The 12 most beautiful villages outside of Paris (and how to get there)
When you’ve soaked up all the magic Paris has to offer, it’s only natural to wonder what lies beyond the city’s iconic landmarks.
I’ve often found myself curious about the charming towns just a stone’s throw from Paris. These towns are perfect for a day trip or a short getaway.
But let’s be honest, figuring out which towns are worth visiting can be overwhelming.
I’ve been there, too.
That’s why I decided to create this guide. With years of exploring the North of France under my belt, I’m excited to share my top picks for the 12 most beautiful towns near Paris.
This guide is for anyone who’s already fallen in love with Paris and is eager to discover more of what France has to offer.
1. Visit Monet’s Giverny
Giverny is a picturesque village in the Normandy region of France. I absolutely love it and it’s super easy to get there as it is just a short distance from Paris. I have put this small town first as it amongst the most beautiful villages in France.
The village itself is primarily known for being the home of the famous Impressionist painter Claude Monet.
That is why Giverny attracts art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. The village is incredibly beautiful and charming.
It really does offer a glimpse into the idyllic countryside that inspired Monet’s masterpieces.
What to do in Giverny:
- Claude Monet’s House and Gardens: Visit the beautifully preserved home where Monet lived and worked. The house is filled with original furnishings and Monet’s collection of Japanese prints.
- Musée des Impressionnismes: This museum is dedicated to the Impressionist movement and features works by Monet and other Impressionist artists. It often hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of the movement.
- Eglise Sainte-Radegonde: This charming church is where Monet and his family are buried. It offers a peaceful setting and a touch of local history.
- Le Vieux Moulin (The Old Mill): A picturesque old mill near the Epte River, offering beautiful views and perfect photo opportunities.
How to get to Giverny from Paris:
- By Train: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare in Paris to Vernon-Giverny. The journey takes about 45 minutes. From Vernon, you can take a short shuttle bus ride to Giverny, which takes around 10 minutes.
- By Car: If you prefer to drive, Giverny is about 75 km from Paris. The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours via the A13 motorway.
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2. Visit the Cathedral in Chartres
Chartres is a historic town southwest of Paris. The town is especially famous for its magnificent Gothic cathedral.
Chartres is more of a town in France rather than a village but I still wanted to include this beautiful medieval town.
What I love most about Chartres are the beautiful and narrow streets and the beautifully preserved old town. Here you can walk down cobblestone streets, have tea and coffee in cute cafes and shop in small unique boutiques.
Places to visit in Chartres:
- Chartres Cathedral: Marvel at this UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its impressive stained glass windows and striking architecture.
- Old Town: Wander through the cobblestone streets, exploring quaint shops, cafes, and half-timbered houses.
- Maison Picassiette: Visit this unique house decorated with mosaics made from broken crockery, a true local gem.
How to get to Chartres from Paris
- Train: 1-hour ride from Gare Montparnasse to Chartres.
- Car: 90 km drive, about 1.5 hours via the A11 motorway.
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3. Go to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Provins
Another great town to visit if you are in Paris is Provins. This town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of all its medieval buildings. I just love the cobblestone streets and ancient towers.
This is the perfect place outside of Paris to see beautiful stone houses!
Provins used to be an important trading centre and today it is very well known for its medieval fairs and reenactments (right up my street!!).
Best things to do in Provins:
- The Caesar Tower: Climb this iconic medieval tower for panoramic views of Provins and its surroundings.
- Les Grands Souterrains: Explore the vast underground tunnels and learn about their historical significance.
- The Tithe Barn (La Grange aux Dîmes): Visit this medieval market hall turned museum to discover the town’s trading history.
- Medieval Shows and Fairs: Enjoy historical reenactments, jousting tournaments, and other lively medieval-themed events.
How to get to Provins from Paris
- Train: 1.5-hour ride from Gare de l’Est to Provins.
- Car: 90 km drive, about 1.5 hours via the A4 and N4 roads.
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4. Discover the Roman History of Senlis
Another small village near Paris I really want to recommend is Senlis. Senlis lies just North of Paris and is very rich in both history and medieval architecture. The old town is beautifully preserved.
In the centre you will find gothic churches and roman ruins but in itself Senlis is a really nice escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
Best things to see and do in Senlis:
- Senlis Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Senlis): Admire the stunning Gothic architecture of this 12th-century cathedral.
- Old Town: Stroll through the narrow, cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses, charming shops, and cafes.
- Musée d’Art et d’Archéologie: Explore this museum housed in a former episcopal palace, showcasing artifacts from Senlis’s Roman and medieval past.
