beautiful places to visit outside paris

14 Beautiful Towns & Cities Near Paris That Are Worth Visiting

Want to explore some towns and cities near Paris ? From artsy towns and beautiful hamlets to historical and architectural cities, this article has them all.

Paris is not only the capital of France but also the most famous and most visited city in the country too.

The city of love , art, impressive architecture, and elegance, there is so much that makes Paris one of the most beautiful cities in Europe .

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While there are so many things to do in Paris , sometimes you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of this magnetic city and explore other places.

Whether you want to go on a day trip or a weekend trip from Paris , there are so many charming and cute cities near Paris that will leave you wondering why you haven’t explored them yet.

Right from Chantilly which is one of the closest cities to Paris to Normandy which is approximately 3 hours away, here is a list of 14 beautiful cities close to Paris that are worth visiting and I guarantee, they’ll leave you spellbound.

I’ve also included some fun facts and unique bits of information so be sure to read those as well.

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

WHERE TO STAY Best Eiffel Tower Views:  Hôtel Le Walt  (9.0) Luxury stay:  Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel  (8.2) Mid-range stay:  Hôtel Eiffel  (8.7) Budget Stay:  People – Paris Bercy  (8.9) Apartment Rental:  Résidence Charles Floquet  (9.1)  

BEST GUIDED TOURS Louvre Museum guided tour : (4.5/5) Seine River Dinner Cruise : (4.7/5) Montmartre Walking Tour : (4.8/5) Le Marais Walking Food Tour : (4.5/5) Versailles Guided Tour : (4.8/5) Eiffel Tower Guided Tour : (4.4/5) 

• Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more.
• Prepare your trip extensively with this Paris Travel guidebook .
• Don’t forget a universal travel adapter , a travel neck pouch , and comfortable walking shoes .
• Consider getting either the museum pass or the Paris city pass if you plan to visit many attractions. The city pass comes with free transportation and access to the hop-on-hop-off bus. You can read my Paris museum pass review to see if it’s right for you.
• Book this private transfer from CDG airport to Paris to avoid the hustle of figuring out how to get to Paris.

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Stunning Towns & Cities Near Paris, France

For convenience’s sake, I have listed the French cities near Paris from closest to farthest though they may not necessarily be in the same direction.

1. Chantilly

• Travel time: 25 mins from Gare du Nord by train or 40 mins if you rent a car and drive to Chantilly .
• Where to stay in Chantilly: Budget hotel (2 stars)| Mid-range Hotel (Bed & Breakfast)| Luxury Hotel (5 stars).

Famously known because of an opulent Château which takes on the same name as the city, Chantilly is the nearest city to Paris!

Though Château de Chantilly is usually thought of as just one castle, it is in fact made of 2 Châteaux – the Petit Château and the Grand Château which together form the Domaine de Chantilly.

The entire Domaine houses several museums including the Living Museum of the Horse or Musée du Cheval , Musée Condé , Musée de la Dentelle , Great Stables or the Grandes Ecuries (which are the largest horse stables in Europe), and the immaculately maintained gardens.

Besides the castle, you can also marvel at the Church of Notre Dame of Chantilly which you can find near the Great Stables of Domaine de Chantilly.

If a long walk surrounded by nature is what you long for, look no further than the Chantilly Forest.

While in this beautiful town, don’t forget to try the eponymous French Chantilly Cream (Crème Chantilly) which has influenced the whipped cream business all around France. In fact, whipped cream is referred to as creme chantilly or just la chantilly everywhere in the country.

Before your trip, be sure to buy this Château de Chantilly skip-the-line ticket to enjoy your visit without waiting in line for long.

2. Versailles

• Travel time: Paris to Versailles will take you 40 mins to 1 hour by train .
• Where to stay in Versailles: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment)| Luxury Hotel (5 stars).

One of the easy day trips from Paris you should take is to the town of Versailles which is home to the opulent Château de Versailles or Palace of Versailles, a former residence of King Louis XIV and the former seat of the French Government.

While there, be sure to check out the Hall of Mirrors , the Grand Chapel , Marie Antoinette’s bedroom , Le Grand Perspective for the best view of Versailles, Galerie des Carrosses or Gallery of Coaches in the Great Stables, and the dazzling and beautiful gardens of Versailles .

The grounds and the place’s park also house some architectural marvels of the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon .

The Queen’s Hamlet or The Hameau de la Reine is another beauty in the Palace park that was built especially for Marie Antoinette as an escape place to get away from it all.

If watching an opera, orchestra, or ballet performance is on your bucket list, then you’ll be glad to know that the Royal Opera of Versailles is located here as well. Dress up like royalty and attend a show at night.

While in the town, I’d also recommend checking out the Versailles Market to try out a wide range of French foods like baguettes, crêpes, and cheese but if organic food is what you prefer, then the Jussieu-Montreuil market is the place you’ll want to explore.

You can also admire the architectural beauty of Notre Dame de Versailles before you leave this historical town.

To visit Versailles, you can either go on your own by purchasing this skip-the-line ticket that comes with an audio guide or book this guided tour if you want to learn about the history of the palace from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Not sure how to get to this opulent castle? You can read my detailed guide on how to get from Paris to Versailles .

3. Fontainebleau

• Travel time: A 45 mins to 1-hour train ride from Paris departing from Gare de Lyon .
• Where to stay in Fontainebleau: Budget hotel (3 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Since I’ve mentioned Versailles, I should also add the lesser crowded alternative; the gorgeous Château de Fontainebleau located in the beautiful town of Fontainebleau.

Besides its grandeur architecture and the famous Horseshoe staircase, this UNESCO-listed site houses Marie Antoinette’s bed and Napoleon’s throne among other royal artifacts.

The castle is also surrounded by beautiful gardens which take on different designs including the French formal garden style and the French landscape garden.

If you’re a history buff, then the Napoleon Museum of History and Art and the Obelisk of Marie Antoinette will fascinate you.

What makes this castle even more special is that it’s the only château to have been continuously inhabited for 7 centuries by the French royal families with each royal family adding its unique taste and architectural design to what we see today. It is the only château in France to have this honor.

Hikers, picnic goers, and equestrians will be delighted with the scenic Fontainebleau Forest and its offerings.

Psst… Purchase this Fontainebleau entry ticket in advance to make your visit easier.

• Travel time: 1-hour train ride from Gare du Nord or more than a 2-hour drive by car .
• Where to stay in Lille: Budget hotel (3 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Apartment).

Located just 1 hour away from Paris and at the Border of Belgium, Lille is one of the beautiful cities near Paris that has a mixture of both French and Flemish cultures and languages.

The bustling city center, the beautiful French and Dutch-inspired architecture, and the thriving nightlife all make the city of Lille a cultural hub perfect for both youngsters and history nerds.

The highlight of course is the old town that has a Flemish touch. From the 18th-century houses, cobblestone streets, and baroque buildings, Old Lille will definitely grab your attention.

Stroll around its main square known as the Grand Place to either people watch, rub shoulders with the locals, or even admire the Colonne de la Déesse (The Column of the Goddess).

Some of the other places worth visiting while in Lille include;   Maison Natale Charles de Gaulle which is the birthplace of Charles de Gaulle, a former President of France who played a huge role in shaping the history of the country, La Maison Meert to taste the traditional thin-waffle delicacy, Le Palais Des Beaux Arts De Lille which is one of the largest museums in France dedicated to art and antiquities, Citadelle de Lille to learn about the history of the city and so many others.

Since it’s near, it can easily be treated as a day trip from Paris but if you prefer to sleep there, I recommend staying at this hotel .

And while you can visit independently, I recommend booking this 2-hour guided walking tour that will take you through all the major highlights of the city especially if you’re just visiting for a day.

5. Auvers-Sur-Oise

• Travel time: 1 hour by train departing from Gare du Nord .
• Where to stay in Auvers-Sur-Oise: Budget hotel (Bed & Breakfast) | Mid-range Hotel (4 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Bed & Breakfast).

This small and underrated hamlet caught the fancy of none other than the famous artist, Vincent Van Gogh , who lived here for a couple of months before his death. Actually, it is also his and his brother’s resting place.

Château d’Auvers , which is located close to the station, is a 19th-century palace that looks magnificent and is worth checking out.

The église d’Auvers or the Church at Auvers is also another attraction depicted beautifully in Van Gogh’s painting of the same name.

To get your spirits up, quite literally, you can visit the only absinthe museum in the world located in Auvers at the Musée de l’Absinthe . Right from its history to abuse to actually tasting it (if you can risk it), you can experience it all.

• Travel time: A 1-hour drive by car or 2 hours 30 mins by train will get you from Paris to Giverny.
• Where to stay in Giverny: Budget hotel (Bed & Breakfast) | Mid-range Hotel (Holiday home) | Luxury Hotel (Guest house).

This quaint village is famous because Claude Monet lived here for over 4 decades and died here as well. The picturesque surroundings are probably what draws aesthetes here and inspires them.

For example, the Giverny Gardens with the iconic water lily pond and Japanese bridge are what inspired some of Monet’s most famous paintings .

Art lovers can also check out the Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny or Museum of Impressionism Giverny which as the name suggests is dedicated to the art and history of Impressionism.

You can check out my detailed guide on how to plan a day trip to Giverny from Paris to know exactly what to expect.

But if you don’t feel like planning the visit on your own, you can book this day trip guided tour that comes with a professional guide .

This tour will transport you from Paris to Giverny (since there is no direct public transport between the 2 places) and then the tour guide will take you all around the museum and the gardens while telling you about the history of the place and the famous painter.

7. Chartres

• Travel time: 50 mins drive by car and 1 hour by train .
• Where to stay in Chartres: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment)| Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Chartres is most famous for the Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral which is not only a UNESCO World Heritage site but also one of the best-preserved cathedrals from the 13 th century.

The two differently built and decorated spires on the exterior with its Gothic art and stained glass windows on the interior are what will grab your attention when you visit the cathedral.

Do not miss the Chartres Light Show or Chartres En Lumieres if you visit between the end of April to mid-October. Once it’s nightfall, 25 buildings across Chartres, including Notre-Dame de Chartres, illuminate with impressive light shows.

Another unique charm of this town is Maison Picassiette , which is a short bus ride away. Raymond Isidore the man who built this house used different bits and materials to decorate it.

You will be fascinated to find everything from glass shards to pieces of wood to bottle caps used in a creative manner.

Plus, the sculpture garden behind his cottage has mosaic replicas of stained-glass windows of Notre Dame de Chartres, an old windmill, and even the Eiffel Tower .

• Travel time: 1 hour 30 mins from Gare de l’Est by train .
• Where to stay in Provins: Budget hotel (Apartment) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Bed & Breakfast).

The town of Provins is another UNESCO World Heritage site that you should visit if you want to be transported back in time.

Everything about it screams medieval and dates back centuries like the 12th-century medieval tower, Tour César , or the medieval tunnels, Les Souterrains de Provins .

The city also holds a medieval Christmas market annually which you can visit if you go around Christmastime .

The town itself is pretty laidback but it does have medieval shows that you can watch like knights performing with horses and falconry.

You can also visit or attend mass at Saint-Quiriace Collegiate Church , a church where Joan of Arc attended mass.

One of the other interesting things to do in Provins is to walk up Saint-Jean’s Gate and climb the medieval ramparts.

Though some of the walls are no longer there, the few that exist are well maintained so you’ll be able to enjoy the construction that dates back to the 12th century.

• Travel time: A 1 hour 20 mins train journey from Gare du Nord to Amiens .
• Where to stay in Amiens: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment) | Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Situated in the northern region of France, Amiens is one of the cutest cities near Paris.

The Amiens Cathedral or Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens which is the most famous attraction in the city is also the largest cathedral in France.

This UNESCO site which stands tall at over 42 meters (137 feet) will mesmerize you with its intricate façade, oak choir stalls, and gothic carvings.

If you’re a bibliophile and know of Jules Verne or have read his books, then you should also know that he spent a big part of his life in this city specifically in Maison de Jules Verne which now houses models of innovations and the Winter Garden.

For fine art lovers, the Musée de Picardie will amaze you. It includes artifacts and masterpieces right from the prehistoric era.

Also, the Quartier Saint-Leu, a medieval quarter in Amiens will have you exploring and trying out different restaurants, cafés, and boutiques.

10. Strasbourg

• Travel time: 2 hours from Gare de l’Est by train .
• Where to stay in Strasbourg: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (Apartment) | Luxury Hotel (4 stars).

Apart from being a poster town for the Christmas Market or Marché de Noel, Strasbourg offers so much more.

For example, the Saint-Pierre Le Jeune Church has a unique history that you may not know about. Until recently, neither did I.

This neo-Romanesque church started off as a Catholic church and was converted to a Protestant one.

Later on, for nearly 2 centuries, it was split among the Protestants and the Catholics by a dividing wall inside.

In 1898, the New Saint-Pierre Le Jeune Church was constructed and the Catholic congregation moved there and the wall was taken down. It is now back to being a Protestant church.

Then there’s the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg with its beautiful Gothic architecture in red sandstone and stained glass windows from the 12 th and 13 th centuries.

Even Strasbourg’s historical centre, the Grande-Île district, is a UNESCO-listed site. Beyond the impressive architecture that portrays both the German and French styles, there is so much to do and see in Strasbourg.

From Place Kleber , a beautiful square, Palais Rohan a beautiful palace near Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg to Petite France which is the most beautiful place in the city with its colorful half-timbered houses lined along the river.

With all this beauty, it’s not hard to see why Strasbourg is one of the most beautiful cities near Paris to visit.

To make your visit to Strasbourg smooth, you can pre-book your activities in advance to be guaranteed a spot.

You can either book this Strasbourg guided tour by Segway if you want to discover the city in style or this Strasbourg city center guided bike tour with a local to get the most out of your visit.

11. Chablis

• Travel time: 2 hours’ drive by car from Paris will get you to Chablis or around 3 hours by train.
• Where to stay in Chablis: Budget hotel (Apartment) | Mid-range Hotel (3 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Holiday Home).

Located in the region of Burgundy, this medieval town of Chablis is well known for growing Chardonnay grapes and hence known for its wineries.

Besides learning about the whole winemaking process, you can visit the 9th-century Obédiencerie monastery where the monks, the Canons of Saint Martin of Tours, honed the craft of winemaking which eventually led to the white wine of the Chablis region.

Other notable things to do that make Chablis worth visiting include visiting Saint-Pierre and Saint-Martin churches , admiring the beautiful old town, and ofcourse visiting the various vineyards.

In brief, Chablis is one of the towns near Paris perfect for wine lovers!

12. Loire Valley

• Travel time: To get to the Loire Valley region, you will have to rent a car and it takes about 2 hours 15 mins or 1 hour 30 mins by train.
• Where to stay in Tours: Budget hotel (1 star) | Mid-range Hotel (2 stars) | Luxury Hotel (Apartment).

Loire Valley is one of the best regions to savor your wine. Where are the oenophiles at? Besides that, it also has the largest concentration of châteaux in France .

Here, even some of the châteaux have their own vineyards so if you like castles, adore your “Vin” time, and want to feel like royalty while you’re at it, this is the ideal place to go.

Some of the famous châteaux worth visiting include Château de Chambord , Château de Amboise , Château Royal de Blois , Château de Chenonceau and so many others.

And when you’re not drinking amazing wine or getting lost in one of the Loire Castles, take a tour of Tours, a picturesque town located between two rivers (Cher and Loire).

You can immerse yourself in art at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours which houses masterpieces by Monet and Rembrandt.

Here are some of the entry tickets to the famous castles you shouldn’t miss while in the region.

• Skip-the-line ticket for Château de Chambord
• Priority entrance ticket to Chenonceau Castle
• Château Royal d’Amboise Entrance Ticket
• Chateau de Blois Entry Ticket

Alternatively, you can just book this full-day Loire Valley guided tour that will take you through 3 of the above castles including wine tasting and a transfer from Paris if you don’t want to plan anything.

• Travel time: 2 hours 30 mins by train or 5 hours by car from Gare de l’Est .
• Where to stay in Colmar: Budget hotel (2 stars) | Mid-range Hotel (4 stars) | Luxury Hotel (2 stars).

Colmar is one of those cities near Paris that looks like it came out of a picture postcard.

This idyllic town with its bucolic setting will transport you back in time. The old town with its intricate, cobblestone pathways, timber-framed, colorful houses, and medieval buildings will charm their way into your heart the minute you set foot in the town.

What’s more, you ask? Well, it lies on the Alsace wine tour route along with other smaller villages in the vicinity.

If riding in a boat through the canals of Venice was on your bucket list of things to do but the crowds put you off, Colmar offers a less crowded alternative in Little Venice .

The canal area with its two dreamy bridges albeit small will offer you just as much if not a more scenic and romantic setting.

If you happen to be here around Christmas, then the Les Marchés de Noel are worth staying for.

One of the other things not to miss out on is this 2-hour Segway tour of Colmar to get a glimpse of this beautiful city in style.

14.  Normandy

• Travel time: A 2 hour 45 mins drive by car and around 2 hours 30 mins by train.

Located along the English Channel, Normandy is one of the cities close to Paris that sits on years of history (and terror in some instances)!

What sets Normandy apart compared to other closest cities to Paris is that it has a little bit of everything!

You can find stunning beaches to relax on, impressive natural landmarks and human-made monuments , castles, and museums to get lost in history, and small towns and villages to connect with the locals.

Visit the town of Étretat to the North of Normandy to enjoy a cliffside picnic while enjoying the breathtaking view of the English Channel or admire the beauty of the white chalk cliffs.

The famous D-Day beaches out of which Omaha beach is the most popular is a 1 hour 30 mins drive from Normandy if you fancy some sunbathing while learning more history about the D-day landing.

Another site worth making a trip to is the Mont Saint-Michel , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, whose abbey rises to 100m (328 ft.) tall. (Make sure you buy this entry ticket to Mont Sant Michel in advance .)

But beware, during high tide, it becomes an island accessible only by one road. The Abbey has 350 steps to the highest point but the view from there is worth the effort.

You can also explore the Museum of the Battle of Normandy to learn more about WWII, wander around Honfleur , chill on the beaches of Deauville , or visit Château de Fontaine-Henry which is the most beautiful castle in Normandy.

If you don’t want to plan a thing, you can opt for one of these tours below.

• D-Day Landing beaches day tour with transfer and lunch
• Mont Saint-Michel full-day guided tour

Final Thoughts on the Closest Cities to Paris

I hope you liked my picks of the best cities close to Paris. Of course, it’s none-exhaustive but I’d add more as explore other towns near Paris.

Let me know which of these cities around Paris you have visited or plan on visiting.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance ! You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive! Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads .

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Nontouristy things to do in Paris
• Stunning views from the Eiffel Tower
• How to plan a perfect picnic in Paris
• Big mistakes to avoid while traveling in Paris
• Things to know before traveling to Paris
• Skip the lines tickets for popular Paris attractions
• Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel tower views
• Things to do in Paris at night
• How to skip the long lines in Paris
• Best places to get stunning views of the Eiffel Tower

Was this post on the best towns and cities around Paris helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

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Esther is the face and voice behind Dreams in Paris! She has always been obsessed with Paris even before she moved there. She has lived in Paris for a couple of years, and that obsession has not changed! That love for Paris, plus her passion for writing led to the birth of Dreams in Paris! She now shares all the practical tips and guides she’s picked along the way to help you plan a memorable trip to the city of love! You can learn more about her here !

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10+ Pretty French Towns Near Paris You’ll Just Love!

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 28th October 2023

Categories France

Last Updated on 28th October 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

There’s something about the charm of French villages that just makes them so appealing. Perhaps it’s the little lanes, maybe it’s the charming architecture. I’m not sure, but of course, there’s always oodles of history just waiting to be discovered. Here are 10+ pretty French towns near Paris you’ll just love!

#2 Versailles

#4 saint-germain-en-laye, #5 chartres.

• #8 Auvers-Sur-Oise

#9 Fontainebleau

#10 rueil-malmaison, #11 chantilly, #12 chevreuse, #13 enghien-les-bains, #14 lagny-sur-marne, #15 nemours, #16 moret-sur-loing, #17 luzarches, #18 étampes, #19 montfort l’amaury, #20 marly-le-roi, #21 bougival, #22 conflans-sainte-honorine, #23 crécy-la-chapelle, #25 barbizon, france travel information, enjoyed this post pin pretty french towns near paris now, read it again later:.

Accessible via one end of the RER B, you’ll find the charming town of Sceaux . The journey from Paris’ Gare du Nord to Sceaux takes around half an hour. The French settlement near Paris is pretty as a postcard during the spring thanks to an abundance of spring blossom.

In the grounds of the Sceaux château, there’s even an entire cherry blossom orchard which blooms in April of each year. Even if you can’t visit the town during the first few months of the year, Sceaux is just as lovely throughout the rest of the seasons.

After all, there’s a château to visit, a park to wander around and plenty of eateries to be enticed by. Other things to do in Sceaux include discovering the magnificent Château that has been used as many a filming location (such as the TV series of Versailles) , and enjoying a cup of tea at Plaisirs des Thés.

There are several cities close to Paris, and undoubtedly the picturesque Versailles is the most famous of them all. Versailles also happens to be one of the closest cities to Paris.

Of course, for first (or second or third) time visitors to Paris, you can’t visit the twinkling city of lights and not make the (at least) half day trip out of the city to see Versailles .

After all, outside of Paris proper, it’s one of the main attractions that the Île de France region has to offer. Aside from the grand palace, there’s an entire town to be discovered, with plenty of museums, cafés, and quirky architecture.

For example, did you know that the game of Tennis partly finds its origins in Versailles? Or that in the autumn months you can go fruit picking in Versailles ? Versailles is also home to some pretty wonderful museums, as well as several delightful bookshops.

Book now: Versailles by Train Tour From Paris with Skip-The-Line

An hour drive from the centre of Paris, you’ll find the charming town of Senlis.  This French commune sits fondly in my memory as a place with plenty of history and oodles of sunshine as I visited on my Birthday a couple of years ago.

