Last Updated on May 15, 2025 by April Nicole

You think Paris is amazing? Wait until you see what’s just beyond the city limits! Some of France’s most breathtaking destinations are just a short train ride away, making day trips from Paris, France an easy and unforgettable way to explore beyond the city. As someone who has lived in Paris for years, I’ve made it my mission to discover the best spots—from fairytale castles and medieval towns to vineyard-covered countryside and coastal escapes.

If you’re wondering where to go beyond Paris, this guide will take you to the top destinations that are perfect for a quick getaway. Whether you’re craving a history-packed adventure, a relaxing escape, or a foodie experience, I’ll share insider tips, travel times, and must-see highlights to help you plan the perfect day trip. Let’s escape the city for a day and uncover the best-kept secrets just outside of Paris!

Psst! This blog post about contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy. Merci!

day trips from paris

If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of day trips from Paris:

day trips from paris

🚆 ✨ Best Day Trips from Paris ✨🇫🇷

Looking to escape the city? These amazing day trips from Paris will take you to fairytale castles, vineyards, and charming towns:

• 🏰 Versailles – Step inside France’s most legendary royal palace.
• 🎨 Giverny – Walk through Monet’s dreamy gardens and see the house that inspired his water lilies.
• 🍷 Champagne Region – Taste real Champagne straight from the vineyards in Reims and Épernay.
• 🏰 Loire Valley Castles – Explore magical châteaux like Chambord and Chenonceau.
• 🌊 Mont Saint-Michel – Visit the UNESCO-listed island abbey that rises from the sea like a fairytale.

💡 Pro Tip: If you’re short on time, Versailles, Reims, and Chartres are the quickest and easiest day trips from Paris (less than an hour by train!).

16 Best Day Trips from Paris for Every Type of Traveler

day trips from paris france

1. Versailles – The Palace of Versailles

• 💡 Why Visit? The first time I stepped into the Hall of Mirrors, I was completely in awe—the entire room glowed as sunlight bounced off 357 mirrors, chandeliers, and gold leaf décor. I could almost hear the echoes of Louis XIV’s extravagant court life. But my favorite part? Exploring Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet—a storybook village hidden within the gardens. Most visitors never make it there, but it’s easily the most peaceful and magical part of Versailles!
• 🚆 How to Get There: RER C train (40 min). Upon arrival at the Versailles Château-Rive Gauche station, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the palace entrance. It’s advisable to purchase tickets in advance to avoid long queues, especially during peak tourist seasons.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Hall of Mirrors: A stunning 73-meter-long gallery adorned with 357 mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and gold leaf decor, where historic events, including the Treaty of Versailles, were signed.
  • Royal Gardens: Designed by André Le Nôtre, these gardens feature meticulously manicured lawns, elaborate fountains, and classical statues, making them a paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike.
  • Grand Trianon & Petit Trianon: Two exquisite palaces within the estate where French royalty sought privacy away from the grandeur of the main palace.
  • Musical Fountains Show: If you visit on weekends from April to October, you can witness the famous Musical Fountains Show, where the fountains dance to classical music, recreating the splendor of the 17th century.

💡 Personal Tip: My first visit to Versailles was magical—but also overwhelming! I made the mistake of arriving midday, and the security line stretched longer than the Hall of Mirrors itself. The next time, I got there at 9 AM sharp, and it completely changed my experience—I had time to explore the gardens before the crowds arrived.

🍽 Local Food Tip: If you’re hungry after your visit, skip the expensive palace cafés and head to La Petite Venise, an Italian-style restaurant tucked away in the gardens—it’s a hidden gem!

2. Giverny – Monet’s Garden & Home

• 💡 Why Visit? As soon as I stepped into Monet’s gardens, I felt like I was inside one of his paintings. The water lilies, the delicate Japanese bridge, the bursts of wildflowers—it was as if the entire landscape was a living masterpiece. I sat by the pond for a while, just watching the light dance on the water, and understood why Monet painted this place over and over again.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train to Vernon + shuttle (1 hr). From Vernon, shuttle buses, rental bikes, or even scenic walking paths will take you to the gardens in Giverny.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Monet’s Pink House: A beautifully preserved home filled with Monet’s personal belongings, offering insight into his daily life.
  • Japanese Bridge & Water Lily Pond: The instantly recognizable setting for his famous paintings, featuring serene reflections of weeping willows and vibrant water lilies.
  • Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny: A small but impressive museum showcasing Impressionist works and the influence of Monet’s artistic circle.

