, your options for transportation will change during day trips outside of the city, though some locations can be reached in conjunction with a Metro and RER (regional train) combination. Get used to using the Metro in Paris and, once you decide to explore outside of the city, you will find that your experience with the Metro will help you get around outside of the city as well.

• France is very well connected by train. Even in Paris , you may find yourself making use of the RER during your journeys, especially if you are making your way to Disneyland Paris or Versailles . These regional train lines open up the areas surrounding Paris wonderfully and make getting from one point to another easy.
• Paris also has access to bullet trains. If you are looking to go a little further on your day trip, say to Normandy or beyond, then you may find yourself taking a high-speed rail train to these areas. Traveling at speeds in excess of 200 miles per hours, these trains can get you where you need to be as quick as possible. Though tickets for the high-speed trains are generally more expensive, the cost can be worth it if you’re looking to take in as many sites as possible.
• Hold on to your validated ticket! Don’t lose your ticket stub once you enter the train (or Metro). On the RER trains and especially during longer trips, staff will generally make their way through the train cars as they are checking for validated tickets. If you don’t have yours on you, you run the risk of getting a ticket! Put your train ticket somewhere safe and get ready to show it when staff comes by.
• Thieves work on trains! Don’t put your bags out of your sight, in fact, it’s best to hold onto your things and don’t carry any irreplaceable valuables with you during your excursions out. Pickpockets work in Paris on public transit and in the trains, so hold your things tight (or invest in some handy bags that have built-in locks) and don’t let your bags out of your sight.
• Taxis are available, but they will cost you! There are plenty of taxis available in Paris , but this option will cost you an arm and a leg if you’re planning on relying on taking taxis to destinations outside of the city. Taxis are great for short distances in Paris , but if you are traveling further, then look into either the RER or a high-speed train as you will likely save some money.
• Ridesharing is an option in Paris. If you are looking for a quick way to get to a station in the city, and don’t want to take the Metro, then ridesharing is an option for you. Both Uber and Lyft, as well as other ridesharing services, operate in Paris , so if you need a quick way to get to the train station, consider using a ridesharing
• Renting a car is also an option. While driving outside of Paris is relatively simple, driving in the city can be a nightmare. Paris is very busy with traffic and, with all the pedestrian-only areas, it can be a challenge to navigate. If you are planning on renting a car to visit the countryside, it can be a good idea to book your car rental somewhere just outside of the city limits so you can avoid Paris ‘s nightmare traffic situation.
• When in doubt, book a tour! Skip worrying about transportation altogether and book a tour. There are plenty of tours available to book in France, so choose the options that work best for your needs. These tours often work in food, as well as transportation, and guides, so you may find that you enjoy the experience more than going it alone.
• Don’t be afraid to ask your hotel for help! Your hotel is there to help. Sometimes, your concierge or guest services can even help you find an appropriate tour package, or make recommendations concerning transportation – so don’t be afraid to ask!

Check in to Hotel Beaugrenelle Tour Eiffel , Step Out to the Eiffel Tower

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Discover the Best 15 Day Trips from Paris: Exploring the French Countryside

Are you vacationing in France and wish to uncover the hidden gems just beyond the romantic allure of Paris ? There are so many wonderful locations worth exploring in France beyond Paris that include unforgettable side quests, exploring picturesque landscapes and historic towns.

While Paris dazzles with its iconic landmarks , sometimes, you crave a break from the bustling city. Imagine trading the Eiffel Tower’s view for rolling vineyards, medieval castles, and serene gardens, all within a day’s reach.

In this guide, I’ll be your virtual tour guide, revealing the top 15-day trips from Paris , catering to history buffs, nature lovers, and foodies alike.

Let’s escape the city buzz and dive into a Parisian adventure!

WHAT IS COVERED IN THIS ARTICLE?

Exploring Beyond Paris: Memorable Day Trips from Paris

Day trips from Paris are the ideal itinerary addition, offering diverse experiences. You can explore the following nearby countryside for scenic beauty and cultural immersion.

1. Versailles: Visit the Palace of Opulence

Imagine stepping into a world where opulence knows no bounds, where history’s grandeur is etched into every corner. If you like the sound of it, then the Palace of Versailles is a perfect day trip from Paris for you. Here, you can enjoy a journey through time and luxury.

The Palace of Versailles is a testament to the extravagant lifestyle of French royalty, a place where kings and queens once reveled in unmatched luxury. So, if you are a history buff who enjoys reading about royalty, this is the perfect place to immerse yourself in their world.

Here, you can explore its lavish chambers, walk the revered Hall of Mirrors, and delve into centuries of history and art. The Gardens of Versailles, with their sprawling beauty, provide a tranquil escape, perfect for relaxation and reflection.

How to Get to Versailles: The best way to reach Versailles from Paris is via train. The travel cost by train can range from 3 to 10 Euros. Make sure that you purchase tickets in advance to skip the long lines and consider guided tour packages for a deeper understanding of this historical gem.

Another way to reach Versailles from Paris is via taxi, with an approximate cost ranging from 18 to 30 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Versailles: The journey from the heart of Paris to Versailles takes a mere 15 minutes by train and approximately 20 minutes by taxi.

2. Giverny: Visit Monet’s Artistic Haven

For another perfect day trip from Paris, head to Giverny , a picturesque village not far away. Here, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Claude Monet, experiencing both his life and artistry.

Here, you can explore the very home where the master painter lived and worked, and stroll through the enchanting gardens that inspired some of his most renowned masterpieces. So, if you are a fan, this place must be on your itinerary as Giverny is a living canvas that encapsulates Monet’s artistic genius.

You can also go on a tour of Monet’s House and Gardens. In this tour, you can explore his charming house, preserved to reflect his life in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Wander through the vibrant gardens, meticulously designed with an artist’s eye, where every corner is a work of art in itself.

Apart from that, Giverny is abundant with exquisite natural beauty. You can truly experience magic here as you gaze upon Giverny’s water lily ponds, which were immortalized in Monet’s paintings. Surrounded by the iconic water lilies in these tranquil ponds, let the colors and serenity of this place transport you back in time to the heart of Impressionism!

How to Get to Giverny from Paris: The best way to reach Giverny from Paris is via a combination of train and bus ride. First, take a train from Paris St Lazare to Vernon, and then transfer to Vernon Île De France, Giverny. This will cost you from 11 to 22 Euros.

Another option is taking a bus to Giverny, which could cost you around 5 to 7 Euros. If you want to reach here as quickly as possible, consider taking a taxi, which would cost you between 120 to 150 Euros. If you can afford it, it’s a convenient choice!

Time from Paris City to Reach Giverny: The travel time by train and bus combination averages 1 hour and 15 minutes. If you choose to travel by bus only, it will take around 2 hours and 15 minutes. The fastest and priciest way to reach Giverny is by taxi, which takes approximately 45 minutes.

3. Mont Saint-Michel: Visit France’s Magical Island

Imagine visiting a place straight out of a fairytale a stunning island crowned with a medieval abbey and encircled by ethereal beauty. If you like the idea, then add Mont Saint-Michel to your Parsian itinerary. It is a must-visit destination within reach of Paris with its marvels of nature and human ingenuity.

In Mont Saint-Michel, you can explore lovely architectural gems and natural wonders. As you approach the island, its silhouette rising dramatically from the bay, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook. A visit to the abbey, perched atop the rocky pinnacle, is a must as it will leave you captivated by its timeless beauty.

Here, at Mont Saint-Michel, as you ascend the winding paths to reach the medieval abbey, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. You can also explore its halls and chapels where monks once lived and prayed. From the abbey’s terraces, you can even enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding bay, where the tides create a constantly changing landscape.

Beneath the abbey, you can go exploring the picturesque village of Mont Saint-Michel. This lovely village is full of quaint shops, narrow streets, and cozy cafes. Also, don’t forget to explore the surrounding salt marshes and sandbanks, home to diverse flora and fauna!

How to get to Mont Saint-Michel from Paris: The best way to reach Mont Saint-Michel from Paris is via train. First, take a 2-hour train from Paris to nearby cities like Rennes or Caen. This train ride is followed by a bus or taxi to the island, which can take approximately 2 hours. The entire trip would cost you between 3 to 50 Euros one way, approximately.

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, you can complete the entire trip by bus. It would cost you only 22 to 35 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Mont Saint-Michel: If you decide to travel via both train and bus, then your total travel time is 4 to 5 hours, depending on train and bus timings. If you decide to travel via bus only, then your travel time would be approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes.

4. Château de Chantilly: A Romantic Escape

Imagine visiting a place where you get to experience history, art, and romance intertwine a hidden gem just a short journey from Paris! Château de Chantilly is your ideal destination for a day trip from Paris. With its enchanting beauty, Château de Chantilly invites you to embark on a journey back in time and discover how quickly you can whisk yourself away from the bustling heart of Paris to this romantic haven.

At Château de Chantilly, you get to explore this elegant château, nestled within a vast forested estate. It houses a remarkable collection of art, manuscripts, and antique books. You can also delve into its opulent rooms, where the grandeur of the past comes to life, and witness the mesmerizing art collections that have enchanted visitors for centuries.

Moreover, you can view masterpieces by renowned artists such as Raphael and Delacroix, immersing yourself in Chantilly’s rich cultural legacy. If you’re an art enthusiast or a history buff, a visit to The Condé Museum within the château, home to many treasures, will be a delightful experience.

Don’t skip strolling through Chantilly’s gardens that are a testament to French landscaping expertise. Château’s beautifully manicured lawns, fountains, and romantic canals create a tranquil ambiance and stunning vistas that are perfect to create some romantic memories!

How to get to Château de Chantilly from Paris: You can easily reach here by taking a train from Paris Nord to Chantilly – Gouvieux, where you can grab a taxi to reach the chateau. The train journey alone would cost you between 4 to 15 Euros, excluding the taxi fare from the train station.

Alternatively, you can take a taxi, which will cost you approximately 90 to 140 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Château de Chantilly: If you decide to take the train, you can reach here within an hour. If you take a taxi, you can reach here in approximately 35 minutes.   

Tip: Plan your visit during a weekday to avoid crowds and consider purchasing a combined ticket for the château and its gardens.

5. Normandy: Visit the D-Day Beaches and Beyond

The next place for the best day trips from Paris is Normandy , where you can see history unfold on solemn shores, quaint towns whisper tales of artistry, and experience culinary delights tantalize the senses. A visit to Normandy is a must for you while in Paris, as it’s an expedition that seamlessly blends poignant history, exploration, and indulgence.

In Normandy, you get to enjoy a unique world that embodies an evocative blend of history and beauty. Here, you can start your day with a pilgrimage to the D-Day Beaches, honoring the bravery of those who landed on these shores in 1944. Then, you can explore the museums and memorials that chronicle the gripping stories of valor.

After that, you can explore Honfleur’s postcard-worthy streets, where artists once found inspiration in the town’s maritime charm. Finally, you should treat your taste buds to Norman delights, a culinary adventure of cheese, apples, seafood, and spirits.

Don’t skip on this experience, as Normandy is a journey through time and flavors that captivates all who visit!

How to get to Normandy from Paris: You can easily reach here by taking a train that would cost you between 28 to 50 Euros.

Alternatively, you can take a bus, which will cost you approximately 13 to 21 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Normandy: The time to reach Normandy from Paris by both means is the same – 2 hours and 15 minutes. However, I recommend taking a train, as bus timings can be tricky, and you might accidentally book a ride on a bus for the following day at the same fare.

6. Loire Valley: Visit the Valley of Castles and Wine

Another great destination for the perfect day trip from Paris is the Loire Valley . Located in the heart of France, this place seems like a realm straight out of fairy tales a place where majestic castles stand sentinel over vineyard-clad landscapes, and every cobblestone seems to whisper secrets of a bygone era! At The Loire Valley, you are promised a journey into intriguing history, awe-striking architecture, and the world of fine wine.

You must visit the Loire Valley as it is going to enchant you with its storybook charm. Here, you can explore magnificent châteaux that rival Cinderella’s palace, each with its own unique character and historical significance. You get to dive into the opulence of Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture.

Then, you can go and indulge in wine tastings amidst vineyards that produce some of France’s most exquisite wines. The Loire Valley is a testament to France’s cultural richness, a treasure trove of experiences awaiting discovery and that’s why you must add it to your Parisian Itinerary.

How to get to Loire Valley from Paris: You can easily reach here by taking a train that would cost you between approximately 43 to 64 Euros. It is 187 km away from Paris, so it can be reached by train easily, whereas a taxi is not a feasible option.

Time from Paris City to Reach Loire Valley: By taking a train, you can reach your destination in 1 hour and 45 minutes.

7. Provins: Visit France’s Medieval Gem

The next perfect day trip from Paris is Provins . Imagine yourself in a place where time stands still, where cobblestone streets wind through centuries-old architecture, and where medieval history comes alive. If you like the sound of that, start planning for an amazing day trip to Provins while in Paris!

You must visit Provins and explore this living testament to the grandeur of medieval Europe. Its well-preserved streets, half-timbered houses, and fortified walls transport you to a bygone era. Here, you can view its ancient city walls and towers, climb the iconic Tour César for panoramic views. If your timing is right, you would even get to immerse yourself in the vibrant medieval festivals that bring history to life.

Provins offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the magic of a medieval town and that’s why you shouldn’t hesitate to add this place to your list of possible day trips while vacationing in Paris.

How to get to Provins from Paris: The best way to reach Provins from Paris is by taking a train, which would cost you approximately 7 to 10 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs 5 to 8 Euros. However, taking a train is a much more straightforward option, while the bus route involves transferring between buses.

Time from Paris City to Reach Provins: If you decide to travel via train, you can reach your destination within 1 and a half hours. Alternatively, if you choose to take the bus, your travel time would be approximately 2 and a half hours.

8. Chartres: Visit the Cathedral of Splendor

The next place on the list of best day trips from Paris is to Chartres . Located In the heart of France, Chartres Cathedral lies like a mesmerizing masterpiece that transcends time and captivates all who behold it. You should visit here to enjoy the tranquil French countryside where this masterpiece lies transcending time, faith, and artistry.

With its towering spires and kaleidoscope of stained glass, Chartres Cathedral stands as a beacon of human achievement. You must visit this remarkable place to explore its labyrinthine secrets, savor the local cuisine, and receive practical tips for an enriching day trip.

Here, you can delve into its hallowed halls, where the labyrinth offers a path to reflection, and the stained-glass windows narrate biblical tales in breathtaking hues. Chartres is a living museum of faith and art, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its splendor.

How to get to Chartres from Paris: The best way to reach Chartres from Paris is by taking a train, which would cost you approximately 12 to 23 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs 15 to 22 Euros.

There is another option to reach here, and that is by rideshare. It would cost you only 5 to 6 Euros, making it the cheapest option.

Time from Paris City to Reach Chartres: If you take the train, you can reach your destination in 1 and a half hours. If you choose to take the bus, your travel time would be approximately 2 and a half hours. By rideshare, your travel time is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.

9. Fontainebleau: Enjoy A Royal Retreat

Another great place for a day trip from Paris is Fontainebleau , where you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a world where centuries of French history come to life, where grandeur meets nature’s tranquility, and where a royal château holds the secrets of kings and emperors.

At Fontainebleau’s Château, you can soak in its rich history, which once served as a retreat for French monarchs, including Napoleon and Louis XIV. You will be simply awed by the grandeur and artistry of the château, which are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Beyond the château, you can also explore Fontainebleau Forest, which beckons nature enthusiasts with its hiking trails and rock-climbing opportunities.

Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature seeker, Fontainebleau promises a multi-faceted day trip experience!

How to get to Fontainebleau from Paris: The best way to reach Fontainebleau from Paris is by taking a train, which would cost you approximately 5 to 18 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs 5 to 7 Euros. If you prefer a taxi, it will cost you between 120 and 150 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Fontainebleau: By train, you can reach your destination in about 1 hour. By bus, your travel time would be approximately 1.5 hours. Via taxi, your travel time would be less than 1 hour.

10. Reims: Enjoy Champagne and Cathedrals

If you want to spend a day where sparkling champagne flows freely, centuries-old cathedrals touch the sky, and every corner whispers tales of grandeur, then Reims is the perfect place for your day trip from Paris. Nestled in the heart of the Champagne region, Reims invites you to explore its effervescent charm, where luxury, tradition, and history converge in a single glass of bubbly.

You must visit Reims and enjoy the world’s finest champagne, offering an exclusive opportunity to taste the legendary drink at renowned houses. Moreover, you can explore its grand cathedral, where French kings were crowned, showcasing the pinnacle of Gothic architecture.

Whether you’re a champagne enthusiast, a history buff, or someone in search of luxury, Reims promises an unforgettable experience!

How to get to Reims from Paris: The best way to reach Reims from Paris is by taking a train, which would cost you approximately 30 to 65 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs 20 to 38 Euros, or opt for ridesharing for only 8 to 10 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Lille: By train, you can reach your destination in about 45 minutes. If you choose to take the bus, your travel time would be approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes, while ridesharing would take around 2 hours.

11. Disneyland Paris: Visit the Land Where Dreams Come to Life

Another fantastic recommendation for an unforgettable day trip from Paris is Disneyland Paris . Here, your beloved Disney characters come to life, and where the magic of childhood dreams knows no bounds. You must visit Disneyland Paris and experience Disney magic.

It is a playground of imagination for visitors of all ages. Here, you can go on thrilling rides, watch captivating shows, enchanting parades, and meet-and-greets with beloved characters. You can have an immersive experience that’s nothing short of enchanting.

Whether you’re a Disney fan, a family seeking adventure, or simply looking to relive childhood memories, Disneyland Paris promises a day filled with joy and magic!

How to get to Disneyland Paris from the Paris City: The best way to reach Disneyland Paris is by taking a bus, which would cost you approximately 2 to 8 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a train, which costs 4 to 6 Euros. If it fits within your budget, you can also opt for a taxi ride, which would cost you somewhere between 80 to 95 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Disneyland Paris: By both bus and train, you can reach your destination in about 40 minutes. If you choose to take a taxi, your travel time would be approximately 30 minutes.

12. Rouen: Visit To Where History and Art Collide

Next on our list is Rouen , a city where history echoes through cobblestone streets, majestic cathedrals reach for the heavens, and Impressionist art comes to life through vibrant brushstrokes. If the idea of this enchanting blend appeals to you, let’s explore why Rouen stands out as the perfect day trip from Paris.

Rouen boasts a remarkable array of stunning cathedrals, including the iconic Rouen Cathedral, which draws inspiration from Monet’s masterpieces. As you wander through the city’s medieval streets, you’ll find yourself transported back in time, while the burgeoning art scene adds a contemporary twist. Only by visiting Rouen can you truly appreciate its status as a treasure trove of history, culture, and art.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or simply seeking a taste of authentic French life, Rouen promises an enriching day trip experience.

How to get to Rouen from Paris: The best way to reach Rouen is by taking a bus, which will cost you approximately 8 to 18 Euros. Alternatively, you can opt for a train, with prices ranging from 18 to 35 Euros. Another cost-effective option is ridesharing, which comes in at only 7 to 9 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Rouen: Both the bus and train will get you to your destination in about 1 hour and 20 minutes, ensuring a quick and efficient journey. If you choose ridesharing, please note that your travel time may be approximately 2 hours, offering a slightly longer but still affordable transportation alternative.

13. Champagne Wine Region: Visit to Sparkling Elegance

The next place I highly recommend for a day trip from Paris is the Champagne Wine Region . Here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by rolling vineyards that stretch as far as the eye can see, with the air filled with the tantalizing aroma of grapes. Every sip of wine you take carries the essence of celebration. If you appreciate destinations where elegance and effervescence come together, this trip is perfect for you.

You simply must visit the Champagne Wine Region and discover for yourself why it is synonymous with luxury and celebration. Here, you can explore the places where the world’s most renowned sparkling wine is crafted and embark on captivating tours of esteemed champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon and Dom Pérignon.

Additionally, you can explore picturesque vineyards, charming villages, and scenic landscapes that enhance the region’s allure. Whether you’re a wine aficionado, a romantic at heart, or a traveler seeking a taste of opulence, Champagne promises an unforgettable day trip experience!

How to get to Champagne Wine Region from Paris: The best way to reach the Champagne Wine Region from Paris is by taking a train to Épernay and then arranging for a taxi from there. The taxi ride would typically cost you approximately 39 to 58 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Champagne Wine Region: The entire journey, including the train and taxi rides combined, will get you to your destination in approximately one and a half hours.

14. Auvers-sur-Oise: Get A Glimpse into Van Gogh’s World

If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll understand the excitement of visiting a place where the vibrant colors of Van Gogh’s masterpieces come to life, charming cottages dot picturesque landscapes, and the spirit of artistic genius lingers in the air. That’s why Auvers-sur-Oise makes for an incredible day trip from Paris.

It is a small village immortalized by Vincent Van Gogh’s iconic paintings, inviting you to step into the world of the celebrated artist. Here, you can stroll through the very landscapes that inspired Van Gogh, explore the village’s artistic heritage, and pay homage to the artist at his final resting place.

Auvers-sur-Oise offers you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of Vincent Van Gogh, and that’s why I recommend adding this place to the top of your list for the best day trips from Paris!

How to get to Auvers-sur-Oise from Paris: The best way to reach Auvers-sur-Oise from Paris is by taking a train, which would cost you approximately 5 to 18 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs 5 to 11 Euros. If you prefer a taxi, it will cost you between 120 and 150 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Auvers-sur-Oise: By train, you can reach your destination in about 1 hour. By bus, your travel time would be approximately 1.5 hours. Via taxi, your travel time would be less than 1 hour.

15. Lille: Visit the Tapestry of French Culture

The final ideal place for a day trip from Paris is Lille . If you appreciate cities with centuries of history, culture, and creativity, then Lille is a great day trip destination for you. Nestled in the northern reaches of France, Lille beckons you with its vibrant energy and rich heritage.

Here, you can explore the unique blend of French and Flemish influences that make Lille a city of cultural richness, just a short train ride away from the heart of Paris. You can visit its architectural marvels, such as the Grand Place and Palais des Beaux-Arts, which provide glimpses into its history.

Its burgeoning art scene and culinary delights reveal its contemporary spirit, an experience you must not miss. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a foodie seeking culinary adventures, Lille promises an enriching day trip experience!

How to get to Lille from Paris: The best way to reach Lille from Paris is by taking a train, which would cost you approximately 27 to 80 Euros. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which costs 14 to 27 Euros.

Time from Paris City to Reach Lille: By train, you can reach your destination in about 1 hour. If you choose to take the bus, your travel time would be approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.

Essential Tips for Planning Day Trips

1. Understanding Logistics and Transportation Options: Begin your day trip planning by getting familiar with transportation logistics. Research train schedules, ticket prices, and station locations, especially in major cities like Paris. Decide whether driving, public transport, or guided tours suit your destination and preferences.

2. Weather Considerations for Day Trips: Always check the weather forecast for your day trip spot. Dress accordingly and pack essentials like sunscreen, umbrellas, or jackets, depending on the expected conditions. Being prepared for the weather ensures a comfortable experience, whether it’s sunny or rainy.

3. Packing Essentials for a Comfortable Day: Efficient packing is crucial. Bring along comfy shoes, a reusable water bottle, snacks, a camera or smartphone, chargers, and necessary IDs or tickets. Travel light but be ready for any surprises!

4. Time Management and Realistic Expectations: Plan your day trip carefully, factoring in travel time and destination hours of operation. Set achievable goals for your day, leaving room for spontaneity. Keep an eye on the clock to ensure you return on schedule.

These essential tips will enhance your day trip from Paris to anywhere in Paris, making it stress-free and enjoyable while maximizing your time away from your base city. Proper planning ensures that your limited time is well-spent and filled with memorable experiences!

Discovering the charm of day trips from Paris is like unveiling hidden treasures. Each journey, whether to Versailles, Giverny, Mont Saint-Michel, or elsewhere, offers a unique facet of France’s beauty and culture. These experiences enrich your Parisian adventure, leaving you with lasting memories of exploration and wonder.

Don’t you just dream of discovering fantastic places in France that aren’t just beautiful but also a short hop from Paris?

If you’ve enjoyed reading about these top 15-day trips from Paris , make sure to explore our other travel inspiration blogs. And if you’ve got an exciting adventure to share, please leave a comment – we’d absolutely love to hear from you!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What cities near Paris to visit?

Cities near Paris to visit include Versailles, Giverny, Chartres, Chantilly, Provins, Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy, and the Loire Valley.

Which cities are closest to Paris by train?

The closest cities to Paris by train are Versailles, Chartres, Giverny, and Brussels (Belgium).

What cities is Paris close to?

Paris is close to cities like London, Brussels, Amsterdam, and various French cities like Lyon, Bordeaux, and Strasbourg.

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A Parisian Adventure: Planning the Perfect Day Trip From Paris

Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history, or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities

Camilla Amadi • Apr 29, 2024

Beyond the Eiffel Tower lies a treasure trove of destinations waiting to be discovered. Craving a taste of French countryside, medieval history or artistic inspiration? A day trip from Paris unlocks a world of possibilities and you can return to the City of Lights with renewed energy and unforgettable memories.

5 Day Trips From Paris

If you have some extra time, there are many charming towns and villages waiting to be explored. We’ve compiled five enticing escapes, all perfect for a single-day adventure from Paris. Here are a few of our favorites:

Home to the iconic Palace of Versailles, Versailles is a must-see for any history buff. The palace was the seat of French royal power for over a century, and its opulent gardens and staterooms are a testament to the grandeur of the French monarchy.

Things to do: Visit the Palace of Versailles, explore the Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the meticulously manicured gardens, rent a rowboat on the Grand Canal, visit the Marie-Antoinette’s Estate, and attend the famous Musical Fountain Shows (seasonal).

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Versailles is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the gardens are in full bloom, avoiding the peak summer crowds.

Where to stay : Experience luxury at its finest by staying at the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, offering elegant rooms and impeccable service just steps away from the Palace of Versailles.

This small village in Normandy is best known as the home of Claude Monet, the founder of Impressionism. Monet’s home and gardens, which he immortalized in many of his paintings, are now a popular tourist destination.

Things to do: Explore Claude Monet’s House and Gardens, wander through the flower garden and water garden, visit the Museum of Impressionisms, and take a leisurely walk around the picturesque village.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Giverny is from April to October, especially during late spring to early summer when the flowers are in full bloom, and the gardens are at their most colorful.

Where to stay : Enjoy a peaceful countryside retreat at the Le Jardin des Plumes , a charming boutique hotel located close to Monet’s gardens, featuring stylish rooms and a gourmet restaurant with garden views.

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is famous for its dramatic tidal variations, with the surrounding bay experiencing some of the highest tides in Europe. During high tide, the island is completely surrounded by water, creating a magical and isolated atmosphere.

Things to do: Explore the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, walk along the ramparts for panoramic views, visit the historic village, wander through narrow streets lined with shops and restaurants, and take a guided tour to learn about the island’s fascinating history.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Mont Saint-Michel is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) to avoid the large crowds of summer while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Where to stay : Immerse yourself in the magic of Mont Saint-Michel by staying at the La Mère Poulard , an iconic hotel and restaurant within the medieval walls, offering cozy rooms and panoramic views of the bay.

The city of Chartres is famous for its magnificent cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France, and its stained glass windows are some of the most beautiful in the world.

Things To Do: Visit the Maison Picassiette, a unique mosaic-covered house created by local artist Raymond Isidore, using broken glass and pottery. You may also walk the labyrinth located inside Chartres Cathedral, a symbolic journey representing the spiritual pilgrimage to Jerusalem.

Best time to travel: The best time to visit Chartres is during the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild, and the city is less crowded. 

Where to stay : Indulge in the historic ambiance of Chartres by booking a stay at the Best Western Plus Hotel Le Grand Monarque , ideally situated near the cathedral and featuring comfortable rooms and a traditional French brasserie.

This medieval town is located in Seine-et-Marne, about an hour east of Paris. Provins is known for its well-preserved city walls, its underground passages, and its annual Rose Festival, which takes place in September.

Things to do: Explore the medieval ramparts and gates, visit the Underground Galleries of Provins, attend a medieval festival or reenactment, explore the Grange aux Dîmes, and visit the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church.

Best time to travel : The best time to visit Provins is during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is pleasant for exploring outdoor attractions and when various festivals and events take place, celebrating the town’s medieval heritage.

Where to stay : Step back in time at the Maison d’Hôtes Stella Cadente , a unique boutique hotel located within the medieval walls of Provins, offering themed rooms inspired by fairy tales and a whimsical atmosphere that transports guests to another era.

Plan Your Itinerary

Crafting a well-rounded itinerary ensures you make the most of your time away from Paris. Consider the following tips:

Early Start: Begin your day trip early to maximize exploration time and avoid crowds, especially at popular attractions like Versailles or Mont Saint-Michel.

Transportation : Research transportation options, whether by train, bus, or organized tours, and book tickets in advance for a seamless journey.

Highlight Attractions: Prioritize must-see attractions while allowing flexibility for unexpected discoveries and leisurely moments.

Local Cuisine: Sample regional delicacies at quaint cafes or charming bistros, savoring the flavors of each destination.

Pack Essentials: Prepare for a day of adventure by packing essentials tailored to your chosen destination.

Comfortable Attire : Dress appropriately for the weather and activities, whether exploring palace grounds, hiking nature trails, or wandering cobblestone streets.

Map and Guidebook : Arm yourself with maps and guidebooks to navigate unfamiliar terrain and gain insights into local history and culture.

Camera : Capture the beauty and memories of your day trip with a camera or smartphone to immortalize scenic vistas and cherished moments.