The town has three museums (the museum of art and archaeology, the museum of the hunts & the museum of Spahis.)  There’s also a historic abbey, the ruins of a Roman arena and a medieval cellar, all waiting to be discovered and explored…

The ancient town of Senlis also has links with French heroine, Joan of Arc.  Between the 15th and 16th of August 1429, Joan of Arc led her French troops in the historic battle of Montépilloy (close to Senlis) , leading them to victory against the English. There’s a commemorative plaque in the church celebrating her victory.

Only half an hour away on the RER A from the centre of Paris, you’ll find the sweet town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye . This town makes the list of pretty French towns near Paris not only because of its lovely architecture and wonderful eateries but also because it has a large forest and charming château (which now houses a fantastic museum of archaeology).

Aside from the museum, the château itsself is well worth a look, if only for its impressive architecture and the fact that Louis XIV was born there!

Elsewhere in Saint-Germain-en-Laye, there’s the real-life Château de Monte Cristo (Alexander Dumas’ country mansion) and Musée Claude Debussy in the iconic composer’s birthplace.

Of all the cities near Paris, Chartres is one of the top places to visit. Located in the Loire valley , Chartres is a gateway to the land of castles. Located in the Eure-et-Loire department of France, the city is best known for its impressive cathedral, oodles of medieval architecture and fascinating museums.

Since the middle ages, the town has also been the destination for many Catholic pilgrimages, meaning that there’s also a wealth of ecclesiastical buildings and history to learn about as well.

Best visited by car so as to head out to the Loire Valley (i.e. the Garden of France ) straight after your visit, Chartres is located around an hour and a half’s drive from the City of Light, meaning this city near Paris is definitely worth a visit.

Book now: Chartres Cathedral and Old Town: 6-Hour Tour from Paris

Provins is a fully preserved medieval town just under an hour away from the city centre of Paris. Although a little further away from the city than some of the other pretty French towns near Paris, Provins is well worth the (slightly) longer journey.

After all, it’s not every day that you get the chance to visit a basilica where Joan of Arc attended mass, or that you get the opportunity to climb a medieval tower dating all the way back to the 12th-century.

Elsewhere in Provins, there are medieval tunnels with a mysterious history. During winter, a fantastic Christmas market is held in the ancient city on an annual basis during an advent weekend in December that makes for the perfect day trip from Paris.

Around 40 minutes away from the centre of Paris, you’ll find Meaux . Famous for its Brie and Mustard (although little-known is that much of the Meaux Brie is now fabricated in the Lorraine region of France).

If you’re not a great foodie, then Meaux offers plenty of other historical and cultural activities. There are plenty of outdoor fun for those who want to experience life in France outside of Paris in the form of walks, water activities, and hiking.

In Meaux, you’ll also find the Musée de la Grande Guerre (Museum of the Great War) which is one of the biggest museums about WWI in all of Europe, if not the world.

Those who are looking to escape into a little nature during their time out of Paris might also consider the walk along the Canal de Meaux à Chalifert , especially during the summer when a stroll alongside the water is particularly pleasant.

#8 Auvers-S ur -Oise

Some of the towns which form the ‘Paris countryside’ as it were, still lack in green space, much like the French capital itself. However, the commune of Auvers-Sur-Oise is surrounded by rolling green hills.

What’s more is that Auvers-sur-Oise even has its own château (which is open to the public and can be visited for a fee) . Those looking for small villages near Paris won’t be disappointed with the bucolic charm of this countryside settlement.

Head to Auvers-Sur-Oise to learn all about the infamous drink absinthe in the absinthe museum, and to trace the footsteps of Van Gogh who lived here for a few months before his death. It’s even possible to visit the final place where the famous artist once resided.

In the town’s cemetery, you’ll find the final resting place of the great artist himself as well as the grave of Van Gogh’s brother Theo.

In the rest of the town there are trails inspired by Van Gogh’s final paintings. A day trip to Auvers-Sur-Oise can easily be combined with a trip to nearby L’Isle Adam , a charming town with its own sandy beach.

Book now: Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise Full-Day Tour from Paris

Beautiful countryside near Paris is never too far away thanks to fantastic transport links in the Île de France region. And with a pretty castle to rival Versailles, Fontainebleau definitely can’t be missed off the list.

After all, the château is easily one of the most fairytale-like day trips from the city of love. “Versailles without the crowds” is one of the best ways to describe the château, and the town is equally as magical…

Apart from the castle, you can wander through the great forest (which was used as hunting grounds for the French royal family in the 12th-Century) and visit the charming house museum of Musee Stephane Mallarme. So as to save time during your visit, book your Fontainebleau tickets here in advance prior to your trip.

Book now: Fontainebleau & Vaux-le-Vicomte Châteaux Day Tour from Paris

Situated on RER line A, Rueil-Malmaison is only around thirty minutes from the centre of Paris, making it one of the top places near Paris to visit. Complete with a French Château, it’s the epitome of a typical French town.

The Château here was once the official residence of Empress Josephine, wife of Napoleon, meaning that chances are when you’re wandering through the property, you’ll be walking in the very steps that the empress herself walked in.

The rest of the town is full of bakeries, patisseries and located along the Seine (which is lovely to go for a cycle along or to go for a quick jog along on a warm summer’s evening), in Rueil-Malmaison you’ll find plenty of small churches and museums. Of all the pretty French towns day trips from Paris, Rueil-Malmaison may well be the most underrated…

Easily one of the most underrated towns which can be reached as a short day trip from Paris, Chantilly is a magical settlement which is just twenty minutes from Gare du Nord ( should you opt to take the fast train).

A quintessentially French town with plenty of bars, restaurants, and independent shops, Chantilly also happens to be home to a magical Château which boasts the second largest art collection in France, as well as grounds which inspired Marie Antoinette’s Hameau de La Reine at Versailles.

The charming French town of Chevreuse . It’s the kind of settlement you see in the movies. And the type of place you’d think no longer exists. But it does. And it’s totally worth your time since it’s one of the most beautiful towns near Paris.

The fairytale town is located in the Île de France region, south of Paris and is overlooked by the haunting ruins of a medieval château. Wander through the town itself and you’ll soon discover a gently flowing river which you can walk along while admiring many a traditional French garden.

Just a short drive away the the beautiful Monastic remains and chapel of  Port-Royal-des-Champs Abbey  are well worth a visit, provided that you have access to a car.

Otherwise, heading to Chevreuse by taking the RER B train to St Remy Les Chevreuse and walking the half an hour or so to reach Chevreuse itself is more than worth the trek out from Paris.

For a taste of Deauville  (the Normandy resort town)  on the fringes of Paris, you simply need to visit Enghien-les-Bains, à spa settlement which has been populated since at least the Middle Ages and perhaps even earlier.

Though the main highlights of the lakeside town is its casino (one of the largest and most popular in all of l’Hexagone) , the other draw of Enghein-les-Bains is that it’s situated just a ten-minute train ride away from Gare du Nord and yet feels as if it’s a world away.

A particular joy in visiting Enghien-les-Bains, is walking the 3.3 km walk around the lake and soaking up the unusual architectural features and pretty gardens en route. Make sure to bring a picnic and visit on a sunny day so as to enjoy a quiet moment halfway through the walk!

Weeping willows line the banks of the Marne, a lazy flowing river along which you’ll find a hidden gem of a town in the form of Lagny-sur-Marne . And though the Île-de-France settlement is situated just under 30 km to the East of intra-muros Paris, even many Parisians don’t know of its existence.

Nemours is rather unique in that it lays claim to being the only town within the Île de France region to boast a château in the very heart of the town.

Situated an hour away from the city from the Gare de Lyon station in Paris, other highlights of this charming French town include a prehistory museum, plenty of riverside walks, and a church with an unusual wooden spire.

A particularly charming town which can be visited as a day trip from Paris and one that I only discovered recently is that of Moret-Sur-Loing . Roughly a fifty minute train ride away from the French capital from the Gare de Lyon station, the town is home to a medley of medieval structures and architecture.

The town was also once the haunt and home of Alfred Sisley, the English painter and artist, who painted many a scene of the picturesque town.

Other highlights of Moret-sur-Loing include admiring the medieval walls of the town, buying local sweets (the Sucre d’Orge is a local speciality), and taking a countryside walk along one of the many nearby rivers and tributaries.

Yet another charming off the beaten path town that can easily be visited as a day trip from Paris is that of Luzarches, a delightful French settlement with several medieval remnants, including a gateway you can walk through and a fairly large church that can be visited for free throughout the week.

A charming medieval town which was once used by royalty, Étampes is located around an hour away from Paris on the RER. The first attestation of the city of Étampes goes all the way back to the 7th-century.

However, the town close by to Paris did not gain true prominence until the 12th-century, when a council hosted in the town recognised Innocent II as the legitimate and true pope. Today, the charming French settlement has over two dozen historic monuments.

If you have access to a car then one of the most beautiful and lesser known towns you can visit as a day trip from Paris is that of Montfort L’Amaury.

Though slightly smaller than some of the other French settlements on this list, once in Montfort L’Amaury you’ll soon discover why even Victor Hugo fell in love with the place on a visit during his early 20s.

Situated over 40km to the West of Paris, the medieval town is characterised by its centuries old church and charming timber-framed houses.

Châteaux lovers will also be delighted to discover that the romantic ruins of the 12th-century Tour d’Anne de Bretagne, while fans of ecclesiastical architecture will be interested in the Renaissance stained glass windows of the church of Saint Pierrre.

One of the more off the beaten path towns near Paris is that of Marly-le-Roi, which is around half an hour from Paris’ Saint-Lazare. The town is historically known as it was the former site of the Château Marly which was one of King Louis XIV’s (The Sun King) favourite leisure residences.

Though the Château was destroyed during the French Revolution, much of the former grounds have been transformed into a park, Marly-le-Roi National Estate and Park, which visitors can enjoy wandering around for free.

If you’re looking for a pretty town that is incredibly close to Paris and can be reached in around an hour from the city centre, then Bougival is the place to head to.

Situated to the West of the French capital, highlights of Bougival include the chance to follow in the footsteps of the impressionists, meander along picturesque waterways, and shop at plenty of independent stores and boutiques.

Of all the small towns near Paris that are worth visiting, Conflans-Sainte-Honorine is one of the most beautiful. Lying lazily alongside the River Seine, the charming settlement boasts a medieval past, a charming port, and several fantastic eateries.

One of the more unusual things to do in the area is to check out the chapel barge. As its name would suggest, this is a place of worship on a literal early 20th-century boat which has since been transformed into a church barge.

Elsewhere in Conflans, the medieval church is beautiful and boasts the remnants of centuries old murals, while the donjon offers views over the rest of the settlement. What’s more is that Conflans-Sainte-Honorine can easily be reached via the RER A or the line J from Saint-Lazare.

A quiet and secluded town to the east of the French capital, even many Parisians likely haven’t heard of the existence of  Crécy-la-Chapelle , a sleepy town situated around 40 km from Paris and self-proclaimed to be the  ‘Venice of Brie’ o n account of its many ringed moats.

Though there is little by way of attractions in Crécy-la-Chapelle, highlights of the little town in Île de France include a Collegiate church which is one of the most impressive in the region, several historic buildings, and plenty of charming streets.

If you love art and heading off the beaten tourist track, then Yerres is a no brainer. This delightful little town is situated around half an hour away from Paris’ Gare de Lyon and was the birthplace of none other than Gustave Caillebotte, a 19th-century impressionist painter.

I first visited Yerres on a sunny afternoon in late July. We had escaped the intense heat of the city for a few hours and I loved soaking up the non-touristy afternoon by strolling around the park and following in the footsteps of Gustave Caillebotte.

You won’t need more than a couple of hours to discover Yerres, making it an easy side trip from Paris if you don’t have very much time spare.

Though a little more complicated to reach via public transportation, one of my favourite small towns close to Paris is the delightful village of Barbizon . This sleepy little village rose to particular prominence during the 19th-century as it gained popularity among artists.

Today, you can visit the village frozen in time, which consists of a few criss-crossed streets on the fringes of the Fontainebleau forest. There are a smattering of museums and cafés in town, and it’s an altogether lovely place to spend a quiet afternoon.

France uses the Euro (€)

The main language spoken in France is French . Though you can get by with English is more touristic places, it’s always a good idea to learn some of the local language. Bring along a simple phrasebook like this one to help make your travels easier.

The capital of France is Paris . For more information and inspiration, check out our best Paris travel tips.

France uses plug types, types C and E. As such, if you’re travelling from the UK, USA, Canada, and many other destinations, you’ll need to buy an adapter. I recommend buying  a universal travel adapter  that you can use for multiple destinations (rather than buying a new adaptor for each place you visit).

As one of the most popular destinations in the world, you should always consider booking your accommodation well ahead of time. Check out this website for price comparison details and detailed reviews.

Be careful with your belongings. I also highly advise to avoid wearing a backpack and to instead opt for a crossbody bag  like these ones .  I personally use a crossbody bag  by this brand  and love its shape, size, and versatility.

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

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Wednesday 22nd of June 2022

France is beautiful every where, from trees to buildings, from coffee to fruits, it is gentle and relaxing. I always like to visit, but really no where I like better than 16th Arr in Paris. Though I live an ocean away, but Paris is my other home too.

Carolyn Boehne

Sunday 1st of May 2022

While a Teen in 1958, I dined in Montfort L’Amaury and have never forgotten L’Auberge de la Moutier. It had the most magnificent tree growing right in the dining area.

Queen Elizabeth 2 had been there not long before I, lol since she was only crowned in 1952 .

Does anyone know if this delightful place still exists as I am finally returning to Paris after many decades!

Sophie Nadeau

Thursday 12th of May 2022

I did a short bit of research and La Moutière was transformed into a guest house in 2011. Unfortunately, it seems to have since closed down.

Wednesday 23rd of September 2020

So nice to read about neighbouring towns close to Paris... my daughter just bought a beautiful enormous house in Louveciennes... some cosmetic Reno to do .. it has a private gate entrance just beautiful...can’t wait to go visit the grandkids. ❤️

Sunday 18th of November 2018

Sceaux is also really beautiful!

Monday 20th of November 2017

I wish I had know about more of these when I was in Paris last month! I guess I'll just have to go back to France to see them!

• France Guides
• August 14, 2022

12 France Destinations (Outside of Paris)

When most people think of France, they immediately think of Paris. While Paris is an amazing city and worth a visit, there are so many other great places to see in France! From the stunningly beautiful Bordeaux to the historic city of Lyon, there is something for everyone in this European country. Here are 12 France destinations that are worth a visit!

1. Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France is a beautiful city with a lot to offer visitors. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the architecture is stunning. There are also plenty of great restaurants and bars, as well as shops and markets.

The city is also home to some of the best wines in the world . Bordeaux is an easy city to get around, and there are plenty of things to do and see. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy some good food and wine, Bordeaux is worth a visit.

2. Marseille

Marseille is the second-largest city in France and one of the oldest cities in Europe. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea, Marseille has a long history as a major trading port. Today, it is known for its vibrant culture and diverse population.

Visitors to Marseille can enjoy a variety of activities to do, including exploring the city’s historic sites, visiting the Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations, or taking a boat ride to the nearby islands. Whatever your interests, you’re sure to find something to enjoy in Marseille.

If you’re looking for a European destination that has it all, then look no further than Lyon, France. This beautiful city is located at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone Rivers and is known for its historical architecture, stunning scenery, and delicious food.

Visitors can explore the city’s many museums and art galleries, or take a stroll through one of its numerous parks. And of course, no trip to Lyon would be complete without sampling some of the city’s renowned cuisine.

From savory dishes like quenelles and coq au vin to sweet treats like marrons glacés and baba au rhum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Lyon today!

4. Toulouse

Toulouse is a beautiful city in the south of France that is often called the “pink city” because of the distinctive reddish-orange bricks used in many of its buildings. The city is home to some historical landmarks, including the Basilica of Saint Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe, and the Place du Capitole, a masterful example of 18th-century architecture.

Toulouse is also known for its cuisine, with specialties like cassoulet, a hearty dish made with beans, pork, and duck. And of course, no visit to Toulouse would be complete without tasting some of the local wine! Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Toulouse has something to offer everyone. So plan your trip today and experience all that this fascinating city has to offer!

There’s no place like Nice, France! This beautiful city is located on the French Riviera and is known for its stunning scenery, lovely weather, and fabulous food.

Visitors to Nice can enjoy plenty of activities, from exploring the Old Town to sunbathing on the beach. Plus, there are plenty of great places to eat and drink, so you can indulge in the local culture. So if you’re looking for a wonderful place to visit, be sure to add Nice, France to your list!

6. Montpellier

Montpellier is a beautiful city in the south of France that is well worth a visit. The historic center is a delight to wander, with its quaint streets and 18th-century architecture. The city also has several excellent museums, including the Musee Fabre, which houses an outstanding collection of paintings by French masters.

And of course, no visit to Montpellier would be complete without enjoying some of the fabulous food and wine for which the region is known. From Michelin-starred restaurants to atmospheric cafes and lively markets, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the very best of French cuisine.

So if you’re looking for a city that combines culture, history, and gastronomy, be sure to put Montpellier on your list.

Nantes is a beautiful city in France that is worth a visit! There is so much to see and do, from exploring the historic center to enjoying the many parks and gardens. The city is also home to a number of museums, including the Musée des beaux-arts de Nantes and the Musée d’histoire de Nantes.

Of course, no visit to Nantes would be complete without trying some of the local cuisines. The city is known for its delicious seafood, so be sure to sample some while you’re there! With so much to offer, Nantes is sure to please everyone.

Lille is a beautiful city in northern France that is well worth a visit. The city center is full of charming medieval buildings and winding cobbled streets, while the nearby Old Town is home to some museums and art galleries.

Lille is also a great place to shop, with a large selection of boutiques and shops selling everything from fashion to food. And of course, no trip to Lille would be complete without trying some of the local cuisine, which includes specialties such as potjevleesch (a type of ham and chicken pate) and waterzooi (a chicken and vegetable stew).

So if you’re looking for a city that has it all, be sure to add Lille to your list!

9. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a city located in northeastern France, right on the border with Germany. It is the capital of the Grand Est region and has a population of just over 275,000 people. The city is famous for its beautiful architecture, with many buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.

In addition, Strasbourg is home to the European Parliament and the Council of Europe, making it an important political center. Visitors to the city can explore its historic center, which has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site or take a cruise on the River Ill to enjoy views of the city’s landmarks.

With so much to see and do, Strasbourg is an ideal destination for a weekend getaway.

Rennes is the capital of Brittany, a region in northwestern France. This vibrant city is known for its lively student population, medieval architecture, and beautiful parks. There’s plenty to see and do in Rennes, from exploring the old town to strolling through the botanical gardens.

And of course, no visit to Rennes would be complete without sampling some of the local cuisines. From savory crepes to sweet cider, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city. So why not plan a visit and see for yourself what Rennes has to offer?

There’s so much to see in Reims, France! The historic city is home to beautiful architecture, including the renowned cathedral, and is also the site of several important events in French history.

Visitors can explore the many museums and galleries, or take a stroll through the picturesque streets. And of course, no visit to Reims would be complete without sampling some of the delicious Champagne that the region is famous for!

Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or just want to enjoy some good food and wine, Reims is worth a visit.

12. Le Havre

Le Havre is a bustling port city located on the northwestern coast of France. The city is home to a variety of interesting attractions, including the Cathedrale Notre Dame, the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and the Jardin Public.

Visitors can also enjoy a stroll along the waterfront, where they can admire the numerous boats and yachts that line the harbor. Le Havre is a lively city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re looking for culture, relaxation, or simply a change of scenery, a visit to Le Havre is sure to leave you with lasting memories.

In conclusion

There are so many great destinations to visit in France outside of Paris! From the charming medieval city of Lille to the bustling port of Le Havre, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a trip and explore all that France has to offer? You’re sure to create lasting memories and have a great time.

We are here out of a desire to help and of course out of a great love for France. Our goal is to help you find everything you are looking for under one roof, to get the most out of your vacation in France, without having to travel all over the web.

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Home > Side Trips from Paris > These Are the Best Small Towns Near Paris that You Cannot Miss!

These Are the Best Small Towns Near Paris that You Cannot Miss!

Explore the french countryside near paris.

Paris is a great city, with many exciting things to see and do. But it can also be a busy and crowded city, and after some days of sightseeing from dawn till dusk, you may need a break.

Luckily, the countryside near Paris is stunning, and there are many picturesque small towns near Paris perfect for getting out in the fresh air and seeing a different side of France. Most of these small towns and villages near Paris make excellent day trips by train.

So if you are doing great visiting Paris and have an extra day in the city, why don’t you give a chance to some of these cute towns? Here’s the list of the best small towns near Paris to visit during your next trip to the French capital. The list also includes a couple of suggestions on where to stay outside Paris with direct train connections to the city.

READ MORE: Click here for the best weekend getaways from Paris by train

Best Way to Explore the Paris Countryside

1. By Train

Most of the Paris countryside is easily reached by train. SNCF , the French rail network, links all the cities and main towns and villages in rural France.

Generally, trains are on time, comfortable, relatively cheap, and my favorite way to explore the best towns outside of Paris. If you are also concerned about your carbon footprint and want to reduce it, trains are the best way to go around – Check out this guide to France by Train

2. By Guided Tour

A guided tour is not the cheapest option, but it is definitely the most comfortable. Forget about planning, entrance tickets, or train schedules; just hop on a coach or minivan and enjoy your day!

Usually, guided tours include transportation, skip-the-line tickets (when applicable), and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide, making the place or attraction even more enjoyable. Also, half-day guided tours are perfect for people with short holidays in Paris but who still want to see more than the French capital.

Best Guided Tours to Visit the Paris Countryside

Cars are the best option for exploring the countryside near Paris, especially the villages that are a bit off the beaten path – Check out this quick guide to driving in France

If you need to rent a car, I recommend choosing a car rental office located on the outskirts of Paris. They usually have better prices, and you avoid the hassle of driving through the city. You can reach the rental office by metro and avoid the traffic jams in Paris!