🎨 Insider Tip: To see Monet’s water lilies at their best, visit between 10 AM and 2 PM when the light hits the pond just right—it’s pure magic!

🚲 Hidden Gem: Instead of taking the shuttle from Vernon, rent a bike and cycle through the countryside. The ride is scenic and takes you past charming farms and fields of flowers.

🥂 Local Tip: Just outside Giverny, Domaine de la Corniche has a fantastic terrace overlooking the river for a post-tour drink!

day trips from paris france

3. Reims – Champagne Capital

• 💡 Why Visit? I always thought Champagne was just a drink—until I visited Reims. Walking through the cool underground cellars of Veuve Clicquot, I realized that every bottle has a story, some aging for decades before being opened. When I finally had my first sip of real Champagne straight from the source, I understood why people travel across the world for this experience. If you love wine, history, or just celebrating life, Reims is the place to be.
• 🚆 How to Get There: TGV train (45 min). The train ride from Paris is quick and convenient, dropping you off at Reims’ main station, from where you can easily walk or take a short taxi ride to major attractions.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Champagne Cellars: Visit world-famous Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery for guided tastings and underground cellar tours that reveal the intricate process of Champagne-making.
  • Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning cathedral is where French kings were crowned for nearly 1,000 years. Marvel at its incredible stained glass windows and towering Gothic facade.
  • Palace of Tau: A historic residence for the French monarchy, now a museum showcasing coronation artifacts, tapestries, and royal treasures.

🍰 Food Tip: Reims’ famous biscuits roses (pink biscuits) are made to be dipped in Champagne. You can buy an authentic box at Maison Fossier, the original bakery that invented them! Also try, hearty dishes like Jambon de Reims (Reims-style ham).

day trips from paris france

4. Rouen – Medieval Charm & Joan of Arc

• Why visit? A Paris day trip full of history, Gothic architecture, and charming streets. Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is best known for its half-timbered houses, medieval streets, and strong historical connection to Joan of Arc. The city boasts a vibrant cultural scene, bustling markets, and a rich past that dates back to Roman times. Rouen’s historic center is an open-air museum, offering a glimpse into France’s medieval heritage.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (1.5 hrs). Rouen is easily accessible from Paris via SNCF trains, with frequent departures from Gare Saint-Lazare. Upon arrival at Rouen-Rive-Droite station, the city’s main attractions are just a short walk away.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Rouen Cathedral: A stunning Gothic masterpiece that inspired Claude Monet, featuring intricate facades and towering spires. It was also the burial site of Richard the Lionheart’s heart.
  • Old Market Square: The historic location where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. The square is now home to the modern Church of Saint Joan of Arc, which stands as a tribute to the French heroine. Standing in the exact spot where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake gave me chills—it’s an incredibly powerful and historic place.
  • Gros-Horloge: A Renaissance-era astronomical clock that is one of the oldest in France, located on a picturesque pedestrian street.
  • Rue du Gros-Horloge: One of the most famous streets in Rouen, lined with boutiques, cafes, and historical buildings, perfect for strolling and taking in the medieval atmosphere.
  • Local Cuisine: Try Normandy specialties like duck à la rouennaise, apple tarts, and fresh seafood, or visit a traditional crêperie for an authentic experience. Pair your meal with Normandy cider, best found at Les Maraîchers, a cozy brasserie near the market!

🕰 Hidden Gem: Near the Gros-Horloge (astronomical clock), there’s a charming bookshop called L’Armitière that specializes in medieval history books and local Normandy folklore.

