Paris France Day Trips

Best Day Trips from Paris, France

Paris, the City of Light, is a treasure trove of art, history, and culture. But there’s more to France than just its capital city. Within a few hours of Paris, you can explore charming towns, majestic châteaux, and picturesque countryside. Here are some of the best day trips from Paris:

1. Versailles Palace

  • Distance from Paris: 12 miles (19 km), 30-40 minutes by train
  • Must-see attractions: Hall of Mirrors, Royal Chapel, Gardens of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a must-visit day trip from Paris. This former royal residence is famous for its stunning architecture, opulent decorations, and breathtaking gardens.

2. Reims and Champagne

  • Distance from Paris: 81 miles (130 km), 45 minutes by train
  • Must-see attractions: Reims Cathedral, champagne cellars, vineyards

Visit the beautiful city of Reims, famous for its cathedral where many French kings were crowned. Combine this with a visit to the Champagne region, where you can taste some of the world’s finest bubbly.

3. Fontainebleau Forest and Château

  • Distance from Paris: 34 miles (55 km), 35-45 minutes by train
  • Must-see attractions: Fontainebleau Castle, forest hiking trails

Escape to the picturesque Fontainebleau Forest, where you can hike, bike, or horseback ride. Don’t miss the stunning Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

4. Auvers-sur-Oise and Van Gogh

  • Distance from Paris: 27 miles (43 km), 45-60 minutes by train
  • Must-see attractions: Auvers-sur-Oise village, Van Gogh’s house, Absinthe Museum

Visit the charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise, where Vincent van Gogh lived and painted. Explore his former home, now a museum, and enjoy the picturesque countryside.

5. Giverny and Claude Monet

  • Distance from Paris: 46 miles (74 km), 1 hour by train
  • Must-see attractions: Giverny village, Monet’s Gardens, Museum of Impressionism

Step into the world of Impressionism in Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and painted. Stroll through his beautiful gardens, now a museum, and explore the charming village.

6. Chantilly Castle and Horse Museum

  • Distance from Paris: 28 miles (45 km), 25-40 minutes by train
  • Must-see attractions: Chantilly Castle, Horse Museum, park and gardens

Discover the stunning Chantilly Castle, a former royal residence with an impressive art collection. Don’t miss the Horse Museum, dedicated to all things equestrian.

7. Provins Medieval Town

  • Distance from Paris: 55 miles (89 km), 1 hour by train
  • Must-see attractions: UNESCO-listed medieval town, ramparts, rose garden

Step back in time in the charming medieval town of Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its well-preserved fortifications, quaint streets, and picturesque rose garden.

These day trips from Paris offer a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty, making them perfect for anyone looking to explore beyond the City of Light.