the best day trips from paris

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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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EUROPE , FRANCE

19 unforgettable day trips from paris by train.

Paris is not only an amazing European city that deserves your time, it’s also a great hub for day trips to stunning castles, charming towns, other cities, and to a few of the neighboring countries.

With the fast trains running these days, there are so many day trips from Paris by train you can choose from so you don’t have to get stuck in traffic. Trust me, you just don’t want to waste your time on that.

I’ve driven into Paris before and it’s such a waste of time. You can literally take the train to London and back in the same time you try to get out of Paris by car during rush hour. Not to talk about the environmental impact of driving in those queues.

You should at least spend 2 to 4 days in Paris to get the most out of the city, but if you have more time after that, make sure you take at least one of these train trips from Paris.

As the city is situated in the northern part of France, you can easily get on train rides from Paris to the neighboring countries, explore, and be back the same day.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn commission from qualifying purchases.

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How to take the train from Paris

There are many big train stations in Paris and I’ll go through the main ones. You can buy your tickets at the train station on ticket machines with cash or card, in the ticket office, or online .

One of my top Paris travel tips when traveling by train is to check if your ticket is pre-validated or not. You have to validate your ticket before you board your train. In case you forget, look for the conductor before he or she finds you, to make them validate it for you.

Gare du Nord

Paris has several large train stations, Gare du Nord being the main train station and Europe’s busiest. From here, you can take the high-speed trains Eurostar to London, or TGV to pretty much all over France and beyond.

Gare Saint-Lazare

Gare Saint-Lazare is the oldest train station in Paris and second busiest. The train station serves trains to the north-west of the country.

Gare de l’Est

Gare de l’Est is mainly known for the Venice-Simplon Orient Express, known from Agatha Christia’s crime book “Murder on the Orient Express”.

But the train station serves most of north-east of France and neighboring countries.

Gare de Lyon

Gare de Lyon is the third busiest train station in the country and serves trains towards the southeast and east. Dijon, Lyon, Switzerland, Italy, and Spain are some of the destinations from there.

Gare d’Austerlitz

This train station has a dark history. It was used for transporting Jews to the camps during World War 2. On the other hand, it was also where they evacuated children to safety in the countryside.

Gare d’Austerlitz is the train station serving central and southern France.

Gare de Montparnasse

Gare de Montparnasse is said to be the world’s second-ugliest building. How is that for being Paris?

Nevertheless, it’s a useful building. It gets you to all of the western and southwest of the country and as far as northern Spain.

👉 PRE-BOOK TRAIN TICKETS HERE

Best day trips from Paris by train

Are you ready to check out train trips from Paris? There are some pretty cool destinations here that you might not have thought about.

The amazing city of Metz, mainly recognized for its astounding cathedral, is one of the best train trips from Paris and the perfect day trip. The charming city is flourishing with flowerbeds and green spaces, especially along the river and there are plenty of things to do in Metz .

The Gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral is one of the tallest in Europe, with its 42 meters, and can be seen all the way from the highway when passing the city. Its construction started in 1220 and took more than 300 years to finish.

Stroll through the charming Imperial Quarter or visit the permanent covered market, Marché Couvert, a must for any foodie.

Another basilica worth visiting is the Église St-Pierre-aux-Nonnains, one of Europe’s oldest churches dating back to 380 CE. However, the structure was first declared a house of God in the 7th century. Originally it was built to be the gym of a Roman spa.

Visit Metz Art & History Museum or marvel at the medieval architecture at Place Saint-Louis, in the old town. Close to the square you also find the church of Saint-Maximum which is well worth a visit.

Take the train from Gare de l’Est to Metz.

By Lily of Imperfect Idealist

Dijon, France  is the capital of Burgundy and the birthplace of Dijon mustard. The town is small but charming and is easily explored by foot in one day.

There are multiple trains from Paris to Dijon daily; the cheaper regional train (TER) takes 3 hours one way, and the faster train (TGV) takes 1,5 hours.

Dijon is perhaps best known for its mustard, which you can sample in the Maille or Edmond Fallot mustard shops. Edmond Fallot is especially fun, as they have a mustard vending machine.

The architecture of Dijon is also famous, featuring half-timbered houses and colorful tiled roofs. For the best examples of this traditional Burgundian architecture (and a great spot for those Instagram pics), visit Place François Rude and Hôtel Aubriot.

Rue Verrerie is another beautiful place to wander and admire, as it’s full of half-timbered houses, dessert shops, and unique stores.

If you’re a fan of museums, you can visit the nearby Musée des beaux-arts for free; be sure to at least walk around the courtyard, as the museum’s white stone architecture is beautiful – the building actually used to be a palace for the dukes of Burgundy!

Before heading back to the train station at the end of the day, stop by at the Jardin de l’Arquebuse, a nearby botanical garden with a free museum of natural history.

Strolling through the garden is always pleasant, but is especially nice in the spring, with the flowers and wisteria-covered archway. 

By Elisa of Travel France Bucketlist

Colmar is one of the most beautiful towns in the French region of Grand Est and a must-stop of the  Alsace Wine Route  in Eastern France. It is also one of the biggest towns so there are plenty of things to do in Colmar to keep you busy for a while.

Colmar is located 500km southeast of Paris, with fast connections by TGV train. The train ride from Paris Gare de l’Est to Colmar takes less than 3 hours and is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Paris by train.

People visit Colmar mainly for sightseeing, the town has beautiful traditional architecture of half-timbered houses. Colmar also has water canals which make the town even prettier.

It is possible to navigate some parts of the canals by small boats but the lines to get one are always long!

Colmar is the birthplace of Auguste Bartholdi, the French sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty in New York. The town has a small museum dedicated to him where visitors can learn more about this artist and his masterwork.

A day trip to Colmar is also a good opportunity to taste the regional cuisine and do some wine tastings and perhaps buy some bottles of your favorite wines.

Rambouillet

By Lucile of LucileHR

Located only one hour west from the capital, Rambouillet will be among your favorite day trips from Paris by train and a  great way to travel locally . It truly has something for everyone from nature, to culture, and even delicious cheese.

There are so many hikes you can do for all levels in the forest and whether you prefer a light stroll or long-distance running, you are sure to find a circuit you enjoy.

One of my favorites is the one going from Le Perray train station to Rambouillet’s, passing through beautiful lakes and rivers and going along a 17th-century aqueduct. It takes between 3 and 4 hours depending on the route.

The forest hosts a wide range of wildlife and is a protected natural space. If you’re lucky, you might even see one of the few Wallabies that chose Rambouillet as their new home after escaping from a nearby zoo.

After you’re done hiking, you can head to the Bergerie Nationale for some snacks. You’ll find fresh cheese made on-site, as well as all kind of dairy products. If you have kids or really like animals, you can also visit the farm and play with really cute goats.

If you are into culture, Rambouillet is also the place for you, as it used to be a residence for Kings, Emperors, and the summer residence of Presidents until 2009. Make sure you plan for a visit of the gardens, as they are really gorgeous.

By Wendy Werneth of The Nomadic Vegan

The name “Chartres” is virtually synonymous with the town’s magnificent Cathedral, which is undoubtedly the main attraction of any visit here.

It’s been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and is often referred to as the high point of French Gothic architecture. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Cathedral is remarkably well preserved, considering how old it is.

The two main highlights of the Cathedral are the fine sculptures on both the interior and exterior and the colorful stained glass windows.

Most of the windows were created between 1210 and 1250, while the sculptures range from the 12th to the 18th centuries. Those on the façade date from the construction of the original Gothic Cathedral, while the ones on the choir screen inside were a much later addition.

Once you’ve thoroughly explored the Cathedral, climb to the top of the tower for gorgeous views of Chartres town and the French countryside surrounding it. Supposedly you can even see the Eiffel Tower from here on a clear day, though you’d have to be pretty lucky with the weather.

Strolling through town, you’ll see plenty of picturesque half-timbered houses with flower pots in the windowsill.

There are several restaurants serving traditional French cuisine, and the Thai restaurant Le Pailin is probably the best option for vegetarians and vegans, though it can’t compare to the  great vegan restaurants in Paris . Trains run regularly between Paris Montparnasse and Chartres and take just over an hour.

By Leyla of Offbeat France

If you plan on visiting the best-known  chateaux of the Loire Valley , the city of Blois is the perfect jumping off point. Less than 1h 30 from Paris-Austerlitz, it’s the kind of day trip from Paris that can satisfy your yearnings for history, culture and discovery all in one.

Blois is known for its royal castle, first and foremost, the residence of kings for centuries and if you’re coming for a day, half of it should be spent exploring this extraordinary castle, with four distinct architectural styles and where, rumor has it, Catherine of Medici plotted and planned the downfall of her enemies.

With only a day to spend, you have a choice: you can explore Blois, or you can jump on the chateau Navette bus and spend the afternoon in either Chambord or Cheverny.

If you stay in Blois, walking around is the ideal way to see this town, with its many religious buildings and half-timbered houses. For the best photograph of the city, start walking away from the center of town and cross part of the bridge over the Loire, then look back.

The city as seen from the water is stunning, and if you can be there at sunset, even better.

Should you decide to visit another chateau, then Chambord will give you greatness and space, while Cheverny will entertain you (a museum in honour of Tintin plus a kennel with 150 hunting dogs) and delight you with its perfect decor.

Either way, you’ll return feeling you’ve been on a real journey, not only in space but in time.

Château de Chantilly

By Norbert of World in Paris

Château de Chantilly is one of the  best castles near Paris  to visit, a fairy-tale castle located in the town of the same name. It is not a royal castle but it is so pretty that it was admired (and sometimes envied) by Kings and Queens.

In addition, Château de Chantilly is surrounded by magnificent French-style gardens designed by André Le Notre, the same landscape designer who worked on the Gardens of Versailles.

Chantilly is very easy to reach by train. Trains to Chantilly Gouvieux train station leave hourly from Paris Gare du Nord for a train ride of 25 minutes. From the train station, it’s a pleasant 10-minute walk through the forest to reach Château de Chantilly.

Château de Chantilly was built in the 19th century by Henri d’Orleans, Duke of Daumale and grandson of King Louis-Philippe I, to replace a medieval construction which was destroyed during the French Revolution.

Henri d’Orléans was the greatest art collector of his time and used the château to display all his artworks and show them to his guests.

His collection of antique paintings is very large – only second after the Louvre – and visitors can see it displayed exactly like when the Duke was living in the castle.

Not far from the château, the Great Stables of the Princes de Condé with the Horse Museum are also interesting to visit. The entrance ticket to the Great Stables usually comes with an equestrian show.

By Larch of The Silver Nomad

The pretty city of Reims is just a short 46-minute train journey from Paris’ Gare de l’Est to the north-east of Paris. Full of history, four UNESCO World Heritage sites and the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, it is not to be missed.

The gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims is the first of the UNESCO World Heritage sites to be visited. For more than 1,000 years, the kings of France were crowned at the Cathedral. Famed for its stained-glass windows and statues, including the Smiling Angel, the 13 th  Century Cathedral saw the crowning of 33 French kings.

Next to the Cathedral is the Palace of Tau. The Palace which was once the residence of the Archbishops of Reims is now a museum which hold many of the items used in the coronations of the kings as well as statues and tapestries.

The Mars Gate, built in the 3 rd  Century AD, was a Roman-built set of four arches. Only one remains intact today, but at 32 metres long and 15 metres high and is highly decorated.

Reims is also the home to the St. Remi History Museum, the Reims-Champagne Automobile Museum, the art-deco Carnegie library, Gallo-Roman cryptoporticus, the 15th century Hotel Le Vergeur Museum, Reims Planetarium and the Reims Opera House.

No trip to Reims is complete without a visit to one of the champagne houses. There are many to choose from including Veuve Clicquot-Ponsardin, Taittinger, Pommery and Mumm. The perfect way to round off your day in Reims.

By Jonathan of Journey Maxx

As the last stop before going through the Channel Tunnel, Lille is perfectly situated almost equidistant between Paris, London and Brussels. It makes it to the list of the best Paris day trips by train, and can be reached in only an hour.

What is most striking about this city is how much closer it feels to Flemish rather than Gallic in influence and especially when looking at its buildings. This most notable in the Place Charles de Gaulle in the heart of Lille and the ornate details of La Vielle Bourse and the Belfry Tower.

If there is one unique thing to Lille you must try then it has to be the glorious sweet treat known as a Merveilleux. This concoction of what happens when you combine a meringue with a chocolate gateau cake is the pride and joy of this region and no better place to sample one than in the Aux Merveilleux bakery.

There is also the Palais des Beaux Artes which is also an essential place to visit to see a wide selection of artworks from the 15th Century to the 20th, and a natural history museum as well worth checking out too.

By Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

Sitting on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is a fantastic day trip from Paris by train. The city can easily be reached by high-speed train in only 2 hours. Being on the border, you get an interesting blend of culture that makes up this Alsatian city.

One of the highlights here is the massive Gothic style Strasbourg Cathedral. It’s one of the tallest churches in the world and can easily be seen while walking around Strasbourg’s Petite France historic district.

Petite France is full of beautiful half-timbered buildings that line canals branching from the Rhine River. One of the popular things to do here is to take a river cruise along the canals to see the city. If you are  visiting France in the winter , this is the perfect day trip to explore a traditional Christmas Market. Strasbourg hosts a massive Christmas Market every year that is spread across the old town and is lit up by Christmas Trees and lights.

While in Strasbourg, you should be sure to try some of the traditional foods. There are plenty of bakeries, candy shops, and restaurants set around Petite France that are worth popping into.

Strasbourg has a completely different vibe than Paris and feels more like exploring a fairy-tale village than a city. Its compact historic district is perfect to spend a day in to explore more of France.  

By Stephanie of History Fangirl

Perhaps the most popular day trip from Paris by train, visiting Versailles is easy and, quite simply, a must-do on your trip.

If you’re learning anything about the French Revolution during your time in Paris, you need to see the opulent palace for yourself to understand the inequality the people of France were facing leading up to it.

To get to Versailles by train, you will need to buy a ticket to the Versailles-Chateua Rive Gauche station. The cost to get from Paris to Versailles on this train line is less than eight Euros per person for the round-trip fare.

When you get your ticket, you will receive two tickets, one for each way of the destination. Hold on to the second ticket!

Once you arrive in the town of Versailles, you have a quick fifteen-minute walk to get to the palace. You should purchase a skip-the-line ticket if you’re arriving after the park opens.

Getting a skip-the-line ticket, which you can purchase ahead of time or in the office, allows you to go straight in and avoid spending what could be hours in line!

While here, tour the main palace, little Versaille, and Trianon, as well as the gardens. I encourage you to spend your entire day here since there is so much to see and do at Versailles.

If you drink, you can purchase a small bottle of champagne to enjoy on the grounds. You can also spend time pursuing the gift shop, which is a great place to look for souvenirs from your trip to France!

Disneyland Paris

By Krisztina of She Wanders Abroad

If you’re planning to  visit Paris  and you’re a Disney fan, you can’t miss out on visiting Disneyland Paris! It’s only a one-hour train ride away from the city, which makes it one of the best day trips from Paris.

In order to get to Disneyland Paris, you need to board a RER A train at Gare de Lyon and it will take you directly to the entrance. If you have a Navigo Pass or any other type of passes that are valid for Zone 5, you can use them for the train and you don’t even need to buy a separate train ticket.

However, if you don’t have such passes, you can buy a one-way or return ticket at one of the ticket booths at the station.

There are two parks right next to each other, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.

You can buy a combined ticket which is valid for both parks or you can buy tickets separately as well. Depending on the number of parks you want to visit and your selected dates, you can usually get an adult ticket between 59-109 EUR for one day.

There are many interesting rides inside the park and it’s impossible to visit everything in just one day, so if you have more time, you can buy a multi-day pass as well. For an even more memorable experience, stay at one of the hotels onsite!

Day trips from Paris by train to other countries

There are also a whole lot of amazing day trips from Paris by train to other countries you can take. Here are some of the best!

London, England

By Sarah of ASocialNomad

Taking the Eurostar from Paris to London for a day trip is quick and easy, the train takes less than 2 hours and 30 minutes and you can maximize your time by planning for your day out in London ahead, having breakfast or a snooze if you get up early for the trip! 

There are 17 trains a day taking this route!  The train takes you right into the center of London where you can kick off your day by taking a tour on one of London’s iconic red double-decker buses. 

Once you’ve seen things from ground level head to the top of St Paul’s Cathedral for an awesome view. 

You can easily add some museums to your London itinerary as so many of them are free to enter and we recommend the Natural History Museum for a great exploration on a quick trip.

Wrap up your your day in London with a cruise on the Thames or a trip up the London Eye to see darkness fall over the city and then zip back to St Pancras Station and catch your train back to Paris!

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

By Sharon of Dive into Philippines

Only two hours away by TGV from Paris is the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, one of those small countries that only European history seems to throw up. Bigger than a city-state (it’s Europe’s largest mini-state) there’s a lot to cover in a day trip.

That said, it is dominated by Luxembourg City in terms of things to do. By far the biggest city, it was once a strategically important fortress and one of the attractions of the city is to walk around the still impressive city fortifications, walls and casements.

My favourite attraction to visit in Luxembourg City is the Grand Ducal palace. They may not be the most well known royal family going around but they are nice enough to let people tour their palatial home over the summer months when they are taking their holidays or staying at their castle just out of town. As a real life palace, it is cool to visit.

For a small city, Luxembourg City has a lot of art galleries and museums. The Nazis stole a lot the country’s best historical works but there are some worthwhile contemporary galleries to visit if you enjoy art.

Of significant historical interest is the American war cemetery, located in Hamm on the edge of Luxembourg City, where General George S. Patton was buried following his death in 1945.

There’s more to do than just Luxembourg City in Luxembourg and the country has a good network of trains with frequent services. The station in Luxembourg City is the terminus for all the country’s lines and this also serves as the stop for TGV services departing from Gare du l’Est. From there it’s only a short walk into the heart of the city.

Brussels, Belgium

By Paula of Paula Pins The Planet

One of the best things about Europe is the ability to travel around quickly, easily, and cheaply. One of the best day trips from Paris by train is to Brussels. It’s only about 195 miles (314 km) direct from Gare du Nord in central Paris to Brussels-South Station in 1:25 hours. 

The best option is the high-speed Thalys train that you can book directly on their website. I recommend booking it as soon as you know your plans, as the standard class tickets start at $32 but can shoot up to $100 if you purchase them last minute. 

There are many amazing things you can see and experience on a day trip to Brussels , Belgium’s incredible capital. The good thing is that Brussels is a very compact town and the main sights can be visited on foot.  

Start your visit to Brussels at the Grote Markt (Grand-Place), considered one of the most important squares in Belgium. While there you can also visit the city museum and the Brussels Town Hall.

The cathedrals of St. Michael and St. Gudula, with the stunning gothic architecture, are so worth a visit too. Take a picture of the famous Manneken Pis Statue, it sounds weird, but it’s a classic tourist attraction. 

You can’t miss tasting Belgian waffles, they are to die for, and don’t forget to buy a large bag of Belgian chocolate to bring home, it is definitely the best chocolate in the world. 

Namur, Belgium

By Philipp of Journication

Destinations in Belgium? I’m sure that Brussels, Antwerp or Liège will be in the top 5. But certainly not Namur. You should reconsider: The capital of Wallonia offers great conditions for a nice city trip: Exciting history, a great old town and picturesque views.

You can reach Namur by train from Paris in around 3 hours – a reasonable distance for a day trip if you don’t have the time for a Wallonia road trip .

The old town can be easily reached on foot from the train station. Here you can experience the old splendor of Wallonia. The Place du Vieux Marché with the old stock exchange and the belfry, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly worth seeing. Funny sculptures in front of the stock exchange show the characters Joseph and Francois, the heraldic animal of Namur: The snail!

From there, you can stroll at a leisurely pace through the old town, over old marketplaces, past splendid merchants’ houses and for refreshment in one of the many restaurants and bars. Because what is Belgium famous for? – Right: good beer!

The huge citadel shows the strategic importance of Namur at the confluence of the Maas and Sambre rivers. From above you have a magnificent view of the old town and the entire region.

There is a lot to discover in the extensive fortress area. Old gates, defense towers and the castle of Namur. The guided tours in the underground facilities and exhibitions, which provide a lot of information about the history of the city and the citadel, are particularly exciting.

Liege, Belgium

By Paulina of Paulina on the Road

If you’re planning for day trips from Paris by train, make sure to book a ticket for Liege, Belgium. It is the third-largest city of Belgium in terms of population and likewise is an attractive tourist place. 

It’s worth visiting Liege, Belgium, because of its unique style of churches, buildings, museums, art galleries, and many more, all designed like-heaven.

This city is also recommended for offering treats and amazing food such as chocolates, waffles, and Belgian fries. Of course, you’ll indulge in the best Belgian beer too! Additionally, various events and festivals operate throughout the year in Liege. 

Alongside this, there are various  things to do in Liege, Belgium . It includes touring historical places, like the Musee Des Beaux-Arts de Liege, Archeoforum of Liege, St Paul Cathedral, Church of St Bartholomew, Palace of the Prince-Bishops, Grand Curtius, and so on. Besides that, you can explore outdoor-activities, like climbing the Montagne de Bueren or marveling at the Liege-Guillemins Station.

For a day trip to Liege, Belgium, from Paris, it’s best to take a train as it covers more distance (approx. 373.1km) in a shorter time-duration (of 3hr and 50 min), as compared to a bus/car. Also, trains are readily available for this route as there are around 26 trains per day and two direct trains to Liege. 

Though, if you want to avoid paying a hefty amount, you need to book tickets beforehand, which generally costs almost $98 (€83). The best time to visit Liege, Belgium, is from May to October when the weather is exceptionally soothing, lively, and less humid. 

Bruges, Belgium

By Kat of World Wide Honeymoon

If you are dreaming of medieval architecture, romantic canals, and incredible food, then Bruges in Belgium should be on the top of your list of day trips from Paris by train!

A day trip to Bruges is perfectly do-able as it is only about 2,5 hours from Paris. One of the first things to do in Bruges is the Grote Markt, or the market square. This is home to the 12th century Belfry that you can also go inside and the Provincial Court. During the holiday season, the whole square turns into the most charming Christmas market too! 

After visiting the Grote Markt, a canal ride is a must to take in the stunning scenery, and, of course, a visit to a waffle shop like House of Waffles is necessary. Then, you’ll want to either visit a brewery like Bourgogne de Flanders or sip some tasty Belgian beer at a pub. 

Next up is a stop at the Church of Our Lady, and then you cannot leave without admiring the city at night with the bridges and trees lit up. Bruges is a stunningly beautiful place and small enough to make it the perfect spot for a day trip.

Rotterdam, The Netherlands

By Maartje of The Orange Backpack

One of the best day trips from Paris is the Dutch city of Rotterdam . The city is known for its modern architecture, street art and must-visit hotspots. One day should be enough to get to know this must-visit in the Netherlands, but you’ll for sure want to come back.

The best things to do in Rotterdam is walking around to spot the beautiful architecture and street art, stopping at some nice coffee and brunch places along the way. Or even better: rent a bike and bike around as the locals do.

One of your first stops will be the train station where you’ll arrive. The train platforms are beautiful during sunny days because of the light play from the glass ceiling. The main hall is a sight as well.

Then head to the yellow footbridge where you could stop at the rooftop of Op het Dak for breakfast or lunch with a view. The historic City Hall and Post Office will be along your route to the immense Markthal with its impressive ceiling painting and great food.

You might want to visit one of the yellow cube houses, have some drinks at the old harbor (‘Oude Haven’), go shopping at the Pannenkoekenstraat or Meent street or visit one of the museums at the museum park.

You can easily get to Rotterdam from Paris with the direct Thalys train. It takes just over 2,5 hours. 

Responsible day tripping

Let’s not forget to be responsible travelers when going on these amazing train rides from Paris. Make space for respecting and talking to the locals to learn more about the place you’re visiting. This will make the trip much more pleasant for the locals, especially in popular destinations like Colmar and London.

Take with you a reusable water bottle on your day trips from Paris so that you don’t have to buy single use plastic bottles on the way. If you’re an addict of coffee on the go, why not bring en eco-friendly reusable coffee cup too.

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The 14 Best Day Trips From Paris

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fontainebleau

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

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

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

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

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

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

Loire Valley

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

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

Auvers-sur-Oise

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

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

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

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

25 Most Magical Day Trips From Paris You'll Never Regret

These dreamy destinations are almost (almost!) as noteworthy as the City of Lights—and they're not all in France.

If you're not sure what your ideal 24-hour excursion looks like, we have 25 Paris day trip ideas to inspire you. From escapes on the periphery of the city to slightly farther destinations with completely distinct feels, every spot on this list deserves a bookmark. Some places aren't even in France at all; European day trip destinations like London and Luxembourg are a stone's throw away when you're in Paris. Plus, because each journey maxes out at about two hours each way (any that go slightly over are well worth it, we promise), if you play your cards right, you'll be back in Paris just in time for an apéritif.

Giverny, France

Home to the real-life inspiration for Monet's Water Lilies , Giverny makes our list for its convenience (the trip takes around 45 minutes each way on the train) as well as its iconic gardens. Monet's House and Gardens may be the reason you've made the journey, but the Musée des Impressionnismes is equally worthwhile for art lovers. Stop in a local restaurant for lunch—or unpack a picnic—and spend an afternoon wandering the water garden.

Reims, France

In an hour, you can be sipping Champagne in the French countryside. Swoon. Make pit stops at the Reims Cathedral and the Palace of Tau to fulfill your cultural quota before heading to the wineries. Reims has a long list of Champagne houses where you can tour the cellars and sign up for tastings. If you're feeling like a fancy post-tasting meal, the city is home to five Michelin-starred restaurants for the ultimate luxe end to an already-extravagant day.

Versailles, France

Undoubtedly the most famous Parisian day trip—and with good reason, as it's only around a half hour away on the RER train—Versailles is a bucket-list destination brimming with history. Book a tour or amble solo through the Château De Versailles and its grounds. (Don't miss Marie Antoinette's farm, The Queen's Hamlet , while you're there.) There's more to do than just palace-watching though: Pick up lunch at the open-air market in town and take your artisanal cheeses and fruit back to the gardens to enjoy possibly the most opulent picnic ever.

Lyon, France

The unofficial-official food capital of France, Lyon is only two hours away from Paris by train and offers a completely different big-city experience. Two rivers run through it, with Vieux Lyon (the old quarter) and its colorful houses on one side. Spend your day predominantly there, exploring the city's " traboules " (hidden passageways that are a product of the Renaissance) as well as the Basilique de Fourvière that sits atop a hill and is accessible via a funicular. If you plan your visit around one of the traditional bouchon restaurants serving hearty traditional Lyonnaise cuisine like coq au vin and paté, we fully support you.

Strasbourg, France

If you're visiting France around Christmas, a day trip to Strasbourg on the German border (around one hour and 45 minutes by train each way) is a must, if only for the famous Christkindelsmärik holiday markets where you can get last-minute shopping done while sipping mulled wine. Otherwise, don't miss the Petite France neighborhood to see the fairy-tale houses along the Rhine. You can also take a boat trip to explore the city by water.

Étretat, France

Jump on a fast two-hour train and head to this seaside town in Normandy. It's most famous for its white cliffs and rock formations, offering lots to do in the way of hikes and nature walks. The Jardins d'Étretat , a cliff-top garden that has views of the ocean, is an unusual but must-see spot. In the city, explore the Old Market in Maréchal Foch square for regional specialties to bring home.

Rouen, France

An hour and a half north of Paris lies Rouen, another bustling city on the Seine that expertly blends old and new. (Just look at the colors on those timbered houses!) Your first stop should be the Notre Dame Cathedral, which is both a Gothic masterpiece and the tallest cathedral in France. Since the region is known for its seafood, grab lunch in an Old Town bistro before gearing up for an afternoon of sightseeing. Since this is the city where Joan of Arc died, there's no shortage of homages: You can see a church, tower, and museum dedicated to the city's most famous historical figure.

Fontainebleau, France

The town of Fontainebleau (more specifically, the nearby Château de Fontainebleau ) is a UNESCO World Heritage site only about 50 minutes from Paris. Similar to Versailles, the palace itself is enough to take up a whole day: From exploring the gilded interior to walking along the canal and strolling the gardens, there's so much to see. If the weather's nice, you can even take a rowboat out onto Carps Pond .

Lille, France

Begin your day by grabbing one of the city's famous sweets, un merveilleux , at one of the many bakeries you'll find scattered around the historic Old Town . If you're an art history aficionado, the huge Palais des Beaux Arts is not to be missed. Avid readers should visit the book market that pops up every afternoon in the courtyard of the V ieille Bourse building—go with a tote bag and pick up a couple paperbacks to read on your hourlong train ride back to Paris.

Chantilly, France

Less than a half hour from Paris, the Château de Chantilly is a 1500s-era castle that's just as stately as Versailles—minus the hoards of tourists. The city itself has two other famous exports: Chantilly lace, a type of delicate lace made from black silk, and whipped cream. Though the latter's origins are not 100 percent known ( chantilly is the French word for "whipped cream"), you'll find plenty of spots around town to indulge in the sweet treat.

Auvers-sur-Oise, France

Auvers-sur-Oise has become synonymous with Van Gogh, as it's where the artist is buried. (You can even visit the room where he was living when he died at the Auberge Ravoux .) There are also a couple of noteworthy museums, like the Musee Daubigny , for fans of impressionist painter Daubigny, or the Absinthe Museum . Sitting on the outskirts of Paris, it takes about an hour to get to by train.

Colmar, France

Though it's just over two hours east of Paris, the extra train time is worth it. The Alsatian city is full of canals, with enough brightly colored houses dotting the water to fill an entire camera roll. Because the region has both French and German influences, you'll get a different take on French food: Try the tarte flambée , baeckeoffe , and coq au Riesling . Then, walk it all off with a stroll through Petite Venise's Quai de Poissonniers, considered to be the most photogenic street in the city. (That's saying something when the entire town looks like it was plucked out of a fairy tale.)

Barbizon, France

Also known as the painters' village, Barbizon inspired to artists from Monet to Renoir. The trip is around an hour from Paris and definitely a must-see for any art buffs, as the Musee de Barbizon houses a comprehensive collection of works by the city's past residents. You can also walk in the footsteps of these artists in the areas that inspired them (like the nearby forest of Fontainebleau ) via a guided or self-guided tour.

Deauville, France

The so-called Parisian Riviera is two hours from the city and offers the perfect opportunity for a beach fix without trekking all the way to the south. Deauville's beach and boardwalk have Art Deco huts and rainbow-colored umbrellas, making them especially picturesque. Further in, the Villa Strassburger and Casino Barrière are stunning odes to Belle Époque architecture.

London, England

We're going to venture outside of France for a minute (or a day). It's impossible to pack everything there is to see in London into one day, but here's a start: Head to Borough Market for an incredible selection of local and international delicacies before walking over the nearby Tower Bridge for views of the Thames. Up in Shoreditch, you'll find rows of vintage shops as well as some of the best curry in the city. Before hopping back on the Eurostar (which takes around two and a half hours), take the tube to Primrose Hill and watch the sun set over the park.