5. Chartres – A UNESCO Gothic Gem

• Why visit? Home to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France, Chartres is a must-see for lovers of medieval architecture and history. This charming town is known for its well-preserved old quarter, vibrant local markets, and impressive religious heritage. It offers visitors a quieter, more authentic French experience compared to bustling Paris, making it perfect for a peaceful getaway.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (1 hr). Trains depart frequently from Gare Montparnasse, arriving at Chartres station, which is just a 10-minute walk from the cathedral and town center.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Chartres Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this stunning Gothic cathedral dates back to the 12th century and is famous for its elaborate sculptures, flying buttresses, and magnificent stained glass windows, some of which are over 800 years old.
  • Charming Old Town: Wander through the historic streets lined with half-timbered houses, boutique shops, and cozy cafés offering delicious French pastries.
  • Illuminations of Chartres: If visiting in the evening, don’t miss the spectacular Chartres en Lumières, a light and sound show that brings the town’s monuments to life through stunning projections.

💡 Insider Tip: Visit just before sunset to see the stunning light change through the cathedral’s stained glass—it’s an unforgettable experience!

🏡 Hidden Gem: For a unique stop, check out Maison Picassiette, a house covered entirely in colorful mosaics made from broken glass and pottery—it’s a true work of outsider art!

🧀 Local Tip: Chartres’ local cheese, Pavé de Chartres, pairs perfectly with a glass of Loire Valley wine—you can find both at the weekly market near the cathedral.

day trips from paris france

6. Château de Chantilly – A Fairytale Castle

• 💡 Why Visit? The moment I saw Château de Chantilly reflected in the lake, I knew I had discovered a hidden gem. Unlike Versailles, this castle felt more peaceful—almost like a secret retreat for royalty. But what surprised me most? The horse ballet performance at the Great Stables! It was like watching equestrian Cirque du Soleil, something I had never seen before. If you want a fairytale escape without the Versailles crowds, this is the place.
• 🚆 How to Get There: 50-min drive or train. Trains from Gare du Nord reach Chantilly-Gouvieux station in about 25 minutes, followed by a 20-minute walk to the château. Alternatively, shuttle buses and taxis are available.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Château de Chantilly: A stunning Renaissance château filled with lavish interiors, intricate tapestries, and an exquisite library containing rare manuscripts.
  • Musée Condé: A world-class art museum inside the château, featuring an impressive collection of over 800 paintings, second only to the Louvre in France.
  • French Gardens: Designed by André Le Nôtre, the same landscape architect who created the gardens of Versailles, these beautifully manicured grounds include elegant fountains, canals, and classical sculptures.
  • The Great Stables & Horse Museum: One of the most remarkable equestrian sites in the world, housing the Living Museum of the Horse, where visitors can learn about equestrian history and watch live dressage performances.
  • Horse Racing at Chantilly Racecourse: A paradise for horse lovers, the historic Chantilly Racecourse hosts prestigious horse racing events, including the Prix de Diane (French Oaks).
  • Scenic Walks & Boat Rides: Stroll along the serene parklands or take a boat ride through the Grand Canal, enjoying breathtaking views of the château reflected in the water.

🎠 Insider Experience: If you love horses, check out the daily equestrian performances at the Great Stables—it’s like a mini Cirque du Soleil with horses!

🍰 Hidden Gem: Don’t leave without tasting real Chantilly cream at the château’s tearoom. It’s freshly whipped and unlike anything you’ve ever had before!

day trips from paris france

7. Fontainebleau – Royal Forest & Château

• 💡 Why Visit? I came for the château, but I fell in love with the Fontainebleau Forest. After admiring Napoleon’s throne room and the lavish royal apartments, I took a walk through the ancient oak trees, where French kings used to hunt. The entire experience felt like discovering a secret royal hideaway, away from the chaos of Paris.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (40 min). Trains from Gare de Lyon run frequently to Fontainebleau-Avon station, followed by a 15-minute bus ride or a short taxi ride to the château. Renting a bike for a scenic ride through the forest is also an option.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Château de Fontainebleau: A sprawling palace featuring frescoed galleries, lavish apartments, and opulent ballrooms that showcase centuries of French royalty.
  • The Napoleon Museum: Home to a fascinating collection of Napoleon’s belongings, including his throne and personal artifacts, offering a deeper insight into his reign.
  • Gardens & Grand Parterre: Designed by André Le Nôtre, the landscape architect behind Versailles, these elegant French-style gardens are perfect for a scenic stroll.
  • Horse Riding & Outdoor Activities: Fontainebleau offers equestrian activities, boat rides on the château’s canal, and picnicking spots for a relaxing day outdoors.