Snacks and Water: Stay energized and hydrated throughout the day with snacks and water, especially if venturing to remote areas.

Embrace the Experience

Venturing beyond Paris’s borders unveils a world of wonders waiting to be explored. Whether you seek history, art, nature, or gastronomy, a day trip from Paris promises an enriching experience. Whichever destination you choose, you’re sure to have a memorable day trip from Paris. As you embark on your day trip from Paris, embrace the sense of adventure, engage with the locals and soak in the sights and sounds that comes with exploration. Bon voyage!

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Stunning country villages you can visit on a day trip from Paris…

• Janine Marsh

Paris is a city where you’ll always find something new to fall in love with. But sometimes it’s good to get out of the city and see some of the rest of France. Luckily, there are loads of lovely villages you can get to and from within a day from the city. And what’s more, you can visit them all by public transport…

Giverny Normandy

Claude Monet’s house and garden in Giverny, Normandy certainly leave an impression. Take the train to Vernon (nonstop services save time) which is itself very pretty. And then hop on the shuttle bus outside.

3 hours is enough to wander through the house which looks just like Monet has popped out to do a spot of painting. The gardens are stunning, a palette of colours, a riot of plants and an ogle-some lily pond. Afterwards take a wander through the tiny but pretty town and visit restaurant Hotel Baudy where many of Monet’s friends stayed (don’t miss the atmospheric studio in the garden). There’s a great museum in the one street town, several boutiques, a pretty church where the artist is buried and plenty of places for a pit stop. More on Monet’s house and gardens.

At the edge of the Fontainebleau forest, around 60km from Paris, Barbizon is nicknamed the village of the painters, because of the role it played in the history of French pre-impressionism. Artists like Renoir, Sisley and Monet flocked here, charmed by the picturesque village and surrounding nature.

A listed Village of Character, today its postcard pretty streets are home to art galleries, artisan workshops and the Museum of the Painters of Barbizon: visitparisregion.com/en/musee-des-peintres-de-barbizon

The village is surrounded by woods and perfect for a walk to see what inspired so many artists…

Take the train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau, then a taxi or bus 21 to Barbizon.

Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse, Yvelines

The town of Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse at the gateway of Paris is pretty, romantic and a real taste of the countryside. You’ll find the promenade des petits ponts, a path along a canal lined with stone houses and old wash houses. The history of Chevreuse dates back at least 1,000 years, and there’s a 12th century castle which is free to explore. And the lovely 17th century Chateau de Dampierre is a 22 minute cycle from the town. There’s a cheese farm and several excellent restaurants – an idyllic place. Take the train from Gare du Nord to Saint-Rémy-lès-Chevreuse which takes about 50 minutes. From the station you can rent e-bikes and push bikes – great to explore the Rambouillet Forest.

Details: chevreuse-tourisme.com

The UNESCO listed world heritage site of Provins is a medieval gem complete with a grand castle and winding cobbles streets. It’s also famous for its year-round festivals and events but this is no Disney town, it feels like you’ve stepped back in time to the middle ages! The train from Gare de l’Est goes direct to Provins in 1 hour 24 minutes. Details: provins.net

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The 14 Best Day Trips From Paris

From Champagne to the Château de Versailles, these are the best day trips under two hours away from Paris.

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While Paris has plenty to sustain a person — from world-class museums and designer ateliers to shops that pair artisanal ice cream with natural wine — there comes a time when one must journey beyond the Périphérique (the ring road surrounding the city), and not just to shop around the famous Marché aux Puces Saint-Ouen. One of the city’s best offerings is the accessibility of its surroundings, from the lavish glamour of nearby Versailles to the quaint charm of Barbizon’s artist village in the Fontainebleau Forest. 

While most of the destinations on this list are reachable by public transit (with trips made shockingly short thanks to the TGV, France’s high-speed railway), others are only a car ride away. If Paris is a moveable feast, consider these day trips an amuse bouche. 

Whether you’re looking to stroll through the countryside, sip Champagne, or soak up some sun on the beach, these are the best day trips under two hours from Paris. 

Rudy Sulgan/Getty Images

Let’s start with the most popular pairing: Versailles . Even for shorter sejours in Paris, a half-day visit to Versailles is a must for history buffs, aesthetes, and monarchists alike. It’s just over an hour away by car or on the RER (Paris’ commuter rail), making it one of the most convenient day trips. The opulent 17th-century château and marvelously manicured gardens cover nearly 2,000 acres, a portion of which you will stroll through with your jaw on the floor and your camera in hand. Famously the former home of Marie Antoinette, the crowning jewel of this visit is the Hall of Mirrors. If you’re feeling a bit peckish after touring the château, pop over to Michelin-starred La Table du 11 (and by pop over, we mean book a reservation several weeks in advance). Located in the charming Cour des Senteurs, it’s one of the chicest addresses in town, with a focus on sustainability and organic, locally-sourced produce.

Leopoldine Bauer/Travel + Leisure

50 miles west of Paris, another beloved jaunt from the city center is Giverny, the former residence of renowned impressionist painter Claude Monet. Even if you’ve never heard of the two-and-a-half square mile village, you’re likely familiar with Monet’s “Water Lilies,” a series of 250 oil paintings inspired by the gardens around his home. Wander through the lush landscape of Fondation Monet and you’ll be unsurprised to find that it feels like walking through a work of art. A tour of the house offers glimpses of the artist’s tiled kitchen and sunny yellow dining room, as well as his art studio. Prime time to visit is April through October, with peak season falling from May to July when the space is spectacularly verdant and flowers are continuously in bloom. If you’re looking to extend your visit, the nearby Le Jardin des Plumes is the premiere dining destination in the area, serving up creative French fare in a rustic countryside estate. 

Fontainebleau

Just under an hour from the City of Light, Fontainebleau offers fairy-tale forests, drool-worthy gastronomic experiences, and the château of the same name that was dubbed “the true home of kings” by Napoleon. A museum dedicated to the Emperor is on display in the château, featuring mementos from his daily life, weapons he used in battle, and more. Reachable by train in just under an hour, Fontainebleau’s palace — a dedicated UNESCO World Heritage site — is the primary draw, featuring one of France's largest collections of decorative arts. For those looking for a breath of fresh air, there’s plenty else to keep you busy, from bouldering in the woods to produce shopping at the Marché de Fontainebleau (a thrice-weekly occurrence) or a fine-dining delight at L’Axel , a Michelin-starred restaurant helmed by Japanese chef Kunihisa Goto.

Fringing the Forest of Fontainebleau is the quaint artist’s village of Barbizon. The birthplace of the Barbizon School (a movement towards realism and naturalism in art), it’s evident why the area drew 19th-century painters like Théodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet, who immortalized the beauty of the surrounding landscape. Follow the cobblestoned main road to peek into modern galleries, Rousseau’s former abode, and Millet’s studio before stopping at The Auberge Ganne , a historic inn that welcomed many of the artists at the time and has since been preserved as the Museum of Barbizon Painters. A visit to Barbizon can easily be tacked on to a day in Fontainebleau, as the village itself is rather small.

Pakin Songmor/Getty Images

While there are enough bars à vin (wine bars) in the French capital to sustain even the thirstiest traveler, a pilgrimage to Reims, the unofficial capital of Champagne, is a must for true oenophiles. Around 45 minutes away on the TGV, Reims is home to a number of Champagne houses, including Pommery and, famously, Veuve Cliquot — which offers tastings, tours of its cellars, and Madame Cliquot-themed tours around town. If visiting the Pommery estate, stop nearby at the Domaine Les Crayeres for a drink at the Relais & Châteaux property’s La Rotonde bar, which looks out over the magnificent grounds. Beyond all the day drinking, leave time to visit the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, a near-ruin that’s well worth a peek inside.

When it comes to the crème de la crème of day trips, a visit to Chantilly — the home of whipped cream’s classier ancestor, Chantilly cream — is up there. Less than 30 minutes from Paris by train, the main draw of this region is the extravagant Château de Chantilly , famed for its manicured French gardens that are the signature of Andre Le Nôtre, whose masterwork was the gardens of Versailles. Art lovers will enjoy a visit to the château’s Musée Condé, which unexpectedly houses the largest gallery of antique paintings after the Louvre.

Pierre Longnus/Getty Images

Designated the “European Capital of Culture” in 2004, this bustling university town boasts everything you could expect from any cultural capital worth its salt, from a bustling gastronomic scene to troves of artwork and architectural marvels. Bordering France and Belgium, the Flemish-influenced old town, Vieux Lille, is très charmant (very charming) and centers around La Grande Place, a 17th-century square. A visit to the city is incomplete without a stop at the Opéra de Lille (remodeled in the early 1900s after the 18th-century original went up in flames), the Palais des Beaux Arts (one of the largest museums in France), and Méert , a patisserie famed for its gaufres (waffles).

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Only two hours from Paris by high-speed train, Lyon is another university town that beckons when you’re eager for city vibes at a slower, more laid-back pace than Paris. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, it’s home to Restaurant Paul Bocuse, a paragon of French dining. Cobbled streets, narrow alleyways, and the smell of freshly baked bread are just some of the main draws to this pretty city, which is home to several UNESCO World Heritage sites. The ornate limestone Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers the best view of Lyon from its terrace, while the Gallo-Roman Museum (built into Fourvière hill) is home to ancient Roman artifacts that offer a glimpse at the city’s history. All throughout the old town are traboules , covered passageways that date back to the 4th century.

Loire Valley

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If châteaux-hopping is your idea of a good time, look no further than a day trip to the Loire Valley. All along Europe’s longest river, the Loire, you’ll find over 20 Renaissance-era castles that are open to the public, each offering a healthy dose of art, architecture, and French pomp and circumstance to visitors. If you’re day-tripping, narrow it down to a visit of Chambord and Chenonceau, two of the region’s most extravagant châteaux. If you’re able to swing a weekend trip, spend a few hours wandering around Orléans, a city famous for its connection to Joan of Arc. You may want to consider renting a bike, as cyclists flock to this region for the renowned Loire à Vélo cycle route, which spans nearly 600 miles. And after all those castles and cycling, be sure to leave time to indulge at some of the local wineries , which are about as omnipresent as the castles.

Christopher Larson/Travel + Leisure

The medieval capital of Normandy is only an hour and a half from Paris by train. Walkable and full of enough art and architecture to merit an easy few days of exploration, Rouen is difficult to squeeze into just a day trip. To make the most of your time, arrive early. After a visit to the city’s Gothic Cathédrale Notre Dame, walk yourself over to St. Joan of Arc’s church, a marvel of stained glass that honors the young heroine who was burned at the stake in the city center. The Musée des Beaux Arts, commissioned by Napoleon, is another cultural must-see. While Rouen is full of history, it’s also doing its best to keep up with the times. Stop by Public for natural wine, oysters, and top-rated people watching in a square full of Disney-esque timbered buildings.

Auvers-sur-Oise

Vincent van Gogh was enamored with Auvers-sur-Oise, and it’s easy to see why. The painter, who died in the picturesque town just 18 miles outside of Paris, is now a part of the draw to this beautiful French village, where you can visit his grave as well as several landmarks and landscapes that feature heavily in his later works, including the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church. After a few hours of exploring, stop by the Absinthe Museum for an apéro before catching the train back to Paris.

lucentius/Getty Images

Dubbed the Parisian Riviera thanks to the influx of well-heeled city folk who flock there in the summer months, Deauville is the perfect place to escape a canicule (heat wave). If you’re renting a car, it’s just a two-hour drive away from Paris (by train, it’s about 30 minutes further). Beyond a spectacular stretch of sand dotted with colorful umbrellas and a 1920s boardwalk featuring retro bathing cabins, there are plenty of cultural activities to keep you busy in this seaside town, from film festivals to high-end boutiques.

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History buffs will find a visit to Caen worthwhile just to meander around the Mémorial de Caen, a spectacular museum dedicated to World War II, the 1944 Battle of Normandy, and the Cold War. The exhibits muse on the fragile nature of peace and are a meaningful stop en route to the D-Day Beaches and Pointe du Hoc, the stark vertical cliff where you can walk around bunkers high above the English Channel.

Alexander Spatari/Getty Images

Two hours south of Paris by train lies Bordeaux, where many young Parisians flocked during the COVID-19 pandemic in search of cheaper rent and more space. As a result, the city is in the midst of a cultural renaissance, with a fresh crop of restaurants, bars, and coffee shops coming up faster than new vines. The region, of course, is famous for its namesake grape, which you can learn all about at the interactive La Cité du Vin museum — an architectural delight in its own right. Another welcome addition to the city’s scene is Bassins des Lumières , a massive digital art space housed in the city’s former submarine base.

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The 14 best day trips from Paris

Your trip to Paris shouldn't end there - hop on the train and check out the best day trips out of the capital

Paris is the best, obviously. There’s no doubt about that. But the summer can get painfully hot, and painfully touristy, and you might find yourself spending more time queuing outside Instagram-famous cafés than actually eating in them. Either that, or you might have just fallen in love with Paris , and be in desperate need of seeing more. 

Whatever your reason, we’ve got good news. Whenever you plan to escape the city, there’s a whole host of incredible places to discover near Paris, that you can get to via train, car or boat. Think sprawling champagne regions filled with vineyards, serene gardens and old architecture, and a ton of galleries for when you’ve had it up to here with all the fantastic galleries in the French capital. Here are the best day trips from Paris, right now. 

RECOMMENDED: 🇫🇷  The greatest places to visit in France 🏘️  Where to stay in Paris 📍  The best things to do in Paris 🎨 Unmissable attractions in Paris 🏛️ The best museums in Paris 🏨 The best hotels in Paris

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Best day trips from Paris

1.  Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a goldmine of fantastic architecture (especially castles), culture and history. It’s a Unesco World Heritage Site, full of lush gardens, French renaissance-esque towers and magical lakes. The Château de Chenonceau (otherwise known as the Ladies’ Castle, but everyone’s invited), sits right on the river and is truly something to behold, but make sure to check out Château de Cheverny and the rest of the Château de Chambord area while you’re there. Oh, and drink plenty of wine. It’s very good there. 

How far? 130 miles

Get there… A 1.5 hour train from Austerlitz to Blois and a 12 minute taxi to Château de Beauregard, Loire Valley. 

2.  Giverny

Here in the sleepy Pays d’Eure life moves at a more tranquil pace, much as it did when Monet lived and painted here from 1883 until his death in 1926. It was at his family home that he produced some of his most famous works, including his celebrated water lily series, ‘Les Nymphéas’. Today his magical gardens and the nearby Musée des Impressionnismes make for one of the most enjoyable day trips from Paris, drawing around half a million visitors each year. They're beautiful too, looking like a real-life Monet work, of course. Beautiful endless dots of colour everywhere. The interior is interesting and maintained well too. Of course, there's a lot more to do in Giverny than visit the Monet home. It's a picturesque place, with great history and a quaint, quiet scene full of nice walks and fab food. 

How far? 47 miles

Get there… A two-hour bus from Porte Maillot to Grand Val. 

3.  Champagne region

Considering France is practically synonymous with champagne, it’d be remiss to avoid the region that gave its name to the good stuff. Soak up the region’s rich history with visits to a vineyard, the Moët & Chandon cellars, and the royal city of Reims, the unofficial capital of Champagne where several French kings were crowned back in the day. There's great regal cathedrals and other architecture, great food (especially the ham), and of course, plenty to drink. Tchin Tchin, as they'd say. 

How far? 89 miles

Get there… A 45-minute train from Paris-Est to Reims. 

4.  Boulogne-Billancourt

Paris’s closest suburbs often play second fiddle to the city’s   intra-muros   attractions, but you’d be a fool to miss out on Boulogne-Billancourt. Start with the Bois de Boulogne, Paris’s western lung, filled with lakes and parkland, perfect for a morning stroll. Then drop by the three excellent museums:   Musée Paul-Belmondo   if you’re into sculpture, the   Musée des Années 30   for everything Art Deco and the   Musée Albert-Kahn  for wonderful sculpted gardens and collections of 19th-century photography. Everything comes in threes, right? To get there, take line 10 to Boulogne – Porte de Saint-Cloud. There's some top food here too, whether you want a bistro or something grand (like fancy, not big). Also, given it's one of the richest communes in French, you can have a great time people (and house) watching here. 

How far?   10 miles

Get there…   A 30-minute train from Austerlitz. 

5.  Auvers-sur-Oise

‘Seriously beautiful’ is how Vincent van Gogh described Auvers-sur-Oise in a letter to his brother Theo. He knew a thing or two about how things look, did Van. This peaceful, charming hamlet is only 30 kilometres from Paris and has drawn all manner of influential painters over the years, mainly impressionists.  Gogh's final resting place, and his brothers's is here in fact. After visiting, why not toast to them at the musée de l’Absinthe.  Others who took inspiration from this picturesque spot include Charles-François Daubigny, Paul Cézanne and Camille Pissarro. A place for the taste-makers, indeed. 

How far? 32 miles. 

Get there... A 38-minute train from Gare du Nord to Méry-sur-oise. 

6.  Château de Versailles

Versailles must be one of the most impressive royal residences in Europe. A right royal palace, serious levels of palace. Transformed from a hunting lodge to palace by Louis XIV in 1682, with the help of more than 36,000 craftsmen and labourers, its scale and grandeur are matchless. Whether you want to tick off the estate’s headline attractions or discover little-visited corners in the grounds and beyond, this is an essential day out. Prepare to lose yourself in the gilded stucco wonder that is the hall of mirrors. And prance around the orange trees in the garden as if you’re Marie Antoinette yourself. It can easily take up an enrtire day, having, you know 2,300 rooms across 8.15km squared. If you find your way out and fancy some opulent dining for yourself, great places to manger nearby include Alain Ducasse's Ore, and La Mangette which has a new menu daily and doesn't take reservations. 

How far? 18 miles. 

Get there… a 46-minute train from Musée d'Orsay to Château de Versailles.

7.  Vitry-sur-Seine

Vitry-sur-Seine was once not quite a no-go zone, but almost – it’s the largest town in the Val-de-Marne region (with some 85,000 inhabitants), famed for its social unrest and riots. But don’t be scared away: this unseemly slice of suburbia has cleaned up its act, and now makes for a fun, artsy day out away from the pristine (and sometimes stuffy) offerings in central Paris. You’ll find streets decorated with graffiti by street art collective C215, plus monumental outdoor artworks including Jean Dubuffet’s giant ‘Chaufferie avec Cheminée’, an ode to Vitry’s industrial past. Our top tip? Get a snapshot of French art from 1950 to the present at the trendy   MAC VAL museum . Hidden gems are everywhere. This extends to the modestly priced bistros, which offer some serious grub to nourish you after a day's exploring. Not to mention good wine. You'll spot a bunch of trendy types around the university too. 

How far?   6 miles. 

Get there…   A seven-minute train from Bibliothèque François Mitterrand to Les Ardoines. 

8.  Chartres

If you like your architecture gothic – and monumental – there are few better places than Chartres. Its 12th-century Notre-Dame cathedral (not that one), which sits to the south-west of the capital, has been granted World Heritage Site status by Unesco on account of its remarkable preservation (many of its stained-glass windows are original). The area is best-known for the architecture of goths, but you should also wander this medieval city’s cobbled streets and you’ll find some decent bars and restaurants, too. For half the year, you can also catch a stunning lighting display across the city centre (at night, of course). 

How far? 56 miles. 

Get there… A train from Paris Montparnasse 1 Et 2 to Chartres for one hour and 15 minutes. 

9.  Normandy

If you’ve got a long day (or weekend) to spare, we suggest heading west to Normandy. This historic coastal region is probably best known for its involvement in the Second World War, with much of the war’s legacy still visible. While you’re there, explore the Caen Memorial Museum, the D-Day landing beaches and the breathtaking American cemetery, with its poignant rows of white crosses. Beyond the history, Normandy is also home to some great seaside views and food. Particularly, seafood, cider, cheese, and some seriously good poulet. 

How far? 125 miles. 

Get there… A train from Magenta to Hôtel de Ville for two hours and 30 minutes. 

10.  Fontainebleau

Royal France isn’t all about Versailles, you know. Before that was built, the medieval Palace of Fontainebleau was home to Napoleon III (nephew of the famous one) and Louis VII, and was known as the ‘Second Rome’ thanks to its suite of rooms decorated specially by Napoleon I for Pope Pius VII. Visitors should also take a look around Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, which was extravagantly landscaped by the same architect who worked on the Palace of Versailles. While in (second) Rome, head to the forest of Fontainebleau, with its large boulders and stunning views. There's also three thousand or so species of mushroom here. 

How far? 43 miles. 

Get there… A 40-minute train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau - Avon.

11.  St-Denis

The northern  département  (Parisian suburb, basically) of Seine St-Denis, aka ‘Le 93’, used to be the one that best fulfilled the negative image of the  banlieue , with colossal housing estates like La Courneuve, Aulnay-sous-Bois and Sarcelles some of the most deprived (and crime-ridden) in France. There are still pockets that are best avoided, and the estates are still poor, but serious urban renewal projects have immensely improved things. Our advice? Go on a tour of the Basilica of Saint-Denis, home to the largest collection of funerary sculpture from the 12th to the 16th centuries. So yeah, there's a hell of a lot of history to take in around the place. But there's also lovely spots to eat in and spend timing walking around. You're not far from the heart of Paris in any case. 

How far? 13 miles. 

Get there… A five-minute train from Gare du Nord to Saint-Denis. 

12.  Domaine de Chantilly

The Domaine de Chantilly is one of the most enjoyable day trips north of Paris. The estate was the home of Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, who amassed one of France’s greatest collections of precious books, paintings and decorative objects. Today, as well as admiring the château’s galleries, you can visit the impressive suites, stroll the gardens and stop by the stables, now an equestrian museum. Round off your trip with a Chantilly cream-based dessert (can't go wrong with cream and vanilla can you). Fun fact, Ronaldo (Brazil) got married at the Château, which cost about 700,000 euros. 

How far? 30 miles. 

Get there… A 23-minute train from Paris Nord to Chantilly - Gouvieux followed by a 30-minute walk to Rue du Connétable. 

13.  Montreuil and Vincennes

If you’re a Paris old-timer, or just looking for a fresh angle on sightseeing, consider the City of Light’s closest eastern suburbs, Montreuil and Vincennes. The former is famed for labyrinthine flea market, Les Puces de Montreuil.  Though less pretty than Vincennes, Montreuil's population has a distinct arty streak, visible in the town's numerous galleries, artist's workshops and graffiti clad walls.  Vincennes, meanwhile, is home to the postcard-perfect Château de Vincennes, which contains Europe’s tallest medieval dungeon, and the sprawling bois , replete with follies and lakes.

How far? 6 miles. 

Get there… An 18-minute train from Châtelet les Halles to Rue de Montreuil & Rue de Vincennes. 

14.  Parc de Sceaux

South of Paris lies the Parc de Sceaux, a beautiful yet little-known estate home to sprawling formal gardens and a small château. It’s one of the most delightful weekend escapes from the city, particularly in spring when you can picnic beneath the cherry blossom. We highly recommend picking up a gourmet picnic of salads, terrines and Nutella éclairs, and reclining in the shade of the cherry trees at Bosquet Nord. Also, home from home, you can get some top tea here. There's a massive range of Mariage Frères teas and a chocolat Viennois that will give you more than enough of a sugar hit for the journey back to Paris. Tres bien. 

How far?   17 miles. 

Get there…   A 25-minute train from Gare du Nord to Parc de Sceaux. 

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Best Day Trips from Paris

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• Day Trips from Paris

13 Epic Day Trips from Paris

Just beyond Paris lies a whole other world for you to visit and explore:   thrillingly beautiful chateaus, castles, and cathedrals, the Normandy beaches where heroic D-Day invasions unfolded, fabulous vineyards where you can savor the best Champagne in the world, a medieval abbey almost surrounded by water, and for kids of all ages, Disneyland Paris.

Planning a Day Trip from Paris?

The most popular day trips from Paris fill up quickly, especially from April through October.  Book early to get the dates you want:

The most popular day trips from Paris:

• Versailles Skip-the-Line Guided Tour & Gardens  - Optional garden tour
• Giverny: Monet's Garden Half-Day Tour  - Our favorite Giverny tour
• Day Trip from Paris to Champagne with 8 Tastings & Lunch - Loads of fun!
• Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket  - Choose 1 or 2 parks; enter fast
• Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Full-Day Tour from Paris - Small group tour

Thanks to convenient tours including transportation from Paris, you can easily make day trips from Paris to Versailles, Giverny, Mont Saint-Michel, and all of these other magical places . 

You can even leave Paris in the morning and spend the day enjoying famous sights in London, sampling delicious wines and lunching at a château surrounded by vineyards near the city of Bordeaux in Southwestern France , or cruising down the picturesque canals of Bruges, Belgium - and still return to Paris in time for a late dinner.

Check out our suggestions for 13 best day trips from Paris and the best ways to explore them during a one day adventure.

Here's what you'll find in this article:

1.  Claude Monet's Garden & Pond at Giverny    2.  Versailles Palace & Gardens   3.  Normandy D-Day Beaches 4.  Disneyland Paris   5.  Mont Saint-Michel   6.  Loire Valley for Champagne Tasting   7.  Castles in the Loire Valley   8.  Chartres Cathedral   9.  Chateau de Vaux Le Vicomte   10.  Chateau de Fontainebleau     11.  Weekend Getaway to London   12.  Bruges, Belgium   13.  Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

Top photo: The King's Gate at Versailles, less than an hour outside of Paris, (c) Paris Discovery Guide

Paris Discovery Guide is a reader-supported publication.  When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission at no additional cost for you.  Learn more

1.  Day Trip to Giverny: Monet's Home, Garden, & Water Lily Ponds

Impressionist artist Claude Monet spent the last half of his life in Giverny, a tiny village in Normandy about 45 miles (about 1 hour and 15-30 minutes) outside of Paris.  Using his favorite Japanese wood block prints as inspiration, he created lush flower gardens and a pond filled with floating water lilies, where reflections of light inspired his famous Water Lilies paintings.

Visiting Giverny  is a quick and easy day trip from Paris, and if you're a Monet fan, it's an experience you should put at the top of your bucket list.  Thanks to a meticulous restoration after Monet's death, you will see his house, gardens, and water lily pond much as they were when he lived here and painted some of his finest masterpieces.

You'll stroll among the masses of flowers in the breathtaking gardens, explore the charming pink stucco house filled with mostly-original furnishings where Monet lived with his second wife and their six children, and perhaps best of all, immerse yourself in the tranquil Japanese-style water garden where the lilies fill the air with fragrance during July and August while other plants bloom from late March through early November.

Here are two of the best guided day trips with transportation from Paris:

• Giverny: Monet's Garden Half-Day Tour - For this small-group tour, you'll travel to Giverny in an air-conditioned minivan with a guide who will speed you through a fast-entry tours-only gate for tours.  You'll explore Monet's beautiful house, gardens, and lily pond, and will also visit the peaceful graveyard where he is buried.  Book your ticket
• Giverny & Versailles Palace Guided Day Trip - This combo full-day tour gives you the perfect way to combine a visit to Giverny with a trip to the Palace of Versailles, where you'll visit the Hall of Mirrors, Royal Apartments, and the spectacular gardens.  Book your ticket

Find more of our recommended day trips to Giverny

Compare the best ways to get to Giverny from Paris

2.  Versailles Palace & Gardens

The Palace of Versailles' over-the-top opulence and famous former occupants including Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette attracts around 10 million visitors a year, and for good reason. 

With its dazzling c rystal chandeliers, priceless art and antiques, and masses of gleaming gold, mirrors, tapestries, and gilded ornaments everywhere you look, Versailles Palace packs a visual punch - and that's before you explore the vast 2,000 acre grounds  filled with flower gardens, trees, statues, fountains, a mile-long Grand Canal, a couple of smaller palaces called the Grand and Petit Trianon, a lake, and Marie Antoinette's rustic Queen's Hamlet, a small village of thatched roof cottages. 

There's no other place in the world that's quite as magnificent or fascinating - or that symbolizes extravagance, royal power, and decadence in quite the same way.  You can easily spend an entire day here, and still wish you had longer.

Even better:   Spend a night or two at one of the luxury resorts or cute apartments close to the Palace (or a budget-friendly 2- or 3-star hotel), and explore the Palace, gardens, and other attractions at the estate at your leisure.  Did you know there's a new hotel inside the Palace?

• Top things to see & do Inside the Palace of Versailles and Its Gardens
• Best guided walking and bike tours of Versailles from Paris
• How to get to Versailles from Paris: 6 options
• Where to stay near Versailles Palace

Located 14 miles (23 km) and about 30-45 minutes travel time from the center of Paris, Versailles is quick and easy to reach by the RER C train plus a 10 minute walk to the palace - but there's a catch.   Remember those 10 million visitors per year?  During high season - April 1st through October 31st - you'll swear they're all there on the same day as you.

Forget all the tips you may have heard about how to beat the crowds during the high season.  No matter how early you arrive in the morning and no matter which day of the week you visit, you'll almost always face a 2-hour or longer wait in line even when you have a so-called "skip-the-line" ticket. 

Why?  While those tickets let you avoid the ticket line, you still have to go through the very, very long security line.   At other Paris attractions, skip-the-line tickets shorten your wait to almost nothing - but not here, due to the massive crowds.

Fortunately, there's an easy solution right at your fingertips:  book a guided tour.   Groups accompanied by a tour guide get to use a special "guided tours only" entrance where the security line moves much faster. 