I use and recommend DiscoverCars.com . DiscoverCars compares 900 companies at over 53,000 locations to guarantee you the best price. Click here for our best tips for renting a car in France .

Map of the Best Small Towns Near Paris to Visit

Click here to view this map of small towns near Paris on Google

TIP: I listed these small towns to visit near Paris by region. Click here to read more about the regions of France.

Best Towns Near Paris (Ile-de-France Region)

Provins is one of the best medieval towns near Paris to visit. It is located 70 km southeast of Paris and it makes a great day trip from Paris by train.

In Medieval times, Provins was the capital of the powerful Counts of Champagne. Thanks to the Counts’ protection and its strategic location, the town became one of the main actors in the early development of international trade fairs and the wool industry in Europe during the 9th to 18th centuries.

Walking around medieval Provins is like stepping back in time! The town is surrounded by impressive walls, and the half-timbered houses are beautiful to see. Provins is especially known for its medieval fair , usually held in June, and unique underground galleries that you can visit with a guided tour.

What to Do in Provins:

• Sightseeing
• Provins’ Medieval Fairs and Medieval Christmas Market

HOW TO GO FROM PROVINS TO PARIS

By Train: Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de l’Est train station to Provins (1 hr 22 min, hourly).

By Car:  Paris to Provins is a 91 km drive which takes around 1 hr 13 min, depending on the traffic.

EXTEND YOUR TRIP

There’s so much to see and do in Provins that it may be a good idea to spend one night in this beautiful medieval town – Click here for the best hotels in Provins

2. Versailles

Versailles is one of the best small cities near Paris, world-renowned for its magnificent Château . It is located 21 km southwest of Paris, in the region of Ile-de-Franc e.

If this is your first visit to Versailles, I recommend visiting the Château , but you can also decide to spend all your time exploring the Gardens of Versailles or other parts of the city.

The list of the best things to do in Versailles , apart from the Château, includes the King’s Kitchen Garden , the Academy of Equestrian Arts , the Carriage Museum , and the Chuch of Notre Dame . The local market, not far from the château, is also fun to explore.

What to Do in Versailles:

• Versailles by bike , boat riding in the Grand Canal
• Fountains of Versailles shows
• Classic music concerts

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO VERSAILLES

All the ways, public and private, to travel from Paris to Versailles

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO VERSAILLES

Get the most out of your day in Versailles with this top-rated tour with a private guide and transportation . Visit the Palace of Versailles and the Trianons with an expert guide and stroll through the impressive gardens.

There’s so much to see and do in Versailles Estate that it may be a good idea to spend one night on-site, especially if you want to visit the Saturday night Fountain Show – Click here for the best hotels near Versailles Palace

3. Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is a cute town near Paris with a lovely historical center. Located 25km southeast of Paris in the Ile-de-France region, Fontainebleau is surrounded by the large Forest of Fontainebleau.

For many centuries, the Forest of Fontainebleau was the French Kings’ favorite hunting place, and they built a magnificent castle to get the most out of Fontainebleau.

The Château de Fontainebleau is one of the best castles near Paris . Known as “the true home of the French Kings,” its different rooms and halls are grand and magnificent! After visiting the Château, explore the surrounding gardens and the Old Town.

What to Do in Fontainebleau:

• Château de Fontainebleau and Gardens
• Hiking and bouldering in the Fontainebleau Forest
• Hot air balloon over the Fontainebleau Forest

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO FONTAINEBLEAU

By Train:  Direct trains Paris – Fontainebleau leave from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon train station (40 min, every 20 min). Once you arrive at Fontainebleau train station, a bus shuttle waits outside to reach the Château (12 min ride).

By Car: Paris to Fontainebleau is a 69 km drive which takes around 48 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO FONTAINEBLEAU

This Fontainebleau + Vaux-le-Vicomte guided tour is a great option. This tour visits two of the most beautiful castles near Paris with explanations by an English professional guide. The tour includes transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle and skip-the-line entrance tickets for both châteaux.

4. Barbizon

Barbizon is a cute village near Paris, nestled in the Forest of Fontainebleau. Barbizon is located 60km southeast of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Barbizon was home to the “Barbizon School,” a group of 19th-century French painters, including Théodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet. This movement was born from certain artists’ wishes to represent unspoiled nature.

After visiting Château de Fontainebleau, Barbizon is a lovely place to go for a good meal followed by a stroll. Admire its charming stone houses, restored inns, and workshops. Enjoy its flowery walls and the heady smell of turpentine. Art lovers will enjoy the Barbizon School Museum, Millet’s studio, and numerous art galleries.

The Auberge Ganne is where penniless painters without money often shared the same rooms and drew on the walls to perfect their lines. The evenings in this modest inn always ended up late, with everybody heavily drunk. Even today, visitors can immerse themselves in this era which saw the birth of the very idea of ​​the romantic painter in search of pure and beautiful nature.  

What to Do in Barbizon:

• Eat & Drink
• Biking and hiking

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO BARBIZON

By Train + Bus:  Direct trains Paris – Fontainebleau leave from Paris Gare de Ly o n to Fontainebleau-Avon train station (40 min, every 20 min). Once you arrive at Fontainebleau train station, take bus #21 to Angelus (22 min ride).

Fontainebleau, it’s a mere 10km bike ride to Barbizon (one way). You can rent a bike in Fontainebleau.

By Car: Paris to Fontainebleau is a 70 km drive which takes around 40 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO BARBIZON

This Fontainebleau + Barbizon full-day private guided tour is a great option. The tour includes pick up and drop off at your accommodation in Paris, transportation in a luxury van, a professional guide, and entrance tickets to the Château of Fontainebleau.

5. Moret-Sur-Loing

If you are interested in beautiful villages near Paris far from the tourist circuits, you’ll love Moret-sur-Loing . Moret is located on the eastern side of the Fontainebleau Forest, 77km southeast of Paris in the Ile-de-France region.

One of the cutest villages near Paris to visit, Moret-sur-Loing has a beautiful medieval heritage and a couple of interesting museums. It is also an excellent place for outdoor activities like kayaking, biking, or hiking.

Moret-sur-Loing was home to the impressionist painter Alfred Sisley, who found in Moret the source of inspiration for many of his masterworks. The Tourism Office in Moret offers a self-guided walking tour itinerary to see all the spots that inspired the painter.

Things to Do in Moret Sur Loing:

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO MORET-SUR-LOING

By Train:  Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de Lyon to Moret-Veneux-Les Sablons train station (48 min, every 30 min). Once you arrive at Moret-Veneux-Les Sablons train station, there is a 15-minute walk to Moret-sur-Loing.

By Car: Paris to Moret-sur-Loing is a 77 km drive which takes around 58 min, depending on the traffic.

6. Auvers-sur-Oise

If you are looking for beautiful towns around Paris with some history, Auvers-sur-Oise is the place to go. Auvers-Sur-Oise is located 35 km north of Paris and is known as the Impressionists’ Village because it attracted many artists by the end of the 19th century. People like Cézanne, Pissarro, Sisley, and Monet lived or frequented Auvers-Sur-Oise and painted the village in some of their masterworks.

But most of all, Auvers-Sur-Oise is known for being Vincent Van Gogh’s last home.  Van Gogh discovered Auvers by the end of his life, and although he lived in the village for less than two months, he painted 70 works in Auvers, most of them related to the village and its landscapes.

Here, there is a lovely self-guided walk, The Painters’ Pathway , which visits several views appearing in some Impressionist paintings. You can also see the room at Auberge Ravoux , where Van Gogh lived and passed away, the famous Church at Auvers, and Van Gogh’s tomb in the local cemetery.

What to Do in Auvers-sur-Oise

• Nature walks
• A special place for Van Gogh’s fans!

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO AUVERS-SUR-OISE

By Train:  Trains from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise leave from Paris Gare du Nord. It is a 41-minute ride (one way) from Paris to Auvers.

By Car:  Paris to Auvers-Sur-Oise is a 33 km drive that takes around 28 minutes, depending on traffic.

7. Marly-Le-Roi

Marly-le-Roi is one of the small villages near Paris worth visiting. It is located 20km west of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Marly was the location of Château de Marly , the famous leisure residence of King Louis XIV, which was more intimate than Versailles and far from the court etiquette. Only a few people had the honor to be the King’s guests at Marly, and they were appointed directly by King Louis XIV a few days before the departure.

The Château de Marly was totally destroyed after the French Revolution. However, a few remains are left, and the surrounding park still keeps its original waterways, lawns, and sculptures.

In Marly-le-Roi, you may also want to visit Alexandre Dumas’ home, the Château de Montecristo , and its park. This beautiful and intriguing castle is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the writer’s life and work.

Things to Do in Marly-Le-Roi:

• Stroll around the gardens and the remains of the Royal Palace
• Picnic in the Park
• Visit the Château de Montecristo

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO MARLY-LE-ROI

By Train: There are many direct trains from La Défense to Marly-le-Roi. To reach La Défense train station, take the RER A or the Parisian metro line 1. Then take train L towards St Nom la Bretèche train station (1hr, every 20 min).

By Car:  Paris to Marly-le-Roi is a 25 km drive which takes around 23 min, depending on the traffic.

8. Bougival

Bougival is one of the best towns near Paris with direct train connections to the capital. It is located 17km west of Paris in the Ile-de-France region.

During the 19th century, the Impressionists chose this peaceful place by the Seine River as their favorite open-air workshop. People like Monet , Sisley, or Berthe Morisot spent long periods in this village trying to catch the beauty of the river and its banks, and soon Bougival’s landscapes became the subject of some of their masterworks.

Visit Bougival’s picturesque historic center, with its beautiful Romanesque-style church, before heading to the Seine River’s banks to follow the Impressionist Walk . This walk has real-scale panels showing reproductions of famous Impressionist paintings at the exact point where the painters found inspiration.

In Bougival, you will also find the remains of the Machine of Marly . This intriguing machine, built under the rule of King Louis XIV, transported water from the Seine River up to Versailles to feed the Fountains of Versailles ! At that time, the Machine de Marly was considered the eighth-world wonder.

Things to Do in Bougival:

• Seine River walks
• The remains of the Machine of Marly

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO BOUGIVAL

By Train: There are many direct trains from La Défense to Bougival train station. To reach La Défense train station, take the RER A or the Parisian metro line 1. Then take train L towards St Nom la Bretèche train station (1hr, every 20 min). Bougival is the train station before Marly-le-Roi, so you can visit both places on the same day.

By Car:  Paris to Bougival i is a 15 km drive which takes around 14 min, depending on the traffic.

9. Montfort L’Amaury

Montfort l’Amaury is one of the best villages near Paris to visit. Monfort is located 45km west of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Despite its small size, Montfort has an interesting heritage. The historical center still maintains its medieval layout, and the streets around the church are populated by many beautiful half-timbered houses.

We arrived at Montfort L’Amaury following Victor Hugo’s steps. The famous French writer discovered this place when he was 23, and he wrote a beautiful ode to Monfort’s ruins (Tour d’Anne de Bretagne) ‘Aux Ruines de Montfort l’Amaury:’

• Je vous aime, ô débris ! Et surtout quand l’automne
• Prolonge en vos échos sa plainte monotone. Sous vos abris croulants je voudrais habiter, | Vieilles tours, que le temps l’une vers l’autre incline.
• Et qui semblez de loin sur la haute colline, |Deux noirs géants prêts à lutter.

The list of interesting sites in Monfort l’Amaury includes the 12th-century fortified castle ( Tour Anne de Bretagne ), the impressive Saint Pierre Church (15th-16th centuries), and the old cemetery with a beautiful covered gallery. The French composer Maurice Ravel lived in Montfort for 16 years, and it is possible to visit his house ( Le Belvedère ), where he composed the famous Boléro.

Things to Do in Montfort L’Amaury

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO MONTFORT L’AMAURY

By Train + Bicycle: Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de Montparnasse to Montfort Méré train station. From the train station, there is a 3.6 km walk to Montfort l’Amaury. You can take your bicycle on the train (or rent one in Paris) and explore Monfort by bike starting from the train station.

By Car: The easiest way to visit Montfort l’Amaury is by car. Paris to Montfort l’Amaury is a 50 km drive that takes around 35 minutes, depending on the traffic.

10. Chevreuse

La Haute Vallée de la Chevreuse is a hiking paradise with the perfect mix of nature walks and cultural heritage. If you are looking for day trips in the French countryside near Paris, you are going to love Chevreuse , a small village nestled in the Valley. Chevreuse is located 34km southwest of Paris in the region of Ile-de-France.

Chevreuse is dominated by the Château de la Madelaine, a beautiful fortified castle (11th century) on the top of a hill with panoramic views of the Valley. This village near Paris is also known for its  Chemin des Petits Ponts along one of the legs of the Yvette River . This picturesque pedestrian walk is lined with old laundries, tanneries, and watermills.

Things to do in Chevreuse:

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO CHEVREUSE

By Train: We usually visit Chevreuse on an (18 km) day hike, starting at La Verrière train station and ending at St Rémy La Chevreuse train station. If you want to visit the town of Chevreuse only, take RER B to Saint Rémy La Chevreuse train station (45 min, hourly), and from there, there is a 3 km walk to Chevreuse.

By Car:  Paris to Chevreuse is a 34 km drive which takes around 40 min, depending on the traffic.

11. La Roche-Guyon

If you are looking for unique villages near Paris to visit, consider La Roche-Guyon , on the right bank of the Seine River. La Roche-Guyon is located 72km northwest of Paris, and this is the only village in the region of Ile de France with the “Most Beautiful Villages of France” label.

In the 19th century, La Roche-Guyon was a holiday resort that saw many artists and writers. This picturesque village near Paris is known for its intriguing 12th-century castle. The keep, built on the top of the hill, is connected to the main building through a 100-step underground staircase dug into the side of the plateau, and it offers panoramic views of the village and the Seine Valley.

The Kitchen Garden is another interesting place to visit in La Roche-Guyon . This French-style vegetable garden was created in the 18th century by the La Rochefoucauld family, the castle’s owners. This family shared the ideas of the physiocrats and encyclopaedists, and they wanted for their château a scientific and experimental garden rather than a pleasure garden.

Things to Do in La Roche-Guyon

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO LA ROCHE GUYON

By Train+Bus:  La Roche-Guyon is not easy to reach by public transportation, but nothing is impossible! Take a train from Paris Saint Lazare Train Station to Gare de Bonnières (47 min, every 4 hours). The next step is to take a bus from Gare Routière Bonnières to Petit Pont station (9 min, every 4 hours).

By Car:  Paris to La Roche-Guyon is a 72 km drive which takes around 53 min, depending on the traffic.

Beautiful Villages Near Paris (Hauts-de-France Region)

12. chantilly.

Chantilly is a lovely town in the Hauts-de-France region famous for its Grand Stables and beautiful château. Chantilly is an easy day trip from Paris by train, but if you are wondering where to stay outside of Paris to take the train in, Chantilly is a good option too.

The Château de Chantilly was built in the 16th century for the House of Montomercy. Later, it was owned by the princes of Condé, cousins of the King of France. The surrounding gardens are spectacular, and you can visit them with or without the Château.

In the 17th century, Les Grandes Ecuries (the Grand Stables) was built for the Prince of Condé, and they could host 240 horses and 500 hounds. Today Les Grandes Écuries hosts the Horse Museum, and it is a very reputed center of dressage for the most expensive horses in the world.  The ticket to the Horse Museum includes a very entertaining dressage show.

Since the construction of Les Grandes Écuries, the world of this small town near Paris has turned around horses. Today, Chantilly and the surrounding villages are home to the largest racehorse-training community in France. The Chantilly Racecourse (Hippodrome de Chantilly) hosts one of the most prestigious horse races in the world.

Things to Do in Chantilly:

• Racecourse in the Hippodrome de Chantilly

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO CHANTILLY

By Train:  There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux train station (30 min, hourly). From there, it’s a pleasant walk to the Château and the Grand Stables.

By Car:  Paris to Chantilly is a 42 km drive which takes around 40 min, depending on the traffic.

Because of its direct train connection with Paris, Chantilly is one of the best places to stay outside Paris to enjoy the French countryside, with easy access to Paris.

>> Click here for the best hotels in Chantilly

Senlis is one of the cute towns near Paris that you cannot miss, with a rich history and beautiful architecture. Senlis is located 42km north of Paris, in the region of Hauts-de-France.

Senlis is a royal town, the cradle of the Capet dynasty . Indeed, Hugh Capet was lord of Senlis before becoming the first French king of the House of Capet in 987. Since then and until King Henry IV, all his successors lived or spent some periods in the Royal Palace of Senlis.

Today the historical center of Senlis still keeps its medieval layout, with picturesque cobbled streets and beautiful architecture dating from the 10th-18th century. Senlis Cathedral may not be one of our favorite cathedrals in France, but no one can deny that it is imposing and probably the best remaining witness of Senlis’ power.

Senlis is also well known for its Roman heritage, and you can still see some remains of the Roman fortress and towers (3rd century) and a Gallo-Roman arena (1st century).

Things to Do in Senlis

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO SENLIS

By Train + Bus: If you want to go from Paris to Senlis by public transportation, take the train from Paris Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux train station (30 min, hourly) and then take bus #645 to Senlis (20 min ride every 30 min). The bus schedule changes often, so we recommend checking the tourism website here .

By Car:  Paris to Senlis is a 51 km drive which takes around 35 min, depending on the traffic.

You can visit Senlis on a day trip from Paris, but the town is so charming that it is worth spending one night on-site. Book one night in Senlis and use the day after to visit Chantilly, located only 10 minutes by bus from Senlis.

>> Click here for the best hotels in Senlis

14. Gerberoy

Gerberoy is one of the cutest small villages near Paris. It is located 105km northwest of Paris, and it is a dream destination for flower passionates, especially rose lovers.

Walking around this picturesque village and its gardens is an absolute delight, with its narrow cobbled streets, 17th-18th-century houses, climbing roses, wisterias, and other flowers and plants.

Gerberoy is one of the villages in Hauts-de-France with the ‘Most beautiful villages of France’ label. It is the perfect place to wander aimlessly, looking at the flowers and the small details.

Gerberoy is best known for its Rose Festival (the third weekend of June), when roses and hortensias are in full bloom.

Things to Do in Gerberoy:

• The Rose Festival in June

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO GERBEROY

By Car:  Paris to Gerberoy is a 105 km drive which takes around 1 hour 15 min, depending on the traffic.

Beautiful Towns Near Paris (Normandy Region)

15. giverny.

Giverny is one of the most famous villages near Paris, where the Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked from 1883 until he died in 1926. Giverny is located 74km northwest of Paris, in the Normandy region.

Every year thousands of visitors travel from Paris to Giverny to visit Monet’s House and Garden to admire the water lily pond that inspired Monet for many of his paintings ( click here for a quick guide ). However, Monet’s house and studio are as attractive as the gardens; they are a visual experience of different spaces, colors, and materials where the painter left nothing to chance.

Apart from Monet’s house, Giverny has a main street with cute shops, cafes, and an Impressionist Museum .

Things to Do in Giverny

• Monet’s House and Garden

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO GIVERNY

By Train + Shuttle: There is no direct train connection from Paris to Giverny. First, you need to take a train from Gare Saint Lazare to Vernon train station (1 hr, hourly), where you can take a shuttle that drops you in front of Monet’s house.

>> Click here to book your train tickets to Vernon

By Car:  Paris to Giverny is a 74 km drive which takes around 54 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO GIVERNY

If you’d rather not drive to Giverny yourself, you can take this half-day guided tour to Giverny with an expert guide that will drive you there and back in comfort.

16. Les Andelys

Les Andelys are two beautiful towns near Paris located in one of the meanders of the Seine River 90km northwest of Paris. A pleasant walk along the canal connects the two towns in the Normandy region.

Les Andelys are overlooked by the splendid ruins of Château-Gaillard . This medieval fortress was built in the 12th century under the orders of King Richard Lionheart – who was also Duke of Normandy – to protect his lands against the French King Philippe Auguste. The view from the castle (see picture above) over Les Andelys and the Seine River is terrific.

Les Andelys (and the Château Gaillard) make a nice stop, perhaps on your way to Giverny or Rouen by car. Apart from the ruins of the Château, the towns have different religious buildings from the 13th century and beautiful family houses from the 16th-19th centuries.

Things to Do in Les Andelys

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO LES ANDELYS

By Car: This is the best option to visit Les Andelys because train connections are not good. Les Andelys is a 90km drive which takes around 1 hour, depending on the traffic.

Gisors is one of the best small towns near Paris to visit for history lovers. It is located only 70 km north of the French capital, on the banks of the River Epte, in the Normandy region. 

Gisors is the historical capital of the Norman Vexin (Eure) and is well worth a visit for its picturesque architecture of old half-timbered houses and listed heritage. The town is best known for its medieval château , which is one of the best castles in Normandy . The castle was an important fortress for the English Kings – who were also Dukes of Normandy – and was built in the 11th century to help protect the region from the King of France. From the top of its keep, visitors can enjoy a superb view of the town and Epte Valley.

Other interesting things to see in Gisors are the Church of St. Gervais and St. Protais from the 12th-16th centuries, which has a remarkable Renaissance façade, a Flamboyant Gothic nave, and a radiant Gothic chancel.

What to Do in Gisors:

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO GISORS

By Train: there’s no direct train to Gisors, but nothing is lost! From Paris Gare du Nord, take the Translien train line H to Pontoise, then line J to Gisors. The total journey usually takes less than 2 hours (one way, waiting time in Pontoise included).  There’s no need to book train tickets in advance.

By Car:  Paris to Gisors by car is a 70 km drive which lasts less than 1 hour. Try to leave the French capital early in the morning to avoid the rush hours.

Cute Towns Near Paris (Centre-Val de Loire Region)

18. chartres.

Chartres is one of the most attractive big towns /small cities near Paris to visit. It is located 96 km south of Paris, in the region of Centre-Val-de-Loire.