📚 Hidden Gem: Inside the château’s library, there’s a secret passage that Napoleon used—ask the guides about it!

🥖 Local Food Tip: Grab a picnic from the town’s bakery and eat by the château’s lake—local specialty pain d’épices (spiced bread) is a must-try!

8. Amiens – Floating Gardens & Gothic Cathedral

• Why visit? Perfect for a Paris weekend trip, Amiens is a city rich in history, art, and nature. Often called the ‘Venice of the North,’ it is known for its scenic canals, stunning Gothic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Amiens also played a significant role in World War I, making it a meaningful stop for history enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy a mix of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and a thriving gastronomic scene.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (1 hr). Take the SNCF train from Gare du Nord to Amiens station, from which the main attractions are easily accessible on foot.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Amiens Cathedral: The largest Gothic cathedral in France and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its intricate facade, soaring vaulted ceilings, and remarkable stained-glass windows make it a must-see. During the summer and winter months, a spectacular light show illuminates the cathedral, recreating how it looked in medieval times.
  • Hortillonnages (Floating Gardens): A unique network of waterways and floating gardens stretching over 300 hectares, best explored by a guided boat tour. These historic gardens, originally cultivated in the Middle Ages, are now a beautiful and peaceful retreat for visitors.
  • Maison de Jules Verne: Visit the former home of Jules Verne, one of France’s most famous authors. The house is now a museum showcasing his life, literary works, and inventions that inspired many of his stories.
  • Memorial Sites & WWI Battlefields: Amiens is close to Somme battlefields, where significant World War I battles took place. History buffs can visit Beaumont-Hamel Newfoundland Memorial, Thiepval Memorial, and the Australian National Memorial to learn more about the region’s wartime history.

9. Lille – A Lively Northern City

• 💡 Why Visit? The first thing I noticed about Lille? The vibrant energy. It’s a city that feels part French, part Belgian, and 100% alive. The main square was buzzing with students, artists, and street performers, and I couldn’t resist stopping at Méert, a historic pastry shop, for one of their legendary vanilla-filled waffles. By the end of the day, I realized Lille isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience.
• 🚆 How to Get There: TGV train (1 hr). Lille is easily accessible from Gare du Nord, and the Lille Europe station is located just a short walk from the city center.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Grand Place: The heart of Lille, surrounded by stunning Flemish-style buildings, lively cafés, and historic landmarks like the Old Stock Exchange.
  • Palais des Beaux-Arts: France’s second-largest fine arts museum after the Louvre, housing masterpieces by Rubens, Rembrandt, Goya, and more.
  • Citadel of Lille: A 17th-century fortress designed by Vauban, surrounded by beautiful parks perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.
  • Rue de Bethune & Euralille: A mix of historic streets and modern shopping centers, ideal for a bit of retail therapy.
  • Lille Christmas Market: If visiting in winter, the Christmas market in Place Rihour is a must-see, with festive lights, artisan crafts, and mulled wine.

📍 Hidden Gem: Walk through the old stock exchange courtyard, where locals play chess and sell rare books!

🥮 Local Cuisine: Try Maroilles cheese, carbonnade flamande (Flemish beef stew), and Lille’s famous waffles from Méert, a historic patisserie dating back to 1761.

day trips from paris france

10. Orléans – Joan of Arc’s City

• Why visit? A France itinerary highlight for history lovers, Orléans is best known for its connection to Joan of Arc, the French heroine who played a pivotal role in the Hundred Years’ War. This charming city along the Loire River is filled with medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and fascinating museums that bring history to life. Orléans also boasts a thriving food scene, scenic riverfront views, and a lively cultural atmosphere that makes it an ideal day trip from Paris.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (1 hr). Departing from Gare d’Austerlitz, direct trains take about an hour, and the main attractions are easily walkable from Orléans train station.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Orléans Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Croix): A stunning Gothic cathedral where Joan of Arc attended mass, featuring impressive stained-glass windows depicting her life.
  • Maison de Jeanne d’Arc: A reconstructed 15th-century house that serves as a museum detailing Joan of Arc’s history and her role in liberating Orléans from English rule.
  • Loire River Views & Walks: The scenic Loire River banks are perfect for a peaceful stroll, offering beautiful sunset views and picnic spots.
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts d’Orléans: A must-visit for art lovers, this museum houses an extensive collection of French and European paintings from the Renaissance to the 20th century.
  • Fêtes Johanniques (Joan of Arc Festival): If visiting in early May, experience this grand annual festival celebrating Joan of Arc’s victory, featuring medieval reenactments, parades, and fireworks.