A wide variety of guided Versailles tours are available, so you can choose the combination of transportation (or not) from Paris, tour length, and other experiences you prefer.  All include your admission ticket to the Palace and Garden and, of course, entrance to Versailles through the group tour gate.  Here are 3 popular choices:

• Versailles Skip-the-Line Half-Day Tour & Hotel Transfer  - Experience the lavish palace and gardens enjoyed by French kings and queens, including Marie Antoinette as an expert guide shows you the famous Hall of Mirrors, State Apartments, King's Bedroom, and more.  Find out more
• Versailles Bike Tour with Palace & Queen Farm Entrance - For a different type of experience, this 8-hour bike tour  includes train tickets to/from Paris, a visit to the local farmer's market for picnic provisions, bike rental and helmet, and a guided bike tour of the palace grounds, including the Petit and Grand Trianon plus Marie-Antoinette's Hamlet.  Your guide will take you through the guided tour entrance to the palace, where you'll get an audio guide so that you can the Hall of Mirrors and other rooms on your own.   Find out more
• Versailles by Train Escorted Tour from Paris with Skip the Line Tickets - A guide meets you at a designated spot in Paris, escorts you on the RER train to Versailles, and takes you through the guided tour direct entrance to avoid the lines.   After lunch (on your own, or add on a gourmet 3-course lunch with wine when you book), you'll visit the Petit Trianon, Marie Antoinette's personal domain and her quaint country "village."  After your tour, you'll take the direct train back to Paris.

More Highly-Rated Versailles Tour Choices

3.  normandy d-day beaches.

No matter how many times you may have seen photographs, videos, or movies of the Normandy beaches where American, Canadian, British, and other nations' troops landed during D-Day for a courageous and successful military operation leading to the end of World War II in Europe, there is nothing quite as moving or as fascinating as seeing this part of Northern France in person.

The easiest and most convenient way to see the D-Day beaches from Paris is to join a 1-day tour.  Not only does a comfortable coach provide your transportation to and from Normandy, but it also makes getting from one site to another easy, and you don't have to deal with parking. 

The tours last 12-14 hours and typically include visits to a couple of the landing beaches where you can also see the remains of Nazi bunkers, Pointe du Hoc where US Rangers scaled the 100-foot high cliffs as they dodged German fire, the American Cemetery overlooking Omaha Beach, and a museum dedicated to World War II history and the D-Day landings. 

These two popular 1-day tours are similar, but their itineraries and lunch options may differ.  Both are excellent - so check them both out and choose the one you like best:

• Normandy D-Day Beaches: Day Trip from Paris

Can You Get to the Normandy D-Day Beaches by Train from Paris?

No, but you can get close.  Although you can take a train to Normandy from Gare Saint-Lazare train station in Paris, none of the trains go directly to the landing beaches. 

Your best option is to take the train to Caen or Bayeux, and then rent a car to travel along the 50-mile swath of the Normandy coast where the five D-Day landing beaches, museums, cemeteries, bunkers, and other important sights are located. 

To do this trip on your own as quickly as possible, plan on two days.  For a more leisurely pace and/or in-depth exploration, plan on three days - or even more if you decide to visit Mont Saint-Michel while you're on the Normandy coast.

4.  One Day (or More) in Disneyland Paris

With the Magic Kingdom, a fantasy castle, and of course Mickey and all the other lovable Disney characters, parades, and evening fireworks, a day at Disneyland Paris offers loads of fun for kids of all ages. 

The park offers you two exciting experiences:  Disneyland Park with Big Thunder Mountain, Space Mountain Mission 2, and lots of other kid-friendly rides and adventures, and Walt Disney Studios Park with stunt demonstrations and other behind-the-scenes shows.  Whether you choose one or both, you'll enjoy a day packed with entertainment and adventure. 

Best ways to get to Disneyland Paris from Paris

Disneyland Paris tends to be somewhat more relaxed and low-key than the parks in the US and other countries (and tickets are usually slightly less expensive ). 

Even so, you should expect big crowds on weekends, during summer months, during French and European school vacations in the spring and fall (basically, late March-May and October-November), and of course at holidays when Disney puts on spectacular celebrations.  

To save time at the entrance by skipping the ticket line , buy your Disneyland Paris 1-Day Ticket  before you come.

If one day isn't long enough, get a Disneyland Paris Multi-Day Entrance Ticket and stay over at one of the Disney resorts or other hotels nearby. 

Find the best places to stay at Disneyland Paris and make your reservations

5.  Day Trip to Mont Saint Michel

Rising from a tiny island just off the Atlantic Coast between Normandy and Brittany, Mont Saint Michel Abbey is an unforgettable sight.  Inspired by a bishop's vision of the Archangel Michael, worship began here in 708 and the abbey's construction started in 966.  The magnificent abbey has been the destination of pilgrimages since medieval times. 

Comfortable transportation  from Paris makes it possible to visit Mont Saint Michel in just one day, while seeing the beautiful French countryside along the way. 

Here are two of the most popular day trip choices:

• Small Group Mont Saint Michel Tour & Cider Tasting - Explore the famous abby and fortified island town mostly at your own pace, and make a special stop to enjoy some famous Normandy Cider Pommeau and Calvados
• Full-Day Mont Saint-Michel Guided Tour - Choose this tour if you prefer a fully-guided experience, including lunch, during your time at Mont Saint Michel

6.  Champagne Tasting in the Loire Valley

A day trip to France's beautiful Champagne region, located less than 100 miles east of Paris, gives you a memorable opportunity to sample the country's most famous beverage at champagne houses such as Mumm, Taittinger, Nicolas Feuillatte, Veuve Clicquot, and Moët & Chandon, and visit the renowned vineyards where the Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes used to make champagne grow.

Although you can travel by train from Paris's Gare de l'Est to Reims or Epernay, the major city and town along the Champagne route, you'll need a car (and a designated driver) or other transportation to get to the vineyards as well as to producers in smaller villages.  A much easier and more efficient option is to go on a day trip to Campagne country from Paris. 

Here are several of our favorites:

• Day Trip from Paris to Champagne with 8 Tastings & Lunch - With visits to 2 or more champagne houses (including a world-famous choice and 1-2 small traditional champagne houses), champagne and food pairings during lunch (included with your tour), and a masterclass in a vineyard, this small-group tour gives you the opportunity to taste 8 different champagnes during the day.  You can also privatize this tour for your group of 1-8 people.
• Small Group Tour from Paris to Champagne with 3-Course Lunch - You'll be picked up from your Paris hotel for a full-day excursion to 3 Champagne houses including Moët & Chandon, where you'll have a guided tour and sip some fine vintage Champagne.  You'll also visit a small local winery for more tastings, savor a 3-course lunch at a local restaurant, stop by a local producer who works with 80+ farmers to create special sparkling wines, and sample sample 4 more glasses of Champagne before your return back to Paris, where you'll be dropped off at your hotel.  Limited to 7 participants.
• Champagne Region Bike Tour & Tastings - After traveling by train from Paris to Reims (as quick as 39 minutes on the high-speed TGV train from Gare de l'Est), your guide will meet you and provide you with an electric bike  to use during the tour through the Champagne region countryside past historic vineyards and picturesque villages.   You'll visit Champagne houses and their cellars, learn how the beverage is made, and enjoy tastings as well as a traditional lunch.

7.  A Day (or Weekend) Trip to London

Hop on the high-speed Eurostar train to London at Paris's Gare du Nord train station and in just over two hours, you'll be in a different country - ready to begin your day of adventure exploring one of the world's great cities. 

A fun and easy way to see London is on top of a double-decker Hop-On Hop-Off bus.   The narrated tour route includes all of London's iconic sights:  Tower of London, Big Ben, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace.  Your ticket also includes a Thames River cruise and a free walking tour.  Hop off to explore on foot, shop, or enjoy some tasty pub grub whenever you please, and then hop back on. 

Save time by getting your tickets in advance for specialty tours or experiences such as a Harry Potter guided walking tour or thrilling ride on the London Eye . 

Read our review of the Magical London: Harry Potter Guided Walking tour

If you want to visit lots of places in one day, consider a 1-day London Pass, which lets you choose from 80+ attractions.

You can book your Eurostar tickets online before you go.  Prices vary based on how close to your travel dates you book your seats (book up to 3 months ahead for the cheapest seats) and whether you choose Standard, First Class, or Business seats.  In case you're wondering: Standard seats are quite comfortable, but First Class and Business seats give you more amenities if you're planning to work on your laptop during the 2+ hour trip.  Booking information:   Eurostar website

8.  Fabulous Loire Valley Castles

Over 300 castles built between the 10th and 15th centuries dot the beautiful Loire River Valley south of Paris and stretching west all the way to the Bay of Biscay.  

Some of the grandest and most beautiful of these historic châteaux from the Renaissance period have been authentically restored inside and out, and are open to the public to tours. 

If you have only one day to spend seeing chateaus in the Loire Valley, choose a day tour from Paris to make the most of your time. 

You'll see the beautiful scenery and small villages of the Loire Valley, explore 2-3 of the most famous castles, and learn a lot about the region's history and nobility who lived here.  Depending on which tour you choose, you may also get to combine this with good food and wine.

Our favorite is the small group (25 or fewer) Fairytale Loire Castles, Wine Tasting, and Lunch tour - a fantastic day packed with wonderful experiences, including tours of two very different but spectacular castles,  Château de Chambord (fans of Disney's Beauty and the Beast will instantly recognize it!) and the magnificent Château de Chenonceau, built partly over the River Cher and filled with original furnishings and art. 

You also get to see visit a smaller family-owned castle, Château de Nitray, where you'll be served a tasty lunch featuring local products and wine from the castle's own vineyard/winery.  The tour of Chenonceau is in the afternoon, where you'll be offered another wine tasting (alternately, you can spend time exploring the castle's gardens) - a nice end to a perfect day.

9.  Chartres Cathedral - The Most Stunningly Gorgeous Stained Glass in Europe?

Twelfth century Chartres Cathedral, a soaring French Gothic masterpiece with incredible stained glass windows, is renowned for its beauty.  In fact, it's considered one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Europe because of the dazzling jewel-like colors of its stained glass, especially the vivid reds, blues, and purples.

In case you are wondering if Chartres is worth a visit, considering that Paris has its own magnifcent cathedral and many lovely churches, our opinion is a strong "yes."  The brilliance of its stained glass puts it in a class by itself.  Seeing it for the first time can feel like a transformative experience.

The cathedral conveniently lies just over an hour by train outside of Paris in the Loire Valley - an easy and rewarding day trip, and an excuse to explore the charming medieval town of Chartres.

You can catch the train to Chartres at Montparnasse Station in Paris.  Buy your tickets in the station for around 25€ each way.  Trains run about every hour on the weekends, and even more frequently during the week - you can check the schedule on the SNCF website.  

When you arrive in Chartres, you'll easily spot the spires of the Cathedral slightly to the left as you exit the train station - a 3-5 minute walk.  Since it's the only cathedral in town, you really can't miss it.

As you walk around the outside of the cathedral, look up to see flying buttresses and pointed arches, and massive expanses of intricate stone carvings - about 4,000 in all.

The only newish elements are the metal roof, put in place in 1837 after a massive fire - similar to the tragic fire at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris - destroyed the original roof, and an early 16th century Flamboyant-style spire that contrasts with the plainer original spire.

Inside, be sure to notice the Gothic rib-and-panel vault, numerous statues, and of course, the stunningly beautiful mostly-original 12th and 13th century stained glass including its three exquisite and enormous rose windows.  You can also (usually) visit an 11th century crypt.

After you explore the cathedral, walk around the nearby narrow Medieval-period streets with half-timbered buildings.  You'll find boutiques and many appealing bistros and cafes.   

Next to the cathedral in the former bishops' palace is the Chartres Museum of Fine Arts (free admission).  The museum buildings date from the 15th, 17th, and 18th centuries, and contain interesting collections from the Middle Ages to the mid-20th century.

If you prefer a guided tour , take a look at this VIP option which offers the luxury of a private driver and guide from Paris who will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to Chartres for a customized experience based on your personal interests and preferences.  This 5-hour private tour can accommodate from 2 to 7 people.  After the tour, you'll be driven back to Paris and dropped off at your hotel.

Book the private VIP tour now

10.  Château de Vaux Le Vicomte:  See the Inspiration for Versailles

Built in the 1600s by a team including the top architect, top painter, and top landscape artist of the time, the magnificent Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is located in the small village of Maincy just 35 miles outside of Paris.  When King Louis XIV visited, he loved it so much that he hired the same team to transform a rustic hunting lodge into his splendid Château de Versailles. 

When you visit today, you'll see how the privately-owned Vaux le Vicomte rivals Versailles for its beautiful and harmonious design, fabulous gardens and fountains, and lavishly decorated rooms - but without the crowds.

The castle has welcomed the public since 1968 and offers a variety of experiences.  You can tour the chateau and gardens (and you can even rent a golf cart for going farther afield, also like Versailles). 

You can also visit a carriage museum, watch water and fountain shows on a couple of Saturday afternoon each month, and enjoy romantic candlelight evenings (and optional dinners) from May to October. 

At Christmas, Vaux le Vicomte's spectacular holiday decorations make the castle a popular winter attraction from mid-November through early January.  The castle then closes for the remainder of January through late March.

Tours with Transportation Provided to Vaux le Vicomte

Getting to the Chateau by train or bus is actually a bit complicated, but fortunately several tours provide transportation that make getting there easy.  Here are several of our favorite ways to visit Vaux le Vicomte:

• Fontainebleau & Vaux le Vicomte - Day Tour from Paris - If you'd like to also see Fontainebleau, this package gives you luxury coach transportation from Paris to both castles and also includes admission and audio guides to both places.  A great value, and much easier than trying to coordinate train schedules/shuttles/taxis, especially if you want to see both castles in a day. 
• Chateau de Fontainbleau & Vaux-Le-Vicomte Small Group Tour from Paris - If you prefer a more personalized experience when you visit these magnificent and historically significant castles, this small group tour is a wonderful option.  You'll travel on an air conditioned minibus with an expert guide who share information and insights, plus you'll also have time to explore on your own (and even, as we discovered, rent a golf cart to reach the farthest corners of the estate). 
• A Candlelit Evening at Vaux-le-Vicomte Palace with Dinner & Fireworks - On this VIP experience, you'll travel to the chateau from Paris by a mini-van with pick up/drop off at your hotel included.  Then you'll be seated for a tasty 3-course candlelit dinner at Les Charmilles restaurant overlooking the illuminated chateau and gardens.  After dinner, you can explore the château on your own, visit the carriage museum where you'll see everything from a Roman carriage to 20th century saloons, and stroll around the beautiful gardens illuminated by 2,000 candles.  A fireworks show ends this special evening.  Available May - October, with limited availability - so don't wait to book this unforgettable experience.   Make your reservations

Getting there by Train

If you do decide to go on your own, here's how to do it: 

From Gare de l'Est in Paris, take the direct train Line P (in the direction of Provins) to Verneuil l'Etang station (about 35 minutes; direct trains run every hour).  At the station, the "Chateaubus" shuttle meets each train, and will take you to the castle in the town of Maincy and then back to the station at the end of the day.  (Please double-check availability, especially for going back to the station, because it doesn't run all the time.) 

You must buy your timed-entry admission tickets to the Chateau in advance online.   If you want to see the Christmas decorations between late November and early January, get your ticket far in advance as they sell out much sooner than you might expect.

11.  Château de Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau, another magnificent palace with medieval roots as a hunting lodge, overlooks spectacular gardens including the largest formal garden in Europe.  The castle itself has served as a residence for French rulers including 34 kings and two emperors from the 12th through the 19th century. 

Located just 42 miles from Paris, Fontainebleau is a popular day trip destination from Paris.

You can explore numerous meticulously maintained rooms filled with beautiful antiques, art, wall coverings, and artifacts. With elaborately painting ceilings, paneled walls, door-top decorations, frescoes, and hand-carved moldings, Fontainebleau rivals Versailles for beauty and artistry, although it doesn't have nearly as much gold or as many mirrors (or as many crowds).  Must-see rooms include Marie-Antoinette's boudoir, Napoleon's Throne Room, and the Pope's Apartment.

Fontainebleau, itself a UNESCO World Heritage site and museum, also contains four other museums: The Empress's Chinese Museum dedicated to East Asian treasures (some plundered by Napoleon, some given as gifts), the Napoleon 1 Museum, a Paintings Gallery, and a Furniture Gallery exhibiting collections of the castle's furniture from different time periods.  In addition, Fontainebleau includes three exquisite chapels.

To visit on your own, buy an inexpensive priority entrance ticket online, and then take a train from the Gare de Lyon station in Paris to the Fontainebleau Avon station (three different train lines stop there - it's about 40 minutes from Paris).  Walk to the nearby bus station, take the Aérial 1 bus toward Les Lilas, get off at the Château stop, and walk two minutes to the castle. 

For greater convenience, choose one of these special combo tours with transportation from Paris:

• Fontainebleau & Vaux le Vicomte - Day Tour from Paris - This excursion gives you luxury coach transportation from Paris to both castles as well as admission and audio guides to both places.  A great value, and much easier than trying to coordinate train schedules/shuttles/taxis, especially if you want to see both castles in a day.  Book Now
• Chateau de Fontainbleau & Vaux-Le-Vicomte Small Group Tour from Paris - Prefer a more personalized experience when you visit these magnificent and historically significant castles?  This small group tour by air conditioned minibus combines information and insights from an expert guide with time to explore on your own with audio guides.  Book Now
• Chateau de Fontainbleau & Chateau de Versailles Private Tour - After picking you up at your hotel, your driver/guide will first take you to the Chateau de Fontainebleau for a private tour of the magnificent palace, where you'll also see Napoleon's Throne.  After lunch in the nearby village, you'll head to Versailles for a tour of the Hall of Mirrors and other famous rooms and a walk around the magnificent gardens before heading back to Paris.   Book Now

12.  A Day in Bruges, Belgium

Sometimes called "the Venice of the North," Bruges looks like it stepped out of a movie set in the Middle Ages with its medieval Flemish architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, winding tree-shaded canals, and photo-worthy bridges. 

Thanks to this comfortable coach tour from Paris, you can get there and back in one day  and still have plenty of time to explore the compact city.  A guide leads you on a walk through the city center and points out the famous cathedral, museums, and other important sites. 

After your guided tour, you're free to take a boat cruise along the picturesque canals (the ticket is included with your tour), photograph the famous Grote Markt (market square) lined with colorful neo-Gothic buildings, and admire the fabulous architecture of City Hall and other buildings in the Burg.

For lunch, savor a bucket of steamed mussels with fries and a mug of Belgium beer at a cafe, and then buy some Belgium chocolates or other souvenirs offered by the many small shops before heading back to Paris. 

Reserve your place on this tour

13.  Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

Imagine spending a day in Bordeaux on the Garonne River in southwestern France, visiting vineyards and sampling a variety of world-famous Bordeaux wines, sightseeing, and perhaps savoring a gourmet lunch in a château.  

Bordeaux is actually quite a distance from Paris, but thanks to high-speed SNCF trains covering almost 200 mph, you can get there in as little as 2 hours and 6 minutes.  Trains leave Paris from the conveniently-located Montparnasse station on the Left Bank, and arrive at the Bordeaux-Saint Jean station.  Getting your round-trip ticket is easy - book online on the official SNCF website.  

Tip:   Book as early as possible for the best selection of cheap tickets, and choose an early arrive to allow plenty of time to connect with your tour group.

To make the most of your time (translation: savor lots of great wines!), join a guided day tour such as the small-group Saint-Emilion & Medoc Wine Day Tour with Lunch.  Your guide will meet you in central Bordeaux for a wine-tasting workshop, and then you'll go by minibus to two different grand chateaus in the Medoc region, where you'll sample at least 10 wines, see beautiful scenery, and enjoy a picnic lunch.  At the end of your tour, you'll return to Bordeaux by minibus, where you can take the train back to Paris.

For a shorter-duration adventure, consider a half-day small-group tour from Bordeaux to Saint Emilion .  In this shorter experience, you'll head out for a guided walking tour of the charming village with its winding lanes and Romanesque churches, and then go in a Mercedes minivan to visit a classified-growth chateau for a wine-tasting.

If you want more than just one day in this fascinating part of France, consider spending a night or two in Bordeaux.  Pro tip:   You'll find much cheaper hotel rates here than in Paris.

Our hotel recommendations for Bordeaux include: 

• Le Palais Gallien Hotel & Spa (144 Rue Abbé de l'Épée) - Gorgeous 5-star boutique hotel in a 19th century mansion with air conditioning plus spacious guestrooms and suites in central Bordeaux; amenities include a seasonal swimming pool and spa
• Mama Shelter Bordeaux (19 Rue Poquelin Molière) - Trendy 2-star hotel designed Philip Starck with super-comfortable beds near the cathedral in central Bordeaux; rooftop bar and restaurant
• Hilton Garden Center (17 Allee de Rio) - This 4-star hotel is close to the river and a short walk from the train station, but a bit outside of Bordeaux center

More Articles about Things to See & Do in Paris

• Sainte Chapelle - See the famous medieval stained glass windows and enjoy candlelight concerts 
• Eiffel Tower Tickets - Best ways to get your Eiffel Tower tickets & avoid waiting in long lines
• First Day in Paris - How to make the most of your first day in Paris even if you're jet lagged
• Classical Concerts in Historic Paris Churches - Where to hear fantastic music in spectacular settings, plus ticket information
• Paris Arrondissements - What to see & do in each of Paris's 20 districts

Want to Save on Your Paris Hotel?

Check our tips on how to find discounts, deals, and bargains for Paris hotels.  Whether you're looking for cheap accommodations or want to pay less for luxury, we'll show you how to save on hotels in Paris.  

Here are some shortcuts: 

• Booking.com: Need last minute reservations?  Check out Today Deals on their website
• Trip Advisor: Use their Best Value Deals & save BIG on your Paris hotel
• Priceline: Find the lowest prices on Paris hotels with their Express Deals

Top Attractions & Tours

• Eiffel Tower - Enjoy sweeping views of Paris
• Louvre Tour - Soak up art & see the Mona Lisa
• Palace of Versailles - Best way to see the famous Chateau
• Paris Museum Pass - Choose 2, 4, or 6 days
• Paris Disneyland - Get express tickets & transport from Paris

Happening in Paris

January in Paris

• The famous Paris winter sales, concerts, new museum exhibits

February in Paris

• Valentine's Day, Chinese New Year Parades

March in Paris

• Mardi Gras, Fountain Shows at Versailles, French Open

April in Paris

• Paris Marathon, Easter concerts, spring flowers

May in Paris

• Mother's Day, jazz festival, concerts

June in Paris

• Summer sales, Pride week, music fests, air show

July in Paris

• Bastille Day, Tour de France, beaches

August in Paris

• Free concerts & movies, Rock En Seine

September in Paris

• European Heritage Days, Fashion Week

October in Paris

• Wine festival, Halloween, Motor Show

November in Paris

• Armistice Day, Salon du Chocolat

December in Paris

• Christmas, New Year's Eve

Hanukkuh in Paris

• Menorah lightings 

Christmas in Paris

• Holiday celebrations & decorations

Christmas Markets

• Gifts, holiday food, mulled wine, and Santa

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Plan Your Paris Trip

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• Best Paris guide books
• Find cheap flights to Paris
• Choose your Paris hotel  
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• What to do & see in each Paris district
• How to spend your first day in Paris

Day Trips from Paris: Exploring the Best of the French Countryside

Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world, known for its iconic landmarks, romantic atmosphere, and rich history. However, for those looking to explore beyond the city limits, there are plenty of exciting day trip options to choose from. Whether you’re interested in historical sites, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, or luxury getaways, there’s something for everyone just a short distance from Paris.

One of the most popular day trip destinations from Paris is the Palace of Versailles, located just 20 kilometers southwest of the city. This opulent palace was once the seat of power for the French monarchy and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the palace’s lavish interiors, wander through the stunning gardens, and learn about the fascinating history of the French royal family.

For those interested in outdoor activities, the Fontainebleau Forest is a great option. Located about an hour southeast of Paris, this vast forest is a popular spot for hiking, rock climbing, and horseback riding. Visitors can also explore the charming town of Fontainebleau, which is home to a beautiful chateau and a number of cozy cafes and restaurants.

Key Takeaways

• There are many exciting day trip options to choose from just a short distance from Paris.
• Popular day trip destinations include the Palace of Versailles and the Fontainebleau Forest.
• Visitors can choose from historical, cultural, outdoor, and luxury experiences when planning their day trips from Paris.

Historical Day Trips

Paris is surrounded by some of the most historically significant sites in the world. Take a day trip from Paris to explore the rich history of France. Here are some of the best historical day trips from Paris:

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous landmarks in France. It was built in the 17th century and served as the residence of Louis XIV, the Sun King. The palace is a masterpiece of French Baroque architecture and features the famous Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed. You can also explore the gardens, which cover over 800 hectares and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau is a stunning palace located just an hour from Paris. It was once the residence of Napoleon and Louis XVI, and features beautiful gardens and an impressive art collection. The palace is also famous for its horseshoe-shaped staircase, which was designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

Normandy D-Day Beaches

The Normandy D-Day Beaches are a must-visit for anyone interested in World War II history. The beaches were the site of the D-Day landings, which marked the beginning of the end of the war. You can visit the American Cemetery and Memorial, where over 9,000 American soldiers are buried, and the Overlord Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from the war.

Château de Chantilly

Château de Chantilly is a beautiful castle located just 40 minutes from Paris. The castle was once the residence of the Duke of Aumale and features an impressive art collection, including works by Raphael, Botticelli, and Delacroix. You can also explore the beautiful gardens, which were designed by André Le Nôtre.

Auvers-Sur-Oise

Auvers-Sur-Oise is a charming village located just 30 minutes from Paris. It was once the home of Vincent van Gogh, and you can visit the house where he lived and the cemetery where he is buried. The village is also home to the Absinthe Museum, which explores the history of the famous drink.

These historical day trips from Paris offer a glimpse into the rich history of France. From the Palace of Versailles to the Normandy D-Day Beaches, there is something for everyone to explore.

Cultural Day Trips

Paris is not only known for its iconic landmarks and museums, but also for its proximity to some of the most culturally rich destinations in France. Here are some of the best cultural day trips from Paris.

Giverny is a charming village located about 80 km west of Paris. The village is famous for being the home of Claude Monet, one of the most celebrated Impressionist painters. Visitors can visit Monet’s house and gardens, which served as the inspiration for some of his most famous works. The gardens are a true masterpiece, with water lilies, Japanese bridges, and a riot of color in every season.

Champagne Region

The Champagne region is located about 150 km east of Paris and is known for its world-famous sparkling wine. Visitors can take a tour of the Champagne houses in Reims, where they can learn about the history and production of Champagne. The region is also known for its cuisine, with Michelin-starred restaurants like Alain Ducasse offering delicious meals paired with local wines.

Lyon is a beautiful city located about 470 km south of Paris. The city is known for its rich history and culture, with UNESCO-listed landmarks like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the historic Old Town. Visitors can also sample the city’s famous cuisine, including local specialties like quenelles and saucisson.

Lille is a charming city located about 220 km north of Paris. The city is known for its Flemish architecture and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which is home to landmarks like the Palais des Beaux-Arts and the Notre-Dame de la Treille Cathedral. The city is also famous for its annual medieval festival, which takes place in September.

Provins is a medieval town located about 90 km southeast of Paris. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history. Visitors can explore the town’s many landmarks, including the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church and the Tour César. The town is also famous for its cider tasting, which is a must-try for any visitor.

These cultural day trips from Paris offer visitors a chance to explore some of the most culturally rich destinations in France. From the gardens of Giverny to the Champagne houses of Reims, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Outdoor Day Trips

Paris is not only known for its iconic landmarks, but also for its beautiful surrounding areas. There are many outdoor day trips that visitors can take to explore the natural beauty of France. Here are some great options for outdoor day trips from Paris:

Forest of Fontainebleau

The Forest of Fontainebleau is located just 55 kilometers southeast of Paris and is a must-visit destination for nature lovers. The forest is a popular spot for hiking, cycling, and bouldering. Visitors can also explore the numerous gardens and chateaus located within the forest. The Chateau de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a particularly impressive castle to visit.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is located approximately 200 kilometers southwest of Paris and is known for its beautiful castles and gardens. Visitors can explore the Chateau de Chambord, the largest castle in the valley, or the Chateau de Chenonceau, which is built over the Cher River. The valley is also a great spot for cycling and hiking, with numerous trails winding through the scenic countryside.

Located just 50 kilometers south of Paris, Barbizon is a charming village that is known for its artistic heritage. Many famous artists, including Jean-Francois Millet, lived and worked in the village during the 19th century. Visitors can explore the Barbizon School Museum and the Millet Workshop, which both feature works by these artists. The village is also a great spot for hiking, with numerous trails winding through the nearby forest.

Overall, these outdoor day trips offer visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris and explore the natural beauty of France. Whether you are interested in gardens, forests, castles, cycling, hiking, or bouldering, there is something for everyone in these destinations.

Family Friendly Day Trips

Paris is a great destination for families with children, and there are plenty of day trips that are perfect for kids of all ages. Here are two recommended options for families looking for a fun and educational day trip outside of the city.

Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is a theme park located about 32 km east of Paris. It is the perfect destination for families with young children who love Disney characters and rides. The park has a wide range of attractions and activities for kids of all ages, including roller coasters, shows, parades, and character meet-and-greets.

Some of the most popular attractions at Disneyland Paris include the Space Mountain roller coaster, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, and the It’s a Small World boat ride. There are also several themed areas within the park, including Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Discoveryland.

