6 Enchanting Day Trips from Paris (Can’t Miss)
Paris is incredible, but some of France’s best-kept treasures are just a quick trip away. Imagine wandering through royal gardens, exploring medieval streets, or sipping champagne in historic cellars – all within 1.5 hours of the city. Each of these trips offers its own unique charm and a chance to see a different side of France.
Versailles: The Ultimate Day Trip
Location: Versailles, southwest of Paris. 40 minutes by train (RER C).
Suggested visit time: 4-6 hours.
Versailles is the pinnacle of French royal luxury. The palace stuns with its Hall of Mirrors, golden gates, and rich décor. Outside, the gardens are a masterpiece, with fountains, sculptures, and the iconic canal.
Don’t miss the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, a charming escape within the estate. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, but the crowds can be heavy, especially in summer. Arrive early or visit late to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Giverny: Walk Through Monet’s Masterpiece
Location: Giverny, northwest of Paris. 1 hour by train and shuttle.
Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours.
Giverny is a dream destination for art and nature lovers. Visit Monet’s home, with its amazing flower garden and iconic water lily pond, walk across the Japanese bridge.
The town also houses the Museum of Impressionism. The best time to visit is spring and summer, when the gardens are in full bloom. Be prepared for crowds during peak season. The serene beauty is worth it, though.
Reims: Champagne in History
Location: Reims, northeast of Paris. 45 minutes by train.
Suggested visit time: 4-5 hours.
Reims, the heart of the Champagne region, is where historic cathedrals meet world-famous champagne houses. Start at the Notre-Dame Cathedral, where French kings were crowned, and admire its intricate sculptures and stained glass.
Next, explore champagne cellars like Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger, where you can tour underground caves and enjoy tastings. Don’t miss the Palace of Tau for royal treasures. Reims is busiest during harvest season and holiday.
Fontainebleau: A Regal Escape
Location: Fontainebleau, southeast of Paris. 45 minutes by train.
Suggested visit time: 3-5 hours.
Château de Fontainebleau was once a royal residence. It’s less crowded than Versailles but equally stunning, with amazing Renaissance and classical architecture. Highlights include the Gallery of Francis I, with its rich frescoes, and Napoleon’s throne room. The surrounding forest is a great place for a walk or picnic.
You can spend hours exploring the royal apartments, gardens, and the peaceful trails nearby.
Château de Chantilly: Elegance in Every Detail
Location: Chantilly, north of Paris. 25 minutes by train.
Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours.
The Château de Chantilly is a treasure trove of art, architecture, and nature. The château itself houses the Musée Condé, with one of France’s finest art collections, including works by Raphael. The gardens were designed by André Le Nôtre, creator of Versailles’ gardens.
Don’t miss the stables, which house the Living Museum of the Horse. Located in the serene town of Chantilly, it’s less crowded than Versailles – a peaceful and elegant experience.
Rouen: A Walk Through Medieval History
Location: Rouen, northwest of Paris. 1 hour and 15 minutes by train.
Suggested visit time: 4-6 hours.
Rouen’s Gothic cathedral inspired Monet and is an architectural marvel with its grand spire. The medieval streets are lined with half-timbered houses. The Joan of Arc Museum, tells the story of her trial and martyrdom.
The Gros Horloge, a large astronomical clock, is a highlight of the city center. Rouen attracts visitors year-round but with moderate crowds, so it’s typically enjoyable to explore.
Chartres: A Gothic Wonder
Location: Chartres, southwest of Paris.1 hour by train.
Suggested visit time: 3-4 hours.
Chartres is famous for its impressive cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Some of the extraordinary stained glass windows date back to the 12th century.
Climb the tower for views of the surrounding countryside. Stroll through the charming old town with its quaint shops and cafés. Chartres has a peaceful, small-town atmosphere. Crowds are generally light, except during religious festivals.
Provins: A Trip Into Medieval France
Location: Provins, southeast of Paris – 1.5 hours by train.
Suggested visit time: 4-5 hours.
This UNESCO-listed town offers well-preserved walls, medieval towers, and underground tunnels. Visit the Tithe Barn Museum to learn about medieval trade. You can also catch a falconry show for a unique experience.
The town hosts medieval festivals that draw larger crowds, but it’s quieter on weekdays. A fascinating dive into France’s medieval past.
Vaux-le-Vicomte: Versailles’ Inspiration
Location: Maincy, southeast of Paris – 1 hour and 15 minutes by car.
Suggested visit time: 4-5 hours.
Vaux-le-Vicomte is a baroque masterpiece, and the château that inspired Versailles. Its perfectly symmetrical gardens were designed by André Le Nôtre. The lavish rooms illustrate the height of 17th-century French opulence.
If you can, catch an evening candlelit tour for a magical atmosphere. Located in Maincy, it’s less crowded than Versailles but just as impressive.