15 Incredible Day Trips from Paris

Visting the City of Love and fancy a quick trip? From the epic castles of Loire Valley to the enchanting gardens of Giverny, these 15 Incredible Day Trips from Paris will have you gallivanting across France in no time.

Paris is a city brimming with things to do, but taking a day trip outside of the city is a great way to see some lesser-known landmarks. Lucky for us, Paris is centrally located and connected easily with public transportation systems, making it easy to explore more of France if you have an extra day to spare. Whether you’re looking to explore more of Europe’s history, nature, or culture, there is an epic day trip from Paris just for you!

For reference, below is each destination on this list mapped out:

1. Château de Chantilly

Distance from Paris: 30 minutes

How to get there: The easiest way to visit is by train. From Gare du Nord, trains leave from Paris to Chantilly every hour. Purchase your tickets from the Regional Ticket machines at the train station. You can also take advantage of a package deal, including your round-trip train tickets AND your entrance to the Château for only 25 euros

Perfect for: Art lovers, horse lovers, and those looking to escape the crowds

Wanting to experience a French château, but not looking forward to the major crowds at Versailles? Opt for visiting the lesser-known Château de Chantilly instead! Located a quick train ride away from Paris, this château holds its own when competing with the numerous chateaux of France.

In 1885, Henri d’Orléans (son of the last King of France) rebuilt Château de Chantilly after it was completely demolished during the revolution. Henri was a compulsive collector of art and books, which has resulted in his grandiose collection of antique paintings being the second-largest in France after the Louvre. Not only will you get to explore the lavish interiors of the chateaux, but you’ll also experience a library with over 60,000 books and even a painting by Raphael.

After touring the museum, be sure to venture over to the horse stables. Appropriately coined the ‘Great Stables’, these are the largest stables in Europe and were built to hold 240 horses and 300 hunting dogs. When I first arrived on the Chantilly grounds, I thought these stables were the chateaux – if that tells you how grand they are! Don’t miss the daily equestrian shows to see the horses show off all their tricks.

Finally, don’t leave Chantilly without tasting the most delicious dessert in the region: chantilly cream. A French chef who worked in the kitchen of Château de Chantilly invented this super creamy whipped cream that melts in your mouth and tastes like heaven. It’s usually paired with fresh strawberries, making it a healthy dessert and one that must be tried when visiting – for tradition, of course!

2. Château de Fontainebleau

Distance from Paris: 45 minutes

How to get there: From Paris Gare de Lyon, take Transilien R to Fontainebleau-Avon. Trains depart every 30 minutes.

Perfect for: Versailles alternative with fewer crowds

Looking for another underrated chateau in France? Look no further than Château de Fontainebleau – one of the most beautifully decorated and furnished in Europe.

Dating back to 1137, no site in France can compare as a royal residence. This is the location where every French monarch resided for almost eight centuries! The history of the 35 kings that have left their mark on this chateaux is apparent, with each addition to Fontainbleau more opulent than before.

Nestled in an almost 3,000-acre forest, Fontainebleau was a favorite spot for royal hunting parties for centuries. Kings would invite their A-list friends to spend the weekend at the chateaux, and with over 1,500 rooms for guests to choose from, there was no shortage of space. In fact, the roof alone encompasses an area of 5 acres!

Guests would be greeted with elaborate frescoes and paintings, tapestries, carved wood paneling, and all the grandeur that is Fontainebleau. Today, we get to see those extravagant decorations for ourselves, just as they were in their heyday. Don’t miss the Renaissance masterpieces commissioned by François I, Napoleon I’s apartment, and Marie Antoinette’s boudoir – there’s so much history to be discovered here!

3. Giverny | Monet’s Gardens

Distance from Paris: 1 hour

How to get there: From the Paris Saint-Lazare train station, take an SNCF train to Vernon—Giverny. Tickets are around €20 round trip.

Perfect for: Art and nature lovers

Step into Monet’s famous water lily paintings with a visit to his very own garden in Giverny. Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked here for over 40 years. He transformed this 8-acre garden into the ultimate artistic inspiration, thus creating his famous water lily series. It doesn’t matter how many posters or paintings of these famous lilies you’ve seen – nothing beats a visit to Giverny to experience this famous garden in person.