Chartres is a small town located about 90 km southwest of Paris. It is known for its beautiful cathedral, which features stunning stained-glass windows that date back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The town is also home to several museums and historic buildings that offer insight into its rich history.

Families can take a guided tour of the cathedral to learn more about its architecture and history, or explore the town’s narrow streets and charming shops on their own. There are also several parks and gardens in the area that are perfect for picnics and outdoor activities.

Overall, both Disneyland Paris and Chartres are great options for families looking for a fun and educational day trip outside of Paris. Whether you’re looking for thrilling rides or historic landmarks, these destinations are sure to provide a memorable experience for everyone.

Luxury Day Trips

For those looking for a more upscale day trip experience, there are several luxurious options within easy reach of Paris. Here are two top picks:

Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte

Located just 55km southeast of Paris, the Château de Vaux-Le-Vicomte is a stunning 17th-century castle that offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of France’s aristocracy. The castle’s beautiful gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre, are a must-see, and visitors can also take a tour of the castle’s interior, which is filled with period furnishings and artwork. For a truly indulgent experience, visitors can book a private tour of the castle, complete with an afternoon tea service.

Trianon Palace

For those seeking a royal experience, the Trianon Palace is a luxurious hotel located just outside of Versailles. Originally built in 1910 as a private residence for a French businessman, the palace has since been converted into a hotel that offers guests a taste of the high life. Visitors can enjoy a meal at the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant, take a dip in the indoor pool, or indulge in a spa treatment. For those interested in history, the hotel is located just minutes from the Palace of Versailles, making it the perfect base for exploring this iconic royal palace.

Further Afield

For travelers looking to explore beyond Paris, there are several exciting day trip destinations to choose from. Here are three options that are worth considering:

While it may seem far-fetched, it is possible to take a day trip from Paris to London. The Eurostar train makes it possible to travel between the two cities in just over two hours. This means that travelers can leave Paris in the morning and be in London in time for lunch. Once there, they can explore iconic landmarks such as Big Ben, the Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace. For those interested in art and culture, the British Museum and the Tate Modern are must-visit destinations.

Bruges is a charming medieval city located in Belgium, just a few hours from Paris. It is known for its picturesque canals, cobblestone streets, and beautiful architecture. Visitors can take a canal boat tour, stroll through the historic city center, and sample delicious Belgian chocolate. One of the highlights of a trip to Bruges is visiting the Markt, the city’s central square, which is home to the Belfry Tower and the famous weekly market.

For wine lovers, a day trip to Bordeaux is a must. This region of France is known for producing some of the world’s finest wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc. Visitors can take a guided tour of a local vineyard, learn about the wine-making process, and sample some of the region’s best wines. In addition to wine, Bordeaux is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Place de la Bourse and the Cathedral of Saint Andrew.

When planning a day trip from Paris, it is important to consider where to stay in Paris. Travelers should choose a hotel that is convenient to the train station or other transportation options. It is also important to research the destination in advance and plan an itinerary that includes the must-see sights and attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some unique day trip destinations near paris.

There are several unique day trip destinations near Paris that are worth exploring. Some of the popular ones include the Palace of Versailles, the medieval town of Provins, the charming village of Giverny, and the historic city of Chartres. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that is different from what you can find in Paris.

Which châteaus near Paris are worth visiting for a day trip?

France is famous for its châteaus and there are several near Paris that are worth visiting for a day trip. Some of the popular ones include Château de Fontainebleau, Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, and Château de Chantilly. Each of these châteaus has a rich history and offers a unique experience.

What are some recommended wine day trips from Paris?

France is known for its wine and there are several wine day trips from Paris that are worth exploring. Some of the popular ones include the Champagne region, the Loire Valley, and the Burgundy region. Each of these regions offers a unique wine tasting experience that is different from the others.

What are some popular weekend getaways from Paris?

There are several popular weekend getaways from Paris that are worth exploring. Some of the popular ones include Normandy, Brittany, and the French Riviera. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience that is different from what you can find in Paris.

What are some nearby countries to visit from Paris?

Paris is located in the heart of Europe and there are several nearby countries that are worth exploring. Some of the popular ones include Belgium, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. Each of these countries offers a unique experience that is different from what you can find in France.

Is Brussels a recommended day trip destination from Paris?

Brussels is a popular day trip destination from Paris and is worth exploring. It is located just a few hours away by train and offers a unique experience that is different from what you can find in Paris. Some of the popular attractions in Brussels include the Grand Place, the Atomium, and the Manneken Pis statue.

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7 easy day trips from Paris we love

Apr 1, 2024 • 8 min read

From the gorgeous gardens of Giverny to a family day out at Disneyland, you can reach fabulous sights within an hour or so of Paris © Franz-Marc Frei / Getty Images

Who would ever want to leave  Paris ? Anyone interested in magnificent châteaux, exquisite gardens, medieval cathedrals and rambling forests.

Indeed, a wealth of treasures for art lovers, families, outdoors enthusiasts and just about anyone can be accessed via an easy train right from the City of Light, providing a sampler of all the wonderful things France has to offer in an easy day trip.

Whether you want to walk in the footsteps of Monet in Giverny, tuck into a medieval banquet in Provins or delight the kids by meeting Mickey Mouse, here are seven of the best day-trip destinations, each within around 90 minutes’ travel time from central Paris.

1. Step into a fairy tale at Château de Chantilly and stroll atmospheric Senlis

Travel time: 25 mins to 1hr 

Rising up from a shimmering lake,  Château de Chantilly and its splendid gardens seem out of a fairy tale. An extraordinary collection of paintings fills its Musée Condé, and you can taste the renowned crème Chantilly (sugar-whipped cream), which was invented here. The domain is perhaps best known for its hippodrome (horse-racing track) and stables, the Grandes Écuries , which contain the Musée Vivant du Cheval , filled with riding-equipment displays, and which also mount dressage shows . From here, riding and walking trails fan out into the forested former royal hunting estate, the Forêt de Chantilly .

From the refined town of Chantilly  itself, regular buses (25 minutes) travel the 6 miles (10km) east to medieval Senlis, whose narrow cobblestone streets, Gallo-Roman ramparts and towers reward an afternoon’s stroll. A royal seat from the 5th century to the early 17th century, Senlis is crowned by the Gothic Cathédrale de Notre Dame . Completed in 1191, the church retains its original stained glass and intricate stone-carved portal. 

How to get to Chantilly from Paris: Chantilly is 31 miles (50km) north of Paris, 1 hour away by car. TER train services (direction Creil) link Paris’ Gare du Nord with Chantilly–Gouvieux train station in 25 minutes.

2. Get a taste of medieval life in Provins 

Travel time: 1hr 20 mins

UNESCO lists the walled town of Provins  as the “ Town of Medieval Fairs ” – and this charming place certainly does a convincing job of channeling the Middle Ages (thankfully, without the stink and plague). Provins’ some 150 medieval structures include the Tour César, the Church of Saint Quiriace and the Grange aux Dîmes, where you can watch a live re-enactment of a medieval market. Elsewhere, you can explore the town’s ramparts, fortified gates and over 6 miles (10km) of underground tunnels.

But it’s the medieval-themed spectacles that most convincingly bring the period to life, making Provins an ideal day trip from Paris for families. Between April and November, visitors can enjoy regular displays of falconry, horsemanship and medieval warfare (complete with trebuchets and jousting), as well as a weekly banquet on Saturday, where you can tuck into medieval food while being entertained by troubadours, acrobats and jugglers.

How to get to Provins from Paris: Provins is located southeast of Paris and can be reached in 1 hour 20 minutes on the P Line from Gare de l’Est (disembark at Provins), or by car.

3. Make a pilgrimage to Chartres, and what might be France’s finest cathedral

Travel time: 1hr 15 mins to 90 mins

France’s best-preserved medieval cathedral is Chartres ’ 13th-century Cathédrale Notre Dame . Built on the site of a Romanesque predecessor that was all but destroyed by a 1194 fire, the staggering structure is topped by Romanesque and Gothic steeples, and is revered for its 176 luminescent, deep-blue stained-glass windows. The sanctuary also houses a number of sacred relics, including the Sainte Voile (Holy Veil), believed to have been worn by the Virgin Mary during Jesus' birth.

Nearby, you can learn more about stained glass at the Centre International du Vitrail , which occupies in a half-timbered former granary, and admire the fine-arts collection at the Musée des Beaux-Arts , in the 18th-century Palais Épiscopal (Bishop’s Palace). From the cathedral’s steps, steep streets lined by medieval houses descend to the western channel of the Eure River. In the newer part of town, bistros surround Chartres’ iron-canopied market (Wednesdays and Saturdays).

How to get to Chartres from Paris:  Chartres is 57 miles (91km) southwest and can be reached by car in roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes. Frequent TER trains link Paris’ Montparnasse with Chartres’ train station, with a journey time of around 1 hour 15 minutes.

4. Channel your inner Impressionist at Giverny

Travel time: 45 mins to 1hr 30 mins

Anyone who loves flowers or art or both must visit Giverny , in Normandy . This tiny village was home to Impressionist Claude Monet from 1883 until his death in 1926, and we recommend a visit between April to October, when the key sights are open and the gardens are in bloom. Monet’s rose-pink, green-shuttered house and the flowering gardens he planted and painted – including the iconic Japanese bridge and water lily pond – are now the Maison et Jardins de Claude Monet . You can also visit the painter’s final resting place: his tombstone is located on the eastern side of Giverny’s L'église Ste-Radegonde .

For more artsy activities, stroll the galleries of the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny for an overview on all things related to the Impressionist movement, with lectures, readings, and concerts taking place regularly. Worked up an appetite? Enchanting Michelin-starred inn Le Jardin des Plumes serves sublime modern French cuisine (each dish almost a work of art in itself), while La Capucine Giverny offers staple dishes in a lovely garden setting.

How to get to Giverny from Paris: Giverny lies 46 miles (74km) northwest of Paris and can be reached in roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. Trains run from Paris’ Gare St-Lazare to Vernon (45 minutes to 1 hour, up to 15 daily), which lies 4 miles (7km) to the west of Giverny. Shuttle buses link Vernon with Giverny in season; alternatively, you can walk, cycle along a dedicated track or take a taxi.

5. Let the Palace of Versailles’ opulence dazzle you

Travel time: 40 to 45 mins

Strolling through the lavishly adorned, 700-room baroque  Château de Versailles  will help you appreciate the outrageous wealth of the French monarchy – and perhaps give you a sense of why the French Revolution took hold. Transformed from a hunting lodge by Louis XIV in the mid-17th century and serving as the seat of the royal court until 1789, this palace complex had as its last royal occupants King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette – both of whom the revolutionaries eventually executed by guillotine.

The most striking features include the opulent Grands Appartements du Roi et de la Reine (King’s and Queen’s State Apartments), and the 246ft-long (75m-long) ballroom Galerie des Glaces (Hall of Mirrors), where 17 massive mirrors face windows that open to the setting sun. After a thorough renovation, Marie Antoinette’s private apartments have recently opened to visitors , too.

Outside, visitors can wander around the beautiful Château de Versailles gardens and park, with their geometrically aligned terraces, 300 or so statues and fountains that “dance” to classical music in the summer months. The estate’s drinking and dining options include the elegant, palace-housed Ore , while those not on royal budgets can find cheaper options in the pretty surrounding town of Versailles  and its  markets .

How to get to Versailles from Paris: Just 14 miles (22km) southwest of central Paris, Versailles is most easily reached by train: take the frequent RER C  from Paris’ Left Bank RER stations to Versailles-Château–Rive Gauche station (journey time: 40 minutes). Alternatively, the travel time by car is around 45 minutes.

6. Follow the many trails through Forêt de Fontainebleau 

Travel time: 40 mins to 1hr 15 mins

Surrounding the elegant town of Fontainebleau , the 108-sq-mile  Forêt de Fontainebleau offers countless walking and cycling trails (including mountain-biking tracks), plus rock climbing on its sandstone ridges and plunging gorges. Fontainebleau’s most impressive human-made site is its royal  château , sprawling over 1900 elaborately gilded, frescoed rooms amid formal French and free-flowing English-style gardens . The first château was built here in the early 12th century; a succession of monarchs subsequently expanded it – most notably Renaissance ruler François I.

Fontainebleau is also awash with lively local bistros such as Le Bistrot 9 . Pick up forest-picnic supplies at wonderful pâtisserie  Dardonville or the bustling town market , which runs on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

How to get t o Fontainebleau from Paris: Fontainebleau is 42 miles (68km) southeast of Paris, with the travel time around 1 hour and 20 minutes by car. R trains link Paris’ Gare de Lyon with Gare de Fontainebleau–Avon station (40 minutes, up to 40 departures daily).

7. Delight the kids with a day at Disneyland Paris

Travel time: 40 mins to 1hr

While most visitors associate Paris with splendid monuments built by French kings , those with young ones in tow can assume the more compelling “kingdom” is the realm of Mickey, Minnie and friends. Within the vast Disneyland Paris complex,  Disneyland Park  is home to five themed “lands” with all the classic sights (Sleeping Beauty’s Castle, turn-of-the-20th-century Main Street USA), quintessential rides (Pirates of the Caribbean, Big Thunder Mountain...) and larger-than-life characters.

Adjacent to Disneyland Park is the separate Walt Disney Studios Park , where high-tech rides such as the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and the delightful Parisian-set Ratatouille – The Adventure are complemented by cinemas, sound stages and behind-the-scenes tours. Deals abound, including tickets covering both parks, so be sure to research ahead of your visit and pre-book online.

How to get to Disneyland Paris: from Paris Disneyland Paris is 20 miles (32km) east of Paris, and journey time is around 40 minutes by car. Frequent RER A trains run from central Paris to Marne-la-Vallée–Chessy (journey time: 40 minutes to 1 hour).

This article was first published Aug 5, 2019 and updated Apr 1, 2024.

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20 Top-Rated Day Trips from Paris

Written by Lisa Alexander Updated Apr 25, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The area surrounding Paris is rich in cultural attractions and natural beauty. By traveling only a short distance, one feels far away from the crowds, lines, and hustle and bustle of the Parisian metropolitan area. All the sights on this list are about an hour or less (by train or car) from the Paris city center.

Tourists can escape to the peaceful countryside, visit charming villages, admire glorious churches, and tour magnificent châteaux. Easy day-trip excursions include the incomparable Château de Versailles, the spectacular Gothic Cathedral of Chartres, the serene abbey of Royaumont, and the wonderfully preserved medieval town of Provins.

For those who love Impressionist art, Monet's Gardens in Giverny are a must-see. History buffs will appreciate the Napoleonic estate of Château de Malmaison, the National Renaissance Museum in Écouen, and Saint-Germain-en-Laye for its antiquities museum. For families with young children, an outing to Disneyland Paris is not to be missed.

Just outside of Paris, an array of sightseeing adventures awaits travelers. Plan your itineraries with our list of the best day trips from Paris.

1. Château de Versailles

2. cathédrale notre-dame de chartres, 3. château de fontainebleau, 5. mont saint-michel, 6. normandy d-day battlefields and landing beaches, 7. château de chantilly, 8. château de vaux-le-vicomte, 9. basilique cathédrale de saint-denis, 10. giverny, 11. provins, 12. disneyland paris, 13. château de malmaison, 14. abbaye de royaumont, 15. château d'écouen (musée national de la renaissance), 16. château de saint-germain-en-laye (musée d'archéologie nationale), 17. auvers-sur-oise, 18. château de rambouillet, 20. compiègne, map of day trips from paris.

The UNESCO-listed Château de Versailles is a marvel of classical French architecture. Designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, the Palace of Versailles was the showpiece of King Louis XIV, who embodied the 17th-century belief in absolute power and the divine right of the monarch.

The famous Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces) was designed to impress the king's courtiers. This extravagant, sparkling reception hall has 17 gigantic gilded mirrors comprised of over 300 mirror segments that reflect the sunlight, creating a sensational effect. In sumptuous Baroque style, crystal chandeliers and elaborate ceiling paintings add to the dazzling impression.

Other highlights of the château include the lavishly decorated Queen's Bedroom , with an exquisite Rococo ceiling, and the Hercules Salon , adorned with The Apotheosis of Hercules ceiling painting by François Lemoyne, as well as a masterpiece by Veronese.

Within the Château de Versailles, visitors have several dining options: the Grand Café d'Orléans , a casual cafeteria-style restaurant at the garden level of the château, accessible via the Cour des Princes without an admission ticket to the château; the Ore restaurant , an elegant café (open for breakfast, lunch, and afternoon tea, pastries, and refreshments) in the Pavillon Dufour on the first floor of the château overlooking the Cour Royale, accessible without an admission ticket via the Cour d'Honneur; and Restaurant Angelina , a refined tea room on the first floor of the château.

In the evenings, the Ore restaurants offers the " Ducasse au Château de Versailles " experience, exclusive gastronomic dinners created by the renowned French chef Alain Ducasse. The menu takes its inspiration from historic meals served at the court of Versailles, and meals are served on the porcelain dinnerware of Marie-Antoinette. The "Ducasse au Château de Versailles" dinners are available upon request, by advanced reservation.

The Château de Versailles is surrounded by 800 hectares of parkland and formal gardens ( Les Jardins ) created by renowned landscape designer André Le Nôtre. Full of fountains, perfectly trimmed shrubs, and tidy flowerbeds, the immaculately manicured gardens rival the château in terms of splendor.

From April through October, visitors marvel over the gorgeous fountains as they dance to the rhythms of Baroque music during the Musical Fountains shows, held on Saturdays and Sundays. The Music Fountains shows are also held on Tuesdays from May through June and on holidays during springtime and summer.

During late spring through early fall, Musical Gardens adds to the charm of visiting the Château de Versailles estate. Musical entertainment enlivens the formal gardens and the groves of the parkland from Tuesday through Friday (days vary depending on the month).

The parkland and gardens of Versailles include several places to dine: La Petite Venise , an Italian restaurant in a Historic Monument (open for lunch and takeaway meals) located between the Bassin d'Apollon and the Grand Canal; Angelina Petit Trianon (in front of the Petit Trianon palace), which serves sandwiches, quiches, salads, and pastries on the outdoor terrace or to take away for picnics; Le Dauphin , a snack stand in the Bosquet du Dauphin, which sells sandwiches, salads, homemade ice cream, and buckwheat crepes; and La Girandole in the Bosquet de la Girandole, another casual café-restaurant that offers sandwiches, crepes, and ice cream.

Versailles is 20 kilometers from the center of Paris and is easily accessed by train, which takes an hour or less (depending on your departure point). To get the most out of a visit to the Château de Versailles, an organized tour is recommended.

A good choice for those who appreciate art and culture, the Versailles and Giverny Day Trip includes guided visits to both the Palace of Versailles and Claude Monet's garden in Normandy. A knowledgeable guide shares historical insights about the Château de Versailles, leaving enough free time to wander about the gorgeous gardens. This tour includes a three-course lunch near Giverny at Le Moulin de Fourges restaurant, housed in an 18th-century riverside watermill inspired by the faux rustic architecture of Marie-Antoinette's hamlet on the Versailles estate.

For a more adventurous way to reach Versailles, take the Versailles Helicopter Tour from Paris . The tour takes participants on a 25-minute round-trip helicopter ride, soaring above the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks in Paris, and then stops near the Château de Versailles.

Read More: From Paris to Versailles: Best Ways to Get There

The beauty of Chartres' Cathedral is said to have inspired faith in the doubtful. It's easy to see why when stepping into this UNESCO World Heritage Site , a breathtaking example of medieval Gothic architecture. In its vast high-vaulted nave, the cathedral features brilliant stained-glass windows that provide the sanctuary with a serene glow. The filtered light lends an otherworldly quality.

Viewers are awed by the intricate details of the windows, the result of painstaking craftsmanship. Some of the windows, such as the venerated Notre Dame de la Belle Verrière , date to the 12th century; the majority are from the 13th century. The immense rose windows are especially stunning. Other highlights include the La Vie de la Vierge ( Life of the Virgin ) window and the L'Arbre de Jessé ( Tree of Jesse ) window, which shows the genealogical tree of Jesus Christ.

Every evening (nightfall until 1am) from early April through the holiday season, the town of Chartres has a spectacular nighttime light show. Chartres en Lumières illuminates the town's historic monuments, including the cathedral, using creative visuals and vibrant colors.

The cathedral also hosts the "Grand Prix de Chartres" (International Organ Festival) with free concerts every Sunday afternoon in July and August. During the festival, musicians compete to win the Grand Prix de Chartres prize.

Address: 16 Cloître Notre Dame, 28000 Chartres

About an hour's drive from Paris, Fontainebleau is a royal French château at its finest. Surrounded by forests and a lush parkland of 130 hectares, the UNESCO-listed Château de Fontainebleau was a residence of France's sovereigns for eight centuries. The original medieval château (dating to the 12th century) was almost entirely rebuilt when François I ordered renovations in 1528.

As a literary king and patron of the arts, François I created a spectacular Italian-style palace that is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. François I commissioned the best Italian artisans and artists of his time to decorate the interior. Today, the château houses an outstanding art collection of approximately 30,000 pieces dating from the 16th century to the 19th century.

With 1,500 rooms, Château de Fontainebleau is one of the best places in France to see a fully furnished castle. The opulent Appartements Royaux (Royal Apartments) of Château de Fontainebleau reveal the influence of various royals. The Boudoir d'Argent de la Reine , sumptuously adorned with Neoclassical art and gilded paneling, reveals the refined taste of Marie-Antoinette.

After the French Revolution, Napoléon I made Fontainebleau an Imperial palace, adding his signature classical-inspired decor to his apartment. Napoléon was particularly fond of Fontainebleau but had to sign his first abdication here on April 6, 1814.

Equaling the beauty of the interior, the Jardins du Château exemplify classic French style, with delightful pools; statues; and a Grand Parterre created by André Le Nôtre, who designed the garden at Versailles. The 130-hectare parkland offers opportunities for outdoor activities , including jaunts by horse-drawn carriage and boating. The Petit Train ride amuses the youngest visitors.

To see all of the highlights of the Château de Fontainebleau requires at least a half day and could take a full day. A guided tour allows for the most rewarding visit. Many tourists enjoy a day trip tour from Paris that stops at two of the most splendid castles in France: Château de Fontainebleau and Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Address: Château de Fontainebleau, 77300 Fontainebleau

With its delicate Flemish architecture; narrow, old streets; and quaint canals, Bruges offers the captivating charm of another era. This wonderfully well-preserved medieval town in Belgium has a rich history, as an important trading port from the 12th to 15th centuries.

Known as the "Venice of the North" because of its waterways, Bruges enchants visitors with its many things to see and do . The town is filled with ornate churches and exceptional art museums, as well as many small boutiques that sell delicious artisanal Belgian chocolates.

Although Bruges is in Belgium, it is only about a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris, which makes it possible to visit as a day trip. An easier way to discover Bruges is by taking an organized tour. An excellent choice is the Bruges Day Trip from Paris , which includes a guided walking tour of the town plus a canal cruise (offered from spring through autumn).

Read More: From Paris to Bruges: Best Ways to Get There

One of the most awe-inspiring spiritual sights in France, the island of Mont Saint-Michel rises out of the waters of Normandy's Baie de Saint-Michel. The UNESCO-listed Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel stands on the highest point of the island. An important medieval pilgrimage site, this medieval Benedictine abbey is a marvel of Gothic architecture presiding over the sea, with graceful cloisters and a majestic church.

At high tide, Mont Saint-Michel appears as a distant mystical island, while at low tide, it is possible to walk from the mainland to the island just as pilgrims approached it in the Middle Ages. The entire island of Mont Saint-Michel is well-preserved, with a village atmosphere, ancient cobblestone streets, and old-fashioned shops.

To see all the sights on Mont Saint-Michel (the abbey's church, cloister, village, and ramparts) takes at least four hours, if not an entire day. Since it's a long drive (around four hours) from Paris, the best way to visit Mont Saint-Michel is either by staying overnight or taking an organized day-trip tour.

The Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip from Paris is a full-day tour that includes a scenic drive through Normandy, lunch, and a guided visit to the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. The tour also leaves free time to stroll the narrow, old streets; peek into enticing little boutiques; and admire views of the bay.

Read More: From Paris to Mont Saint-Michel: Best Ways to Get There

On June 6, 1944, the battles of the D-Day became the turning point in World War II that allowed the Allies to gain a favorable advantage. Evidence of the wartime bunkers and tanks still stands on the sandy beaches that were landing sites.

For many American tourists, visiting Normandy's D-Day landing beaches and memorials is a moving experience.

Omaha Beach is the most famous of the Normandy landing beaches and was the scene of the bloodiest D-Day battle. Overlooking Omaha Beach is the largest American cemetery in Normandy, with 9,000 gravestones. Nearby, the Overlord Museum chronicles the D-Day Allied landings and the Liberation of Paris.

The Caen Mémorial museum is an excellent place to learn more about the Battle of Normandy and other World War II military history. The Musée du Débarquement in Arromanches illustrates the heroic operation of the Mulberry Harbor, one of the most challenging events of the war.

While the Normandy D-Day museums provide an excellent background to the D-Day battles, the best way to explore the Normandy Landing Beaches is by taking a guided small-group tour. The Normandy D-Day Beaches & American Cemetery Tour includes stops at Omaha Beach, Arromanches, and the Caen Mémorial museum, led by a knowledgeable guide, who shares insights about the D-Day battles and the historical context.

Read More: From Paris to Normandy: Best Ways to Get There

An easy day trip from Paris (only 25 minutes by train from Gare du Nord), the grandiose Château de Chantilly is a remarkable Renaissance castle in a unique setting. Surrounded by woodlands and swampy marshlands, the castle appears to be floating above the property's man-made ponds and canals.

The château interior features lavish Rococo decor and precious furnishings. Within the château, a fine arts museum displays a vast collection of historical paintings that is second in importance to the Louvre Museum. The galleries include many masterpieces, such as works by Botticelli, Raphaël, Philippe de Champaigne, Poussin, Ingres, and Delacroix.

The Château de Chantilly is also renowned for its expansive formal garden (Jardin à la Française) designed by André Le Nôtre, with his signature French-style flowerbeds, geometric design, and elegant fountains.

Tucked away in the Anglo-Chinese Garden of the chateau's 115-hectare parkland is a collection of small rustic houses, originally surrounded by an orchard and vegetable gardens. These thatched-roof cottages , which give the impression of a tiny country village in a pastoral landscape, provided the inspiration for Marie-Antoinette's hamlet at Versailles.

Chantilly is one of the best places to visit near Paris for outdoor activities. There are many enjoyable things to do in the Château de Chantilly park, such as boating, cycling, romantic strolls, and attending equestrian shows.

Children enjoy taking a ride on the Petit Train , a 35-minute excursion through the park and gardens. On this pleasant joyride, the Little Train passes by the formal garden, the Grand Canal, and the hamlet of the Anglo-Chinese Garden.

Other visitor amenities at the Chantilly estate include two gift shops, as well as two options for meals and snacks: La Capitainerie , an upscale fine-dining restaurant; and Le Hameau restaurant (open March - November), in a delightful little house of the château's hamlet, which serves lunch and desserts made with the famous Crème Chantilly (whipped cream).

Visitors can enjoy a luxurious overnight stay near the château at a five-star Relais & Châteaux hotel, the Auberge du Jeu de Paume . Guest rooms offer the elegance and refinement of an 18th-century French mansion. Gourmands will be delighted by the haute-cuisine at the hotel's Michelin-starred restaurant, La Table du Connétable , which has seating that overlooks the gardens of the Château de Chantilly. Other amenities include a fitness center, spa, concierge, room service, a boutique that sells regional products, an inviting lounge, and a casual bistro.

Address: 7 Rue Connétable, Le Château, 60500 Chantilly

Official site: https://chateaudechantilly.fr/en/

Nicolas Fouquet, minister of finance to Louis XIV, commissioned the best architect (Louis Le Vau) and artists of his time to build this sumptuous château. However, Fouquet's enjoyment of his castle was short-lived. After hosting a lavish celebration for Louis XIV on August 17, 1661 at his new estate, Fouquet was the next day accused of embezzlement. Three weeks later he was sentenced to life imprisonment, and Vaux-le-Vicomte was confiscated.

Today the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is a private estate that is listed as a Historic Monument and is open to the public. The estate is also a coveted venue for weddings and has been used as the location set for more than 80 film productions.

Beautifully preserved over the centuries, Vaux-le-Vicomte is a rare example of a French château that has retained its furnishings and decor from the 17th century. Fouquet's private apartments on the First Floor are mostly in their original state.

André Le Nôtre designed the 33-hectare Formal Gardens of Vaux-le-Vicomte in classic 17th-century French style, with geometric lines, elaborate fountains, and graceful statues. Because the garden made such a dazzling impression, Louis XIV hired Le Nôtre to landscape the grounds of the Château de Versailles.

The château looks most enchanting on Candlelit Evenings , every Saturday from mid-May through September and every Friday from early July through August, when the gardens are illuminated by more than two thousand flickering candles.

The 500-hectare estate of the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte has two picnic areas; Le Relais de l'Ecureuil, a casual self-service restaurant; Les Charmilles, which offers a romantic fine-dining experience on Saturday night Candlelit Evenings, with meals served on a terrace overlooking the formal gardens; and Jean de La Fontaine's table in the formal gardens, for dinners on Friday night Candlelit Evenings during July and August.

The château also hosts events throughout the year, such as period costume parties and Christmas festivities . For children, one of the most fun things to do at the château is the annual Easter egg hunt in the gardens.

