Getaway to the City of Love: Paris Day Trips (Must See)

Last Modified:
December 4, 2023

Reading Time: 12 minutes

Paris is a city that has captured the hearts of people around the world for centuries. Its stunning architecture, world-renowned museums, and romantic atmosphere have made it a top destination for tourists from all over the globe.

Paris is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world, but sometimes you need a break from the city lights and urban hustle. Luckily, there are plenty of day trip options from Paris that are easily accessible and offer a unique glimpse into French history, culture, and nature.

1. Park in the 3rd Arrondissement of Paris

Whether you’re interested in history, art, or just want to experience a change of pace, there’s a Paris day trip that’s perfect for you. From the opulent Palace of Versailles to the picturesque town of Giverny, where Monet lived and painted for many years, there’s no shortage of destinations to choose from. You can also take a trip to the Champagne region to sample some of the finest bubbly in the world or visit the battlefields of Normandy to pay your respects to the soldiers who fought and died there during World War II.

Many of these day trips are easily accessible by train, which makes them perfect for travellers who don’t want to rent a car or deal with the stress of driving in a foreign country. Simply hop on the train, sit back, and enjoy the scenic journey through the French countryside. Others may require a bit more planning and preparation, but the effort is well worth it when you arrive at your destination.

So, if you’re planning a trip to Paris and want to explore more of what France has to offer, be sure to consider taking a day trip. Let us help you choose from so many incredible destinations, you sure will find something that will make your trip even more memorable.

Paris Day trips by Train

Paris is a great home base for day trips throughout France, and the train is an easy and efficient way to get around. There are several day trip options that are easily accessible by train, allowing you to explore beyond the city limits. Run by the SNCF, you can book your tickets online at oui.sncf in advance or purchase them from a kiosk in the station. Here are a few great day trips from Paris by train:

2. A row of yellow chairs in a train station; Paris, France

Versailles

Versailles is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Paris, and it’s easy to reach by train. You can take the RER C line from Paris to the Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche station, which takes about 45 minutes. Once you arrive, you can visit the stunning Palace of Versailles, the grand gardens, and the Marie Antoinette Estate. It’s a perfect day trip for history buffs and those who appreciate stunning architecture and gardens.

To reach Versailles Château – Rive Gauche, take the RER C train, and from there, it’s just a ten-minute walk to the palace. The palace is open every day except Mondays and May 1, from 9:00 to 18:30. To ensure your spot, you can book tickets ahead of time from here. Additionally, if you’re under 25 years old and an EU citizen (or a resident of the EU), you can enjoy free admission to the palace.

Giverny

Another great day trip option is to visit the charming town of Giverny, the former home of the famous artist Claude Monet. The town is located about 75 km northwest of Paris, and you can take a train from Paris to Vernon, which takes about 50 minutes. From there, you can take a short bus or taxi ride to Giverny. Once there, you can explore Monet’s house and gardens, which served as inspiration for many of his famous paintings.

To reach Giverny from Gare Saint-Lazare, take the train to Vernon, which takes approximately an hour and costs as low as 9€. From Vernon, you have the option to either take a shuttle for 10€ or enjoy a scenic 6km walk to the gardens. The gardens are open from April 1 to November 1, every day from 9:30 to 18:00. Admission is timed, so it’s best to purchase your 13€ tickets in advance from here.

Disneyland Paris

If you’re looking for a fun day out with the family, Disneyland Paris is a must-visit destination. The park features all your favorite Disney characters and rides, as well as plenty of restaurants and shops. You can easily reach Disneyland Paris by train or car. Thankfully, it’s easily accessible by train, making it a convenient and stress-free option for travelers.

To get to Disneyland Paris by train, you’ll need to take the RER A train to Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station. The RER A train departs from several stations in central Paris, so you can choose the one that’s most convenient for you. Once you arrive at Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station, simply follow the signs to the park entrance. You’ll be transported to a magical world filled with thrilling rides, live shows, parades, and delicious food. Tickets are required in advance, purchase them here.

Rouen

For a day trip that combines history, culture, and stunning scenery, head to the city of Rouen, located about 1.5 hours northwest of Paris by train. This city is known for its stunning Gothic architecture, including the famous Rouen Cathedral, as well as its connections to Joan of Arc. You can also explore the charming streets, art museums, and enjoy some delicious Norman cuisine.

To reach Rouen Rive Droite from Gare St Lazare, take the train which takes approximately 90 minutes and costs as low as 9€. Once you arrive in Rouen, you can explore its many highlights, including the iconic Gros Horloge, the stunning Cathédrale Notre Dame de Rouen, the charming Vieux Marché, and the fascinating Historial Jeanne d’Arc. These attractions offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city, making for an unforgettable day trip experience.