Bordeaux, France

There's the Wine Museum , wine tasting, and the Bordeaux Wine Festival in June, but even if you're not in it for a glass of red, this city has a lot to offer. It's a two-hour train ride from Paris, with old streets to explore and street markets for sampling. Don't miss the Place de la Bourse Miroir d'Eau , a water installation that's basically a massive reflective pool. For retail therapy, walk along Rue Sainte Catherine —Europe's longest shopping street—while taking café breaks along the way for a reviving espresso.

Épernay, France

Another must-visit for anyone looking to explore the Champagne region—and around an hour and 15 minutes away via train—Épernay is worth it for the photo ops and the bubbly. Climb Mount Bernon for sweeping vineyard views or rent bikes to see everything up close. Of course, there are also plenty of Champagne houses to tour (and sample, of course) along the Avenue de Champagne .

Dijon, France

Gourmands, rejoice: About an hour and a half on the speediest train will land you in Dijon, a culinary haven and the birthplace of a particularly famous mustard. Start at the famous Les Halles farmers market for edible souvenirs. Condiments aside, there's also the impressive Musée des Beaux-Arts , a fine art museum that's among the oldest in the country—and the city's very own Notre Dame.

Provins, France

Another medieval town worth visiting, Provins is less than an hour and a half from the capital city. It's a UNESCO site with lots of architecture from the era—from the 12th-century Tour César and the Medieval Tunnels to the Romanesque Church of Saint Quiriace . If your travels are never complete without a sampling of local food, your bucket-list item here is a niflette : a tiny puff pastry filled with orange blossom cream that hails from the area.

Luxembourg, Luxembourg

We're saying a quick "see you later" to France again. The fastest train will get you to Luxembourg's capital city in just over two hours. Start by walking around the Old City , a UNESCO World Heritage site full of winding cobblestone streets. Next, explore the Bock Casemates , an underground tunnel system that was once part of the city's defense system during World War II. When you get hungry, stop into a lunch spot for gromperekichelcher —the country's famously delicious potato pancake .

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Day Trips From Paris

The 12 Best Day Trips From Paris

Once you've seen  Paris' most essential attractions , why not get out of the city for a day and find out what lies outside its limits? Several interesting and entertaining destinations, including chateaus, natural parks, and medieval fortifications, are within close reach of the city. These are some of the best day trips from Paris—scroll down to see which places outside the city walls made the list. And if it's worth it to reserve a car to get yourself around from one spot to another. Before you do rent one, know the  pros and cons of renting a car in Paris for some informed advice on the matter.

Versailles Palace and Gardens

No in-depth visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the former seat of royal power at the Palais de Versailles . A symbol of the French monarchy and its dramatic downfall following the Revolution of 1789, the Chateau de Versailles was erected by the powerful "Sun King" Louis XIV, then later was home to the ill-fated Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, who were eventually executed. The palace, including the emblematic Hall of Mirrors, was recently renovated. Hordes of visitors throng on the palace every year.

In the spring, the palace's gardens are lush and idyllic, making it perfect for a long stroll or a picnic. Meanwhile, a visit to Queen Marie Antoinette's private quarters at Le Petit Trianon, her bucolic animal farm and cottage, can provide amusing and interesting additional perspectives on royal life at the palace.

Getting There:  Take the  RER C (commuter line train) from central Paris to the Versailles–Rive Gauche station; follow the signs to the chateau entrance.

When to Go:  Consider visiting in the early spring and fall, when crowds are a tad thinner than in the peak late spring and summer months.

Claude Monet's House and Gardens

An excursion to French impressionist painter  Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny is a must for those interested in art history—or for botanical enthusiasts, for that matter.

Open to the public since 1980, Monet's private gardens , immortalized in his brushstrokes, are a haven of green, shadows, and light, featuring elegant Japanese-style bridges, water lilies, and dozens of varieties of flowers and trees.

Getting There:  Giverny is a town at the edge of Normandy, about an hour from Paris. From the Gare Saint-Lazare train station, buy a ticket to Vernon. At Vernon, shuttle buses regularly offer direct service to Giverny (spring to autumn only; consult the official website  for a precise schedule).

When to Go: Try to go in April or May if you can; the blooms are dramatic and colorful and the weather is generally pleasant. Avoid wet days, however—this can ruin the fun, not to mention the photo opportunities.

Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica and the Royal Necropolis

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica is a marvelous medieval pilgrimage site and one of the earliest French example of high gothic architecture. You can find this site in the humble, working-class community of Saint-Denis just north of Paris, and it's easily accessible on Metro Line 13.

Many tourists overlook this astounding gem, which boasts a necropolis dedicated to the kings, queens, and other royal figures of French history. Come admire their melancholy, eerily beautiful recumbent effigies and see the mysterious crypt where the remains of the famed saint are said to have been buried. Joan of Arc is even said to have made a pilgrimage here; a plaque outside honors the famed French warrior.

Getting There: Take Line 13 of the Paris Metro to Saint-Denis; follow signs to Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica. While it's best to avoid this area after dark, during the day it's perfectly safe.

When to Go: You can visit this site year-round, but choose a sunny day if possible to enjoy the beautiful light streaming through the stained glass and onto the effigies. This is an unforgettable sight.

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte is a little-known 17th-century chateau east of Paris and is worth a visit, especially for history and literature buffs. Home to countless royal fetes and a place of inspiration for dramaturges including Molière and La Fontaine, Vaux-le-Vicomte today is often chosen as a setting for period-piece films, and some have even opined that it's more beautiful than Versailles.

Like its more famous counterpart—also designed by Le Notre—Vaux-le-Vicomte's luxuriant formal gardens and fountains can provide repose from the hectic cityscape.

Getting There:  Take the SNCF regional train from Gare de l'Est to Verneuil l'Etang (Line P); then take the Chateaubus shuttle, a free transportation service between the station and the Chateau. Alternatively, take the RER commuter train line D to Melun, then the Chateaubus.

When to Go:  Spring, summer, and early fall are best to appreciate the formal gardens at their finest.

Disneyland Paris Parks and Resort

If you're  visiting Paris with kids , a day or two at ​​ Disneyland Paris  parks and resort can be a treat—and it's only about an hour away from the city, which is easily accessible by the high-speed commuter train. The resort facilities, including a golf course, ​ Disney Village , and Davy Crockett Ranch bungalows, can provide adults with an amusing day away from the city grind, too.

Getting There: The easiest way to get there is to take the RER commuter train line A to Marne-la-Valleé/Chessy station from central Paris (Chatelet-les-Halles). The park entrance is right outside. Some prefer to drive; plenty of parking spaces are generally available but may be further away from the entrance than desired, especially during peak visiting months.

When to Go: Visit year-round, but you may prefer spring through mid-fall to avoid waiting outside in the cold in long lines. Some families love to go for Halloween and Christmas  when the park is decked out in thematic decor for the holiday season.

Fontainebleau Palace and Park

Steeped in centuries of royal history, the palace and surrounding forest of Fontainebleau  served as a seasonal home to French monarchs starting from the 13th century onward. An excursion here will sate both history and architecture buffs and nature-lovers, who will find miles of hiking trails in the historic park and forest around the palace. Barbizon, a town which has gained fame as the home of painters such as Millet, is nestled in the Fontainebleau forest and is also worth a detour.

Getting There:  Take the SNCF regional train line from the Paris Gare de Lyon train station to Fontainebleau​–Avon. Follow directions or your GPS to the chateau and/or forest entrances. Bring a picnic if you wish to enjoy a hike in the area.

When to Go:  Head here during all seasons, although some will find the cold in winter less pleasant. Aim for spring or summer to appreciate the gardens and their ornate landscaping fully. Avoid hiking on wet days when trails can be slippery or muddy, and always exercise caution.

Chartres Cathedral

Along with Notre Dame Cathedral , ​​the  Chartres Cathedral is France's most breathtaking cathedral—a true masterpiece that draws visitors from around the world to a rather sleepy town about an hour from Paris by train.

Built between around 1190 and 1220, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered a crowning achievement in high gothic architecture. It's been remarkably well-preserved and features dramatic flying buttresses, a breathtaking rose window, and delicate stained glass. The Chapel of Saint Piat resembles a castle from the Middle Ages, with its rounded turrets, and compared to most churches and cathedrals from the medieval period, Chartres has conserved much of its original design.

Getting There: There are more than 30 trains a day that run between Paris and Chartres, excluding some holidays. Take the regional line train from the Montparnasse station to Chartres; follow signs to the Cathedral or use your GPS to get there.

When to Go: Visit year-round, but as with the Saint-Denis Basilica, choose a sunny day to benefit from light coming through the stunning rose window and stained glass.

Proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the fortified medieval town of Provins once hosted some of Europe's most extravagant fairs. Spices, silks, and other products were sold here, drawing visitors and merchants from across France and neighboring countries.

Built starting in the 11th century, this underappreciated gem of medieval history has inspired countless literary portrayals by authors including  Victor Hugo  and Balzac. Exploring the town's stunning stone fortifications and partaking in theatrical medieval shows and festivals there is definitely worth the trip.

Getting There:  Take the SNCF regional train from Gare de l'Est to Provins. The city is about an hour from Paris by train or car.

When to Go: Visit during the spring and summer, when fields of yellow flowers blossom all around the town and roses (a regional product of note) leave a lovely fragrance on the air. In the summer, medieval re-enactments and performances are fun for kids and adults, if a bit corny at times.

Mont-Saint-Michel

One of the most breathtaking natural and architectural sites in the world, the Abbey at Mont-Saint-Michel is further from Paris than the other places on the list—but the trip is well worth it. Towering over a bay that joins the regions of Normandy and Brittany, and whose dramatically changing ties create a poetic show of light and water few could forget, the rocky mount on which the abbey stands was first settled by an Irish hermit.

The Abbey and monastery that was built atop it starting in the 8th century are remarkably intact—one of the most impressive medieval sites in the world, with walled fortifications and winding streets leading to the church at the top. While it's almost purely a tourist site—very few "residents" actually inhabit it—it's a remarkable place. At high tide, the site is entirely surrounded by water; thanks to a new high-tech walkway, the Abbey is now accessible at all times, and previous dangers for visitors exploring the site have been reduced.

Getting There: There is no direct train to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris, so many tourists prefer to drive. Parking is available near the Abbey; walk or take a free shuttle from the parking lot to the entrance. If you do opt to take the train, you can catch one from Paris' Montparnasse station to the city of Rennes, then take a bus called Keolis to the Abbey. The bus runs several times a day.

When to Go:  Head to this site year-round: the tides, sky, and light will be different during each season, each beautiful in its own way. Sunnier days allow you to fully appreciate the play of light on the sand and the dramatic contrast between the sea, sunlit water reflecting on the sand, and the imposing presence of the Abbey.

Cellars and Towns of Champagne

Situated a little over an hour from Paris by train or car, the prestigious region of Champagne beckons visitors for a decadent day away from the city.

Visit the elegant town of Reims , a medieval city whose underground chalk quarry networks are so impressive and extensive that they've been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sip champagne in the cellars of some of the world's most famous producers, from Dom Perignon to Taittinger. Learn about the history of how this prized white wine was first produced, the prominent families who reign over the business, and how it's transformed the region into a powerhouse.

If you don't mind renting a car or taking a guided tour, you should also consider spending a few hours in the nearby village of Epernay , famous for its prestigious champagne cellars and elegant countryside. Dom Perignon and Mercier both have tasting rooms here. 

Getting There:  Renting a car is probably easiest so you can get around the region and its best cellars. You can also travel to Reims by train from Paris: SNCF regional and high-speed (TGV) trains leave almost every hour from the Gare de l'Est station.

When to Go:  A fall or winter visit to Champagne is something to consider. The vineyards often display beautiful foliage in the autumn, and a wintery getaway to cellars underground can be a cozy way to escape the rain.

Heading northward to the edge of the Belgian border, Lille is a humble but alluring city that attracts visitors for its unique Flemish heritage, attractive town center bustling with restaurants and shopping spots, and pretty architecture.

Hop on the train from Paris to see a French city that couldn't be more different from the capital's sometimes ostentatious vibe. On the old medieval square, admire tall, narrow Flemish-style buildings and the elegant opera house.

Visit the town's enormous, bustling flea market, and enjoy traditional Northern French and Flemish fare such as moules-frites (mussels and French fries) on a terrace somewhere. You should also spend some time at the Palais des Beaux-Arts,  which is a fine arts museum filled with masterpieces and lauded as one of the most beautiful buildings in France.

Getting There: The high-speed TGV or Eurostar train will take you from Paris Gare du Nord to Lille in a little over an hour.

When to Go:  The city is especially lovely in the spring and summer, but any time of year can be a charming time to visit. In the winter, spend more time at the Palais des Beaux-Arts; in the summer, enjoy outdoor meals in the old town and easy self-guided architecture strolls.

Last but certainly not least, a day-long or overnight stay in Burgundy is an ideal way to add a wine-themed trip to your Paris adventure. You might want to cheat a bit and extend this to a weekend getaway, though, to really take in the region and learn something about its history, architecture, and fine wines.

The old Duchy of Burgundy once reigned here, making the region truly distinctive since it was politically independent for much of France's history. In the medieval era, the Dukes of Burgundy were tremendously powerful; this is visible in the ornate, wealthy towns of Beaune, Dijon, and others in the region.

Beaune , symbolized by its elegant old hospices (hospital) graced with distinctive, glazed tiles and prestigious wine cellars, is a natural stop in the region. Also make sure to visit Dijon : one of the prettiest cities of France, this capital of mustard, pain d'épices (gingerbread), and lovely half-timbered houses is well worth a few hours to a day of exploration.

If time allows, make sure to venture into the vineyards to taste some of the finest local bounty. Companies offer wine tours that are affordable and accessible to many travelers. Other companies provide private tours that offer real local insight and access to some renowned cellars.

Getting There: Trains depart for Dijon and Beaune from Gare de Lyon in Paris several times a day, and the trip takes a little over two hours on high-speed trains. When traveling to Beaune via TGV, you will need to make a connection in Dijon.

When to Go:  The fall is a magnificent time to visit Burgundy as you can take part in ceremonial harvest celebrations and wine tastings. You can also witness gorgeous vineyards painted in autumn colors and admire fall light hitting old buildings in Dijon.

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5 Best Day Trips from Paris

By Mary Winston Nicklin and Lindsey Tramuta

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

Click the link to read our complete Paris guide .

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

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

Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace Arrow

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

Ore - Ducasse au Château de Versailles Arrow

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

Le Pincemin Arrow

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

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

La Mangette Arrow

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

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

Palace of Versailles Arrow

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

Bar Galerie, at the Trianon Palace (Waldorf Astoria) Arrow

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

FONTAINEBLEAU

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

Hôtel de Londres Arrow

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

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

Barbizon and the Auberge Ganne Arrow

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

Frédéric Cassel Pâtisserie Arrow

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

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

L'Axel Arrow

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

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

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

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

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

Château de Vaux le Vicomte Arrow

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

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

L'Assiette Champenoise Arrow

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

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

Domaine Veuve Clicquot Arrow

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

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

Le Parc Arrow

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

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

Hôtel Les Avisés Arrow

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

Café du Palais Arrow

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

Domaine Vranken Pommery Arrow

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

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims Arrow

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

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

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

Auberge du Jeu de Paume Arrow

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

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

Château de Chantilly Arrow

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

Musée Condé Arrow

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

Spa Valmont, at Auberge du Jeu de Paume Arrow

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

Lille, which is on the French-Belgium border, is known for its Flemish influences and architecture and for being named the European Capital of Culture. The university town is an intellectual hub, full of coffee shops and cafés where you'll find residents and students in conversation. Vieux Lille, the city's old town, is a charming neighborhood of restored red brick buildings that have a totally different feel from Paris when you walk along them.

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Through a courtyard and into an 18th-century former hôtel particulier , or private mansion, there's a stately feel to an arrival at Clarance. It's one of the only five-star boutique hotels in town and is affordable for the quality of the services and dining options available. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and all decorated differently. La Table , the on-site restaurant, has a Michelin star, its chef Thibaut Gamba having worked with the likes of Pierre Gagnaire and Thomas Keller. The garden terrace is a wonderful spot for a drink when weather allows.

L'Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection Arrow

There's no mistaking you're in a converted, historic building: long before the Flemish gabled structure was Lille's first five-star hotel, it was a 15th century hospice. There's a massive stained glass window on the façade, an old hospice room still intact, and a 17th-century chapel. All of this sits alongside modern art, vast courtyards, a glass canopy, and a modern restaurant. Rooms are a mix of modern and a bit old fashioned: exposed wood beams, wood panels lining the walls around the bed, great light. There's fine dining in the red vaulted-ceiling restaurant, and it's considered some of the city's finest.

La Table Arrow

Inside the Clarance Hotel , La Table serves Michelin-starred food in 18th century surroundings. The food is seasonal and hearty, and the chef includes herbs foraged from the garden. Dishes may range from grilled langoustine served with salsify from Dries, fermented black garlic butter, and sage tempura, or Burgaud roasted duck atop stuffed Flanders cabbage. All of it beautifully plated and balanced in flavor (arguably what won the restaurant a Michelin star). The natural light the main dining room lets in is exquisite, but the other dining room is an all-wood library alcove set off in the back of the restaurant. It has an original spiral staircase that leads up to rows of books.

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From a self-taught chef, the high level of modern Flemish cooking happening here draws increasingly discerning crowds. New York City loft meets Berlin beer garden meets French industrial zone: a vast space with heavy use of brick, rough-hewn wood, metallic beams, and massive open kitchen. It's laid-back and casual, welcoming and cool, a vibe that doesn't adequately prepare you for the high level, original cooking that lands on the plate. There’s a fixed menu called “Les yeux fermés,” a multi-course surprise with drink pairings, which shows off the bounty of the region. Sample dishes might include creamy pollack rillettes with bread chips, endive leaves and a jus de cuisson mousse; brined and grilled chicken with plump cauliflower; nettle sorbet with whole strawberries, strawberry chips, and yogurt mousse.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred Arrow

Take one look at the line snaking down the street, and you'll know you've come to the right place. And, as the name suggests, it's all about merveilleux here: an airy, layered meringue mound covered with sweet whipped cream and enveloped in a variety of coatings, from chocolate flakes to caramelized hazelnuts. All of the merveilleux are prepared in front of customers in a large open kitchen, and it's quite a sight to behold.

La Capsule Arrow

This is a destination for beer lovers. Since 2008, they've offered French and foreign craft beer brewers, on tap and by the bottle. There are always a rotating selection of 28 beers on tap and more than 100 options by the bottle. Don't want anything too hoppy? Into IPAs? There's something for everyone. Send your beer-loving friends and family members here for a taste of the best coming out of France and beyond. It's also in the heart of the old town, which means there are plenty of sights to take in before or after.

Méert Arrow

This shop and tea salon is visually arresting, with 18th and 19th century and Louis XVI decor , and many of its original bones. Even the façade dates to the first part of the 18th century. The rows of shelves and display cases full of cakes, waffles ( gaufres , the Méert signature), candies, and chocolates recall an old fashioned candy shop. The vanilla gaufre may be the house's signature, but any manner of other exquisite, perfectly prepared pastry are worth attention: financiers, éclairs, lemon tartelettes, Saint-Honoré, and another Lille specialty, the merveilleux. This place makes an impression inside and out.

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The original 18th-century opera house was destroyed by a fire, so its replacement dates to the early 1900s (officially opening to the public in 1923). Yet it still does a terrific job of transporting you to the past with its neo-classical flourishes. Today, it is one of the most prized architectural icons in the city. You can see operas, concerts, and contemporary dance performances—for the most part they're all original and locally produced. The primary audience is Northern French and Belgian, however, any fan of dance, opera, or music should stop in for a show to experience the space.

La Piscine - Musée d'Art et d'Industrie André Diligent Arrow

The Art and Industry museum in Roubaix, not far from Lille, is set inside the town's former Art Deco municipal pool. There are sculptures, paintings, ceramics, drawings, and more, all related to the textile industry. It's an atypical museum experience, but a fascinating look at northern France's artistic and industrial heritage. The central atrium with the solar stained glass and the water basin often hosts fashion shows, and there are often several temporary collections viewing simultaneously. The space itself is incredible and brings the pieces to life in a bold way. Overall: it's an Art Deco relic that has been preserved to honor the city's industrial and working class past. Good news when it comes to food, too. This isn't your average cafeteria food, it's Méert , the Roubaix outpost of the historic Lille pastry shop and tea salon.

Palais des Beaux Arts Arrow

This is one of the largest museums in all of France (also one of the first to be built, under Napoleon I), so expect grand and expansive collection halls. The collection highlights fine arts, modern art, and antiquities, with sculptures, paintings, drawings, and ceramics. All the heavy hitters are here: Raphael, Donatello, Van Dyck, Tissot, Jordaens, Rembrandt, Goya, El Greco, David, Corot, Courbet, Toulouse-Lautrec, Delacroix, Rubens, Rodin. It's an incredible and diverse array of works, with highlights like ancient mummies and Monet's painting of the Houses of Parliament in London.

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7 easy day trips from Paris we love

Apr 1, 2024 • 8 min read

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

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

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

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

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

Travel time: 25 mins to 1hr 

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

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

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

2. Get a taste of medieval life in Provins 

Travel time: 1hr 20 mins

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

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

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

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

Travel time: 1hr 15 mins to 90 mins

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

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

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

4. Channel your inner Impressionist at Giverny

Travel time: 45 mins to 1hr 30 mins

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

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

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

5. Let the Palace of Versailles’ opulence dazzle you

Travel time: 40 to 45 mins

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

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

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

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

6. Follow the many trails through Forêt de Fontainebleau 

Travel time: 40 mins to 1hr 15 mins

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

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

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

7. Delight the kids with a day at Disneyland Paris

Travel time: 40 mins to 1hr

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

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

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

This article was first published August 2019 and updated April 2024

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17 Best Day Trips from Paris, France (+ How to Get There!)

Small villages lined with half-timbered houses, stunning châteaus, and charming cities: no matter what kind of trip you’re looking for, the best day trips from Paris include an option that’s right for you!

We asked several other travel writers to share their favorite Paris day trips with us, and with their help, have compiled this sweeping guide that includes a huge variety of day tours from Paris.

As difficult as it can be to tear yourself away from the capital (we always have an incredibly difficult time doing so), it’s worth it to add a bit of variety to your trip to France with one of these day trips from Paris!

Table of Contents

How We Structured This Paris Day Trip Guide

Best paris day trips reachable in under 1 hour, fun day trips from paris less than 2 hours away, epic day trips 2+ hours from paris.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

We’ve structured this guide to the best Paris day trips by distance from the capital, as calculated based on how long it (reasonably) takes to get to the destination.

Most of these are doable as day trips from Paris by train, with a few requiring a car or bus to reach.

Many of them are also enhanced or made easier by booking a tour, and when applicable, we’ve listed a well-reviewed tour option along with information on how to get there.

If you plan on renting a car, we recommend renting it only for your day trip–there’s no reason to keep a car rented on days that you’re exploring Paris itself–and shopping through Discover Cars, which will help you find the best prices and inclusions on rental cars during your trip!

Shop rental cars for your day trips from Paris today!

Without a doubt, Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris–and for a very good reason!

As the former seat of the French court, Versailles is (and always has been) known for its utter opulence, from the splendor of the Palace of Versailles with its famous Hall of Mirrors to its incredible gardens.

In addition to the main palace and gardens, Versailles offers plenty of other corners to explore too, including other palaces (Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon), and the Queen’s Hamlet, where Marie Antoinette once kept a small farm.

In addition to the estate itself, there’s also the actual town of Versailles, which is charming and worth exploring if you have time during your visit!

How to Get to Versailles

Versailles is about 40 minutes from central Paris via the RER C, and is easy to reach independently. You’ll want to get off at the Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station, and from there, the palace is about a 10-minute walk away.

However, a tour is incredibly helpful for gaining context while visiting the sprawling estate of Versailles– this one is very popular and also allows you to visit the estate with fewer crowds!

Book your tour of Versailles today!

Château de Fontainebleau

From Erica of Travels With Erica

Château de Fontainebleau is the perfect alternative to Versailles.  It is just as grand and full of history as Versailles, but it is far less visited, and therefore is a more relaxing day trip from Paris.  If you visit during off-peak times, you’ll feel like you have the entire palace to yourself! 

Château de Fontainebleau was the French royalty’s summer palace and where they went to get away from city life in Paris.  The palace was used by Louis VII all the way to Napoleon III who actually abdicated while in the palace.

 Not only does Château de Fontainebleau have all a stunning ballroom, throne room, and bedrooms, but it is also home to an extensive art museum, Chinese museum, and chapel. 

You need to dedicate at least a couple of hours to exploring the grounds as well!  There are three formal gardens that feature French, Italian, and English designs.  One garden features a pond and another a canal, and these are the best places to get Instagram-worthy photographs of Château de Fontainebleau.   

How to Get to Château de Fontainebleau  

It is super easy to  travel from Paris to Château de Fontainebleau .  You simply catch a train departing from Gare de Lyon and get off at Fontainebleau-Avon.  Trains depart once per hour, and the journey is about 40 minutes!

Once you get off the train, you get on a city bus until you reach the palace.  Buses are waiting at the train station, and the stops are announced in English, so you’ll easily be able to know when it is time to get off the bus!

Disneyland Paris (Euro Disney)

From Karen of Travel Mad Mum

How to Get to Disneyland Paris

Book your tickets for Disneyland Paris today!

If you are looking for an easy day trip from Paris, Chantilly is the place to go. 

In Chantilly, there’s the famous Château de Chantilly which is one of the  best castles to visit near Paris . Unlike the Palace of Versailles or Château de Fontainebleau, Chantilly is not a royal castle but it has a very picturesque setting, surrounded by a lake and French-style gardens.

Château de Chantilly is also famous for its beautiful library and the collection of French paintings, only second to the collection in the Louvre Museum.

But most of all, Chantilly is famous for its chic horse races, the French counterpart of the famous horse races of Ascot in the UK. When there’s no race, visitors can explore the Horse Museum, hosted in the Great Stables of Chantilly.

The Great Stables also host a prestigious center of classical dressage training for the most expensive horses in the world and a big hall covered by a magnificent dome used for dressage shows.

How to Get to Chantilly

Direct trains from Gare du Nord leave hourly to Chantilly and the train journey only takes 25 minutes (one way).

From Megan of MeganStarr.com

To the east of Paris sits the charming city of Reims, the Champagne region’s de facto capital and one of the best options for a day trip from Paris. Historically, Reims played an essential role in French history, and the imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims was the site of royal coronations.

Much of the city suffered damage during World War 1 and 2, but while efforts to restore many of the buildings have been successful, sadly, some of the Roman-era structures suffered irreversible damage. There are stunning examples of Art Deco architecture throughout the city that was the preferred style when Reims was being rebuilt.

Today, the city is famed for Champagne, with many of the world’s most renowned brands being based within the city or a short distance away. A visit to the Lanson champagne house is a must as it is the only house with a vineyard within the city.

Alternatively, there are plenty of fantastic champagne tours that depart from Reims Central Station, or you can simply take a Champagne day trip from Paris instead.

Like much of France, Reims has rich culinary traditions and is believed to be the biscuit’s birthplace. Biscuit Rose de Reims pairs excellently with a glass of Champagne. 

How to Get to Reims

Reaching Reims from Paris is relatively easy, with regular trains running between the two and taking only 50 minutes.

However, not all trains arrive at the Central Station as some stop at Champagne Ardenne TGV stop on the outskirts of Reims. From there, a local tram service connects the station to central Reims.

Prefer to focus solely on champagne during your escape from the city? This luxurious champagne tour makes for an unforgettable Paris day trip!

Home to the stunning gardens that inspired the impressionist paintings of Claude Monet, Giverny is one of the most popular Paris day trips and a fantastic way to feel worlds away from the bustling capital–without actually traveling far at all.

While in Giverny, be sure to tour the picturesque gardens, as well as pay a visit to Monet’s home (it doesn’t take long to visit), and the Museum of Impressionism.

If you’d like to explore further, consider visiting Monet’s tomb, and grabbing a coffee at Hôtel Baudy, which was a popular artist’s salon in Monet’s day.

How to Get to Giverny

Reaching Giverny from Paris is fairly simple, but it does take two steps: first, take a train from Gare-Saint-Lazare to Vernon. In Vernon, you’ll then take a short taxi or bus ride to the gardens–the bus route is extremely well marked due to its popularity with tourists.

Overall, the journey averages a little over an hour.

Prefer not to worry about logistics? This popular tour of Giverny from Paris is the perfect option!

The star attraction in Chartres is its magnificent Cathedral, which is considered to be the high point of French Gothic architecture. In 1979, it became one of the very first sites in France to be listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which shows just how important it is to French history, art and architecture.

Most of what you see in the Cathedral today dates from the 12th and 13th centuries. And considering that it’s more than 800 years old, its state of preservation is quite remarkable.

Chartres Cathedral is most famous for its stained glass windows and its delicate sculptures. In total, there are more than 160 stained glass windows in the Cathedral. It’s the most complete group of stained glass windows to have survived from the Middle Ages.

The sculptures, on the other hand, were created over a much longer time frame, ranging from the 12th to the 18th century. While the sculptures on the façade were part of the original Gothic construction, the ones decorated the choir screen inside are much newer.

Even though the Cathedral is the main reason to come to Chartres, it’s also worth strolling through the town while you’re here. The streets are lined with half-timbered houses with colorful flowers in the windows. You’ll find a few restaurants serving traditional French food, and for vegans and vegetarians visiting from Paris , your best option is probably Le Pailin, a Thai restaurant.

How to Get to Chartres

From Bridget of The Flashpacker

Visit under-the-radar Lille for a taste of French Flanders, both literally and figuratively. And situated only 137 miles north of Paris, close to the Belgian border, the city is an easy day trip from the capital.

As its historic center is compact, it is easy to explore Lille on a self-guided walking tour . Start by wandering through its cobblestoned squares flanked by extravagant Flemish Baroque buildings. Visit the book market at La Veille Bourse, a collection of small houses arranged around an exquisite porticoed courtyard, which was formerly the city’s stock exchange.

Stop by the Notre Dame de la Treille, Lille’s spiritual beating heart, a dizzying fusion of Gothic and contemporary architecture. Contrast this with L’Église Saint Etienne, one of France’s largest Jesuit churches, is the embodiment of simplicity.

Nurture your inner art aficionado by visiting the Palais des Beaux-Arts, Lille’s fine art gallery, second only to Paris’s Louvre in size and stature.

Finally, don’t leave town before sampling Lille’s hearty Flemish food and merveilleux. These little clouds of heaven are made of light meringue, liberally smothered in fresh cream and chocolate shavings.

How to Get to Lille

To get to Lille from Paris in a little over one hour, take a TGV from Gare du Nord.

By car, it’s a two-hour drive straight up the A1(note that this route has tolls).

From Linn of Brainy Backpackers

Metz is a great day trip from Paris. The city is full of historic surprises, so it can be hard to choose what to see in Metz  with only a day.

