Day Trips Paris

Day Trips from Paris

Paris, the City of Light, is a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding regions. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and charming towns, there’s no shortage of exciting day trip options.

Château de Fontainebleau

  • Distance: 34 miles (55 km) southeast of Paris
  • Travel time: Approximately 1 hour by car or train

This magnificent castle has been a royal residence for over 800 years. Its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history make it a must-visit.

Tips:

  • Book your tickets in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Don’t miss the stunning fountain shows during the summer months.

Reims and its Cathedral

  • Distance: 81 miles (130 km) northeast of Paris
  • Travel time: Approximately 1.5 hours by car or train

Reims is famous for its majestic cathedral, where many French kings were crowned. Take a stroll through the charming town center, visit the champagne cellars, and sample some of the region’s famous bubbly.

Tips:

  • Try to visit on a weekday to avoid weekend crowds.
  • Book a guided tour of the cathedral for a deeper understanding of its history and significance.
  • Don’t forget to taste some of Reims’ delicious local specialties, such as biscuit rose or champagne truffles.

Giverny and Claude Monet’s Garden

  • Distance: 46 miles (74 km) northwest of Paris
  • Travel time: Approximately 1.5 hours by car or train

Step into the world of Impressionism at Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and painted some of his most famous works. Stroll through the beautiful gardens, visit Monet’s former home, and enjoy the charming village atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the crowds.
  • Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens.
  • Don’t miss the nearby Musée des Impressionnismes for an in-depth look at Monet’s life and art.

The Palace of Versailles

  • Distance: 12 miles (19 km) southwest of Paris
  • Travel time: Approximately 30-40 minutes by car or RER C train

This former royal palace is a must-visit, with its stunning Hall of Mirrors, beautiful gardens, and fascinating history.

Tips:

  • Book your tickets well in advance to avoid long queues.
  • Consider visiting on a weekday during the off-season (October to March) for smaller crowds.
  • Don’t miss the Grand Canal, where you can rent a boat or enjoy a picnic.

Whether you’re interested in history, art, architecture, or simply enjoying the French countryside, there’s a day trip from Paris that’s sure to delight. Bon voyage!