Bonjour! Are you planning a visit to the City of Light and wondering what else you can explore outside its charming streets? Well, we’ve got good news for you because there are plenty of amazing day trips from Paris that will make your trip even more memorable. From enchanting castles to picturesque towns and breathtaking gardens, we’ve rounded up the best day trips from Paris that offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature.
Whether you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city or want to immerse yourself in French countryside charm, our list has got something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to embark on some unforgettable adventures just a short train ride away from Paris!
Champagne Region
The Champagne region is one of the most beautiful and popular areas to visit when traveling to France. Located just a few hours away from Paris, this region is known for its stunning scenery, delicious food, and of course, world-renowned champagne.
There are a number of different ways to explore the Champagne region, but one of the best ways is by taking a day trip from Paris. This way, you can experience all that the region has to offer without having to spend too much time traveling.
When planning your day trip from Paris to the Champagne region, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it’s important to choose the right mode of transportation. While you can take the train or drive yourself, we recommend hiring a private driver so that you can relax and enjoy the scenery along the way.
Once you’ve arrived in the Champagne region, there are a number of different activities and attractions to enjoy. We recommend starting with a tour of one of the many champagne houses in the area. Here, you’ll learn about how champagne is made and get to taste some of the best bubblies in the world!
Afterward, be sure to explore some of the charming villages in the Champagne region. These quaint towns are full of history and character and make for great photo ops. As you stroll through these villages, be sure to stop in at some of the local cafes and shops – you never know what treasures you
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley is one of the most picturesque regions in France and makes for a perfect day trip from Paris. With its rolling hills, vineyards, and castles, the Loire Valley is like something out of a fairytale.
You can explore the region by bike, boat, or on foot, and there are plenty of charming villages to stop in along the way. In the evening, you can enjoy a glass of wine from the local vineyards while watching the sunset over the valley—it’s an experience you won’t soon forget!
There is also plenty of history to explore in the Loire Valley, with centuries-old castles dotting the landscape. The most famous is Château de Chambord, a stunning Renaissance castle built by King Francis I in 1519. Other highlights include Chenonceau Castle and the beautiful gardens at Villandry. If you have time, you can also visit some of the smaller villages like Amboise and Blois to get a taste of rural French life. Whatever you choose to do, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in the Loire Valley!
Giverny
Giverny is best known as the former home of Claude Monet, and many come here to see his home and gardens which were painted in many of his famous works. However, even if you’re not an art lover, Giverny makes for a lovely day trip from Paris.
Giverny is a small village located along the Seine river about 80km northwest of Paris. In addition to Monet’s house and gardens, visitors can explore the charming streets lined with pastel-colored homes and galleries, visit the local pottery store, or tour the nearby towns of Vernon and Les Andelys.
You can also take a picnic by the river or visit one of Giverny’s many restaurants serving up regional specialties. Other activities available include canoeing down the Seine, biking through the countryside, shopping for antiques in local markets, or exploring nearby parks and forests.
No matter what you choose to do in Giverny, it makes for an idyllic escape from Paris’s hustle and bustle. Whether you’re looking for a taste of history or just want to relax in beautiful surroundings, Giverny has something for everyone!
When in Giverny visit Monet’s Gardens. The gardens are gorgeous, and it’s especially lovely in the spring when the flowers are in bloom. Monet’s former home is also open to visitors, and it’s interesting to see how he lived and worked. If you’re interested in learning more about Claude Monet and his work, there are several museums in Giverny devoted to him.
The gardens are especially stunning in the spring when the tulips and daffodils are blooming. There’s a lake with a Japanese-style bridge, beautiful flowerbeds in bright colors, and winding paths that lead to secret spots. From the house, you can also look out over the garden and take in the beauty of it all.
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting during the summer months, you should check out Monet’s Garden Party. Each year in July, thousands of people flock to Giverny for an evening of music, food, and festivities. It’s a great way to experience Monet’s work up close and personal, as well as see how his gardens have been preserved over time.
Even if you don’t have time for a full-day trip, Giverny is only about an hour from Paris by train and well worth a visit.
The Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris. Located just outside of the city, this former royal palace is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a major tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the lavish state apartments, hall of mirrors, and beautiful gardens. A trip to Versailles is not complete without seeing the famous fountains and waterworks.
The palace was constructed as a symbol of Louis XIV’s power and wealth. The Hall of Mirrors is the most iconic chamber in the palace, where the Sun King presented himself and his courtiers during lavish receptions. More than 2,000 rooms are spread over 63,154 square meters (677,630 square feet) making it one of the largest royal residences in Europe.
The gardens of Versailles are world-famous for their beauty and size. They include several formal parterres, canals, geometric flower beds, and statues. The Grand Trianon was built for Louis XIV’s private use and is located away from the main palace grounds. Today it serves as a museum focusing on French history from 1715 to 1760.
Chartres Cathedral
Chartres Cathedral, located in the town of Chartres about an hour southwest of Paris, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the best-preserved Gothic cathedrals in Europe. The cathedral’s two spires are visible from miles away, and the interior is equally stunning, with beautiful stained glass windows and intricate stone carvings.
A visit to Chartres Cathedral is a must for any traveler to Paris. The cathedral was originally built in the late 12th century and has undergone extensive renovations and restorations over the centuries. Inside, visitors will find a collection of stained glass windows dating back to the early 13th century, as well as sculptures and other artwork from subsequent periods.