Chartres is best known for its impressive Gothic Cathedral , one of the Grandes Cathédrales de France , and (like Amiens Cathedral or Saint-Denis Basilica-Cathedral ) an essential milestone in the evolution of Gothic Cathedrals in Europe. The Chartres Cathedral is famous for its 13th-century labyrinth designed on the pavement, the largest one built in France! Pilgrims used to walk this labyrinth seeking healing or meditation.

Apart from the magnificent Cathedral, Chartres has a cute historical center with some half-timbered houses. We suggest walking down to the River Eure where you can see pretty small houses, some of them with their private boats.

Things to Do in Chartres

• Chartres en Lumières (sound and light show)

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO CHARTRES

Chartres is one of the easiest short-day trips from Paris by train. Direct trains leave from Paris Gare de Montparnasse to Chartres Train Station every 30 minutes (1h 10min ride).

>> Click here to book your train tickets to Chartres

By Car:  Paris to Chartres is an 88.5 km drive which takes around 53 min, depending on the traffic.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO CHARTRES

Spend a relaxing day exploring the Chartres Cathedral and the medieval houses along the Eure River with this 5-hour guided tour . The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation on a private vehicle, and a knowledgeable English guide.

If you are wondering where to stay outside Paris, Chartres can be a good choice. The Chartres en Lumières Show (light show from dusk to 1 am in the summer) is a great excuse to extend your trip and spend one night in Chartres.

>> Click here for the best hotels in Chartres

Beautiful Villages Near Paris (Grand Est Region)

19. éperney & hautvillers.

If you are willing to explore the French countryside near Paris, Epernay and Hautvillers are the best towns near Paris to visit. Epernay is located 140 km southwest of Paris, in the region of Grand Est .

In the heart of the Champagne vineyards, Epernay is the capital of champagne wine. In this small town near Paris, the most luxury champagne brands, like Moët-Chandon, Vranken, Mercier, Pol Roger, or Perrier-Jouët, have their headquarters and champagne cellars.

Epernay’s main avenue, Avenue de Champagne , is considered the most expensive avenue in the world! Beautiful private mansions line up on the surface. Below the ground, kilometers of galleries house millions of bottles of the best champagne wine.

The village of Hautvilliers , north of Epernay, is also worth visiting. Here, the monk Dom Perignon developed the method of champagnisation of wine. Dom Perignon is buried inside this abbey, just in front of the main altar.

Things to Do in Epernay & Hautvillers

• Champagne tasting and shopping from small producers
• Champagne tours

HOW TO GO FROM PARIS TO EPERNAY

By Train: trains to Epernay leave Paris from Paris Gare de l’Est to Epernay train station every 2 hours (1h 15 min). If you want to add Hautvillers to your Epernay trip, we recommend taking a taxi (5km, 10 minutes drive).

>> Click here to book your train tickets to Epernay

By Car: Paris to Epernay by car is a 140 km drive which lasts about 1 hour 15 min.

BEST DAY TOUR FROM PARIS TO EPERNAY

Explore the Champagne wine-producing region with this small-group guided tour with private transportation and some tastings included. Learn the basics of champagne wine, from the growing to the tasting, and tour the House of Moët & Chandon, the world’s largest producer of champagne.

The tour also includes a visit to Reims Cathedral, where the Kings of France were crowned.

And there you have it, the list of the best small towns and other beautiful places near Paris to visit on a day trip. If you can travel further, check out this France Travel Guide

Click here for more Side Trips from Paris

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Some interesting articles in the blog

• Read our Paris for the First Time Quick Guide  here
• Find things to eat in Paris  here
• Explore the Paris Districts here

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Quirky parisian explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & our best tips learn more about us.

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The most beautiful villages near Paris

Swarming with fountains, churches, and small squares…These beautiful villages, just one or two hours from Paris by car, are the perfect escape from the city for fall weekends. 

Following in the footsteps of Claude Monet 's past life, Giverny immerses its visitors in the nature which inspired the most beautiful paintings of the master of Impressionism. From gardens teeming with flowers and ponds to the painter's former home transformed into a foundation, the place offers a striking bucolic parenthesis. Distance: 1h30 by car from Paris

Claude Monet's garden in Giverny

In the heart of Picardy, Gerberoy , with its cobbled mazes and houses climbed with wisteria, are among the most beautiful villages in France. Especially in spring, when the rose is celebrated there. The rest of the time, you stroll through its alleys lined with colorful half-timbered houses (including a famous blue color dating from 1690), on the ramparts, to discover the Charlemagne tower or the gardens of the painted Le Sidaner. Distance: 2 hours by car from Paris

A Norman flagship, Vernon has attracted travelers in search of greenery and authenticity for decades. A stone's throw from Giverny , facing the Seine, the place is particularly famous for its suspended Old Mill but also for its medieval past. Distance: 1h30 by car from Paris

By Lilah Ramzi

By Lolita Mang

Village dear to the tragedian Jean Racine , Chevreuse is one of the villages not to be missed in the Yvelines . At the foot of the Château de la Madeleine and a stone's throw from a national park, visitors can admire its stone houses which adjoin period washhouses and walk up its beautiful promenade along small bridges. Distance: 1 hour by car from Paris

Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Provins transports its visitors to a medieval setting on the outskirts of Paris. Fortified city, we discover ramparts, half-timbered houses, a keep, a priory… Change of scenery guaranteed.

Translate by Constance Caiola

More on Vogue.fr Take a virtual tour of the 30 most iconic places in France

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By Radhika Seth

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Ten Places to Travel Outside Paris

Wanting to get out of the city for a romantic getaway weekend? Planning a girls day trip? We’ve rounded up the ten best places to travel outside of Paris–places that aren’t too far and easily accessible. Get the best French getaways by visiting these charming locations – so close to the city, and rich with history – on your next trip to Paris!

Just about an hour on the RER outside of Paris, this smaller town is one of the oldest in France! Its main attraction is its cathedral (also called Notre Dame) that’s been there since the twelfth century. It’s truly like stepping back in time. Plus, the town is full of shops and delicious spots to eat. It’s the perfect place for a girl’s weekend!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Notre-Dame de Chartres (@cathedrale_de_chartres)

About two hours away from Paris is the Champangé commune, which envelops small towns in the northwest of France like Reims. Unsurprisingly, this is the area where champagne comes from! Take a wine or champagne tasting tour, visit Reims cathedral, or visit the castle of Sedan, one of the largest in Europe.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Reims, Champagne, France 🍾👑🇫🇷 (@reimstourisme)

Only 40 euros by train and two hours away from Paris is lovely Bordeaux, a small town on the water. This area is the perfect one to visit a vineyard, but if you’re not a wine lover there are plenty of museums and other things to see in the city!

GET YOUR BORDEAUX CITY GUIDE HERE: enjoy local and authentic Bordeaux with my e-book

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bordeaux Wines (@bordeauxwines)

A little closer to Paris is Versailles, home to none other than Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles. However, you don’t have to visit Versailles the way a typical tourist might! Try a bike trip with Bike About Tours!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Bike About Tours 🚲☕️ (@bikeabouttours)

Disneyland Paris

If you have kids or even if you’re just a kid at heart, Disneyland is a great place to spend a day. This time of year, it’s always seasonally decorated so if you’re wanting to get into the holiday spirit, this is the place for you!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Where Magic Gets Real ✨ (@disneylandparis)

Just about two hours from Paris, Giverny was home to Claude Monet for a period of time. If you’re a fan of impressionism, you can see some of his work in a small museum dedicated to the Impressionist movement or visit his house while you’re there!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Paris City Vision (@pariscityvision)

Mont Saint-Michel

Off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is a small island that boasts a small town and the Gothic church that partially inspired the castle in the 2010 animated film Tangled . From Paris, the RER train ride is about five hours, but the view once you get there is most definitely worth it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Le Mont Saint-Michel (@montsaintmichel.off)

Normandy itself is a great place to visit, situated in the North of France and about two and a half hours away from Paris. Not only can you visit Mont Saint-Michel, but you can also visit the beaches of Normandy, stormed during World War II and the memorial to those that died. The town itself and the views are enough to merit this trip.

Loire Valley

Once home to those such as Leonardo da Vinci, the Loire Valley is situated in central France, about two hours away from Paris. Visit the Chateau de Chambord or the Chateau de Chenonceau before stopping at one of the many vineyards famous to the Loire.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Loire Valley Wines (@loirevalleywine)

Chateau de Fontainebleau

About an hour outside of Paris is Chateau de Fontainebleau, one of the best spots we can think of to take an Instagram picture. This is a great place to spend a day with your girls!

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Château de Fontainebleau (@chateaufontainebleau)

Whether you’re with the girls or wanting a romantic getaway, we hope we’ve given you some inspiration for your next excursion outside the city!

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10 Best Places to Visit in France – Outside of Paris!

To know France is to love France.  But how do you get to know a country as intricate as France? From the German-influence infiltrating the eastern border, to the Mediterranean flavour of the French Riviera, and the idyllic islands at a tickling distance from the country’s western shores, France is as complex as it is compelling. 

And while most people who visit France land in Paris , you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you ventured no further than the world’s favourite capital.

Sure, spend a few days eyeing up the Iron Lady, sipping café noir in a quintessential curbside bistro, and learning the art of flaneur … But then drive, train or bus to another corner of l’hexagone to discover another world. One that is sure to seduce you with its intoxicating charm and universally appealing lifestyle.

I have absolutely been won over by the diverse nature of France’s landscapes, so today I’m sharing some of my recommendations for the best places to go in France, besides Paris …

Map of the top places to visit in France

France is a fairly large country (by European standards) and for the uninitiated, it can be a little tricky trying to visualise where everything is. The below map plots out our suggestions of places to see in France, so that you can get your bearings easily. Simply click on the markers to reveal each location.

Alsace is a quintessential frontier zone, part of that northern French hinterland that has changed hands between France and Germany so often over the centuries. As may be expected for a place-between-worlds, Alsace has forged its own unique culture and identity, neither totally French, nor completely German, but always, absolutely Alsatian.

This is a region with its own dialect, a rich and distinctive gastronomic culture, and an extremely long history of winemaking: people have been producing wine here since the 2 nd century. The Alsace wine route boasts more than 800 vineyards over a distance of 105 miles and offers a host of treats for lovers of viticulture.

Indeed, the oldest barrel of wine anywhere in the world may be found in a dark cellar beneath the Hospice of Strasbourg. The vintage is 1472, and it has survived the ravages of two world wars and countless fires.

Although they remain rooted in traditional winemaking, the producers of Alsace wines are also industry pioneers, and it was here that some of the first biodynamic vineyards were established.

Throughout the summer, a swathe of festivals and food markets crop up along the wine route, making Alsace an extremely attractive prospect for a summer road trip.

Yet, Alsace has so much more to offer beyond its vineyards and its hearty food culture. The Renaissance streets of Strasbourg and Colmar, with their painted timbered buildings and cobbled paving stones, offer charm in abundance, particularly at Christmas , when they are dressed in lights and filled with festive markets.

Outside the cities and towns, the luscious green landscape is the ideal place to retreat from the world. Stretching from the Rhine to the dramatic hills of the Vosges, the Alsace is a natural treasure, and there’s plenty to keep nature-lovers occupied.

What’s more, this corner of France is castle country , and there are many imposing, impressive reminders of the region’s medieval past in the ruins of Hohlandsbourg and Fleckenstein.

History looms large here, and the region is redolent with memories of the brutal wars and occupations of the 19 th and 20 th centuries. Nevertheless, despite the importance of the past in defining Alsatian culture and identity, this is a forward-looking, optimistic, and utterly unique part of France that will leave you wanting much, much more.

Explore the Alsace region  – Book your tour here

Fiercely independent, with a weighty history and a rugged charm, Normandy is often considered within France as a place apart.

This verdant region takes its name from the Viking conquerors that settled here in the 9 th century (the name itself comes from ‘north men’ in Old Norse), and although the Normans have kept their fearsome reputation, visitors will always find a warm welcome.

With gorgeous beaches , stunning architecture, and some of France’s finest seafood, this is a region with something for everyone. Norman history has always been tied to the sea, from the earliest Viking raids and the conquest of England in 1066, right through to the darkest moments of the Second World War.

Today, some of the vast, expansive beaches of the Norman coast are places of pilgrimage, preserved as a memorial to the many men who lost their lives during the D-Day landings of 1944. 

Long stretches of golden sand, bordered by undulating dunes, also offer plenty of opportunities for summer fun, and families flock here in the summer months to relax, play games and dip a toe in the Channel. The same coastline is home to an abundance of picturesque ports and fishing towns, such as the beautiful Honfleur, arguably the prettiest harbour in the whole of France. This is the place to come for fabulous, fresh seafood, all washed down with a pint of local cider.

The Norman dukes were medieval rockstars, and they left their mark in the shape of castles and cathedrals. The sublime Gothic churches of Rouen, Coutances and Caen are fitting monuments to this glorious past, as is the unique Bayeux tapestry, the first battle narrative to be told entirely in thread.

But the jewel in this region’s crown has to be Mont-Saint-Michel, the iconic abbey perched on a craggy rock high over the shimmering sands of the Couesnon estuary. It’s small wonder that artists and poets alike have found inspiration in this enchanting region; a visit to Giverny, where Monet painted his famous water lilies, is surely enough to see why.

Enjoy this stunning region by booking a day tour from Bayeux

BORDEAUX 

Rivalled only by the Champagne region, Bordeaux is one of France’s most important wine-producing provinces . Home to over 6,000 vineyards, this profuse and fertile region offers some of the world’s finest wines, building on an ancient culture that goes back nearly 2000 years.

The area around Bordeaux is best explored on foot or by bike, and this lush, sun-soaked region certainly won’t disappoint.

The city of Bordeaux is a pleasant destination for a city break, with its wide boulevards, 18th-century architecture, and riverside street culture. The city is a cultural hub, and visitors come here for the exceptional art galleries and museums, and renowned dining scene.

The River Garonne, which snakes through the town centre, has been the focal hub of the city for centuries, transporting goods in and out of the city. It offers an ideal place for an afternoon stroll, lined with attractive cafes and restaurants offering refreshments for weary travellers.

Outside the city, vineyards dominate the landscape, but Saint-Emilion, in the heart of the Bordeaux region, is an attractive spot for a day trip.

This historic medieval village was founded in the 8 th century when a pious hermit named Emilion, made his home in the nearby caves. Over time, the settlement developed into an important religious centre, and it’s possible to get a little closer to this rich history today by exploring the caves underneath the village.

Wine production has been important here ever since King John of England established the Jurade, a wine-makers brotherhood committed to developing the industry in Saint-Emilion.

Over 800 years later, Saint-Emilion still stands as one of the most important wine-producing areas in France. Whether you’re an aficionado of Bordeaux wines or not, this marvellous region has plenty to offer to visitors.

Book a day trip to Saint-Emilion from Bordeaux here.

FRENCH RIVIERA

The French Riviera – summer retreat of the jet-set – immediately conjures images of glamour, sophistication and style. During the summer months, French holidaymakers, along with an international crowd of celebrities and millionaires, flock to the Côte d’Azur, to dangle a toe in the Mediterranean and let their hair down in Monaco, Saint-Tropez , Nice or Cannes .

This is one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, and with good reason: the Côte d’Azur is truly stunning, comprising sandy beaches, vibrant markets, picturesque towns, coastal walking trails, and blazing red cliffs.

Don’t despair if your wallet doesn’t stretch to long nights on the town in the fashionable resorts of St Tropez and Antibes or the casinos of Monte Carlo. There’s more to explore here than many people realise, and this part of the French coastline is a natural paradise, filled with stunning hidden villages, nestled in the mountains that rise up from the sea.

Saint-Paul de Vence, for example, is known for its maze of labyrinthine streets, and vibrant artistic culture. This stunning village offers exceptional views of the coast and is a haven for photographers. Port Grimaud, the Venice of the Riviera, is characterised by its canals, waterways, and vibrantly painted houses.

Finally, Èze, a charming medieval village perched on a high, rocky outcrop, offers the very best of the Côte d’Azur: exotic gardens, a medieval castle, and fabulous views of the Mediterranean. All the way along the coastline, beech forests and gardens of olives cloak the hillsides, making this an excellent spot for hiking or mountain biking.

Come in the quieter months and you’ll enjoy the warm sunshine, empty beaches, and turquoise seas: it’s easy to see why visitors return to the Côte d’Azur again and again.

Explore the villages of the French Riviera with a tour.

Burgundy, known internationally for its rich, full-bodied wines, is one of France’s lesser-visited regions. A trip here is an escape into some of the country’s most idyllic countryside, featuring rolling green hills covered in orderly vineyards, bright, yellow mustard fields, and tranquil canals.

Burgundy’s vineyards are so important they have even been awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, in a nod to the richness and diversity of this significant wine-producing region. However, while a vineyard tour should definitely be on the agenda, this beguiling region has plenty of other treats to entice visitors.

Dijon, the regional capital, was once the home of the Burgundian dukes, and their influence may still be felt in the stunning medieval and Renaissance architecture that makes up the city.

The region’s fine produce is always on show here, and the fabulous Friday market at Les Halles is not to be missed, featuring local specialities such as Epoisses cheese, escargots (snails), and of course, the famous beef bourguignon.

Outside the city, the countryside is littered with fabulous medieval monasteries, castles , and some of France’s most beautiful villages. The small, walled town of Beaune, with its cobbled streets, Gothic architecture and labyrinthine wine cellars has charm in abundance. This profuse, laid-back region offers plenty of activities for nature lovers.

This is the place to hire a bike and spend the day weaving through the vineyards or drift lazily through the countryside in a canal boat, admiring the view. For walkers, the magnificent Morvan National Park provides over 1000 square kilometres of unspoilt countryside, filled with lakes , waterfalls , and atmospheric woodland. This is undoubtedly the French countryside at its finest.

Explore Burgundy with a day trip from Beaune or Dijon

LOIRE VALLEY

The Loire is France’s last untamed river, a 1000-mile-long, meandering natural habitat that humans have never quite managed to subdue. This aquatic highway has been left almost undisturbed over the centuries to shape the contours of the land that it flows through, and the Loire Valley, otherwise known as the ‘garden of France’, is the product of its meandering course.

The Loire and its tributaries irrigate this fertile landscape, allowing it to bear some of the finest natural produce that France has to offer. The pace of life here follows the river, slow and relaxed, with seasonal bursts of activity.

A visit to the Loire means two things: wine and castles. The fertile rolling hills of this green region offer perfect conditions for growing grapes, and vineyard tours and wine tastings are on offer wherever you go. The region is also dotted with impressive castles, many of which are set in marvellous gardens, overlooking small rivers.

In particular, the Château de Chenonceau conjures images of fairy tales, with its elegant arches and towers, and a well-kept garden maze. Another highlight is the Château de Chambord, an immense structure that was built as a hunting lodge for the French king Francois I, set in grounds filled with deer and wild boar. This wild, sprawling castle continues to delight visitors and is thought to have been inspired by sketches by Leonardo da Vinci.

The stunning fortified towns of Amboise and Chinon both include their own castles, and provide an excellent base for exploring the wider region. Chinon is a particularly good stop for wine lovers, as it is one of the Loire’s main wine-producing areas, but this pleasant medieval settlement has many other things to offer, including a beautiful old town with distinctive slate-topped houses.

Here, it’s also possible to hire bikes, and set off to enjoy the slow beauty of the Loire Valley on two wheels, at your own pace.

Book a day trip to discover the gems of the Loire Valley here.

Just a stone’s throw from the capital, yet half a world away: the green, lush region of Champagne is one of France’s most iconic spots. This is the region that gives its name to those delicious, sparkling wines that have become an international marker of class and sophistication, and it’s impossible to come here without sampling a glass or two.

Winemaking in Champagne has a fascinating history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore the processes, techniques and produce that go into making this quintessential French export. Épernay, the regional capital, is the perfect base from which to set out into the vineyards; just be prepared to return with heavy bags and an empty wallet!

Away from the wine trail, the Champagne region exudes old-world charm, and wandering through its beautiful villages and towns often feels like a step back in time. In fact, Champagne is a place with a visceral connection to its medieval past.

In stark contrast to the glitzy image that surrounds Champagne wines, this is a region of peace, calm and simple pleasures, where artisans and winemakers use traditional processes dating back centuries.

Troyes, an important settlement since the Roman period, features stunning medieval architecture, historic churches, and traditional timbered buildings lining its narrow streets. The regional capital, Reims , is a triumph of Gothic architecture, and its breath-taking cathedral was once the site where the kings of France were crowned and anointed.

Although it suffered extensive damage during the two world wars, Reims has been painstakingly restored in harmony with its medieval past, making it a lively, pleasant starting point from which to explore the wider Champagne region.

Book a Champagne day trip here

DORDOGNE & LOT

The Dordogne River snakes and weaves its way from the high mountains of the Auvergne, down to some of the finest countryside that France has to offer. Passing by dramatic fortified castles , perched precariously on high cliffs, the river continues through Bergerac until it meets the Garonne River at Bordeaux.

In between, the green and fertile lands that make up the Dordogne Valley offer a treasure trove of delights for visitors, both above and below the ground. Traversing the Dordogne and Lot involves, by necessity, an encounter with a very ancient past. More prehistoric remains have been found here than in any other part of France, providing a unique glimpse of the earliest origins of human society.

In the Vézère Valley, over 200 separate Palaeolithic sites have been identified, and it seems that the prehistoric inhabitants of this beautiful region were attracted by the natural protection afforded by its limestone caves.

The jewel in the crown is the fabulous site at Lascaux, where, 17,000 years ago, early humans covered the walls of the cave complex with a series of incredible paintings. More ancient still, however, are the glittering caves and grottos that may be found deeper beneath the ground.

This region is littered with incredible rock formations, formed over millions of years, with stalactites and stalagmites that have merged into epic pillars, creating natural, subterranean cathedrals of sparkling rock. Above ground, the Dordogne and Lot regions have even more treats on offer.

