12 Best Day Trips from Paris you don’t want to miss out on!
Paris has so much to offer that it can sometimes feel overwhelming. But if you’re itching to explore beyond the city, you’ve got plenty of great options.
I love Paris but I am the first one to agree that some of the best things to do in France are only a short train ride away! That is why I have put together a list of the 12 best day trips from Paris that – trust me – you do not want to miss out on!
These spots are all easy to reach by train and will make you feel like you’re getting more out of your French vacation than just croissants.
1. Versailles: A Must-Visit Royal Experience
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in complete, over-the-top opulence, Versailles is your place.
Just a short train ride from Paris, the Château de Versailles was built by Louis XIV, the Sun King, and it’s basically one big ‘look how fancy I am’ statement.
The Hall of Mirrors is breathtaking, with crystal chandeliers that probably cost more than a small country.
Then there are the State Apartments, the Grand Trianon, and Marie Antoinette’s boudoir.
The gardens of the Palace of Versailles are so expansive that you could easily spend the entire day wandering through them, pretending you’re royalty.
And if you get tired, just know that you’re walking on the same grounds where history’s most important people once strolled – including the ones who lost their heads in the Revolution.
- How to get there: Hop on the RER C from Paris to Versailles Château Rive Gauche. The train ride is about 45 minutes, and from the station, it’s just a short walk to the palace entrance. If you can, buy your train tickets in advance to avoid the lines and ensure a smooth start to your day of royal indulgence.
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2. Château de Fontainebleau: A Blend of History and Nature
If Versailles is all about flash and grandeur, Château de Fontainebleau is where you go when you want something a bit more relaxed but still dripping in history.
This place was a favorite hunting lodge for French kings, including Napoleon, who had quite a soft spot for it. It’s a bit quieter than Versailles, but no less impressive.
The UNESCO World Heritage Site is packed with gorgeous rooms, including Henri d’Orléans’ boudoir, and it has sprawling gardens designed to make you feel like you’re in your own royal backyard.
Plus, there’s the forest of Fontainebleau, which is perfect for getting lost in nature (or just pretending you’re on a royal hunt, minus the hunting part).
- How to get there: Take the train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon, a journey that takes about 40 minutes. From the station, grab a short bus ride or taxi to reach the château. It’s a great option for an easy day trip when you want a mix of history and nature, all in one go.
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3. Giverny: The Home of Monet’s Masterpieces
If your idea of a perfect day involves walking through a painting, then Giverny is the place for you.
This charming village is where Claude Monet created some of his most famous works, including those dreamy water lilies that hang in museums around the world.
When you visit Monet’s House and Gardens, it feels like you’re stepping into one of his masterpieces.
The garden is packed with colorful flowers, tranquil ponds, and, of course, the iconic Japanese bridge.
After soaking up the scenery, head over to the Musée des Impressionnismes to see even more stunning art.
The whole village has a peaceful, artistic vibe that makes it feel worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny. The trip takes about 45 minutes, and from there, you can hop on a shuttle bus to Monet’s Gardens. It’s the perfect escape if you need a break from the city and want to feel like you’re walking through a living work of art.
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4. Reims: The Heart of the Champagne Region
Reims is the unofficial capital of the Champagne region, and it’s got everything a champagne lover could want: history, stunning architecture, and plenty of bubbles.
Start your day by visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece where French kings were crowned for centuries.
After soaking up some royal vibes, head to one of the many champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot for a tour and tasting.
You’ll learn all about how champagne is made, from the vineyards to the cellars, and then – the best part – you’ll get to sip some of the finest champagne in the world.
There’s no better way to spend the day than with a glass of bubbly in hand, taking in the beauty of Reims.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare de l’Est to Reims. It’s a quick 45-minute ride, and many of the champagne houses offer tours and tastings, so book ahead if you want to sip like royalty.
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5. Disneyland Paris: Fun for the Whole Family
You don’t need to be a kid to have fun at Disneyland Paris – but having one with you definitely adds to the experience.
Just a short train ride from the city, this magical escape offers everything from thrilling rides to meet-and-greets with your favorite characters.
You can explore Disneyland Park or hop over to Walt Disney Studios for a behind-the-scenes look at the magic.
And the best part? After a day of meeting Mickey, you can hop back on the train and be in Paris in time for a late dinner.
- How to get there: Take the RER A from Paris to Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy. The journey takes about 35 minutes, and the station is right next to the park entrance. It couldn’t be easier, and trust me, you’ll be humming Disney tunes all the way back.
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6. Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: The Hidden Gem
If you’ve already done Versailles and are looking for something a little less crowded but equally stunning, head to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte.