The main attraction that you absolutely can’t miss is Metz Cathedral, one of the tallest in Europe with its 42 meters, it towers elegantly over the city. The Gothic and Renaissance building is not only majestic on the outside, enter and you’ll get blinded by the light flowing through the numerous stained glass windows. There is no questioning why the cathedral has been nicknamed the Lantern of God.

After having lunch in the historic center, head to Île du Petit-Saulcy, an island in the middle of the Moselle River, connected by stone bridges. Here you’ll see the astounding Temple Neuf as well as the oldest functioning opera house in the country, Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole.

Other points of interest include the Basilica of Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains and Porte des Allemands. There is no doubt it’s worth going to Metz for a day to dive into the medieval times.

How to Get to Metz

The best way to reach Metz is from Paris’ Gare de l’Est station by high-speed train. The journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Somme Battlefields

From Paul of Anywhere We Roam

Explore a landscape that still wears the scars of the First World War on a day trip to the Somme Battlefields. The trenches, where an estimated 3 million soldiers fought across a front just 45 kilometers long, undulate across vibrant green fields; an artificial beauty that defies the horrors that once took place.

Visit the Commonwealth Memorial, a moving tribute to the 72,000 British and South African soldiers who died or went missing during the war and have no named grave. The Newfoundland Memorial Park is a moving experience with the trenches still clearly visible in the landscape. The Museum of the Great War is an informative look at the social context surrounding the war in a thoughtful and well-constructed presentation.

After remembering the impacts of war, enjoy the leisurely side of the area. The Somme Bay is a large estuary where 6 rivers drain into the English Channel. Get adventurous and try land-sailing on the 20 kilometer stretch of sand dunes.

Take a guided hike on the cliffs between Ault and Mers-Les-Bains to enjoy breath-taking scenic views. 

Visit the fairytale Rambures Castle, or just unwind on many of the cycle paths that intersect the bay.

How to Get to the Somme Battlefields

While it’s possible to get the train from Paris to Amiens (1 hour, 10 minutes) to explore the battlefields, many of the sites are spread out and require a car. A hire car can be arranged in Amiens, or Somme is just a 2-hour drive from Paris. 

For valuable context and a well-organized day without stress, this Somme Battlefields day tour from Paris is the perfect option.

Château de Chambord

From Norbert of France Bucket List

Château de Chambord is one of the  best castles of the Loire Valley   and it is also the most impressive. Château de Chambord is located 175 km south of Paris, in the French region of Centre-Val-de-Loire, and it is relatively easy to visit on a day trip from the French capital.

In Chambord, there is a castle since medieval times. The current castle, however, was built in Renaissance style commissioned by the French King François I for his hunting getaways from Paris. For the King, this château was a place to relax and have fun with his court but also a demonstration of his political and cultural power.

It is said that Leonardo da Vinci was involved in the construction of Château de Chambord and most probably, he is the author of the amazing central double-spiral staircase. King François was Leonardo da Vinci’s patron and the Italian artist lived the last years of his life not far from Chambord, in Amboise.

Château de Chambord is surrounded by beautiful French-style Gardens and a vast forest where the king liked to hunt. The château is located in the heart of the biggest closed forest in Europe (around 50 km2 surrounded by a 32-km wall).

How to Get to Château de Chambord

The best way to visit Château de Chambord from Paris is with your own car, the drive to Chambord is less than two hours. Also, you can take the train to Blois and at Blois train station there’s a shuttle bus to Chambord.

Prefer not to worry about the hassle of transportation? This well-reviewed day trip from Paris includes a visit to 3 stunning châteaus, including Château de Chambord!

From Henry of This Life of Travel

Rouen is a historical, architectural, and cultural gem that easily ranks among the best day trips from Paris. You’ve probably heard of Joan of Arc and Richard the Lionheart but did you know they were from Rouen?

The city itself is also full of architectural masterpieces like the Rouen Cathedral which was once one of the tallest buildings in the world! It’s free to visit and is also the resting place of Richard the Lionheart.

Once you’re done visiting the cathedral, make sure to have some Kir Norman which is alcoholic apple cider and a local specialty.

After that make sure to check out the magnificent Gros Horloge astronomical clock set on one of Rouen’s main shopping streets.

Be sure to also walk through the medieval center for a stroll back in time with its crooked, wood-framed houses. Then, learn more about the Joan of Arc at the Joan of Arc Tower and History Museum. 

How to Get to Rouen

The easiest way to get to Rouen from Paris is by train, which takes about an hour and a half. 

From Stuart of Go Eat Do

Arras, 177km north-east of Paris, is an attractive city whose historic town hall was dedicated as a national monument in 1921, and the city makes for a fabulous Paris day trip option.

Originally built in the early 16th century, the Hôtel de Ville dominates the Place des Héros, one of the cobbled squares in the center of the city. The building was damaged during World War One and subsequently reconstructed.  An elevator was added to the tower, whose compact observation platform offers fine views over the region. In 2005 the belfry was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Military history aficionados are likely to appreciate touring the tunnels of the Carrière Wellington. Prior to 1917’s Battle of Arras, Allied miners dug corridors through chalk leading to German lines. The entrances were blown at the battle’s start. Graffiti and other remnants convey what it was like for troops as they awaited the call to battle.

Similarly, the Citadel of Arras is an impressive example of late-17th century military architecture. Designed by Vauban, the historic attraction is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its grounds were used to execute members of the Resistance during World War Two.

During Advent, the Grand Place hosts Arras Christmas Market , a family-friendly event with gourmet food stalls and huts selling seasonal gifts.

How to Get to Arras

The TGV high-speed train takes an hour to cover the distance between the Gare du Nord in Paris and Arras’s railway station.

The journey takes just under 2 hours in total with a change at Lille Flanders.

Château Chenonceau

From Monique of Trip Anthropologist

An easy day trip from Paris,  Château de Chenonceau is perhaps the most beautiful chateau in all of France (and that’s a big call!).

The Château is the most visited French castle after Versailles. It’s easy to see why – a walk from the entrance gate takes you through the beautiful Loire Forest (once the hunting grounds of the French Kings), and brings you to the River Cher, just outside the village of Chenonceau.

Spanning the river is the Château Chenonceau. As you explore the castle, from its kitchens to the bedrooms of kings and queens, you will cross the river as you walk along the galley on the second floor of the Château.

The formal gardens surrounding the Château are smaller than some of France’s grand castles, but they are just as beautiful and more interesting: they are rival gardens, designed by Catherine de Medici, the wife of King Henri II, and Diane de Poitiers, his mistress.

How to Get to Château Chenonceau

The easiest way to get to Château Chenonceau from Paris is to drive – it’s a simple drive along the A10 before taking Exit 18 towards Amboise. It’s 214 km and takes just over two hours.

Visiting by train is also a fairly simple affair – trains regularly leave Montparnasse for St Pierre des Corps. It’s a one hour trip and then you change for the 25-30 minute trip to Chenonceau. The Château is a 10-minute taxi ride (or 500 m walk) from the village of Chenonceau.

Prefer not to worry about the hassle of transportation? This well-reviewed day trip from Paris includes a visit to 3 stunning châteaus, including Château Chenonceau!

From Ella of Many More Maps

Although there’s enough to see in London to keep you entertained for a lifetime, why not dip your toes into the water by visiting London as a day trip from Paris?

It’s hard to narrow down what to do in London in just one day, but it’s best to try and tick off all the classic tourist stops first – the Big Ben, the London Eye, Buckingham Palace, and the Houses of Parliament. Luckily, these amazing attractions are all near each other, so you can walk between them.

Snap the classic tourist photos and explore these iconic landmarks before moving on to one of the city’s many fascinating museums. The National Gallery, the Natural History Museum, and the Science Museum are all hugely popular, and for good reason!

Finally, be sure to make a reservation to enjoy a classic British tradition – the afternoon tea. For an experience as delicious as it gets (with a price tag to match!) afternoon tea at Fortnum & Mason or the Ritz is a real bucket list experience. If you’re looking for an afternoon tea with a twist, check out the Harry Potter themed afternoon tea at Cutter & Squidge!

How to Get to London

London is surprisingly easy to reach from Paris and is just 2hrs 30minutes on the Eurostar from Paris’ Gare du Nord train station.

From Paulina of Paulina on the Road

If you’re looking to go for a day trip from Paris, Luxembourg is one of the best destinations to visit. The charming city is located in Western Europe, bordered by Germany, Belgium, and France. I

t’s an ideal short day trip goal to spend around 8-9 hours in the town. Precisely, you can return to Paris by evening if you leave for Luxembourg in the early morning.

Luxembourg is worth visiting as the city presents a fascinating combination of modern museums, ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscapes. It’s indeed famous for offering award-winning wine and traditional foods, besides featuring picturesque multicultural vicinities.

Additionally, there are several things to do on this day trip, including enjoying the culture at the museum of modern art, climbing along the walls of the corniche, touring the bock and the city Casements, encountering fortification of the place, admiring the natural view of the city, and so on! 

How to Get to Luxembourg

The best convenient way to reach Luxembourg from Paris is to catch a TGV train, around 10 am from Paris Gare de l’Est station, and it takes about 2.5 hours.

From Mark of Wyld Family Travel

Strasbourg is in North East France and the Capital of the Alsace region and is a city with strong influences from both France and Germany having belonged to both countries numerous times in history.

Today most people head to Strasbourg to visit its old town cobbled streets, world-famous cathedral, The Neustadt district, and the picturesque La Petite France district. A boat ride on the canals of Strasbourg will introduce you to the amazing wooden colored old-world houses of Strasbourg and the European Parliament area.

The Strasbourg Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world. Make sure you climb the Cathedral tower for the best view of the city.

During the Christmas period, Strasbourg plays host to one of the most famous and popular Christmas markets in Europe.

Strasbourg and the Alsace are known for its food and wine, make sure you try the regional special called Flammkuchen, it is an Alsace version of pizza. This is best accompanied by a local Gewürztraminer wine. A day trip to Strasbourg  is a must from Paris.

How to Get to Strasbourg

Strasbourg is easily reached in 2.5 hours from Paris on the TGV. There are around 19 trains a day running between the two cities.

From Christine of Journey to France

Located in the Upper Brittany region in France, this beautiful city is one of the best day trips from Paris that you must include in your itinerary. It is also not as crowded as the other popular French cities so it’s a must if you want to get away from the crowd but also enjoy a full French experience.

There are several things to do in Nantes which include medieval architecture, chateaus, cathedrals, picturesque French gardens, and historical museums. The Quartier Bouffay is a medieval quarter in Nantes known for its amazing architecture, quaint shops, and traditional restaurants. It is also where the Chateau des Ducs de Bretagne is located. This beautiful restored 14th-century castle is one of the popular landmarks in the Brittany Region.

How to Get to Nantes

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

2 thoughts on “17 Best Day Trips from Paris, France (+ How to Get There!)”

Your a full time traveler? Would love to chat with you about Europe!

Depends on how you define it! We were fully nomadic for 4 years, now we bounce around with bases that we tend to spend 1-2 years in each (last stop was Lisbon, right now it’s NYC) and travel from there.

We’re always happy to answer a few questions for fellow travelers! 🙂

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35+ Best Day Trips from Paris (France) – Tips by local + Map + Photos

Last updated on June 10, 2021 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Planning your next vacations in Paris? Want to discover more of France? That's a great idea and really easy. Paris is central so you can see a lot. But where to go? Belo you will find my selection of  the best day trips from Paris, France ,  including:

• Charming villages
• War History
• Kids activities
• Historical Cities

This guide is organized by themes, with photos, map and lots of practical information.

This article contains affiliate links ( Disclosure page ). If you purchase using my link, I get a commission at no extra cost to you.

My top selection - 5 Best Day Trips from Paris France

Paris is very central and there are lots and lots of day tours you can do. It can be overwhelming This is why, as a French Person and a travel planning addict, I have:

• curated for you the best 1 day excursions from Paris by themes,
• organized them by themes (Castles - Gastronomy - Villages - War History - Kids activities - Cities...)
• added criteria to help you choose 

Best day trips from Paris - Inspiration

My 5 favorite tours

As French person and an avid seeker of grandiose scenery, I think the best day trips from Paris are to:

• Mont Saint Michel , a small but fascinating fortified island between Normandy and Brittany (By organized tour: Check out program )
• Etretat , a charming villages with impressive cliffs and sea stacks (By organized tour:  Check out program )
• Strasbourg , a city in the Eastern part of France with a typical old center ( Book your train ride )
• Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle , not far from Paris, not as crowded as Versailles, but with a long & fascinating history (Organized tour: Check out program )
• The Champagne region , for the cathedral and gastronomy (Organized tour: Check out program )

Mont Saint Michel

Vaux le Vicomte

Detailed descriptions and planning tips for all of them after the map.

MAP of Potential Day Trips

Stop being overwhelmed! I have reduced the list for you. Below is a map overview to give you an idea of where you could go. After the Map you can navigate by theme to find detailed info about those excursions from Paris (with photo, reasons to visit, things to, how to get there...).

I hope you will have fun selecting you itinerary to discover more of France!

MY FAVORITES - Best Day Trips to France from Paris

If you want to save time and not choose by yourself, here are my recommendations as a French person. It is not easy to reduce it down, there are so many beautiful places in France.

1 - MONT SAINT MICHEL (Map #7)

Architecture / History / Scenery

LONG - 4h drive each way (8h return)

Unesco Site - Yes

Why visit Mount Saint Michel?

I know it is a crazy long drive for a day trip. The other ones won't be like that. But it is such a unique place! It is one of the most iconic French locations outside of Paris.

Located at the limit between Brittany and Normandy, the island is 1km off the coast (0.6 miles).

The small rock promontory is covered with fortifications and a magnificent monastery. It is a perfect example of feudal society.

• Very touristy, you won't be alone!
• Access to the island is a flat walk however once one the Mount, you will have to navigate steep, busy and narrow streets.
• Avoid bringing big bags - not adapted to wheelchair or stroller
• At low tide, do not cross the sand by yourself - there are moving sands - hire a guide
• Fabulous place to admire the equinox tides
• Paris to Mont St Michel - 360km - 4h to 4h30
• GPS Parking - 48°36'36.8"N 1°30'28.8"W
• Take Motorway A13 towards Rouen and then National Roads - Tolls 24€ one way
• Parking lots inland - 2.5km from the Mount - Shuttles are set up to pick your up directly from the Parking
• Compare prices and rent your car on  Discovercars.com

Train Option

• Nothing direct, you need train + bus
• Special daily public transportation offer - 4h each way
• Train from Paris Montparnasse to Villedieu les Poêles and then bus to Mont Saint Michel - One Daily Return trip organised (54€ return)
• More info on the SNCF website with departure and return times: Mont Saint Michel Train or Book Directly on Rail Europe - Enter Paris as departure and Mont St Michel as arrival - Book your return trip

Organized Tour

If you don't want to have to find your way though the transportation or drive, consider booking an organized tour with a guide that will give you plenty of historical information. I don't recommend booking a tour that is in combination with another famous location. You need to have enough time to explore this incredible place! Check out this tour in luxury coach  Or check out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

2 - ETRETAT (Map #10)

MEDIUM - 2h45 drive each way (5h30 return)

Unesco - Maybe one day

Why visit Etretat?

Etretat is a beloved location for French people, made famous by Maurice Leblanc's fictional character of Arsene Lupin and by the Impressionist painters.

If offers a very scenic coastline with impressive chalk cliffs, arches and pinnacles. The small village of Etretat, niched between the cliffs, is very charming with old houses and great restaurants.

If you want to get away from the crowds of Paris and go for a walk along the sea, this is one of the best places to go!

It is only 30min from where I grew up, I love going there!

See more photos in my Etretat Article.

• The village is really niched in a small area between cliffs. There is not much parking places inside, so during weekends, better to park at the entrance of the village.
• Enjoy some great sea food by the water
• Spend time visiting the villag e center, especially the market hall
• 2 walks possible on each side of the village. Lots of steps. Both offer amazing views. To see the arch, climb on the South side (the one without the church)
• Paris to Etretat - 2h45 - 210km one way
• GPS Parking by the sea - 49°42'27.5"N 0°12'05.7"E
• Take Motorway A13 towards Rouen. national Roads at the end
• Tolls - 20€ each way
• Alternative - if you have time, you can also drive to Honfleur (#9) and cross at the Normandy Bridge rather than the Tancarville bridge, if you love bridge engineering 🙂
• Compare prices and rent your car on  Discovercars.com
• No direct options - I don't recommend trying to get there by public transportation
• But if you insist - you have to take the train from Paris to Breauté-Beuzeville (from Saint Lazare Train station  - Stop on the train that goes to Le Havre) and take bus Line 17 to Etretat - but it needs to be planned for connections

If you don't want to drive, better to join an organized tour on an Impressionist journey. This tour takes you to walk around Etretat, followed by a French cooking class in a Manor and to the Unesco Site of Le Havre with it art museum. Check out this quite unique program! Or check out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

Or check out My gastronomy tour suggestion in Normandy that also stops at Etretat (#22)

3 - STRASBOURG (Map #23)

Architecture / History

MEDIUM - 2h by train

Why visit Strasbourg ?

Strasbourg is one of my favorite cities in France. This is where I studied (not that it is factor in your choice of Day trip from Paris, I know).

Thanks to the TGV (High speed train), it is now easily visited on a day tour from Paris.

Located in the Alsace region (East of France), it offers a magnificent Gothic Cathedral and a center that looks like a small village.

One of the best activities is to take a boat ride on the canals to really appreciate this old typical center!

• Train station is only 10/15min walk from the old center and the cathedral or you can take the Tram
• Take the time to admire the Gothic Cathedral, its façade and inside
• Take a boat tour
• Enjoy some Flammekuche or other famous local specialities in the many delicious restaurants - and taste the local white wines! (Riesling, Gewurzstraminer...)
• A great time to visit Strasbourg is in December, during the Christmas Market
• I don't recommend driving there. It is a 4h drive - boring motorway all the way
• TGV train from Paris Gare de l'Est to Strasbourg - 2h10 - Reserve your TGV seat now   (TGVs have limited number of seats)

I could not find a tour organized from Paris, since it is far away if you don't take the train. But you can book a 2 hour visit by bicycle to learn more about the city and get oriented! Check out the program

4 - VAUX-LE-VICOMTE CASTLE (Map #3)

SHORT - 1h15 drive Each way (2h30 return)

Unesco Site - No, In discussion

Why visit Vaux le Vicomte?

This is my favorite castle around Paris. It is not as grandiose as Versailles because it was not enlarged, but you don't get the same crowds.

I love the ambiance it offers. Built in the 17th century, it is the French elegance you imagine. With Versailles, Louis XIV tried to be as grandiose as possible. But Vaux-le-Vicomte remained untouched with great details and art.

The gardens are also worth a stroll

• Plenty of parking space
• Opening hours during touristic season: 25th March to 5th November - 10 am to 7pm
• Opening hours off touristic season: weekends only 10 am to 7pm from 25th November to 7th January - closed the other periods
• Check here for latest info on opening hours
• 15,5 € entrance for 1 adult - more on prices here
• You can even rent historical costumes to have fun around the castle!
• Paris to Vaux le Vicomte - 1h15 drive
• Located South East of Paris, close to the town of Melun - no tolls
• GPS Parking - 48°34'05.6"N 2°42'41.4"E
• No direct public transportation, you need a combination - Suburban train + ShuttleBus
• From Paris take the Line P (in the direction of Provins) - Stop at Verneuil L'Etang (35min on train) then take the shuttle called "Châteaubus" (during touristic period only). Shuttle paiement by cash only.

Once again, if you don't want to find your way and just seat back, relax, and listen to the guide, you can join an organized tour from Paris. The tour allows you to visit 2 castles. This one Vaux-le-Vicomte and the nearby Fontainebleau castle, which is Unesco Site (#2). Check out the program and Book Or c heck out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

Looking for something special?

If you want to do something different, I have 2 options around this castle for you:

• Enjoy a beautiful dinner at Vaux-le-Vicomte and visit the castle in a unique atmosphere surrounded by thousands of candles - Check out program and book
• Get there by Helicopter - Enjoy an unforgettable Helicopter ride over Paris and arriving over the castle. This is what I call a great entrance 🙂  

5 - CHAMPAGNE REGION (Map #19)

Tasting / Scenery

MEDIUM - 2h drive Each way (4h return)

Why visit the Champagne Region?

Well, when you think of France, you might think Wine, Cheese and Baguette. But you can find wines everywhere. Champagne is not the same. It is the essence of French Luxury.

Champagne can only come from France, and only from the Champagne region (any other version of it would be called sparkling wine, not champagne).

The region is full a charming little villages as well as old and scenic vineyards.

Plan your visit

• This region has 2 Unesco listing - one for the Reims center including the Cathedral and one for the Champagne vineyards.
• You can start your day in Reims and its impressive Cathedral (#28)
• Most of the champagne houses have their headquarters either in Reims or in Epernay
• Visit some of the most famous vineyards such as Möet et Chandon, Veuve Cliquot or the historic ones such as Hautvillers and Aÿ.
• And drive around the beautiful fields on rolling hills...
• Paris to the heart of the Champagne region - 2h drive
• Paris to Reims : 1h40 via Mortoway A4 (Autoroute de l'Est) - 11€ of tolls each way
• Reims Cathedral GPS - 49°15'12.1"N 4°01'57.4"E
• Reims to Epernay - 40min, nice drive
• Then find your favorite champagne, go on their website and see what cna be visited

Not really an option if you want to visit the vineyards. Unless you take the train to Reims and take one cellar tour from there with a specific Champagne House.

Driving or tasting, you have to choose. So, it might be better to book a Day tour from Paris 🙂 Different tours are proposed. Most go to the famous Moët and Chandon, some take you more around in the region.

I found 2 tours where I think the program is great:  - One focusses more on combining with Food tasting - Check out program and Book - The other one focusses more on history - Check out Program and Book - Or check out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

And don't forget to purchase Travel insurance! I wish you a very smooth trip, but my policy is: better be prepared. I personally use World Nomads. Get a quote online here .

CASTLES - Best Day Tours from Paris

A very good reason to visit France is for the many castles. I have selected the most impressive or the most significant ones in terms of History, and of course, only the ones accessible from Paris within a day. Here are the best castles to visit around Paris:

#1 - VERSAILLES CASTLE

SHORT -  45 drive Each way (1h30 return)

Why visit Versailles?

Well because it is VERSAILLES! The most famous of all the French Castles. It is very close to Paris and can keep you very busy for the whole day (and several days actually).

The palace is huge, its gardens magnificent with statues and fountains.

If you visit the interior, you will discover the opulence and over the top decor, including the famous 'Galleries des glaces' with mirrors, gold and crystal chandeliers.

It was the home of several kings from Louis XIV to Louis XVI.

• Opening hours - from April to October: the park is open everyday from 7am to 8:30pm - the palace is open everyday except Mondays from 9am to 6:30pm
• Opening hours - from November to March:  park is opened until 6pm and palace until 5:30pm
• Plan a full day to really explore it, and wear comfortable shoes!
• I really don't recommend driving in the Paris suburbs but if you want your freedom in terms of time that is possible
• Located South West of Paris
• It takes 45 during to drive there or more if you are stuck in traffic jams
• Parking lot GPS - 48°48'11.2"N 2°07'30.3"E
• To avoid queueing at the ticket booth once there, you can pre-purchase a ticket online in your own currency
• You can take the suburban train from Paris: Take RER C (yellow line) Towards Versailles Rive Gauche and walk for 10 minutes to the castle. 
• Pay attention because there are different types of RER C and one that goes to another Versailles stop. You want to make sure on the display board that your train has 'Versailles Rives Gauche' in the list of stops (But if you make a mistake, don't panic! get out at one of the Versailles stop and take a short taxi ride or walk for 20 minutes instead of 10...)
• Once you are onboard the RER, it is a 30 to 35min journey
• One way ticket is 3.65€ as of September 2017
• To avoid queueing at the ticket booth once there, you can pre-purchase a ticket online

If you don't want to bother finding out how French suburban trains work, companies organize shuttles combined with skip-the line tickets. I recommend choosing a tour that leaves from specific points in Paris and does not tour all the hotels to pick people up. This is such a drag! Reserve your seats .

I don't recommend tours that take you to another location on top of Versailles. This castle and its garden are huge. It could occupy you for several days!

#2 - FONTAINEBLEAU CASTLE

SHORT - 1h drive Each way

Why visit Fontainebleau?

Quite close to Paris, this castle is also a Unesco Site. It has had a long history since the 12th century. It started as a hunting lodge surrounded by a lush forest and royals have enjoyed it for 8th century! So, many historical events have played out here 🙂 The current palace is from the 16th century. It is quite famous for its photogenic staircase to the front entrance.

The gardens are not as beautiful as those of Versailles, but the interior is heavily furnished and decorated and you won't have the crowds of Versailles!

• Opening hours: Apr to Sep: 9:30am to 6pm and Octo to Mar: 9:30am to 5pm
• Touring the interior will probably take you 2 hours
• Full price 11€ + 3€ for video guide
• Located South of Paris, in the town of Fontainebleau
• 1h drive without traffic on motorway A6 - no tolls
• Parking-lot GPS - 48°24'10.7"N 2°41'46.5"E
• This is not the easiest one to visit by public transportation
• From Gare de Lyon, take one of the 3 following trains: Train towards Montargis-Sens or Train to Montereau or Train to Laroche-Migennes
• Purchase ticket before getting onboard
• Descend at the Fontainebleau-Avon station and take local bus Line 1 towards destination 'Les Lilas' and stop at Château

Once again, if you don't want to find your way and just seat back, relax, and listen to the guide, you can join an organized tour from Paris. The tour allows you to visit 2 castles. This one Fontainebleau and and the nearby Vaux-le-Vicomte castle (#3). Check out the program and Book Or check out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

#3 - VAUX LE VICOMTE CASTLE 

Unesco Site - In discussion

The gardens are also worth a stroll 🙂

Go back up to the Favorite Section for the planning info.

#4 - CHANTILLY CASTLE

SHORT -  1h drive Each way

Unesco Site - No

Why visit the Chantilly Castle?

This Domaine of Chantilly is lesser known that the other castles around Paris and yet it offers a lot to the visitor!

Built around water and surrounded by forest, the Grand Palace is very scenic. It was rebuilt in the 19th century after it was destroyed during the French Revolution. There is also a Small Palace from the 16th, a famous Art museum (Musée Condé), the Great stables (with equestrian shows) and gardens designed by André Le Nôtre.

You sure won't get bored when visiting Chantilly!

The collection of art and the Reading room are really exceptional. 

I must admit that I hesitated to include it in my favorites.

• Opening hours High season - 25th Mar to 1st Nov: 10 am to 6PM
• Opening hours Low season - 28th Jan to 24 Mar: 10:30 am to 5PM - closed on Tuesdays
• Closed November to end Jan
• Plan enough time to cover the stables and the grand palace with its painting collection and amazing Reading room.
• Located North for Paris
• 1h drive via motorway A3 from Paris center
• Parking lot GPS - 49°11'29.1"N 2°29'09.0"E (you must pay for parking)
• 2 options - always get ticket before getting on board
• Suburban train RER D (51 minutes) Direction Creil and get off at Chantilly-Gouvieux - then walk for 15minutes to the station - You have to get the only RER D that goes all the way to that stop. But they are not frequent. 
• TER train from Gare du Nord Direction Creil or Compiègne  - Make sure Chantilly-Gouvieux is on the list of stops (25minutes).
• In both case check out the time on Transilien.com to make sure you don't miss them

Organized Tour 

If you want to just sit back, relax and learn more about the history of the place, join an organized excursion from Paris including the great stables and a delicious meal. Check out program and Book Or check out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

#5 - PIERREFONDS CASTLE

SHORT -  1H20 drive Each way (2h40 return)

Why visit Pierrefonds?

Pierrefonds has quite a unique history and architecture. Erected in the 14th century, it was destroyed in the 17th century and remained in ruins.

But Napoleon III asked the architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc to rebuilt it. And the design is made to be 'the ideal castle as it would have existed during the Middle Ages'.

So its appearance is very different from all the other castles we have around Paris.

And I love Medieval style, don't you?

• Opening hours 2nd May to 4th September - 9:30 am to 6pm
• Opening hours 5th September to April - 10am to 5:30pm
• Closed on some public holidays
• Entry price: 8€
• North East of Paris near Compiègne
• 1H20 drive from Paris via National 2
• Parking-lot GPS - 49°20'49.2"N 2°58'39.7"E

Other Options

• No easy public transport option
• I could not find an organized group tour for you

#6 - LOIRE VALLEY CASTLES

MEDIUM -  2h drive Each way (4h return)

Why visit the Loire Valley Castles?

South of Paris, the Loire Valley is one of the most magnificent regions of France. This very scenic area is home to some of the most magnificent castles and palaces as well as famous vineyards.

My favorite castle in that area is Amboise because of its location with the bridge and the village. SO charming! The most famous is probably Chambord because of its outrageous scale (the one on the photo)

But there are many more to discover in the region. Usse for its faily-tale towers and Azay-le-Rideau, that seems to be floating on water, are both also very popular.

• On a day tour from Paris, you have to decide beforehand which ones you want to visit.
• I recommend not to plan more than 2 castles to visit, but you can drive around to see others from the outside.
• On the site Experience Loire, you can find a complete list of the Loire Valley castles with photos
• South of Paris
• Chambord is 2h drive South of Paris, others are further South (30min to 1hour extra drive)
• Chambord Parking lot GPS - 47°36'56.3"N 1°30'39.4"E
• Chenonceau Parking lot GPS - 47°19'48.7"N 1°03'59.8"E
• Amboise Parking lot GPS - 47°24'51.8"N 0°59'09.0"E
• Cannot be easily reached by train

If you don't want to drive, you can join an organized tour that will take you to see several castles. My favorite program covers Chambord, Chenonceau and Amboise! Check out program and Book

Here I am proposing a tour that focusses on the castle. But later in the Gastronomy section, I have found a tour that combines castle and Loire Valley wine (#20)

Or check out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

#7 MONT ST MICHEL

The small rock promontory is covered with fortifications and a a magnificent monastery. It is a perfect example of feudal society.

Go back up to the Favorite Section for the planning info

Other castles accessible on a day trip from Paris (smaller or less scenic in my opinion)

• Grosbois Castle
• Malmaison Castle
• Breteuil Castle
• Rambouillet Castle
• Thoiry Castle
• Monte Cristo Castle
• Dampierre en Yvelines Castle
• Maisons-Lafitte Castle
• La Roch-Guyon Castle

Want to stay connected while in France?

If you don't have a European phone plan, be careful with your usage! But changing SIM card can be a pain.

So companies are renting pocket wifi hotspots on which you can connect several devices to keep chatting with friends or use Google maps.

Check out this system

VILLAGES & SMALL OLD TOWNS - Best Day Trips around Paris

France is filled with adorable villages in every region : Small churches, old houses, historical monuments... So for this selection, I only present the villages which have something extra for you than just being charming. Here are the best French villages to visit from Paris

#8 - PROVINS

SHORT -  1h15 drive Each way (2h30 return)

Why visit Provins?

Provins is one of the most famous villages in France. It is not far from Paris and is evidence of the development of fairs in medieval time.

