Paris is an amazing city to explore. But the area around Paris also has many wonderful places. You can visit castles, charming towns, historic sites, and beautiful nature. These places are perfect for day trips. You can see a lot and return to Paris in the evening.
This guide shows 12 great day trips from Paris. Each trip is easy to reach by train or car. You will find tips on what to see and do at each destination.
1. Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous royal palaces in the world. It is about 20 kilometers (12 miles) southwest of Paris. You can reach it by train in about 45 minutes.
What to See
The palace has stunning rooms with gold and mirrors. The Hall of Mirrors is especially famous. The gardens are large and beautifully designed with fountains, statues, and flower beds. Don’t miss the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, smaller palaces in the park.
Tips for Visitors
Buy tickets in advance to avoid long lines. The gardens are free to enter on some days, but the fountain shows require a ticket. Bring comfortable shoes because there is a lot of walking.
2. Giverny and Monet’s Garden
Giverny is a small village about 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Paris. It was the home of the painter Claude Monet. You can get there by train and bus or by car in about 1.5 hours.
What to See
Visit Monet’s house and his beautiful gardens. The water lilies pond inspired many of his famous paintings. The house is decorated with Japanese art and bright colors. There is also a museum dedicated to Impressionist art nearby.
Tips for Visitors
The garden is open from April to November. It can get crowded in summer, so visit early in the day. Photography is allowed in the garden but not inside the house.
3. Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a popular destination for families and Disney fans. It is located about 32 kilometers (20 miles) east of Paris. You can reach it by train in about 45 minutes.
What to Do
The park has many rides, shows, and parades. You can meet Disney characters and enjoy themed restaurants. There are two parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park.
Tips for Visitors
Buy tickets online in advance. Arrive early to avoid long waits. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water and snacks. Stay until the evening to see the fireworks show.
4. Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau is a historic town about 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Paris. It is famous for its large forest and the Château de Fontainebleau, a former royal palace.
What to See
The château is decorated with Renaissance and classical art. It was a home for many French kings, including Napoleon. The forest is popular for hiking, rock climbing, and picnics.
Tips for Visitors
Visit the château in the morning and then enjoy nature in the afternoon. Fontainebleau town has nice cafés and shops for lunch and souvenirs.
5. Chartres Cathedral
Chartres is a small city about 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of Paris. It is famous for its cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
What to See
The cathedral has beautiful stained glass windows that tell Bible stories. The two towers have different styles, showing the cathedral’s history. The town around the cathedral has old streets and markets.
Tips for Visitors
Take a guided tour to understand the history and art of the cathedral. Visit in the evening during summer for the light and sound show.
6. Rouen
Rouen is a historic city about 135 kilometers (84 miles) northwest of Paris. It is known for its medieval buildings and its connection to Joan of Arc.
What to See
Visit the Rouen Cathedral with its gothic spires. See the Gros Horloge, a famous astronomical clock. Joan of Arc’s place of trial is also a popular site. The old town has half-timbered houses and cobbled streets.
Tips for Visitors
Try the local Normandy cuisine, like apple cider and Camembert cheese. Rouen is best visited on foot to enjoy its charm.
7. Reims and the Champagne Region
Reims is about 130 kilometers (81 miles) northeast of Paris. It is the unofficial capital of the Champagne wine region.
What to Do
Visit the Reims Cathedral where many French kings were crowned. Tour famous Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger. Learn about the wine-making process and taste different Champagnes.
Tips for Visitors
Book Champagne house tours in advance. Plan time for lunch in one of the local bistros. Take a stroll in the city center to enjoy its architecture.
8. Provins
Provins is a medieval town about 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Paris. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What to See
Explore the old city walls and towers. Watch medieval shows with knights and horses. Visit the underground tunnels and markets. The town looks like it did in the Middle Ages.
Tips for Visitors
Wear comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones. Check the schedule for medieval shows and festivals. Try the local specialties like Provins’ honey.
9. Chantilly
Chantilly is a town about 50 kilometers (31 miles) north of Paris. It is famous for its castle and horse racing.
What to See
Visit the Château de Chantilly, a grand castle with art galleries and a library. The gardens are beautiful and well maintained. The Great Stables and horse museum are also interesting to visit.
Tips for Visitors
Try Chantilly cream, a sweet whipped cream named after the town. The town has good restaurants for lunch. You can combine a castle visit with a walk in the forest.
10. Auvers-sur-Oise
Auvers-sur-Oise is a village about 35 kilometers (22 miles) northwest of Paris. It is famous for its connection to the painter Vincent van Gogh.
What to See
Visit the house where Van Gogh lived and worked. See the church and landscapes that inspired his paintings. The village has an art museum and Van Gogh’s grave in the local cemetery.
Tips for Visitors
Take a bike or walk around the village to see Van Gogh’s views. The village is peaceful and less touristy.
11. Vaux-le-Vicomte
Vaux-le-Vicomte is a beautiful château about 55 kilometers (34 miles) southeast of Paris. It inspired the Palace of Versailles.
What to See
The château has stunning rooms and impressive furniture. The gardens are large with fountains and statues. They offer candlelight tours in the evening during summer.
Tips for Visitors
Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds. The château café offers good snacks and drinks. Evening visits are magical with lights and music.
12. Barbizon
Barbizon is a small village about 60 kilometers (37 miles) southeast of Paris. It was home to many 19th-century painters.
What to See
Visit art galleries and museums about the Barbizon school of painters. The village is charming with old houses and forests. It is a great place for nature walks and inspiration.
Tips for Visitors
Try local restaurants serving French country food. The village is quiet, perfect for a relaxing day.
How to Plan Your Day Trips from Paris
Choosing Your Destinations
Think about what you like: history, art, nature, or food. Some places are better for families, others for couples or solo travelers. Check travel times and transportation options.
Transportation Options
Many day trips are easy by train. Trains from Paris depart from major stations like Gare Saint-Lazare, Gare de Lyon, or Gare du Nord. Some places are best reached by car or bus.
Time Management
Start early to make the most of your day. Some places need more time, like Versailles or Reims. Others can be explored in a few hours, like Barbizon or Auvers-sur-Oise.
Tickets and Reservations
Buy tickets online in advance when possible. Some attractions have limited capacity. Guided tours can enhance your experience.
Final Thoughts
Paris is a wonderful city. But the surrounding area is full of surprises. These 12 day trips offer many ways to explore French culture, history, and nature. Whether you want to see royal palaces, taste Champagne, or walk in the footsteps of great artists, there is something for you.
Plan your trips well and enjoy the variety. Day trips from Paris are easy and rewarding. They will add unforgettable memories to your visit to France.
Bon voyage!