Chartres

You might also want to consider taking a day trip to the beautiful city of Chartres, located just over an hour southwest of Paris by train. Chartres is famous for its stunning Cathedral, which is considered one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France. You can also explore the charming old town, which is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Take a 75-minute train ride from Paris Montparnasse to Chartres for as low as 18,40€. Highlights of the trip include the Chartres Cathedral, Eure Riverside, Conservation Area, Centre International du Vitrail, Chartres en Lumières (Apr-Oct), and Maison Picassiette.

Reims

This city is known as the Champagne capital of France, and it’s located just 45 minutes by train from Paris. Reims is home to several famous Champagne houses, including Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger. You can take a tour of the Champagne houses, explore the city’s stunning Gothic cathedral, and enjoy some delicious local cuisine.

To reach Reims from Paris, you can take the train which takes approximately 45 minutes and costs as low as 9€.

Chantilly

This charming town is located just 25 minutes by train from Paris and is home to the stunning Château de Chantilly. This castle is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a large forest, making it a great place to go for a walk or a picnic. You can also visit the Museum of the Horse, which is located on the castle grounds.

To reach Chantilly from Paris, you can take the train which takes approximately 25 minutes and costs as low as 8€. The train that can be taken from Paris to Chantilly is called the TER (Transport Express Régional).

Auvers-sur-Oise

This town is located about 30 km north of Paris and is famous for its connections to Vincent Van Gogh. The artist spent the last few months of his life in Auvers-sur-Oise, and you can visit his grave and see many of the landscapes that inspired his paintings. The town also has several museums and art galleries.

To travel from Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise by train, you can take the Transilien H train from Paris Gare du Nord station. The train journey takes approximately 35 minutes and the cost of a one-way ticket starts at around €5. You can purchase tickets at the station or online in advance.

Tip: Different places have different rules and regulations, so be sure to familiarize yourself with them before heading out on your day trip. For example, some places may have restrictions on photography or require you to wear a face mask.

Paris Day trips by Car

If you’re looking for more flexibility and freedom in your day trips from Paris, renting a car is a great option. You can explore at your own pace and see more off-the-beaten-path destinations. Here are a few day trip options from Paris that are easily accessible by car:

Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a popular day trip destination from Paris, and it’s easily reachable by car. The Loire Valley is famous for its stunning chateaux and beautiful countryside, and there are many different routes you can take to explore the area. Some of the most popular chateaux include Chateau de Chambord, Chateau de Chenonceau, and Chateau de Villandry.

Provins

Another great day trip option is to visit the medieval town of Provins, located about 80 km southeast of Paris. This town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the ramparts, the underground galleries, and the Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church. You can also enjoy a medieval-style meal or see a falconry demonstration.

D-Day Beaches of Normandy

For a day trip that combines history and nature, consider visiting the D-Day Beaches of Normandy. This area played a pivotal role in World War II and is now a popular tourist destination. You can visit the beaches, the Normandy American Cemetery, and the various museums and memorials in the area. The drive from Paris takes about 3 hours, so it’s best to leave early in the morning to make the most of your day.

Champagne region

If you’re interested in exploring the Champagne region, a car is a great way to do it. The Champagne region is located about 150 km east of Paris, and you can take the A4 highway to get there. Once there, you can visit the various Champagne houses, enjoy tastings, and explore the beautiful vineyards and countryside.

Mont Saint-Michel

While this day trip requires a longer car ride (about 3.5 hours), it’s worth it. Mont Saint-Michel is a stunning island commune located off the coast of Normandy, and it’s known for its beautiful Gothic architecture and stunning views. You can take a tour of the abbey, explore the narrow streets of the town, and enjoy some delicious seafood.

Fontainebleau

This town is located about 55 km southeast of Paris and is home to the stunning Château de Fontainebleau. This castle was a favorite of Napoleon, and you can see many of his personal effects on display. The town is also known for its beautiful forest, which is a great place for a hike or a picnic.

Tip: Whether you’re traveling by train or car, make sure to use reputable transportation services. Stick to well-known companies and avoid using unlicensed or unregulated services.

Paris Day trips to other Countries

Paris is not only a fantastic destination, but it’s also a great base for exploring nearby countries. There are plenty of day trips you can take from Paris to other European countries, all accessible by train or bus.

Brussels, Belgium

One popular day trip is to Brussels, the capital of Belgium. The train journey from Paris to Brussels takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station. Brussels is famous for its delicious waffles, chocolate, and beer, as well as its beautiful architecture and charming old town. Here is a list of things to do in Brussels!

