15 Best Day Trips From Paris

These 15 best day trips from Paris offer it all; from fairytale châteaux and Champagne tastings to medieval towns and Monet-inspired landscapes.

Although Paris, is one of the world’s most magical cities filled with art, culture, fine food, and fashion sometimes you need a day away to explore what else France has to offer. Luckily, within an hour from Paris, you can get lost in Medieval cities, colorful chateaus, or treat yourself to some champagne tasting. With a day trip to suit everyone, it seems a shame not to indulge in one of Paris’s nearby treasures.

A massive thank you to Jessica from Books and Bao for her guest post on these amazing day trips from Paris. 

Best Day Trips From Paris

1. Versailles

Versailles is one of the most popular day trips from Paris and an easy way to experience a little more of French culture and history.

The stunning Chateaus de Versailles is the main draw to the area and considering its vibrant colors and stunning interiors, it’s easy to see why people take the forty-five-minute trip just to see the castle. However, there’s a lot more to see in the near vicinity like the Mirrors Gallery, the extensive palace gardens, and the city of Versailles itself.

Exploring Versailles is far more peaceful than visiting the palace itself – the Halles Notre-Dame food market is a good choice for seeing local life, visiting the Royal Opera House offers spectacular views and a show if desired, and quiet strolls along the river offer a stunning view of the palace. To get to Versailles just purchase an RER train ticket to Versailles – Chateau -River Gaunce.

2. Disneyland Paris

Of course, we can’t write about the day trips from Paris without mentioning this magical world!

Disneyland Paris (or Euro Disney) is just 20 miles east of the center of Paris and can be reached by the RER train; it is often one of the reasons to visit Paris for families.

Every day the carriages on this train are packed with people wearing Mickey Mouse ears who are making their way for a day of Disney fun. The train terminates at Marne-la-Vallee station at the gates of Disneyland and the whole journey takes 40 minutes from the city center.

A day at Disney is what you might expect, with different sections dedicated to Disney films, dressed-up characters roaming around, and rides galore. Of course, there are some distinctly French twists just waiting to be discovered and the themed bakeries are a must-visit.

Although, one of the bigger Disneyland parks (when compared to Hong Kong or Tokyo Disney), it’s still far more manageable than Disney World and you can experience most of the best rides at Disneyland Paris is 1-2 days.

Although not quite historic, day trips from Paris to Disney should definitely be added to your Paris Itinerary. 

3. Le Mont Saint-Michel

One of the most beautiful monasteries on Earth and one of the most gothic and dramatic to see from a distance. The UNESCO world heritage site Le Mont Saint-Michel is a colossal piece of architecture, surrounded by a small village, all sitting atop an island that is only accessible at low tide. Everything about this place is a mix of medieval and gothic French architecture and tone.

The inner sanctum of the monastery is inaccessible to the public, but almost everything else is free to be explored, this is a photographer’s dream. While there’s not much else to do nearby and the trip is quite long, the main event itself is more than worth it.

If you’re driving or taking a tour bus there (the journey takes around four hours), then you’ll be treated to gorgeous views of the French countryside along the way during your day trips from Paris. Your other option is to take an early train to Rennes and then connect to the Keolis bus which takes between 4-5 hours. It’ll be a long day but a truly unforgettable visit.

4. Loire Valley

If you love French castles (and who doesn’t?) then the Loire Valley is a wondrous sight to behold – this is the place to go if you want to immerse yourself in history.

Just 200km south of Paris (2.5 hours by car or bus) and considered ‘The Gardens of France’ there are close to a thousand castles to admire. You’ll also find beautiful vineyards and historical sites throughout the area making for a wonderful day trips from Paris.

Once home to the nobility of France, there are royal and fairy-tale vibes across Loire Valley – you can even find Chateau De Chambord which supposedly inspired the Disney Beauty and the Beast animator.

Unless you’re driving around France, the easiest way to visit Loire Valley is with a private tour as it’s hard to get between the individual castles with public transport.

Alternatively, you can take a train to Tours station (two hours each way or one hour on the more expensive fast train) and then rent a bike and cycle between the castles. Seeing these stunning castles and living out your own fairy-tale fantasy is well worth the journey.

