While Paris offers countless things to see and do, sometimes you just need to get out of the city. Check out these incredible destinations that make great day trips from Paris.
Versailles
Probably one of the most popular day trips from Paris! Versailles is easily accessed by train and it’s just a short walk from the station to the main attraction…Chateau de Versailles. Because of the area’s popularity, large crowds are common, so keep this in mind when you’re planning. Exploring the palace and the extensive (impressive!) gardens are the most common activities. However, horse lovers will also enjoy visiting the carriage museum and the stables (see A Horse Lover’s Guide to Paris for more information).
Chantilly
If you’re looking for a less crowded alternative to Versailles, you may want to consider visiting Chateau de Chantilly. Though not as opulent as Versailles, Chantilly is still very impressive…and (for horse lovers) includes an impressive stable complex (see A Horse Lover’s Guide to Paris for more information). Chantilly is also easy to get through via train and a short walk or shuttle bus ride will take you to the site.
Fontainebleau
Another less crowded alternative to Versailles is Fontainebleau. Equally as opulent as Versailles, but without as many tourists. You’ll need to take the train to the Fontainebleau/Avon stop and then catch the bus to the chateau (unless you fancy a long walk).
Provins
A medieval town famous for its roses. Getting there is quick and easy via train from Paris. Popular sites include the underground tunnels, watchman’s tower, the local museum, and the tithe barn.
Giverny
Visit the tranquil scene that inspired Monet’s waterlilies. Easily accessed by train, Giverny (and the nearby Vernon where the train station is located) is an excellent choice for a day out of the city. You can visit Monet’s home and tomb, the Museum of Impressionism, modern day Impressionist’s galleries, and a network of walking trails. In Vernon, you’ll find additional sites to explore such as the Old Mill, the church Collegiale Notre-Dame, and a 13th century castle.
Champagne region
The famous Champagne wine region is only a short trip from Paris with a huge variety of vineyards and champagne houses to visit! While you can take a train from Paris to both Epernay and Reims (the two main centers of the Champagne region), this may be one situation where taking a guided tour would be best as they can provide transport between the individual properties. Wine isn’t the only thing to do in the area. Reims also has the Notre Dame de Reims is worth a visit.
Chartres
Deemed a UNESCO world heritage site, the cathedral in Chartres is worth a visit. And the cobblestoned old city surrounding it still has a medieval feel. You can get there quickly and easily via train from Paris.
Nantes
With an approximate 2 hour train ride, Nantes is a bit further than many day trip locations. However, this walkable city brimming with arts and culture is certainly a worthy destination. You’ll find a wide variety of art galleries, restaurants, and shops to occupy your time. In addition, you can visit the gothic St. Pierre and St. Paul cathedral, chateau des Ducs de Bretagne, the Musee des Beaux-Arts, and beautiful botanical gardens. Fans of Jules Verne will be excited not only to visit his house and museum…but to visit the Machines de l’Ile de Nantes, a fantastical collection of mechanical wonders that could have come straight from the author’s pages.
London
Thanks to the Eurostar (see Taking the Eurostar between London and Paris), London is just a relatively quick train ride away. And…if you don’t mind a long day…it can certainly be a quick day (or weekend!) trip. London is full of iconic sights and experiences. Too many to list here. Check out Free Things to do in London, A Horse Lover’s Guide to London, and more London posts for ideas.
Mont Saint Michel
Though the Normandy region is probably better suited to a weekend trip, if you wanted to make a single day of it, Mont Saint Michel would likely be the best option from Paris. The site is easily accessed by train and the walk from the station to the site is perfect for photo opportunities. The towering Abbey is the most popular site, but the narrow streets filled with quaint shops and restaurants are worth exploring as well.