Provins is often referred to as 'the medieval village' and it sure takes full advantage of its characteristics.

The medieval features are well preserved and you will feel like traveling back in time.

Don't miss the facolnry and equestrian show!

• You should plan a full day
• Sites include: The ramparts, the Caesar Tower (a keep with complex architecture), the barn, the underground galleries and museum.
• You could be enjoying 4 different shows - discover them here
• During the 2nd week of June, the Medieval Festival of Provins takes place in the city
• South East of Paris
• 1h15 drive from Paris
• Parking lot GPS - 48°33'38.5"N 3°16'44.7"E
• You can take the suburban Train from Paris Est To Provins (Train Line P - 1h30) - 11euros and then take the Provin's tourist line bus or walk - Get your ticket before getting on board the train. 

Consider this organized tour, that takes you to Provins on a coach and providing you tickets to the village and the falconry show while still having the flexibility to explore on your own  - check out program and book

#9 - HONFLEUR

Scenery / Seaside

Why visit Honfleur?

Honfleur is a charming little old town in Normandy. Located by the sea, this fishing village has been painted by many artists. The main bassin is surrounded by narrow colorful houses making it quite a unique sight. As you walk around you will be able to taste many of the french delicacies, especially the delicious regional cider.

Exploring Honfleur is like walking in a painting.

See my article about it

• Take your time to enjoy the unique atmosphere of this fishing village
• Stroll around the vieux-bassin
• Admire the old houses and the Saint-Catherine's church built of wood and much more
• Visit the many small boutiques selling tasty local produces
• Located in Normandy, North West of Paris
• 2 drive from Paris Via A13
• If you are driving, take a small detour to see the magnificent Normandy bridge on the Seine River - And you can combine with Le Havre (#30) a Unesco site and the cliffs at Etretat (#10)

Not really an option

If you don't want to drive, you can book a small group tour to Honfleur and the nearby famous beaches of Deauville and Trouville - You will discover some of the Monet's favorite views -   Check out Program and Book

You can also visit Honfleur on a gastronomy tour of Normandy, Check out number #22

#10 - ETRETAT

Go back up to the Favorite Section for planning info

#11 - GIVERNY

SHORT -  1H10 drive Each way

Why visit Giverny ?

Are you a big fan of Monet's painting or do you enjoy beautiful gardens? Then Giverny is a destination for you.

The small village houses the home of Monet and the famous gardens he painted so many times.

This is where he created some of his most iconic paintings.

You can also enjoy a small museum on impressionism.

• Take your time to enjoy the gardens (the Clos Normand and the water garden), let the artist in you appreciate the place 🙂
• Visit the Monet house and museum
• North West of Paris, near Vernon
• 1h10 drive from Paris via A13 (with tolls) or 1h20 via national roads (without tolls)
• Parking lot GPS - 49°04'30.8"N 1°31'48.5"E
• Take the train from Paris St Lazare and stop at Vernon-Giverny, then take the shuttle to Giverny (for 6km) .

If you don't want to worry about finding your way through public transportation, you can book an organized tour by minibus taking you directly to the house and the museum. Check out program and book

#12 - BARBIZON

Atmosphere / Art

SHORT -  1h drive Each way (2h return)

Why visit Barbizon?

Barbizon is a charming little village with small rock houses and a love for art. It is often called 'the artist's village'.

Many artists have made their home in this village and it houses the Barbizon school of painters.

Theodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet both lived in the village.

Today, the main street is lined up with old art studios converted into museums, art galleries and restaurant.

• Just stroll along the main street to soak in the artsy atmosphere - visit the galleries
• If you need a bit of nature after exploring Paris, you can also explore the nearby enchanting forest of Fontainebleau
• 1h drive from Paris (no tolls)
• Main raod GPS - 48°26'40.3"N 2°36'28.1"E
• Can be combined with a visit to Fontainebleau or Vaux-le-Vicomte Castles

Not the easiest...

Private tours are available to take you to both the castle of Fontainebleau (a Unesco site #2) and the village of Barbizon - Check out program and book

Other  villages close to Paris are also worth considering for a visit:

• Auvers sur Oise - sur les traces de Van Gogh
• Milly-a-Forêt
• Coulommiers
• And so many, especially in my region Normandy 🙂 along the Seine River: Les Andelys, Caudebec-en-Caux, La Bouille...

Note I have written other guides that could make your trip to Paris easier:

• Best places to say in Paris
• 10 detailed itineraries by themes to spend 3 days in Paris

WITH KIDS - Best One Day Trips from Paris

Traveling to Paris with Kids? #3 Vaux le Vicomte Castle and #8 Provins can be really fun for kids with activities and costumes. You can mix history with happy kids 🙂 However you may want to take one day to do an activity out of Paris that is geared towards only them. Below are 3 options:

#13 - DISNEYLAND

Kids / Thrill Rides

SHORT -  45min drive Each way (1h30 return)

Why visit Disneyland Paris?

Well, it's Disneyland! 

Princesses, crazy rides, Disney characters, parades...

All you are used to finding in a Disney amusement park (including, sadly, the long queues...)

• Opening hours: 10am to 8:30pm
• Wear good shoes to walk around
• Take a lot of water and an umbrella for the waiting time to get on rides
• Get more planning tips on this article about spending one day in Disneyland Paris
• East of Paris
• 45 drive from Paris via A4 (without traffic) - no tolls
• Parking Access GPS - 48°52'34.0"N 2°47'48.0"E
• If you visit by yourself, you can pre-purchase your tickets to skip the lin e
• Take RER A (red line) in the direction of Marne-la-valley. You can take it from different stations in Paris. Get off at Marne-la-Valley-Chessy (40 to 45min ride) and you are close to the entrance - 7.60€ for adults, 3€80 fro kids (subject to changes)
• If you visit by yourself, you can pre-purchase your tickets to skip the line

Purchase entrance ticket

If you don't want to bother driving and figuring out the RER, join an Express shuttle tour that includes entrance tickets  - Learn more and book here Or c heck out tour options here if you prefer the Viator platform

#14 - FRANCE MINIATURE

Architecture / History / Kids

Why visit France Miniature ?

I have such fond memories of this park. I visited when I was a pre-teen, on a tour organized by the company where my father worked. It was so much fun!

It is a very original activity that can please both the children and the adults.

In this park you can see a model of the most famous sites in France: Eiffel Tower, Cathedrals, Viaduct, Bridges, Castles; Villages... tout the entre France patrimoine 🙂

It also has slides, playgrounds and other fun things to do for the kids.

• Opening hours - check out here when the park is opened
• This is way more relax that the other parks. Take you camera because it is quite impressive what they have done!
• Note that it is quite an old park and no thrill ride, just small carousels, slides and playgrounds for kids - but still fun! there are more than 100 models
• West of Paris
• 45 min drive via A13 and A12  (when no traffic jams) - no tolls
• Parking lot GPS - 48°46'35.5"N 1°57'50.8"E
• 20min east you can combine with La Serre aux Papillons to watch many butterflies with bright colors flying around you - GPS 48°48'17.2"N 1°46'43.8"E
• You could take RER C to St Quentin en Yvelines and then a taxi ride to France Miniature

I could not find an organized tour to get you there, but I recommend purchasing the ticket before to skip the line at the ticket booth. Enter straight away and enjoy visiting France 🙂 - Get ticket

#15 - PARC ASTERIX

SHORT -  45min drive each way (1h30 return)

Why visit Asterix ?

Asterix is a fantastic alternative to the classic Disneyland. I have always preferred the atmosphere of this park.

You will probably cross path with Asterix, Obelix and Panoramix - will you drink the magic potion?

Not the same level of Thrill rides as Disneyland but I love the atmosphere way better.

• Opening hours - Outside of Summer, the park is not always opened during the week - check out the opening days on their calendar
• Check out the program of shows - here
• Pre-purchase ticket to avoid the ticket booth line
• North of Paris, just under the town of Creil
• 45 min drive from Paris via A3 (when no traffic jams) - no tolls
• Parking lots GPS - 49°08'13.8"N 2°34'27.5"E
• To avoid the ticket booth lines you can pre-purchase your entry tickets - Get them here
• No direct train - you can take the RER Line B to Aéroport Charles de Gaulle 1 and then ahead to the "Parc de Loisirs" desk to get a shuttle to Parc Asterix (shuttle every 30min)

Get a ride directly to Asterix, with entry tickets included:   Book Bus + entry

WWI & WWII History - Best Day Trips To Normandy from Paris (& other regions)

If you want to learn more about war history and see where it happened, several significant sites of World War I and World War II can be visited within a day trip from Paris to Normandy or other regions. War tourism from Paris: 

#16 - NORMANDY - CAEN & BEACHES - WWII

History / Scenery

LONG -  3h drive each way (6h return)

To Remember.

To Never Forget. 

And not to do it again.

The Normandy beaches were where the Allied troops landed towards the end of World War II on D-Day.

• The Caen memorial Museum is acclaimed and should be part of your journey
• Head to the beaches that interest you most
• The memorial in the photo above is at Omaha Beach
• Ouest of Paris 
• 2 to 3 hours from Paris depending on the selected beaches - Via A13 - 24€ of tolls one way
• Omaha Beach GPS - 49°22'11.7"N 0°52'48.7"W (memorial sculptures above)
• Caen Memorial Museum GPS - 49°11'49.3"N 0°22'56.7"W
• Difficult to cover several sites by train
• And even individual sites are not easily accessed by trains - You can go to Caen by train but then you would have to take a local bus or a taxi to go to the memorial museum

I found a small group tour (for better interactions with the guide) that includes Caen and a couple of landing beaches - Check out program and book

But if you want to be able to select your self the beaches to visit, I recommend booking a private tour.

Check out all tours here.

#17 - ARRAS & SOMME REGION - WWI

MEDIUM -  2h15 drive each way (4h30 return)

Unesco Site

Why visit the Arras Region?

The region is home to many cemeteries, memorials and traces of battles from the First World War's Western Front. Some sites are of major significance to Canadians such as the Canadian National Commemorative Park at Vimy. You will be able to see trenches, mine craters, and the strategic ridge tunnel network. Around Arras you can also visit the Historial of Péronne to learn more about WWI, its origins and consequences.

• So many sites to visit - check out for example the remembrance trail - Click here   (website is quite slow)
• Above on the picture is the Canadian National Vimy memorial
• North of Paris
• 2h15 drive from paris via A1 - 13€10 toll one way
• Canadian National  Vimy Memorial Parking lot GPS - 50°22'46.2"N 2°46'11.9"E
• Cabaret Rouge Cemetery in Souchez GPS - 50°22'50.5"N 2°44'29.8"E 
• or South of Arras - Memorial of Thiepval Parking lot GPS - 50°03'09.6"N 2°41'17.5"E
• Historial in Péronne - 49°55'45.3"N 2°55'56.8"E

There are so many sites that not all can be seen in one day. I found 2 interesting programs for you:

North of Arras, this tour focuses on the Vimy ridge and the Souchez cimetery   - Read Programme and Book

South of Arris, this will take you to other visible craters and systems from WWI ans well as the Museum in Péronne  - Check out program and book

#18 - VERDUN - WWI

LONG -  2h45 drive each way (5h30 return)

Why visit Verdun?

Verdun was one of the most tragic battles of WWI. In the area you can visit memorials, cimeteries, battelfileds, fort, trenches and war museum.

This region is home to the largest US cemetery in Europe at Meuse-Argonne

• Learn more about the different sites to visit on the Meuse Tourism website
• East of Paris, not far from Luxembourg
• 2H45 min drive from Paris via A4 - 20€ tolls one way
• Verdun Memorial GPS - 49°12'29.2"N 5°25'21.0"E

Your guide will tell you more about the war and its significant battles. He will help you understand all the remains of war you are seeing in the fields and how they were used -   Checkout Program and Book

Another significant site to visit is Oradour-sur-Glane in the South of France. It is one of the most emotionally-charged war sites you can visit in France. I saw it when I was a 15 or 16 and I can still feel the atmosphere. However it is a very long drive from paris (4 hours one-way)

GASTRONOMY - Best day tours out of Paris

Love French wines and French cuisine? Well, you can taste a lot of it in Paris, but if you want to see where it is made, let's head for a day to some regions close to Paris in order to learn more about what happens behind the taste.

I think gastronomy tours are better done with an organizing company, especially with all the wine we make in France 🙂 So no self drive options in this selection. And train would limit your movements too much.

#19 - CHAMPAGNE REGION

Gastronomy / Scenery

MEDIUM - 2h drive each way (4h return)

Champagne can only come from France, and only from the Champagne region (any other would be called sparkling wine, not champagne).

Driving or tasting, you have to choose. So, it might be better to book an Day tour from Paris 🙂 Different tours are proposed. Most go to the famous Moët and Chandon, Some take you more around in the region.

I found 2 tours that look quite good. - One focusses more on combining with Food tasting - Check out program and Book - The other focusses more on history - Check out Program and Book

#20 - LOIRE VALLEY

Gastronomy / Scenery / Architecture

MEDIUM -   2h drive Each way

Why visit Loire Valley ?

In the Castle section of this guide we focused on the Loire Valley only for its castles (#6). But it is also home to some excellent wines.

So you can combine gastronomy with architecture 🙂

I found a tour where you get to visit Chambord, drive by beautiful scenery and visit 2 family-run wineries for tasting. And you will enjoy lunch at a winegrower. Check out program and book

#21 - BURGUNDY

MEDIUM -  2h drive each way (4h return)

Why visit the Burgundy Region?

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Chablis, Crémant de Bourgogne (sparkling wine)... Some of the best wines in the Burgundy region!

Go on a tasting tour including the chablis village and its cellars built by monks.

You will taste many wines during the day and go through the Unesco site, protected because of its unique geological and climate conditions.

This program with a small group looks really tasty!  - Check out program and Book

#22 - NORMANDY CALVADOS

Gastronomy / Scenery : Architecture 

MEDIUM -   2h drive Each way (4h return)

Why visit The Calvados Region?

Want something different?

Go away from the wine regions and inside rural Normandy (my region).

Normandy is the region of Apple cider, Calvados Liqueur and many cheeses including Camembert.

All those can be tasted in beautiful scenery by the sea with Etretat, Honfleur and Fécamp.

The tour will allow you to learn more and taste Calvados as well as cider, visit the beautiful villages of Honfleur and Etretat. And you will finish in Fécamp for the Dom Benedictine Liqueur. Not your usual wine tour! Very unique - Check out program and Book

CITIES - Best Day Trips from Paris by Train

If you love discovering new cities, many are easily accesses from Paris on a day trip. You can even take the train to facilitate your journey. There are many many options, so below are my favorite and those who have a Unesco classified monument or area.

#23 - STRASBOURG

Things to see

• Gothic Cathedral
• Old Town section around the canals with old houses
• Street names with Alsacian Languages
• Cruise on the canal
• Christmas Market
• Modern architecture at the European Parliament
• Check out the possible activities in Strasbourg

Get there by train

2h15 TGV from Paris Est station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Strasbourg in Arrival

#24 - BORDEAUX

Architecture / History 

Not my favorite town in France, but it has been listed as the top city to visit in the World in 2017 by Lonely Planet  and it is a Unesco site for its historical center.

• Garonne River and bridges
• Basilica of St Michael
• Cité du Vin (Wine museum)
• Place the la Bourse (famous landmark with reflecting pool)
• Check out the possible activities in Bordeaux

2h TGV train from Paris Montparnasse station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Bordeaux St Jean in Arrival

Interesting varied city with fantastic gastronomy.  It is classified by the Unesco for its historical buildings that prove the importance of the city since the Roman times.

• Basilica Notre dame de Fourvière
• Place Bellecour
• Old Lyon with small street on hill
• Many Museums
• Parc de la Tête d'or (nature Park + zoo)
• Many fantastic restaurant to try - great gastronomy
• Check out the possible activities in Lyon

2h TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon Station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Lyon in Arrival

#26 - CHARTRES

LONG -  2h by train + switch

Visit mostly for the Cathedral Notre Dame

The Chartres Cathedral is the monument protected by Unesco. It was partly built during the 12th century with a vast nave and beautiful stained-glass windows.

The façade is ornamented with more than 4000 sculptures!

1h TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Le Mans and then 1h TER train from Le Mans to Chartres BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Chartres in Arrival

Might be easier to drive - 1h30 from Paris (with tolls)

#27 - AVIGNON

LONG -  2h45 by train + switch

Splendid Episcopal ensemble and great architecture. This is one of the historical and architectural jewels of France. In the 14th century, Avignon (in the South of France) was the seat of the papacy.

• Papal Palace
• Saint Bénézet bridge 
• Check out the possible activities in Avignon

2h40 TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon + 5 min Regional train to Avignon Centre BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Avignon centre in Arrival

#28 - REIMS

SHORT -  45min by train

Like in Chartres, the Cathedral in Reims is the masterpiece protected by Unesco.

A long history at that location, especially as this is where the Kings of France were crowned.

• Abbey of Saint-Rémi
• Palace of Tau
• Check out the possible activities in Reims

46 min TGV from Paris Est - attention take only the direct trains, no need to have a small switch to do BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Reims in Arrival

You can also easily drive there and combine with exploration of the Champagne region (#19)

#29 - NANCY

MEDIUM -  1h40 min by train

Its architecture and central structure were established during the 18th century when Stanislas Leszczynski tried making it a capital. This main square is listed on the Unesco Heritage.

• Place Stanislas - the Royal square
• Botanical Garden

1h40 TGV from Paris Est Station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Nancy Ville in Arrival

#30 - LE HAVRE

MEDIUM -  2h by train

We've seen many cities on the Unesco list because of their old architecture, so sometimes people are disappointed when discovering Le Havre - The city was destroyed during WWII and rebuilt by Auguste Perret with specific techniques and architecture, which is why it is now protected. The buildings are square and grey (but pinkish when the sun shines).

• Me -  it is my hometown 🙂
• The Perret Buildings including the apartments, Rue de Paris, the Town Hall and the unique St Joseph church
• Visit the apartment where they reinstalled as it was right after the war
• Enjoy the pebble beach which also saw its fair share of action during the war but was also immortalized by many impressionists
• Get up to the panoramic viewpoint
• Visit the Art Museum André Malraux

2h TER train from Paris St Lazare station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Le Havre in Arrival

Le Havre is also 2 hours from Paris driving. You can easily combine with Etretat (#10) or Honfleur (#9) via the Normandy Bridge

#31 - ROUEN

SHORT -  1h10 by train

Unesco Site - not yet

Rouen was one of the largest cities in medieval Europe

• Cathedral with its 16th century façade and "Butter Tower"
• Old streets with famous golden astronomical clock from the 14th century called "Gros Horloge"
• Jeanne d'arc Tower were Joan of Arc was brought in 1431 to be tortured

1h15 TER Train from Paris St Lazare station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Rouen in Arrival

MEDIUM -  1h35 by train

In Northern France, Laon has one of the most beautiful historical center in France.

• Exploring the center
• Abbey St Martin

1h35 TER Train from Paris Nord Station - only take direct trains BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Laon in Arrival

#33 - AMIENS

MEDIUM -  1h30 by train

Like Chartres, Reims and Bourges, Amiens is famous for its cathedral, listed by the Unesco. It is one of the largest Gothic churches of the 13th century

• Jules Verne House (museum about the author)
•  Museums

1h10 to 1h50 by regional Train from Paris Nord station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Amiens in Arrival

#34 - BOURGES

Like Chartres, Reims and Amiens, Bourges is famous for its cathedral, listed by the Unesco. It is a Gothic cathedral from the 12 and 13th century admired for its proportions and design.

• Hold Houses in the center
• Jacques Coeur palace (15th century)

2h regional train from Paris Austerlitz station - book direct trains for an easier trip BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Bourges in Arrival

Other French cities worth visiting

ABROAD - Best Side trips from Paris

Yes, it is possible to visit another country on a day tour from Paris. Below are 4 options for you to choose from.

#35 - LONDON, UK

So many things to see! With just one day, I recommend the Hop on Hop off bus to get an overview of the city and to pick 2 places to visit.

• Big Ben clock tower
• Cruise the Thames River
• Enjoy views from the London Eye
• Visit the Tower of London and admire the Crown Jewels ( Unesco site )
• Buckingham Palace
• Westminster church
• and the many amazing free museums
• Check out the possible activities in London

2h20 Eurostar train from Paris Nord station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and London in Arrival

++++ If you want help at the train station, you can book an organized trip that includes help at Paris Nord station, Return Train ticket on Eurostar, hop on hop off bus and cruise in London - Check out content and Book

#36 - BRUSSELS, BELGIUM

In Brussels, you can easily explore the center on foot.

• Market square with the grand palace  (a Unesco site )
• Iconic statue of Manneken pis
• Royal Palace
• Comic strip
• Eat chocolate, waffles and many other typical Belgian food
• Many museums
• Check out the possible activities in Brussels

#37 - LUXEMBOURG

Yes the small country of Luxembourg is easily accessed from Paris. It is stuck between France, Belgium and Germany.

• Grand Ducal Palace
• Old Quaters and fortification ( Unesco site )
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Museum of history
• Strolling around imagining the city is almost equal to the country
• Check out the possible activities in Luxembourg

2h20 TGV train from Paris Est station BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Luxembourg in Arrival

#38 - BRUGES, BELGIUM

Not a capital city, Bruges is not too far from France and its old historic center has been listed on the Unesco World Heritage . There is much to see in the charming city. I have very fond memories of it.

• Visit the chocolate museum and taste chocolate! Loved it
• Cathedral St Salvator
• Old Historic center
• Museums including the Diamond Museum
• Check out the possible activities in Bruges

Get there by Train

1h20 Thalys train from Paris Nord station to Bruxelles and 1h Regional train the Bruges BOOK your train ticket - Enter Paris in departure and Bruges in Arrival

++++ Get there by organized Tour

It would be easier to visit the wonders of Bruges on an organized tour from paris - Check out the program and book

Staying in Paris

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Reader Interactions

December 8, 2017 at 7:09 PM

hi plz im going to visit Paris for a week within a week and i was wondering if you can help me and guide me for a travel agency that can plan full-day trip or excursion from Paris to Strasbourg …. and how much does it cost ?

December 8, 2017 at 9:27 PM

Hi Shimma I am sorry but I don’t know any travel agency. I always book things myself. If it is just a day trip to Strasbourg, it is really easy to book the train ticket on Rail Europe ( http://www.jdoqocy.com/click-8309554-10766644 ). It will give you the price before you book so you will get an idea. Once at the Strasbourg station, you can go to the information desk and ask for a map. It is only a 10min walk to the very center of Strasbourg. The city is easy to visit on foot. I was there 10 days ago, the Christmas market is really nice this year and the boat tour company made a special map with all the areas of the market indicated. Have a great trip!

September 27, 2019 at 4:38 PM

Hi nice article

October 8, 2019 at 5:39 AM

Hello, I will visit Paris in this coming December. I have 3 days time in Paris. Would you recommend me to take one of these day to visit Brussel or spend 3 days in Paris will do?

** This is my first time to visit Paris.

Regards Kiki

October 8, 2019 at 9:03 AM

Hello! Being your first time, I would stay in Paris, there is much to see! Have a great time! Claire

October 27, 2019 at 4:34 PM

Thank you these are some great ideas for my next trip to Paris. I loved that you provided so much information so getting started will be easier.

October 27, 2019 at 8:12 PM

Thanks Veronica. I am glad you enjoyed it. I wish you a wonderful trip! Claire

Par Claire Robinson Region Lovers SARL 76600 Le Havre FRANCE VAT FR21845103191

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

1. Mont Saint Michel

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

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

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

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

2. Palace of Versailles

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

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

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

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

3. Disneyland Paris

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

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

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

4. Giverny and Claude Monet Gardens

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

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

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

5. Château de Fontainebleau

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

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

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

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

6. Parc Asterix

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

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

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

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

7. Chateau de Chantilly

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

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

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

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

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

8. Loire Valley

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

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

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

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

9. Reims & Champagne region

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

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

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

10. Normandy: D-Day Beaches

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

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

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

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

11. Château de Breteuil

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

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

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

12. France Miniature

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

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

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

13. Etretat in Normandy

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

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

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

14. Château de Vaux le Vicomte

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

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

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

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

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

15. Provins

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

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

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

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

16. Chartres

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

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

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

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20 Top-Rated Day Trips from Paris

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

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

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

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

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

1. Château de Versailles

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 16 Cloître Notre Dame, 28000 Chartres

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Château de Fontainebleau, 77300 Fontainebleau

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 7 Rue Connétable, Le Château, 60500 Chantilly

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Disneyland Paris, 77777 Marne-la-Vallée

Official site: www.disneylandparis.com

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 95270 Asnières-sur-Oise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: 78120 Rambouillet

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More on France

15 BEST DAY TRIPS FROM PARIS

Paris is brimming with fascinating attractions that you can stay for a week or two and you might still not see most of what it has to offer. But as one of the major cities in Europe, it is also a transportation hub and a good jump-off point to other destinations.

You can easily fill a week’s itinerary within Paris, but if you want to take a break and squeeze in a day trip to another destination in France or in another country in this corner of Europe, here are some of our suggestions.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

1. Versailles

Located southwest of Paris, Versailles is best known for its royal palace, the Château de Versailles. Built in 1682, it served as the residence for three generations of monarchs — King Louis XIV, King Louis XV, and the last king of France, King Louis XVI.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is so vast; you have to dedicate a whole day to explore it. Aside from the grand palace, don’t miss other points of interest including the Royal Apartments, the Grand Gallery (particularly the Hall of Mirrors), the Royal Chapel, the Royal Opera, and the gardens surrounding them. The Grand Trianon, the Petit Trianon, and the Hamlet of Marie Antoinette are also worth checking out.

The whole estate serves as a museum with huge collections of masterpieces. The buildings and halls inside present different architectural styles from the 17th to the 19th century.

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday. 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM (November – March); 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM (April – October); CLOSED (Mondays and some holidays) Rates : €18 (Palace); €20 (Whole Site); FREE (Below 18 y/o) Address: Place d’Armes, 78000 Versailles, France Nearest Train Station: Gare de Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche Station. Board the RER C train from Paris. From the station, take a short walk to the Tourist Office of Versailles. Travel time is 45-60 minutes.

You can book in advance through Klook! Here are your options:

2. Saint-Denis

Located almost 10km north of Paris, the suburban Saint-Denis is famous for its 12th-century basilica. From being a simple abbey, which was commissioned by King Dagobert I and was built on the burial place of St. Denis, it developed into a historical landmark that not only functions as a religious institution but also served as the final resting place of several monarchs of France.

The basilica is also a model architectural style that reflects the transition from Romanesque to the medieval Gothic design. The original abbey dates back to the 7th century.

Other attractions are the national stadium of France, Stade de France, and Cité du Cinéma. From Paris, you can take the regional train or the Metro train bound for Saint-Denis.

Nearest Train Station: There are three regional railway stations and five Paris Metro stations operating within the city. The nearest station will depend on which attraction you want to tackle first. RER D and B Trains operate to Saint-Denis.

Visiting Saint-Denis Basilica Cathedral? Skip the line by booking this express ticket from Klook.

Or maybe you are interested in booking a guided tour of Stade de France. You can check the inclusions here:

3. Mont Saint Michel

Located in the region of Normandy, over 300 kilometers west of Paris, Mont Saint Michel is a commune set on a tidal sandbank. This small, historic island is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It covers an area of about 7 hectares and is best known for its massive abbey that perched atop it like a sentinel guarding the island.

The Gothic-style abbey was dedicated to Archangel Michael, who was said to appear to a bishop while on the island in 709 AD. This makes the island a popular pilgrimage destination.

Nearest Train Station: Rennes Station. From here, it requires a bus ride to Mont Saint Michel. The total travel time is about 3.5 hours. From Montparnasse Station, the fare to Rennes starts at €43.

If you want to book a guided tour inclusive of roundtrip transfers, here are two options from Klook.

4. Fontainebleau

Fontainebleu is a favorite weekend destination for locals and another option for a day trip from Paris if you are clamoring for more royal residences and historic places. It has sprawling verdant woods, Fontainebleau Forest, that nurtures diverse flora and fauna and a site for outdoor activities such as trekking and climbing.

Another asset is the UNESCO-inscribed Château de Fontainebleau (Palace of Fontainebleau), which officially became a national museum in 1927. It served as the royal residence for some of the prominent French monarchs from medieval times to the Second Empire, carrying different architectural styles specifically Gothic and Renaissance.

Other attractions are Château de Vaux le Vicomte and Gâtinais Français Natural Regional Park.

Nearest Train Station: Fontainebleau–Avon Station. This station is served by Transilien Line R and regional TER trains which depart from Paris Gare de Lyon Station (Paris Lyon Station). The travel time is 40 minutes, and the fare starts at €8.85.

Book a guided tour with roundtrip transfers with Klook.

5. Loire Valley

Loire Valley is located southwest of Paris. In 2000, a large part of it was listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site for cultural, historical, architectural, and economic significance in Central France.

Straddling the Loire River, the lands are blanketed with orchards and vineyards, making it one of the world-class producer of many types of wines and gaining it the title ‘Garden of France’. Several wineries offer tours and wine-tasting. The valley also nestles historical villages, boasting over 300 chateaux with architectural significance.

Nearest Train Station: Tours Station or Amboise Station. The trains going to Tours or Amboise depart from Montparnasse Station. The travel time is about 1.5 hours, and the fare starts at €15 (Tours) and €36 (Amboise).

If you want to take a guided tour inclusive of roundtrip transfers, Klook offers castle tours and wine tours. Here are some of the options.

6. Burgundy

Burgundy is one of the most prolific and most well-known wine-producing regions in France. The vineyards of Burgundy are known to produce prized red and white wines from Pinot noir and Chardonnay grapes.

Apart from the vins, it prides itself on signature Dijon mustard and dishes such as Beef Burgundy, Époisses de Bourgogne cheese, and Coq Au Vin. For the historical landmarks, it has the Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy, Rock of Solutré, and medieval churches and castles.

Nearest Train Station: Dijon Ville Station or Beaune Station. Trains bound for Dijon or Beaune depart from Paris Gare De Lyon (Paris Lyon Station). The travel time is 2 to 2.5 hours. The fare starts at €29 (Dijon) and €34 (Beaune).

7. Normandy’s Historic Beaches

We already tackled Mont Saint Michel, but there are other destinations in France’s northwesternmost region. Normandy is divided into five departments, including the coastlines and the offshore islands.

The region’s name gives a hint about its origin — 9th century Viking settlers of Norwegian and Danish descents. The capital Rouen is the site where Joan of Arc was executed in the 15th century. Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen is a popular landmark in the capital.

Another point of interest is related to WWII — Omaha Beach, the location of the Battle of Normandy and D-Day landing. For foodies, Normandy is big on dairy products and apple orchards, which make it a major producer of cider.

Nearest Train Station: It depends on where you want to explore, but the most preferred are through Rouen-Rive-Droite Station and Caen Station (Gare de l’Ouest or Gare Calvados). The trains bound for Normandy departs from Gare Saint-Lazare (Saint Lazare Station) in Paris. The travel time is 2.5 to 3 hours. The fare starts at €10 (Rouen) and €19 (Caen).