The beautiful medieval settlements of Rocamadour, La Roque-Gageac and Sarlat-la-Canéda are well worth a visit, as are the castles at Beynac and Castelnaud. These picturesque villages and fortified chateaux , constructed in golden stone, are set within glorious natural scenery, with abundant wildlife and birdlife.

There’s plenty here to keep active families occupied, with hiking, climbing, cycling and canoeing on offer throughout the valley. The ideal France holiday destination, this region is a little slice of heaven on earth.

Book your Dordogne tour from Sarlat here.

The Languedoc covers the southwest corner of France, a vast, sprawling region crammed full of fabulous treasures. The ‘langue d’oc’, literally means the ‘language of yes’, and refers to a medieval French dialect that fostered a rich literary and poetic culture during the Middle Ages.

This was the home of courtly love, the chivalric ideal, and the epic Romance legends of King Arthur, and it’s clear that these medieval glory days have left a deep and profound mark on the culture and landscape.

The Languedoc coast, unlike its Provençal neighbour , feels wild and unkempt and offers countless opportunities for exploration. This is the ideal place to toss out the maps and get lost – you never know what you might discover.

The cities of the Languedoc, including Toulouse and Montpelier, are known for their pleasant boulevards and squares and laid back atmosphere. The ‘pink city’ of Toulouse, so named for the terracotta bricks used in its construction, offers bustling markets and a vibrant music scene and is an ideal jumping-off point for the rest of the region.

Towards the foothills of the Pyrenees, the sanctuary of Lourdes, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared in 1858, attracts millions of pilgrims every year. Pilgrims of a different kind arrive at the small town of Rennes-le-Chateau, seeking answers to a conspiracy theory that has raged for decades.

The southwest French coast, stretching from the Camargue to the Côte Vermeille, next to the Spanish frontier, is exceptionally varied, including vast, sandy beaches, marshy wetlands, and pink, rocky outcrops. This wild coast is home to fabulous sea life and many species of birds, making it an ideal spot for nature observation.

Oysters and mussels are the local specialities, and in season, you can eat them directly on the beach: seafood doesn’t come fresher than this.

The pleasant waterfront town of Sète, with its seaside corniche and atmospheric canals, is one of the best places in France to sample the catch of the day. Further inland, the landscape is dramatic, featuring imposing cliffs, gorges and valleys, chestnut forests, and vineyards, punctuated by some fabulous medieval architecture.

The fortified city of Carcassonne , once the stronghold of the Cathar heretics who rebelled against the king, is truly breathtaking and not to be missed. However, Carcassonne was not the only stronghold left behind by the Cathars, and it’s still possible to visit the dramatic ruined vestiges of Montségur, Quéribus and Peyrepertuse for an atmospheric evocation of the medieval past.

The Languedoc has long been a historical crossing point, the meeting place of different cultures, languages and even religions. These diverse influences have produced a rich and distinctive culture, making this one of France’s most rewarding regions for curious travellers.

Discover the delights of the Languedoc on a guided tour.

Provence, the delightful region that envelops the Côte d’Azur, is a heady assault on the senses. Rolling fields of bright, purple lavender , rows of vines stretching into the horizon, and gorgeous groves of twisted olive trees mark out Provence as a true garden of delights.

Aix-en-Provence , the elegant regional city , brings a touch of this rural sensuality to an urban setting, combining leafy courtyards, sculpted stone buildings, and wide boulevards strewn with terraces where visitors can while away the hours and watch the world go by. The city’s colourful markets bring together the very best of Provençal produce, in a vivid display that is sure to whet your appetite.

Avignon , one of Provence’s main cities, also offers visitors plenty of things to see and do . For the better part of the 14 th century, the papal court was based at Avignon, and in this period, popes were not known for their restraint. The Avignon popes set about building a lavish palace, which stands to this day, complete with magnificent frescos.

The city also features several excellent museums, the famous Pont d’Avignon, and an annual arts and theatre festival that attracts an international crowd.

However, Provence’s most enticing charms are found outside the main urban hubs, in the countryside. Picture-perfect medieval villages such as Venasque, Uzès and Gordes offer ample opportunity for exploration, featuring cobbled streets, golden stone architecture, and green, mountainous backdrops.

Les Baux de Provence is perhaps the finest example of restored Provençal village architecture, with its own citadel and a fearsome reputation for gastronomy.

Provence is also home to an abundance of wildlife, supported by its diverse range of natural habitats. In the southwest corner of the region, the green hills drop away to a vast wetland in the Rhône delta.

The Camargue National Park includes herds of wild, white horses, roaming bulls and flocks of startling pink flamingos. This unique, beautiful area is best explored on foot or on horseback and is certain to leave a big impression.

Book your day trip from Aix-en-Provence here .

Read More: Provence Travel Guide

The best way to discover the top destinations in France

Trying to experience the best of France on your own can be a fun and rewarding experience. But to truly get to know a destination, I usually recommend taking at least one tour with a guide who is genuinely passionate and knowledgeable about the area.

Imagine being led through a landscape laced with vineyards, to learn the intricacies of winemaking direct from the source. Or wandering through ancient city lanes, pausing to examine archaic art etched into walls that you would have otherwise overlooked. 

It is personal and authentic experiences like these that French tour company Ophorus pride themselves on. They excel at helping you discover the very best of France, their home, in a relaxed and friendly way. Ophorus guides lead the pack when it comes to delivering meaningful encounters; their expert and in-depth knowledge, delivered in a professional yet approachable manner, has earned them the highest praise from past tour attendees.

The company’s commitment to excellence has also awarded them a coveted spot in the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for 5 years running!

France is a magically diverse country, full of surprises and closely held secrets. I encourage you to explore further than the top France attractions, to discover the country that has inspired so many. Get to know it’s intricacies and you’ll no doubt be yearning to return…

Pin this for later!

*This post has been bought to you in partnership with Ophorus. As always, Le Long Weekend maintains full editorial control of the content published on this site. 

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10 comments.

You’re so right that France is such a varied place! I could spend weeks in each region. There’s so much to discover! I feel so privileged to be able to live in such a beautiful country.

Absolutely – me too! I feel especially lucky to have been able to spend months living in & getting to know several areas really well – but still so much more to discover!

You’ve picked a great choice of regions to visit. Of all of those I think I like Normandy most (other than The Riviera and Provence which come first for me!) I’d like to explore more of Alsace, I’ve really only scratched the surface. I would also definitely add Brittany and the Basque coast to the list and one of my favourite places île de Ré. But honestly I could go on and on…Lyon, the Pyrennes, the Alps, Jura and volcanoes of Auvergne. Nancy, Nantes, Marseilles and the Camargue. The Catalan area around Perpignan….I better stop! Thaks for linking up to #AllAboutFrance and agreeing to host next time.

Haha yes, Provence will always come first for me too – but I’m just a little bit biased 😉

Some fantastic suggestions here, some I have visited but others are on the list! There is so much more to France, than Paris – the only problem is fitting it all in! #AllAboutFrance

So many visitors just head to Paris and however wonderful the city is, France is much more than just her capital. Great post and really happy to see you added Normandy – we have guests to our gite who come back more than once as there is just so much to see and do here! #AllAboutFrance

Thanks Nadine for your insights. We are currently planning our trip and this kind of knowledge is exactly what we were after!

Awesome. I mostly spent time in Paris so I have much to catch up to

Hi Nadine! This is really informative post. I’ve never been to France but planning to visit in a few years with my family. I definitely want to explore France other than Paris and these suggested regions help me to narrow down destinations. I also agree that going on a tour with a guide would be helpful to discover your first-visit place. Thanks a lot!

Aaaah les châteaux de la Loire! Amazing place.

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• Visiting Paris

My Top 5 Places to Visit Outside of Paris

• By Laura Moore
• on February 19, 2019

The other day I looked at my calendar and realized that the high season for visiting Paris is rapidly approaching. If you’re planning on visiting Paris this year ( and you should! ), you’ve probably already started the arduous task of planning your itinerary. I often get asked how to make the most of your time here, and my answer always depends on how long you’re going to be in Paris. If it’s just for a couple of days, I usually recommend staying within the city, as there’s plenty to see and do. However, if you’re going to be here for a week or longer, I highly recommend taking a day or two to venture beyond Paris’ borders. France is a spectacularly beautiful country with so many incredible places to visit. In particular, below are five of my favourite places to visit outside of Paris.

Mont St. Michel

Mont St. Michel is the most visited site in France outside of the Greater Paris region, and for good reason! This beautifully preserved abbey church dates back to the 13th century, and it stands perched atop a small island in the middle of a bay. Needless to say, the views are stunning and the opportunities for photos are endless. The lines can be quite long in the summer months, so be sure to buy your tickets in advance. Also, be sure to try some local apple cider before you leave. It’s a specialty of the region of Normandy and it’s not to be missed. Speaking of Normandy…

D-Day Beaches

This year marks the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings on the beaches of Normandy on June 6th, 1944. There are numerous sites to visit all up and down the 80km stretch of shoreline that played host to the largest amphibious invasion in the history of mankind, including museums, monuments, and memorials. A particular highlight is the recently renovated museum at Utah Beach , which is home to one of only six original B26 bombers still in existence in the world. If you have time to spend a couple of days in the area, be sure to visit the city of Caen and its incredible memorial museum .

Chateau de Chenonceau

There are over 1,000 castles in the Loire Valley, but the stunning Chateau de Chenonceau is considered to be the most beautiful of them all. Come see the former home of Queens and the mistresses of the Kings, and hear the stories of the infamous Catherine de Medici and her arch-rival Diane de Poitiers. Additionally, Chenonceau produces its own wine from its vineyard, and in my humble opinion, their Sauvignon Blanc is the best you can find in a region famed for its white wines. If you have time to spare, make a weekend of it and take in the equally impressive Chateau de Chambord , Chateau de Blois , and Chateau Amboise , where the legendary Leonardo da Vinci is buried.

Speaking of wines, if red is more your colour, head to the southern city of Bordeaux. With the new rapid train line, it’s possible to reach Bordeaux in just two hours from Paris, meaning you can easily make it a day trip. The city itself is incredibly beautiful, and the vast variety of wines available to taste will make the trip well worth your while. It can get quite hot in the summer months, so be sure to check out the contemporary Water Mirror by artist Michel Corajoud, located across from Place de la Bourse. When the heat is sweltering, it’s the perfect place to cool down.

Champagne Region

Of all the places to visit outside of Paris, the champagne region just might be my favourite, and not for the obvious reason that I love champagne. Although I will admit that that is definitely a factor. However, the champagne region is also home to an incredible history, the legendary Reims Cathedral , and over 320 beautiful champagne villages. If you’re looking for small, family run champagne estates, I highly recommend Champagne Vincey in the small village of Oger. Their grapes are grown on a Chardonnay Grand Cru, and they exclusively produce Blanc de Blanc champagne, which happens to be a personal favourite of mine.

Another beautiful champagne estate is the clos of Champagne Le Gallais in the village of Boursault. In addition to producing several types of cuvées, this estate is also home to a chateau that was built by the Grand Dame of Champagne herself, Veuve Clicquot.* Finally, be sure to visit the town of Epernay to take a walk down the legendary Avenue de Champagne to see all of the famous houses of champagne. If you’re looking for the best deal in town to do a tasting, head over to Les Grand Vins de France on rue Flordoard. Ask them for Laura’s favourite Blanc de Noir and they’ll know what you mean.

*please note that the chateau is not open for visits

So many places, so little time….

There are so many incredible places to visit outside Paris, so as you can imagine, this list is just the tip of the iceberg. If you are visiting for a week or more, I hope you will consider venturing out of the city limits for a day or two. Wherever you choose to go, it will be an experience you won’t soon forget.

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Laura Moore is a professional storyteller who loves history and the many stories that make Paris one of the most fascinating cities in the world. Join one of her  signature tours  to learn the story of a city.

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13 Most-Visited Attractions In France Outside Paris

By: Author Christine Rogador

Posted on Published: March 8, 2023  - Last updated: April 4, 2023

Are you looking for some of the most-visited attractions in France outside Paris?

One of the most popular cities in the world, Paris attracts over 33 million visitors every year. The French capital is a central hub for art , fashion , and architecture. People also come to this city to enjoy its gastronomy and experience its culture.

From famous attractions like the Louvre Museum and Eiffel Tower to simple pleasures like a picnic on the banks of the Seine River, Paris has something for everyone.

RELATED READ: Is Paris Expensive? What You Need To Know (2023)

Paris is also a shopper’s paradise. From the fabulous “Golden Triangle” of haute couture to the big department stores and trendy boutiques, there are plenty of places that shopaholics will love.

While there is no question just how popular the French capital is with tourists, not all France is Paris. There are many other famous attractions in France outside Paris that you should explore when in the country.

Things you'll find in this article

13 Most Visited Attractions In France Outside Paris

1. mont saint-michel, normandy, 2. palace and park of versailles, île-de-france, 3. bordeaux, nouvelle-aquitaine, 4. honfleur, normandy, 5. loire valley, pays de la loire and centre-val de loire, 6. deauville, normandy, 7. carcassonne, occitanie, 8. parc asterix, hauts-de-france, 9. french riviera, provence-alpes-côte d’azur, 10. chamonix-mont-blanc, auvergne-rhône-alpes, 11. fontainebleau, île-de-france, 12. étretat, normandy, travel tips and resources.

Let’s have a look at the famous attractions in France outside Paris in this list.

The Abbey of the Mont Saint-Michel was constructed on a granite rock from the 11th century to the 16th century CE. It is a beautiful Gothic-style Benedictine abbey on the island of Saint-Michel.

The island where the abbey is built on is not only a popular tourist attraction in France but also a renowned center of learning, attracting not only visitors from around the world but some of the greatest minds in Europe as well.

The Mont Saint-Michel is home to 44 residents (including the monks and nuns that reside in the abbey) who welcome about  three million visitors each year.

A former royal residence famed for its lavish rooms, art collection, and splendid gardens, the Palace de Versailles welcomes around 15 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited historic sites in the world and in France.

This famous palace was the principal residence of the French kings starting from the time of Louis XIV until Louis XVI’s. It has been furbished by several generations of architects and lanscape architects, sculptors, and decorators, providing Europe with a model of the perfect royal palace for over a century.

The Palace of Versailles, along with its park, has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979. It is deemed one of the most stellar achievements in French 17th century art.

Outside Paris, Château de Versailles is one of the most visited attractions in France.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a wine person, you should visit Bordeaux for its wine heritage. The city attracts around 6 million plus tourists per year making it one of the most visited major cities in France.

The city of Bordeaux is smaller and more manageable than Paris, ideal for walking around. A UNESCO World Heritage site , it is not only famous for its wine but for its historical monuments and stunning architecture as well.

Bordeaux houses nearly 8,000 wine chateaux that produce around 700 million wine bottles each year.

Situated between vineyards and the ocean, Bordeaux is the gateway to the South West and epitomizes the sweetness of life.

Honfleur is a city in the French region of Normandy , located  on the estuary where the River Seine meets the English Channel.

Famous for its old port that served as an important trading port during the Middle Ages, the city also achieved fame for its main church that’s built with wood, as well as its connection with Impressionist painters, including Eugène Boudin, Gustave Courbet, and Claude Monet .

Honfleur’s old port, Vieux-Bassin, is lined with 16th- to 18th-century town houses that have been painted by these artists , most notably Claude Monet .

Honfleur has preserved its treasure trove of artistic and historic maritime heritage.

Today, some 3.5 million tourists from all over the world visit this city each year, making it one of the most visited cities in France outside Paris.

Dubbed the Garden of France, the Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s considered one of the most famous destinations in France.

At least 8 million tourists come to the Loire Valley every year to visit the cities of Orléans and Tours , the charming towns , the exquisite gardens and fairy-tale castles , and the rolling vineyards. Visitors who come here also sample the world-famous wines produced in the Valley. These wines range from vibrant sancerres to sparkling vouvrays.

The Loire Valley is situated in central France’s Loire River. Apart from the abundant produce and wine industry, it is also popular for its vibrant culture.

Normandy welcomes more than 5 million tourists per year; a chunk of which visit the region’s most chic and glamorous seaside resort – Deauville.

Located on the Côte Fleurie of Normandy just a couple of hours from Paris, Deauville has been a fashionable holiday destination since the 19th century.

This French commune is famous for its celebrity boardwalk, American Film Festival, posh casino and golf courses, horse races, and multi-colored parasols on its beautiful golden-sand beaches.

Deauville also offers a wide range of hotel services, luxury shopping, and cultural and athletic events all year round. This is especially good for a short day trip from the French capital.

Carcassonne has been around for nearly 2,500 years. It is located 95 km southeast of Toulouse in the region of Occitanie .

La Cité, Carcassonne’s fortified city within its boundaries, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 1997. This is one of the most impressive walled cities in France, surrounded by two massive walls and 53 towers which served to protect Carcassonne during medieval times.

Each period of Carcassonne’s history has left traces on La Cité’s ancient walls, offering guests a chance to enjoy a life-size history book!

A popular tourist city in the Occitanie region, Carcassonne is a famous French destination visited by nearly 3 million people every year.

Just 40 minutes away from Paris, Parc Astérix  is a theme park based on the comic book series Asterix by Albert Uderzo and René Goscinny. The amusement park is situated in Plailly, in the northern French department of Oise.

The park, which has been around since 1989, offers numerous attractions and live shows for your enjoyment – more than 40 of them across the park, so there is something for everyone.

Next to Disneyland Paris , Parc Asterix is the second largest park of its kind in France and also among the most popular. It welcomes around 2.3 million visitors per year.

The French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur , is a thriving region with around 2 million inhabitants who welcome an average of between 4 and 5 million annual tourists. The busiest months are between April and September .

Situated along the southern French coast, separating Provence from the Mediterranean Sea, the French Riviera is a collection of seaside resort towns that are popular with tourists both locals and foreigners alike.

The most famous of these is St. Tropez , which used to be a military stronghold, fishing village, and artist colony, but is now a favorite playground for the rich and famous.

The French Riviera is renowned around the globe for its amazing scenery, fantastic climate, gorgeous beaches , medieval villages, boutique shopping, and laid-back lifestyle, as well as its proximity to Italy. The latter is reflected in the local dishes, which which makes the French Riviera an ideal destination for the whole family.

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, or just Chamonix, is a resort area near where France, Switzerland, and Italy meet. It is on the base of Mont Blanc, the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe at 15,774 feet.

Chamonix is renowned for skiing . In fact, it boasts one of the world’s most challenging skis and snowboard areas. It is also a popular destination for hiking, rock climbing, paragliding, golf, and tennis.

Over 2 million annual visitors come to Chamonix for its pristine natural environment and a wide range of sporting activities.

While Chamonix is not the most expensive resort in the Alps, it is definitely one of the top six luxury ski resorts in Europe.

Fontainebleau is one of the most famous attractions outside Paris, known for the large and scenic forest of Fontainebleau which is a popular weekend getaway for many Parisians . It is about 37 miles southeast of the French capital.

Over 13 million people visit the Forest of Fontainebleau annually for its unusual landscape, which is the result of quartz settling on the ocean floor and eventually becoming the fine sand that blankets the forest ground today.

Fontainbleau is also renowned for the historic Château de Fontainebleau (Palace of Fontainebleau), which is visited by some 300,000 people annually.

The Palace of Fontainebleau is a medieval castle and subsequent palace that once belonged to the famous French kings and emperors – 34 kings and 2 emperors – from Louis VII to Napoleon III. The palace has over 1500 rooms and situated at the heart of 130 acres of parkland and gardens.

Étretat , a small delightful village on the north coast of France, is frequented by visitors for the striking rock formations carved out of its white limestone or chalk cliffs. These cliffs are collectively known as the Étretat Chalk Complex.

The most famous of these cliffs are the L’Aiguille – or the Needle which is a pillar that rises 70 meters up from the sea – and the natural arch called Porte d’Aval. 

The cliffs of Étrerat are so stunning that they inspire countless painters to visit the region and paint them. The cliffside Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde to the north also offers incredible views. You can enjoy Étretat beach more actively as well. Of course, swimming is a very popular activity in the area.

Every year, there are over one million visitors coming to this small coastal village to hike the winding paths that link the beach to the surrounding green hills and admire the famous natural landscape.

13. Dune of Pilat, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

60 km southwest of Bordeaux, in La Teste-de-Buch in the Arcachon Bay area, you will find the tallest sand dune in Europe. It’s called the Grande Dune du Pilat, or simply the Dune of Pilat. Its current location used to house temporary protohistoric camps for activities connected with sea salt mining.

Attracting more than two million tourists per year, the Dune of Pilat is one of the most famous French tourist destinations outside Paris.

Aside from its amazingly high sand dunes, this attraction also offers great views over the ocean and the forest that goes to the edge of the dune.

It takes about 1.5 hours to walk all the way along the dune, but the effort is worth it especially if you want to witness the best sunset in France. This unique destination is an absolute must-visit that you simply must take in!

Travel Insurance: I never leave home without travel insurance. My personal opinion is if you can afford to travel, you can afford to buy a travel insurance. All things can happen while on the road and you can never be too sure. And it's something that you'll be glad to have when you need it. For my preferred travel insurance, I use Safety Wing .

What To Wear: If you want some ideas on what to pack for France, check out this packing list guide for France .

Where To Stay: I personally use Booking.com for all my accommodations. Check out for their latest deals here .

Reading Resources: Check out our best reading resources here .

Hi, I’m Christine – a full-time traveler and career woman. Although I’m from the Philippines, my location independent career took me to over 40 countries and lived in 4 continents in the last 10 years, including France. A self-proclaimed Francophile, I love everything France.

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Top 10 cities to visit in France (besides Paris!)

Planning a trip to France? Looking for top cities to visit (that aren’t Paris!) Here are 10 of the best cities in France- and why you should plan a trip to see them.

I get it- trying to figure out WHERE to visit in France can feel completely overwhelming.