The most impressive element of the cathedral is its central rose window, which is said to be the biggest in France. Every year on August 15th, people flock to Chartres Cathedral for a special procession called La Fête de la Lumière (Festival of Light). During this event, candles are lit inside the cathedral and on its outer walls to create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Château de Fontainebleau
The Château de Fontainebleau is one of the largest royal palaces in France. It is located in the town of Fontainebleau, about 60 kilometers southeast of Paris. The palace was built in the 12th century and has been home to many French kings and queens. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination.
The Château de Fontainebleau has over 1,500 rooms, making it one of the largest royal palaces in Europe. The palace grounds are vast and include several gardens, a park, and a forest. Visitors can tour the Palace interiors, which are lavishly decorated with paintings, furniture, and tapestries from the 16th and 17th centuries. The Palace also houses an art museum with works by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and other masters.
A visit to the Château de Fontainebleau is a must-do for any traveler to Paris. The palace is easily accessible by train from Paris (Gare de Lyon station) and there are several tour companies that offer day trips from Paris to the palace.
Château de Chantilly
The Château de Chantilly is one of the most beautiful and historic castles in France, and it’s only a short train ride from Paris. The castle dates back to the 16th century and is surrounded by stunning gardens. Visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms, including the Library of Louis-Philippe d’Orléans, which houses over 12,000 rare books. The castle also has a museum with a collection of paintings by famous artists such as François Boucher.
For those who want to take a break from sightseeing, the castle grounds are perfect for a picnic. There are also plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, including one in the castle itself. The Château de Chantilly is open year-round and makes a great day trip from Paris.
Château de Rambouillet
The Château de Rambouillet is a beautiful castle located just outside of Paris. It was built in the 13th century and has been used as a royal residence, a hunting lodge, and a summer retreat. Today, it is open to the public for tours and events. The castle grounds are also home to a large park and gardens.
The Château de Rambouillet is a favorite of French royalty and politicians.
It is often used as an official retreat by the president and prime minister of France. The castle features several rooms which have been restored to their original state, including the grand salon and the chapel. Visitors can also view collections of antiques, art, and furniture from different eras in the chateau’s museum.
The Château de Rambouillet is surrounded by a large park with well-kept gardens, walking paths, and lakes. Guests are welcome to explore the grounds at their leisure or take part in organized activities such as archery or horseback riding. Additionally, there are a variety of restaurants located within the park for visitors to enjoy.
The Château de Rambouillet is a great day trip from Paris for those interested in history or architecture. The castle itself is quite stunning, and the grounds are perfect for a picnic or stroll. If you’re looking for a unique day trip from Paris, the Château de Rambouillet is definitely worth a visit!
Basilique Cathédrale de Saint-Denis
The Basilique Cathédrale de Saint-Denis is one of the most beautiful and historic churches in France. It is located just outside of Paris, in the commune of Saint-Denis. The church was built in the 12th century and is the burial site of many French kings and queens. The basilica is a must-see for anyone interested in French history or architecture.
The exterior of the basilica is incredibly impressive, featuring soaring Gothic spires and a grand rose window. Inside, visitors will be amazed by the intricate stained-glass windows, which tell stories from the Bible and other religious texts. The interior also includes stunning paintings, sculptures, and tombs of French royalty.
The Basilique Cathédrale de Saint-Denis is an important part of France’s history and culture, and well worth a visit if you’re in the area.
Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is the perfect day trip for families with young children. Just a short train ride from central Paris, Disneyland Paris is a magical world of castles, rides, and characters. Kids will love meeting their favorite Disney characters and going on thrilling rides such as It’s a Small World and Space Mountain.
There are also plenty of shows and parades to enjoy throughout the day. Adults will appreciate the beautiful Disney parks, which are meticulously designed and full of fascinating details. A day at Disneyland Paris is sure to create lasting memories for the whole family.
Highlights of the park include:
- Rides: There are over 50 different rides and attractions for all ages at Disneyland Paris, including roller coasters and dark ride adventures.
- Characters: Meet your favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Pluto, and more.
- Shows: Enjoy spectacular live shows featuring singing and dancing performances with beloved Disney characters.
- Parades: Watch colorful parades as they weave their way through the park with dazzling floats and sparkling costumes.
- Dining: Experience delicious food from around the world in one of Disneyland Paris’ many restaurants.
La Vallee Village
La Vallee Village is an open-air outlet shopping center located in the commune of Serris, France, in the eastern suburbs of Paris. It is operated by Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield.
The village offers a selection of high-end fashion brands at reduced prices, as well as a food court and a number of restaurants. It is a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike and is easily accessible by public transport from Paris.
La Vallee Village is home to over 110 stores, including several designer labels such as Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, and Prada. In addition to the retail outlets, La Vallee Village also has a number of attractions and activities to keep shoppers entertained, including a games room and live entertainment. There are also regular events such as movie screenings, fashion shows, and art exhibitions.
The village is open seven days a week, with opening hours varying depending on the time of year. Parking is available at no cost, and there are several restaurants and cafes to stop for a break from shopping.
La Vallee Village is an ideal destination for a day trip from Paris or for those who are looking for an outlet shopping experience. It offers shoppers the chance to find great deals on high-end designer labels in a pleasant setting.
If you’re looking for a day trip from Paris that combines shopping with sightseeing, then La Vallee Village is the perfect place for you.
Conclusion
Paris may be one of the most fascinating cities in Europe, but it also has plenty to offer outside its city limits. From castles and wine tasting to beaches and mountains, there are so many great day trips from Paris that you can take for a unique experience. We hope this list has given you some ideas on how to make the most out of your time in France – happy travels!