5. Epernay

Who doesn’t love champagne? This is one of the best day trips from Paris for getting to know the French drink and taking a tour of the gorgeous area.

For a day of drinking the best place to head is De Castellane, after indulging in champagne tasting as you can also explore the cellars and climb the tower for stunning views of Epernay. You can also stroll along the Marne river and enjoy the attractive town.

Treat yourself while you’re there by trying the fantastic local restaurants where you can indulge in more fantastic champagne with your traditional lunch. Don’t forget to stroll down Avenue de Champagne to see many of the most famous champagne houses.

The train to Epernay leaves every two hours and there are five trains a day so make sure you plan this trip ahead. However, it’s only an hour and twenty minutes on the train, once you get going, so it’s an easy day trip that offers rewarding views and a delightfully tipsy day ahead.

6. Giverny

A perfect day trips from Paris for art lovers, Giverny was the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet who lived here from 1882 until he died in 1926.

Wandering around this elegant town, you can see the inspiration for many of his paintings including the iconic Japanese Garden. Take pictures on the waterfront and enjoy the water lilies and Japanese Bridge that inspired Monet himself.

Truthfully, the whole area is an art lover or photographer’s dream and there’s no end to the romantic scenes and pictures you can take here.

While there, you can also visit Claude Monet’s home, his first studio which includes reproductions of his paintings, and various rooms which were important to him. The flower garden attached to the house is also perfect for exploring. It takes less than 45-minutes to get to Giverny on the train making this an easy and incredibly rewarding day trip from Paris.

7. Medieval City of Provins

If you’re ready for another stunning UNESCO world heritage site, then this well-preserved medieval village in the Ile-de-France region is perfect.

Provins takes you back in time to an age of falcons, castles, and horse shows and offers views that you didn’t think were possible.

An easy day trip, just 90 kilometers southeast of Paris, you can reach Provins on an hourly train which takes an hour and twenty minutes. There are over 58 ancient monuments to see in the city, and some of the major sites include 1.200 meters of 11th-century ramparts and fortified gates to walk around.

The medieval fortress of Tour Cesar, sat atop a hill can’t be missed and offers stunning views over the town. While there, make sure you catch the underground galleries dotted around the city for a snapshot of the Medieval art that is very much part of the city’s culture.

Throughout the year, Provins brings its history to life with costumed reenactments and medieval festivals, making it an especially fun visit for families or history lovers. Stop for lunch in a rustic tavern-style restaurant and try local specialties flavoured with rose — a nod to the town’s historic rose gardens. It’s one of the most immersive and unique day trips from Paris, offering something completely different from the capital’s elegant boulevards.

8. Strasbourg

If you’re willing to hop on a high-speed train for a slightly longer adventure, Strasbourg makes for an unforgettable day trip from Paris.

Sitting close to the German border, this Alsatian gem blends French elegance with German charm, creating a city that feels completely distinct from the capital. Wander through the postcard-perfect district of La Petite France, where half-timbered houses lean over winding canals, then gaze up at the intricate façade of the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral, one of Europe’s finest Gothic masterpieces.

Strasbourg is also known for its cosy winstubs (traditional Alsatian taverns), where you can sample hearty regional dishes like tarte flambée and choucroute garnie. In winter, the city transforms into one of Europe’s most magical Christmas destinations in Europe, but it’s beautiful year-round, with flower-lined bridges and lively squares. Elegant, atmospheric and effortlessly charming, Strasbourg feels like stepping into a storybook — all within reach of Paris in a day.

9. Chartres

Just over an hour by train from Paris, Chartres is a must-visit for lovers of architecture and history. Its crown jewel is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, widely regarded as one of the finest and most complete examples of Gothic art in Europe.

Step inside to be awed by soaring vaults and some of the most stunning stained glass windows in France — a kaleidoscope of colour that tells biblical stories in light. Beyond the cathedral, Chartres’ medieval centre beckons with narrow cobblestone streets, charming cafés, and charming artisan boutiques. 

Wandering its lanes feels like stepping back in time; stop for lunch at a local bistro, enjoy the Rhône-Alpine ambiance, or simply people-watch in quaint squares. It’s the perfect blend of culture, calm, and architectural marvel — an easy day trip accessible from Paris. 