4. Rouen

Distance from Paris: 1.5 hours

How to get there: From the Paris Saint-Lazare train station, take an SNCF train to Rouen Rive Droite. Tickets are around €20 round trip. Rouen can also easily be paired with a trip to Giverny. You’ll actually take the same train, but simply book separate tickets between each destination (Ex. Paris to Giverny; Giverny to Rouen; Rouen to Paris).

Perfect for: History buffs (Joan of Arc) and architecture lovers (Cathedral Notre-Dame and astronomical clock)

Before being burned alive on May 30, 1431, the heroine Joan of Arc exclaimed, “O Rouen, art thou then to be my final abode!” The exact location of her death is marked by a metal cross in the central square of Rouen today, serving as a reminder of this city’s turbulent history.

On a lighter note, Rouen today is home to quintessential half-timber houses, a stunning 14th-century horloge (clock), and its very own Cathedral Notre Dame. As the capital of the French region of Upper Normandy, this charming town is the perfect day trip to explore more of France’s history and intricate architecture.

5. Étretat

Distance from Paris: 3 hours

How to get there: By car, Étretat is 3 hours north of Paris. Be sure to pick up your rental car north of the city to avoid driving through Paris. By train, travel from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Le Havre, then catch the regular coach service line 24 for Étretat.

Perfect for: Nature lovers

Étretat is one of the most surprising day trips from Paris. Situated along Normandy’s Alabaster Coast, Étretat’s unique rock formations offer a peek into how diverse the landscape in France truly is. With its turquoise blue waters crashing against pearly white cliffs, this scenic destination is the perfect escape from the bustling city of Paris. You may even spot what looks like an elephant dipping its trunk in the waters below!

This trip is a legit full-day trip, with the journey around 3 hours one way. But it’s worth it to get some fresh, windy air out on the coast.

6. Provins

Distance from Paris: 1 hour and 20 minutes

How to get there: From Paris, take the SNCF Transilien Line P from Gare de l’Est. Trains leave every hour, and you can use a five-zone Navigo pass to get there for free.

Perfect for: Quintessential French town off-the-beaten-path

Provins is a quaint, medieval city located about an hour and a half southeast of Paris. With its 13th-century city walls and half-timber houses, visiting this small town will make you feel like you’ve stepped back into time to the era of lords and knights.

As the former capital of the Counts of Champagne, this unassuming town was once situated along the trade route between Europe and the Mediterranean. In this medieval town 1,000 years ago, the two would meet for their annual trade fairs, which resulted in Provins becoming an economic powerhouse in France. This led to the construction of city walls, underground tunnels, and fortified gates – the very same ones that are still intact for us to discover today (over 800 years later!).

If visiting during June, don’t miss the Les Médiévales festival – or the medieval fair reenactment – that takes locals and visitors alike on a journey back to the Middle Ages and gives a glimpse of what Provins must have been like in its heyday. This is the perfect festival for kids and anyone looking for something unique outside of Paris!

7. Versailles

Distance from Paris: 45 minutes

How to get there: From Paris, take RER C to Gare de Versailles Chateau Rive Gauche stop, which drops you off only 5 minutes walking from the palace

Perfect for: Architecture, history, nature, and first-time visitors to Paris

Of course, the most famous day trip from Paris is the iconic Versailles Palace. From the meticulously groomed gardens to the gold-plated facade, Versailles is something you truly have to see to believe.

Built-in 1682 as the primary residence of Louis XIV – also known as the ‘Sun King’ – Versailles took 40 years, 36,000 workers, and countless francs to complete. The end result produced one of the world’s most historic and luxurious landmarks.

During your visit, you’ll receive a free audio headset that guides you through each lavish room. Don’t miss the dazzling Hall of Mirrors, where grand balls were once held and where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, putting an end to WWI. After touring the inside, stroll through the massive Versailles Gardens, encompassing 2,000 acres of classic French formal gardens.