🍰 Local Cuisine: Try regional specialties like rillettes d’Orléans (pork spread), tarte tatin (caramelized apple tart), and Loire Valley wines.

11. Troyes – Half-Timbered Beauty

• Why visit? A grad trip destination with medieval charm, Troyes is a beautifully preserved city that feels like stepping back in time. With its cobbled streets, colorful half-timbered houses, and vibrant historical atmosphere, Troyes is one of the most picturesque medieval towns in France. Beyond its architectural beauty, it is also known for its rich textile heritage, being historically one of the centers of France’s fabric and lace-making industries.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (1.5 hrs). Departing from Gare de l’Est, the direct train ride is smooth, and the station is just a short walk from the city’s main attractions.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Old Town (Bouchon de Champagne): The historic center is shaped like a champagne cork and is filled with narrow alleyways, vibrant facades, and charming shops.
  • Église Sainte-Madeleine: One of the oldest churches in Troyes, featuring an intricately carved wooden rood screen and stunning stained-glass windows.
  • Musée d’Art Moderne: Located in a former bishop’s palace, this museum boasts an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Picasso, Braque, and Derain.
  • Canal Walks & Parks: Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the Seine River as it winds through the town, offering picturesque views of historic bridges and gardens.

🍰 Local Gastronomy: Try regional delights like Andouillette de Troyes (a traditional pork sausage), Chaource cheese, and Prunelle de Troyes (a local liqueur).

12. Dijon – Wine & Mustard Capital

• Why visit? Ideal for travel in France, featuring Burgundy wines and gourmet food. Dijon, the capital of the Burgundy region, is famous for its world-class vineyards, historic architecture, and culinary excellence. It is an essential destination for wine lovers, offering access to some of the best Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines in the world. Beyond its gastronomy, Dijon boasts a well-preserved medieval center, fascinating museums, and a rich cultural scene.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train from Paris (1.5 hrs). Take the TGV from Gare de Lyon to Dijon-Ville, and from there, the main attractions are within walking distance.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Wine Tastings & Burgundy Vineyards: Dijon is a gateway to the Route des Grands Crus, a scenic wine trail through some of the most prestigious vineyards in Burgundy. Many local wine cellars offer tastings of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
  • Mustard Shops & Tasting Experiences: Dijon is synonymous with its famous Dijon mustard, and visitors can sample artisanal mustards at shops like Maison Maille and Fallot Mustard Mill.
  • Owl’s Trail (Le Parcours de la Chouette): A self-guided walking tour through Dijon’s historic center, featuring 22 key landmarks, including the Ducal Palace, medieval half-timbered houses, and the Church of Notre-Dame. Follow the bronze owl markers to explore the city’s best sights.
  • Les Halles Market: A bustling covered market designed by Gustave Eiffel, where visitors can sample local delicacies such as escargots, Burgundy truffles, and gougères (cheese puffs).
  • Notre-Dame de Dijon: A Gothic church with the famous Owl of Dijon carved into its facade. Legend has it that if you touch the owl with your left hand while making a wish, your wish will come true.
  • Fêtes de la Vigne (Vine Festival): If visiting in late summer, enjoy this lively festival celebrating Burgundy’s wine heritage with parades, traditional music, and tastings.

🍰 Local Cuisine: In addition to mustard, Dijon is known for its coq au vin (chicken stewed in Burgundy wine), boeuf bourguignon (beef Burgundy), and crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur), which is used to make the famous Kir cocktail.