For those who would like to join a group tour, you may check these options from Klook.

Located in the Upper Normandy Region, Giverny can be reached after an hour train ride from Paris.

What charms people is the fact that the French Impressionist painter, Claude Monet, had chosen to live and work here in the last quarter of the 19th century until his death in 1926. His home, including the gardens, was restored and turned into a museum in 1980.

Other attractions are the Museum of Impressionism Giverny and Hôtel Baudy

Nearest Train Station: Vernon Station. The train bound for Vernon departs from Gare Saint-Lazare (Saint Lazare Station). The travel time is about an hour. The fare starts at €16. From Vernon, get on a shuttle bound for Giverny.

If you like to join a group tour with roundtrip transfers, Klook is offering these two options: one is a combination of Versailles and Giverny tour and the other one focuses on Giverny and Claude Monet’s home and garden access.

9. Chantilly

Chantilly is located 38 kilometers north of Paris and can be reached by train in about half an hour. It is most famous for horseracing-related attractions like the prestigious Chantilly Racecourse and the Living Museum of the Horse. Both are within the vast estate of Château de Chantilly, the former residence of the princes of Condé. Aside from the Great Stables, where the Living Museum of the Horse is housed, the château also harbors the Musée Condé.

Nearest Train Station: Chantilly—Gouvieux Station. From Paris Gare du Nord (Paris Nord Station), trains depart for Chantilly-Gouvieux Station. The travel time is about 30 minutes. The fare starts at €8.70. From Chantilly station, you can reach the Château de Chantilly in 15-20 minutes on foot.

You might want to book an express ticket via Klook for Château de Chantilly. This way, you will be able to save time by not spending it queueing.

10. Bruges, Belgium

Traveling further to neighboring Belgium, the city of Bruges parades a lot of assets from its historic center to the coastal area. The city center is dotted with historical landmarks, including the UNESCO-recognized old town area that encompasses the Burg Square, Stadhuis, nearby museums, Markt, the 13th-century Belfry of Bruges, and the Church of Our Lady Bruges among others.

Aside from the ancient buildings and cobbled streets, the city is also known for the canals that meander across the city. Tourists can go sightseeing while cruising along the canals.

Nearest Train Station: Station Brugge (Bruges Station). Trains for Bruges from Paris depart from Gare du Nord (Paris Nord Station). The travel time is about 3 hours, and the fare starts at €41.

If you want a hassle-free trip, you can join a group day tour to Burges from Paris. This is inclusive of a guide (or audio guide), roundtrip transfers by air-conditioned coach, tax, canal cruise ticket, and toll fees.

11. Brussels, Belgium

Brussels is the capital of Belgium and is also an important political hub, serving as the de facto capital of the European Union. The map of the city is peppered with historical sites that are also inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Some of the prominent landmarks are Grand Place (Grote Markt), Atomium, Museum of Arts and History, the Town Hall, Mont des Arts (Kuntsberg), Cathedral of St. Michael and St. Gudula, the Royal Palace of Brussels, public parks, and other medieval buildings and churches. Another tourist-favorite is Manneken Pis, a statue of a little boy urinating into a fountain, a testament not just to the city’s art but also sense of humor. The one in the city center, which is what visitors are instantly drawn to, is actually a replica. The original is secured inside Brussels City Museum.

The food scene also attracts tourists. Brussels is famous for its fries (frits), signature waffles, and beer selection!

Nearest Train Station: Brussels has three main stations — Brussels Nord, Brussels Centrale, and Brussels Midi. The travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours. The fare starts at €52.

12. Provins

Provins is located southeast of Paris and is notable for its fortifications and structures that trace their roots back to the Middle Ages, which landed it on the UNESCO Worl Heritage Site. It used to have a robust trade industry and held regular trade fairs back in the day.

Other historical landmarks are the age-old city walls, Tour César (Cesar Tower), Les Souterrains de Provins (The Underground Galleries of Provins), and Grange Aux Dîmes (Tithe Barn).

Provins is also famous for its rose-based products like rose honey and rose jam. If you want to appreciate the beauty of the flower, you can go to the Rose Garden of Provins.

Nearest Train Station: Gare de Provins (Provins Station). Trains bound for Provins depart from Gare de l’Est in Paris. The travel time is about 1.5 hours, and the fare starts at €13.

13. Boulogne-Billancourt

Located in the western suburbs of Paris, Boulogne-Billancourt is hemmed by the Seine River on the west, east, and south borders. It is a highly urbanized zone, with booming industries like automobiles, aircraft factories, communications, and film production, making it one of the richest cities in France.

If you are a history buff, no need to worry as the city also has its share of cultural landmarks such as the Rothschild castle grounds and its garden, Buchillot, 14th-century Notre-Dame-des-Menus Boulogne, and City Hall Boulogne. Albert Kahn Museum, Museum of the 30s, Renault Museum, Parc de Saint-Cloud, and La Defense are other interesting tourist spots.

Nearest Train Station: Boulogne-Billancourt is served by five Paris Metro Stations. The nearest station depends on where you want to explore first. Board a train on Paris Metro Line 9 or 10.

14. Auvers-sur-Oise

Located about 27 kilometers from the Paris city center, Auvers-sur-Oise has charmed tourists like how it did with the other artists who chose to call it home. One of them is Vincent van Gogh, who also spent his last days here, particularly at L’Auberge Ravoux, previously an inn but now converted into a restaurant. He and his brother, Theo van Gogh, were both buried at Auvers-sur-Oise Town Cemetery.

Other tourist attractions are Church Notre-Dame de l’Assomption, Castle of Auvers, Daubigny Museum, Doctor Gachet’s House, and Absinthe Museum.

Nearest Train Station: Auver-sur-Oise Station or Chaponval Station. There are no direct trains from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise. You will need to change trains at Pontoise Station to Auvers. Trains to Pontoise depart from both Gare du Nord (Paris Nord Station) or Gare Saint-Lazare (Saint-Lazare Station). The travel time is about an hour. The fare starts at €6.15.

Rouen is the capital city of the Normandy region. It served as an important political center during the Roman Period and the Middle Ages; thus, the city is laden with medieval buildings and cobblestoned streets. It is also etched in history books as the site where Joan of Arc was executed.

Significant landmarks include Cathédrale Notre-Dame (Rouen Cathedral), Church of Saint Ouen, Church of Saint Maclou, Gros Horloge, Rouen Castle, Catholic Church of St Joan of Arc, and Museum of Fine Arts.

Nearest Train Station: Rouen-Rive-Droite Station. The trains bound for Normandy departs from Gare Saint-Lazare (Saint Lazare Station) in Paris. The travel time is 2.5 to 3 hours. The fare starts at €10.

Edited by Asta Alvarez

2021 • 3 • 29

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Home » Travel Guides » France » 15 Best Day Trips from Paris

15 Best Day Trips from Paris

It is hard to say anything about Paris that hasn’t already been said before. It’s the city of love, the home of famous artworks and beautiful architecture, a gastronomic extravaganza. The people are stylish and fashionable, the cuisine unrivalled, and there’s a famous landmark around every corner.

Once you’ve exhausted the must-do spots – climbed the Eiffel Tower, fought the crowds around the Mona Lisa, wandered along the Seine – you might look to venture further afield, and explore beyond the capital proper.

Here are fifteen of the best nearby spots to visit on a day trip from Paris.

1. Versailles

Once a quiet village, Versailles grew popular in the 17th century, when Louis XVII built a hunting lodge there.

The palace of Versailles was the centre of the absolute monarchy during the Ancien Régime, and this exclusivity shows in the stunning architecture of the buildings and the lavish rooms within.

Explore the exquisite gardens and learn about the history of the era, from Marie Antoinette to the Sun King.

Wander past fountains and sculptures in the gardens, and pay a visit to the fantastic Hall of Mirrors for a bit of a laugh.

2. Disneyland

It would be remiss to leave out Disneyland on a list of Paris day trips, though of course it is technically in Paris.

Hop on a shuttle from the city and spend the day meeting Mickey and friends, making yourself sick on the myriad roller coasters.

Head behind the scenes or catch a show in the Walt Disney Studio Park, where the real magic happens.

This is a great option for the whole family, with child-friendly rides on offer as well as full-on thrill rides for the adults.

3. Giverny and Monet’s Gardens

The picturesque village of Giverny is not only charming in itself, it has also been the source of inspiration to many highly respected Impressionist painters in its time.

Stroll past Hotel Baudy, where Manet and Renoir worked, and wind up at the home and gardens of one of France’s most influential painters, Claude Monet.

Monet lived in Giverny from 1883 to 1926, and poured hours of effort into his exquisitely well-kept gardens and charming house.

Pack a picnic and eat your lunch looking out onto a replica of the iconic Japanese bridge, featured in Monet’s most well-known work.

When you’ve had your fill of gardens, you can head over to the fascinating American Museum of Art, or wander aimlessly through Giverny’s streets, exploring its café scene.

If you feel like exploring a bit further afield, the neighbouring country of Belgium is reachable in a long day trip from France’s capital.

A UNESCO world heritage site, Bruges has a charming historical centre, filled with fantastic architecture from as early as the 12th century.

The works of Flemish painters such as van Eyck and Bosch are another key attraction of the city, and they can be viewed at the popular Groeningemuseum.

It would be wrong to visit Belgium without sampling its iconic cuisine, so take the opportunity somewhere in the day to sample moules-frites (mussels and chips) for lunch, accompanied by locally brewed Belgian beers, and, of course, chocolate.

5. Mont Saint-Michel

A rocky island located about one kilometre off the coast of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is well worth the day out.

Another UNESCO world heritage site, Mont Saint-Michel is a great spot to discover historic buildings, including the island’s towering abbey and its ramparts.

The drive through French countryside to reach it is almost as worthwhile as the location itself: you’ll pass through quaint, traditional Norman villages, which are worth a stop too.

Excitement will quickly build on the immediate approach, as the island truly looks like something out of a fairy tale.

6. Loire Valley

The Loire Valley boasts numerous Renaissance masterpieces in the form of grandiose chateaux, and this day trip is sure to impress.

Chambord, Chenonceau and Amboise are each arresting in their own right, and seen in sequence will leave you speechless.

Take in the spires and columns of the Chateau de Chambord, and climb its double-spiral staircase; learn about the fascinating history of the Chateau Chenonceau, run by women for much of its existence; and pay a visit to Francois I’s favourite home in Amboise.

In Amboise village, you may also want to seek out the resting place of Leonardo Da Vinci, if the rest wasn’t impressive enough.

7. Champagne Region

No trip to France would be complete without a visit to the home of its most famous export: Champagne.

Take the opportunity to brush up on your knowledge of this classy beverage, while visiting the locations where Moet, Veuve Clicquot and Dom Perignon are sourced.

Take lunch with a view over a vineyard, and sample a perfectly paired tipple while you eat – expect a lot of bubbles throughout the day! Wander through the bottle galleries, learning about the characteristics of each batch, and discover the art of opening a bottle to perfection.

You’ll return to Paris with your head spinning – and not just from the alcohol!

8. Normandy

For those who fancy themselves as a bit of a history nut, Normandy is the perfect place to explore.

The site of the infamous D Day landings, Normandy is also a picturesque place for a day out, albeit with a poignant history.

Arromanches’ artificial harbour, Colleville-sur-Mer’s American military century, Omaha Beach and Pointe du Hoc are all spots that should be visited for a full understanding of the events of the war.

The extensive Memorial de Caen explores the history behind D Day and the Second World War more broadly, with both memorial and a museum on offer.

This is the best place in Normandy to explore the events and consequences of D Day.

9. Chablis and North Burgundy

France is synonymous with good wine, and what better way to experience this than a trip to the wineries of Chablis and Burgundy, where some of the best stuff is made? Explore stunning chateaux and beautiful landscapes along the way, before ending the day by sampling some of the region’s best.

In your day out you will learn about the whole process of wine making, from picking the best grapes, to the fermenting process, to seeing how the produce is stored in barrels and cellars.

Find out how to properly sample wine, and visit a wine cellar built by monks – as if the rest of the day wasn’t fun enough.

10. Château de Fontainebleau

The Chateau de Fontainebleau offers more than 1500 rooms and 130 rooms for your exploring pleasure.

Continuously inhabited for over eight centuries, the Chateau was frequently used by visiting royalty – just think who might have walked the same floors you are.

On your visit, you will be able to find Marie Antoinette’s bed, the throne of Napoleon, French Renaissance and landscape gardens, and heaps more to keep you entertained.

It’s not hard to imagine what it would have been like to visit there centuries ago, among the well-preserved rooms and grounds.

Thanks to the Eurostar, visiting London in a day from Paris is not just possible, it’s actually very manageable.

You’ll have to set out early, but it’s worth it to explore London’s many famous landmarks from either side of the Thames: spot the London Eye, Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and more besides.

London’s best sights are very walkable, so spend the day wandering through political and historical points of significance, assisted by the help of the well-connected London Underground.

Then head to Spitalfields or Borough Market for a taste of lunch from around the world, or browse Brick Lane if you want some of the city’s best curry.

And before you know it, you’ll be heading back to Paris to sleep.

Suggested tour : Full-Day Trip from Paris to London

12. Medieval City of Provins

Provins is an exquisitely preserved medieval village, located in the Ile-de-France region.

Yet another UNESCO world heritage site, it offers visitors the chance to meander through ancient monuments – of which it has over 58 – as well as watching one of many medieval shows on offer, from falconry to horse shows.

Standing since the 11th century, Provins is a genuinely great day out for the whole family.

Suggested tour : Medieval City of Provins Full-Day Tour from Paris

With its half-timbered houses, antique dealers’ district, and stunning cathedral, the Norman city of Rouen is well worth a day trip.

On the way you’ll pass through the gorgeous countryside of the Seine valley, making the drive a delight in itself.

Rouen has been a source of inspiration for many famous French artists, including Pissarro and Monet, and as part of your trip the Museum of Fine Arts is a must-see, as one of the best of its kind in the region.

Admire masterpieces of sculpture, glorious paintings and intricate drawings from some of the world’s best known artists, from Rubens to Renoir.

14. The Somme Battlefields

For a more sobering, if fascinating, day trip experience, head to the Somme to get a look at some of the sites of the great tragedy of the First World War.

Explore Poziere, Thiepval and Longueval to visit the graves of those who were lost to the conflict, see memorials to those who fought, and take a look at the still-present remnants of the battlefields themselves.

At the Newfoundland Memorial you can experience life in the trenches in some small way, by walking through the well-preserved trench systems left as a reminder of the war.

Finally, for a deeper education on the subject matter, take a look at the Historial in Peronne, which documents the origins and outcomes of the conflict.

15. Stables of Prince de Conde & Chantilly

For a more unusual historical visit, head to the famous stables of Prince de Conde, and take a fascinating tour of another side of France’s history: the Great Stables and Living Museum of the Horse.

See up close the country’s most famous racers, before getting stuck into a fascinating history lesson, ranging across culture, architecture, cuisine and more.

What better way to learn about the region’s noble family?

Finish off the visit with a delicious meal at the Chantilly Domain, sampling some delicious goat’s cheese. This tour can be booked online .

15 Best Day Trips from Paris:

• Giverny and Monet’s Gardens
• Mont Saint-Michel
• Loire Valley
• Champagne Region
• Chablis and North Burgundy
• Château de Fontainebleau
• Medieval City of Provins
• The Somme Battlefields
• Stables of Prince de Conde & Chantilly

Home > 11 Best Day Trips from Paris

11 Best Day Trips from Paris

Easy day trips from paris.

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

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

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

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

Paris Day Trips – Best Way to Visit

A. Day Trips from Paris By Train

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

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

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

B. With a Guided Tour

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

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

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

THESE ARE THE BEST DAY TOURS FROM PARIS

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

Map of Best Day Trips out of Paris

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

Best Day Trips from Paris by Train or Car

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

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

1. Day Trip from Paris to Versailles

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Versailles

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to Versailles

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

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Giverny

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to Giverny 

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

3. Day Trip from Paris to Mont St. Michel

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

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

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

Self-Guided Trip to Mont Saint-Michel

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to Mont St. Michel

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

4. Day Trip from Paris to Disneyland Paris

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Disneyland Paris

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to Disneyland Paris

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

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

5. Paris Day Trip to Loire Valley Castles

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

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

PARIS TO LOIRE VALLEY BY TRAIN:

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

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to the Loire Castles

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

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

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

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to the Loire Castles

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

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to the Normandy Landing Beaches

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

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

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

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

7. Day Trip from Paris to Champagne Wine Region

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

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Champagne

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to Champagne Wine Region

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

8. Paris Day Trip to Fontainebleau

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

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

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Fontainebleau

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

Best Day Tours from Paris to Fontainebleau

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

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

9. Day Drip from Paris to Provins

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Provins

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

10. Paris Day Trip to Chantilly

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Chantilly

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

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

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

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

Self-Guided Day Trip to Auvers-sur-Oise

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

Best Day Tours to Auvers-sur-Oise

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

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

Click here for more Side Trips from Paris

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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.

13 amazing Weekend Getaways from Paris by Train!

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Living in Paris and craving weekend getaways from the City? Or maybe you’re visiting and want to spend a weekend exploring beyond Paris? Discover these fantastic weekend getaways easily accessible by France’s efficient railroad system.

When day trips from Paris just don’t suffice, these escapes offer the perfect solution.

Experience everything from Normandy’s misty fields to Provence’s charming towns, explore various wine regions, or even hop over to a nearby country. This post has a weekend trip tailored to every taste and interest.

You also might be interested in these articles:

• 18 sublime Beaches near Paris France
• Monet’s Garden – visit Giverny from Paris (2023)
• Quick Weekend Guide to Bordeaux, St.Émilion & Arcachon
• 21 Best Day Trips by Train from Paris

Take a memorable weekend getaway from Paris by train

To be honest, even after 16 years of living in France, I still can’t wrap my head around how amazing train travel in France is. Taking a TGV (the French high-speed train) is in fact very often the quickest and most convenient way of transportation and one of my favorite travel tips for the region.

Salut, I am Lena – Travel Planning Expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

Can you even imagine that it takes only 2 hours to travel the 600 km from Paris to Bordeaux ? There are so many easy trips from Paris.

It opens up so many possibilities on overnight trips from Paris, that it’s hard to make a choice about where to travel next. My first-weekend getaway was from Paris to Étretat , a destination I can absolutely recommend, but there is so much more.

The South of France? Well, just bring one of the best underwater cameras to take lots of pictures at the beach. Wine tasting in Bordeaux? Or maybe Christmas shopping in London? Read on to know more about the best Paris weekend trips!

If you have less time, also take a look at our list of fantastic day trips from Paris by train .

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Fun Activities

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• Take an easy Day Trip by train

France – Weekend Trips from Pari s

Everyone needs short breaks from Paris from time to time, and this is the best occasion to explore more of France and to get to know the country. A weekend getaway from Paris by train is easy to organize and easy to take, especially if you are looking for quick trips from Paris.

Thanks to the high-speed train, you can even travel to the south of France just for a short weekend break from Paris. I asked around fellow France lovers and assembled this wonderful list of weekend trips from Paris. Which one is your favorite?

#1 Aix-en-Provence

Check out the most popular activities in Aix-en-Provence right away:

• wine tastings and visits to the most beautiful Provencal villages – click here for info
• visit the famous lavender fields of Provence – click here for more info
• explore the scenic Verdon Canyon – click here for more info

Distance and location: 3 hours 5 minutes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best for: art, dining, wine, a “South-of-France-feeling”, and lavender fields

Where to stay:  Maison Alberta  – refurbished apartment right in the center of the old town with balcony, kitchenette, and Wi-Fi

Book your train ticket to Aix-en-Provence here

Meander down the streets of Aix-en-Provence and you will understand why this is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris. This charming town is full of impressive town-house style palaces, and manicured trees. The town is also known as the ‘City of a Thousand Fountains’ , as beautifully carved stone fountains can be found on every corner.

Aix-en-Provence was also once the seat of power and aristocracy in Provence, giving it an opulent character. Sensational farmer’s markets come to life in the streets of Aix-en-Provence throughout the year.

You will find rows of fresh produce, olive products, cheese, bread, flowers, linens, antique finds, and many more. If you’d like to try out a local delicacy , pick yourself up a box of calissons , a diamond-shaped sweet made from almonds and candied melons, covered in icing.

The markets are also a good place if you are looking for budget things to do in Provence because they are wonderful to pick up reasonably priced lunch items and snacks.

Keen on exploring more of the beautiful Provence region? Why not join a Luberon Market & Village tour?

The famous 19th-century post-impressionist painter Paul Cezanne called Aix-en-Provence home. He is a point of pride for the Provencal locals. Visit the Atelier Cezanne where you can view the living conditions of Cezanne’s original house, and how he lived.

As a frequent visitor of Le Terrain des Peintres , Cezanne often used this garden for inspiration. Grab a picnic basket, buy a few ingredients and nibbles at the farmer’s market, and spend the day musing in the park.

Located in the center of Aix-en-Provence is Maison Alberta . This self-catered apartment comes with one spacious bedroom and bathroom, a kitchenette, and free Wi-Fi. Explore everything this beautiful town has to offer right outside your door.

Suggested by Haley of Haley Blackall Travel

Click here to book your entrance tickets for the most beautiful castles in the Loire Valley!

Distance and location: 1 hour and 40 minutes, Centre-Val de Loire

Best for: castles, wines, cycling

Where to stay: Clos d’Amboise – located in a 17th-century mansion with a large landscaped garden and a pool, in the center of Amboise.

Book your train ticket to Amboise here

It takes only a short train ride from Paris to Amboise in the Loire Valley. From the train station, just cross the bridge over the Loire River that leads to the charming town of Amboise.

Amboise is immediately recognizable by the château atop a steep hill that rises above the town. Visiting the UNESCO World-Heritage site Château Royal d’Amboise is a must – it has an intriguing history of royalty, death, and deceit and is the resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.

Da Vinci’s home in Amboise, Château du Clos Lucé is another must-see destination in this lovely Loire river town. Interestingly, both castles are connected by an underground tunnel, crossing the Parc Leonardo Da Vinci.

Tip: Save some time and purchase your tickets in advance: Clos Lucé and Château Royal d’Amboise (click the links to get to the vendor’s site)

Amboise also has a large Farmer’s Market, Marché Dominical d’Amboise , in which foodies can easily spend two hours. It’s a great place to try some items from your French food bucket list ! There are also many other castles, an old Clock Tower ( Tour De L’Horloge ), chapels, and old stone churches.

A very popular activity in Amboise is visiting a local wine cave to enjoy a wine tasting with paired food .  If you’re looking for a stay in the Loire Valley for a few days, then Amboise is also a wonderful base for exploring nearby castles such as Château Chenonceau and Château de Chambord. Click here to get more information on this great Loire Valley castle tour!

Thank you, Monique at Trip Anthropologist

Distance and location: 3 hours and 5 minutes, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur

Best for : medieval architecture, sightseeing, South-of-France-flair

Where to stay: Le Magnan – for its colorful rooms, the nice garden, and its great location right in the center of the old town of Avignon

Book your train ticket to Avignon from Paris here

Avignon is charmingly set on one of the longest rivers in France – the Rhone. Avignon is almost 700 km away from Paris, so It’s hard to believe that by train, the trip only takes 2.5 hours. The Avignon Train Station is located 10 minutes away from the town center, and busses are running all the time. Once you arrive in Avignon, there are plenty of things to do and see to make your trip worthwhile!

The old town of Avignon has been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site for its beauty and historical importance. It’s filled with historic buildings like the Palais des Papes (Papal Palace), which dates back to the 13th century when it was home to seven different popes over 130 years. There are also tons of smaller attractions like Saint Pierre Cathedral , one of the most beautiful churches in the south of France.

If you’re in the mood for food and wine, the La Fourchette restaurant is a must. They specialize in quality regional French cuisine and have lovely decor, plus Michelin recognizes them for their good cooking.

Avignon is also a great base to explore the beautiful Provence region, with its small villages, vineyards, and magnificent lavender fields.

Thank you, Ania from The Travelling Twins

#4 Bordeaux

Distance and location: 2 hours 7 minutes, Nouvelle-Aquitaine

best for: wine, museums, more wine, and architecture

Where to stay:  Hotel Mercure Centre Ville – to be within walking distance from all the attractions and many restaurants

Book your train ticket to Bordeaux from Paris here

Bordeaux is an extremely underrated city in France and should be at the top of your list of places to see from Paris by train. The journey takes around 2,5 hours and is convenient and easy. Bordeaux is a city that is rich in history and culture, which makes it almost the best weekend trip from Paris.

There is a lot to see and do in this beautiful city, and you’ll fall in love with the incredible architecture and historic buildings that make this city so popular among locals and tourists.

Of course, Bordeaux is known for its world-famous wines . The little town of Saint Emilion is one of the most famous wine areas in the world and is located just outside the city of Bordeaux. You can easily reach it by train, and it’s one of the best places to visit to try wines and learn all about the unique wine-making process. For your convenience, you can also simply join a wine tasting tour to Saint Emilion from Bordeaux. Click here for the most popular offers!

If you’re looking for a reasonably priced and centrally located hotel in Bordeaux, check out the Hôtel Mercure Bordeaux Cité Mondiale Centre-Ville . You’ll be within walking distance from all the attractions like the Place de la Bourse or the Quais de Bordeaux and close to lots of different restaurants and bars. Don’t forget to try the delicious Canneles de Bordeaux which are little pastries that are absolutely addicting. 

Thank you, Victoria from Guide Your Travel

Distance and location: 1 hour and 58 minutes, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

best for: gastronomy, street art, sightseeing, roman ruins

Where to stay:  Fourviere Hotel – a delightful boutique hotel with a spa area and sauna and amazing views over Lyon. For a cheaper place to stay, check the Hotel Lyon Charité , very central and full of charme.

Book your train ticket to Lyon here

Lyon is often bypassed by visitors heading from Paris to Provence. Yet, it’s halfway between the two and a world-class city when it comes to beauty and history, and there are many things to do in Lyon . It is one of the easiest short trips from Paris.

Lyon is France’s gastronomical capital, and you could visit for the food alone. It is home to the famous Les Halles Paul Bocuse , and a range of restaurants, from its 17 Michelin-starred establishments to the city’s 22 “official” bouchons, or traditional eating establishments (not to mention all the other restaurants and outdoor markets).

If you are keen on combining a nice sightseeing activity with a foodie experience, check out the Rhône lunch and dinner cruises . They are very popular!

If you’re not a foodie, you can seek out some of the more than 100 giant murals of Lyon , explore the Old Town, take the funicular up to the Fourvière Basilica for a spectacular view from above, check out some of the best museums in Lyon , or discover the city’s “traboules”, the obscure little passageways once used by the city’s silk workers to carry their bolts of cloth to the ships along the river below. Lyon, once the capital of silk, keeps that heritage alive through museums and workshops.

Two more attractions that mustn’t be missed in Lyon: the ultra-modern Musée des Confluences ( click here for tickets ), all about human culture, and at the other end of time, the city’s impressive Roman ruins.

Thank you, Leyla Alyanak from Offbeat France! 

Click here for the reasonably priced Nantes City pass that covers as good as every sight in Nantes!

Distance and location: 1 hour 56 minutes, Loire-Atlantique

Best for sightseeing, history, fun

Where to stay:  Le Pérouse Hotel – for affordable luxury in the heart of the city

Book your train from Paris to Nantes here

One of the most unexpected weekend getaways that are easily accessible from Paris and yet many miss in favor of more popular destinations is the city of Nantes. Located in Western France and not far from the crashing waves of the coast of Brittany, the city is best seen over the course of several days due to the plethora of activities to see and do there.

Check out the Nantes City Card Pass – it’s not too expensive and grants free admission to most of Nantes’ top attractions.

During the Middle Ages, the city was home to the Dukes of Brittany, and today, vestiges of the past can be found throughout the city. One of the most notable landmarks is that of the medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne. Head to the château to wander around the historic ramparts for one of the best views that Nantes has to offer.

Elsewhere in the city, the district that houses the Machines de l’Ile à Nantes is a fun area for all ages on account of the fact that it’s here where visitors will discover fantastical oversized machines that look like giant animals. For a small fee, there’s even the possibility to ride on the back of a mechanical elephant. Other highlights of Nantes include checking out all of the eateries in the largely pedestrianized Bouffay district and snapping photos of the luxurious Passage Pommeraye.

The number of things to do plus the laid-back vibe makes Nantes one of the best 2-day trips from Paris.

The nicest place to stay in Nantes is the four-star Le Pérouse hotel , which offers affordable luxury in the heart of the city.

Thank you, Sophie Nadeau of solosophie.com

Distance and location: 2 hours and 30 minutes, Brittany

Best for: beach, seafood, outdoor activities

Where to stay:  La Maison des Armateurs – perfectly located in the old town of Saint-Malo

Book your train from Paris to Saint-Malo here

St. Malo is a medieval town, rebuilt after World War II, on the northern coast of Brittany . From Paris, it’s easy to get there by train. Depending on the train you catch, it can be a ride as short as two hours thirty from the Montparnasse station.

Located on a strategically important part of the French coast, St. Malo was the place where corsairs and privateers plied the water, searching for treasure in the 16th century and applauded by the king. Walking in the old town, it’s possible to walk the wide ramparts , visit the two forts, Solidor Tower, and of course the spectacular cathedral and beaches.

When the tide is out, it’s popular to walk across two of the nearby islands, Grand Be and Petit Be . Just be sure to head back to town when the alarm sounds, so you don’t get stranded. Other popular things to do include a state-of-the-art Aquarium (get your tickets here ), boat trips to Dinard, or ferries to the British Isles of Guernsey and Jersey . As well as wandering the streets and looking for oysters or galettes (savory crepes) which are famous in this area.

Whether you are just stopping over or spending a few days, you will never forget St. Malo. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in France , with its proximity to wonderful beaches and fishing towns, its views from the ramparts, and its amazing culinary tradition. You will love it.

Thank you, Corinne Vail

#8 Strasbourg

Distance and location: 1 hour 50 minutes, Alsace

Best for: sightseeing, Christmas markets, wine

Where to stay:  Okko Hotels Strasbourg – modern design hotel at the old harbor of Strasbourg, close to historical center

Book your train ticket to Strasbourg here

Strasbourg is without a doubt a perfect place to spend a weekend getaway from Paris. There’s easy enough to do to spend multiple days in this city, and it’s so charming that you’ll instantly feel like on holiday!

During its history, Strasbourg has been part of both France and Germany and therefore, you can clearly see these influences in the city. It is an absolute must to take your time to stroll around the old city center, as the buildings are just so magnificent here! Also, make your way to Neustadt where you can clearly see the German influences in the architecture.

Other great activities are visiting Barrage Vauban , walking around Grande Île, and visiting the impressive gothic cathedral. Strasbourg is also known for its magical Christmas market, the city is even called ‘the Capital of Christmas’! And there’s a good reason for that because the Christmas market of Strasbourg is huge, and the whole city is wonderfully decorated to convey the Christmas atmosphere. You might experience this incredible event when planning your getaway to Strasbourg in December .