The short answer is that wherever you go, you’ll enjoy something there. But, to help you plan your French adventure a little better, we’ve put together this list of the best cities in France (outside of Paris!) for a weekend visit or even longer. If you’d like more information about the different regions in France, check out these France road trip ideas (and points of interest to see)

Planning a trip to France? Grab your FREE road trip planner HERE and start creating your perfect trip

JUMP AHEAD TO...

Map of the top 10 cities to visit in France (plus Paris)

Here’s a map of the top 10 cities in France mentioned in this article, so you can find them easily and start planning your France trips.

Don’t forget, if you’re touring France you can add several of these cities together to make an epic French road trip and, if you’re looking for a bit of history, here are 7 of the best historical places in France .

So, now you know WHERE they are- let’s talk about why you should add these cities to your France itinerary. Of course, there are many (MANY!) more towns and cities to explore- these are just 10 of our favourites.

Nice- one of the top 10 cities to visit in France outside of Paris

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Nice is one of the most popular cities in France. The city that some time ago was the home of artists like Matisse and Chagall is now one of the most touristic cities of the Côte d’Azur.

For its art, beaches and the beautiful mountains that surround the city, there’s a reason Nice is considered one of the best places to live in France – it’s a perfect fit for everyone looking to escape from the routine of a big city. 

When is the best time to visit Nice?

If you want to visit Nice at its best, don’t go during the summer season, from June to September. As with every place in France in high season, prices will rise and the city will be crowded. For that reason, a great month to visit Nice is May. You’ll have good weather, fewer people and more competitive prices. Nice is also one of the best European cities to visit in winter, so consider that as an option. 

Ok, it’s a famous city in France. But what is there to DO?

Some of the highlights of Nice include:

• Colline du Château: this is an amazing spot for seeing the sunset in Nice.
• Promenade Des Anglais: one of the most famous places in town! A seven kilometres walk next to the beach is always a good idea.
• Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya: the local market opens from Tuesday to Saturday from 6 to 13:30 and it’s a great spot to discover the local cuisine.
• Le Vieux Nice: the Old Nice is what the locals call the old town. In this small part of the city, you’ll find some of the most iconic buildings like the Nice Cathedral, the Church of Gesù and the Opera House.

How long should you spend visiting Nice?

Nice is a great destination for a weekend getaway, it’s a small city and you can get to know the main spots in two or three days. 

It’s also a great base for a trip to Menton for the lemon festival or other places down the French Riviera.

TOP TIP- if you’re heading down to Nice in a car or motorhome, make sure you add crossing the Millau Bridge into your French road trip itinerary. It’s expensive (especially in a motorhome) but everyone should drive across that at least once! 🙂

Colmar- one of the most beautiful cities in France

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One of the best places to visit in France is Colmar, a gem of a destination in the beautiful French Alsace. In  Colmar, France you have a picturesque and quaint city known for its delicious Alsatian cuisine, half-timber houses and wonderful wine.

What’s so special about Colmar?

When you’re visiting Colmar, you’ll notice how the culture is different from the rest of France. In the Alsace region, spoken dialect is different and many aspects of the language and culture reflect both German and French influences. The region has switched hands throughout history and was an autonomous collection of fortified cities for centuries. The food scene mirrors the best of German and French cooking with hearty German-style dishes prepared to a French standard.

Why is Colmar one of the most famous cities in France?

Colmar is also famous for the colourful half-timber houses and medieval city centre. Walking around Colmar feels like you’ve you been transported back in time or stepped into a classic fairy tale story. One of the best spots in the city to feel this is  La Petite Venise , a stretch of beautiful homes along Colmar’s canals. You can even book a gondola ride through the waterway for the full experience.

The entire region is famous for their vineyards and any trip to Colmar requires a good wine tasting. Many of the wine houses will offer you a free and informal tasting when you enter their shops in Colmar or you can schedule a formal wine tasting in locations around the city. Colmar is a perfect place from which to explore nearby villages and smaller wine route destinations in the southern Alsace.

Annecy- one of the prettiest cities in France

If you’re heading anywhere near the French Alps, someone will tell you to visit Annecy. And they’re right.

This small but gorgeous city sits on the banks of Lake Annecy and is surrounded by stunning mountain views.

HOWEVER- if you are touring France in a motorhome , don’t turn up at Annecy without a campsite booked. We did- and it’s one of the hardest places to wild camp or find aires in France we’ve ever been.

Also, don’t fly your drone over the lake unless you’re prepared to lose it- a random gust of wind knocked our drone out of the sky and it fell into the lake. It was very sad- you can watch the video here and learn other mistakes not to make at Annecy !

Highlights of Annecy

Some of the best things to do in Annecy include:

• Watching the sunrise over Lake Annecy
• Watersports or a boat trip on the lake
• Paragliding- those views looks amazing!
• Explore Annecy old town (and its canals!)

Don’t forget to grab your FREE road trip planner HERE and start creating your perfect France road trip

Biarritz- one of the top seaside cities in france.

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Biarritz is one of the most beautiful and relaxed beach town in the south-west of France. Built right on the Atlantic Ocean, Biarritz was once a hub for pirates and corsairs but has now become a ritzy destination where tourists and locals go to surf, relax at a spa, enjoy the sunny summers by the beach and taste the amazing Basque cuisine! 

Ok, so it’s a famous city, but why should I visit?

The city centre is quite small and can easily be visited on foot. One of the best things to do is to walk from the Côte des Basques to the north end lighthouse via the main beach. From there, you can catch an incredible sunset over the ocean.

Surfing is also fantastic here, as is the beautiful beach. It’s a mecca for surfers so the vibe is mostly chill. If you’re in a van, it can be hard to wild camp here, so expect to need a campsite.

When is the best time to visit Biarritz?

The best time to visit is September or October- the sea has warmed up but the crowds are gone for the summer. (Here are some more great places to visit in Europe in October. )

Biarritz is only 15 min from Bayonne where most national trains stop, but can also easily be reached by road. There is a lot of parking in the city but on weekends, and mostly during the summer months, Biarritz tends to get crowded and the free parking spaces are hard to find. An early visit is usually necessary to find a good parking spot.

Biarritz is a gorgeous place for a weekend  but also the perfect town to base yourself to discover the French side of the Basque country. From the city, it is easy to take day trips along the coast or into the countryside and the Pyrenees.

Toulouse- one of the top cities in France

Recommended by Pauline | BeeLoved City

If you want to discover more about French culture, a trip to Toulouse is perfect.

Located in South West France, Toulouse is one of the most beautiful cities in France and yet so underrated! Nicknamed the Pink City (“La Ville Rose”), it has many beautiful pink buildings! 

How to visit Toulouse

Toulouse is easily accessible by train or plane. If you want to drive and discover more of France, the best way is to park in a  free car park at one of the metro stations. You can then take public transport from there. The city centre is quite small and compact which makes it easily navigable- except for big vehicles like motorhomes!

It might be a top city but what is there to do?

It’s worth spending a weekend here as you will find many things to do in Toulouse and it offers good nightlife. 

You can start your visit with the capitole, the central square. From there you can walk up to La Daurade and enjoy a picnic on the banks of the River Garonne. The views of the city and river are beautiful! It’s a good place to enjoy a stroll as well. You can do a loop from La Daurade through St Pierre and up to St Cyprien.

If you like shopping, St Georges and Carmes districts will be your paradise! Finally, if you want to experience some typical french food, head to either Esquirol or Rue du Taur. There are many restaurants and bars serving Cassoulet, crepes and duck confit! 

When is the best time to visit Toulouse?

Toulouse is situated in the South of France which means that it can get quite hot during summer so the best time to go would be May, June or September. You should get very nice and pleasant weather and avoid the worst of the crowds.

Cannes- the famous French city of Glamour!

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Cannes is often referred to as ‘The city of glamour’ and is one of the most memorable cities to visit in France. Not just for the International Film Festival, which sees world-known stars walk the red carpets of Cannes every year in May, but for the beauty of the place.

When is the best time to visit Cannes?

Cannes can be visited from spring to late autumn – even though if you come here for the full-on sun, you have to do so in summer. Avoid May if you want to stay away from crowds and elevated prices for the Film Festival.

Cannes can be easily visited on a  day trip from Nice . It’s only 30 kilometres away and, if you want to do it in true Riviera style, rent a convertible or a scooter! I’d recommend the scooter since you can park it a lot easier. If coming by car, make use of one of the paid parking lots – try Parking Pantiero near the Old Port. There’s a direct train connection between Nice and Cannes too. 

Ok, so it’s one of the top cities in France, but what is there to DO?

You definitely shouldn’t miss the Old Town – Le Suquet. Uniquely, it’s located on a hill, so as well as strolling through the old streets of Cannes, and perhaps tracing the oldest buildings, you can also admire views over the modern part of the city.

A waterfront avenue lined with palm trees called Promenade de la Croisette is a 3km long boulevard perfect for a proper Cannes walk, engaging in plenty of Art Nouveau architecture- and people-watching.

On the way, make sure to stop at the Old Harbor (Vieux Port). Like anywhere else on the French Riviera, this is the place to admire the luxury yachts. Here, though, they alternate with smaller, and less fancy, fishing boats.

The newer part of Cannes is equally pleasing. Even here the streets are rather small and winding. This part of town is full of restaurants, cafés and bars and offers a lively vibe.

Strasbourg- a beautiful city in France

Strasbourg is on the French- German border and, like Colmar, has changed hands many times throughout its history. That’s one of the things that gives this beautiful city its charm.

It’s made up of lots of little islands, caused by the river which flows through it. Grande Ile, the largest island is UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Best things to do in Strasbourg

There’s plenty to keep you busy, but some of the best things to do in Strasbourg include:

• Daily show of the astronomical clock at the Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral. You can also climb partway up the spire and enjoy incredible views of the Rhine River.
• Wander La Petite France- a historical area famous for its cobbled streets and quaint houses. Walk the nearby covered bridges too.
• Visit Place Kleber- the main square of the town
• See the Palais Rohan

When is the best time to visit Strasbourg?

Out of high season is always a good option but, if you possibly can, you need to visit Strasbourg in December. Strasbourg has one of the biggest Christmas markets in Europe and seeing the city at this time of year is just magical. It’s a fantastic mix of French and German influences, so you get the best of both worlds!

Lille- one of the top cities to visit in France

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The pretty city of Lille is a wonderful place to visit in France. The capital of the Hauts-de-France region, there are lots of things to do in Lille from world-class museums and world heritage sites.

When should you visit Lille?

What Lille is best known for, however, is its markets. Home to the largest Christmas market in Northern France, Lille is the place to come during the festive period. The market spans the month of December when over 90 wooden chalets take over Place Rihour selling Christmas gifts and festive food.

But it’s not just Christmas that Lille does well, the city is also home to the largest flea market in Europe. La Grande Braderie de Lille takes place annually on the first weekend of September and attracts more than two million people. This enormous antiques, flea and bric-a-brac street market dates back to medieval times and today attracts more than two million people for the 48-hour event.

What else is there to see in Lille?

Make sure to spend some time touring ‘Vieux Lille’ when you’re here. The ‘old’ part of the city is incredibly pretty, filled with cobbled streets and colourful houses. The buildings painted red and yellow date back to Spanish rule. The best way to explore this part of the city is on a tour with Tradi’Balade who run tours in colourful open-top 2CV tours.

It may be a top city in France, but what about the FOOD?

Once you’ve seen the sights treat yourself to some traditional pastries. The patisserie,  Aux Merveilleux de Fred , is home to ‘Les Petits Merveilleux’, roughly translated as “the little marvels”. These cakes consist of a sandwich of two meringues with whipped cream in the middle, which is then covered in more whipped cream and topped with flavours such as chocolate shavings or nuts. There’s usually a long line out the door but the wait is worth it!

Lyon- a top French city outside of Paris

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Why is Lyon food so famous?

Why is lyon one of the best cities to visit in france, when is the best time to visit lyon, pau- one of the cheapest cities in france.

Pau is a wonderful French city that, in my opinion, is one of the most underestimated cities in France. Not many people outside of France have heard of Pau, which is a shame because it is truly a stunning city.

Pau is located just 80 km away from the Spanish border and it’s also not far away from Biarritz and a famous hiking route in Gavarnie. You can perfectly well combine a trip to Pau with hiking in Gavarnie or with swimming in Biarritz if you’re visiting in summer. Or you can visit it on 3-day Nouvelle Aquitaine road trip

So why is Pau worth visiting?

Pau is a small city off the beaten path in France; its population is only about 80,000 people. What Pau is most famous for is the beautiful Chateau de Pau or Pau Castle that is also the birthplace of Henry IV of France.

You can enjoy stunning views over the Pyrenees, wander around the pretty streets, visit Pau castle, treat yourself to a delicious lunch in one of the restaurants (try Le Canard Royal or Cotes & Mer), or walk the entire Boulevard des Pyrenees and enjoy the sunset!

You’re also really close to the famous Cirque de Gavarnie – a must-visit destination in the Pyrenees and home to Europe’s second-highest waterfall!

When is the best time to visit Pau?

It gets very warm in summer, so make sure to bring light clothes and comfortable shoes! We recommend spending a day or two maximum here, but you can easily see the highlights in half a day if you want. It can get cold in winter, definitely not one of the warmest places in Europe to visit in February , so anytime from Spring to Autumn works best.

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Oh, go on then. You’ve already discovered 10 incredible cities to enjoy that aren’t Paris but, let’s face it, Paris is an amazing city. There is a reason there are so many movies and books set in France which are based here- it’s magical. Here’s a quick guide on why you should add it to your top France cities to visit.

The city is a series of incredible attractions; bursting with unique experiences & things to do. It’s romantic, but – despite what you may think – in a subtle way; you can easily travel here solo and enjoy yourself.

What are the best things to do in Paris?

Highlights of Paris include:

• climbing the Eiffel Tower, the symbol of the city, a crowded attraction for which you will need to purchase skip the line tickets.
• visiting at least the most important museums such as the Louvre and Orsay.
• climbing Montparnasse Tower – in and of itself, it probably is the ugliest building in the city, but the views from there are stunning, even more so because when you are on it, you don’t get to see it!
• Climb up the Arc de Triomphe, another place for incredible views.
• Areas like Marais and Montmartre are best enjoyed on a walk. The first one is the nicest area of Paris, with a fabulous local feel, lovely small cafés and bars and an incredible atmosphere. Montmartre is Paris artistic heart – that’s where artists such as Van Gogh used to live. 

Last but definitely not least, make sure to factor in an extra day for a day trip to the historical palace of Versailles , where the French royal family used to live until the French Revolution in 1789. 

You can never stay too long in this city, but in general,  5 days in Paris  will keep you busy and you won’t have time to get bored. 

TOP TIP: Paris is served by 3 airports – Charles de Gaulle, Orly and Beauvais. The first one is the main airport and well connected to the city by public transportation; Orly is not a bad option, but Beauvais is about an hour north of Paris and a pain to get to unless you have a car. 

When is the best time to visit Paris?

Try to avoid the middle of summer. December is magical when everything is decorated for Christmas, but our favourite time to visit Paris is Autumn- when the leaves are changing colour. It’s beautiful against the stone buildings. (Here are some more great ideas for places to visit in Autumn in Europe .)

So there you have it- 10 of the best cities to visit in France, plus Paris. I hope it’s helped narrow down your choices. Let us know where you end up!

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Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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5 Amazing Towns To Visit in France Outside of Paris

France is a beautiful country but too often people don’t travel outside of Paris.

Avoid the tourist trips and follow this guide for an authentic experience of traveling like a local around France.

Here are 5 little towns you should visit.

Annecy, town of Haute-Savoie

Thanks to its idyllic location between lake and mountains, it is no surprise if Annecy is often called the 'Pearl of French Alps' or the ‘Venice of the Alps’ because of its canals.

Only 22 miles from the Geneva border in the Upper Savoy Region of eastern France, this is one of the most popular towns in France. 

It’s a perfect place for a romantic get away with a partner or yourself!

Eguisheim, town of Haut-Rhin

Very close to the town of Colmar and not far from the German border, you'll find the typical Alsatian village of Eguisheim, elected "Favorite French Village" a few years ago.

The village is one of the best wine producers of France and is on the Alsatian Wine Route; therefore you’ll find tons of stops to drink some vino. 

During Christmas time, Eguisheim becomes magical with its Christmas market. The whole town smells like gingerbread and there twinkling city lights everywhere.

Beynac-et-Cazenac, town of Dordogne

On the banks of the Dordogne River lies the beautiful medieval village of Beynac-et-Cazenac and its imposing castle on the top of the cliffs that was once besieged by Richard the Lion Heart. 

If the name of the village doesn't sound familiar to you, it actually featured some well-known movies such as  Chocolat  with Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp.

Sit down at one of the many restaurants and bars of the village and enjoy the stunning views while having lunch and a good glass of wine.

Visiting Beynac-et-Cazenac is a good plan to explore the gardens along the winding streets and enjoy the beautiful views over the cliffs.

Lourmarin, town of Provence

Located in Provence and listed as "one of the most beautiful villages in France," Lourmarin is very animated during the summer with its cafe terraces, restaurants, boutiques and visitors exploring the 15th century castle. 

Ivy covered streets, small galleries, and aromas of lavender cover the town.

Albert Camus, winner of the Nobel Literature Prize, lived and wrote there and was also buried in the cemetery of Lourmarin. 

If you're looking for some inspiration, this is a perfect to find some. And magic...

Gevrey-Chambertin, town of Côte-d'Or

If you're driving in the beautiful and charming Burgundy region of eastern France, make a stop at this winemaking village off the  Route des Grand Crus  in the Côte de Nuits, about 15km south of the famous city Dijon. 

This is a perfect place to visit and enjoy some homemade wine with some cheese. We know that  Under30Experiences  makes a stop here for some wine tasting.

If you’re taking a road trip with friends, or a partner or maybe you’re a solo traveler looking to explore something different other than Paris. 

Check out our Under30Experiences France trip ! You can’t get enough wine and cheese from Paris.

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These 10 Landmarks In France Are Worth Skipping Paris To See

France has more to offer than just Paris; these landmarks are worth a detour from the most popular French city.

• France is more than just Paris. There are countless places outside of the city to explore, from ancient ruins and art museums to stunning gardens and natural wonders.
• Arles offers a glimpse into French history with its ancient Roman Amphitheater and ties to Vincent van Gogh. Visitors can learn about both at the Foundation Vincent Van Gogh Arles.
• The Loire Valley is a must-visit for wine enthusiasts and biking enthusiasts alike. Visitors can enjoy beautiful countryside, explore châteaux, and indulge in delicious French cuisine and wines.

Paris is universally heralded as the city of love . Visitors from all over the world flock to this destination for a selfie with famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower or with the hope of meeting that special someone. But what about the rest of France? Have the wonders of the Camargue, the Riviera, and the Loire Valley been overlooked in favor of the city of lights?

Well-versed travelers will know that France is more than just Paris. There are hundreds of different places to see and explore, with some of the world's top landmarks worth visiting located there. France is a romantic country filled with unique nooks for travelers to fall in love with. Nearly every city has its own charm, its own delicious local wines, and artistic wonders to see—not to mention the stunning European architecture. In a country with a history that stretches back to the Paleolithic era, visitors have thousands of years of human culture to explore.

Find out the best locations in France (outside of Paris) to learn about hidden French gems, the best places for wine, spectacular gardens, and ancient ruins!

10 Visit Arles: The Roman Amphitheater And The Once-Home Of Vincent van Gogh

France is a country with a long and rich history. One of the best places outside of Paris to experience that is at Arles. This Camargue city has been inhabited for millennia but truly came into its own during the Roman period when the city's famous Amphitheater was built.

With a capacity to hold 20,000 people, visitors today can still hear echoes of the roaring crowds that once came here to watch gladiator fights and chariot races. Arles' history, however, didn't end when Rome fell; later on, in the 19th century, Arles was home to world-famous artist, Vincent van Gogh for a year, and is the subject of many of his paintings.

Visitors can learn about him at the Foundation Vincent Van Gogh Arles , a local museum that hosts Van Gogh-themed events.

• What to do here: Learn about French history from Rome to the modern era, visit the spectacular Roman amphitheater, visit the Foundation Vincent van Gogh Arles

Related: 10 Most Historic Attractions In France And The Amazing Stories Associated With Them

9 Bike The Loire Valley

Known as the Garden of France, the stunning Loire Valley is famous for its lush agricultural land . Tourists here will find beautiful countryside rich with asparagus, artichokes, cherries, and grapes. This area is also famous for its architecture, gastronomy, its many châteaux, its delicious wines, and its long-standing role in history; inhabitation in this area goes back at least 57,000 years!

The top thing to do in this area, however, has to be to travel the Loire by bicycle. With dozens of cycling tours for travelers to enjoy, visitors can either take a relaxed approach or a more rigorous one. The possibilities are endless!

• What to do here : experience some of the best French wines and foods, visit many different châteaux, go on a biking tour

8 Dune du Pilat: France's Surprising Natural Wonder

Who would've thought that the tallest sand dune in Europe is located in France? Dune du Pilat, a 2.7 km long sand dune located on France's Atlantic coast, draws millions of tourists every year.

Visitors here can not only see this marvel of nature but can enjoy the many sports and recreational activities that make this area famous, like paragliding.

• What to do here: visit a 2.7 km long sand dune (the tallest in Europe), engage in sports and recreational activities like paragliding

7 Step Back In Time At Lascaux

One of the most important educational experiences in the world is visiting the Lascaux IV Museum . The original Lascaux Cave, located near the village of Montignac, was first discovered by local teenagers in 1940. The beautiful artwork depicting bulls, horses, giant elk, and bison was determined to date back to at least 15,000 BCE.

Although the actual cave is currently closed for preservation reasons, the Museum of Lascaux IV seeks to give visitors a similar experience by utilizing replica artwork created by a team of 50 artists.

Visitors will be able to find a newfound connection with Paleolithic hunter-gatherers when walking through the reconstructed tunnel lined with replica artwork.