You can take the high-speed Thalys train from Paris to Brussels. The journey takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

London, United Kingdom

Another popular day trip is to London, the capital of the United Kingdom. The train journey from Paris to London takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes on the Eurostar train. London is a world-famous city with iconic attractions like Big Ben, Tower Bridge, and Buckingham Palace. You can also enjoy some of the best shopping and dining in Europe in London. Read more on things to do in London!

The quickest way to get from Paris to London is on the Eurostar train. The journey takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Bruges, Belgium

If you want to explore a smaller city, you can take a day trip to Bruges in Belgium. The train journey from Paris to Bruges takes around 3 hours and involves a transfer in Brussels. Bruges is known for its picturesque canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture.

To get to Bruges, you will need to take a train from Paris to Brussels and then transfer to a train bound for Bruges. The total journey takes around 3 hours, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

You can also take a day trip to Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands. The train journey from Paris to Amsterdam takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes on the Thalys train. Amsterdam is famous for its beautiful canals, museums, and vibrant nightlife.

You can take the high-speed Thalys train from Paris to Amsterdam. The journey takes around 3 hours and 20 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Luxembourg City, the charming capital of Luxembourg, makes for a great day trip from Paris. Once in Luxembourg City, you can explore its beautiful Old Town, admire the stunning views from the city’s many bridges and ramparts, and visit its many museums, including the National Museum of History and Art and the Musée d’Art Moderne Grand-Duc Jean. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample some of the country’s famous hearty meat stews and delicious pastries.

To get there, you can take a high-speed train from Paris to Luxembourg City. The journey takes around 2 hours, and tickets can be purchased online or at the station.

Let’s go on an adventure with Travel Diaries!

Whether you’re craving to explore the outskirts of Paris, discover more of France, or hop on a train and visit new European countries, there are plenty of amazing options for day trips from Paris. It’s always wise to plan and book your trip in advance to save money on train tickets.

But, if you decide to stay in Paris, we’re here to help with your trip. Paris is a vast city with numerous neighborhoods, and it can be daunting for first-time visitors to navigate. Make sure you know the Parts of Paris you’re visiting and what there is to see in each neighborhood.

From finding the perfect place to stay in Paris to savoring delicious Parisian treats, we’ve got you covered with all the essential tips and resources you need for your trip. So, even if Paris isn’t your first choice, check out our helpful blog posts and start planning your adventure with Travel Diaries!

FAQs

Is Paris safe to visit?

Paris is generally a safe city to visit, with a low rate of violent crime. However, like any large city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself from pickpocketing and petty theft.

Day trip in Paris, what to do?

There are plenty of options for day trips from Paris, including visiting historic sites like Versailles or exploring charming towns like Giverny or Chantilly. Some popular activities in Paris itself include visiting the Eiffel Tower, exploring the Louvre Museum, and strolling through the streets of Montmartre.

Can you do a day trip from Paris to Normandy?

Yes, it is possible to do a day trip from Paris to Normandy. The train ride from Paris to Normandy takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your destination, and there are plenty of historic sites and charming towns to explore in the region.

Why is Paris a good place to visit?

Paris is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class museums, and delicious food. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the charming cafes of Montmartre, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.

How much money do you need in Paris per day?

The cost of visiting Paris can vary depending on your travel style and budget. On average, visitors should expect to spend around €100-150 per day on accommodation, food, and activities.

How far is the Eiffel Tower from the train station?

The distance between the Eiffel Tower and the train station can vary depending on which station you are arriving at. However, the closest train station to the Eiffel Tower is the Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel station, which is located just a short walk away from the tower itself.

Is 2 days in Paris enough?

Two days in Paris is certainly not enough to see everything the city has to offer, but it is enough time to visit some of the top attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Montmartre. With careful planning and prioritizing, you can make the most out of your two days in Paris.

Is Paris cheap for tourists?

Paris can be an expensive city for tourists, but it is possible to visit on a budget. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to do, such as visiting the many public parks and gardens or exploring the vibrant street art scene. Eating at local markets or bakeries can also be an affordable way to try delicious French cuisine.

Is it cheaper to fly to Paris or get the Eurostar?

The answer to this question depends on many factors, including your departure location, time of travel, and how far in advance you book your tickets. In general, flying to Paris can sometimes be cheaper, especially if you book well in advance or find a good deal. However, taking the Eurostar can be more convenient and environmentally friendly, as it takes you directly into the heart of Paris without the hassle of airport security and transportation to the city center.

Aatika Farooqui

Aatika Farooqui, a passionate explorer and storyteller, weaves her love for travel into captivating narratives. Her words have the power to transport readers to distant lands, igniting a sense of wanderlust and curiosity. Through her evocative writing, Aatika captures the essence of each destination, sharing both the remarkable and the hidden, inspiring others to embark on their own transformative journeys.