- Roman Walls and Amphitheater: Discover the remnants of Senlis’s Roman heritage, including ancient walls and a well-preserved amphitheater.
How to get to Senlis from Paris
- Train: Take a train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux, then a short bus or taxi ride to Senlis.
- Car: 50 km drive, about 1 hour via the A1 motorway.
5. Visit the famous Chateau Fontainebleau
If you loved visiting Versailles you NEED to go to Fontainebleau. Here you will find one of the most beautiful castles in Paris and a really impressive forest. The Chateau of Fontainebleau itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site since it has been a residence for French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III.
The village near the castle is incredibly picturesque and I would highly recommend visiting!
If you are not that much into history you can always go hiking, cycling and even rock climbint in the surrounding forest!
Best things to do in Fontinebleau:
- Château de Fontainebleau: Explore the grand halls, opulent rooms, and beautiful gardens of this historic royal palace.
- Fontainebleau Forest: Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and rock climbing in this expansive and scenic forest.
- Town Center: Wander through the charming streets of Fontainebleau, filled with cafes, boutiques, and historical buildings.
- Napoleon Museum: Discover artifacts and exhibits dedicated to Napoleon Bonaparte, housed within the château.
How to get to Fontainebleau from Paris:
- Train: 40-minute ride from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon, followed by a short bus ride or walk to the town center and château.
- Car: 70 km drive, about 1 hour via the A6 motorway.
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6. Follow in Vincent Van Goghs Footstels in Auvers-sur-Oise
Auvers-sur-Oise is a picturesque village located northwest of Paris. The village itself is deeply connected to the life and work of Vincent van Gogh.
This charming village with many beautiful houses and historic monuments actually served as an inspiration for many of Van Gogh’s masterpieces during the final months of his life. Auvers-sur-Oise offers visitors a unique opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the famous artist and explore the places that influenced his iconic works.
Best things to do in Auvers-sur-Oise
- Auberge Ravoux: Visit the inn where Vincent van Gogh spent his final days and see the room where he lived.
- Église Notre-Dame d’Auvers: Explore the church depicted in Van Gogh’s famous painting, “The Church at Auvers.”
- Van Gogh’s Gravesite: Pay respects at the simple grave of Vincent and his brother Theo in the village cemetery.
- Château d’Auvers: Discover this beautiful 17th-century château, now a museum dedicated to Impressionist art and the village’s artistic heritage.
How to get to Auvers-sur-Oise from Paris
- Train: 1-hour ride from Gare du Nord or Saint-Lazare to Auvers-sur-Oise.
- Car: 35 km drive, about 45 minutes via the A15 motorway.
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7. Visit the picturesque village of Moret-sur-Loing
I love medieval villages so that is why I want to recommend another one: Moret-sur-Loing. This French village is located Southeast of Paris along the banks of the river Loing.
The village is famously associated with the painter Alfred Sisley who captured the landscapes around the village in his works.
Best things to do in Moret-sur-Loing
- Church of Notre-Dame: Visit this beautiful Gothic church, featuring impressive architecture and historical significance.
- Sisley’s Landscapes: Wander through the picturesque village and surrounding areas that inspired many of Alfred Sisley’s paintings.
- Medieval Gateways (Porte de Bourgogne and Porte de Samois): Explore these well-preserved medieval gateways that once protected the town.
- Loing River: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, offering beautiful views and photo opportunities.
How to get to Moret-sur-Loing from Paris
- Train: 1-hour ride from Gare de Lyon to Moret-Veneux-les-Sablons.
- Car: 80 km drive, about 1.5 hours via the A6 and A5 motorways.
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8. Vétheuil, another village associated with Monet
Vétheuil is another village that is associated with one of my absolute favourite painters: Monet. The village lies on the banks of the river Seine just Northwest of Pris.
Monet lived in Vetheuil just before he moved to Giverny and the river and beautiful views here have inspired many famous artists.
Best things to do in Vétheuil:
- Claude Monet’s House: Visit the house where Monet lived and painted, surrounded by beautiful gardens that influenced many of his works.
- Church of Saint-Martin: Explore this historic church, which features prominently in several of Monet’s paintings.
- Seine River: Enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbank, taking in the scenic views and capturing the essence of Monet’s inspiration.
- Local Art Galleries: Discover the village’s artistic heritage by visiting local galleries showcasing works inspired by Vétheuil’s landscapes.
How to get to Vétheuil from Paris
- Train and Bus: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Mantes-la-Jolie, then a short bus or taxi ride to Vétheuil.
- Car: 70 km drive, about 1 hour via the A13 motorway.
