Paris is an amazing city full of world-famous sights like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. But there are also many worthwhile day trips that allow you to get out of the big city for a little while and experience more of France. day trips from Paris
This article provides an overview of some of the best and most popular day trips from Paris, all doable in one day by train or bus. The purpose is to highlight destinations and activities within easy reach of Paris that make for a fun, convenient, and rewarding side excursion. A day trip lets you enjoy a change of scenery, learn about history and culture, and sample regional food and wine.
Day trips are a great way to add variety to your Paris vacation without the need for an overnight stay. Whether you want to see opulent palaces, stroll through impressionist gardens, or taste champagne at the source, there’s a perfect day trip from Paris awaiting you. Plan your trip well, stay connected with Alertify’s solutions, and dive into the unique experiences Paris and its surroundings have to offer.
Getting Around
Public transportation is the easiest and most affordable way to take day trips from Paris. The main options are RER trains, regional trains (TER), and buses.
The RER train system connects Paris to nearby suburbs. Lines A and B stop at major destinations like Versailles, Disneyland Paris, and Charles de Gaulle Airport. Trains run frequently, and you can buy tickets at any station. Check the RATP website for routes and schedules.
Regional TER trains go farther out from the city. Main lines run north to Rouen, east to Reims and Chantilly, south to Fontainebleau, and west to Chartres. Tickets can be purchased at stations, ticket machines, or online at SNCF. Timetables are available on the SNCF website.
Long-distance buses reach destinations not serviced by train. Flixbus and Ouibus offer routes to Provins, Auvers-sur-Oise, and more. Tickets are cheap but sell out fast. Book online in advance for the best fares and departure times.
With public transportation, day trips from Paris are easy and affordable. Conduct research online beforehand to map routes, find schedules, and buy tickets. This allows you to maximize your time exploring once you arrive.
North – Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is located just outside of Paris, to the northwest. It’s one of the most famous and opulent palaces in the world, built in the 17th century during the reign of Louis XIV.
The palace is immense, with over 2,300 rooms spread over 63,000 square meters. The sheer scale and grandeur of Versailles are awe-inspiring. As you walk through the rooms and galleries, you’ll get a sense of the extravagant lifestyle of French royalty centuries ago.
The highlights of Versailles include the Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Grand Apartment, and the Queen’s Apartments. Don’t miss seeing the expansive gardens, fountains, and pools behind the palace. The fountains feature stunning mythological water displays.
Some tips for visiting Versailles: day trips from Paris
- Arrive early, as lines can get very long, especially in the summer. Book skip-the-line tickets online if you want to avoid long waits.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking a lot.
- Allow at least half a day to see the major highlights. A full day allows you to take your time and see more of the grounds.
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Visit on weekdays if possible, as weekends draw huge crowds.
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Consider taking a guided tour for an insight into Versailles’ history and architecture that you may miss on your own.
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Pack or buy a picnic to eat in the gardens. There are not many dining options on-site.
Exploring the grand Palace of Versailles and its manicured grounds makes for an unforgettable day trip from Paris. Stroll through a place where French kings and queens once lived amidst luxury and opulence centuries ago.
West – Giverny
Located just 45 minutes by train west of Paris, the charming village of Giverny is a perfect day trip for art and garden lovers. The main attraction is Claude Monet’s House and Gardens, the beloved home and floral landscapes depicted in many of the impressionist master’s iconic paintings.
The best time to visit is from April to October, when the gardens erupt in lush colors and blooms. Monet’s flower garden encompasses the artist’s iconic water lily pond, surrounded by weeping willow trees and a Japanese footbridge. His home studio showcases replicas of the artist’s works.
Advance reservations are required for visiting Monet’s House and Gardens. Tickets cost €11 for adults and free for children under 7. Combination tickets with the Museum of Impressionism in Giverny are €17. Book well in advance online to guarantee entry, especially during the spring and summer months.
Guided tours and virtual tours are available to enhance your experience. Bike rentals provide a pleasant way to travel between the major sites. Allow at least 3 hours to fully take in the beauty of Monet’s home and gardens.
East – Chantilly
The elegant town of Chantilly, situated about 50 kilometers north of Paris, makes for an excellent and history-filled day trip from the capital. The star attraction here is the magnificent Château de Chantilly, considered one of the finest châteaux in France.
The château’s history dates back over a thousand years. The current building was constructed in the 16th century by Anne de Montmorency, a prominent nobleman close to the French kings. The château then passed through various noble families, including the Orléans, Condé, and Aumale families. Each left its mark through additions and renovations. The château’s elegant Renaissance architecture and lavish interior make it a must-see.
The estate’s jewel is the art gallery, which houses one of the finest collections of paintings outside of the Louvre. It includes works by Raphael, Botticelli, Poussin, and Ingres. The library is also exquisite, with over 1500 manuscripts and incunables.
The vast parks and gardens surrounding the château are sublime. Designed by famed landscape architect André Le Nôtre, they contain a mix of French and English styles. The gardens include grand parterres, pools, fountains, a vine garden, an Anglo-Chinese garden, and more. Walking the grounds makes for a peaceful and scenic outing.
Horse racing fans will also enjoy Chantilly for the historic Chantilly Racecourse. Dating from 1834, it hosts many of France’s most prestigious flat races, including the Prix du Jockey Club and Prix de Diane. A museum on site details the racetrack’s rich history.
With its magnificent castle, gardens, and racecourse, Chantilly offers a delightful escape from Paris full of history, nature, and sports. It makes for an easy and rewarding day trip.