• What to do here: learn about Paleolithic history, find a greater understanding of the human experience, see stunning replica artwork at Lascaux IV

Related: The Submerged Cosquer Cave In France Holds Some Of The Most Well-Preserved Paintings From The Stone Age

6 Fall In Love With Beautiful French Architecture At The Pearl Of France, Menton

When traveling to Menton, tourists will quickly learn why this city has been nicknamed "The Pearl of France." The sight of pink, yellow, and orange buildings rising up along the hillside, with their brilliant colors reflected in green water is enough to take even the hardest of hearts' breath away.

This spectacular city is filled with adorable cafés, exquisite gardens, informative museums, and stunning beaches. The many palm trees and bright colors found here make this a perfect winter destination for those who need an escape from the snow or rain!

• What to do here: see some of France's most beautiful urban architecture, sit at a café, enjoy the city's museums

5 See The Spectacular Gardens At Pont du Gard

Located just near the historic city of Nîmes towers one of the Mediterranean's premier Ancient Roman sites: the aqueduct-bridge of Pont du Gard. This aqueduct is the perfect showcase of Ancient Roman engineering; this aqueduct would have provided a life-giving source of water for thousands of people in the region.

For tourists today, this site is a reminder of the labor and hard work that humans historically have had to do to stay alive and meet basic needs. However, this site is not just a utilitarian one. Pont du Gard is now a popular hiking spot, where tourists can walk through some of the most peaceful gardens in southern France.

Here, tourists will see a vast array of wildflowers and can rest under the shade of ancient olive trees.

• What to do here: see one of Europe's most important Ancient Roman sites, learn about the human experience, hike, see wildflowers, sit under an olive tree, visit nearby Nîmes

Related: Discover This Underrated, But Well-Preserved Roman City In Southern France

4 Marvel At The Orchards, Hills, And Ochre-Rich Gorges Of Roussillon

A unique, mountainous landscape with fertile orchards defines the small village of Roussillon. This area is known for its delicious fruit, like cherries and peaches, and for its rosé wines. What makes this village special, however, and ranks it as one of the best non-Paris places to visit in France are its stunningly beautiful clay deposits that historically were used to make paint pigments from the 18th-20th centuries.

Today, visitors can hike along the brilliant orange and golden cliff sides. The natural ecology is actually reflected in the local architecture of the town; many of the historic buildings here are bright orange, like the clay deposits. It is truly a sight that has to be seen to be believed!

• What to do here: hike along historic ochre mining sites, see brilliant orange and yellow cliff sides rich with clay, marvel at local architecture, taste delicious cherries and peaches from local orchards

3 Visit The Purple Lavender Fields Near Aix-en-Provence

Visiting France in the summer is popular for a reason. One of those reasons is to see the summer-blooming lavender fields of Provence. Tourists come from far and wide to see the purple and blue fields surrounded by dense green forests and rough-stone country buildings.

The perfect place to stay to see this iconic French agricultural wonder is Aix-en-Provence, a Roman-era town known for the victory site of the infamous general Gaius Marius in his Cimbrian War. This city is famous for its medieval cloisters, tranquil cafés, towering cathedrals, and picturesque views.

• What to do here: Visit the summertime purple lavender fields, visit Aix-en-Provence to view medieval cloisters, sit in a café, visit local cathedrals

Related: Road Trip France: Explore 10 Beautiful Towns On The French Riviera

2 Drink In The World's Wine Capital At Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a wine lover's paradise! This metropolitan area, which is the fifth largest in France, is internationally heralded as the best place for wine in the entire world. With over 10,000 châteaux in this area and 285,000 acres of vineyards, it is no surprise that this area has become famous for its red and white wines.

Tourists can enjoy a professional wine-tasting tour or can set off on their own. Some of this area's other main attractions include the Place de la Bourse, the Bordeaux Cathedral, the Grande Synagogue, and the Rue Sainte-Catherine.

• What to do here: try some of the world's best red and white wines, go on a wine-tasting tour, visit many different picturesque châteaux, visit the Place de la Bourse, the Bordeaux Cathedral, the Grande Synagogue, and the Rue Sainte-Catherine

1 Stroll Through Monet's Gardens At Giverny

For some of the best gardens in France, a great place to visit is Giverny, the historic home of Claude Monet. Visiting here, tourists will realize that even the incredible artistry of Monet's Water Lilies series could not truly capture the splendor of these gardens. This area is at its most gorgeous in late spring and early summer when the majority of the flowers are in bloom.

The green water of the area's ponds surrounded by lush trees and water flora will give visitors a sense of lasting peace that will follow them even to their next adventure.

Visitors here should stop by the two major museums in this area, the Museum of Impressionism Giverny and the Foundation Claude Monet. The Foundation Claude Monet is especially enthralling, as it is the actual home where Monet lived, and includes the expansive gardens where he painted many of his significant works.

• What to do here: see the beautiful gardens of Claude Monet at the Foundation Claude Monet, visit the Museum of Impressionism Giverny, see local and exotic plants, learn about Claude Monet

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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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Paris Top Ten

Best of Paris

Where to Stay Outside of Paris: Top Options for Experiences

Paris, the city of love and lights, offers countless attractions, but there is much more to explore within easy reach of the bustling metropolis. For travelers seeking where to stay outside of Paris, it is a more serene and picturesque experience, several charming small towns near Paris provide the perfect getaway. These quaint destinations offer a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, just a stone’s throw away from the French capital.

Nestled among the idyllic French countryside, these towns provide visitors with a quiet retreat without sacrificing accessibility.

With excellent dining options, unique shopping opportunities, and awe-inspiring attractions, these towns effortlessly cater to travelers of all ages and interests. Close proximity to Paris makes these destinations ideal for visitors looking to expand their horizons beyond the city limits.

As travelers explore the beautiful small towns around Paris, they’ll immerse themselves in a quintessentially French atmosphere . Each town boasts its distinctive character, and through their unique blend of timeless charm and modern amenities, visitors will discover a captivating world just outside the bustling capital.

Table of Contents

Navigating the Region

Top destinations for accommodation, hotels outside paris, staying near paris with a car, accommodations for the olympics, exploring nearby towns, where to stay near paris, frequently asked questions, which commuter towns are popular near paris, what are the best cities to visit around paris, which suburbs are recommended for staying near paris, what are some cities near paris with easy train access.

The countryside surrounding Paris offers a plethora of picturesque towns and villages to visit, providing a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Choosing where to stay outside Paris depends on various factors, such as transportation accessibility, natural scenery, and regional attractions.

One popular option is to stay in areas with easy access to train lines leading into the city. These towns provide a balance between a relaxed rural atmosphere and convenient connections to Parisian landmarks.

Fontainebleau, for instance, is home to a beautiful royal château and vast forests, making it an appealing destination for nature lovers. The town is easily accessible from Paris via train, taking approximately an hour.

To the north of Paris, Chantilly offers an exceptional cultural experience with its majestic Château de Chantilly and notable horse-racing culture. This town is an attractive choice for those who appreciate French history and equine sports.

Similarly, Senlis is another historic town north of Paris worth considering. Its cobbled streets and Gothic cathedral contribute to a unique charm that draws visitors from all over the world.

For those seeking a more peaceful retreat, Giverny is a popular choice, owing to the village’s association with famed impressionist painter Claude Monet. Visitors can tour his home and garden, which inspired many of his renowned works. Giverny is well-connected, allowing guests to take the train into the city easily.

When looking for accommodation, consider these factors:

• Transportation : Ensure your chosen location has reliable train connections to central Paris.
• Attractions : Consider your preferences, such as interest in historical sites or natural scenery, before deciding on a destination.
• Amenities : Check if the towns you’re considering have a good selection of dining and shopping options.
• Budget : Decide on the most appropriate choice considering lodging expenses and transportation costs.

Ultimately, where you stay outside Paris will depend on your preferences and vacation goals. Each location offers unique experiences and attractions that cater to diverse travelers, but all provide a charming alternative to the buzz of the city center.

See Related: Le 105 bis Eiffel

When considering the best places to stay outside of Paris, it’s essential to consider the accessibility, amenities, and atmosphere of the location. Here are our top recommendations for hotels outside Paris:

• Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace : Located near the famous Palace of Versailles, this luxurious hotel offers a tranquil escape from the city while still providing easy access to Paris. The hotel has parking and excellent dining options.
• Hôtel Le Walt : Offering picturesque views of the Eiffel Tower , this hotel in the suburbs provides a luxury stay just a short distance away from the heart of Paris. With convenient public transportation options nearby, exploring the city center is easy.
• Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel : This mid-range hotel provides a comfortable stay with modern amenities, while still being close enough to experience the city. Parking is available, and the hotel is just a short drive away from popular Parisian attractions.
• Hôtel Eiffel : A budget-friendly option outside of Paris, Hôtel Eiffel offers clean and comfortable accommodations with easy access to public transportation. Guests can enjoy nearby shopping and restaurants while still being within reach of Paris’s attractions.
• Résidence Charles Floquet : For those looking for an apartment-style accommodation, Résidence Charles Floquet offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens and living spaces. This option is located in a quiet neighborhood, providing a relaxing retreat from the bustling city.
• People – Paris Bercy : This budget-friendly hotel offers affordable accommodations in a vibrant neighborhood filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. With easy access to public transportation, guests can reach central Paris quickly and efficiently.

When choosing the best place to stay outside of Paris, consider factors such as proximity to public transportation, availability of parking, and the desired atmosphere. These recommend locations meet various needs and preferences, ensuring a pleasant and memorable stay just beyond the city limits.

See Related : Hôtel Olympic by Patrick Hayat

When planning a trip to the city of love, travelers might prefer staying in quaint towns outside of Paris, especially if they have a car. These towns offer a combination of charming countryside atmosphere, shopping opportunities, and accessibility to other cities.

Chantilly is a great choice for those looking for accommodations outside Paris. It is only 50 km (31 miles) from the city center and offers a range of hotels such as Manoir des Cavaliers , which has ample free on-street parking. Chantilly is also well-known for its picturesque scenery, cultural heritage, and the famous Château de Chantilly.

Another option is Vincennes , a beautiful suburb southeast of Paris. It has easy access to the city via the metro, RER, or suburban trains. Vincennes is home to the stunning Château de Vincennes and the Bois de Vincennes, a vast park ideal for leisurely strolls.

A couple more suburbs worth considering include Saint-Mande and Charenton , both located near Vincennes. They offer a variety of accommodations, shopping and dining options, as well as easy access to Paris.

To the east of Paris, Nogent-sur-Marne and Bry-sur-Marne are two other attractive towns along the Marne River. They boast beautiful riverside walking paths, traditional French architecture, and numerous hotels to choose from with parking facilities.

Below is the summarized information for your convenience:

TownDistance from ParisNotable AttractionsParking optionsChantilly50 kmChâteau de ChantillyOn-streetVincennes8 kmChâteau de VincennesHotel parkingSaint-Mande9 kmBois de VincennesHotel parkingCharenton8 kmSquare des Frères LamennaisHotel parkingNogent-sur-Marne15 kmWatersports parkHotel parkingBry-sur-Marne18 kmRiverside walksHotel parking

In summary, when visiting Paris and planning to drive, these towns balance peaceful surroundings and accessibility to the city. Always double-check the parking options when booking a hotel in these areas, as options may vary.

See Related: Paris River Cruise: A Comprehensive Guide to Unforgettable Experiences

When planning a trip to the Paris Olympics in 2024, finding the right accommodation is essential. Many visitors may prefer to stay outside of the bustling city center, allowing for a more relaxed and quiet experience. Several options are available within a 30 to 45-minute commute to central Paris, making them ideal locations for those attending the games.

One option for staying outside of Paris is the Ile-de-France region, which offers a range of accommodations from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious chateaus. The area is well-connected by train and bus services, ensuring easy access to all the Olympic venues across Paris.

The city of Lille is another excellent option for those looking for accommodations during the Olympics. Lille will be hosting basketball and handball events, making it a convenient choice for attendees of those specific games. Additionally, Lille is well-connected to Paris by train, with travel times typically under two hours.

Other cities hosting soccer events, such as Bordeaux , Lyon, Marseille, Nantes, Nice, and St-Etienne, offer a variety of accommodations and are well-connected to Paris by train. Sailing enthusiasts can find lodging in Marseille, which will host sailing competitions during the Olympics.

When considering accommodations outside of Paris for the Olympics, it is crucial to weigh factors such as travel time, convenience, and the specific events you plan to attend. With numerous options available, visitors can find the perfect place to stay and enjoy the Paris Olympics to the fullest.

See Related: Hotel Providence

When planning a trip to Paris, it’s worth considering a stay in one of the many charming small towns located just a short distance away from the bustling city center. These quaint locations allow visitors to experience the beauty and charm of the French countryside while still enjoying convenient access to Paris.

Chantilly is one such town that stands out for its rich history and architectural wonders, such as the stunning Château de Chantilly and its beautiful gardens. A mere 50 km north of Paris, it is easily accessible by train. Another nearby town to explore is Fontainebleau , located about 60 km south of Paris. Home to the impressive Fontainebleau Palace that once housed French royalty, this historical town offers visitors the opportunity to experience French history and culture at its finest.

For those in search of a picturesque village experience, Provins is an ideal choice. At approximately 90 km east of Paris, this UNESCO World Heritage site boasts an impressive medieval architecture and hosts various festivals throughout the year. Additionally, Giverny should be on any art lover’s itinerary, as it is home to Claude Monet’s famous house and gardens. Located only 75 km west of Paris, visitors can easily access this town by train.

Nature enthusiasts might consider a trip to the Rambouillet area, about 50 km southwest of Paris. With its thriving wildlife sanctuary and lush Forest of Rambouillet, this destination offers a tranquil retreat from the busy city life.

With so many options to choose from, visitors can easily find charming small towns near Paris that cater to their unique interests. Each of these destinations offers a delightful escape from the city, while still providing convenient access for day trips to the French capital.

See Related: Hotel Galileo

Staying outside of Paris allows you to enjoy the charm of nearby small towns while still having access to the city. Here are a few options that offer great accommodations and easy access to Paris.

Provins : Located 70 km southeast of Paris, Provins is a medieval town once the capital of the powerful Counts of Champagne. The town’s well-preserved architecture and rich history make it a fantastic choice for a day trip or short stay. Getting to Paris is quite simple, as Provins is well-connected by train.

Vincennes : A beautiful suburb southeast of Paris, Vincennes offers a perfect blend of lush greenery and accessibility. Key attractions include the Château de Vincennes and the Bois de Vincennes , Paris’ largest public park. Vincennes is connected to the city by both metro and RER trains, making it easy to explore Paris.

Chantilly : Just 50 km north of Paris, Chantilly is a charming city known for its magnificent Château de Chantilly, horse racing, and extensive forests. Accommodations in the area range from elegant hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts. Chantilly can be reached by train in just 25 minutes from Paris Gare du Nord.

Nogent-sur-Marne : Situated along the scenic Marne River, Nogent-sur-Marne is a peaceful suburb with lovely scenery and delightful architecture. This tranquil area is well-connected by RER trains, making it an ideal base for those seeking a quiet retreat while visiting Paris.

Les Villages Nature Paris : This eco-friendly resort offers a unique stay in the Parisian suburbs, surrounded by lush gardens, a large lake, and nature-focused activities. The resort is easily accessible by train and just a short distance from Disneyland Paris . Explore these picturesque towns and suburbs to experience a different side of France, all while staying within reach of the bustling city of Paris.

See Related: The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Trip to Paris

There are several commuter towns located around the outskirts of Paris that are known for their shopping, restaurant scenes, and accessibility. Some popular towns include Fontainebleau, Meaux, Rambouillet, Saint-Germain-en-Laye, and Versailles. Each town offers unique attractions, cultural experiences, and local charm to make for delightful stays while well-connected to Paris.

Apart from the commuter towns, several other cities near Paris are worth exploring. Consider a visit to Chartres, famous for its gothic cathedral, or Rouen, known for its rich history and half-timbered houses. Alternatively, discover the picturesque town of Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s famous gardens, or venture to the medieval city of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.e the best cities to visit around Paris?

Several suburbs offer a more relaxed atmosphere while still remaining accessible to the city center. Some recommended options include Boulogne-Billancourt, known for its parks and museums, Neuilly-sur-Seine, an upscale residential area with a charming town center, and Vincennes, which boasts both an extensive forest and a historically significant château. These suburbs balance quaintness and accessibility, making them ideal for travelers seeking a more tranquil stay.

Trains make it incredibly convenient to visit cities around Paris while staying connected to the city center. Cities such as Reims, the center of the Champagne region, and Lille, known for its Flemish architecture and lively atmosphere, can be reached in under an hour and a half by train. Additionally, Blois and Orléans, located in the Loire Valley, are also well connected by train and offer visitors a gateway to the region’s famous châteaux.

Related Resources

• Best Paris Tour Packages: Tips to Book the Perfect Vacation
• Mont St Michel Full-Day Tour by Train from Paris
• 20 Best Boat Tours in Paris, France

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29 Beautiful Places in Paris Everyone Should Visit (at Least) Once

By Caitlin Morton

Compiling a list of the most beautiful places in Paris is no easy task. The city has a nearly endless supply of charming shops, artsy museums, boutique hotels, and world-famous landmarks—so choosing just a few dozen of those sites takes a good deal of restraint.

Still, we were able to put together a collection of Parisian wonders that we feel encapsulate this great city best—from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the romantic banks of the Seine River, with plenty of bookstores and cathedrals in between.

If you’re planning a trip to the City of Light, be sure to add these must-visit places to your itinerary. And even if you’ve already experienced most of these attractions, the wonderful thing about Paris is that every repeat visit unveils something new about the city. Whether it’s your first or fifth time walking along the cobblestoned streets of Saint-Germain or hearing the bells toll from Notre-Dame, you’ll find that the charm of Paris transcends cliche.

With gilded history reflected across so many arrondissements, here are 29 of the most beautiful places in Paris.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Jardin du Luxembourg

One of the most famous green spaces in Paris (and even greener during the spring), Jardin du Luxembourg is a favorite spot for locals to stroll and relax. While the overall vibe here is quite grand and regal, there are still intimate corners to be found.

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel has long been one of Paris’s most fabulous grande dames, but the property became even more luxurious after unveiling its four-year renovation in 2017. The current iteration features Karl Lagerfeld–designed suites, dreamy terraces for afternoon tea, and a world-class spa with a glittering indoor pool.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame

When you think of French Gothic architecture, chances are you think of Notre-Dame . Although the cathedral’s spires were destroyed in a devastating fire in 2019, the iconic facade and rose windows still draw massive crowds—and serve as a testament to the enduring beauty of Paris.

Musée Jacquemart-André

Once the home of a refined, art-collecting couple, Musée Jacquemart-André now serves as a museum with works from Rembrandt, Bellini, Botticelli, and more. The 19th-century mansion is just as much of a draw, with grand marble staircases and gallery walls that redefine #apartmentenvy.

Charlie Hobbs

Maya Silver

CNT Editors

Shakespeare and Company

A former haunt of Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein, Shakespeare and Company is as historical as it is charming. Bibliophiles could spend hours perusing the bargain racks on the sidewalk (especially on a sunny afternoon), ideally followed by a slice of lemon pie at the on-site café.

Fondation Louis Vuitton

Open since 2014, this spectacular museum is home to some of the city’s best contemporary art. But we think the sailboat-shaped building—designed by Frank Gehry—is a masterpiece in and of itself.

Eiffel Tower

You had to be expecting this one, right? There is no city-landmark pairing as iconic as Paris and the Eiffel Tower, which has defined the skyline since 1887. For some of the best photo ops, head to Place du Trocadéro , an elevated, open space with a stellar view of the tower.

Who needs a reason to visit the Panthéon ? Its gorgeous neoclassical architecture is lure enough. Don't forget to look up.

La Maison Rose

Since the 19th century, Montmartre has served as the bohemian hub of Paris’s creative and nightlife communities. The neighborhood has an endless string of postcard-perfect shops, but few are quite as recognizable as La Maison Rose—a rosy pink restaurant sitting pretty on a street corner.

Musée de l’Orangerie

Musée de l'Orangerie —located at the far end of the Tuileries Gardens—strengthens the case that Paris’s smaller museums are just as important as, say, the Louvre. Plus, it’s the only place you can stand in awe of Monet’s famous Nymphéas (Water Lily) murals.

Arc de Triomphe

As if the views of the Arc de Triomphe aren’t stunning enough, the views from the Arc de Triomphe are even more incredible. It's a pretty claustrophobic climb to the top, but the fresh air and 360-degree views of Paris are well worth it.

Musée d'Orsay

A vast collection of Impressionist artworks is the focus at the Musée d’Orsay , Paris’s second most-visited museum. But don’t forget to look past the artwork for a moment to admire the arched ceiling, a reminder of the building’s past as a train station.

Rue Crémieux

This little throughway in the 12th arrondissement might just be the most charming street in all of Paris. Just beware of the fashion influencers and Instagram celebs trying to take advantage of those pastel-colored backdrops.

Palace of Versailles

Though it technically lies just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is an essential stop on any City of Light itinerary. The former residence of King Louis XIV is a study in opulence, with the Hall of Mirrors and manicured gardens drawing some 15 million visitors each year.

Palais-Royal

The Palais-Royal complex is in some ways Paris in a nutshell: shops, cafés, art, history, architecture, and spectacular gardens, all across the street from the Louvre. Keep an eye out for Instagram photoshoots around the Colonnes de Buren , an art installation consisting of black-and-white-striped columns of varying heights.

Musée Rodin

We make this a stop on every trip to Paris, and sometimes, we don't even go inside. Musée Rodin is a light-filled estate with a serene garden filled with sculptures like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell . It's as intimate and personal (and relatively uncrowded) a museum-going experience as you'll get in the city.

Place de la Concorde

Despite its macabre history (it was the site of guillotine executions during the French Revolution), this public square is now one of the most beautiful places in Paris. Landmarks like the Luxor Obelisk and mermaid-filled fountain only add to the glamour.