This beautiful château is where you go to avoid the tourist hordes and still get your dose of royal history.
The Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte was the inspiration for Versailles, but with a more intimate feel.
The rooms are exquisitely decorated, and the gardens, designed by the legendary André Le Nôtre, are perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Don’t miss out on the chance to pretend you’re royalty for the day in one of France’s best-kept secrets.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare de l’Est to Verneuil-l’Étang (about 35 minutes). From there, a shuttle bus will take you directly to the château. It’s a bit off the beaten path, but totally worth the extra effort for a day away from the crowds.
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7. Loire Valley: The Land of Châteaux and Vineyards
The Loire Valley is like stepping into a fairy tale, where castles pop up around every corner, and vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see.
It’s home to some of France’s most famous châteaux, including Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.
You can easily spend an entire day wandering through grand ballrooms, taking in panoramic views, and sipping on local wines.
For wine lovers, there’s no better place to be – the Loire Valley is known for its white wines, and many of the vineyards offer tastings.
Whether you’re there for the castles or the vino, this is one day trip that will leave you feeling like you’ve truly experienced the French countryside.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare Montparnasse to Tours (about 1 hour 15 minutes). From there, you can book guided tours to see the châteaux or rent a car to explore on your own. Either way, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard.
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8. Rouen: A Journey Through Medieval France
Rouen is the kind of place where history comes alive. With its half-timbered houses, winding streets, and impressive Gothic Cathedral, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to medieval times.
The Rouen Cathedral is particularly stunning – it was even painted by Monet – and it’s where Joan of Arc was tried and executed.
Don’t miss the chance to visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to works by Monet, Géricault, and other famous artists.
After a day of exploring, sit down at a café and watch the world go by as you soak up the charm of this medieval city.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen (about 1 hour 15 minutes). Once you’re there, all the main attractions are within walking distance, so it’s easy to spend the day wandering the charming streets.
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9. Normandy: Beaches, History, and Scenic Landscapes
If you want a mix of history, beautiful landscapes, and fresh sea air, Normandy is the perfect day trip from Paris. This is a favourite day trip from Paris for many Americans.
Visit the D-Day beaches where WWII history was made, or head to Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning island with a medieval abbey perched high on a hill.
Normandy’s coastline is full of scenic spots that are perfect for a quiet day of reflection, or if you prefer, a day of exploring picturesque villages and trying local delicacies (hello, camembert cheese!).
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Caen, which takes about 2 hours. From Caen, you can rent a car or join a guided tour to visit the D-Day beaches or Mont-Saint-Michel.
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10. Amiens: Discover Gothic Grandeur
Amiens might not be the first place you think of when considering a day trip from Paris, but it should be.
This charming city is home to Amiens Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest Gothic churches in France.
The cathedral alone is worth the trip, but there’s also the peaceful hortillonnages – floating gardens that you can explore by boat.
For literature lovers, don’t miss the chance to visit the former home of Jules Verne, which has been turned into a museum dedicated to the famous author’s life and works.
In Amiens you can also visit the WW1 battlefields and cemeteries for the Battle of the Somme.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare du Nord to Amiens (about 1 hour 20 minutes). The cathedral and hortillonnages are both within walking distance from the train station, making this a super convenient and scenic day trip.
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11. Château de Chantilly: Art and Architecture Combined
For a day trip that combines stunning architecture with incredible art, look no further than Château de Chantilly.
The Musée Condé, housed in the château, has one of France’s best collections of paintings, including works by Raphael and Botticelli.
But the real showstopper here is the château’s Grand Stables, where you can catch impressive equestrian shows.
If you’re more into gardens than horses, the château’s grounds, designed by André Le Nôtre, offer beautiful walking paths that are perfect for a relaxing day in the countryside.
- How to get there: Take a train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux (about 25 minutes). From there, it’s a short taxi or bus ride to the château.
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12. Bordeaux: For Wine Lovers
If you’re willing to take a slightly longer journey, Bordeaux is a wine lover’s paradise and well worth the trip.
Known for its world-famous vineyards, Bordeaux offers an endless array of wine tours, tastings, and picturesque vineyard walks. You can even take a trip to the famous Saint Emilion from Bordeaux!
Even if you’re not a big drinker, the historic city is full of stunning architecture, quaint streets, and fantastic food.
Be sure to sample local wines and local products while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Bordeaux countryside. For me, Bordeaux is one of the best day trips from Paris.
- How to get there: Take a high-speed train from Gare Montparnasse to Bordeaux (about 2 hours). Once you arrive, many vineyards are easily accessible by car or with guided tours. Just make sure to leave room in your suitcase for all that wine you’ll want to bring back!
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