Address: Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, 77950 Maincy

Official site: http://www.vaux-le-vicomte.com/en/

An easy day trip from Paris (10 kilometers away), the Basilique Cathédrale de Saint-Denis is a masterpiece of early Gothic architecture. Construction of the basilica was begun in the 12th century, when churches began to transition from Romanesque to Gothic style, and completed in the 13th century. The sanctuary's spacious high-vaulted nave and sublime stained-glass windows impart a sense of airiness as well as serenity.

Since early Christian times, Saint-Denis has been an important place of pilgrimage. The legend of Saint Dionysius describes how, after his beheading on the Butte Montmartre, the saint carried his head in his hands to the place where he desired to be buried. A church was built on the spot in the 5th century, followed in the 7th century by the foundation of an abbey.

Devoted to the patron saint of France, the Basilique Cathédrale de Saint-Denis stands on the location of Saint Denis' grave. This sacred house of worship is the royal burial place of 43 French kings and 32 queens.

Address: 1 Rue de la Légion d'Honneur, 93200 Saint-Denis

Impressionist art lovers will appreciate a visit to Giverny, about 75 kilometers from Paris (less than 45 minutes by train). In a beautiful setting on the Seine River, the village of Giverny is most famous for its association with Claude Monet.

The artist discovered the beauty of Giverny in 1883 and stayed here for thirty years. During the same time, other artists were attracted to the area and were influenced by Monet's techniques of painting in nature.

The top attraction in Giverny is Claude Monet's House & Gardens , a charming countryside retreat where Monet painted his renowned Water Lilies paintings. Tourists can see the water lily pond, with its iconic Japanese bridge, and wander about Monet's blossoming flower garden.

For an insider's tour of Claude Monet's house and gardens, take the Skip the Line: Giverny and Monet House Half-Day Trip from Paris . On this five-hour tour, a knowledgeable guide leads a walking tour through the gardens, pointing out the weeping willows, orchids, and water lilies that inspired Monet's paintings.

For those interested in visiting both Versailles and Giverny on the same day, an excellent choice is the Versailles and Giverny Day Trip , which stops for lunch at a charming riverside restaurant outside of Giverny.

During the 12th and 13th centuries, Provins was a bustling city, where merchants gathered for trade fairs, and trouvères (troubadours) sang ballads about courtly love. This captivating walled medieval town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with more than 50 listed Historic Monuments. The ambience of the Middle Ages is uncovered in quaint half-timbered houses, a maze of winding streets, and spacious public squares once used for markets.

The Ramparts with fortified gates built in the 12th and 13th centuries are a top attraction. Visitors can stroll alongside the defensive walls via the Allée des Remparts and the Allée des Lépreux.

Another must-see sight, the Tour César is a 12th-century tower that served as a fortress under King Henry the Liberal; the building exemplifies medieval military architecture and houses the Saint-Quiriace Collegiate church (which was never completed).

The most noteworthy church in Provins is the 11th-century Prieuré Saint-Ayoul , which features a bright and inspiring sanctuary. Saint Ayoul's relics made the church a pilgrimage site in the Middle Ages.

The Maison Romane (Romanesque House) is the oldest edifice in Provins. Today, the building houses an excellent antiquities collection, including Merovingian sculptures and Gallo-Roman tiles and pottery.

Provins hosts several historical reenactments that bring the medieval world to life. Once a year, Provins hosts the Les Médiévales de Provins during a lively weekend of entertainment. This medieval festival includes a medieval ball, medieval music concerts, dances, troubadour performances, games, jesters, acrobatic shows, and a costume parade. A highlight of the festival, the Eagles of Ramparts show gives visitors a glimpse of the ancient art of falconry.

A perfect day trip for families with kids, Disneyland Paris is a gigantic fairyland of fantasy and adventure. A top attraction is Sleeping Beauty Castle , which depicts the story of Sleeping Beauty in stained glass and tapestries, while the vaulted cellars are occupied by a fire-breathing dragon. Other favorite areas are Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs , the Mad Hatter's Tea Cups spinning ride, and it's a small world cruise.

Disneyland Paris has several hotels and over 50 different restaurants. From Paris, it's an easy journey by taking the RER Line A train from Chatelet Les Halles to Marne-la-Vallée (the ride takes about 40 minutes). There is also a direct TGV train from Charles de Gaulle airport to Marne-la-Vallée.

Address: Disneyland Paris, 77777 Marne-la-Vallée

Official site: www.disneylandparis.com

In the suburb of Rueil-Malmaison, the Château de Malmaison (which houses the Museé des Châteaux de Malmaison et de Bois Préau) is a worthwhile and easy excursion from central Paris. The château, built in 1620, exemplifies Early Baroque style.

The château was acquired in 1799 by Joséphine de Beauharnais, Napoléon Bonaparte's first wife. After separating from Napoléon in 1809, she lived here alone. As the château was her private residence (rather than an official palace), it has an intimate feeling despite the grand Empire style.

Joséphine used her home to host social gatherings and concerts. She also took an interest in landscaping and botany. Reflecting this passion, the château has a beautiful rose garden filled with flowers that bloomed here during Joséphine's time.

Address: Avenue du Château de Malmaison, 92500 Rueil-Malmaison

The Abbaye de Royaumont is a Cistercian abbey surrounded by dense woodlands in a peaceful setting that feels much farther away than 49 kilometers from Paris. The Royaumont Abbey offers a welcome retreat in nature and a place for spiritual contemplation.

Founded in 1228 by King Louis IX (Saint Louis), the abbey was created as a place of theological study. Visitors can take a guided tour of the beautiful Gothic abbey and see where the monks prayed, read holy texts, and prepared meals in the refectory. The old sacristy has been converted into an intimate chapel.

A highlight of the abbey is the grounds, including a serene cloister, idyllic gardens, and an expansive park, which inspire relaxation and meditation.

For those seeking a relaxing escape, the abbey offers welcoming bed-and-breakfast accommodations for overnight stays on Saturday evenings. Besides offering a restful night's sleep, the experience includes fine dining in a gorgeous 13th-century vaulted hall. The gourmet cuisine of the La Table de Royaumont restaurant is prepared from local and seasonal farm-fresh ingredients. The restaurant serves dinner on Saturday evenings and lunch on Sundays.

The abbey also has a salon de thé (tea salon) with a garden terrace and a bookstore/gift shop that sells local artisanal products and books about art, history, architecture, music, and gardening.

Address: 95270 Asnières-sur-Oise

Official site: https://www.royaumont.com/en

The Château d'Écouen presides over a 17-hectare estate, surrounded by the vast Forest of Chantilly just 20 kilometers north of Paris. This impressive Renaissance château was built in the 16th century for the Duc Anne de Montmorency, a philanthropist and patron of the arts. The sumptuous interior of the château displays many remarkable pieces from the Duke of Montmorency's art collection.

The château houses the Musée National de la Renaissance (National Museum of the Renaissance), which contains a renowned art collection that includes Renaissance decorative arts (furniture, ceramics, stained glass) as well as paintings and tapestries. One of the highlights is a tapestry that depicts the history of David and Bathsheba ; another masterwork is the 16th-century Jupiter and Latona tapestry, a piece once owned by Diane de Poitiers.

The Musée National de la Renaissance is open year-round every day except Tuesdays. The museum also hosts Renaissance-themed exhibitions throughout the year. Guided tours are available.

Visitors will want to spend some time exploring the château's lovely park, which is open daily. The château property includes a restaurant, À la Table des Rois, which is open every day (except Mondays and Tuesdays) from 10:30am until 5:30pm.

Address: Château d'Écouen, Rue Jean Bullant, Écouen

The birthplace of the composer Claude Debussy and King Louis XIV, the town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye boasts one of the most beautiful castles in France.

In the 12th century, King Louis VI built a fortress here on a plâteau above the Seine River, although it was destroyed by the English during a war in the 14th century. Successive monarchs Charles V and François I rebuilt the castle complex. Except for the 13th-century Chapelle Saint-Louis, the rest of the buildings date to the 16th and 17th centuries.

The Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye houses the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale (National Museum of Archaeology), the only museum in France devoted entirely to archaeology. This extensive collection includes archeological finds and prehistoric art from all over France, spanning the Paleolithic era (including the Venus of Brassempouy) to the Bronze Age and Celtic and Gallo-Roman times.

Surrounded by 3,500 hectares of forest, the 40-hectare estate of the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye has splendid grounds featuring formal French gardens designed by André Le Nôtre, as well as a romantic English garden created in the 19th century. From the Grande Terrasse of the formal gardens, there is a magnificent view across the Seine River towards Paris.

The Musée d'Archéologie Nationale is open year-round daily except Tuesdays. The park and gardens of the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye estate are open every day of the year except December 25th, January 1st, and May 1st.

Address: Place Charles de Gaulle, 78100 Saint-Germain-en-Laye

The charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise was a favorite destination of many Impressionist artists, who came here to paint the bucolic scenery. This picturesque village takes visitors into the quaint world of the French countryside, about an hour drive or train ride from Paris.

The town's must-see site is the Eglise Notre-Dame d'Auvers , a Romanesque church built in the late 11th century. Perched at the top of the village, this church was immortalized by Vincent van Gogh in his painting L'Eglise d'Auvers -sur-Oise, vue du chevet . There is a statue of Vincent van Gogh by the sculptor Zadkine in the town's Parc van Gogh .

For those seeking the trail of Vincent van Gogh, the Auberge Ravoux , also known as the Maison de van Gogh (House of Van Gogh), is where the artist rented a room for bed and board beginning on May 20, 1890. The Ravoux Inn no longer has rooms available but has retained its restaurant with the same decor of a 19th-century artists' café. Van Gogh sat at a table at the back of the dining room. The restaurant serves classic French cuisine prepared from local ingredients.

A listed Historic Monument, La Maison-Atelier de Daubigny was the house and atelier of Charles François Daubigny, a celebrated landscape painter. It's easy to see why Daubigny chose this house with its delightful flowering garden. Daubigny turned his atelier into an artistic center where other artists gathered to socialize and work. Today, the Maison-Atelier de Daubigny is open to the public as a museum and displays the works of Daubigny, as well as his artist friends, including Corot, Daumier, Dechaume, and Oudinot.

On the outskirts of the town in a pristine forest, the exquisite 17th-century Château d'Auvers-sur-Oise is surrounded by lovely formal French gardens. The château presents an innovative multimedia exhibit, the " Impressionist Vision " designed as an immersive experience to teach visitors about Impressionist art. For lunch and afternoon snacks, the château has a chic restaurant that serves a seasonal menu.

Nestled in the dense woodland between Versailles and Chartres, this magnificently furnished château boasts more than 20,000 hectares of parkland. The park offers pleasant walking trails through the refreshing forest of Rambouillet. Although the Château de Rambouillet is the summer residence of the President of the Republic, it is open to visitors.

The château was built in 1706 for the Comte de Toulouse. In 1783, the château was acquired by King Louis XVI, who used it as a hunting lodge. He created the Laiterie de la Reine , a dairy built for Marie-Antoinette that resembled a Greek temple. The château's 150-hectare property is classified as a Jardin Remarquable (Remarkable Garden).

Napoléon made the château his residence, and since 1959 it has been a part-time residence of the French President. The richly decorated interior features fine Delft tiles and period furniture. Notable rooms are the 16th-century Salle de Marbre (Marble Hall), the 18th-century Council Chamber , the bathrooms installed by Napoléon in 1809 and the Ballroom with Aubusson tapestries. Not to be missed is La Chaumière aux Coquillages, adorned with exquisite decor featuring pearls and seashells.

Address: 78120 Rambouillet

Official site: http://www.chateau-rambouillet.fr/en/

Brimming with Old World charm, this small historic town lies about 50 kilometers northeast of Paris. Senlis was an important religious city (the see of a Bishop) from the 3rd century until 1790.

The old town is dominated by the majestic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Senlis , constructed between 1153 and 1184. This awe-inspiring cathedral represents various Gothic styles, as the edifice was renovated in the 13th century and the 16th century. The richly carved main doorway depicts the triumph of the Virgin. The beautiful interior, dating to the 12th century, is one of the earliest Gothic naves in France.

Near the cathedral are the remains of the town's Gallo-Roman walls and of the vestiges of a medieval castle, the Château Royal . In the park of the Château Royal is the Musée de la Vénerie (Hunting museum), which illustrates the art and history of hunting; the museum displays weapons, costumes, hunting horns, and trophies. On the western outskirts of the town are the remains of an ancient Roman amphitheater .

Steeped in history, the city of Compiègne is remarkable for its royal legacy and Imperial Palace. Louis XV built the grandiose Neoclassical Château de Compiègne , and Louis XVI enlarged it in the 18th century. After the French Revolution, Napoleon I made the palace his own, and later Napoleon III enhanced it further in glorious Second Empire style.

The Château de Compiègne is surrounded by an enchanting 700-hectare parkland featuring pavilions and neoclassical marble statues. Within the lush grounds is a delightful Jardin des Roses (Rose Garden) created in the 19th century and the five-kilometer-long Allée des Beaux-Monts, a pathway through the forest that affords stunning views of the château.

Official site: https://chateaudecompiegne.fr/en/royal-and-imperial-palace

More on France

16 Best day trips from Paris: A local’s guide to nearby places you shouldn’t miss

• Post category: Paris & Île-de-France
• Post author: Nassie Angadi

There is never enough time to see everything in Paris. It is one of those cities with a gazillion nooks and crannies, and no one (even people living here) can cover it all.

And so, on top of all that, I will add to your “to-see” list by noting some fantastic day trips from Paris that you must absolutely squeeze in some time for!

Now one thing I will note is my criteria for a good day trip from Paris:

• the distance
• the accessibility
• whether it is actually worth doing as a “day trip”

I have seen a lot of websites that suggest large cities like Strasbourg or Bordeaux as day trips from Paris, and for me that is slightly nuts.

There is so much to see in Strasbourg and Alsace that just because you can go there in 2 hours (by high-speed train), doesn’t mean that you actually should. Instead, I would recommend staying overnight to truly experience it. Indeed, there is so much to see and do in Alsace, you are better off spending the week there!

Certain places just require more time, and so I’ve left those off of the list. We’re looking for practical places to visit, where it makes sense to go as a day trip, rather than stay in the area. So let’s get to it, shall we? Allons-y!

1. Mont Saint Michel

One of the most beautiful and unique sights in the world, Mont Saint Michel is a vision to behold. Legend has it that the archangel Michael appeared to St. Aubert of Avranches in 708 and instructed him to build a church on a large rock.

Surrounded by marshland, it turns the UNESCO World heritage site into an island when the tide comes in. The Abbey of Mont Saint Michel only has 7 monks living there these days, but it is still one of the most spectacular churches in France .

It takes about 4 hours to get there from Paris, and to get there from Paris you can take the train from Paris’ Gare Montparnasse to the city Rennes (2 hours), from where SNCF buses travel to Mont St. Michel (1.5hrs).

It is a bit of an adventure though, so this one day trip that I would strongly recommend going with a tour company . You can read more about visiting Mont Saint Michel here.

2. Palace of Versailles

The rise of the palace of the Sun King Louis XIV , followed by the eventual fall of his dynasty, the Palace of Versailles is a place filled with history and tinged with sadness.

You can just imagine Queen Marie Antoinette walking through the famous Hall of Mirrors and the Petit Trianon, her private sanctuary.

Just outside the city, Versailles is a wonderful day trip from Paris. It does get quite crowded in the summer time though, so go early in the day to give yourself time to explore before the crowds arrive.

You can read more about visiting the Château de Versailles and its coach gallery here, and find tour companies to guide you through the palace in style.

3. Disneyland Paris

If you are traveling with a family (and even if you are not) you cannot miss going to the Chateau of Mickey. Disneyland Paris actually is much cheaper, compared to other Disneylands in the U.S., Japan, and elsewhere.

The park is split into two parts: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios. You can buy tickets for both parks, or just one.

There is also the Disney Village which is outside the theme parks and free to visit. You can read more about visiting Disneyland Paris here. Like with most things around Paris, it is best to skip the line and buy tickets and transportation in advance.

4. Giverny and Claude Monet Gardens

Even if you don’t like art, you will enjoy the trip out to idyllic Giverny and the French countryside. It is about 70 km northwest of Paris, but like stepping into another world.

This was the sanctuary of Impressionist artist Claude Monet , one of the most famous French artists of all time . You can visit his home, his famous gardens, as well as the Museum of Impressionism which holds some of his works and other impressionists from that era.

You can find tour companies that take you from Paris and stop at Giverny , providing a relaxing lunch along the way.

5. Château de Fontainebleau

In the words of Napoleon Bonaparte , Château de Fontainebleau was “the true home of kings, the house of ages.” While the glamorous Château de Versailles was a bit of a party palace, Château de Fontainebleau was the original working royal palace , constructed centuries earlier.

Further away from Paris than Versailles, Fontainebleau was originally constructed as a hunting lodge. Today it houses two exhibitions, both on larger-than-life French Kings: François I and Napoleon Bonaparte .

Of all the magnificent châteaux near Paris , this is perhaps the one with the most history. Both the Château de Fontainebleau and the Palace of Versailles are recognized as UNESCO world heritage sites.

You can read more about Château de Fontainebleau here, and find recommended tours from Paris .

6. Parc Asterix

If you were a fan of the comic books growing up, you cannot miss Parc Asterix. Located in North of Paris, Asterix and Obelix are here to give that foreign interlocutor Mickey Mouse a run for his money.

The story is set in 50 BC when the dastardly Roman Empire has invaded Gaul (“old France”) . Asterix and Obelix cheerfully fight a good fight though, to keep them at bay. The theme park is set up in a way to cover all the areas that our two heroes have their adventures.

• Via Antiqua which is the main street with shops and restaurants.
• the Roman Empire
• Ancient Greece
• The village of the Gaulois
• Land of the Vikings with several large rollercoasters.
• Medieval France
• Egypt which is the newest section

This is the French alternative to Disney, and definitely worth a day trip from Paris. You can read more about visiting Parc Asterix here, as well as transportation options from Paris .

7. Chateau de Chantilly

Situated in the north of Paris, Château de Chantilly is an architectural marvel. It is actually built in the 11th century on marshland to protect the road to Senlis , the ancient city of the French Kings.

Chantilly was also the home of the son of the last King of France, Henri d’Orleans who dedicated his life to it restoring and preserving it.

Inside the Château is the 2nd largest collection of antique paintings in France, after the Louvre Museum in Paris . In addition, the Château’s library holds over 60,000 volumes,  second only to the National Library of France.

Amongst its treasures are over 1,500 manuscripts and 17,500 printed documents on all sorts of subjects, dating from as early as the 11th century.

You can read more about visiting Château de Chantilly here and see tour and transportation options from Paris.

8. Loire Valley

It is lucky that the Loire Valley is about 2.5 hours away from Paris (by car), because that meant many of its luxurious renaissance châteaux were saved from the destruction of the French Revolution .

Chateau de Chenonceau and Chambord are two of its most famous. The beautiful city of Amboise has its own Royal Château that you shouldn’t miss, along with nearby Châteaux of Blois , Chéverny , Chaumont , and Villandry .

In addition, the Loire Valley is a wine-producing region , so there are many popular white wines that are grown in the region. The area is the second-largest concentration of sparkling-wine producing vines in France after the Champagne region.

And since they don’t build train stations next to castles, I would highly recommend taking a tour from Paris. There are several tours that combine wine-tasting and château-hopping as a day trip, or longer if you choose. You can see Loire Valley tour options here.

9. Reims & Champagne region

If you enjoy Champagne (who doesn’t), then a champagne tasting tour from Paris should definitely be on your “to-do” list. There are several different types of champagne , so this is your chance to try a few different varieties.

In addition, the capital of the Champagne Region, Reims is most famous for its gothic Cathedral and the place where the Kings of France were crowned .

A bit of culture, a bit of Champagne, and a designated driver . Who could ask for anything more?

10. Normandy: D-Day Beaches

There is a lot to see in Normandy , but if you are short on time and want to pay your respects to the soldiers who fought so bravely on D-Day, a day trip from Paris is quite do-able.

There are many cemeteries, monuments, and museums dedicated to the lives of those soldiers and those living in France at the time. A somber journey, but one that is worth the trip.

One the closest beaches that Americans will want to visit is Omaha beach . It is estimated that 34,000 American and Allied soldiers landed here on June 6th, 1944. Between 2,000 – 5,000 soldiers were killed, wounded, or were deemed missing along this stretch of Normandy coastline.

You can read more about visiting the D-day beaches here, as well as see tour options to visit the D-day beaches, the Allied cemeteries and more here.

11. Château de Breteuil

Located in the South west suburb of Yveline, outside of Paris, Château of Breteuil tries to entertain as well as provide a sense of history.

A privately owned castle, Château de Breteuil has adopted the theme of fairytales and put in place several wax figures and puppet shows showing daily life at the castle, as well as reenacting several famous children’s’ stories.

If you have small children, a visit to the château is a must. You can read more about visiting Château de Breteuil here.

12. France Miniature

If you are wondering how to squeeze all these day trips in, in a limited amount of time, the France Miniature theme park outside of Paris, may be the one you want. The most beautiful French cities, attractions all monuments, all replicated and miniaturized to 1/30th the size.

It is the biggest miniature park of its kind in Europe, spanning over 5 hectares, laid out in the topography of France from north to south.

Small buildings built with care, with tiny details that have been exquisitely added to make you feel like you are looking at the real thing. You can read more about visiting France Miniature here.

13. Etretat in Normandy

Étretat in Normandy is one of those places that is very famous in France, but quite unknown to foreigners and tourists.

A small town on the north coast of France, the area is known for the striking rock formations known as  falaises  in French, that carved out of its white cliffs.

With award-winning gardens, beautiful seashore, and a charming old town, there is plenty to see and do in Etretat. You can read more about visiting Etretat here, and find out about tour options from Paris .

14. Château de Vaux le Vicomte

The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is best known as the château that inspired the Palace of Versailles. When Sun King Louis XIV saw the house of his finance minister Nicolas Fouquet, he became so jealous he had Fouquet imprisoned and sequestered his château.

He then got the architects and workers who had worked on Vaux-le-Vicomte to go design his château at Versailles. Today, the Château Vaux-le-Vicomte remains an impressively beautiful château that has several events held here all year around.

During Christmas and Easter , the Château is sumptuously decorated for the holidays attracting visitors from all over France. In summertime, the grounds are lit up with candles and there are evening candle-lit dinners held for visitors along with a fireworks show.

In addition, there are period costumes available to rent for men, women, and children to dress up in as they tour the château and take pictures.

The easiest way to get to the Château is by guided tour. It is near the royal palace Château de Fontainebleau , so many tours combine the two. You can see the guided tours with transport here.

15. Provins

About an hour away from Paris by train, Provins is an ancient fortress town that is so well preserved, it has been inscribed on UNESCO’s world heritage list.

But Provins was never a royal city. Instead it was a city where nobility and royalty sent their servants to do their shopping. The town held the letters patent to hold annual events called the foires de Champagne (Champagne fairs), where tradespeople and merchants from far and wide would come to sell their wares.

This medieval town is best known these days for its famous “rose de provins”, which is used to make all kinds of rose confectionary.

There are also plenty of towers, ramparts, and dungeons to visit, along with a pedestrianized town center. You can read more about visiting Provins here.

16. Chartres

Located in the Centre-Val de Loire region, Chartres is famous for its cathedral which is considered a gothic masterpiece. With its intricate statues on the exterior and and 24-hour astronomical clock, it is definitely a sight to behold.

With charmingly narrow streets that open on to wide open squares, this city is known for its impressive architectural heritage and history. You can read more about visiting Chartres here.

So what are your favorite day trips from Paris that you would love to recommend? If you enjoyed reading that article, you may want to read more about things to do in Paris . A bientôt!

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Eat Across the French Countryside on Three Heavenly Day Trips From Paris

A rustic chateau run by some of Paris’s hottest chefs, an eco-friendly inn hosting buzzy summer garden parties, a modern Flemish canteen from a Top Chef star, and more food-centered escapes in the French countryside

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Paris could satisfy any diner’s hunger and curiosity pretty much forever, but it’s a mistake to limit yourself to eating in the capital exclusively. You’d miss out on some truly compelling food experiences only a short drive or train ride away. So if you’re planning to launch from Paris to check out the cultural highlights, monuments, and natural landscapes that lay beyond city limits, make sure to include stops — for a day, an overnight stay, or a full weekend — at some of France’s most stunning restaurants and guesthouses.

Île de France

Paris may be its center but the broader region surrounding the capital in north-central France includes iconic forests and landmarks — Versailles, the chateau and forest in Fontainebleau, the Basilica of Saint-Denis — as well as exciting meals just beyond the portes.

Location: Saint-Vrain Distance from Paris: 25 miles south Drive time: 45-60 minutes Train time: 35 minutes from Gare d’Austerlitz, followed by a five-minute taxi ride

After making their mark on the Parisian dining scene in the early days of the bistronomy boom at Au Passage, Yard, and Bones (now called Jones), the Australian chefs James Henry and Shaun Kelly left the capital at their peak. Since 2017, the friends have lived in the small French village of Saint-Vrain, south of Paris, where they took five years to build a restaurant, guesthouse, and regenerative farm on the grounds of the Château de Saint-Vrain, a 19th-century private estate. With the support of Antoine de Mortemart, the duo’s business partner (whose family has owned the estate for two centuries), they gut renovated the property, planted an orchard, and revived the potager in a walled garden, where it had remained dormant for 60 years. Even before construction was completed, the chefs were supplying fruits and vegetables to some of Paris’s top restaurants, such as Mokonuts and Septime.

Once they finally opened in summer 2022, the grounds proved to be just as big of a draw as the restaurant, with a hundred varieties of heirloom fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, and fruit trees to fawn over. Guests are encouraged to stroll the grounds, and perhaps follow with an aperitif by the fireplace in the lounge before dinner. Then it’s on to a lengthy meal while watching Henry and his team in an open kitchen. Those who experienced his cooking at Bones will find the same precise and simple style, but with even greater sophistication.

Lunch and dinner typically begin with an amuse-bouche of seasonal barbajuans, fritters common to the Riviera that are typically filled with ricotta and leafy vegetables like Swiss chard. Alongside a rainbow of vegetables, the rest of the seasonal menu might include line-caught fish, a pork chop from the chefs’ 26-month-old forest-raised pig, or a selection of artisanal cheeses and hearty sourdough bread baked by Lori Oyamada, formerly of Tartine and Mirabelle Bakery. Depending on the day, dessert might be héliantis ice cream drizzled with chestnut cream, or a rustic fruit tart.

For guests staying over, there are 11 rooms kitted out with antique furnishings, exposed wood beams, and dusty pink bed linens. A leisurely breakfast (included for guests) includes Oyamada’s pastries, fruit from the garden, and farm-fresh eggs. Stop into the Doyenné boutique to pick up produce from the potager, wines, condiments, and fresh bread for the road.

Location: Fontainebleau Distance from Paris: 40 miles south Drive time: 60-90 minutes Train time: 40 minutes from Gare de Lyon, followed by a 10-minute taxi ride

Those interested in visiting a royal chateau that isn’t Versailles typically head to the Château de Fontainebleau, a quick jaunt by car or train southeast of Paris. For seven centuries, French monarchs continuously inhabited the hunting residence, now a UNESCO World Heritage site on more than 320 acres. Visitors can easily spend a full day exploring the chateau’s gardens, not to mention the Fôret de Fontainebleau surrounding the town, a world-renowned destination for bouldering and hiking. When it’s time to eat, Michelin-starred L’Axel is a local standout just five minutes from the chateau. Japanese chef Kunihisa Goto and his wife Vanessa emphasize ingredient-driven contemporary cooking anchored in classic French technique. Kunihisa nods to his heritage throughout the meal: Shiso leaves envelop the ris de veau; wagyu, ginger, and vegetables combine for a twist on pot-au-feu; and one of his signature dishes, the Oeuf Translucide à 65, a translucent egg prepared in the traditional onsen tamago style, is served in an emulsion that changes seasonally.

Domaine les Bruyères

Location: Vallée de Chevreuse Distance from Paris: 34 miles west Drive time: 45 minutes Train time: 35 minutes from Montparnasse station, then a shuttle or taxi (can be arranged with the restaurant)

Amid the horse stables that run alongside the Rambouillet forest, California-born locavore chef Cybèle Idelot and her sommelier husband Frank laid down roots for their farm-to-table restaurant, called Ruche, and five-room inn. The couple was initially looking for land to set up a permaculture produce garden to supply La Table de Cybèle, the chef’s modern bistro in Boulogne-Billancourt, west of Paris. When they came across this former post house from 1850, surrounded by century-old rhododendrons, apple and cherry trees, and a 98-foot stone pond on 3.5 acres, they knew there was a more ambitious project to pursue.

The garden, greenhouse, and a bakehouse set up in a former barn fulfill most of the chef’s needs for bright dishes. You might find guinea fowl with wild asparagus, geranium, and lacto-fermented kumquat; rainbow carrots with pursha lime gremolata, hazelnuts, fresh turmeric, and yogurt; and a host of homemade sourdough breads and baked goods. For everything else, the couple sources within several kilometers of the property. Meat comes from Eric Sanceau in Auffargis, the Ferme du Grand Frêne in Broué, or the Bergerie Nationale de Rambouillet, while a collective of small-scale producers provide line-caught fish from Île d’Yeu and Brittany.

You could go for the lunchtime three- or five-course tasting menus (offered Friday through Sunday), but for the most special experience, book dinner and a night in one of the five, rustic-chic guest rooms located above the dining room. An overnight stay means you can take full advantage of Frank Idelot’s excellent natural and biodynamic wine selection and wake up to the smell of fresh bread and pastries at breakfast.