If you have extra time, don’t miss Marie-Antionette’s fairy-tale farm, the Hameau de la Reine, located in the Versailles Gardens. Built for Antionette to escape her every day, this charming hamlet was built to resemble a Normandy village – complete with gardens, a mill, and even livestock. It’s interesting to see how Antionette had everything she’d ever want at Versailles, yet spent most of her time at this countryside escape.

TIPS:

• Buy your ticket online to avoid the HUGE ticket line. Trust me.
• Plan your visit for the earliest time slot, usually 9AM. This avoids the brunt of the crowds.
• Tickets are free to visitors under 18 years old or EU citizens under 26
• Versailles is closed on Mondays

8. Reims

Distance from Paris: 50 minutes

How to get there: From Paris Gare de l’Est, you can arrive in Reims in 50 minutes on the TGV express train

Perfect for: Champagne lovers

Wine isn’t the only drink that France has perfected. Located only 1 hour north of Paris, the Champagne capital of Reims welcomes tourists with its cellar doors wide open.

Take a tour to your favorite Champagne cellar to learn more about the tedious process of producing that bubbly, and of course, be sure to taste test all your favorites.

Don’t leave without a visit to Reims’ iconic Cathedral Notre Dame, which some say is even more impressive than the one in Paris. At over 800 years old, this site was severely damaged during WWI but has since been repaired for all of us to enjoy still today.

9. Disneyland

Distance from Paris: 1 hour

How to get there: RER A to Gare de Marne la Vallée Chessy

Perfect for: Families and Disney/theme park lovers

While probably not the main reason for your trip to Paris, Disneyland Paris is the perfect place to hang out with Mickey Mouse for the day. As Europe’s first Disney theme park, eager fans have been flocking here for over 25 years.

If you’re a huge Disney fan, it’s interesting to see how the park differs from those around the world, with Disneyland Paris being called the ‘most lovingly detailed one’. This is the perfect fun-filled day, only 1 hour from the city center.

TIPS: Download the Disneyland Paris App to see live waiting times for all attractions. Also, don’t miss out on the Disney ‘Fast Pass,’ or the ride reservation system for some of the most popular attractions. You simply arrive at the ride and take a ticket to come back at a later time and avoid the lines – a genius idea!

10. Saint-Denis Basilica

Distance from Paris: 20 minutes

How to get there: From Paris Gare du Nord, take RER D 2 stops to Gare de Saint-Denis. Walk 10 minutes to reach the St-Denis Basilica

Perfect for: History buffs, especially for Paris history

The Basilica of Saint-Denis is named after the most famous martyr in French history, Saint-Denis. In 250AD, he was preaching Christianity to the city of Paris when local pagan priests felt threatened and ordered that he be sentenced to death. He was then killed in the neighborhood of Montmartre in northern Paris.

But the story doesn’t end there. According to legend, Saint-Denis then stood up, picked up his severed head, and walked almost 4 miles north – all while preaching a sermon the whole way! He ended up collapsing in what is now the city of Saint-Denis and was buried where the Basilica of St Denis currently stands today.

Completed in the 13th century, Saint-Denis Basilica was the first Gothic church ever built. The church was considered so holy that Pepin the Short (father of Charlemagne) was crowned king here in the year 754. It’s also the final resting place of over 70 famous French kings and queens such as Marie Antoinette and Louis VIII.

This church is brimming with history and is the perfect day trip to discover the Paris of centuries past.

11. Parc de Sceaux

Distance from Paris: 30 minutes

How to get there: RER B – La Croix de Berny stop

Perfect for: Nature lovers

Particularly stunning during cherry blossom season. Parc de Sceaux is where you’ll find locals escaping the city for some fresh air. Just 30 minutes south of the city, this small estate makes for the easiest day trip from Paris.

The sprawling formal garden is the highlight of Parc de Sceaux. Designed by the same architect that created Versailles’ famous gardens, you’ll be treated to an expert combination of greenery, symmetry, and fountains. Visit the park in April to witness one of the best cherry blossom displays in France – one of Paris’s best-kept secrets!