During your visit, you can’t go wrong by staying at Okko Hotels S trasbourg Centre. This modern hotel is located in the old harbor of Strasbourg, which has recently been transformed into a hip neighborhood. From there, it’s only a short walk to the city’s historical center, or you can just take the tram which stops next door.

Thank you, Emma from Emma’s Roadmap

Belgium – Weekend Trips from Paris

If you are looking into exploring more of Europe, Belgium is a good start. It’s a great destination if you want to take weekend trips from Paris to other countries and pick some cool Belgium souvenirs . It is actually the closest country to Paris and has many exciting destinations to offer if you are looking for the best overnight trips from Paris.

Distance and location: 2 hours 2 minutes, Flemish Region

best for: art, shopping, architecture, Belgian beer, and fries

Where to stay:  Hampton by Hilton – big rooms centrally located close to the station and with a good breakfast included

Book your train ticket to Antwerp here

Antwerp, the diamond capital of the world , is one of the best weekend getaways from Paris. Located within 400 km, one can easily reach this Belgian city from Paris by train in as few as two hours. The diamond district of Antwerp is where 220 million dollars worth of diamonds is traded daily. But besides being such an important trade hub, Antwerp has a unique multicultural landscape and a rich history.

The best places to explore in Antwerp for free are the Steen Castle, Schedlt river bank, Diamond District, Mier market, and the exquisitely beautiful Antwerp Central station.  These can easily be covered in one day in Antwerp on foot, either on your own or by joining a free walking tour through Antwerp.

Antwerp’s busy skyline is dominated by the 123-meter-tall tower of the Cathedral of our Lady of Victory and various sculptures related to Antwerpian folklore. These include the Brabo’s fountain in the central square and brabo’s hand among others. Besides, one of the best things to do in Antwerp is to visit the Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and St Paul’s church. Take a stroll in the Stadspark and eat your heart out on the foodies’ street.

There are several amazing hostels in the city of Antwerp thanks to the student population. However, one of the best hotels to stay at in Antwerp is Hampton by Hilton  situated near the Antwerp Central station.

Thank you, Sinjana!

Distance and location: 2 hours 36 minutes, West Flanders

Best for:  canals, chocolate, waffles, history

Where to stay:  Hotel Ter Brughe – located along a canal with incredible views of the water

Book your train ticket to Bruges here

Bruges in Belgium is another great destination if you are looking for trips from Paris by train.  Known for its colorful gingerbread houses that dot the historic square of the city, it is easily one of the most picturesque places to see in Europe. Full of medieval buildings, beautiful canals, and cathedrals , Bruge is perfect for a weekend getaway from Paris.

Start your time in Bruges by strolling around Market Square, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is a traffic-free zone in the city, so it is ideal to amble around without a plan and to take in the unique architecture of Bruges. The iconic Belfry tower is also situated here. You can climb the 366 steps to the top and get a unique bird’s eye perspective of the Old town. Next, located a few steps away, is another historic site called Burg Square . This is where you will find the Bruges City Hall, the Basilica of the Holy Blood, and an Old Civil Registry. This Basilica houses Michelangelo’s only sculpture that left Italy before his death. It is a truly noteworthy sight for art lovers.

Located right next to Burg Square, is Go.fre, a popular shop selling Belgian waffles on a stick. They offer many creative toppings and presentations. There are also many chocolate and other waffle shops nearby. The Hotel Ter Brughe is only a few minutes walking distance from this area and a good place to stay in Bruges.

Thanks for the recommendation, Charu from Travel with CG

#11 Brussels

Distance and location: 1 hour 22 minutes, Capital Region

best for: museums, Belgium beer, and chocolate, comic books, and murals

Where to stay:  Hotel Indigo Brussels – beautifully decorated hotel with spacious rooms in an excellent location

Book your train ticket to Brussels from Paris here

Brussels is the easiest capital in Europe to reach by train from Paris, which makes it a great weekend getaway destination or a fantastic part of your one-month Europe itinerary . It’s just a short trip from Paris. But apart from its conveniently close location to Paris, Brussels is also a great destination because of its beautiful attractions and delicious beer and food scene. Click here if beer and food sound interesting to you !

There are so many things to put on your Brussels weekend itinerary . You can marvel at the beautiful buildings in Grand Place, visit the popular Manneken Pis , shop in the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries, see the Royal Palace, and explore your favorite European cities in the Mini Europe Museum .

Once you’re done with sightseeing, an incredible beer, and food scene awaits you. Belgium is known for its many delicious things such as strong golden beer, fluffy warm waffles, and tasty Moules Frites (Mussels with fries), which you can find all over Brussels. So, you’ll have plenty of rainy day activities in Brussels .

Apart from the many attractions and things to eat in Brussels, it’s also a great city to just go get lost in. Brussels city center is full of cobblestone streets, old churches, and several viewpoints, so it will take you more than a weekend to run out of new things to see. To make sure not to miss anything, plan ahead and sign up for one of the popular walking tours through Brussels . You can take the Thalys train directly from Gare du Nord to Bruxelles-Midi in 1 hour and 20 minutes. Just make sure to book your weekend getaway ahead because it’s a popular route that tends to sell out.

Thank you, Cecilie from Worldwide Walkers

Are you looking for things to do in Brussels? Those are the most popular activities:

• 2.5-Hour Belgian Beer Tasting Experience – click here for more info
• Chocolate Workshop and Guided Walking Tour – click here to know more
• Brussels Mini Europe – book your ticket here

United Kingdom – Weekend Trips from Paris

Visiting the UK for a short weekend is probably one of the most exciting weekend trips from Paris by train that you can take. Thanks to the Eurostar train that is crossing the channel, it is unbelievably easy to visit London and explore the UK from there.

Distance and location:  2 hours 19 minutes, England

best for: sightseeing, shopping, museums

Where to stay:  Shangri-La The Shard for a truly amazing experience and once-in-a-lifetime view over London. Alternatively at the DoubleTree by Hilton Tower of London (midrange) or at the Ibis Styles Southwark on the budget range

Book your train ticket for the Eurostar from Paris to London here

London is hands down one of the best weekend trips from Paris by train, simply because in just 2.5 hours, you’ll be in a completely different country. From Paris, take the Eurostar from Gare du Nord, which will take you directly to London’s St. Pancras International Station .

London has a wide variety of activities to offer any traveler ( click here to get an idea ). If you enjoy museums, the Natural History Museum is a must-see and has tons of educational and engaging exhibitions. They also have a photography gallery filled with intriguing wildlife shots.

If you love relaxing in cafés, there are plenty of cute ones around town, from Peggy Porschen to Elan Cafe. If you are an art and theater enthusiast, there are tons of musicals to choose from, from the comical Book of Mormon to the sentimental Come From Away.

Of course, no trip to London would be complete without stopping by the iconic Tower Bridge, Big Ben, or Buckingham Palace , which is the official London residence of the royal family. These landmarks aren’t far from Soho, one of the best foodie neighborhoods in town. Be sure to stop by Palomar or Dishoom to get a taste of the wide range of international cuisine in town and for great evening entertainment, visit one of the secret bars in London !

If you have more time in London or are familiar with the top sights already, there are also many unusual things to do in London. For example, a visit to the Barbican Observatory or what about the Museum of Brands?

If you’re planning a longer trip, there are also plenty of amazing places to visit near London , such as the Cotswolds, Canterbury, and Dorset. For some of the best views in town, stay in Shangri-La The Shard and enjoy dining in the sky.

Thank you, Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

The Netherlands – Weekend Trips from Paris

Thanks to the Thalys train, which connects Paris with cities in Belgium, Germany but also the Netherlands, overnight trips from Paris to the Netherlands are a nice option for a getaway.

#13 Amsterdam

Distance and location: 3 hours 19 minutes, capital of the Netherlands

best for: Museums, coffee, and tea houses, canals, cycling

Where to stay:  Ibis Amsterdam Centre – for affordable comfort in the heart of Amsterdam

Book your train ticket to Amsterdam from Paris here

The capital of the Netherlands is a great destination for a weekend getaway from Paris. The beautiful city is just over 3 hours from Paris by train, making it a quick journey perfect for a long weekend. Amsterdam has plenty to do  to keep you busy during your getaway.

The city has some of the best museums in the world, and you should add at least one to your Amsterdam bucket list. The Rijksmuseum is home to many works by Rembrandt, and the Van Gogh Museum has the largest collection of famous artists’ works in the world. History buffs shouldn’t miss the Anne Frank House , where you can visit the actual house where Anne and her family hid during World War II.

With its picturesque canals and unique architecture, Amsterdam is one of the prettiest cities in Europe. You can easily spend hours roaming around the city, admiring the canals and historic buildings. For a unique perspective of the city, consider taking a canal tour , where you’ll learn more about the history of Amsterdam while cruising along its waterways. Click here for more information on schedules and prices.

Amsterdam is the perfect city to sample Dutch Cuisine. The Albert Cuyp Market is a great place to try all kinds of different foods, including raw herring, poffertjes, and fresh, warm stroopwafels. Getting to Amsterdam from Paris is simple – just take the Thalys from Paris Nord to Amsterdam Centraal. The Ibis Amsterdam Centre  is a great budget-friendly hotel close to Amsterdam’s top attractions.

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

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24 Best Day Trips from Paris in 2024

Written By: ThePlanetD Team

Updated On: February 9, 2024

Paris is so mesmerizing you might wonder why on Earth you’d want to leave – even just on a day trip. Don’t get sucked into this line of thinking, though, as Paris is surrounded by some spectacular attractions and day trips, some of which are accessible by direct trains in only two hours or less. You could be heading to Disneyland Paris, walking the royal apartments of Versailles, or taking in the somber history of the Normandy D-Day Beaches. There are tons of incredible day trips from Paris .

Table of Contents

Top Paris Day Trips

In this guide, we’ll cover the best day trips from Paris. These are all super easy day trips to organize. For the majority of these trips from Paris, you won’t need a car or shuttle – just have to get yourself to a train station. A day trip from Paris by train is cheap and eco-friendly, a massive win-win. And even the shuttle bus day trip options are much more sustainable, thanks to the group numbers. Ready to be inspired by some fabulous day trip options? Let’s get started.

1. D-Day Landing Beaches

The D-Day landing beaches are one of the most somber day trips from Paris that you can possibly take. The Normandy D-Day beaches were where Allied soldiers launched an attack across 50 miles of coastline. The attack was entirely catastrophic, only eventually succeeding through sheer grit. It was further aided by Hitler’s refusal to send reinforcements to Normandy, thinking it was a diversionary tactic. Estimates and historical records suggest that around 210,000 Allied casualties resulted from the D-Day landing in World War II. It is marked as one of the biggest tragedies in World War history. It is easily one of the most memorable day trips from Paris.

Aside from the D-Day Landing Beaches, France’s Normandy region is stunning. It is a nice change from the big city atmosphere to head to the coastline. And while there are no public transport options, you can take many guided tours, including a shuttle service from Paris. You can opt for a small group tour or go private to splurge a little. The drive is approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes one way, but definitely worth it. You can check out the D-Day Museum and hop along the different beaches on your day trip.

2. Disneyland Paris

Who hasn’t heard of Disneyland Paris? Disneyland Paris is one of the most iconic Paris day trips. All of Walt Disney Studios Park is childhood magic – from costumed characters to themed rides and delicious food. The entertainment resort has two theme parks, a vast selection of resort hotels, shopping, and entertainment facilities, and even a golf course (for the dads looking to escape princesses for a day). Set in Walt Disney Studios Park, Disneyland Paris is massive. It is one of the best family day trips, but it definitely demands an entire day or weekend trip. There’s much to do and see, and you’ll want to allow extra time for queues.

Disneyland Paris is just 40 minutes away from the city center of Paris. The Walt Disney Studios Park is an absolute breeze to navigate – you can hop on a direct line from Gare de Lyon or grab this deal which includes transport from Paris!

3. Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is a dramatic-looking tidal island situated between Normandy and Brittany. As far as UNESCO World Heritage Sites go, Mont Saint Michel is top-tier. And, honestly, it has been plastered across so many magazine covers and travel agent windows that you’ll have likely seen it before. Mont Saint Michel has a gothic-style Benedictine abbey, and the abbey and island are named after the archangel Saint Michael. The island is totally craggy looking – sitting on a rocky islet with its silhouette rising up in a mound of traditional stone buildings, finishing at a point with the spire of its abbey.

You can drive to Mont Saint Michel in 4 hours from Paris or take a shuttle bus. Alternatively, take the rapid 2.5-hour train from Paris to Dol-de-Bretagne train station and a 30-minute taxi to Mont Saint Michel. The final option is to jump on this tour that leaves from Paris!

4. Loire Valley Castles

The Loire Valley castles are thick with rich history, a lineage of French kings, and hiking trails that come alive in summer months. Loire Valley is always mentioned as far as day trips from Paris go. The combination of stunning scenery and French history is just impossible to resist. The Loire Valley has approximately 300 castles in just a 175-mile stretch of land around its river. The most popular are Château de Chenonceau, Château de Chambord, and Château d’Usse. Château de Chambord is the largest, most popular of the Loire Valley castles, attracting more than 700,000 visitors a year.

Depending on which castle you visit in the Loire Valley, this day trip may or may not be feasible by train from Paris. Château de Chenoceau is accessible by metro and trains in 3.5 hours from the Paris city center. Château de Chambord is also accessible using public transportation in 2 hours 45 minutes, requiring a mixture of trains and metro services. You may have to book a guided tour or shuttle service from Paris with others.

Antwerp is one of the day trips from Paris that sound ambitious but are actually super easy. It only takes between 2 hours and 2 hours and 40 minutes to get from Paris to Antwerp by train. The major port city is in Belgium , so you’ll whizz across the border on a high-speed service – passing the capital of Brussels as you go. Antwerp dates back to the Middle Ages and has some incredible history if you are interested in that period. While if you prefer your sparkly rocks, the Diamond District is where to go. The district is home to some of the best diamond traders and cutters. Buy the ring in Antwerp and propose in Paris… your secret is safe with us.

Antwerp is very walkable and is a fantastic day trip from Paris. This day trip is perfect if you want an easy experience but are excited about crossing into another country. Thanks to its excellent train connections and beautiful Diamond District, we had to add it to our list.

6. Luxembourg

Luxembourg is one of Europe’s smallest countries. The tiny landlocked country is tucked between Belgium, Germany, and France – conveniently, less than 3 hours away from Paris by train. Its capital, Luxembourg City, is an ideal candidate for a day trip thanks to its compact size. You can easily enjoy the old town, ancient fortifications, and fascinating landmarks with a day. These include Bock Casemates, a network of underground tunnels used as WWII bomb shelters. Luxembourg is much less visited than France and even Belgium, so this is one of the best day trips from Paris to get off the beaten track. And its First World War and Second World War history makes it a fantastic addition to all the war history in Paris – especially if you’ve already visited the D-day beaches.

From Paris, you just need to reach Garde de l’Est and catch the train directly to Luxembourg City. The train ride is just 2 hours and 10 minutes long, which is a breeze to organize and fit into a day trip schedule.

7. Château de Versailles

Château de Versailles is a beautiful day tour from Paris. If you haven’t watched Marie Antoinette yet, it is a must before you go. Versailles was once a hunting lodge before being transformed into a picture of exuberant luxury and grandeur by King Louis XIV. You can take a guided tour around the royal apartments, gardens, and gorgeous interiors. It is a grand place to visit and only 40 minutes away by metro – it’s easy to see why it is so popular.

You don’t need to worry about train tickets and booking in advance. Hopping on and off the metro is ridiculously easy in Paris. And the allure of Château de Versailles increased tenfold after the 2006 Marie Antoinette film. It is an oldie but goldie, an absolute must when it comes to day trips from Paris. If you prefer not to deal with the transportation issues this Day Trip Tour with a wine tasting is perfect for you.

8. Domaine de Chantilly

Domaine de Chantilly is a massive park that stretches over 19,000 acres. The park contains the Château de Chantilly, Musee Conde, and a Great Stables and Horse Museum. When it comes to French grandeur, Domaine de Chantilly is a fabulous day trip to take. The park is modeled in incredible likeness to the Marie Antoinette Garden. It is one of the most aesthetic day trips from Paris. The Horse Museum is also a rare element to this day trip, housing more than 200 items in its exhibitions and dozens of artwork. Domaine de Chantilly even offers horse shows at regular intervals throughout the year. So equestrians, keep your eyes out for any equine events that coincide with your schedule.

Domaine de Chantilly is just an hour away from Paris by public transportation. The journey is split into a 30-minute train ride from Gare du Nord, disembarking at Gare de Chantilly Gouvieux, and a final 20-30 minute walk. You can grab your Skip-the-line Ticket here.

9. Auvers Sur Oise

Auvers Sur Oise is a picturesque town in France, just a 50-minute train ride from Paris. It has that cobblestone street aesthetic, with dainty sidewalks and sweet, rural architecture. You can float around the town in a nice outfit and just channel the main character’s energy – stopping at one of its cafes for lunch. Alternatively, take things up a notch by visiting the Absinthe Museum. The Absinthe Museum teaches you about this famous licorice-tasting alcohol. It is a fun twist on a standard day trip to a pretty French town.

Vincent Van Gogh actually wrote to his brother to rave about the beauty of Auvers Sur Oise. If you need more persuading, that should seal the deal for you. Vincent Van Gogh spent his final days in Auvers Sur Oise, and you can actually visit his grave in the town’s cemetery. Picasso also ventured to Auvers Sur Oise, and the little French town provided lots of inspiration for 19th-century art. Get to it from Paris with this tour.

10. Medieval Town of Provins

Provins is another beautiful town with cobblestone streets. However, unlike Auvers Sur Oise, Provins gets its place on this guide for its architecture, not famous artist visitors. Provins has some of the most well-preserved medieval architecture in France, and its medieval aesthetic and history make it one of the best day trips from Paris. The town boasts a vast old town with ancient medieval ramparts and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. You can catch medieval re-enactments, with knights in costume demonstrating bird of prey handling, jousting, and more.

Provins is just an hour and 20 minutes from Paris by train. You can book train tickets in advance or just rock up and buy them on the day – as long as you leave adequate time. Provins is so much fun as a day trip. If you also have young children to consider, they’ll love the medieval shows and engaging exhibits. Provins is history made fun. What’s not to love?

11. Château de Fontainebleau

Château de Fontainebleau is set in a small region frequently referred to as a ’16th-century playground’, and it is on a similar wavelength to Versailles. Architecturally, everything is extravagant in Château de Fontainebleau, and its gardens were actually designed by the same landscape artist as in Château de Versailles. Château de Fontainebleau is the grand palace of Fontainebleau and was vamped up by Louis IX in the 13th century and refurbished again by François I in the later 16th and early 17th centuries. The result is Renaissance-style architecture – aside from one remaining medieval tower from Louis IX’s original refurbishment. It is beautiful and one of the most fascinating day trips from Paris from an architectural point of view.

If you want a quieter alternative to Château de Versailles, we suggest heading to Fontainebleau and visiting the Château. You can take a guided tour around its grounds and state apartments. Château de Fontainebleau is just an hour away by train from Paris – so a straightforward day trip to squeeze into a busy Paris itinerary . You can also opt for a small group tour like this one.

12. Plage Le Crotoy

Plage Le Crotoy is one of the best day trips from Paris. Picture a little beach town with a scenic boardwalk and colorful, traditional architecture. Le Crotoy is the perfect beach escape and has a beautiful atmosphere. And even better, it is just 2.5 hours from Paris by train. Bag those high-speed train tickets and head off for a beach day. Your Paris day trip doesn’t need to include intense sightseeing. In fact, with Plage Le Crotoy, you can use your Paris day trip as a time for relaxation – clocking off from your intensive tourist duties.

Plage Le Crotoy is a huge beach. This is just as well, considering it is the most popular beach to visit from Paris. It can get busy but arrive knowing this, and you’ll appreciate the lively atmosphere. A cheesy seaside trip is probably much needed after learning about French kings, World War II history, and architecture. Just a few hours from Paris, Plage Le Crotoy had to make it onto our list.

13. Giverny

Giverny is a beautiful town with a name for itself, thanks to the thousands of flowers blooming there yearly. Over 200,000 plants are growing in Giverny, and in spring and summer, the place absolutely comes to life with color and sweet-smelling plants. Apart from its flowers, the most popular thing to do in Giverny is to visit Monet’s Garden. More than 500,000 people visit the garden each year, and it is a significant site not only for its beauty but as a prominent place in art history. Monet famously lived in Giverny and took much of his inspiration from the city’s natural beauty.

You can easily take a  guided tour from Paris that includes round-trip transportation. Alternatively, catch the train to Vernon-Giverny and then a taxi or Uber to the town center.

Paris might be the French capital, but Reims is where to head to pop bottles. Reims is a major city for champagne production and, if you love champagne, one of the best day trips from Paris. It is the Champagne region capital and full of ‘Champagne houses’ offering tasting experiences. There are regular guided day tours running from Paris, many of which include round-trip transportation. Reims is also nicknamed the ‘city of kings’ thanks to its Gothic cathedral, where 34 different sovereigns were crowned. Champagne and royal history? Could it get any better?

Exploring the entirety of the Champagne region is quite an undertaking, as is completing the Champagne Trail. Reims is the ideal place to tip your toes on a time limit. Besides, Reims is less than an hour away from Paris by train. It is a super easy day trip destination to slink away to.

15. Chartres

Chartres is the winner when it comes to day-tripping to see gothic-style architecture. The whole city is centered around Chartres Cathedral, which is so stunning that it acts as an attraction in itself. Tourists pay to take guided walking tours of the cathedral and bask in its gothic glory. Chartres Cathedral is also massively significant in Christianity, and the cathedral is said to hold numerous holy relics, including the veil of the Virgin Mary.

According to religious legend, the veil is the one Mary wore while giving birth. Whether you believe it or not, pilgrims have flocked in their millions to see it for themselves. Once you’ve visited Chartres Cathedral, Chartres has the Cathedrale Notre Dame, too – a tombless crypt that dates back to the 11th century. When it comes to intriguing architecture and religious history, Chartres has the whole thing nailed to a tee.

Chartres is around an hour and 15 minutes from Paris by public transportation. Be prepared to hop between a few different metros and trains, but it is definitely worth the shuffling around. You can also drive the same journey in 1.5 hours if you wish.

Bruges is adorable. Forget Belgium’s major cities like Brussels; Bruges has a different vibe. There are no modern, towering buildings and contemporary infrastructure. Instead, you have medieval and Renaissance buildings and cobbles everywhere you turn. Bruges feels like a little time capsule. And in case you need more persuading, it is particularly famous for its Belgian chocolate. Bruges is the sort of place that you explore leisurely on foot, snapping photos of particularly beautiful streets and indulging in takeaway desserts. The whole city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, too, so don’t just take it from us. Bruges is catching attention from all over.

Bruges is one of the best day trips from Paris if you want a more wholesome experience. And conveniently, Bruges is reached by a simple 2.5-hour train ride from Paris. You just switch trains in Brussels, and there are only two legs of the journey to organize. As a side note, Brussels and Bruges are the perfect components for a weekend trip from Paris because of this train layout. If you have longer than a day, why not spend a day in each?

17. Boulogne-Billancourt

Boulogne-Billancourt is the total opposite to Bruges. Think of Boulogne-Billancourt as the extrovert of our day trips from Paris. Boulogne-Billancourt is loudly contemporary, full of glitz and glam, and massive shiny landmarks like the giant ball on La Seine Musicale. Boulogne-Billancourt is constantly pushing the cutting edge. Even in 1824, it became home to the world’s first suspension bridge. Extremely wealthy and technology-minded, Boulogne-Billancourt is great fun to experience as a tourist on a day trip. It also has three major museums, each museum dedicated to a section of the art world, be it sculptures or art deco furniture.

Boulogne-Billancourt is just a 30-minute metro ride from the city center, so you won’t struggle to squeeze this one into your itinerary. It is perfect for those with little time on their hands. In fact, it is actually classed as the western suburbs of Paris.

18. Goissainville

Goissainville is an eerie abandoned village just 25 minutes away from Paris on the metro and then a short taxi ride. The abandoned village is next to a thriving town of the same name – which is easy to remember regarding directions. You can walk the empty streets, get close to its abandoned mansion, and marvel at the old shops. Goissainville is too decrepit now to claim that it looks frozen in time. However, it is rare to see an entire village abandoned, and the scale of the experience makes Goissainville look a bit like a film set. Allow an hour or two to look around, and bring a camera.

Goissainville was mostly abandoned when the nearby airport was created, as the residents were quickly drained by the constant noise and disruption. Things got worse in 1973, though, when a plane from an airshow hurtled into the village in a tragic crash, killing both those onboard and numerous people on the ground. The sad story was the final straw, and Gossainville was left entirely.

London needs a little introduction. But did you know that you can reach London by train from Paris in just 2 hours and 20 minutes? London is one of the easiest day trips from Paris. You head straight through the Eurotunnel, cutting across the English Channel – you even get food service onboard. While we hate to tell you that the Eurotunnel is not transparent (it’s a common disappointment that travelers don’t get to look out at fish), it is one of the most convenient ways to make a day trip to the UK from France. You can spend all day visiting Buckingham Palace, riding the London Eye, and perhaps stopping by for a performance at Shakespeare’s Globe. Then just hop back on the train and through the Eurotunnel for dinner in Paris.

London is one of our most expensive day trips from Paris, but it is worth the spend. Plus, who doesn’t love combining multiple countries in one trip?

20. Gâtinais Francais Natural Regional Park

Gâtinais Francais Natural Regional Park is a gorgeous area of natural beauty. Eventually, even the biggest city lover starts to crave a natural getaway. And Gâtinais Francais Natural Regional Park is the perfect place to scratch that itch. The park spreads across acres and acres of forest and meadowlands. Cyclists and hikers adore the park for its outdoor opportunities, and it is one of the best places to visit if you want to hike or rent a bike. Domaine de Courances is a private ch â teau in the middle of Gâtinais Francais Natural Regional Park. It is the perfect break for a little bit of culture, not just nature. The privately owned property has 17 stunning ornamental pools and beautiful gardens and opens seasonally to visitors.

Gâtinais Francais Natural Regional Park is around an hour from Paris if you get a taxi for the final leg. It is a little tricky to visit using public transportation, but if you rent a car or research public transport lots in advance, it is one of the most rewarding day trips from Paris.

21. Brussels

We’ve already mentioned Antwerp, so why not consider Brussels as one of your prospective day trips from Paris? The Belgium capital has a reputation for history and culture. Brussels is the heart of the EU and a meeting point for political action. You can visit Grand Place, the Museum of the City of Brussels, Mini Europe, and even the Belgian Comic Strip Center. It is also just a 1.5-hour train ride from Paris. You can be in a totally different country in less than 2 hours – honestly, why are you still even debating this day trip? Heading to Brussels is a fantastic way to add extra oomph to your Paris holiday.

Brussels has plenty of character. You can hop off at the central train station and have a new capital city to begin sightseeing again. If you’ve already been in Paris for a while, this little urban refresher can be a breath of fresh air. It is also one of the shortest train rides you can take on a day trip from Paris, which is a strong plus.

22. Deauville

Deauville is basically where to go for fun and games. The seaside town has everything from horse riding on the beach to a giant casino and annual international film festivals. Deauville always has  something  on the go, which earned it a place in this guide. Our advice? Look up what’s on in Deauville when visiting Paris and see if you can get involved in any exciting events. Otherwise, just head to Deauville to let your hair down, perhaps going for a gallop on a beach or flutter in the casino. Deauville is pretty glamorous, but moreover, it is popular for its strong sense of fun.

Deauville is just 2.5 hours from Paris by train. The last train leaves late in the evening, so you should have plenty of time to enjoy Deauville before heading back to see Paris at night. It is an easy day trip and one of our most recommended trips from Paris if you want a fun, easygoing destination.

23. Chablis

Vino enthusiasts, listen up. Chablis is a lovely town for wine tasting. More acidic and less fruity than the more southern regions, Chablis creates a wonderful line of wines. And the region’s wines are renowned as one of the best to pair with fish. If you want a wine-tasting experience, Chablis is easily one of the top day trips from Paris. You can catch the train to Chablis in around 3 hours. However, the service is a little hit-and-miss, with quite an irregular schedule. Therefore, we’d suggest booking a Chablis wine-tasting tour from Paris. This way, you won’t have to worry about being responsible for directions on the way back either.

You’ll find wineries all over and around Chablis. So don’t worry about visiting specific wineries, especially since most take walk-in bookings.

24. Ch â teau de Pierrefonds

Château de Pierrefonds is a massive castle so beautiful that it has been featured in several movies, including the Joan of Arc film. If you fancy a fairytale-like experience, add Ch â teau de Pierrefonds to your list of day trips from Paris. Originally built around the 15th century, Ch â teau de Pierrefonds was refurbished in the 19th century as an intended residence for Napoleon III. It is fascinating to wander its hallways and observe the mixture of elegance and practicality. The castle boasts defensive features like a drawbridge and drop boxes and sublime sculptures and aesthetic features.

Ch â teau de Pierrefonds is a family-friendly day tour to take from Paris. While you can purchase audio tours, it is primarily an attraction to explore independently. This is nice on family day trips as it creates a zero-pressure environment for the children (and parents) and lets you take the tour at your own pace. Ch â teau de Pierrefonds is approximately 2.5 hours from Paris by train if you take a taxi for the final leg of the journey. Otherwise, it is a 2-hour drive.

Best Day Trips From Paris: FAQs

It is clear that day trips from Paris are worth wrenching yourself from the pull of the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Paris lies in Northern France, absolutely inundated with day trip options – whether you visit the Champagne region or Auvers Sur Oise. And there are plenty of guided tours and tour operators if you prefer using something other than public transportation. So, what else do you need to know before going on a Paris day trip? Here’s some essential information.

Can you do a day trip to Nice from Paris?

Nice is a 7-hour train ride from Paris, so while you could manage Nice as a 24-hour trip from Paris, it would be a push. We’d suggest taking a weekend trip to Nice instead of treating it as a day trip. This way, you get more time to appreciate the city and won’t burn out.

What is the closest country to Paris by train?

Belgium is the closest country to Paris by train – in fact, it takes just 1.5 hours to get from Paris to Brussels. However, the United Kingdom (accessed by the Eurotunnel to London) is also just 2 hours and 20 minutes away. Basically the perfect distance for a few glasses of wine.

Is Brussels worth a day trip from Paris?

Brussels is absolutely worth a day trip. Brussels is one of the quickest, most efficient day trips from Paris – perfect for combining two countries in a single trip.

How many days do you really need in Paris?

You should spend at least 3 days in Paris , ideally 5-7 days. 5-7 days will allow you to take a few day trips from Paris and easily explore the city. Paris is a city that you’ll burn out trying to see as quickly as possible. And with its incredible food culture and museums, you want to be able to sightsee leisurely.

To Conclude

Paris is famous for its delicious food and iconic architecture in its city center. But draw away from all of this with one of the incredible day trips from Paris. You could venture to Mont Saint Michel or take a Paris day trip to Disneyland Paris or the Loire Valley. Paris day trips are super varied. So you’ll find a suitable option regardless of whether you want a family day trip or are venturing out as just a couple.