Lounge chairs at Domaine les Bruyères.

Distance from Paris: 140 miles north Train time: 1 hour from Gare du Nord

The capital of the northern Hauts-de-France region, this historic merchant city and university town on the Belgian border is a draw for its Flemish architecture, dynamic cultural scene, and rising culinary cred. Given Lille’s proximity to Paris on the TGV train, it’s entirely possible to visit Lille for a day and feel completely transported.

If anyone can be credited with elevating the reputation of Flemish cuisine beyond moules-frites, Maroilles cheese, and beer, it’s Florent Ladeyn, the chef-owner of several restaurants in and around Lille, including the Michelin-starred l’Auberge du Vert Mont. The self-taught chef was a finalist on Top Chef France in 2013 before opening his modern Flemish canteen Bloempot (“Flower Pot”) the same year.

The restaurant occupies a converted carpenter’s workshop in Vieux-Lille that feels somewhere between a loft and a beer garden, with metallic beams, brick, and rustic wood floors and tabletops. The ambiance may be casual but there is serious technique on the plate. Dishes might include pork shoulder yakitori; creamy pollack rillettes with bread chips, endive leaves, and jus mousse; mackerel atop a bed of celery and chervil in a buttermilk and leek-oil sauce; and buckwheat-salted caramel cream puffs for dessert.

The chef spotlights ingredients sourced exclusively within a 30-mile radius, so you won’t find olive oil, chocolate, or citrus. Ladeyn serves chicory in place of coffee (another out-of-range product), including a chicory Irish coffee at the end of the meal, served with a generous mix of juniper, brown sugar, and whipped cream.

For another lens on Flemish cooking, Ladeyn also runs Bierbuik in the historic city center. The no-reservations pub on the ground floor serves street-food classics like fries in a Maroilles cheese sauce, marinated meats baked in a wood-fire oven, and twists on the Flamiche (a Flemish leek tart), while upstairs, locavore bistro dishes go for less than 30 euros.

Grand Scène

“Eat, drink, and be merry” is the abiding conceit behind this sprawling locavore street-food hall in the center of Lille. Ten restaurants, two bars, and a coffee shop fill the 17,000-square-foot space, which is meant to serve as a springboard for young local chefs looking to open their own restaurants. At any given time, you’ll find groups of friends, families, and coworkers dining elbow to elbow at communal tables. Depending on the evening, you might also find a DJ, a rugby match playing on a massive screen, or a food festival. Don’t miss Ataya for Syrian recipes with northern French twists, like falafaluche (falafel served in a regional bread called faluche) and ch’tiwarma (shawarma with Maroilles cheese).

A quartet of dishes at Grand Scène.

Sweets are core to the Lillois experience and there’s perhaps no better place to taste that heritage than Méert, the 250-year-old pastry shop and tea salon with 18th-, 19th-, and 20th-century architecture in the historic center. Whether you stay for a full tea time or pick up confections to go, pay particular attention to the shop’s signatures: flattened gaufres — waffles filled with sugar and Madagascan vanilla — and the regional claim to fame, the merveilleux, an airy, layered mound of meringue coated with sweet whipped cream and a host of coatings like chocolate flakes and caramelized hazelnuts. (For more innovative pastries and modernized classics, visit L’Ogre de Carrouselberg , a five-minute walk away.)

In the past several years, as Parisians have ditched the city and headed for greener pastures, much of the exodus has been directed toward Le Perche, a bucolic area and regional park in lower Normandy. It’s not too far from the capital but not too close, making the picturesque rolling hills, artisanal design scene, and country-chic restaurants a perfect refuge for urbanites — and well-respected Parisian chefs.

Location: Rémalard Distance from Paris: 93 miles west Drive time: 2 hours

Several years before Le Perche became a coveted country escape for Parisians, Septime chefs Bertrand Grébaut and Théo Pourriat took over this rustic 17th-century farmhouse property on nearly 20 acres of land. Eight minimalist guest rooms, with simple white bed linens, exposed wooden beams, and vintage furnishings, are spread out across several stone buildings. Staying the night grants guests priority access to dinner in the farm-to-table restaurant.

The menu, executed by a kitchen crew who worked with Grébaut and Pourriat in Paris, is dictated by the garden, seasons, and simple pleasures. The team only works with items sourced from regional producers and farmers markets (so no olive oil or citrus), which naturally results in a rustic menu where fruits, vegetables, and herbs have a starring role. Dine on buttermilk-grilled leeks; crisp pickled vegetables; fresh goat cheese; leg of lamb roasted on the bone and served with jus; house-made pommeau foie gras, plated with roasted shallots puree and crunchy granola; seasonal fruit tarts; and vanilla grass cream puffs that have become such a hit that the chefs added them to their bakery menu at Tâpisserie in Paris.

Oiseau Oiseau

Location: Préaux-du-Perche Distance from Paris: 93 miles west Drive time: 2 hours

Chef Sven Chartier, a disciple of Alain Passard, made headlines when he closed his Michelin-starred Saturne in 2019 and made a beeline for the Perche countryside in late 2020. His casual neo-bistrot , Oiseau Oiseau , opened in October 2021 in the pindrop-quiet town of Préaux-du-Perche with a short seasonal menu. The dining room is usually full of locals, though you’ll find a significant number of Parisians who make the drive for lunch on the weekend.

Chartier runs the operation, open Thursday through Sunday, with his wife Marianne and his older brother Nils, who oversees the natural wine list (some bottles are also available in the shop at the back of the restaurant). While the food isn’t reflective of the kind of creativity the chef flexed at Saturne, his mastery of seasoning and textures carries over to comforting, perfectly executed dishes like farm-raised grilled chicken with crunchy vegetables, vegetable pie enveloped in puff pastry, yuzu kosho pâté en crôute with pistachios and almonds, hay-smoked duck filet, and a wonderfully indulgent chocolate tart with buckwheat ice cream and crunchy hemp praline.

La Planque en Perche

Location: Bellou-le-Trichard Distance from Paris: 111 miles west Drive time: 2.5 hours

The most recent, large-scale opening in the area, this restaurant and inn is set far off the road in a centuries-old farmhouse and barn surrounded by 740 acres of fields and farmland dotted with horses. Owners Julie and Stéphane Lehembre spent two years rehabilitating the abandoned property with solar panels and all-natural materials and insulation to create an eco-hideout for restorative weekend escapes. A year after opening, the couple has three spacious guest rooms, each outfitted with love seats facing panoramic windows for unobstructed views of the landscape. More rooms are on the way, as is a wellness space down the road.

On Friday and Saturday nights, the house is typically packed for dinner service, cooked entirely by Julie, who trained at Alain Ducasse’s cooking school. Guests can kick off the evening with an aperitif by the fire before digging into the rotating menu that emphasizes seasonal, local produce, some sourced from the property’s growing garden. A winter evening might bring squash and roasted carrot soup, roasted leeks mimosa, and beef confit with sweet potatoes. Come summer, meals and mingling move outdoors for one big house party under the stars.

Lindsey Tramuta is a Paris-based writer and the author of The New Paris and The New Parisienne: The Women & Ideas Shaping Paris .

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Home > 11 Best Day Trips from Paris

11 Best Day Trips from Paris

Easy day trips from paris.

Paris is an incredible destination with many fun things to see and do . But if you have any more than three days in Paris, take the opportunity to get out of the city and see more of France as there are some great day trips from Paris.

The list of beautiful day trips outside Paris is very long. However, if you visit Paris for the first time, we suggest sticking to the top day trips from Paris: there must be a reason to be that popular!

We won’t deny that popularity means more people, but it also means better connections with public transportation for travelers. Also, the best day trips from Paris are proposed by all the tour operators, which means more competitive prices if you decide to book a day tour.

Here’s the definitive list of the best Paris day trips featuring historic cities, seaside towns, world heritage wonders, and adventures in the great French countryside.

Paris Day Trips – Best Way to Visit

A. Day Trips from Paris By Train

Most of the best day trips from Paris are easy to plan by train. The French rail network links all the major towns and cities while also linking up many small towns in rural France. If you know a few simple tips about using trains in France , then it’s an absolute breeze.

Generally, trains are on time, comfortable, relatively cheap, and definitely more eco-friendly than traveling by car.

TIP: Do you have more time available? Check out the best weekend getaways from Paris by train

B. With a Guided Tour

Paris day tours are not the cheapest option. Still, a guided tour is definitely the most effective and comfortable way to enjoy a one-day trip from Paris, especially if the distances are long or there are no direct train connections.

The day tours from Paris proposed below are small group tours that include skip-the-line tickets and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, making the place or attraction even more enjoyable.

Forget about planning, entrance tickets, or train schedules; Book one of these Paris day tours, hop on a coach or minibus and get the most out of your Paris day trip!

THESE ARE THE BEST DAY TOURS FROM PARIS

TIP: Check what’s in our backpack for exploring the surroundings of Paris

Map of Best Day Trips out of Paris

Click here to view this map of the best day trips from Paris on Google

Best Day Trips from Paris by Train or Car

Below is the list of the best Paris day trips by train or car, in no particular order, and all the information and top tips to plan a self-guided visit.

If you are looking for a bit of comfort, we also list the best guided tours covering these destinations and have added links to our favorite trusty providers for your convenience.

1. Day Trip from Paris to Versailles

Versailles is the most popular 1-day trip from Paris, and for a reason! The Château de Versailles is one of the world’s biggest and most beautiful palaces, with spectacular rooms and halls. It was home to King Louis XIV and his court and the witness to important events like the signing of the Treaty of Versailles (June 28, 1919), which marked the end of the First World War.

The Gardens of Versailles are as amazing as the Château itself. They are beautifully decorated with fountains, water games, and grooves. From April to October, you can enjoy the shows around the Fountains of Versailles and a fireworks show on the weekends. The impressive 5.57 km wide Grand Canal is also the ideal place for a stroll or a picnic lunch by the water.

Self-Guided Day Trip to Versailles

• Quick guide to Versailles
• Transportation to Versailles
• Château de Versailles skip-the-line tips
• Book your Versailles skip-the-line tickets in advance

Best Day Tours from Paris to Versailles

• Versailles full day, small group tour with an expert guide
• Versailles half-day, private tour with an expert guide

2. Paris Day Trip to Monet’s Garden in Giverny

In the region of Normandy, Giverny is another of the most popular day trips outside Paris. Giverny is where Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked from 1883 until he died in 1926. Every year, thousands of visitors travel to Giverny to visit Monet’s Garden and admire the water lily pond that inspired his paintings.

Giverny is the best day trip from Paris to enjoy the French countryside. Apart from Monet’s House, Giverny has a main street with cute shops, cafés, and an Impressionist Museum.

Self-Guided Day Trip to Giverny

• Quick Guide to Giverny and Monet’s Garden
• Buy your train tickets to Vernon-Giverny train station
• Shuttle bus from Vernon-Giverny train station to Monet’s Garden

Best Day Tours from Paris to Giverny 

• Giverny half-day, small-group tour with an expert guide
• Monet’s Garden bike tour from Paris

3. Day Trip from Paris to Mont St. Michel

With spectacular Gothic architecture, rich history, and an incredible setting, the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel is one of the best day trips from Paris.

Mont Saint-Michel is located on a rocky island about one kilometer off the coast of Normandy. The area is known for its high tides, making the Abbey inaccessible for some hours.

The Abbey dedicated to Saint-Michel became a renowned center of pilgrimage and learning, attracting some of Europe’s greatest minds and manuscript illuminators. Today, this stunning site is listed as Unesco World Heritage, and it is one of the most visited places in France.

Self-Guided Trip to Mont Saint-Michel

• Quick Guide to Mont Saint-Michel from Paris
• Buy your train tickets to Mont Saint-Michel
• Buy your Mont Saint-Michel skip-the-line tickets in advance

Best Day Tours from Paris to Mont St. Michel

• Mont St Michel full-day, small group tour with an expert guide

4. Day Trip from Paris to Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is one of the top family day trips out of Paris. Escape the hassle of the city and join Mickey Mouse & Co. for a wonderful day in the magical world of Disney.

In Disneyland Paris, there are two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park . Both parks have many child-friendly rides on offer, but adults without kids will also have lots of fun thanks to Disney’s full-on thrill rides for adults.

Self-Guided Day Trip to Disneyland Paris

• Quick Guide to Disneyland Paris
• Disneyland Paris Crowd Calendar
• Transportation to Disneyland Paris
• Buy your Disneyland Paris tickets in advance
• Best Disneyland Paris rides

Best Day Tours from Paris to Disneyland Paris

There are no guided tours to Disneyland Paris from Paris. However, booking platforms like Get Your Guide or Viator offer interesting packs of tickets + transportation, which save you money and time.

• Disneyland tickets for 1 or 2 parks + transportation by shuttle bus

5. Paris Day Trip to Loire Valley Castles

The Loire Valley is dotted with magnificent Rennaissance castles, known as Châteaux de la Loire or Loire Castles. Home to French Kings and nobles, the best Loire Valley castles are great architectural achievements, usually surrounded by fabulous French-style gardens.

The most famous Loire Valley Castles, like Blois , Amboise , or Chambord, are relatively easy to reach by public transportation. Château de Chenonceau is also possible, but the transportation options are less convenient. If you decide to visit the Loire Castles by public transport on a one-day trip from Paris, you will only have time for one or two castles maximum.

PARIS TO LOIRE VALLEY BY TRAIN:

Amboise: There’s no direct train Paris-Amboise so you will have to change trains somewhere. Take a train from Paris Montparnasse to Amboise via Saint Pierre-des-Corps train station (Tours). Alternatively, take a train from Paris Gare d’Austerlitz to Amboise via Orleans (2 hrs ride). If you choose Amboise for your day trip from Paris, the Leonardo Da Vinci Loire Valley Pass explores three sites (Château de Chambord, Château d’Amboise, and Clos Lucé) and saves you money.

Blois: Take a train from Paris Gare d’Austerlitz to Blois (1hr 30min). Depending on the train you take, there’s a change in Orléans (2 hrs).

Chambord: Take a train to Blois train station. There, a shuttle bus that takes you to Chambord in 25 minutes.

Chenonceau: Take a train to Saint Pierre-des-Corps train station (Tours). From Tours, take a second train to Chenonceau (2hrs 10 min).

Self-Guided Day Trip to the Loire Castles

Renting a car to explore the Loire Valley on a day trip can be a good idea, especially if you want to visit other than the three top Loire Valley Castles.

• Quick Guide to the Loire Valley from Paris
• Buy your train tickets to Amboise – Loire Valley
• Buy your train tickets to Blois – Loire Valley
• Buy your train tickets to Tours – Loire Valley
• Rent a car to explore the Loire Valley

Below we list the Loire Castles you will need advance tickets for and have added links to our favorite trusty providers for your convenience.

• Château de Chambord
• Château de Blois
• Château d’Amboise
• Château du Clos de Lucé (in Amboise)
• Château d’Azay-le-Rideau
• Château de Villandry
• Château de Chenonceau
• Château de Chaumont sur Loire

Best Day Tours from Paris to the Loire Castles

• Small-group Tour Loire Castles (Chenonceau, Amboise, Chambord)

6. Paris Day Trip to Normandy’s D-DAY Landing Beaches

In the region of Normandy, the D-day landing beaches is one of the most memorable day trips from Paris. Indeed, this was the definitive battle that led to the victory of the Allies in WW2.

Visit Caen’s Memorial Museum to learn more about D-Day and the Second World War in general before heading to the main beaches where the Americans, Canadians, and British landed. These places are dotted with military cemeteries, memorials, and smaller museums, all well worth a stop.

Self-Guided Day Trip to the Normandy Landing Beaches

We recommend renting a car to optimize your transportation times and to stop wherever you want. Below we list the museums you will need advance tickets for and have added links to our favorite trusty providers for your convenience.

• Rent your car to explore the D-Day Landing Beaches
• Caen’s Memorial Museum
• Arromanches 360 cinema
• Airborne Museum (Sainte-Mère-Église)

Best Day Tours from Paris to the D-Day Landing Beaches

• D-Day Battlefields & Landing Beaches, small group tour with an expert guide
• Small Group Canadian D-day Juno beach with an expert guide

7. Day Trip from Paris to Champagne Wine Region

If you are looking for wine day trips from Paris, the Champagne region is a lovely area to explore.

Visit Épernay , the capital of the champagne wine, and the cute small town of Hautvillers nearby. In Hautvilliers Abbey, the monk Dom Perignon developed  the method of champagnisation of wine, and you can visit his tomb.

Visit Reims , the region’s capital, for some city sightseeing and tastings.

TIP: If you plan to bring a few bottles home, make sure you  pack your wine properly , so it arrives safely home!

Self-Guided Day Trip to Champagne

• Quick Guide to Champagne from Paris
• Quick Guide to Reims
• Buy your train tickets to Reims
• Buy your train tickets to Epernay

Best Day Tours from Paris to Champagne Wine Region

• Full-day Champagne tour from Paris – Moët-Chandon, Dom Pérignon
• Epernay: Moët-Chandon and 2 big houses in a day
• Reims & champagne tasting full-day tour

8. Paris Day Trip to Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau is considered the ‘true home of French Kings ‘, and it is one of the most beautiful castles in France .

However, Fontainebleau is a lovely town with much more than the château. There’s also a beautiful forest great for hiking or climbing and some pretty small towns around.

Trains to Fontainebleau Avon leave from Paris Gare de Lyon (39 min, hourly). There’s no need to book train tickets in advance for Fontainebleau.

Walkers will find some hiking trails not far from the train station, while sightseers will take the shuttle bus to reach the Château. The bus stop is just outside the train station.

In Fontainebleau, it is possible to fly over the Château and the forest on a hot air balloon. This is a wonderful experience that we always recommend to everyone. The hot air balloon tours depart from the entrance of the Château, and you can read about our experience here .

Self-Guided Day Trip to Fontainebleau

• Quick Guide to Fontainebleau
• Buy your train tickets directly at Gare de Lyon
• Buy your Fontainebleau skip-the-line tickets in advance

Best Day Tours from Paris to Fontainebleau

The most popular tours to Fontainebleau combine the Château de Fontainebleau and the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte on a full-day trip. Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is another beautiful castle near Paris worth visiting.

• Full-day tour Château de Fontainebleau & Château Vaux-le-Vicomte

9. Day Drip from Paris to Provins

Provins is one of the easy day trips from Paris by train. Provins is a picturesque medieval town located 90 km southeast of Paris. In Medieval times, Provins was famous for its fairs that attracted merchants from all over Europe.

This Paris one-day trip is like a step back in time! Provins boasts beautiful and well-preserved medieval architecture, part of the ramparts that protected the city, and a network of underground tunnels built by the merchants to store the goods. Provins Tourisme organizes guided tours to visit these galleries, and this is something unique you won’t want to miss.

Self-Guided Day Trip to Provins

• Quick Guide to Provins
• Buy your train tickets directly at Gare de l’Est

10. Paris Day Trip to Chantilly

Chantilly is another of the best day trips from Paris by train. Chantilly is a pretty town 38 km north of Paris, well-known for its prestigious galop race, Prix de Diane Longines , and the Domaine de Chantilly.

The Domaine de Chantilly includes the Château de Chantilly, surrounded by magnificent gardens, and the Great Stables, with the Horse Museum inside. There are Chantilly combo tickets for the Château, the Great Stables, and the Equestrian show, but you can also go for a stroll around the gardens only.

The day trip from Paris to Chantilly by train is straightforward and an excellent alternative to more popular and crowded châteaux like Versailles or Fontainebleau.

Self-Guided Day Trip to Chantilly

• Quick Guide to Chantilly
• Buy your train tickets to Chantilly
• Buy your Chantilly skip-the-line tickets in advance

11. Day Trip from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise

Auvers-sur-Oise is one of the loveliest small towns near Paris . Auvers is mainly known for being Van Gogh’s last home. The Dutch painter spent the last two months of his life in Auvers, where he painted 70 works.

This Paris day trip is perfect for people willing to explore the French countryside. Travel to Auvers to visit the famous Church at Auvers , Van Gogh’s tomb, and the room where he died. There are also two trails that connect several views that appear in some paintings by Van Gogh and the Impressionists. On each exact spot, there’s a plaque with a canvas reproduction so you can compare the actual view to its artistic representation.

Self-Guided Day Trip to Auvers-sur-Oise

• Quick Guide to Auvers-sur-Oise
• Buy your train tickets directly at Gare du Nord (Transilien H)

Best Day Tours to Auvers-sur-Oise

• Hiking adventure following Van Gogh’s steps guided tour
• Auvers-sur-Oise & Monet’s Garden full-day guided tour

So there you have it, our selection of the best day trips from Paris by train and by car. Which Paris day trips would you like to take during your next holiday to Paris?

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Forbes Travel Guide Stories

4 Luxurious Countryside Escapes From Paris By Correspondent Lane Nieset

January 30, 2020

Every season in Paris has its charm, and while winter sparkles with twinkling lights lining the city’s iconic boulevards, there are only so many cafés and museums you can steal away to when the weather takes a turn for the worse. After spending a few days in the French capital, break up your visit with a quick jaunt to one of the postcard-worthy towns scattered across the countryside.

From vineyard visits to horseback riding to museums as impressive as the Louvre, here are four countryside escapes worth taking from Paris.

One of the easiest — and most popular — day trips from the city is the Palace of Versailles , the former royal residence just an hour train ride from the Eiffel Tower that draws close to 10 million visitors per year to its nearly 2,000-acre grounds.

One hundred of the palace’s rooms have been preserved in time, so you can get a sense of how French royalty once lived. Many others have been converted into a museum with more than 60,000 pieces of art spanning five centuries of French history.

At the edge of the property lies Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace , an opulent hotel where the Treaty of Versailles was prepared over a century ago before it was signed at the palace to officially end World War I.

The 199-room property features views of the palace’s park, as well as acclaimed cuisine at Gordon Ramsay au Trianon, an intimate, 10-table dining room modeled after the celebrity chef’s London flagship.

A 45-minute, high-speed train ride away from Paris is Reims, the unofficial capital of this sparkling-wine-producing region, whose UNESCO-listed Notre-Dame Cathedral served as the longtime coronation spot for French kings.

Equally as splendid, thousands of cathedral-like chalk quarries (or crayères ) form a labyrinth of cellars under the city. Take a tour of the deepest in the region — and the only one classified as a national monument — at one of the world’s oldest champagne houses, Ruinart .

While you’re in town, reserve a table for dinner at Franco-Japanese hot spot Racine and end your evening lingering over nightcaps (or more champagne) at 19th-century wine magnate Louise Pommery’s former château, Domaine Les Crayères .

After all that sparkling wine, opt for a detox at Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa , a hideaway that debuted in 2018 and is home to a 16,000-square-foot spa with treatments by lauded French skincare brand Biologique Recherche. Spend the night at the 49-room contemporary beauty overlooking the vine-covered hills of Épernay.

With an average of 14 trains a day from Paris (the quickest being one hour and 45 minutes), there are few reasons not to visit this picturesque village in northeastern France. Get your bearings soaking up Strasbourg’s 20 centuries of history on a boat tour along the Rhine past Louis XIV-era fortifications and the pastel-colored, half-timbered homes in the Petite France quarter, where fishermen, millers and tanners lived and worked in the 16th and 17th centuries.

Strasbourg sits near the start of the Alsace Wine Route , which stretches nearly 106 miles and winds through 70 winemaking villages. One winery worth stopping at is ninth-generation-run Maison Pierre Sparr in the Haut-Rhin, which models its winemaking after traditions that started during the reign of King Louis XIV.

Call it a night at Les Haras , a 55-room hotel in Strasbourg housed in 18th-century former royal stables with a brasserie helmed by chef Marc Haeberlin, the same creative force behind highly acclaimed L’Auberge de l’Ill near Colmar.

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is famous for two reasons: wine and châteaus. There are two castles that are must-visits: Château de Chambord (the valley’s largest) and Château du Clos-Lucé, a former residence of Leonardo da Vinci.

You can sleep like French royalty in the newly opened Hotel Château du Grand-Lucé , an elegant retreat built by a baron in the 1760s. A 55-minute train ride from Paris, the 45,000-square-foot castle features just 17 rooms and suites, so you’ll feel like you’ve got the whole place — and its 80 acres of Versailles-like gardens — to yourself.

Attentive staff can help you make the most of your stay by arranging everything from horseback-riding treks through the maze-like gardens to picnics in the forest, packed in baskets with wine from the valley and baguettes from the village bakery.

If you’re feeling decadent, opt for a three-course, seasonally inspired dinner in the hotel’s formal dining room, a soft pink-coated space draped in chandeliers, candelabras and centuries-old portraits hanging in gilded frames along the wall.

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5 Best Day Trips from Paris

By Mary Winston Nicklin and Lindsey Tramuta

There's enough culture in Paris—be it food, drink, art, history, dance, music, or shopping—to entertain for a lifetime. Believe it or not, though, that range of experiences increases ten-fold if you venture beyond the city borders. These are the day trips (or weekend getaways, or short overnights) that are worth your limited time, even as a visitor. Within, find our guide on where to go, what to see, what to eat, and what to do in lovely Versailles, Fontainebleau, Reims, Chantilly, and Lille. These are the best day trips from Paris, according to Condé Nast Traveler.

Click the link to read our complete Paris guide .

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Versailles is one of the most common trips to pair with a visit to Paris for reasons that are apparent: the Palace of Versailles is a marvel and one of France's most popular tourist destinations, and it's barely 30 minutes away by car. The crowds can get gnarly, but it's well worth it to experience a slice of history so vividly. Expand beyond the court of Louis XIV during your trip, and nab at table at some of the modern restaurants setting the standard for food in the city. 

Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace Arrow

Just at the edge of the Chateau de Versailles gardens, the Trianon Palace takes its inspiration from the Grand Trianon, the pink-marble hideaway built by Louis XIV as an escape from confining courtly life. Rooms are spacious with plush, contemporary furnishings, but request one facing the garden or park in the historic hotel, and not the newer annex. Rooms come with Nespresso machines, Salvatore Ferragamo bath products, and mosaic-tiled marble bathrooms with heated floors. Some have marble fireplaces. You can’t get much closer to sleeping at the Chateau de Versailles than an overnight at the Trianon Palace.

Ore - Ducasse au Château de Versailles Arrow

The best part about dining here is that the experience is all Alain Ducasse in style and service, without the steep prices. The menu at Ore is a combination of gussied-up snacks like croque-monsieur, and thoughtful market-fresh dishes like spelt and wild mushroom salad, or steamed turbot with truffled hollandaise sauce, all priced to fit a range of wallets. Signature desserts, such as “Les Versaillaises,” offer lightened updates on French classics. Foreigners are likely to come here only if they're already planning to tour the Château—but it merits a special visit on its own. It's grand, as it should be, but accessible.

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At Le Pincemin, the artistic, inventive menu changes often based on the chef's whims, but you're likely to find dishes that meld land and sea; say, beef tartare with oysters, salicornes, and confit cucumbers, served in a giant Limoges porcelain shell. The signature—which must be ordered in advance—is the blue Breton lobster, flambeed and served with vegetables glazed in lobster bisque. The fixed lunch menu costs 35 euros (about $38); dinners have a five-course tasting for 65 euros (about $70).

Matt Ortile

Scott Laird

Siobhan Reid

Meaghan Kenny

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La Mangette is a postage stamp-sized canteen close to the Palace of Versailles. The daily menu is scrawled on a blackboard with a handful of simple options featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the surrounding Ile de France region. An added bonus? It’s mostly organic. La Mangette is also a great option for take-out. There’s a refrigerated display case by the door where you can pick up salads and such—perfect for picnics in the palace gardens. It's a perfect spot for a healthy lunch or to provision a picnic to enjoy in the palace gardens.

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This Michelin-starred restaurant is steps away from the Palace of Versailles, but worlds away from the crowds. The setting is sublime; the Cour des Senteurs (“the courtyard of fragrances”) was restored a few years ago and is now a tranquil, cobbled courtyard lined with fashionable shops (like one devoted to Toile de Jouy fabrics), a tea room, and La Table du 11. Young chef Jean-Baptiste Lavergne Morazzani (he’s not even 30 years old) trained at top addresses, including the Trianon Palace, Cobéa, and Le Meurice (under super-chef Yannick Alléno) before striking out on his own. Now he’s branched out with a bistro and wine shop in addition to this gourmet address—a veritable gastronomic empire in Versailles, with a mission of promoting sustainability. Lavergne Morazzani is all about line-caught fish and organic vegetables sourced from his own vegetable garden in Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche. 

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This mind-blowing historic marvel is one of France's most opulent jewels, and is crucial to understanding the country's history and a very specific moment of leadership. A 17th century Château and estate that spans over 800 hectares (1,977 acres), The Sun King's grand creation is open for visits year-round and includes bedrooms, the King's state apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and some 2,300 rooms in total. Annual summer exhibitions highlight the works of prominent contemporary artists like Jeff Koons, Anish Kapoor, and Olafur Eliasson, whose art is displayed in the sprawling gardens. The old and new come together beautifully, a nod to its initial mission to support artistic creations.

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This spot inside the Trianon Palace provides a beautiful backdrop for afternoon tea. It is served in The Gallery, the long vestibule that serves as the main artery of the hotel. Think soaring columns, gold ceiling, and marble floors in black and white tiles. Crystal chandeliers hang above velvet sofas and high-backed green leather armchairs. You have choices as to how indulgent you want your tea service to be, but note the chariot de pâtisseries (pastry trolley) is available on Saturdays and Sundays only. When it comes to the tea itself, the selection may include classics like Darjeeling, Earl Grey, Oolong, and Tarry Lapsang, but you want the Marie Antoinette NINA’S: Ceylon tea scented with roses and apples pulled from the Potager du Roi (the King's Kitchen Garden) in Versailles.