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9. Visit the castle in La Roche-Guyon
La Roche-Guyon is another picturesque village located along the Seine River, just northwest of Paris. The village itself is very well known for its dramatic cliffs and historic château.
The village’s striking landscape has inspired many artists and writers over the years. The old town is very well-preserved and perfect for an afternoon of strolling and drinking wine in the sun!
Best things to do in La Roche-Guyon
- Château de La Roche-Guyon: Explore this impressive castle built into the cliffs, featuring beautiful gardens and panoramic views of the Seine River.
- The Donjon (Keep): Climb the ancient stone steps to the top of the keep for stunning views of the village and surrounding landscape.
- The Village: Wander through the charming streets, admiring the historic buildings and quaint atmosphere.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Enjoy scenic hikes and nature walks in the surrounding area, including trails that lead through the forest and along the cliffs.
How to get to La Roche-Guyon from Paris
- Train and Bus: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Mantes-la-Jolie, then a bus or taxi ride to La Roche-Guyon.
- Car: 70 km drive, about 1 hour via the A13 motorway.
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10. Visit the birthplace of the Barbizon School of Painters
Barbizon is a quaint village located on the edge of the Fontainebleau Forest. As you know from the piece about Fontainebleau, it is located southeast of Paris.
Barbizon is known as the birthplace of the Barbizon School of painters. As you might have guessed, this means that the village has a rich artistic heritage. In the mid-19th century, Barbizon attracted many artists who sought to capture the natural beauty in the area. This then lead to an art movement that was focussed mainly on realistic depictions of rural life and landscapes.
Today you will still find many galleries and studios on the streets of Barbizon.
Best things to do in Barbizon
- Barbizon School Museum (Musée de l’École de Barbizon): Learn about the history and works of the Barbizon School artists in this museum housed in a former inn where many painters stayed.
- Jean-François Millet’s Studio: Visit the preserved studio of the famous painter, offering insights into his life and work.
- Galleries and Art Studios: Explore the numerous art galleries and studios showcasing contemporary and historical artworks inspired by the Barbizon landscape.
- Fontainebleau Forest: Enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, walking, and picnicking in the beautiful forest that inspired many Barbizon School paintings.
How to get to Barbizon from Paris
- Train and Bus: Take a train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon, then a bus or taxi ride to Barbizon.
- Car: 60 km drive, about 1 hour via the A6 motorway.
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11. Explore the historic streets of Montfort-l’Amaury
Another amazing village near Paris I want to recommend is Montfort-l’Amaury. This medieval village is very well-preserved and located in the heart of the Rambouillet forest.
Best things to do in Montfort-l’Amaury
- Saint-Pierre Church: Visit this beautiful Gothic church, known for its impressive stained glass windows and historic significance.
- Maurice Ravel Museum: Explore the former home of the famous composer, now a museum dedicated to his life and work.
- The Old Ramparts: Walk along the remnants of the ancient fortifications, offering picturesque views of the village and surrounding countryside.
- Rambouillet Forest: Enjoy hiking, cycling, and nature walks in the expansive forest that surrounds the village.
How to get to Montfort-l’Amaury from Paris
- Train: 45-minute ride from Gare Montparnasse to Montfort-l’Amaury-Méré, followed by a short walk or taxi ride to the village center.
- Car: 45 km drive, about 1 hour via the N12 road.
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12. Visit the castle and village of Chantilly
Last but not least I would also recommend Chantilly. I first visited when I was very young but little me really though the castle and race course were magical. The castle has extensive gardens and is a beautiful example of French Renaissance architecture. Inside you will find a stunning art collection and very old manuscripts.
Honestly there is so much to see and do here – from the beautiful parkland and the Great Stables to the Living Museum of the Horse… I just love Chantilly.
Best things to do in the fairytale village of Chantilly
- Château de Chantilly: Explore the grand château, including the Condé Museum, which features one of the finest art collections in France, and the stunning gardens designed by André Le Nôtre.
- The Great Stables (Les Grandes Écuries): Visit these impressive 18th-century stables, home to the Living Museum of the Horse, where you can learn about equestrian history and watch live horse shows.
- Chantilly Park: Stroll through the vast and beautifully landscaped park, including the English Garden, the Hamlet, and the Grand Canal.
- Hippodrome de Chantilly: If you’re a fan of horse racing, check out the Chantilly Racecourse, one of the most prestigious in France.
How to get to Chantilly from Paris
- Train: 25-minute ride from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux, followed by a short walk or taxi ride to the town center and château.
- Car: 50 km drive, about 1 hour via the A1 motorway.
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