10. Rouen

Rouen wears its history proudly, with a dramatic medieval heart just a short train ride from Paris. At its centre stands the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, whose façade was famously captured by Claude Monet in a series of paintings exploring light and season.

Strolling the old town, you’ll find half-timbered houses, winding alleys, and the atmospheric Old Market Square — where Joan of Arc met her tragic fate. 

Museum lovers will enjoy Rouen’s fine art collections and intriguing local history exhibits, while foodies can indulge in classic Norman cuisine like teurgoule rice pudding or cider-braised dishes at traditional restaurants. A day here feels like stepping into a living tapestry of French heritage. 

11. Reims 

For a day of both refinement and celebration, head to the elegant city of Reims in the heart of the Champagne region. Just 45 minutes from Paris by TGV, Reims was once the coronation city of French kings — a legacy you can see in its stunning Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, a soaring Gothic masterpiece adorned with intricately sculpted portals. 

No visit here is complete without tasting the region’s famed effervescent wine. Many of the city’s historic champagne houses offer cellar tours and tastings, giving you a deeper appreciation for how this iconic drink is crafted. Pair your bubbles with lunch at a cozy brasserie, and wander the elegant streets before returning to Paris. 

12. Chantilly 

Just north of Paris, the refined town of Chantilly feels like something out of a storybook. Dominated by the elegant Château de Chantilly, this château is surrounded by manicured gardens and home to the impressive Musée Condé, boasting one of France’s finest art collections after the Louvre. 

Chantilly is also famed for its equestrian culture — the Living Museum of the Horse is a delightful stop, celebrating centuries of horsemanship. Before leaving, be sure to sample the town’s sweetest export: the heavenly Crème Chantilly(whipped cream), traditionally served atop local specialties. 

13. Auvers-sur-Oise 

For art lovers craving a quieter vibe, Auvers-sur-Oise — about an hour from Paris — is a dream. This peaceful village was where Vincent van Gogh spent his final months and where many of his late masterpieces were painted. Wander through fields and riverside paths that still resemble the landscapes captured in his vivid brushwork, and visit the Maison de Van Gogh to see the room where he lived and worked. 

Art from his contemporaries and small local museums help contextualize the creative ferment of the era. The town’s calm streets and charming cafés make it an especially moving place for a reflective, art-infused day trip. 

14. Orléans 

Orléans is an elegant Loire-River city known for its beautiful riverside walks and deep historical roots. This is where Joan of Arc famously liberated the city from siege in 1429 — history that’s celebrated in monuments and museums throughout the centre. 

Stroll through its atmospheric streets, visit the impressive cathedral of Sainte-Croix, and enjoy lunch overlooking the flowing Loire. With its blend of grandeur and approachable ambience, Orléans makes for a satisfying cultural day trip from Paris. 

15. Lille 

If you’re up for a slightly longer journey, the dynamic city of Lille is just under one hour by train and offers an energetic contrast to Paris’ classical elegance. Its old town (Vieux Lille) is a delight of narrow streets, ornate Flemish-style buildings, and chic boutiques.

Museums like the Palais des Beaux-Arts house impressive art collections rivaling those of larger French cities, and lively cafés and bistros line the squares perfect for people-watching. 

Lille’s cosmopolitan mix of French and Flemish influences gives it a unique character, making it an entirely different kind of day trip — one filled with modern culture, great food, and historic charm just a quick train ride away. 

This is also home to some of the best Christmas Markets to visit, so definitely enjoy a day trip from Paris here during the festive season.

Travel around France

Luckily, getting around France is easy due to the excellent train network that runs across the country. We got to know the system well while pet sitting in Paris but your best friend for day trips are the high-speed trains as you can cover great distances in a short space of time.

The two main types of train are the high-speed TGV (Train a Grande Vitesse) to major cities and RER (Regional Express Network) to more local destinations. Booking early is highly advisable as you can get some great deals and will always be cheaper than purchasing on the day.

Traveling around France is a pleasure and whether you’re on the train or driving you can expect to see the stunning countryside along the way.

Things to Know Before You go to France

Day Trips from Paris – FAQ