FONTAINEBLEAU

Little more than 40 miles from Paris and accessible by train, Fontainebleau is a cinch of a day trip. The main sight to see is the Château de Fontainebleau, but you'll want to stay a while to savor the food and drink at places like the acclaimed L'Axel. It's also a perfect jaunt for the outdoorsy, too, with ample opportunities for bouldering and climbing in the plucked-from-a-fairy-tale forest that surrounds the town and has inspired artists for centuries.

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The owners refer to the Hotel de Londres (“Hotel London”) as a “hotel de charme,” and the minute you step inside you see why, with its toile de Jouy wallpaper, comfy armchairs, and wall-size painting depicting an English hunting scene. Three generations of the Famille Colombier have tended to this cozy three-star hotel, which is a historic registered landmark dating from 1850. Best of all: You can’t get much closer to the Chateau de Fontainebleau. From the light-filled breakfast room, you can watch the morning light glint on Napoleon’s gilded gate while sipping a café crème and munching on a croissant.

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La Demeure du Parc is like the private home of a stylish connoisseur, with a sleek and contemporary design, and right next to the Chateau de Fontainebleau gardens. The interiors still have historic touches, like the hefty timber beams in the restaurant. Back in the Chateau de Fontainebleau’s heyday, this mansion served as an annex for Louis XIV’s guests. Today, it's a boutique hotel with black and white tiled floors alongside natural wood parquet, covetable designer chairs in a rich royal blue, and a glass-roofed atrium flooding the lower level with light.

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The forest of Fontainebleau inspired 19th-century painters in the Barbizon School, the art movement anchored in Realism that was named for the village at the forest’s doorstep. Oozing charm, the village is still an inspiration to present-day artists—you'll see plenty of galleries lining the cobblestone streets. Take a stroll down the main road to see the Théodore Rousseau house and Jean-François Millet’s art studio. The Auberge Ganne, the inn that hosted many of the period painters, has been converted into a small museum (Musée des Peintres de Barbizon).

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In the world of haute pâtisserie, there are a few names enshrined in the hall of fame. Frédéric Cassel is one of them. Early in his career, he worked alongside his friend Pierre Hermé at Fauchon, and now has international stores in Kyoto, Tokyo , Berlin , and Casablanca. Cassel was World Pastry Champion in 2013 and presided over the prestigious Relais Desserts association from 2003–2018. Reflecting the seasons, his collection changes every six months. Showstoppers in the display case may include the Jivara, a brownie-bottomed dome with layers of vanilla crème brûlée and chocolate mousse; and the Tarte Jardin des Hesperides, a shortbread tart topped with bergamot-flavored orange and grapefruit wedges.

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This restaurant inside La Demeure du Parc isn’t just a hotel restaurant but a stylish spot for a good meal. A fashionable crowd takes its time to linger over the food, savoring amuse-bouches and multiple courses. Chef Christophe Borniche frequently changes his menu based on what’s fresh and seasonal at the market. Dishes might include the oeuf parfait to start—served with truffles and spring shoots atop a comté-infused potato purée—and, for the main course, aged beef cooked in a Josper charcoal oven. Tip: Order the mandarin and cinnamon soufflé at the beginning of your meal as it takes time to prepare.

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Inside a townhouse, just a few minutes’ walk from the Fontainebleau chateau, is the best table in town. Japanese chef Kunihisa Goto opened L’Axel with his wife Vanessa in 2012 and won a Michelin star shortly after. The food is dizzyingly good. To start, choose the “oeuf translucide” with green asparagus and parmesan emulsion. (If you’re lucky, there might even be an amuse-bouche of foie gras flan and oyster foam.) Taste flavors like yuzu and salty salicornes in the signature fish dish: a turbot prepared in the meunière fashion with beurre blanc. Don’t miss the Wagyu beef prepared with onions, ginger, and vegetables as a riff on a classic “pot au feu.” The wine list features some excellent bottles from Burgundy, thanks to the chef's contacts there.

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It's a UNESCO World Heritage site , but still perhaps one of the most underrated landmarks in France. For one thing, it was inhabited by French royalty continuously for seven centuries. Napoleon preferred it to any other residence, calling it “the true home of kings.” It's also the most furnished chateau in the country and the decor is something to see (think Renaissance frescoes, precious porcelain, exceptional furniture through the Second Empire). No wonder so many art history students come here to study the decorative arts. There are newly renovated spaces that are only available on special guided tours: the Imperial Theatre, commissioned by Napoleon III, Marie-Antoinette’s Turkish Boudoir, Napoleon III’s study, and Eugenie’s Lacquer Room. The chateau is close enough to Paris —less than an hour southeast by train—but it feels like deep countryside. Allow time for a stroll in the sprawling gardens and along the canal designed by architect André Le Nôtre.

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Fontainebleau's famous forest is one of the largest in France, encompassing 50,000 acres. The chateau , in all its stupefying glory, wouldn’t exist without the Forest of Fontainebleau. This was the playground of Renaissance king François I, who spent so much time on the royal hunting grounds that he decided to expand the existing medieval castle into a royal chateau. (Why camp out in the Loire Valley when you have access to game-packed forest much closer to Paris?) Stags and wild boar still roam the woods—you’ll notice warning signs on the road. In the 19th century, the forest starred on the canvases of the Barbizon school painters , like Jean-Francois Millet and Camille Corot. Today, Fontainebleau Forest continues to inspire artists, as it does outdoors enthusiasts, who flock for hiking, cycling, and bouldering.

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Three times a week (Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings), the grand square next to the Fontainebleau tourist office (Place de la République) is converted into a bustling street market. Hitting up the marché is a great way to mingle with locals and soak up the authentic ambience. Fontainebleau is in fact a city (and a prosperous one at that), but the market exudes a village vibe. Cheesemongers, butchers, green grocers, farmers, clothing, artisanal soaps—there’s a huge selection among the stalls. Follow the locals to find the best ones, and don't leave without a wheel of brie de Meaux. 

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Sprawling across 6,600 square feet, the serene spa takes its design cues from nature, with “living” walls, white stones, and light-colored wood. It occupies two levels of a restored ancient building. A highlight is the vast “sensorial space” that includes a wet area with pools, a hammam, sauna, “rain mist” corridor, and ice cave. There’s a three-pronged focus here: relaxation, slimming, and après-Golf, and you can actually follow the circuit through the sensorial zone based on your spa goals. The spa is open to the public, but it’s also possible to rent out the whole space.

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Simply put: This is the prettiest privately owned château in France. Even Princess Elizabeth agreed. On a visit in 1948, she said, “more beautiful than Versailles!” Famously, Vaux-le-Vicomte was actually the inspiration for the Château de Versailles . Today the chateau can be visited year-round, except for an annual winter closure; tickets can be purchased on site or online in advance. It draws a mix of Parisians and tourists. There are fun events throughout the year that draw regulars. In the summer, the gardens are lit with 2,000 candles during the “candlelit evenings.” There are also theatrical shows and concerts. The annual Christmas festivities are wildly popular as well; each room is individually decorated with a Christmas tree and festive decor.

Reims is a lot of things—the unspoken capital of the Champagne wine region , the City of Kings, and home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites. One of them is the nearly destroyed Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, where kings were crowned for more than a thousand years. The underrated destination in northeast France is riddled with Roman history, too. It's said that Remus, the brother of Romulus, founded the city, hence its name.

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Not only is it one of only two luxury hotels in the region, it's also a temple of high gastronomy. Any stay here should include a meal in the three-Michelin-Star restaurant which, on its own, is memorable enough. The outside may look straight out of the history books, but it's completely contemporary once you step through the front door. Rooms are large, bright, and airy, with jumbo beds ideal for sleeping. Finally, as this is Champagne, there is plenty of the good stuff available.

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Grand is the operative word at this Relais & Châteaux property adjacent to the Pommery champagne house. The building is surrounded by 17 acres of verdant parkland, the best view of which can be had from the La Rotonde bar, a warm space with live music and tall bay windows. A grand staircase takes guests up to one of 20 rooms done up in classic French style. Room decor sports royal vibes, transporting visitors to another century. With a Michelin-starred restaurant on site, staying here is like experiencing life as a Champagne royal.

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Tours at the Veuve Clicquot headquarters spotlight the brand's history while also showing off the cellars, which are carved into ancient limestone quarries called crayères. Group tours are limited to 19 people and conclude with a tasting. Other options include a Madame Clicquot-themed tour of Reims (for up to eight people) and tasting workshops. The tour provides a good overview of the Champagne-making process while also evoking a fascinating backstory.

Arnaud's Lallement three-Michelin star restaurant inside L'Assiette Champenoise hotel offers unparalleled ingredient sourcing and plated perfection.  Lallement took over the space from his father 20 years ago and puts out signature dishes, like langoustine royale with a creamy "nage" and caviar lemon; farm-raised squab with spinach caillette and pigeon juice; blue lobster from Brittany (an homage to his father). Service is first-rate from start to finish. Given the price tag and the formality of the experience, this is a once-in-a-lifetime meal for a special trip or occasion.

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An elegant dining room dining room set inside Les Crayères hotel , is the place for a last-meal-of-your-life situation. It's pure poetry and presentation. From the way the dishes are served to the plating and masterful flavor combinations, the food is awe-inspiring and far more modern and inventive than the grand, if classic, dining room decor would lead you to believe. If your belly allows, opt for the “Entre Vigne et Terroir” menu to get the full experience, or the Menu Blanc, which gives carte blanche to chef Philippe Mille to surprise you. Make sure to call over the cheese trolley, which features many options from the region, and choose the Champagne pairing with dinner. The list is truly vast. 

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An original fine-dining experience that feels unique for Reims. Artistic presentation and perfect preparations are what you'll take away from a meal here. Beautiful flavors that blend the chef's Japanese heritage with French training and ingredients. It's no surprise it earned a Michelin star. Go for the tasting menu to get a broad sense of the chef's culinary vision. Take the diner who wants a fine-dining experience without the pomp and circumstance that often follows the Michelin-starred vibe in Champagne.

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A puckishly hip ten-room hotel opened by Anselme Selosse, one of the great small Champagne makers, in a handsome nineteenth-century neoclassical manor house with sweeping views of the vineyards. A postmodern riff on conventional château style. French designer Bruno Borrione, who once worked with Philippe Starck, furnished the spacious lounge and dining room with sleek contemporary pieces while highlighting the parquet floors and white-painted moldings. Rooms are plush, well-lit cocoons in warm, acidic earth tones.

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This Reims institution is super-charged, with stained glass, wall hangings that look plucked from an antique market, old paintings and framed illustrations, small statues and flea market ephemera, vintage clocks, and old bistro tables and chairs. It's bright and colorful but if the weather allows, take your meal on the outdoor terrace. The space is full of character, with hearty, saucey, generous food, and a friendly and engaging staff. Perfect for a quick lunch before touring the Champagne estates all afternoon.

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This estate is one of a few in Champagne to have crayères, chalk caves that began as quarries in the Early Middle Ages and are ranked a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour itself, which is only available upon request, with reservation, and with a guide (in English or French), takes a sizable group (10 to 12) into the Gallo-Roman crayères. Most cellar visits are relatively straight forward, but the Pommery visit is punctuated by contemporary art installed throughout the tunnels and galleries as temporary exhibitions. This is an excellent tour for anyone visiting Champagne who knows little about the region, Champagne production, and even less about the crayères. It's an engaging visit that ends with a tasting.

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This gothic cathedral in the heart of Reims is more than 800 year old, and was badly damaged during WWI. In fact, 80 percent of the city was razed around it, so it's no small feat that it still stands today (with the help of perpetual periods of renovation). It was once where the kings of France were crowned, and it was one of the first monuments listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tickets are required ($9), but can be purchased upon arrival. A visit inside is crucial to really getting a sense of its grandeur, as well as the history of Reims. 

Is it possible to see too many châteaus in one trip to France? We think not. So go to Chantilly and visit one that's manageable but opulent, and famed for its extraordinary garden, which is the work of famous French gardener Le Nôtre. Chantilly is also known for its horses. The aforementioned château has the largest stables in Europe, and the town's Chantilly Racecourse is a prevalent part of the local culture.

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If it looks like a rustic cabin in the middle of the Domaine de Chantilly's vast gardens, you've found the right place. The restaurant is located in a little house, and is only open for lunch and tea service from March to November. Hearty, traditional French food is on the menu, but the real star of the show is the thick whipped cream, the Domaine's namesake heritage product. Oui oui, la crème Chantilly refers to whipped cream from Chantilly, a heavenly and decadent variety you're unlikely to taste anywhere else.

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It is an oasis in an already blissfully relaxing locale. With such close proximity to the Château de Chantilly , the stables, and the gardens, it is the perfect component to a countryside escape. Beyond the spacious and tasteful rooms, there's the Michelin-starred restaurant La Table du Connétable and the Valmont Spa, which includes a pool, sauna, and hammam. Guests will also find a billiard room, bar, and valet parking. Since the hotel is part of the Domaine de Chantilly, they have the keys to the château. As the most luxurious property in the area and given its relationship with the Domaine, you can't beat the location, calm, services, and dining experience.

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On the grounds of a vast park, this restaurant has developed a reputation for beautiful, terroir-driven cuisine emphasizing ingredients sourced from Chantilly and the extended region. Chef Anthony Denon took over the kitchens in early 2020; he’s worked alongside French culinary greats like Alain Ducasse, Christophe Saintagne, and Jean-François Piège, and his cooking shows technicality and finesse. For an outing at the horse races or a leisurely visit around the Château, the culinary experience here completes the visit. Go for a family lunch or a one-on-one dinner in the evening.

Château de Chantilly Arrow

With 115 hectares (285 acres) of land surrounding a Château in three different landscape styles—a French-style garden created by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century, an Anglo-Chinese Garden created in the 18th century, and the English Garden in the 19th century—you might say this is grand in design and scale. It's definitely on the manicured side of the continuum, but suitable for long walks. The French style garden offers incredible views, thanks to mirrored waters that produce reflections of the sky, fountains, and surrounding statues.

Musée Condé Arrow

Located inside the Château de Chantilly , the museum is effectively a series of rooms that housed the personal collection of the Duke of Aumale (Louis Philippe's son). Its art galleries boast the second largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre (for real!), with a layout that remains unchanged since the 19th century. This museography sees paintings laid out at several levels, frame by frame according to format, with no chronological order. The Santuario room houses the major masterpieces owned by the Duke, like The Three Graces and The Madonna of the House of Orléans by Raphael. Other rooms focus on art history, portraiture, Italian artists, and tapestry. While many visitors visit the Château at the gardens, not everyone realizes the breadth and scale of the collection housed in the museum.

Spa Valmont, at Auberge du Jeu de Paume Arrow

On the lower level of the L'Auberge du Jeu de Paume in the heart of Chantilly, this spa excels in service, and you're guaranteed a recharging experience. Fans rave about the signature "Thousand & One Chantilly" treatment, a sweet, sensory journey that includes a full body exfoliating treatment, massage, and whipped cream body mask. After the treatment, there's a pool area for a hot tea and a verrine of fresh Chantilly (whipped cream from the property) with seasonal fruit. You can lounge, go for a dip, or slide into the hot tub to extend the experience.

Lille, which is on the French-Belgium border, is known for its Flemish influences and architecture and for being named the European Capital of Culture. The university town is an intellectual hub, full of coffee shops and cafés where you'll find residents and students in conversation. Vieux Lille, the city's old town, is a charming neighborhood of restored red brick buildings that have a totally different feel from Paris when you walk along them.

Clarance Hotel Lille Arrow

Through a courtyard and into an 18th-century former hôtel particulier , or private mansion, there's a stately feel to an arrival at Clarance. It's one of the only five-star boutique hotels in town and is affordable for the quality of the services and dining options available. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and all decorated differently. La Table , the on-site restaurant, has a Michelin star, its chef Thibaut Gamba having worked with the likes of Pierre Gagnaire and Thomas Keller. The garden terrace is a wonderful spot for a drink when weather allows.

L'Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection Arrow

There's no mistaking you're in a converted, historic building: long before the Flemish gabled structure was Lille's first five-star hotel, it was a 15th century hospice. There's a massive stained glass window on the façade, an old hospice room still intact, and a 17th-century chapel. All of this sits alongside modern art, vast courtyards, a glass canopy, and a modern restaurant. Rooms are a mix of modern and a bit old fashioned: exposed wood beams, wood panels lining the walls around the bed, great light. There's fine dining in the red vaulted-ceiling restaurant, and it's considered some of the city's finest.

La Table Arrow

Inside the Clarance Hotel , La Table serves Michelin-starred food in 18th century surroundings. The food is seasonal and hearty, and the chef includes herbs foraged from the garden. Dishes may range from grilled langoustine served with salsify from Dries, fermented black garlic butter, and sage tempura, or Burgaud roasted duck atop stuffed Flanders cabbage. All of it beautifully plated and balanced in flavor (arguably what won the restaurant a Michelin star). The natural light the main dining room lets in is exquisite, but the other dining room is an all-wood library alcove set off in the back of the restaurant. It has an original spiral staircase that leads up to rows of books.

Le Bloempot Arrow

From a self-taught chef, the high level of modern Flemish cooking happening here draws increasingly discerning crowds. New York City loft meets Berlin beer garden meets French industrial zone: a vast space with heavy use of brick, rough-hewn wood, metallic beams, and massive open kitchen. It's laid-back and casual, welcoming and cool, a vibe that doesn't adequately prepare you for the high level, original cooking that lands on the plate. There’s a fixed menu called “Les yeux fermés,” a multi-course surprise with drink pairings, which shows off the bounty of the region. Sample dishes might include creamy pollack rillettes with bread chips, endive leaves and a jus de cuisson mousse; brined and grilled chicken with plump cauliflower; nettle sorbet with whole strawberries, strawberry chips, and yogurt mousse.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred Arrow

Take one look at the line snaking down the street, and you'll know you've come to the right place. And, as the name suggests, it's all about merveilleux here: an airy, layered meringue mound covered with sweet whipped cream and enveloped in a variety of coatings, from chocolate flakes to caramelized hazelnuts. All of the merveilleux are prepared in front of customers in a large open kitchen, and it's quite a sight to behold.

La Capsule Arrow

This is a destination for beer lovers. Since 2008, they've offered French and foreign craft beer brewers, on tap and by the bottle. There are always a rotating selection of 28 beers on tap and more than 100 options by the bottle. Don't want anything too hoppy? Into IPAs? There's something for everyone. Send your beer-loving friends and family members here for a taste of the best coming out of France and beyond. It's also in the heart of the old town, which means there are plenty of sights to take in before or after.

Méert Arrow

This shop and tea salon is visually arresting, with 18th and 19th century and Louis XVI decor , and many of its original bones. Even the façade dates to the first part of the 18th century. The rows of shelves and display cases full of cakes, waffles ( gaufres , the Méert signature), candies, and chocolates recall an old fashioned candy shop. The vanilla gaufre may be the house's signature, but any manner of other exquisite, perfectly prepared pastry are worth attention: financiers, éclairs, lemon tartelettes, Saint-Honoré, and another Lille specialty, the merveilleux. This place makes an impression inside and out.

Opéra de Lille Arrow

The original 18th-century opera house was destroyed by a fire, so its replacement dates to the early 1900s (officially opening to the public in 1923). Yet it still does a terrific job of transporting you to the past with its neo-classical flourishes. Today, it is one of the most prized architectural icons in the city. You can see operas, concerts, and contemporary dance performances—for the most part they're all original and locally produced. The primary audience is Northern French and Belgian, however, any fan of dance, opera, or music should stop in for a show to experience the space.

La Piscine - Musée d'Art et d'Industrie André Diligent Arrow

The Art and Industry museum in Roubaix, not far from Lille, is set inside the town's former Art Deco municipal pool. There are sculptures, paintings, ceramics, drawings, and more, all related to the textile industry. It's an atypical museum experience, but a fascinating look at northern France's artistic and industrial heritage. The central atrium with the solar stained glass and the water basin often hosts fashion shows, and there are often several temporary collections viewing simultaneously. The space itself is incredible and brings the pieces to life in a bold way. Overall: it's an Art Deco relic that has been preserved to honor the city's industrial and working class past. Good news when it comes to food, too. This isn't your average cafeteria food, it's Méert , the Roubaix outpost of the historic Lille pastry shop and tea salon.

Palais des Beaux Arts Arrow

This is one of the largest museums in all of France (also one of the first to be built, under Napoleon I), so expect grand and expansive collection halls. The collection highlights fine arts, modern art, and antiquities, with sculptures, paintings, drawings, and ceramics. All the heavy hitters are here: Raphael, Donatello, Van Dyck, Tissot, Jordaens, Rembrandt, Goya, El Greco, David, Corot, Courbet, Toulouse-Lautrec, Delacroix, Rubens, Rodin. It's an incredible and diverse array of works, with highlights like ancient mummies and Monet's painting of the Houses of Parliament in London.

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19 unforgettable day trips from paris by train.

Paris is not only an amazing European city that deserves your time, it’s also a great hub for day trips to stunning castles, charming towns, other cities, and to a few of the neighboring countries.

With the fast trains running these days, there are so many day trips from Paris by train you can choose from so you don’t have to get stuck in traffic. Trust me, you just don’t want to waste your time on that.

I’ve driven into Paris before and it’s such a waste of time. You can literally take the train to London and back in the same time you try to get out of Paris by car during rush hour. Not to talk about the environmental impact of driving in those queues.

You should at least spend 2 to 4 days in Paris to get the most out of the city, but if you have more time after that, make sure you take at least one of these train trips from Paris.

As the city is situated in the northern part of France, you can easily get on train rides from Paris to the neighboring countries, explore, and be back the same day.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.

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How to take the train from Paris

There are many big train stations in Paris and I’ll go through the main ones. You can buy your tickets at the train station on ticket machines with cash or card, in the ticket office, or online .

One of my top Paris travel tips when traveling by train is to check if your ticket is pre-validated or not. You have to validate your ticket before you board your train. In case you forget, look for the conductor before he or she finds you, to make them validate it for you.

Gare du Nord

Paris has several large train stations, Gare du Nord being the main train station and Europe’s busiest. From here, you can take the high-speed trains Eurostar to London, or TGV to pretty much all over France and beyond.

Gare Saint-Lazare

Gare Saint-Lazare is the oldest train station in Paris and second busiest. The train station serves trains to the north-west of the country.

Gare de l’Est

Gare de l’Est is mainly known for the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, known from Agatha Christia’s crime book “Murder on the Orient Express”.

But the train station serves most of north-east of France and neighboring countries.

Gare de Lyon

Gare de Lyon is the third busiest train station in the country and serves trains towards the southeast and east. Dijon, Lyon, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain are some of the destinations from there.

Gare d’Austerlitz

This train station has a dark history. It was used for transporting Jews to the camps during World War 2. On the other hand, it was also where they evacuated children to safety in the countryside.

Gare d’Austerlitz is the train station serving central and southern France.

Gare de Montparnasse

Gare de Montparnasse is said to be the world’s second-ugliest building. How is that for being Paris?

Nevertheless, it’s a useful building. It gets you to all of the western and southwest of the country and as far as northern Spain.

👉 PRE-BOOK TRAIN TICKETS HERE

Best day trips from Paris by train

Are you ready to check out train trips from Paris? There are some pretty cool destinations here that you might not have thought about.

The amazing city of Metz, mainly recognized for its astounding cathedral, is one of the best train trips from Paris and the perfect day trip. The charming city is flourishing with flowerbeds and green spaces, especially along the river and there are plenty of things to do in Metz .

The Gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral is one of the tallest in Europe, with its 42 meters, and can be seen all the way from the highway when passing the city. Its construction started in 1220 and took more than 300 years to finish.

Stroll through the charming Imperial Quarter or visit the permanent covered market, Marché Couvert, a must for any foodie.

Another basilica worth visiting is the Église St-Pierre-aux-Nonnains, one of Europe’s oldest churches dating back to 380 CE. However, the structure was first declared a house of God in the 7th century. Originally it was built to be the gym of a Roman spa.

Visit Metz Art & History Museum or marvel at the medieval architecture at Place Saint-Louis, in the old town. Close to the square you also find the church of Saint-Maximum which is well worth a visit.

Take the train from Gare de l’Est to Metz.

By Lily of Imperfect Idealist

Dijon, France  is the capital of Burgundy and the birthplace of Dijon mustard. The town is small but charming and is easily explored by foot in one day.

There are multiple trains from Paris to Dijon daily; the cheaper regional train (TER) takes 3 hours one way, and the faster train (TGV) takes 1,5 hours.

Dijon is perhaps best known for its mustard, which you can sample in the Maille or Edmond Fallot mustard shops. Edmond Fallot is especially fun, as they have a mustard vending machine.

The architecture of Dijon is also famous, featuring half-timbered houses and colorful tiled roofs. For the best examples of this traditional Burgundian architecture (and a great spot for those Instagram pics), visit Place François Rude and Hôtel Aubriot.

Rue Verrerie is another beautiful place to wander and admire, as it’s full of half-timbered houses, dessert shops, and unique stores.

If you’re a fan of museums, you can visit the nearby Musée des beaux-arts for free; be sure to at least walk around the courtyard, as the museum’s white stone architecture is beautiful – the building actually used to be a palace for the dukes of Burgundy!

Before heading back to the train station at the end of the day, stop by at the Jardin de l’Arquebuse, a nearby botanical garden with a free museum of natural history.

Strolling through the garden is always pleasant, but is especially nice in the spring, with the flowers and wisteria-covered archway. 

By Elisa of Travel France Bucketlist

Colmar is one of the most beautiful towns in the French region of Grand Est and a must-stop of the  Alsace Wine Route  in Eastern France. It is also one of the biggest towns so there are plenty of things to do in Colmar to keep you busy for a while.

Colmar is located 500km southeast of Paris, with fast connections by TGV train. The train ride from Paris Gare de l’Est to Colmar takes less than 3 hours and is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Paris by train.

People visit Colmar mainly for sightseeing, the town has beautiful traditional architecture of half-timbered houses. Colmar also has water canals which make the town even prettier.

It is possible to navigate some parts of the canals by small boats but the lines to get one are always long!

Colmar is the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty in New York. The town has a small museum dedicated to him where visitors can learn more about this artist and his masterwork.

A day trip to Colmar is also a good opportunity to taste the regional cuisine and do some wine tastings and perhaps buy some bottles of your favorite wines.

Rambouillet

By Lucile of LucileHR

Located only one hour west from the capital, Rambouillet will be among your favorite day trips from Paris by train and a  great way to travel locally . It truly has something for everyone from nature, to culture, and even delicious cheese.

There are so many hikes you can do for all levels in the forest and whether you prefer a light stroll or long-distance running, you are sure to find a circuit you enjoy.

One of my favorites is the one going from Le Perray train station to Rambouillet’s, passing through beautiful lakes and rivers and going along a 17th-century aqueduct. It takes between 3 and 4 hours depending on the route.

The forest hosts a wide range of wildlife and is a protected natural space. If you’re lucky, you might even see one of the few Wallabies that chose Rambouillet as their new home after escaping from a nearby zoo.

After you’re done hiking, you can head to the Bergerie Nationale for some snacks. You’ll find fresh cheese made on-site, as well as all kind of dairy products. If you have kids or really like animals, you can also visit the farm and play with really cute goats.

If you are into culture, Rambouillet is also the place for you, as it used to be a residence for Kings, Emperors, and the summer residence of Presidents until 2009. Make sure you plan for a visit of the gardens, as they are really gorgeous.

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

The name “Chartres” is virtually synonymous with the town’s magnificent Cathedral, which is undoubtedly the main attraction of any visit here.

It’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is often referred to as the high point of French Gothic architecture. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Cathedral is remarkably well preserved, considering how old it is.

The two main highlights of the Cathedral are the fine sculptures on both the interior and exterior and the colorful stained glass windows.

Most of the windows were created between 1210 and 1250, while the sculptures range from the 12th to the 18th centuries. Those on the façade date from the construction of the original Gothic Cathedral, while the ones on the choir screen inside were a much later addition.

Once you’ve thoroughly explored the Cathedral, climb to the top of the tower for gorgeous views of Chartres town and the French countryside surrounding it. Supposedly you can even see the Eiffel Tower from here on a clear day, though you’d have to be pretty lucky with the weather.

Strolling through town, you’ll see plenty of picturesque half-timbered houses with flower pots in the windowsill.

There are several restaurants serving traditional French cuisine, and the Thai restaurant Le Pailin is probably the best option for vegetarians and vegans, though it can’t compare to the  great vegan restaurants in Paris . Trains run regularly between Paris Montparnasse and Chartres and take just over an hour.

By Leyla of Offbeat France

If you plan on visiting the best-known  chateaux of the Loire Valley , the city of Blois is the perfect jumping off point. Less than 1h 30 from Paris-Austerlitz, it’s the kind of day trip from Paris that can satisfy your yearnings for history, culture and discovery all in one.

Blois is known for its royal castle, first and foremost, the residence of kings for centuries and if you’re coming for a day, half of it should be spent exploring this extraordinary castle, with four distinct architectural styles and where, rumor has it, Catherine of Medici plotted and planned the downfall of her enemies.

With only a day to spend, you have a choice: you can explore Blois, or you can jump on the chateau Navette bus and spend the afternoon in either Chambord or Cheverny.