13. Étretat – Breathtaking Cliffs

• Why visit? One of the best day trip ideas for nature lovers, Étretat is famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs, natural rock formations, and stunning seaside views along the Normandy coast. A favorite destination for artists, writers, and photographers, Étretat has been immortalized in the works of Claude Monet and Gustave Courbet, making it a must-visit spot for both nature and art lovers. The town also offers charming streets, fresh seafood, and a peaceful coastal atmosphere.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train + bus (2.5 hrs total). Take the train from Paris to Le Havre or Bréauté-Beuzeville, then connect with a local bus to Étretat. Alternatively, renting a car provides flexibility and allows you to explore more of the scenic Normandy coastline.
• ✨Highlights:
  • White Cliffs & Rock Formations: Marvel at the famous chalk cliffs, including the Falaise d’Aval, Falaise d’Amont, and the iconic natural arch known as the Porte d’Aval.
  • Needle Rock (L’Aiguille): A striking 70-meter-high rock formation jutting out of the sea, famously featured in paintings and literature.
  • Hiking Trails & Panoramic Views: Take the Sentier des Douaniers (Customs Path), a scenic coastal hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the cliffs and ocean.
  • Chapelle Notre-Dame de la Garde: A small chapel perched atop the cliffs, offering one of the best viewpoints in Étretat.
  • Jardins d’Étretat: A beautifully landscaped cliffside garden blending nature and contemporary art, with sculpted hedges and panoramic viewpoints.
  • Sunset Views: Étretat is particularly magical at sunset when the cliffs glow in the evening light, creating an unforgettable scenic experience.

🍰 Local Cuisine: Try delicious local specialties such as fresh oysters, mussels, and creamy Normandy cheeses in the town’s charming restaurants.

📸 Photography Tip: Go at sunrise or sunset for the best lighting on the cliffs—the colors are breathtaking!

14. Mont Saint-Michel – A Fairytale Island

• 💡 Why Visit? Mont Saint-Michel is pure magic. I arrived late in the evening when the crowds had left, and as I walked through the empty cobblestone streets, lit only by lanterns, I felt like I had traveled back in time. Seeing the abbey rise above the mist in the morning? That’s a sight I’ll never forget.
• 🚆 How to Get There: Train + bus (3.5 hrs total). Take a TGV train from Paris to Rennes (2 hours), followed by a shuttle bus (1.5 hours) to Mont Saint-Michel. For a more convenient option, guided day tours from Paris are available, often including transportation and expert commentary.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel: A magnificent Benedictine abbey dating back to the 10th century, featuring Gothic spires, cloisters, and panoramic views of the bay.
  • Tide Views & Bay Walks: Experience the famous tidal phenomenon, where the sea quickly rises around the island, cutting it off from the mainland. Guided walking tours of the bay allow visitors to explore its unique quicksand areas and marine life.
  • Sunrise & Sunset Views: Capture breathtaking golden-hour views, especially at sunrise when the island is bathed in soft, warm light.

🌊 Insider Tip: To see the island at its most magical, stay overnight—by dusk, the day-trip crowds are gone, and you’ll have the cobblestone streets almost to yourself!

🍰 La Mère Poulard Omelet: Try the famous fluffy soufflé-style omelet, a specialty of Mont Saint-Michel, prepared using a traditional 19th-century recipe.

15. Colmar – Storybook Alsace Town

• 💡 Why Visit? Colmar looks like something out of a Disney fairytale. The pastel-colored houses, flower-filled canals, and charming cafés made me feel like I was inside a postcard. I took a boat ride through Little Venice, and it was easily one of the most romantic experiences I’ve had in France.
• 🚆 How to Get There: TGV train (2.5 hrs). Take the TGV from Gare de l’Est in Paris to Colmar station. The town’s center is a short walk from the station, making it an easily accessible and walkable destination.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Little Venice: The most famous district in Colmar, featuring picturesque canals, charming waterfront cafés, and wooden boats offering scenic cruises through the town’s idyllic waterways.
  • Alsatian Wines: Colmar is known as the capital of Alsace wine country, offering fantastic wine tastings of Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris at local vineyards and wine cellars.
  • Unterlinden Museum: One of the most significant museums in the region, home to the famous Isenheim Altarpiece and an impressive collection of medieval and Renaissance artwork.
  • Maison Pfister: A beautiful 16th-century house with a storybook façade, combining medieval and Renaissance architectural styles.
  • Christmas Markets: If visiting in winter, Colmar transforms into a magical Christmas village, with festive lights, wooden chalets, and a cozy holiday atmosphere.