South – Fontainebleau
The town of Fontainebleau and its magnificent château should not be missed on a day trip from Paris. Located just 60 kilometers south of Paris, Fontainebleau has been a favored royal residence and country retreat since the 12th century.
The primary attraction is the sprawling Fontainebleau Palace, one of the largest French royal châteaux. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to the 12th century and reached its peak magnificence in the 16th century under King François I. The palace is renowned for its historic architecture, combining medieval fortifications with early Renaissance style. Visitors can tour the grand apartments, galleries, throne room, and expansive gardens and parks surrounding the château.
Highlights of the interior include the François I gallery with intricate Renaissance decor, the Second Empire museum with opulent furnishings from the 19th century, and the royal opera house still used for performances today. The Salle de Bal boasts a spectacularly ornamented ballroom, and the royal Chapelle de la Trinité is considered a masterpiece of religious architecture. The extensive gardens and courtyards showcase elaborate fountains and greenery.
In addition to the palace, Fontainebleau has a historic town center worth exploring. Visitors can check out the remains of medieval fortifications or stroll along peaceful forest paths in the surrounding area. Allow at least 3–4 hours to tour the palace and grounds. Admission starts at €13 for adults. As a popular site, try and avoid weekends if possible. Exploring this former royal residence makes for a memorable day trip steeped in French history and regal splendor.
Northwest – Rouen day trips from Paris
Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, makes for an excellent day trip from Paris. Located on the banks of the Seine, this medieval city is home to France’s second-largest port and boasts a well-preserved historic center.
The main highlight of Rouen is its magnificent Gothic cathedral, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. Start your visit here by admiring the cathedral’s ornate facade, stained glass windows, and 115-meter iron spire. Inside, don’t miss the elaborate tomb of Richard the Lionheart.
After visiting the cathedral, take some time to wander the cobblestone streets of the old town, which are lined with timber-framed houses dating back to the 16th century. The best way to explore is to follow the signposted “Rue du Gros Horloge” walking tour, named after the Renaissance archway clock located in the center of the old town.
Along the way, you’ll pass the Place du Vieux Marché, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. An imposing modern church, Église Jeanne d’Arc, now marks the spot. The walk also takes you to the Palais de Justice, a 15th-century courthouse, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Rouen’s fine arts museum, housed in a former abbey dating from the 1300s.
Rouen offers an immersive experience of Normandy’s history and culture. With its enchanting medieval streets, impressive Gothic architecture, and excellent museums, it makes for a rewarding day trip from Paris.
Northeast – Reims
Reims, located about 80 miles northeast of Paris, is known as the champagne capital of France. It’s home to prestigious champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery, and Ruinart. Many of these champagne houses offer tours and tastings, allowing you to learn about the champagne-making process and sample different types of bubbly.
The highlight of Reims is the Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Construction on the cathedral began in 1211 and took over 100 years to complete. The cathedral has survived many wars due to its status as the traditional location for the coronation of French kings. Must-see features inside the cathedral include the 12th-century stained glass windows, the Smiling Angel statue that adorned the gallery, and the gargoyles overlooking the city.
A walking tour is a great way to see the top sites in Reims. From the cathedral, stroll to the Place Drouet d’Erlon, the lively main square lined with cafes and shops. The Musée des Beaux-Arts displays an excellent collection of fine art. Foodies will appreciate the covered food market, Les Halles du Boulingrin. For history buffs, the Porte de Mars is a well-preserved Roman triumphal arch from the 3rd century. End your walking tour back at the cathedral to admire the facade at night when it’s illuminated.
With its champagne houses, historic cathedral, and charming streets, Reims deserves a spot on your list for easy day trips from Paris.
Southeast – Provins day trips from Paris
Provins is an easy day trip by train from Paris Gare de l’Est to Provins Ville. This charming medieval fortified town is about 1.5 hours from Paris.
The main attraction in Provins is the stunningly preserved medieval architecture within the town’s ramparts. You can walk along the old city walls, climb the 12th-century donjon (Caesar Tower), and wander through the medieval lanes inside the fortifications. The upper town has winding cobblestone streets lined with restored half-timbered houses from the 12th to 15th centuries.
Don’t miss the Tithe Barn, built in the 13th century to store grain taxes owed to the local lord. The barn is nearly 200 meters long, with huge oak beams and an underground tunnel used for transporting grains. Today, it hosts a medieval marketplace and festivals.
Provins makes for a lovely escape from Paris into a quintessential French medieval town. Wander the ramparts, explore winding lanes, and absorb the history within the impressive city walls.
Southwest – Chartres day trips from Paris
Chartres, located an hour southwest of Paris, makes for an easy and rewarding day trip. Start your visit at the main attraction, the medieval Chartres Cathedral. This imposing Gothic church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains some of the most beautiful stained glass windows dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. Don’t miss the stunning blue Virgin and Child window in the south transept.
After visiting the cathedral, stroll through the quaint cobblestone streets and architecture of the old town. Pop into the covered market to sample local cheeses, breads, and wines. Stop for a relaxing lunch at one of the sidewalk cafes before heading to the Eure River for river views.
Tips for visiting Chartres:
- Come early to beat the crowds and see the cathedral in the morning light.
- Climb the north tower for panoramic views (7 euros).
- Ask the tourist office for information on guided tours or audio guides.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as there’s a lot of walking.
- Check the cathedral’s website for schedules of concerts or events.
- Give yourself at least half a day to fully experience Chartres.
With its imposing cathedral and charming old town, Chartres makes for a lovely escape from Paris for a day.