Day trips from Paris are so exciting. Enjoy branching out from just the grandeur in the city center and pencil in at least one of these top Paris day trips.

Plan Your Next Trip to France With These Resources

• 22 Beautiful Cities In France To Visit
• 11 Interesting And Fun Facts About France
• 22 Best Places To Visit In The South Of France
• 21 Best Paris Hotels With Eiffel Tower Views
• How To Visit Paris On A Budget – 20 Tips To Save Money

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Really a wonderful locations and I love to read your article and I l always follow you on Youtube as well.

8 Easy day trips from Paris (to other countries in Europe)

By: Author Tiana Thompson

Posted on Last updated: June 9, 2023

Categories Day trips from Paris , Europe , Paris

Home » 8 Easy day trips from Paris (to other countries in Europe)

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Paris is a great city for a quick getaway, but it’s also the perfect jumping-off point for making a couple day trips from Paris to another country.

After trying all of Paris’ best brunch restaurants , seeing the Eiffel Tower and its other famous landmarks, and sipping your way through all the best speakeasies in Paris – what else is there to do?

Take a day trip of course!

Typical day trips from Paris include trips to Monet’s House in Giverny , the Palace of Versailles, or a day trip tour of the Champagne region of France . But you can easily spend a day in one of France’s neighboring countries!

Located in such a convenient location in Western Europe, France borders several other countries that can be reached in just a few hours by train or car, including Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy.

This makes Paris one of the best places to base yourself if you want to explore several different countries on a single trip.

Not only that, but Paris is also home to two international airports, Charles de Gaulle and Orly, which makes it easy to get in and out of the city for day trips!

P.S. Check out this article for my top picks for the best airlines to fly to Paris from the U.S. (and Europe!)

If you’re looking for some ideas for day trips from Paris, I’ve got you covered.

Whether you’re looking to explore a new culture or simply see some new scenery, there are a number of different countries that you can easily visit for a day trip from Paris .

If you’re visiting Paris and looking for something to do outside of the city, consider taking a day trip to one of these nearby countries.

This 10-page Paris travel guide includes all the best foods to eat in Paris, where to eat, the top things to do and see in Paris, including day trips, scenic tours, museums, attractions, and more. Find out the best (and worst) places to stay in Paris, including my top picks for hotels in each area. Links in this PDF are clickable so you can book your tours and hotels directly!

Best countries to visit from Paris for the day

The first country on our list is Belgium. Just a short train ride from Paris, Belgium is known for its delicious food, interesting history, and beautiful architecture. While in Belgium, be sure to visit the capital city of Brussels and try some of the country’s famous chocolate.

The next country on our list is Luxembourg. This small country is located just a few hours from Paris by train and makes for a great day trip. While in Luxembourg, be sure to visit the capital city of Luxembourg City and explore its many castles and museums.

The third country on our list is England. Though it may take a bit longer to get there from Paris, England makes for a great day trip or even a weekend getaway. While in England, be sure to visit the capital city of London and explore its many sights, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and the Tower of London.

The Netherlands

Last but not least on our list is the Netherlands. The Netherlands is located just a short train ride from Paris and is known for its windmills, tulips, and canals. While in the Netherlands, be sure to visit Amsterdam, the capital city, and explore its many museums and art galleries.

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8 best day trips from Paris to other countries

1. bruges, belgium.

Just a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris, Bruges is the perfect day trip for those who want to explore a new city without venturing too far from home. This medieval city is known for its canals, cobbled streets, and picturesque buildings.

Distance: 2h 55m (train) · 164 miles from Paris center

How to get to Bruges:

Getting to Bruges from Paris is easy! Simply take the Thalys train from Paris Gare du Nord to Bruges.

The journey takes about 3 hours and trains depart several times a day. Tickets for the Paris to Bruges train will run you around €60 for a one-way trip.

Flixbus offers a budget-friendly bus service from Paris to Bruges starting at just €17.99 for a one-way ticket. The journey takes around 5 hours, so it’s not the quickest option, but it is the most affordable.

What to do in Bruges:

• Visit the Markt square and buy some local produce
• Take a tour of the Choc-Story Chocolate museum
• Wander around the medieval city center and admire the architecture
• Learn how to cook at a Belgian Waffle making workshop
• Visit the Church of Our Lady, a 13th-century Gothic church with a tower that offers views of the city
• Take a boat cruise through one of Bruges’ many canals
• Explore the Freitmuseum (Museum of Fries)
• Go beer tasting at a local brewery

Want to stay a few days?

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Bruges here 👇

2. Brussels, Belgium

Located just a short train ride away from Paris, Brussels is the perfect destination for a day trip.

The city is home to many historical sights and cultural attractions, including the Grand Place, Manne. Brussels is also known for its delicious food, so be sure to try some of the local specialties like Belgian chocolate and waffles.

Distance: 2h 55m (train) · 160 miles from Paris center

How to get to Brussels from Paris:

The easiest way to get to Brussels from Paris is by train. Take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels-Midi station.

You can find cheap train tickets to Brussels from Paris on Omio here .

You can also reach Paris by bus or car, but the journey will take longer.

FlixBus is a good option for bus travel between the two cities, as they usually have multiple departures per day from Paris and tickets are pretty cheap. You can find a bus ticket from Paris to Brussels for around 20-30 EUR.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 4 hours.

Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay for parking in Brussels, so it’s not the most budget-friendly option!

What to do in Brussels:

There are plenty of things to do in Brussels, but some of the must-sees include:

• Drink your way through the city on a beer tasting tour of Brussels
• Visit the Grand Palace
• Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Brussels
• Wander around the Royal Palace of Brussels
• Visit the Free Design Museum and check out the Atomium , a steel structure that was built for Expo ’58
• Visit the Musee des Instruments de Musique, a music museum with over 8,000 instruments on display
• Create your own chocolate creations at a Belgian Chocolate Workshop
• Explore the Royal Palace of Brussels

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Brussels here 👇

3. Ghent, Belgium

Another great day trip from Paris is Ghent, Belgium. This beautiful city is located just an hour away by train and is known for its medieval architecture, canals, and cobbled streets.

Distance: 1h 10m (train) · 155 miles from Paris center

How to get to Ghent from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to Ghent is by train. You can take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels-Midi station and then transfer to a local train bound for Ghent.

The journey takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes in total.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 3 hours. Keep in mind that you’ll have to pay for parking in Ghent, as well as highway toll fees, so be prepared to have to spend some extra money if you travel by car.

A bus ride from Paris to Ghent will cost you around 20-30 EUR and take about 5 hours, depending on traffic.

FlixBus is a good option for bus travel between the two cities.

What to do in Ghent:

Ghent is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the must-sees include:

• Visit the Gravensteen Castle for a look at medieval architecture
• Take a city highlights tour of Ghent by bike
• Learn about Ghent’s medieval history on a medieval boat cruise of the city center
• Visit the belfry of Ghent, a 14th-century bell tower that offers views of the city
• Eat your way through Ghent on a guided city food & drink tour
• Explore one of the many museums, including the Ghent City Museum and the Museum of Fine Arts
• Marvel at Flemish architecture while strolling through the Patershol district

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Ghent here 👇

4. Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp, Belgium is another great option for a day trip from Paris. This city is located just over an hour away by train and is known for its diamond industry, medieval architecture, and fashion scene.

Distance: 2h 40m (train) · 184 miles from Paris center

How to get to Antwerp from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to Antwerp is by train. You can take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels-Midi station and then transfer to a local train bound for Antwerp.

The journey takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes in total.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 3 hours and 15 minutes. Keep in mind you will also have to pay international toll fees, gasoline, and parking within the city of Antwerp.

Budget travelers can opt for a bus trip to Antwerp from Paris, which will take about 5 hours.

Tickets cost between 20-30 EUR and can be booked through FlixBus .

What to do in Antwerp:

Antwerp is a beautiful city with plenty of things to see and do. Some of the must-sees include:

• Visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic cathedral known for its height and intricate architecture.
• Admire the graphic art of Edvard Munch, Francisco Goya, and Félicien Rops at Museum de Reede
• Explore the city on two wheels on a guided bike tour
• See zebras, penguins, and monkeys at the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world
• Take a private walking tour of Antwerp with a local guide
• See the Grote Markt, Antwerp’s main square lined with Gothic guildhalls

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Antwerp here 👇

5. London, United Kingdom

Just a few hours away by train, London makes for an easy and enjoyable day trip. London is known for its historic landmarks, shopping, and cultural diversity.

It’s a popular tourist destination due to its many attractions, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy on a day trip here.

Distance: 2h 20m (train) · 210 miles from Paris center

How to get to London from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to London is by train. You can take the Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord station directly to London St Pancras International. The journey takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes.

Tickets for the Eurostar can be quite expensive depending on what time of year you book, so it’s best to book in advance if possible.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 6 hours.

Keep in mind that you will have to pay for international tolls, gasoline, and parking within London (which is known to be extremely costly!).

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There are also a few budget-friendly bus options available from Paris to London. The ride will take about 11 hours, so it’s obviously not ideal for a day trip but could be a good option if you plan on staying for a few days.

Bus tickets from London to Paris start at around 25 EUR and can be booked through FlixBus.

What to do in London:

London is a huge city with plenty of things to see and do. You definitely won’t be bored in this vibrant city!

• Visit Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British monarch (See the changing of the guard ceremony if you can!)
• Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour of London to see all the major sites in one go
• Check out Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament
• Explore Hogwarts on a Harry Potter tour of Warner Bros Studio
• Explore Westminster Abbey, a Gothic cathedral where many British monarchs have been crowned
• Take a sightseeing boat cruise down the River Thames
• Visit the Tower of London and see the Crown Jewels Exhibition
• Take a ride on the London Eye , a giant Ferris wheel with views of the city
• Explore Hyde Park, one of the largest parks in London
• Try a traditional English breakfast at one of London’s many restaurants

There is so much to see and do in London that you could easily spend several days here and not get bored.

P.S. Check out my full Paris to London day trip itinerary + my top London travel tips here

If you’re looking to pack a lot into one day, I recommend starting with Buckingham Palace. Then, head over to Westminster Abbey and Houses of Parliament before walking across Tower Bridge for some great views.

After that, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral and take a ride on the London Eye. Lastly, explore Hyde Park before grabbing a traditional English breakfast.

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in London here 👇

6. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Just a few hours from Paris by train, Luxembourg City is the perfect destination for a day trip. The city is home to many historical landmarks and museums, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Distance: 2h (train) · 177 miles from Paris center

How to get to Luxembourg City from Paris:

The easiest way to get from Paris to Luxembourg City is by train. There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord station to Luxembourg City, and the journey takes about 2 hours.

Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance through the SNCF website or at the station.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 5 hours. You will have to pay for international tolls and gasoline, so it’s best to carpool if possible.

There is also a budget-friendly bus option available from Paris to Luxembourg City on Flixbus . The ride will take about 11 hours, so it’s obviously not ideal for a day trip but could be a good option if you plan on staying for a few days. Tickets from Paris to Luxembourg City start at around 25 EUR and can be booked through FlixBus.

What to do in Luxembourg City:

Luxembourg City is a historic and culturally rich city with plenty of things to see and do.

• Visit the Grand Ducal Palace, the official residence of the Grand Duke of Luxembourg
• Join a guided city walking and wine-tasting tour of Luxembourg
• Explore the Bock Casemates, a series of underground tunnels used as a military fortress
• Join a hop-on hop-off city line bus tour
• Walk through the picturesque Vianden Castle
• Explore the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial, a WWII cemetery with over 5,000 graves
• Visit the Mudam Contemporary Art Museum
• Take a 3-course American-themed dinner sightseeing tour in a real American school bus

There is so much to see and do in Luxembourg City that you could easily spend several days here.

If you’re looking to pack a lot into one day, I recommend starting with the Grand Ducal Palace.

Then, explore the Bock Casemates and Notre-Dame Cathedral. After that, walk through Vianden Castle and visit the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial. Lastly, visit the National Museum of History and Art.

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Luxembourg here 👇

7. Rotterdam, The Netherlands

The Netherlands’ second-largest city, Rotterdam is a bustling metropolis with plenty to see and do. It’s home to many historical landmarks and museums, as well as a lively nightlife scene.

Rotterdam is a great destination for a day trip from Amsterdam or Paris!

Distance : 3h (train) · 229 miles from Paris center

How to get to Rotterdam from Paris:

Getting to Rotterdam from Paris is easy and there are multiple transportation options available.

The fastest way to get from Paris to Rotterdam is by train. There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord station to Rotterdam Central station, and the journey takes about 3 hours. Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance through the SNCF website or at the station.

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 4 hours. You will have to pay for international tolls and gasoline, so it’s not the best option for those on a time crunch or those looking to save money.

Budget travelers hoping to travel to Rotterdam by car can book a carpool trip via Blablacar.

There is also a budget-friendly bus option available from Paris to Rotterdam . The ride will take about 11 hours, so it’s probably not worth it to stay for only one day if traveling by bus.

Flixbus tickets from Paris to Rotterdam start at around 25 EUR and can be booked online or on the app.

You can typically find cheap flights to The Netherlands from Paris as well, especially so when you book in advance. And getting to and from Eindhoven airport is fairly straightforward and easy to continue travel through the rest of the country.

What to do in Rotterdam:

• Enjoy the Rotterdam city skyline on a harbor boat tour
• Climb to the top of Euromast Lookout Tower for panoramic views of the city
• Visit Kinderdijk Windmill Village , a historic UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Spend the day at Rotterdam Zoo

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Rotterdam here 👇

8. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam is a popular day trip from Paris for good reason. This vibrant city is just a 2.5-hour train ride from Paris and is known for its canals, museums, and coffee shops.

Amsterdam is the perfect place to spend a day (or two!) if you’re looking to explore somewhere new.

And if you’re visiting Paris in February , you should definitely pop over to Amsterdam and check out the tulip season in all its glory.

Distance: 3h30 (train) · 265 miles from Paris center

How to get to Amsterdam from Paris:

The most common way to get from Paris to Amsterdam is by train. There are direct trains from Paris Gare du Nord station to Amsterdam Central station, and the journey takes about 3.5 hours.

Tickets for the train can be purchased in advance via Omio or Trainline .

If you’re driving, the journey will take about 5 hours. You will have to pay for international tolls and gasoline, as well as parking fees within Amsterdam.

Flixbus offers routes to Amsterdam and back to Paris multiple times per day starting at around 25 EUR. The journey by bus will take about 10 hours, so it’s probably not the best option for those on a time crunch.

No matter how you choose to get to Amsterdam from Paris, you’re sure to have a great time exploring this historic and vibrant city!

What to do in Amsterdam:

There is so much to see and do in Amsterdam that you could easily spend several days here.

• Explore the famous Rijksmuseum .
• Take a canal cruise or explore one of the many parks in the city
• Flock through hundreds of tulips at Keukenhof , the world’s largest flower garden
• Take a historic tour of the Anne Frank House
• See famous works of art at the Van Gogh museum
• Visit the Red Light District for a look at Amsterdam’s more risque side
• Take a cheese and wine-tasting boat cruise down the Amsterdam canals
• Learn how beer is made on a tour of the Heineken Brewery
• Munch on a variety of delicious foods at Foodhaal, an indoor food market

There is so much to see and do in Amsterdam that it can be hard to know where to start.

If you’re looking to pack a lot into one day, we recommend starting with a canal cruise. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history.

After that, explore the Red Light District, visit the Anne Frank House, and stroll through Vondelpark.

Be sure to leave time for some shopping and stops at cafes along the way!

You can browse over 100 hotels, hostels, and vacation stays in Amsterdam here 👇

These are just a few of the great countries that you can visit from Paris for the day. So, the next time you find yourself in the City of Light, be sure to venture out and explore some of these nearby countries.

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P.S. You can find  all my Paris travel articles, recommendations, & resources  here 👈

Related reads

– Best Brunch in Paris

– 17 Coolest Speakeasies and Hidden Bars in Paris

– 7 Reasons Why I HATE Living in Paris

– How to Blend in While Visiting Paris (Tips from a Local)

Hi, I’m Tiana – founder of and author here at Where Tiana Travels. I’m a 20-something with a love for all things travel, photography, and food. I have been living abroad for the past 5 years and solo traveling the globe in my free time. I created this blog to share my travel stories and inspire other women to go out and see the world. Read more about me here!

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The Best Places to Visit in France

By Monica Mendal

We may earn a commission if you buy something from any affiliate links on our site.

The best places to visit in France shouldn’t only be consigned to Paris and the French Riviera . Sure, there’s nothing quite like watching the Eiffel Tower twinkle at night or reveling in the glamour of summer on the Côte d’Azur, but there’s much more to France than the traditional tourist path. So, where to begin? From 10 major wine regions sweeping the country, to its variety of diverse coastlines stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, to a vast mountain range that shares its borders with Switzerland and Italy, there’s plenty to explore in France year-round.

If you’re crunched for time, there are tons of day trips from Paris reachable by train if you want a change of scenery without venturing too far. Can’t get enough of French cuisine? Then how about visiting the gastronomic capital of France. (Spoiler alert: it isn’t Paris.) And if the French Riviera is out of your price range come high summer, consider exploring the country’s alternative coastlines—of which there are many.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in France.

Take a Day Trip From Paris

The most popular day trip from Paris is a visit to King Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles , a mere 45-minute train ride from the city center via the RER C metro line. The palatial estate is spread across over 2,000 acres, composed of the palace, gardens, park, Estate of Trianon, and stables. In 2021, French hotel company Airelles opened Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle in the heart of the palace grounds, with regal interiors inspired by Marie Antoinette’s Versailles estate, Petit Trianon. Here, guests can live out their own royal fantasies while benefiting from exclusive access and tailor-made experiences on the property. While Mont-Saint Michel follows Versailles as the third most visited monument in France (the first being the Eiffel Tower), there are plenty of other places to visit in Normandy as a day trip. A 50-minute train from Paris will land you in Giverny, the small village where Claude Monet famously lived and produced his illustrious water lily series. Travelers can visit his former home and gardens, which are open from late March to early November. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a seaside escape from Paris, you don’t have to travel all the way to the south of France. Normandy’s Côte Fleurie, often referred to as the Parisian Riviera, is a popular resort destination among Parisians—particularly Deauville and Trouville, which are a two-hour train ride from Paris.

Stay here: If you decide to turn your day trip into an overnight, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle is the ultimate stay in Versailles, while Domaine de Primard , a bucolic stay situated in an 18th-century chateau, is located a mere 30 minutes from Claude Monet’s home.

Dine Your Way Through the Bouchons of Lyon

By Alexandra Macon

By Hannah Jackson

By Audrey Noble

Lyon is known as the undisputed gastronomic capital of France. Unsurprisingly, it was women who earned this title for the capital city of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, specifically the Mères Lyonnaises, or mothers of Lyon. Typically women of humble origins, they left their homes after the French Revolution in search of work, landing themselves in the homes of Lyon’s bourgeois families, where they used local, inexpensive ingredients to prepare simple and delicious meals; many believe it to be their impact that helped define and shape French cuisine as we know it today. When they were released from their jobs during the economic crisis of 1929, many of these women decided to open their own restaurants, known today as bouchons, referring to homey, casual eateries serving affordable and hearty fare. Today, Lyon is still littered with its historic bouchons —in fact, there are more restaurants per head than in any other in France. Try traditional Lyonnaise dishes like the quenelles at Cafe Comptoir Abel, chef Joseph Viola’s award-winning pâté en croûte at Daniel et Denise Créqui, the tête de veau at Café des Fédérations, and everything else at La Meunière, Brasserie Georges, and Chez Georges.

Stay here: Situated in a former convent, Villa Florentine is located in the heart of Old Lyon, a stone’s throw away from the best restaurants in the city. In the warmer months, take a dip in the rooftop pool featuring panoramic views of the city.

Ski the French Alps

France is blessed by such a surfeit of the world’s top ski resorts that it’s almost impossible to decide where to go. Les Trois Vallées is among the most popular ski regions in France, connecting multiple resorts through its interlinked valleys accessible using a single ski pass. Apart from skiing, the upper-crust love Courchevel for its abundance of five-star resorts (the most in France after Paris), magnum rosé-filled lobster lunches, and high-end luxury boutiques—some of which, like Moncler, are even located sur piste. If it’s refined subtly you’re going for in Les Trois Vallées, Meribel is the ideal option not only for its optimal location and famous slopes, like La Face, which was created for the 1992 Winter Olympics, but for its friendly-friendly atmosphere and bounty of ski-in ski-out chalets and hotels, including the beloved Hôtel Le Coucou , helmed by the same owners as Provence’s Crillon Le Brave and Paris’s buzzy new Le Grand Mazarin. Head to Chamonix at the base of Mont Blanc, often primed with fresh powder, to tick skiing the world’s longest ski run, the Vallée Blanche, off your bucket list. For a less advanced resort (or if it’s not the skiing alone that entices you), the nearby Megève will feed your appetite for a romantic sojourn in a charming alpine village with cobbled streets littered with high-end restaurants and chic stays. Val d’Isère is quickly becoming the French Alps’ latest hot spot with a flurry of buzzy openings, from Airelles Val d’Isère and the upcoming Experimental Chalet Val d’Isère signaling a new awakening.

Stay here: The Pierre Yovanovitch-designed stay Hôtel Le Coucou is a stylish ski-in ski-out hotel with excellent dining options, from a traditional Savoyard restaurant to its beloved Beefbar. Airelles Val d’Isère is another ski-in ski-out hotel, host to its own assortment of critically acclaimed dining establishments, from Loulou to Nobu Matsuhisa’s Matsuhisa. The historic Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or , recently acquired by the hotel group behind Mallorca’s Cap Rocat and Christian Louboutin’s hotel in Melides, Portugal, is a romantic alpine retreat with just 18 rooms and three adjoining chalets and home to La Chocolaterie, Megève village’s beloved social hub.

Explore the Central and Northern Wine Regions

You can find wine production in nearly every corner of France, but it’s always worth visiting the regions located within close proximity to Paris—from Champagne and Alsace in the north, to Loire Valley and Burgundy in central France. In Champagne, Reims and Épernay would be the best base to explore the five regions. If you’re inclined to visit one of the big names, Ruinart in Reims offers the most organized experiences, from cellar tours to tastings to custom-designed brunch, lunch, or dinner experiences on-site. For a more intimate experience near Épernay, head to the family estate of Billecart-Salmon , where visitors are made to feel like they’re a part of the family with tastings held in the estate’s dining room. Ahead of the Olympics, Uber will also be introducing a new travel product in the champagne region, which will be announced next month. Much like its wines, the Loire Valley provides the most variety. With the Loire Valley’s vast wine regions spanning the Muscadet region on the western coast, all the way to the Sancerre region in the central north, there’s more to enjoy here than just wine. From charming medieval villages, to its lush ethereal gardens—the grounds of the Château de Villandry are among the most famous—to fairytale castles, like the iconic Château de Chambord, Loire Valley maintains the perfect balance for a well-rounded holiday in wine country. It’s also worth exploring Burgundy, with a jaunt in its capital city Dijon, known for its mustard, or explore the German and Swiss-bordered Alsace region, with visits to both its capital city of Strasbourg and the charming old town of Colmar.

Stay here : In the Loire Valley, you can’t go wrong with a pastoral stay at the iconic Les Sources de Cheverny or if you prefer something less traditional, check out Château de la Haute Borde , known for its seasonal artist residencies. For an immersive stay in Champagne, the beautiful 12-room Château de Sacy sits in a charming village in the heart of the vineyards.

Sip Your Way Through Bordeaux

While the lesser-known wine regions in the south of France, such as the Rhône Valley and the Languedoc, are certainly not to be missed by wine aficionados, your introduction to French wine should undoubtedly begin with Bordeaux. Spend a night or two in the city of Bordeaux itself before heading to the countryside, and take a stroll through the vibrant Chartrons neighborhood or enjoy dinner at Au Bistrot. The type of experience you’ll have in Bordeaux’s wine country is characterized by which side of the Dordogne River you’re on. The right bank, which you can read about here , is distinguished by its shorter distances, hilly terrain, and famous medieval villages, while the left bank is formed by the Médoc, land that stretches all the way from the city of Bordeaux to the coast. The Médoc is famous for its palatial wine estates—many of which are open by appointment for tours and tastings. These wine castles, as they’re appropriately monikered, not only produce some of the finest wines in France, but are destinations in themselves—from some of the oldest and most historic, like Chateau d’Arsac and Château Livran , to the women-owned Château Larrivaux , which has been run by women of the same family since 1580. Among the many reasons to visit the Médoc wine region is due, in part, to its proximity to the coast. After a week of wine tastings, spend a few days on the sandy beaches of Soulac-sur-Mer, a timeless seaside village whose simplicity and belle époque nostalgia lend it a feeling of laid-back glamour.

Stay here: On Bordeaux’s left bank, stay at Maison d’Estournel , a refined country house set on the vineyards of its adjoining wine estate Cos d’Estournel . On the right bank, Logis de la Cadène puts you right at the center of the iconic Saint-Émilion wine village, and its Michelin-starred restaurant is among the most popular in the region.

Take a Scenic Drive Through Provence

Plan some tastings ahead of your (ideally, late spring or early summer) visit to Provence at Château La Mascaronne or Château Gassier —after all, Provence is the land of rosé. When your rosé-tinted glasses have worn off, however, it’s time to hit the road, and there’s no better way to discover Provence’s surfeit of charming hilltop villages set against the backdrop of its sweeping fields of lavender, vines, and sunflower fields, than from a vintage car with the top down. Rent a car with Provence Classics , beginning your road trip in the Luberon, where you can pick up some local market produce and souvenirs from the hilltop village of Gordes, then drive past the lavender fields at Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque on your way to stroll through the red cliffside village of Roussillon. From there, begin your journey to Avignon, stopping through Provence’s antique capital, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, for some antique shopping at notable shops, like 50 Cinquante and Bernard Durand . Arriving at Avignon, visit the Palais des Papes and the Jardin des Domes or meander through the city’s labyrinth of cafés and shops, before following the Van Gogh route from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Arles. For a truly enchanting conclusion to your road trip, head 20 minutes south of Arles for a journey into the wilds: the Camargue, western Europe’s largest delta, featuring a wild landscape of lagoons, reeds, and salt marshes—a place where wild horses roam free and a colony of pink flamingos comes to nest in the warmer months. No, it’s not the rosé-tinted glasses you’re wearing—this place is real .

Stay here: The elegant La Bastide de Gordes will place you right in the center of the iconic hilltop village. You can alternatively opt for a stay at the charming La Bastide de Mourre nearby or in its sister property Domaine de Chalamon in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. For an ultra-luxurious and romantic retreat, book a room at Crillon le Brave , located a short distance from the best antique shops in the region. In June, the much-anticipated Les Bains Gardians will open in the heart of Camargue National Park.

Hike the Calanques

After exploring the countryside of Provence, it’s time to hit the seaside. With its influx of trending hotel and restaurant openings, it’s no secret that the weird and wild Marseille has become a hotbed for the creative class in recent years. But before stylish crowds descended on the vibrant port city, its wild limestone cliffside extending between Marseille and Cassis, known as the Calanques, had always been its natural draw. The Calanques National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with many of its trails ending at secret coves and white sand beaches that are only reachable by foot or sea, like Calanque of Port-Miou, Calanque of Port-Pin, and Calanque of En-Vau. If you prefer to explore the calanques by sea, book a public or private charter aboard Le Don du Vent for a day of sailing and swimming.

Stay here: Optimally situated on a rocky shore in the fishing village of Les Goudes, Tuba Club is the perfect place to stay given it’s located at the gateway to the Calanques National Park. Book a room at the 5-star Hôtel Les Roches Blanches in the neighboring Cassis if you’re looking for a more elegant stay outside of the frenetic city center of Marseille.

Oyster Tasting in the Bay of Arcachon

Head southwest for a week of oyster tastings on the Bay of Arcachon. Base yourself in the chic seaside village of Cap Ferret, the southern tip of the Lege-Cap-Ferret peninsula, known as the oyster capital of France. A scenic seaside town characterized by its quaint fisherman villages and oyster farms, Cap Ferret has long been a chic holiday hamlet and a best-kept secret among the French for its abundance of beautiful beaches and al fresco seafood restaurants. Flanked by the Atlantic beaches primed for surf and the quieter beaches on the bay, lined with oyster shacks and framed by the famed Dune Du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, Cap Ferret is a unique summer destination for travelers seeking a more laid back alternative to the French Riviera. Don’t forget to grab a bike and explore the many picturesque fishing villages located deeper in the peninsula, from Le Canon to l’Herbe, or book a boat day with Des Hommes et Des Mers to explore it all by sea.

Stay here: Last summer the oldest hotel on the peninsula dating back to the 1970s, Hôtel des Dunes re-opened as a cool surf lodge of sorts, with each of its 13 rooms designed in the spirit of Cap Ferret’s oyster shacks, and located just across the street from Cap Ferret’s best surf beach. If you prefer to stay in Arcachon, the Philippe Starck-designed La Co(o)rniche is a five-star stay in the upmarket Pyla-Sur-Mer neighborhood, boasting panoramic views of the Dune du Pilat from its lively restaurant bar.

Surf the French Basque

Begin your road trip in the French Basque Country’s gateway city, Bayonne, where you can scoop up some of the famous Bayonne cured ham and chocolate before making your way to the coast. It’s no secret to surf enthusiasts everywhere that France’s southwest is world-renowned for its epic surf breaks—so much so that it’s been nicknamed the “French California.” Many of the best surf beaches can be found in the French Basque’s beloved seaside towns, like Biarritz , which has also experienced an advent of new hotels and restaurants as of late, making it an ideal base for your Basque holiday. In Biarritz, you’ll find beginner beaches, like Côte des Basques or La Grande Plage, and Le Miramar for more advanced surfers. Another charming and lesser-known town nearby is Guethary, a tiny village with a surplus of great local restaurants and sceney sunset bars for post-surf fun. Among the best surf beaches in Guethary include the reef break of Parlementia, which shares its border with Bidart, another beloved surf town, and the more isolated beach of Alcyons. Intermediate surfers can also head to the neighboring town of Saint Jean de Luz to ride out one of the French Basque’s rare point breaks at Lafitenia beach.

Stay here: Regina Experimental Biarritz opened just last summer and is optimally located across the street from La Grande Plage.

Scenic Swims in Corsica

With its close proximity to Italy, located just 10 nautical miles from beautiful Sardinia, international travelers often overlook Corsica altogether when considering their options for a summer holiday in France. Their oversight leaves the island spared from crowds—save for the French families who return each summer to bask in their unspoiled paradise on the Med. From natural pools to secret coves to white sand beaches, Corsica is known for its pristine turquoise coastline. Tourists tend to flock to the southern part of the island, famous for its white sand beaches, like Palombaggia (the first tobacco-free beach on Corsica), Campomoro, Cupabia, and Roccapina, as well as its scenic bays, such as Cala di Conca and Fazzio. As southern Corsica is more built up with tourist stays, the northern beaches remain slightly more wild and untouched; among the best beaches in northern Corsica include Ostriconi, Lotu, Saleccia, and Bodri. But Corsica’s pristine swimming spots aren’t consigned to the island’s dazzling coastline—many of the island’s best swims can be found inland, in the natural pools concealed among the island’s many hiking trails and cultural sites, from les Piscines naturelles de Cavu to the Vallée du Fango and Ponte Vecchiu, and those fed by waterfalls like Polischellu and Aïtone.