Galeries Lafayette

On the famed Boulevard Haussmann, Galeries Lafayette is a department store known for its upscale French products and stunning neo-Byzantine stained-glass cupola. If you can swing it, visit during December to see one of the world’s grandest Christmas displays .

Pont Alexandre III

This ornate, Beaux-Arts–style bridge connects the Left and Right Banks of Paris, and is one of the biggest tourist photo-ops in the city. We get it: With all those gilded statues and river views, the selfie urge is real.

Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier is one of the most opulent Beaux-Arts buildings in Paris. Prepare to be dazzled by the grand marble staircase, gilded chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings.

Sainte-Chapelle

Photos of Sainte-Chapelle are apt to take your breath away, but they hardly do justice to this Gothic chapel on Ile de la Cité. After struggling your way up the narrow spiral staircases to the upper chapel, that first glimpse of the 50-foot stained glass windows is an experience you’ll never forget.

Saint-Germain

Not only is this 6th arrondissement neighborhood the cocoa capital of Paris , but it also happens to be extremely picturesque, with cobbled streets and pretty French balconies everywhere you look.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Pretty much everything in Paris is next-level beautiful—even its cemeteries skew more divine than dismal. Spend an overcast afternoon walking across Père Lachaise’s 108 acres, then pay your respects at the graves of Gertrude Stein and Oscar Wilde.

Sacré-Coeur

Second in height only to the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Coeur is a towering Romano-Byzantine basilica one very steep climb up into Montmarte. Everything about it—its architecture, its views from the hilltop—inspires awe.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Featuring cliffs, lakes, and waterfalls, the 62-acre Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is an au naturel alternative to Paris’s more groomed, rigidly formal parks. Hike up rocky elevations to catch amazing views of the city, including the aforementioned Sacré-Coeur.

Jardin des Tuileries

This perfectly manicured park also has the advantage of a perfect location—turn one direction and you'll find the Louvre, turn the other, Place de la Concorde. Walk the entire length to really admire the formal French garden design of the 17th century.

Musée du Louvre

The Louvre is famously crowded—it is the most-visited museum in the world, after all. But even if you aren’t willing to fight a hundred camera-wielding tourists to see the Mona Lisa, at least stroll past the museum to see I.M. Pei’s famous glass pyramid.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Open for more than a century, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is one of the most elegant, fashionable, and surprisingly playful hotels in all of Paris. Its signature red awnings are best enjoyed with a side of Michelin stars, at restaurant La Cour Jardin's ivy-covered terrace.

River Seine

The River Seine is essentially the beating heart of Paris, bordering half of the French capital's arrondissements. We’re partial to views of the river at dusk, but thanks to a few recent additions—a floating hotel and pedestrian-only walkway , for starters—the watery pathway is pretty damn gorgeous around the clock.

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29 beautiful places in Paris everyone should visit (at least) once

By Caitlin Morton

Compiling a list of the most beautiful places in Paris is no easy task. The city has a nearly endless supply of charming shops, artsy museums, boutique hotels, and world-famous landmarks—so choosing just a few dozen of those sites takes a good deal of restraint.

Still, we were able to put together a collection of Parisian wonders that we feel encapsulate this great city best—from the iconic Eiffel Tower to the romantic banks of the Seine River, with plenty of bookstores and cathedrals in between.

If you’re planning a trip to the City of Light, be sure to add these must-visit places to your itinerary. And even if you’ve already experienced most of these attractions, the wonderful thing about Paris is that every repeat visit unveils something new about the city. Whether it’s your first or fifth time walking along the cobblestoned streets of Saint-Germain or hearing the bells toll from Notre-Dame, you’ll find that the charm of Paris transcends cliche.

With gilded history reflected across so many arrondissements, here are 29 of the most beautiful places in Paris.

This article has been updated since its original publish date.

Jardin du Luxembourg

One of the most famous green spaces in Paris (and even greener during the spring), Jardin du Luxembourg is a favorite spot for locals to stroll and relax. While the overall vibe here is quite grand and regal, there are still intimate corners to be found.

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel

Hôtel de Crillon, A Rosewood Hotel has long been one of Paris’s most fabulous grande dames, but the property became even more luxurious after unveiling its four-year renovation in 2017. The current iteration features Karl Lagerfeld–designed suites, dreamy terraces for afternoon tea, and a world-class spa with a glittering indoor pool.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame

When you think of French Gothic architecture, chances are you think of Notre-Dame . Although the cathedral’s spires were destroyed in a devastating fire in 2019, the iconic facade and rose windows still draw massive crowds—and serve as a testament to the enduring beauty of Paris.

Musée Jacquemart-André

Once the home of a refined, art-collecting couple, Musée Jacquemart-André now serves as a museum with works from Rembrandt, Bellini, Botticelli, and more. The 19th-century mansion is just as much of a draw, with grand marble staircases and gallery walls that redefine #apartmentenvy.

Shakespeare and Company

A former haunt of Ernest Hemingway and Gertrude Stein, Shakespeare and Company is as historical as it is charming. Bibliophiles could spend hours perusing the bargain racks on the sidewalk (especially on a sunny afternoon), ideally followed by a slice of lemon pie at the on-site café.

Fondation Louis Vuitton

Open since 2014, this spectacular museum is home to some of the city’s best contemporary art. But we think the sailboat-shaped building—designed by Frank Gehry—is a masterpiece in and of itself.

Eiffel Tower

You had to be expecting this one, right? There is no city-landmark pairing as iconic as Paris and the Eiffel Tower, which has defined the skyline since 1887. For some of the best photo ops, head to Place du Trocadéro , an elevated, open space with a stellar view of the tower.

Who needs a reason to visit the Panthéon ? Its gorgeous neoclassical architecture is lure enough. Don't forget to look up.

Muskaan Chandrapota

Shalba Sarda

Aishwarya Venkatraman

La Maison Rose

Since the 19th century, Montmartre has served as the bohemian hub of Paris’s creative and nightlife communities. The neighborhood has an endless string of postcard-perfect shops, but few are quite as recognizable as La Maison Rose—a rosy pink restaurant sitting pretty on a street corner.

Musée de l’Orangerie

Musée de l'Orangerie —located at the far end of the Tuileries Gardens—strengthens the case that Paris’s smaller museums are just as important as, say, the Louvre. Plus, it’s the only place you can stand in awe of Monet’s famous Nymphéas (Water Lily) murals.

Arc de Triomphe

As if the views of the Arc de Triomphe aren’t stunning enough, the views from the Arc de Triomphe are even more incredible. It's a pretty claustrophobic climb to the top, but the fresh air and 360-degree views of Paris are well worth it.

Musée d'Orsay

A vast collection of Impressionist artworks is the focus at the Musée d’Orsay , Paris’s second most-visited museum. But don’t forget to look past the artwork for a moment to admire the arched ceiling, a reminder of the building’s past as a train station.

Rue Crémieux

This little throughway in the 12th arrondissement might just be the most charming street in all of Paris. Just beware of the fashion influencers and Instagram celebs trying to take advantage of those pastel-colored backdrops.

Palace of Versailles

Though it technically lies just outside of Paris, the Palace of Versailles is an essential stop on any City of Light itinerary. The former residence of King Louis XIV is a study in opulence, with the Hall of Mirrors and manicured gardens drawing some 15 million visitors each year.

Palais-Royal

The Palais-Royal complex is in some ways Paris in a nutshell: shops, cafés, art, history, architecture, and spectacular gardens, all across the street from the Louvre. Keep an eye out for Instagram photoshoots around the Colonnes de Buren , an art installation consisting of black-and-white-striped columns of varying heights.

Musée Rodin

We make this a stop on every trip to Paris, and sometimes, we don't even go inside. Musée Rodin is a light-filled estate with a serene garden filled with sculptures like The Thinker and The Gates of Hell . It's as intimate and personal (and relatively uncrowded) a museum-going experience as you'll get in the city.

Place de la Concorde

Despite its macabre history (it was the site of guillotine executions during the French Revolution), this public square is now one of the most beautiful places in Paris. Landmarks like the Luxor Obelisk and mermaid-filled fountain only add to the glamour.

Galeries Lafayette

On the famed Boulevard Haussmann, Galeries Lafayette is a department store known for its upscale French products and stunning neo-Byzantine stained-glass cupola. If you can swing it, visit during December to see one of the world’s grandest Christmas displays .

Pont Alexandre III

This ornate, Beaux-Arts–style bridge connects the Left and Right Banks of Paris, and is one of the biggest tourist photo-ops in the city. We get it: With all those gilded statues and river views, the selfie urge is real.

Palais Garnier

Palais Garnier is one of the most opulent Beaux-Arts buildings in Paris. Prepare to be dazzled by the grand marble staircase, gilded chandeliers, and frescoed ceilings.

Sainte-Chapelle

Photos of Sainte-Chapelle are apt to take your breath away, but they hardly do justice to this Gothic chapel on Ile de la Cité. After struggling your way up the narrow spiral staircases to the upper chapel, that first glimpse of the 50-foot stained glass windows is an experience you’ll never forget.

Saint-Germain

Not only is this 6th arrondissement neighborhood the cocoa capital of Paris , but it also happens to be extremely picturesque, with cobbled streets and pretty French balconies everywhere you look.

Père Lachaise Cemetery

Pretty much everything in Paris is next-level beautiful—even its cemeteries skew more divine than dismal. Spend an overcast afternoon walking across Père Lachaise’s 108 acres, then pay your respects at the graves of Gertrude Stein and Oscar Wilde.

Sacré-Coeur

Second in height only to the Eiffel Tower, Sacré-Coeur is a towering Romano-Byzantine basilica one very steep climb up into Montmarte. Everything about it—its architecture, its views from the hilltop—inspires awe.

Parc des Buttes-Chaumont

Featuring cliffs, lakes, and waterfalls, the 62-acre Parc des Buttes-Chaumont is an au naturel alternative to Paris’s more groomed, rigidly formal parks. Hike up rocky elevations to catch amazing views of the city, including the aforementioned Sacré-Coeur.

Jardin des Tuileries

This perfectly manicured park also has the advantage of a perfect location—turn one direction and you'll find the Louvre, turn the other, Place de la Concorde. Walk the entire length to really admire the formal French garden design of the 17th century.

Musée du Louvre

The Louvre is famously crowded—it is the most-visited museum in the world, after all. But even if you aren’t willing to fight a hundred camera-wielding tourists to see the Mona Lisa, at least stroll past the museum to see I.M. Pei’s famous glass pyramid.

Hôtel Plaza Athénée

Open for more than a century, Hôtel Plaza Athénée is one of the most elegant, fashionable, and surprisingly playful hotels in all of Paris. Its signature red awnings are best enjoyed with a side of Michelin stars, at restaurant La Cour Jardin's ivy-covered terrace.

River Seine

The River Seine is essentially the beating heart of Paris, bordering half of the French capital's arrondissements. We’re partial to views of the river at dusk, but thanks to a few recent additions—a floating hotel and pedestrian-only walkway , for starters—the watery pathway is pretty damn gorgeous around the clock. ** First published on Condé Nast Traveller UK **

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• Paris in the Spring: 15 Things to See and Do

Have you booked a short break in Paris? Explore our list of Inspector-approved activities to enjoy the warmer weather in the French capital.

Things to do in Paris

Paris by The MICHELIN Guide

See the Paris guide

Wondering what to do in Paris ? Not sure how to make the most of the city in the beautiful springtime? The MICHELIN Guide has got you covered! With our selection of 15 fabulous spots in and around the city, you can make the most of the milder weather and go full Emily in Paris. Channel your inner Parisian at the best restaurants with outside tables; enjoy a picnic or admire the cherry blossom at the prettiest gardens and parks; and discover the best ice cream shops, open-air markets, and flea markets.

1- Bask in the sun on one of the capital's 3,000 terraces

Rooftop spaces with a bird's-eye view of the city, leafy courtyards sheltered from sight and the noise of the street… in Paris, some restaurant terraces are real treasures, jealously guarded by those in the know. With an intimate terrace hidden from view, Apicius is set in a sumptuous 18th-century mansion akin to a small palace; overlooking the River Seine and the Eiffel Tower, Monsieur Bleu is ensconced in the Palais de Tokyo; and then there is the impressive terrace of Michelin-Starred Le Tout-Paris , a brasserie perched on the seventh floor of the Cheval Blanc hotel  (3 MICHELIN Keys). From Saint-Germain to Montmartre, via the Eiffel Tower, discover all the loveliest terraces in Paris!

More good news for fans of outdoor dining is that this year, as every year since 2021, the capital's 3,000 or so outdoor cafés will be allowed to expand and overflow onto the sidewalk too. Even better: from 1st April to 31st October 2024, these pop-up terraces will be open until midnight (instead of their usual closing time of 10pm).

2- Go bargain-hunting outside, from the bouquinistes to brocanteurs

The return of warmer weather means getting out in the fresh air! The City of Paris regularly publishes a list of the best flea markets. But for anyone who loves antiques and vintage design, the best place to go remains the Puces de Saint-Ouen, the world's largest flea market, where antique dealers and brocanteurs (second-hand dealers) sell their wares. This Marché aux Puces is spread over 7 hectares and encompasses no fewer than 11 different markets and over 2,000 stalls and shops. Furniture, bronze ornaments, lights, tableware, jewelry, books, archaeological finds… Pick up a rare piece as you wander through the narrow streets of this bohemian market founded in 1885, or sit on the terrace of a café and listen to a gypsy jazz concert. Another typically Parisian point of interest: the bouquinistes . These are booksellers who set up on the Right Bank of the River Seine, from Pont Marie to the Quai du Louvre, and on the Left Bank, from the Quai de la Tournelle to Quai Voltaire – they specialize in old editions and second-hand books.

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3- Picnic in a park with a view of cherry trees blossoming

If you ask a Parisian what their favorite springtime activity is, the chances are they'll say having a picnic. If you're lucky enough to be in the capital during that brief period when the cherry trees are in bloom, then your timing is perfect! In the Jardin des Plantes, the impressive 'Shirotae' Japanese cherry tree stands at 8m tall, and its branches form a giant parasol measuring 12m across. Square Marie-Trintignant on the edge of the historical Marais has a number of benches overlooking the nearby Seine. But if you're a true cherry blossom fan, the Parc de Sceaux is the place to go to see a remarkable floral explosion. From 30th March to 28th April 2024, the park is celebrating Hanami, the Japanese festival marking the blossoming of the sakura (cherry trees) – of which there are more than 150 scattered across the 180 hectare estate. Other green spaces where you can relax on the grass and tuck into your picnic are the Luxembourg Gardens, the Champ de Mars at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the Buttes Chaumont, and Parc de Belleville, which commands one of the best views in the capital from its hilltop location. And let's not forget Parc Montsouris, in the very south of Paris.

4- Stock up on top-notch produce at the best markets

Would Paris be Paris without its countless food markets? With stalls packed with mouth-watering produce from all over France, they illustrate Parisians' obsession with good food. From the stalls of the famous Marché des Enfants Rouges to the crowded paths of the Marché d'Aligre, take a stroll through The MICHELIN Guide's favorite Parisian markets .

5- Hire a license-free boat or embark on a cruise

With Marin d'Eau Douce, hire a license-free electric boat and navigate the waters at your own pace, whether with friends, family or a date. Alternatively, hop aboard one of the famous Bateaux-Mouches, Vedettes de Paris or Bateaux Parisiens for a River Seine cruise taking in sights such as the Invalides, Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, the Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower. At night, with its illuminated bridges and monuments, the capital feels like a life-size film set. The Seine doesn't have a monopoly on Parisian waterways. Enjoyable cruises are also organized on Canal Saint-Martin, Canal de l'Ourcq, and the River Marne. Paris Canal takes you alongside the Musée d'Orsay, the Philharmonie, and La Géode; Canauxrama offers a range of cruise formats, from an introduction to the Paris of Parisians to a full-day exploration of the banks of the River Marne.

6- Savor the best ice creams and sorbets in Paris

Just a stone's throw from the Sacré Coeur Basilica, at 16 Place des Abbesses, Une Glace à Paris came up with the concept of offering outdoor seating in the form of deckchairs. Their delicious sorbets and ice creams are designed by Emmanuel Ryon (a Meilleur Ouvrier de France Glacier and World Pastry Champion) and Olivier Ménard. You can of course also order your cornet to take with you as you explore the streets of Montmartre. Head for the most popular sights, from Café des Deux Moulins, made famous by the film Amélie, to the bronze bust of the singer Dalida at the top of rue de l'Abreuvoir. On Île Saint Louis, Berthillon has become a real institution, having reigned supreme since the 1950s. Their recipes are guaranteed to contain no artificial colors or preservatives, and the menu features around 40 flavors on any given day (there are over 90 altogether): marron glacé, blackcurrant, mango, roasted pineapple with basil… all delicious!

7- Admire the greatest masterpieces at the European Night of Museums

Around mid-May, just before summer is in full swing, a magical night takes place in Paris. The European Night of Museums is a not-to-be-missed event organized by the Ministry of Culture, offering free evening entry to over 3,000 museums in France and Europe. As night falls, soak up the festive atmosphere with new routes, guided tours, open-air events, live shows, music, and culinary delights! In Paris, the Musée d'Orsay, Fondation Louis Vuitton, and Centre Pompidou will be welcoming you free of charge for this 20th edition, which falls on Saturday 18th May 2024. It's also an opportunity to visit the Louvre, as well as its eponymous brasserie with tables set up beneath the arcades of this quintessentially Haussmann-style building. But take note: you'll need to pre-book!

8- Get romantic in the gardens of the Musée de la Vie Romantique

South of Montmartre, on the other side of Boulevard de Clichy, the bucolic ‘Museum of Romantic Life’ is well worth a visit. From the ground floor (where writer George Sand's room has been recreated) to the first floor (dedicated to painter Ary Scheffer), it sweeps us back to the 19th century. But the main draw of this private mansion is its foliage-kissed terrace – one of the most idyllic in the capital, complete with an English-style tearoom, Rose Bakery. At a remove from the hustle and bustle, this green space is an oasis of calm in the heart of the 9th arrondissement.

9- Visit the Opéra, the Eiffel Tower… and the best restaurants in the area!

Kill two birds with one stone: Avoid the tourist traps and confidently head to these top restaurants located close to Paris's most beautiful monuments , not forgetting the excellent bistro Le Maquis , just a 15 minute walk from Montmartre.

10- Get a bird's-eye view of Paris: belvederes, rooftops and balloon rides

Springtime in Paris (usually) means clear skies. From the Belvédère de Belleville to the Tour d'Argent or the Jules Verne restaurant in the Eiffel Tower, from the upper terrace of the Arc de Triomphe to our favorite rooftops , see Paris from a different angle at these sky-high venues! If you want to go even higher, the Ballon de Paris Generali – in the Parc André Citroën (15th arrondissement) on the banks of the Seine – promises an unforgettable experience for young and old, from 0 to 99 years. Aboard the world's largest hot-air balloon, see the capital and its monuments from 150m above the ground.

11- Eat macarons

The famous almond-based sweet is distinguished by its texture, which is at once both crunchy and soft. The most famous brands are Ladurée, Lenôtre, Dalloyau, Fauchon, and Pierre Hermé, but there are also noteworthy lesser-known names; for instance, Jean-Paul Hévin, one of the best chocolatiers in Paris, has created a delicious macaron with Peruvian Grand Cru dark chocolate. There's also Chez Carette (Place des Vosges and Place du Tertre) and Yannick Lefort, another macaron specialist, in the 6th arrondissement. And don't forget Le Jardin Sucré (17th arrondissement), whose shop is nestled next to Parc Monceau. Get ready for a rainbow of flavors! For the record, it was Queen Catherine de' Medici, of Italian origin, who imported the macaron to France in the 16th century. It was a roaring success, shooting to fame all over France during the Renaissance and giving rise to the Amiens Macaron, the Saint-Emilion Macaron, and the Nancy Macaron. The Parisian version, also known as the Macaron Gerbet, only appeared in the 19th century.

12- Take a dip in the most stunning open-air, Art Deco swimming pool in Paris

Luxury hotel Molitor Paris has taken over the Molitor swimming pool , a legendary venue from the 1920s up to the 1980s. Tastefully renovated by architect Jean-Philippe Nuel, the outdoor pool has had extra floors added, including a roof terrace overlooking the city. It also boasts a Clarins spa and a fantastic restaurant run by an award-winning chef. Behind the ultra-contemporary veneer, the site's Art Deco heritage has been preserved, not least the original studded portholes and 1940s furniture. Access to the swimming pool is, of course, included in the room rate.

13- Order an excellent specialty coffee… or the best hot chocolate!

There was a time when the average espresso at a Parisian café was undrinkable, being dubbed ‘jus de chaussette’ (‘sock juice’), but over the last decade the capital has been making up for lost time. When it comes to coffee, Paris has nothing left to prove and now even boasts a number of quality coffee roasteries. If you're not a fan of caffeine, you can fall back on our best Parisian haunts for a hot chocolate. Drink in or take away if you can, to sip as you wander the streets of the capital.

14- Enjoy the gardens of Versailles, its fountains and restaurants

Considered among the most fabulous in Europe and the world, the royal gardens of Versailles come into their own in spring. Take in the Palace of Versailles fountain show, in which the water interacts with lights and music. Then refuel at Le Bistrot du 11 , just a stone's throw from the palace, one of five establishments in Île-de-France (the Paris region) to have recently been awarded a Bib Gourmand .

15- Watch a tennis match at Roland Garros

The French Open is back from 20th May to 9th June for another championship! Located in the west of Paris, at Porte d'Auteuil, on the edge of the Bois de Boulogne, the Roland Garros Stadium hosts this Grand Slam tournament every year, as well as the Paris Major Premier Padel. The sun will hopefully be shining, so don't forget your hat and sunglasses. Celebrities are often to be seen watching from the stands, so you might even bump into a famous face while you’re here!

Illustration image © Dan Asaki / Unsplash

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