🍰 Local Cuisine: Enjoy traditional Alsace cuisine, including flammekueche (Alsatian-style pizza), choucroute (sauerkraut with sausages), and baeckeoffe (a slow-cooked meat and potato dish).

16. Strasbourg – A Blend of French & German Culture

• 💡 Why Visit? Strasbourg is where France and Germany meet in the most beautiful way. One moment I was drinking a stein of beer in a German-style tavern, the next I was admiring French Gothic architecture. And if you visit during Christmas, the entire city turns into a magical winter wonderland!
• 🚆 How to Get There: TGV train (2 hrs). Take the high-speed TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg, with a journey time of around 2 hours. The train station is centrally located, making it easy to explore the city on foot or by tram.
• ✨Highlights:
  • Strasbourg Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg): A magnificent Gothic masterpiece with one of the tallest spires in Europe, featuring intricate stained glass windows and an astronomical clock that puts on a mesmerizing show at noon.
  • Petite France: The most charming district of Strasbourg, lined with half-timbered houses, flower-filled canals, and quaint bridges, perfect for a scenic stroll or a meal at a traditional Alsatian restaurant.
  • Boat Tours on the Ill River: See Strasbourg from a unique perspective by taking a canal boat tour, passing by landmarks like the European Parliament, Ponts Couverts, and the historic center.
  • Covered Bridges & Vauban Dam: A historic defense structure offering panoramic views of the old town, making for a perfect photo opportunity.

2 Hidden Gems for Unique Day Trips from Paris

1. Provins – A Medieval Town Frozen in Time

🕰 Why Visit? If you want to step back into medieval France, Provins is the perfect destination. This UNESCO-listed town is famous for its well-preserved city walls, underground tunnels, and medieval festivals. It’s less touristy than other historical sites and gives visitors an authentic glimpse of France’s medieval past.

🚆 How to Get There: Direct SNCF train from Gare de l’Est (1.5 hrs).

✨ Highlights:

• 🏰 The Ramparts – Walk along medieval city walls with panoramic views.
• 🌹 Rose Gardens & Rose Jam – The town is known for its fragrant rose-based products.
• ⚔️ Medieval Shows – In summer, catch knight tournaments & falconry displays.
• 🕵️ Underground Tunnels – Explore mysterious tunnels once used by merchants.
• 🍷 Local Specialty: Try Rose Petal Syrup in a traditional crêperie.

💡 Insider Tip: Visit in June for the Provins Medieval Festival, where the entire town transforms into a real-life medieval fair with costumes, tournaments, and feasts.

2. Vaux-le-Vicomte – Versailles’ Forgotten Rival

🕰 Why Visit?
If you love Versailles but want fewer crowds, visit Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, the grand estate that inspired Versailles! The gardens were designed by the same architect as Versailles, and the interiors are just as lavish.

🚆 How to Get There: Train from Gare de Lyon to Melun (35 min), then a 15-min taxi or shuttle.

✨ Highlights:

• 🏰 Lavish 17th-century palace with stunning architecture.
• 🌳 Perfectly manicured gardens, similar to Versailles but more peaceful.
• 🕯 Candlelit Evenings – From May to October, the château is illuminated by 2,000 candles at night!
• 🎭 Costume Rentals – Rent 17th-century outfits for a royal photoshoot.
• 🍽 Local Food: Have lunch at L’Écureuil, a charming restaurant inside the estate.

💡 Pro Tip: Visit at sunset for the most magical experience!

Travel Tips for Day Trips from Paris

• Book train tickets in advance for France train travel to ensure availability and better prices. Consider using the SNCF Connect app to check schedules and book tickets easily.
• Use a guided tour for places like Mont Saint-Michel to maximize your time and gain deeper insights into historical sites. Many tours include transportation and expert guides.
• Rent a car for flexibility in the French countryside, especially for destinations like Loire Valley, Étretat, or Normandy, where train routes are limited. Be sure to check road conditions and parking availability.

Whether you love castles, wine, or history, there’s a perfect day trip from Paris for you! From the grand Palace of Versailles to the picturesque vineyards of Reims, each destination offers a unique slice of France just a short trip away. Whether you’re looking for historic towns, charming villages, or breathtaking natural wonders, there’s something for every traveler.

📌 Which of these day trips are you most excited about? Have you been to any of them? Let me know in the comments!