If you stay in Blois, walking around is the ideal way to see this town, with its many religious buildings and half-timbered houses. For the best photograph of the city, start walking away from the center of town and cross part of the bridge over the Loire, then look back.

The city as seen from the water is stunning, and if you can be there at sunset, even better.

Should you decide to visit another chateau, then Chambord will give you greatness and space, while Cheverny will entertain you (a museum in honour of Tintin plus a kennel with 150 hunting dogs) and delight you with its perfect decor.

Either way, you’ll return feeling you’ve been on a real journey, not only in space but in time.

Château de Chantilly

By Norbert of World in Paris

Château de Chantilly is one of the  best castles near Paris  to visit, a fairy-tale castle located in the town of the same name. It is not a royal castle but it is so pretty that it was admired (and sometimes envied) by Kings and Queens.

In addition, Château de Chantilly is surrounded by magnificent French-style gardens designed by André Le Notre, the same landscape designer who worked on the Gardens of Versailles.

Chantilly is very easy to reach by train. Trains to Chantilly Gouvieux train station leave hourly from Paris Gare du Nord for a train ride of 25 minutes. From the train station, it’s a pleasant 10-minute walk through the forest to reach Château de Chantilly.

Château de Chantilly was built in the 19th century by Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Daumale and grandson of King Louis-Philippe I, to replace a medieval construction which was destroyed during the French Revolution.

Henri d’Orléans was the greatest art collector of his time and used the château to display all his artworks and show them to his guests.

His collection of antique paintings is very large – only second after the Louvre – and visitors can see it displayed exactly like when the Duke was living in the castle.

Not far from the château, the Great Stables of the Princes de Condé with the Horse Museum are also interesting to visit. The entrance ticket to the Great Stables usually comes with an equestrian show.

By Larch of The Silver Nomad

The pretty city of Reims is just a short 46-minute train journey from Paris’ Gare de l’Est to the north-east of Paris. Full of history, four UNESCO World Heritage sites and the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, it is not to be missed.

The gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is the first of the UNESCO World Heritage sites to be visited. For more than 1,000 years, the kings of France were crowned at the Cathedral. Famed for its stained-glass windows and statues, including the Smiling Angel, the 13 th  Century Cathedral saw the crowning of 33 French kings.

Next to the Cathedral is the Palace of Tau. The Palace which was once the residence of the Archbishops of Reims is now a museum which hold many of the items used in the coronations of the kings as well as statues and tapestries.

The Mars Gate, built in the 3 rd  Century AD, was a Roman-built set of four arches. Only one remains intact today, but at 32 metres long and 15 metres high and is highly decorated.

Reims is also the home to the St. Remi History Museum, the Reims-Champagne Automobile Museum, the art-deco Carnegie library, Gallo-Roman cryptoporticus, the 15th century Hotel Le Vergeur Museum, Reims Planetarium and the Reims Opera House.

No trip to Reims is complete without a visit to one of the champagne houses. There are many to choose from including Veuve Clicquot-Ponsardin, Taittinger, Pommery and Mumm. The perfect way to round off your day in Reims.

By Jonathan of Journey Maxx

As the last stop before going through the Channel Tunnel, Lille is perfectly situated almost equidistant between Paris, London and Brussels. It makes it to the list of the best Paris day trips by train, and can be reached in only an hour.

What is most striking about this city is how much closer it feels to Flemish rather than Gallic in influence and especially when looking at its buildings. This most notable in the Place Charles de Gaulle in the heart of Lille and the ornate details of La Vielle Bourse and the Belfry Tower.

If there is one unique thing to Lille you must try then it has to be the glorious sweet treat known as a Merveilleux. This concoction of what happens when you combine a meringue with a chocolate gateau cake is the pride and joy of this region and no better place to sample one than in the Aux Merveilleux bakery.

There is also the Palais des Beaux Artes which is also an essential place to visit to see a wide selection of artworks from the 15th Century to the 20th, and a natural history museum as well worth checking out too.

By Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

Sitting on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is a fantastic day trip from Paris by train. The city can easily be reached by high-speed train in only 2 hours. Being on the border, you get an interesting blend of culture that makes up this Alsatian city.

One of the highlights here is the massive Gothic style Strasbourg Cathedral. It’s one of the tallest churches in the world and can easily be seen while walking around Strasbourg’s Petite France historic district.

Petite France is full of beautiful half-timbered buildings that line canals branching from the Rhine River. One of the popular things to do here is to take a river cruise along the canals to see the city. If you are  visiting France in the winter , this is the perfect day trip to explore a traditional Christmas Market. Strasbourg hosts a massive Christmas Market every year that is spread across the old town and is lit up by Christmas Trees and lights.

While in Strasbourg, you should be sure to try some of the traditional foods. There are plenty of bakeries, candy shops, and restaurants set around Petite France that are worth popping into.

Strasbourg has a completely different vibe than Paris and feels more like exploring a fairy-tale village than a city. Its compact historic district is perfect to spend a day in to explore more of France.  

By Stephanie of History Fangirl

Perhaps the most popular day trip from Paris by train, visiting Versailles is easy and, quite simply, a must-do on your trip.

If you’re learning anything about the French Revolution during your time in Paris, you need to see the opulent palace for yourself to understand the inequality the people of France were facing leading up to it.

To get to Versailles by train, you will need to buy a ticket to the Versailles-Chateua Rive Gauche station. The cost to get from Paris to Versailles on this train line is less than eight Euros per person for the round-trip fare.

When you get your ticket, you will receive two tickets, one for each way of the destination. Hold on to the second ticket!

Once you arrive in the town of Versailles, you have a quick fifteen-minute walk to get to the palace. You should purchase a skip-the-line ticket if you’re arriving after the park opens.

Getting a skip-the-line ticket, which you can purchase ahead of time or in the office, allows you to go straight in and avoid spending what could be hours in line!

While here, tour the main palace, little Versaille, and Trianon, as well as the gardens. I encourage you to spend your entire day here since there is so much to see and do at Versailles.

If you drink, you can purchase a small bottle of champagne to enjoy on the grounds. You can also spend time pursuing the gift shop, which is a great place to look for souvenirs from your trip to France!

Disneyland Paris

By Krisztina of She Wanders Abroad

If you’re planning to  visit Paris  and you’re a Disney fan, you can’t miss out on visiting Disneyland Paris! It’s only a one-hour train ride away from the city, which makes it one of the best day trips from Paris.

In order to get to Disneyland Paris, you need to board a RER A train at Gare de Lyon and it will take you directly to the entrance. If you have a Navigo Pass or any other type of passes that are valid for Zone 5, you can use them for the train and you don’t even need to buy a separate train ticket.

However, if you don’t have such passes, you can buy a one-way or return ticket at one of the ticket booths at the station.

There are two parks right next to each other, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

You can buy a combined ticket which is valid for both parks or you can buy tickets separately as well. Depending on the number of parks you want to visit and your selected dates, you can usually get an adult ticket between 59-109 EUR for one day.

There are many interesting rides inside the park and it’s impossible to visit everything in just one day, so if you have more time, you can buy a multi-day pass as well. For an even more memorable experience, stay at one of the hotels onsite!

Day trips from Paris by train to other countries

There are also a whole lot of amazing day trips from Paris by train to other countries you can take. Here are some of the best!

London, England

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

Taking the Eurostar from Paris to London for a day trip is quick and easy, the train takes less than 2 hours and 30 minutes and you can maximize your time by planning for your day out in London ahead, having breakfast or a snooze if you get up early for the trip! 

There are 17 trains a day taking this route!  The train takes you right into the center of London where you can kick off your day by taking a tour on one of London’s iconic red double-decker buses. 

Once you’ve seen things from ground level head to the top of St Paul’s Cathedral for an awesome view. 

You can easily add some museums to your London itinerary as so many of them are free to enter and we recommend the Natural History Museum for a great exploration on a quick trip.

Wrap up your your day in London with a cruise on the Thames or a trip up the London Eye to see darkness fall over the city and then zip back to St Pancras Station and catch your train back to Paris!

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

By Sharon of Dive into Philippines

Only two hours away by TGV from Paris is the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, one of those small countries that only European history seems to throw up. Bigger than a city-state (it’s Europe’s largest mini-state) there’s a lot to cover in a day trip.

That said, it is dominated by Luxembourg City in terms of things to do. By far the biggest city, it was once a strategically important fortress and one of the attractions of the city is to walk around the still impressive city fortifications, walls and casements.

My favourite attraction to visit in Luxembourg City is the Grand Ducal palace. They may not be the most well known royal family going around but they are nice enough to let people tour their palatial home over the summer months when they are taking their holidays or staying at their castle just out of town. As a real life palace, it is cool to visit.

For a small city, Luxembourg City has a lot of art galleries and museums. The Nazis stole a lot the country’s best historical works but there are some worthwhile contemporary galleries to visit if you enjoy art.

Of significant historical interest is the American war cemetery, located in Hamm on the edge of Luxembourg City, where General George S. Patton was buried following his death in 1945.

There’s more to do than just Luxembourg City in Luxembourg and the country has a good network of trains with frequent services. The station in Luxembourg City is the terminus for all the country’s lines and this also serves as the stop for TGV services departing from Gare du l’Est. From there it’s only a short walk into the heart of the city.

Brussels, Belgium

By Paula of Paula Pins The Planet

One of the best things about Europe is the ability to travel around quickly, easily, and cheaply. One of the best day trips from Paris by train is to Brussels. It’s only about 195 miles (314 km) direct from Gare du Nord in central Paris to Brussels-South Station in 1:25 hours. 

The best option is the high-speed Thalys train that you can book directly on their website. I recommend booking it as soon as you know your plans, as the standard class tickets start at $32 but can shoot up to $100 if you purchase them last minute. 

There are many amazing things you can see and experience on a day trip to Brussels , Belgium’s incredible capital. The good thing is that Brussels is a very compact town and the main sights can be visited on foot.  

Start your visit to Brussels at the Grote Markt (Grand-Place), considered one of the most important squares in Belgium. While there you can also visit the city museum and the Brussels Town Hall.

The cathedrals of St. Michael and St. Gudula, with the stunning gothic architecture, are so worth a visit too. Take a picture of the famous Manneken Pis Statue, it sounds weird, but it’s a classic tourist attraction. 

You can’t miss tasting Belgian waffles, they are to die for, and don’t forget to buy a large bag of Belgian chocolate to bring home, it is definitely the best chocolate in the world. 

Namur, Belgium

By Philipp of Journication

Destinations in Belgium? I’m sure that Brussels, Antwerp or Liège will be in the top 5. But certainly not Namur. You should reconsider: The capital of Wallonia offers great conditions for a nice city trip: Exciting history, a great old town and picturesque views.

You can reach Namur by train from Paris in around 3 hours – a reasonable distance for a day trip if you don’t have the time for a Wallonia road trip .

The old town can be easily reached on foot from the train station. Here you can experience the old splendor of Wallonia. The Place du Vieux Marché with the old stock exchange and the belfry, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly worth seeing. Funny sculptures in front of the stock exchange show the characters Joseph and Francois, the heraldic animal of Namur: The snail!

From there, you can stroll at a leisurely pace through the old town, over old marketplaces, past splendid merchants’ houses and for refreshment in one of the many restaurants and bars. Because what is Belgium famous for? – Right: good beer!

The huge citadel shows the strategic importance of Namur at the confluence of the Maas and Sambre rivers. From above you have a magnificent view of the old town and the entire region.

There is a lot to discover in the extensive fortress area. Old gates, defense towers and the castle of Namur. The guided tours in the underground facilities and exhibitions, which provide a lot of information about the history of the city and the citadel, are particularly exciting.

Liege, Belgium

By Paulina of Paulina on the Road

If you’re planning for day trips from Paris by train, make sure to book a ticket for Liege, Belgium. It is the third-largest city of Belgium in terms of population and likewise is an attractive tourist place. 

It’s worth visiting Liege, Belgium, because of its unique style of churches, buildings, museums, art galleries, and many more, all designed like-heaven.

This city is also recommended for offering treats and amazing food such as chocolates, waffles, and Belgian fries. Of course, you’ll indulge in the best Belgian beer too! Additionally, various events and festivals operate throughout the year in Liege. 

Alongside this, there are various  things to do in Liege, Belgium . It includes touring historical places, like the Musee Des Beaux-Arts de Liege, Archeoforum of Liege, St Paul Cathedral, Church of St Bartholomew, Palace of the Prince-Bishops, Grand Curtius, and so on. Besides that, you can explore outdoor-activities, like climbing the Montagne de Bueren or marveling at the Liege-Guillemins Station.

For a day trip to Liege, Belgium, from Paris, it’s best to take a train as it covers more distance (approx. 373.1km) in a shorter time-duration (of 3hr and 50 min), as compared to a bus/car. Also, trains are readily available for this route as there are around 26 trains per day and two direct trains to Liege. 

Though, if you want to avoid paying a hefty amount, you need to book tickets beforehand, which generally costs almost $98 (€83). The best time to visit Liege, Belgium, is from May to October when the weather is exceptionally soothing, lively, and less humid. 

Bruges, Belgium

By Kat of World Wide Honeymoon

If you are dreaming of medieval architecture, romantic canals, and incredible food, then Bruges in Belgium should be on the top of your list of day trips from Paris by train!

A day trip to Bruges is perfectly do-able as it is only about 2,5 hours from Paris. One of the first things to do in Bruges is the Grote Markt, or the market square. This is home to the 12th century Belfry that you can also go inside and the Provincial Court. During the holiday season, the whole square turns into the most charming Christmas market too! 

After visiting the Grote Markt, a canal ride is a must to take in the stunning scenery, and, of course, a visit to a waffle shop like House of Waffles is necessary. Then, you’ll want to either visit a brewery like Bourgogne de Flanders or sip some tasty Belgian beer at a pub. 

Next up is a stop at the Church of Our Lady, and then you cannot leave without admiring the city at night with the bridges and trees lit up. Bruges is a stunningly beautiful place and small enough to make it the perfect spot for a day trip.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

By Maartje of The Orange Backpack

One of the best day trips from Paris is the Dutch city of Rotterdam . The city is known for its modern architecture, street art and must-visit hotspots. One day should be enough to get to know this must-visit in the Netherlands, but you’ll for sure want to come back.

The best things to do in Rotterdam is walking around to spot the beautiful architecture and street art, stopping at some nice coffee and brunch places along the way. Or even better: rent a bike and bike around as the locals do.

One of your first stops will be the train station where you’ll arrive. The train platforms are beautiful during sunny days because of the light play from the glass ceiling. The main hall is a sight as well.

Then head to the yellow footbridge where you could stop at the rooftop of Op het Dak for breakfast or lunch with a view. The historic City Hall and Post Office will be along your route to the immense Markthal with its impressive ceiling painting and great food.

You might want to visit one of the yellow cube houses, have some drinks at the old harbor (‘Oude Haven’), go shopping at the Pannenkoekenstraat or Meent street or visit one of the museums at the museum park.

You can easily get to Rotterdam from Paris with the direct Thalys train. It takes just over 2,5 hours. 

Responsible day tripping

Let’s not forget to be responsible travelers when going on these amazing train rides from Paris. Make space for respecting and talking to the locals to learn more about the place you’re visiting. This will make the trip much more pleasant for the locals, especially in popular destinations like Colmar and London.

Take with you a reusable water bottle on your day trips from Paris so that you don’t have to buy single use plastic bottles on the way. If you’re an addict of coffee on the go, why not bring en eco-friendly reusable coffee cup too.

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Your guide to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, one of the most beautiful villages in France

Looking for a France tour that offers Provençal charm, picturesque mountain scenery, and some of the prettiest French pottery? Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is calling! “What you imagine when hearing ‘quaint medieval French village’ is what you get with Moustiers-Sainte-Marie,” said staffer Lydia. Read on to discover how to make the most of your time in one of the most beautiful villages in France.

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France holiday destinations: the most beautiful places to explore this year

Whether you want to taste world-class wines in lovely vineyards, explore prehistoric caves or laze on a Mediterranean beach, France has all of this and more

France has the perfect region for everyone – which is why we've rounded up our favourite France holidays to feature something everyone will love, from gorgeous coastal resorts and blissful islands to bustling cities, from national parks and reserves filled with thrilling outdoor pursuits to world-class art and architecture.

You might head for an alpine lake or be lured by a river beach, you might discover modern metropolises that are busy greening themselves for the 21st century and beyond, or you may be tempted by splendid châteaux, cathedrals and other great reminders of bygone eras. But perhaps the best thing about France is that you don’t have to choose – it’s all there for the taking in fantastic destinations in every corner of the land.

And anywhere you decide to go, you’re guaranteed the fabulous cuisine that is so much part of the reason people come back to France time and again.

Whether you're looking to travel by Eurostar or drive, there's a city , coastal spot or beautiful countryside to be explored. From Bordeaux to Lille and Provence to Marseille , these are the best France holiday destinations to discover this year.

At the heart of one of the world’s most revered wine-growing regions, this rapidly evolving river port draws oenophiles but also those who love French gastronomy and culture in general. Perhaps its main sight is the immense and wonderfully interactive Cité du Vin, but part of the charm of Bordeaux is just discovering its districts - including hip Chartrons - and its riverside on foot or by bike.

You’ll be rewarded for your amblings by architectural glories in styles ranging from Gothic and neo-classical to contemporary, by art and history museums galore, and of course by wine estates including the bijou Chateau les Carmes Haut-Brion within the city limits, with a spectacular modern wine cellar by Philippe Starck. Bordeaux is also a fantastic French destination to reach by train, less than six hours from London by Eurostar and TGV.

Where to Stay : The best Bordeaux hotels range from boutique urban boltholes to wine estates offering dining in the midst of the vines. Some have Michelin-starred restaurants and some even have grape-based spa treatments. Try the chic Mondrian Bordeaux , which opened recently.

Provence and the Côte d’Azur/French Riviera

A vast and varied area, the South of France (the historic province of Provence, which is now largely equivalent to the modern-day Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region/Région Sud) embraces everything from the North-African-inflected city of Marseille and glam, yacht-filled resorts such as Nice, Cannes and St Tropez to tiny timeless villages lost amid rugged countryside scented by local herbs.

Provence and the Côte d’Azur are perfect for anything from a long weekend in France to a full-on holiday, and the weather is mild enough even in February to make this a great pick for a winter break. It’s also easy reached by Eurostar and TGV.

Where to stay : The best Provence hotels are inspired by surrounding nature, whether it’s lavender fields or Mediterranean beaches, and many have great restaurants showing fresh produce including fish fresh from the fishing boats – some holding Michelin stars. See also our round-up of recommendations in the laidback Riviera resort of Antibes with its cobbled streets, 16th-century ramparts and Picasso museum. Try La Place Boutique Hotel , located in the old town of Antibes.

Loire Valley

Dating from its 150 years as home to the French court, the castles of the Loire Valley are so impressive that this entire area is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Among the most breathtaking are Chenonceau straddling the Cher river, and the almost ridiculously opulent Chambord, the biggest, including a famous open double-helix staircase said to have been designed by Leonardo da Vinci.

But the landscapes of the Loire Valley are spectacular too, from the wide swathe of the River Loire itself to the vast old hunting forests full of stags and wild boar, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including boat cruises, canoeing, cycling along the river banks, and exploring local cave homes.

How to visit: Country Living's tour of the Loire Valley takes in several extravagant châteaux, magnificent cathedrals and abbeys, and lush gardens.

Now an an artists’ village with workshops, galleries and a re-creation of a historic artists’ studio, this Normandy beauty spot 75km north-west of Paris was home to Claude Monet for half his life, from 1883 to 1926, and provided inspiration for his iconic water-lily and Japanese bridge paintings.

Long a pilgrimage site among both art and plant lovers, it’s back in the limelight thanks to the film Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse . You can also see other sites in the surrounding Seine Valley that inspired Monet and his fellow Impressionists.

How to visit : Giverny is the focal point of our tour of Monet’s France through paintings and gardens, accompanied by Paula McWaters and also including the chance to immerse yourself in Monet’s vast Les Nymph é as (The Water Lilies) in Paris’s Musée de l’Orangerie.

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From its Haussmannian boulevards to its great green spaces, the City of Lights is always a delight, no matter how many times you visit or with whom. There are too many sights to do justice to here, but among the highlights are the Jardin du Luxembourg with its sculptures, boating pond and puppet theatre, the Jardin des Plantes – botanical gardens housing three natural-history museums – and of course the Seine (a river cruise is a great way to take in several major landmarks including Notre-Dame cathedral).

Paris is also a glamorous destination for foodies and fashionistas, with some of the world’s best dining plus superb shopping everywhere from neighbourhoo boutiques and historic department stores to incredible fleamarkets.

Where to stay : Hôtel Madame Rêve has a beautifully nostalgic setting in Paris’ old central post office near the Louvre, a breathtaking decor of boiserie panels, golden velvet and 8m-high ceilings, and fabulous views from its top-floor restaurant and roof terrace.

Oozing creativity, innovation and cultural dynamism, this port city on the Loire River in western France has the unique attraction of the amazing Machines de l’Ile, a collection of giant mechanical ‘living machines’ based on the imaginings of Jules Verne, Leonardo da Vinci and others, some of which you can ‘test’ or even ride, including the 12m-tall Great Elephant and the Marine Carousel.

Jules Verne was born in the city, and there’s also a Musée Jules Verne with a multi-media trail. Another must-see is the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany, including displays on Nantes’ role in the slave trade.

Nantes is also a very green city, with an evolving network of eco-friendly transport including new tram lines and green zones for pedestrians and cyclists. It’s also handy for the seaside in destinations including La Baule, Le Croisic and Noirmoutier island with its oyster huts.

Where to stay : The first five-star hotel in the area, a few minutes from the city centre, the Château de Maubreuil sits in a wooded estate with lovely gardens and offers a Cinq Mondes spa and superb dining.

Pastel-painted houses lining the river and canal banks, winding cobbled alleys and array of green spaces make the ‘Venice of France’ a fairytale destination - especially in its Vieille Ville (Old Town). It also holds the rare Fleur d’Or (‘Gold Flower’) award from the national association Villes et Villages Fleuris (‘Cities and Villages in Bloom’).

Other highlights of this capital of the Haute Savoie region of south-eastern France are the Pont de l’Amour or Lovers’ Bridge, a wrought-iron affair with to-die-or mountain and lake views, and the Jardins de l’Europe – laid out by Henry I, Duke of Savoy-Nemours, with ginkgo bilboas, laricio pines, giant sequoias and a tulip tree. There’s also walking, cycling and lake-based water sports to enjoy.

Where to Stay : Hôtel Le Pélican occupies a former alms house transformed by star architect Christian de Portzamparc and offers lake and mountain views from many of its rooms and other spaces, which include a bistro and an artisan bakery. There’s also a seasonal outdoor pool with a pool bar.

The birthplace of art is so named for having some of the world’s oldest cave paintings, and while you can’t access the most famous caves, Lascaux, for risk of damaging their 16,000-year-old artworks, you can see reproductions of two of the cave halls at nearby Lascaux II and further reproductions in Le Thot – Centre d'Interpretation de la Prehistoire.

Once ruled by the British, Périgord – as the French know it – is still popular for its slower-paced of life, its rolling countryside dotted with lovely châteaux, and its amazing, if often very rich, food (this is truffle country). But you can work it all off by swim or canoeing in or the Dordogne, especially at Limeuil, with its river-beaches. You can also take a trip along the river in a traditional gabarre , seeing fabulous castles en route.

Where to stay : Le Clos 1855 is a luxury B&B near Limeuil with the option of fabulous dining on local products, plus an outdoor pool for the summer months.

Lively festivals, beautiful beaches and incredible geological formations, record-breaking lighthouses, spiralling head-dresses ( coiffes ), record-breaking lighthouses, and even fairies (the shapeshifting korrigans of local myth)… The northwest corner of France is another world, although it shares a Celtic heritage with parts of Britain and many of its ancient sites were built by the same folk as Stonehenge.

Among must-sees are St-Malo, an ancient walled pirates’ city, the Côte de Granit Rose with its pinkish rocks carved by the elements, the wild, windswept island of Ouessant with Europe’s most powerful lighthouse and unique dwarf black sheep, and Carnac, the most important prehistoric site in Europe, with around 3000 menhirs older than Egypt’s pyramids, thought to have been a lunar observatory.

Where to stay : An icon and an institution dating back nearly 150 years, the Hôtel Barrière Le Grand Hôtel is a classic seaside hotel with views of the St-Malo ramparts and a spa with a pool, sauna and hammam.

It’s not hard to fall in love with this French island perched out in the Mediterranean, clad in fragrant evergreen maquis and studded with ancient cork oaks and olive trees. Time seems to stand still here as you hike past rock roses, prickly pears and immortelles while red-tailed kites circle overhead.

Among the island’s most charming spots are the Balagne region with its hilltop villages including Montemaggiore and Pigna with their charming rustic architecture and authentic little bars serving fresh lemon and clementine juice from Corsica’s orchards. The bustling ports of Bastia, Ajaccio and Porto-Vecchio are all worth spending time in too, and the local markets are sensational.

Where to stay : A family-owned five-star in the Relais & Châteaux portfolio, the Grand Hôtel de Cala Rossa overlooks a vast sandy beach in the bay of Porto-Vecchio and includes a swanky Nucca spa.

More European ideas:

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FYI- Orangerie Tickets released - Paris Forum

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FYI- Orangerie Tickets released

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I had been checking a lot to see when the second half of July would be open for tickets and it looks like today is the day! All of July and August are open, besides the dates leading up to the Opening Ceremonies of the Olympics (and I assume the Paralympics as well). I did also notice that most of the JOP time the first available slot is at 9:30 instead of 9am like expected (unless EVERYBODY got online this morning and booked all the 9am slots for half of July and all of August haha).

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Get to Know this Creamy Cheese from the French Countryside

• May 13, 2024

[Sponsored article] French gastronomy is very rich, and one of its flagship dishes is cheese. Luckily, in France, there is a wide variety of cheeses to suit all tastes. Learn more about Fromagerie Guilloteau , and how it makes its creamy cheeses, for a better understanding of this quintessential element of French cuisine.

Back to the Roots of Guilloteau

For more than 40 years, Fromagerie Guilloteau has been crafting deliciously creamy cheeses in the French countryside. You may also know them under the brand names Fromager d’Affinois , their double cream line, or Saint Angel, their triple cream line. Both are a must try for any cheese lover.

It all started in the early 80s, when Monsieur Guilloteau began creating his own cheese. He was passionate and dedicated 10 years of his life to pioneering the recipe that is still used today in Pélussin.

Pélussin is a small village situated in the Rhônes Alpes region, in proximity to Lyon, the capital of gastronomy in France. This region, in addition to bringing together two of the largest French mountain ranges, is also characterized by its diversity in landscapes, wine, and cuisine.

Monsieur Guilloteau crafted his first cheese in 1981 using a unique approach to cheesemaking, which involved filtering the milk, using only the most noble part of it. A melt-in-the-mouth texture and a unique thin rind distinguish this French cheese.

An Award-Winning Cheese

Monsieur Guilloteau’s savoir-faire was passed down from generation to generation, resulting in delicious cheeses which received 14 awards in 2022 alone. The Fromager d’Affinois double cream “Le Fromager” was voted best among other cheeses at the Mondial du Fromage in 2023, and the awards continue to come their way.

Set out on a journey to the heart of the French countryside with Fromager d’Affinois and Saint Angel. These cheeses are certain to delight on any occasion, whether as the centerpiece of a cheeseboard or as an elegant dessert with a few complements.

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Sponsored articles do not belong to the editorial team at Frenchly. They are provided or written at the request of the advertiser, who determines the content. 

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With lamb and cheese, Macron tried to charm China's Xi in the Pyrenees

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8 French phrases you'll need in Paris

If you're learning French for a trip to Paris, you probably know some of the basics —but some words have surprising or specific meanings when you're in the city of lights!

Here are eight phrases you'll use all the time in Paris.

Rive gauche and Rive droite

You might recognize gauche (left) and droite (right) from lessons about directions and getting around town, but they have an additional meaning in Paris: which side of the Seine river you're on!

Rive gauche means "left bank," and it includes the arrondissements (Paris neighborhoods) south of the Seine. You'll be on the rive gauche if you visit the Latin Quarter, the Luxembourg Gardens, or the Eiffel Tower.

The rive droite , or "right bank," includes the arrondissements north of the Seine, like the neighborhood Le Marais, the Louvre Museum, and the Arc de Triomphe.

Eau gazeuse and eau plate

When ordering water at a Parisian restaurant, you'll want to let the server know whether you want eau gazeuse (carbonated water) or eau plate (still water). It's standard to get a bottle of water when you order, so if you want to avoid the fancy stuff, opt for une carafe d'eau plate : A carafe of water is free!

Bonne journée and bonne soirée

Bonjour (good morning, good afternoon) and bonsoir (good evening) are how you greet people in French—and they are more important than you might think ! When it's time to tell someone goodbye, there's another pair of words to know: bonne journée for "have a nice day" and bonne soirée for "have a nice evening."

Sur place and à emporter

At bakeries and cafés that have tables where you can sit and eat your goodies, you might be asked whether you want to order them sur place (to eat at the venue) or à emporter (to go, for takeaway). Sometimes eating sur place means you'll pay a slightly higher price. If you'll be picnicking at one of Paris's beautiful gardens or plazas, you'll get a lot of practice ordering food à emporter !

Vous êtes prets ?

Are you reading for your trip to Paris? There are other simple French phrases you can practice to make the most of your experience in France, and for the more ambitious travelers, you can become conversational in French in less time than you think! 

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