12. Luxembourg City

Distance from Paris: 2 hours

How to get there: Train from Gare de l’Est train station

Perfect for: City explorers

Want to see another country while visiting Paris? With its old-world charm, small-scale, and gorgeous scenery, Luxembourg City is the perfect day trip from the city of Paris.

Founded in 963, Luxembourg was once one of Europe’s greatest fortified sites due to its strategic location. In the 16th century, they turned their rocky landscape into a legendary fortress, which today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most scenic walks in Europe.

Don’t miss ‘Europe’s most beautiful balcony’ at Chemin de la Corniche. Built by the Spaniards and the French in the 17th century, this fortress offers the best views overlooking the stonewashed city below.

13. Loire Valley

Distance from Paris: 2 hours

How to get there: Renting a car is the easiest way to discover Loire Valley. I recommend renting a car from a south Paris location to avoid driving through the city center. From Paris, it’s about a 2-hour drive along A10 to reach Loire Valley.

Perfect for: Castle lovers

Who doesn’t love a good castle? In Loire Valley, you’ll be treated to your choice of over 100 fairy-tale-like chateaux, each more magnificent than the last.

Coined “The Garden of France,” the Loire Valley became a showcase of castles starting during the French Renaissance. In 1519, King Francois I built the famous Château de Chambord as a symbol of his great victories in battle. Surrounded by a 13,000-acre forest estate, the castle grounds also served as a large playground for the king’s favorite hobby: hunting. He hosted hunting parties that drew A-list celebrities from all around Europe, which started the desire for everyone to have their very own chateau in Loire Valley. Of course, who doesn’t want a grand castle in France!?

Exploring Loire Valley is one of the best experiences you can have in France. You can marvel at the most impressive rooftop at Chambord, see stunningly symmetrical gardens at Villandry, admire the castle that’s also a bridge at Chenonceau, and simply take in all the magic around every corner of this enchanting valley.

14. Mont Saint-Michel

Distance from Paris: 4-hour drive

How to get there: Unfortunately, the upper Normandy region is not well connected with public transportation. Therefore, you have two options to get to Mont-Saint-Michel: 1) Drive 4 hours from Paris or 2) take a train to Bayeaux or Caen and join a guided tour bus.

Perfect for: Castle lovers

Speaking of castles, Mont-Saint-Michel takes the prize as the most impressive in France. Perched on a small, rocky island in the midst of the North Sea lies this medieval 8th-century abbey.

With over 3 million visitors per year, Mont Saint-Michel is the 3rd most visited sight in France behind the Louvre and Eiffel Tower – whoa! Considered the “wonder of the West,” you’ll quickly see why so many tourists are eager to see this magical island for themselves.

For the best views, plan to arrive at high tide to see the water race across the sand and transform this castle into an enchanting island. In fact, Mont Saint-Michel – with its 400-foot tall abbey surrounded by water on all sides – was the inspiration for the castle in the fairy-tale movie Tangled!

Located 4 hours by car from Paris, this famous landmark is a bit of a stretch for a day trip. But, spend the night in Bayeux and combine your trip with a visit to Normandy and the historic D-Day beaches – the next stop on our list!

15. Normandy Beaches

Distance from Paris: 3 hours

How to get there: As with Mont-Saint-Michel, this area is unfortunately not well connected with public transportation. I recommend renting a car and spending the night in Bayeaux to combine your trip with Mont-St-Michel.

Perfect for: History buffs

For one of France’s most emotional journeys, visit the historic site of the D-Day beaches in Normandy. While today you’ll witness a peaceful beach, you’ll quickly realize what historic events took place here over 70 years ago. As you look across Omaha Beach, you’ll see how front-line American troops were exposed at every angle as they stormed the beach to liberate Western Europe from Nazi domination.

I recommend booking a guided tour to learn more about all the details that played out on this very site on June 6, 1944. You’ll find that the tour guides are walking encyclopedias of WWII and bring the events to life that happened right here in Normandy.

Alright, there are 15 Incredible Day Trips from Paris! Do you have a favorite destination just outside of Paris? Let me know in the comments!