Stay here: Nestled on the Cap Corse peninsula in the northeast corner of the island, Hôtel Misincu is a chic eco-luxury retreat on a 54-acre estate with a restaurant, spa, and pool. In the south, stay at the beloved family-run U Capu Biancu , a waterfront property overlooking the bay of Sant’ Amanza.

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8 fabulous train journeys from Paris this year

Looking to get away from it all? Here are the best train journeys to make at least once from Paris. Enough to see the country and enjoy the varied landscapes of France.

Travelling around France by train? Now that’s a good idea! In just a few hours, you can find yourself in front of some incredible scenery and be totally disoriented. Here’s a quick roundup of the train trips you can take this year.

Boulogne-sur-Mer

This pretty seaside town is only 2 h 30 from Paris , no less. The old town is absolutely magnificent, as is the basilica, with the largest crypt in France. Take a tour of the ramparts , see one of Europe’s largest aquariums, and enjoy a breath of fresh air . For an invigorating weekend!

🚆 Gare du Nord station, approx. 2 h 30

Known for its light, creamy mousse, but also for its majestic château , Chantilly is the place to be 27 minutes from Paris . Its château and estate, which  are among the most beautiful in France , are a must-see at least once in your life. A 30-minute bus ride away is Senlis, a magnificent medieval village to explore, for a country stroll over an extended weekend!

🚆 Gare du Nord station, about 30 minutes

The little Venice of the North is quite simply one of Alsace’s jewels. The colorful houses are a sight to behold all year round, as is its Christmas market , which is  certainly one of the most beautiful in France. Near Colmar lies Eguisheim , one of France’s most beautiful villages, just 2 hours from Paris. Let’s go !

🚆 East Station, approx. 2 h 30

Provins , a medieval town in the Seine-et-Marne region , is also a great destination to program this year! We go there for its dungeons, its ramparts, its beautiful half-timbered houses and its crazy old charm . .. A real plunge back in time!

🚆 Paris-Est train station approx. 1 h 25

Mers-les-Bains

This pretty seaside resort with its Belle Époque-style houses is well worth a detour for an iodized and energetic stroll . A chance to stretch your legs in sublime natural surroundings, and take some time for yourself.

🚆 Gare du Nord, about 3h30

Rambouillet

Once the domain of kings, Rambouillet offers many beautiful walks around the château. The sheepfold is great for an educational outing with the kids, and the forest is as beautiful as it is soothing . For a day of pure bliss!

🚆 Montparnasse train station, about 35 minutes

Just 100 km from Paris, Giverny is a romantic , bucolic destination that must be visited at least once in a lifetime. Here you can visit the home of Claude Monet , whose garden inspired his most beautiful works , and take a stroll to admire the blossoming gardens of the neighboring houses in spring. A charming city  to see in any season to take full eyes!

🚆 Gare Saint-Lazare, about 1 h 30

Mont Saint-Michel

Did you know that Mont Saint-Michel was the first UNESCO World Heritage Site? This pure marvel should be seen at least once in your life, so unique is it. The high tides, the extraordinary abbey and the enchanting view… A jewel.

🚆 Gare Montparnasse approx. 4 h 33 with connecting train

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The 12 best day trips from European cities

Posted: March 15, 2024 | Last updated: March 15, 2024

The best part of Europe is how close together everything is, which makes day trips very doable. Here are 12 amazing recommendations from the most popular European cities.

From Paris: Versailles Palace & Grounds

The classic Paris day trip, a journey out to the former stronghold of the French monarchy won’t disappoint. Make sure to book a time slot in advance to avoid lines at the palace. I recommend going early before the crowds become unbearable. After marveling at the interior, allow some time to wander the expansive grounds and have a picnic along the lake on a nice day.

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From Paris: Fontainebleau

Another classic day trip from Paris, Fontainebleau is often overlooked for the more popular Versailles. However, it can be a better alternative due to less popularity, which means fewer crowds. Additionally, Fontainebleau is arguably more impressive as it wasn’t ransacked during the Revolution; thus, more artifacts are available to view.

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From Amsterdam: Tulip Fields

Amsterdam is famous for nightlife and culture, but don’t forget how the rest of the country comes alive in the spring. There are numerous colorful fields, just a train and bike ride away from the capital. Remember to go in the morning before the lines pile up!

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From London: Windsor Castle

London’s closest castle (after Buckingham Palace, of course) is a quick train ride away from the capital. Take a tour, view the royal artifacts, enjoy the gardens, and explore the surrounding town — a perfect escape from the Big Smoke of the city.

From Dublin: Cliffs of Moher

Admittedly a bit far as a day trip from Dublin, but if you can swing it, you won’t regret the decision. The straight-down bright green cliffs are a great viewpoint for Galway Bay and the Aran Islands. You’ll get plenty of exercise on the walk to make the long drive worth it!

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From Brussels: Bruges

Many prefer this adorable Medieval town to Belgium’s capital, Brussels. The quaint cobblestone streets, college-town feel, and an ambiance on even the rainiest day make it a wonderful place to spend some time. Wander a beer museum, visit a tasting room, and enjoy a stroll along the canal.

From Munich: the Bavarian Alps

The Bavarian Alps are unlike any other part of Germany and make a great day trip from Munich. You can take a gondola up Germany’s highest point, the Zugspitze, hike or ski the trails, or just enjoy lake views. Bonus — don’t forget to visit the Neuschwanstein Castle on the way back to the city. 

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From Budapest: Lake Balaton

Hungary’s main lake is located about an hour and a half from Budapest. You can drive yourself for a day of relaxation or take a tour. But know these typically last all day, upwards of eight hours. You can wander the town or just tan at the beach. 

From Athens: Delphi

This UNESCO World Heritage site is just a couple hours from the Greek capital. It’s a must-visit if you’re a history or archeology buff. In ancient times, the town was known as the home of the Oracle, Delphi, and a naval stronghold. These days, it houses some of the most impressive ruins in the country.

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From Sofia: Seven Rila Lakes

Glacial lakes might not be what typically comes to mind when you think of Bulgaria, but these natural wonders are just a couple of hours from the capital. Set amongst the Rila Mountains, they make a perfect nature escape for a day of hiking or just cooling off far from the city.

From Malaga: Ronda

Ronda is a wonderful respite to nearby Malaga. Split by the El Tajo Gorge, the town's dramatic appearance is just one piece of its appeal. Walk the Puente Nuevo, the “New Bridge," and others that connect the two sides of the town. Once you’ve had enough exercise, visit the historic bullring or go wine tasting in the surrounding hillside.

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From Prague: Cesky Krumlov

Located just a couple of hours from Prague, this charming town is like a mini version of the capital city, where everything is much more walkable. The crown jewel however is the castle and surrounding grounds, which are very well preserved.

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Watch CBS News

Eclipse cloud cover forecasts and maps show where skies will clear up for April 8's celestial show

By Eric Henderson

April 6, 2024 / 8:01 AM EDT / CBS News

The  April 8 total solar eclipse  is now mere days away, and many Americans are packing their bags and setting out for the path of totality. While historical data suggests daunting odds of experiencing the eclipse under totally clear skies at this time of year, meteorologists now feel increasingly confident in models that show some parts of the country looking golden. Other parts of the country, though, may end up in a cloudy bust.

General cloud cover outlook for the U.S.

North America is not just in the middle of the volatility of changing seasons at this time of year, we're also currently in an El Niño pattern . That typically causes an increase in clouds and rain, but, for some reason, hasn't actually done that as much this time around, meteorologists say.

One major difference from the 2017 eclipse that cut across the continent is that the 2024 eclipse's path width will be notably wider,  according to NASA . That's because the moon will technically be closer to Earth than it was last time.

The path of totality — where the moon will completely block out the sun — is roughly 150 miles wide, stretching about 2,500 miles from Texas to northeastern Maine. 

Historical data indicates that the further south you are along the path of totality, the better chance you would normally have to not experience clouds. Unfortunately, the patterns that are setting up now don't necessarily match that expectation, which may leave those who put in the research to scope out the best locations suddenly in the lurch.

Cloud cover forecast for Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas

Historically, data suggests the best odds for not seeing clouds, from a climate perspective, can be found in areas to the south, which are already experiencing the changes of spring. But volatility is the keynote.

Jeff Ray , chief meteorologist for CBS Texas, said that Texas sees a sunny or mostly sunny April day only about one-quarter of the time, on average. In fact, April is traditionally the third-stormiest month of the year in Texas. 

Though the historical odds would still indicate that the area would normally be considered the best destination, Ray says there's a significant possibility that throngs will find themselves disappointed.

Jeff Ray's current forecast:

"The DFW area is the largest city in the path of totality, receiving the lion's share of out-of-town visitors and family to observe this once-in-a-lifetime event. The weather is shaping up to possibly disappoint the millions of potential viewers. We have suspected over the last week that at the very minimum, there would be in place a thin veil of high clouds overhead during most of the day on Monday. We are hoping the rain and strong storms forecasted for the day will hold off to later in the afternoon. We still believe that is the case. However, this rain event is approaching from the south. It rides in on moisture-laden air from a Gulf of Mexico that is at record warm temperatures (climate change to thank), this should bring in a rather thick deck of mid-to-low clouds. When those clouds get into the path zone is the question. Right now it's not looking good. Timing is everything, even down to a few hours."

Cloud cover forecast for Missouri, southern Illinois and Indiana

So if Texas, Oklahoma and Arkansas end up being among the less desirable places to go, what about just a little bit further north?

It's an area that will likely be familiar for some hardcore eclipse chasers. A diamond-shaped section of land centered around Carbondale, Illinois was along the path of totality in 2017, and will be again on April 8.

Those in southeastern Missouri will find historical odds for cloud-free viewing more or less matching the odds in Arkansas, and those in the Chicago metro area should find their best bet is to head toward the southern part of Illinois, according to  Albert Ramon , chief meteorologist for CBS Chicago.

Ramon says April 8 typically brings cloud cover chances ranging from 60% to 80% across Chicago and its surrounding suburbs, and similar chances in Indianapolis. But Ramon says this Monday could be different.

Albert Ramon's current forecast:

"One of the best spots in the country to view the eclipse will be in Carbondale! Not only because of totality, but because of the weather. We're now looking for a good chance of a mostly sunny sky on Monday afternoon with temps in the low to mid 70s. Chicago is looking better, too, for Monday, mainly dry and more of a partly cloudy sky, and highs warmer in the mid 60s. For Indianapolis, expect partly to mostly sunny sky and highs in the low 70s."

Cloud cover forecast for the Great Lakes and Pennsylvania

The Great Lakes portion of totality's path includes large sections of Ohio, parts of Ontario south of Toronto, the Niagara Falls area, and the northwestern corner of Pennsylvania. CBS Pittsburgh meteorologist Ray Petelin  said he's keeping an eye on the Great Lakes when making his final call for that part of the country.

Petelin said lake-effect clouds are his chief concern. Erie, Pennsylvania, usually only gets about six clear days during the entire month of April, for example.

Petelin says the best hopes would be pinned on the possibility of southerly breezes or warmer-than-average temperatures. And his latest models have him cautiously optimistic.

Ray Petelin's current forecast:

"A few showers look to be around the region, with the slightly better shot to see some hit or miss rain near Lake Erie. That said, in Erie the rain looks to be spotty with breaks in the clouds to pull off some views of the total eclipse. There looks to be a bit more cloud cover as you head westward toward Cleveland with passing rain showers. I am being hopeful that you will get some glimpses there as well. Down in Pittsburgh, were there is the potential for the partial eclipse of 97% , the skies are trending to be a bit brighter with an isolated rain chance."

Cloud cover forecast for New England

The last stop for totality in the U.S. will be when the path moves from New York to New England. Traditionally, the New England area would face possibly the stiffest odds in the country for catching clear skies on April 8, based on historical patterns. The data says you'd be more likely to see clouds almost anywhere in these states than not.

"If you have been following along over the last few weeks , you likely heard that, climatologically speaking, New England had the lowest odds of having clear skies on the big day. This should come as no surprise to anyone native New Englander. April can be, well, rough in these parts," said  Terry Eliasen , executive weather producer for CBS Boston.

However, there is a silver lining, both metaphorically and quite visually: Eliasen says the current forecast for the area looks to buck the odds and offer possibly the country's clearest view of the solar display.

Terry Eliasen's current forecast:

"Monday may just be the nicest day in the entire first two weeks of April! It looks like luck will be on our side. Most of the region should be almost completely clear. Some high clouds may blur the show a bit in western-most New England (the Berkshires up through Vermont). Therefore, as of right now, if you have the ability to go anywhere in New England, the safest bet would be northern Maine (farthest away from any potential cloud cover). While the whole eclipse (partial to full to end) lasts a few hours, totality (the moment on truth) only lasts between 3-4 minutes. And, it is nearly happening at the same time across our entire area. So, make sure to plan your day around those few minutes, especially if you are in the path of totality."

Looking ahead to 2045

Sometimes the best-laid plans fall by the wayside, and if you're in an area where clouds end up ruining your view of the total solar eclipse, you'll have to wait quite a while for the next U.S. viewing opportunity. 

The next chance for a cross-national eclipse will arrive  in August 2045 , when a line of totality will march from northern California to Miami Beach.

One more reminder, whether you're in the path of totality or taking in the partial eclipse from somewhere else in America: Be sure to wear special eclipse glasses to protect your eyes.

Eric Henderson is Managing Editor, Midwest for CBSNews.com. He has won three Emmy Awards, an Eric Sevareid Award and two Edward R. Murrow Awards.

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4 Days in Paris: Locals Share How Best to Experience the City of Light

Linger in historic public squares or opulent mansions, and indulge in multicourse meals or spas fit for royalty during a long weekend in the city..

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Spend part of your long weekend in Paris indulging in some of the city’s best cafes, like Breizh Cafe.

Photo By Romain Buisson

Whether it’s the haute couture, the Michelin-starred meals, the soaring Haussmanian architecture, or the fascinating history—you could move to Paris and still be surprised and delighted by all it has to offer. I know: I did. I called it home for nearly 10 years and throughout that time fielded inquiries left and right to the tune of “Where should I stay?” and “What should we eat?” from friends, their mother’s accountant, or their friend’s sister’s boss.

The advice I always start with? Let Paris come to you. In other words: Choose your own adventure. Don’t force yourself to wait in line at the Louvre if you’re not into Renaissance art. Don’t plan your day around the hottest table in town if the word “gastronomy” means nothing to you. (Though, if you’re going to broaden your horizons, this is the place to do it .)

With 20 arrondissements, over 400 parks and gardens, more than 2,000 museums and monuments, and a sprawling metro system connecting it all, there’s truly something for everyone in this storied city—whether that’s Monet’s water lilies at the Musée d’Orsay or Shepard Fairey’s mural behind the Pompidou.

If you’re into tours, plan around availability then leave room for spontaneity, disco naps, and extra eclairs. This four-day itinerary is purposely laid out over weekdays and the weekend to accommodate the city’s notoriously fussy opening and closing schedules. Profitez-bien —enjoy!

Thursday: Neighborhood strolls, craft coffee, and sweets

Shake off your jet lag with a mini caffeine and croissant crawl. First, grab a coffee from the closest Noir , a newer chain in the city whose pink-forward cafés are proliferating faster than it takes to froth a cappuccino—and that’s a good thing. (The coffee is top-quality and the atmosphere feels fresh.) Then, head for the Canal Saint-Martin where some of the best bakeries frame this bohemian enclave of the 10th arrondissement: Get a creamy €1 choux pastry from Mamiche , a seasonal-flavored pinwheel from Du Pain et Des Idées, or something more exotic from Liberté .

Cross through Place de la République, a large square featuring a central monument of Marianne (France’s post-Revolution personification) and the city’s hub for protests, parades, and other public events, for the Upper Marais. Weekdays are less crowded than weekends for shopping for French-designed brands such as Veja (vegan sneakers), Maison Labiche (embroidered hoodies), and Oh My Cream! (serums, oils, and gels—oh my!).

Next, stop into the Picasso Museum , which is inside a former hôtel particulier , or mansion, and features some 5,000 pieces by the Spanish painter who spent 60 years in France. That may sound like a lot of art to view before you’ve unpacked or had a shower, but since the space is quite digestible it’s a perfect first foray into culture.

By now, you’re surely ready for a “petite pause” or a snack, which the French call “goûter.” This generally occurs around 4 p.m. when kids get out school. If the weather is nice, find the Places des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris, and sit in the sun on the grass or snag one of the benches to read or people-watch. You have a few nearby options depending on whether you want savory or sweet, grab-and-go or sit-down: I’m partial to the chou farci (stuffed cabbage) pita sandwich at Miznon a bit further west, which to be fair is more of a meal. But if you’re still after sweets and want that quintessential French café experience, head to Carette. You’ll likely have to wait for a seat outside, but inside is just as alluring—and where all the locals sit, according to Jane Bertch, owner of La Cuisine Paris cooking school and author of the forthcoming memoir The French Ingredient . “Try the Chausson aux Pommes with its unique baguette shape,” she suggests.

Hôtel de la Marine is a Versailles-like experience without having to take the RER or an Uber all the way to the former palace.

Andrei Antipov/Shutterstock

Friday: A day of mansions, passages, and fine dining

Skip the urge to sleep in, and let your first full day begin with a self-guided tour of Hôtel de la Marine . (Yes, another “hotel” that’s not a hotel.) Thanks to cool GPS-enabled headphones, you can DIY through room after room of 18th-century French opulence. (Originally it was the home of the Garde-Meuble, the office that managed all royal properties—including Versailles—and Marie Antoinette had an apartment here when visiting the capital.)

From here, you’re positioned well for a walk through the Tuileries Garden up to the Louvre. You could go into the massive structure, originally built in the late 12th century as a fortress, to say “Bonjour” to Mesdames Mona and de Milo. But you’ll wait in line for ages if you didn’t prebook tickets. (Better yet: Go on a private tour with a company like Context Travel .) Maybe seeing I.M. Pei’s pyramid outside is enough, though, and you pop over to the less-crowded Palais-Royale instead. The covered arcades are lined with sweet shops, cafés, and restaurants, and the manicured gardens are full of roses in spring and summer.

For lunch, try the popular Le Nemours or the less-known Cafe Mar’Co. Both are vibe-first recommendations that offer more of a see-and-be-seen meal (as opposed to high-class cuisine) most beloved by fashion folk. I personally prefer a long, leisurely lunch that highlights seasonal, local ingredients courtesy of ever-changing tasting menus, and a midday meal is ideal for diving into one at a more digestible price than at dinner. You’ll have to commit to at least three hours and book ahead, but impressive, centrally located lunch options for modern takes on French food include Granite , Substance , and the recently restored La Tour d’Argent .

Take your food coma for a walk through some of the city’s covered, 19th-century passages, originally constructed to shelter the affluent during their walks on rainy days. “They’re full of curiosities,” says Maelle Tardif, concierge of Maison Proust , a boutique hotel in the Marias designed like the salons of the Belle Époque. “These historical gems are full of tea rooms and antique shops for an assured journey back in time,” she says. “Gallerie de Vivienne and Passage de Panoroma have boutiques for collectors of old books and postcards.”

The Musée de Montmartre was founded in 1960.

Vlasyuk Inna/Shutterstock

Saturday: Movie-like meandering and pharmacy shopping

Today, you’ll tackle two quintessential Paris neighborhoods, both of which appeared in popular films. First up? Amelie’s Paris in Montmartre. This hilly quarter, which locals call “the butte,” will eventually lead you to the highest point in the city. Get lost in the twists and turns of the area’s crooked cobblestone streets where you may run into a mini vineyard, one of two remaining windmills, and the most charming, under-appreciated museum in Paris: the Musée de Montmartre . Area local and owner of gallery-tour company the Seen , Alexandra Weinress, says, “It’s tucked away from the tourist masses that tend to flock to the Sacré Coeur and focuses on the history of the neighborhood as the capital of bohemian life in Paris and artists like Renoir who lived there. The gardens are beautiful, too, and offer a welcome respite from the bustling city.”

Slowly wind your way down, perhaps pausing at the Hôtel Rouchechoart on the boulevard for a rooftop cocktail served with the best 360-degree views of the capital. Now, hop on line 12 to cross the river underground into the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés. This is Woody Allen’s Paris, and where much of his 2011 film Midnight in Paris takes place. Then visit the Panthéon where the likes of Victor Hugo and Marie Curie are buried. (From April through October, climb the 206 steps to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city.)

No visit to Paris would be complete without popping into one of its many pharmacies, and nearby on Rue du Four is the Holy Grail for French remedies, toiletries, and more: Citypharma . “You can’t go to Paris and not stock up on skincare essentials!” says Melanie Masarin, founder of the nonalcoholic aperitif Ghia , which just made its debut in the Marais concept shop Merci . “They carry every brand, often at great discounts. The Skinceuticals Vitamin C and all the products from Avene are so much more affordable there. It’s like the Ikea of French pharmacies!”

For dinner, book a table at Les Arlots in the 10th arrondissement for “the most gourmand and sincere food in Paris,” says Julien Pham, restaurateur and owner of Phamily First agency. He also recommends La Chope des Artistes restaurant and Chop Chop bar in the ninth. “It’s where young creatives and the talented people of Paris gather every night,” he says.

Some vendors peel the likes of clementines and slice up mangoes to be tasted, while others sell food to be eaten on-site, such as oysters or hot crêpes filled with nutella or comté cheese.

Photo By lembi/Shutterstock

Sunday: A local market, relaxing like royalty, and sipping in style

For your final full day, start with a walk through the market at the foot of the Bastille monument in the 11th arrondissement. Each area has a “marché” that’s open on specific days of the week, but Sundays at the Marché Bastille really is “its own ecosystem,” says Bertch. The earlier you arrive the better for interactions with sellers. “You get a sense of these not just being a place to buy produce, but they are the heart of each neighborhood,” she says. Take in the sights and sounds, she urges, and sample, sample, sample.

Many shops and restaurants are closed on Sundays, so it’s a great opportunity to take a break yourself by splurging on self-care at the Ritz Club and Spa in Place Vendôme. Bring a book, maybe some headphones, and stay awhile: Whether or not you get a treatment, there’s also a gym, saunas and steam rooms, and an indoor pool surrounded by plush electric loungers from which you can order drinks and snacks.

Don’t overload it in heaven, though. Instead, shower for a final nuit à Paris cocktail at the Rosewood Hôtel de Crillion’s Les Ambassadeurs . This dark and sultry high-ceilinged salon is open to guests and nonguests. With its frescoes, gilded moldings, and chandeliers of chains, it’s the swankiest spot for a tipple in town. Finally, make your way to the Israeli restaurant Kapara for a late dinner. The former and beloved Balagan, which reopened in November 2023 under a new name, retains its original vibe by serving a veritable feast in a party-like atmosphere thanks to the new female chef whose Iraqi and Moroccan heritage adds a new level of spice to match the free shots sent around the room.

Luxury hotel Le Grand Mazarin is located in the Marais district.

Where to stay

Paris has no shortage of excellent hotels . Two of my personal favorites are Le Grand Mazarin and HOY, the former for its whimsical, art-driven decor including an underground pool and inner courtyard that are covered in frescoes and the latter if you’re looking for a dose of wellness with your sightseeing. (There’s an on-site yoga studio and a terrific vegan restaurant.)

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The Ten Best Things to Do in Paris

The sheer number of world-class museums, stunning monuments, and awe-inspiring viewpoints in the City of Light can be overwhelming for any visitor. Here are our top picks for the ten best things to do in Paris.

Visit The Thinker in Musée Rodin

Musée Rodin is in the former residence of the sculptor. In addition to Rodin’s own sculptures and studies, the museum also exhibits the work of Camille Claudel, Rodin’s mistress and model. In the garden there are several famous statues, including Le Penseur ( The Thinker ). The charming museum and the beautiful garden can be visited separately.

77 Rue de Varenne, 7th arr., www.musee-rodin.fr , Tue-Sun 10am-6:30pm, €13, Metro Varenne or Invalides

Admire the enormous clock in Musée d’Orsay

Musée d’Orsay is housed in a 19th-century train station that was renovated in 1986 and made into a museum. In the grand hall, the station’s enormous clock still hangs. Sculptures line the wide balconies, and in the exhibit halls you’ll find a collection of Impressionist paintings. In addition to the museum café, the museum also has two great restaurants worth trying, which are open only to museum visitors.

1 Rue de la Légion d’Honneur, 7th arr., www.musee-orsay.fr , Tue-Wed & Fri-Sun 9:30am-6pm, Thu 9:30am-9:45pm, €16, courtyard free, Metros Solférino, Assemblée Nationale, Concorde, or Tuileries

In Le Grand Palais there are often beautiful exhibitions

Le Grand Palais was built for the 1900 World’s Fair, together with Le Petit Palais and the Pont Alexandre III. It is made of concrete, steel, and glass. The enormous glass ceiling is particularly impressive. Inside the building you’ll find, among other things, temporary exhibitions (Galeries Nationales du Grand Palais) and a science museum (Palais de la Découverte).

3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower, 8th arr., www.grandpalais.fr , see website for opening hours and prices, Metro Champs-Élysées Clémenceau or Franklin Roosevelt

Check out impressive photo exhibits in Le Bal

In the 1920s there was a dancehall where today you’ll find Le Bal —one of the hottest spots in the neighborhood. The venue has an exhibition space where modern photographers and video artists display their work, and there is a store with unique art books. On weekends, the modern café serves English-style brunch.

6 Impasse de la Défense, 18th arr., www.le-bal.fr , tel. 01 44707550, Wed noon-8pm, Thurs-Sun noon-7pm, €7, Metro Place de Clichy

Wander around the famous Musée du Louvre

The building that is home to the Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre) has served many purposes—from medieval fortress to imperial palace. In 1793 Napoleon decided to open the palace to the public, and the Louvre has since become the richest, most visited museum in the world. There is so much to see that, even if you were to just fleetingly glance at all the art, it would still take a full day or two. Tip: avoid the lines and buy your tickets online.

34-36 Quai du Louvre, 1st arr., www.louvre.fr , Mon & Wed-Sun 9am-6pm, €17, Metro Palais Royal-Musée du Louvre

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Admire the beautiful fondation louis vuitton.

In the middle of the Bois de Boulogne you’ll find the museum Fondation Louis Vuitton , which opened in 2015. The futuristic building, which was designed by Frank Gehry, makes it worth a visit. Inside, you’ll find a permanent collection as well as temporary exhibits of modern and contemporary art. Occasionally there are classical concerts. Come to the restaurant Le Frank for an outstanding lunch and, on Wednesday and Thursday evenings, for dinner (reservations required).

8 Avenue du Mahatma Gandhi, 16th arr., www.fondationlouisvuitton.fr , Mon-Thur 10am- 8pm, Fri 10am-11pm, Sat-Sun 9am-9pm, entrance €16, Metro les Sablons (15-minute walk) or shuttle bus from Place Charles de Gaulle (corner of Avenue de Friedland)

Pompidou Centre shows contemporary art

Pompidou Centre —called “Beaubourg” by the political left—was designed by architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. The building was initially highly criticized when it opened in 1977 but quickly became an important Parisian landmark. The museum’s permanent collection is comprised of more than 1,400 works of art. In addition, there are numerous temporary exhibitions, as well as film screenings and conferences. Don’t miss the bookshop and be sure to go up to the top for a fantastic view of the city.

Place Georges Pompidou, www.centrepompidou.fr , Mon & Wed-Sun 11am-9pm, €14, view only €5, Metro Hôtel de Ville

View Paris from the front steps of Sacré-Coeur

The Romano-Byzantine basilica of Sacré-Coeur was built to honor the Sacred Heart and ask forgiveness for the blood shed during the Franco-Prussian War. Those who dare to climb the 222 steps will be rewarded with a stunning panoramic view of Paris. But you can also take the elevator. Although the exterior is very striking, the interior is also worth a visit. The church is decorated with paintings and sculptures. Inside the dome is a large mosaic with one of the largest images in the world of Jesus Christ.

35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre, 18th arr., www.sacre-coeur-montmartre.com , daily 6am-11pm, free, Metro Abbesses

See groundbreaking exhibits in the Palais de Tokyo

The exhibitions in the experimental 21st-century exhibit space Palais de Tokyo are always unique and boundary-pushing, with light and sound effects and moving objects. The space is enormous, so it can contain large objects. The exhibits vary tremendously, but there is always something to discover. The museum shop is also worth a visit—it sells unique books and fun knickknacks. The restaurant with a terrace serves international fare.

13 Avenue du Président Wilson, 16th arr., www.palaisdetokyo.com , Mon & Wed-Sun noon-midnight, €12, Metro Iéna

Discover science, film, and music in Parc de la Villette

Parc de la Villette focuses on science and art. The futuristic municipal park has been around since 1986 and has, among other things, a playground, a concert hall, an IMAX theater (La Géode) and a variety of museums. Visit, for example, the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (science museum) and the Cité de la Musique/Philharmonie de Paris (music museum). The park is full of activity, such as movies in the open-air theater in July and August. Check out the website for the latest program. You can easily spend the entire day here.

211 Avenue Jean Jaurès, 19th arr., www.villette.com , daily, free to park, museums €7-€16, Metro Porte de Pantin / Porte de la Villette

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• Solar Eclipse 2024

See the 2024 Solar Eclipse’s Path of Totality

A total solar eclipse is expected to pass through the United States on April 8, 2024, giving stargazers across the country the opportunity to view the celestial phenomenon in which the sun is completely covered by the moon.

The eclipse will enter the U.S. in Texas and exit in Maine. It is the last time a total solar eclipse will be visible in the contiguous United States until 2044.

Here's what to know about the path of the eclipse and where you can see it.

Read More : How Animals and Nature React to an Eclipse

Where can you see the total solar eclipse?

The eclipse will cross through North America, passing over parts of Mexico, the United States, and Canada. 

The eclipse will enter the United States in Texas, and travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will also experience the total solar eclipse.

Much of the eclipse's visibility depends on the weather. A cloudy day could prevent visitors from seeing the spectacle altogether.

When does the solar eclipse start and end?

The solar eclipse will begin in Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. It will exit continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

The longest duration of totality—which is when the moon completely covers the sun — will be 4 minutes, 28 seconds, near Torreón, Mexico. Most places along the path of totality will see a totality duration between 3.5 and 4 minutes.

Read More : The Eclipse Could Bring $1.5 Billion Into States on the Path of Totality

Where’s the best place to see the total solar eclipse?

The best place to witness the event is along the path of totality. Thirteen states will be along the path of totality, and many towns across the country are preparing for the deluge of visitors— planning eclipse watch parties and events in the days leading up to totality.

In Rochester, NY, the Rochester Museum and Science Center is hosting a multi-day festival that includes a range of events and activities. Russellville, Arkansas will host an event with activities including live music, science presentations, tethered hot-air balloon rides, and telescope viewings.

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Write to Simmone Shah at [email protected]

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