Planning a trip to France is a monumental effort; the country has amazing destinations that appeal to travelers of all kinds. Art enthusiasts, history buffs, wine connoisseurs, architecture aficionados, and culture vultures; everyone can pick and choose their favourite destinations in France. Paris is at the heart of all these experiences, and merely a day away from it are incredible destinations that offer a variety of experiences.
With grand castles, striking cathedrals, picturesque landscapes, culinary experiences, and modern theme parks, there are a lot of things to do & see on day trips from Paris. Whether you are in Paris for a couple of days or a local looking for a unique getaway, here is a guide to the best day trips from Paris for a memorable experience.
10 Best Day Trips From Paris
1Versailles
Day Trips From Paris
20 km
Distance
Visit Versailles, the provincial capital of the former Kingdom of France and home to the famous Palace of Versailles. Situated a mere hour away by road and by train, Versailles and its grand palace and gardens are one of the most popular day tour getaways for visitors to Paris. The Palace of Versailles and the surrounding estate cover a massiver 2016 acres and have something to offer for everyone - lovers of art, architecture, history, museums, war memorabilia or even a leisurely stroll the sprawling gardens.
History
The Palace of Versailles plays a significant role in French history. The home of French Kings, this day trip from Paris is a must for Francophiles and lovers of history and architecture.
Ease of access
Given the proximity, you can get to Versailles using any mode of public transport available from anywhere in Paris.
Distance
Versailles is arguably the least you need to travel to get out of Paris, situated on the outskirts and approximately 20 kms from the city center.
The Château de Versailles is located approximately 20 km (40 minutes) West of Paris. You could choose to travel from Paris to Versailles by train, bus, car or opt for a convenient guided tour that includes round trip transportation.
Bus
If you choose to travel by bus, you can take bus no. 171 from the Pont de Sèvres stop (located at the end of the metro line 9) and get dropped off at the Château de Versailles.
Train
There are three train stations in Versailles. The closest and most convenient stop is the Versailles Château Rive Gauche. Purchase a train pass from any ticket office at the metro stations and take the RER C line to get to the Versailles Château-Rive Gauche stop. The train runs every 15 minutes from Gare d’Austerlitz and costs €7 for a 40 minute trip to Versailles.
You can return to Paris by train that also departs from the same stop. The last train from Versailles Rive Gauche railway station departs at 11:55 PM.
Car
If you are driving to the Palace, the best route to take is to get on the Peripherique (the Paris beltway) and exit on the A13. However, It can get crowded, especially on summer weekends. Plan for a minimum travel time of 45 minutes. You can park your car at the metered public parking lot in front of the chateau for the duration of your visit.
The Château
The Château de Versailles is one amongst the world’s most prestigious monument, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and “Monument historique”. With over 700 rooms, the Palace of Versailles offers a sneak peek into the lives of the French monarchy’s during their most influential years. Displaying over 60,000 artwork collections, Versailles is an ode to five centuries of French History.
Marie Antoinette's Estate
To take a breather from regal affairs and matters of the court, the Kings of Versailles built themselves a few intimate spaces close to Palace park. Adjacent to the Petit Park is the estate of Trianon, home to the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon palaces, as well as the Queen’s Hamlet and a variety of ornamental gardens.
Domaine de Trianon
The Grand Trianon is a unique architectural building which King Louis XIV used as a private residence where he could spend time with Madame de Maintenon. It was originally known as the ‘Marble Trianon’ on account of the pink marble panels which adorned the palace’s elegant façades.
Gardens and Parks
The Château de Versailles is spread over 800 hectares and it's grounds are covered with sprawling gardens, musical fountains, orangeries, pattresses and more. The gardens were designed by famous architect André Le Nôtre and they are as breathtaking as the Palace itself.
Fountain Shows
Water is an important element of French gardens, even more so than plant designs and groves. Over 50 grand water fountains can be found in the gardens of Versailles. Each fountain was designed and sculpted based on themes from Greco-Roman mythology.
Palace Timings
The Versailles Palace timings are Tue-Sun between 9:00 AM - 6.30 PM during the high season (April to October) and between 9:00 AM - 5.30 PM during the low season (November to March).
The Versailles Palace is closed every Monday, 25 December and 1 January.
The Musical Fountain Shows
April 6th to October 27th - Saturdays and Sundays
May 21st to June 25th -
Tuesdays
April 19th, May 8th, May 30th, August 15th
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
The Musical Gardens Show
April 2nd to May 14th - Tuesdays
July 2nd to October 29th - Tuesdays
April 5th
to October 25th - Fridays (except April 14th)
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Paris to Versailles - Top Recommended Tours
2Disneyland Paris
Day Trips From Paris
41 km
Distance
Make your way to the magical world of Disneyland® Paris and spend your day at the two amazing theme park that make this destination one of the biggest attractions in Europe - Disneyland® Park and Walt Disney Studios® Park. Meet your favourite Disney® characters as you explore five themed sections — Fantasyland, Discoveryland, Adventureland, Frontierland, and Main Street, U.S.A.
Perfect for everyone
Spread over 4800-acres, you can spend your entire day exploring the two theme parks, a magical castle, Disney® Village, a mall and more.
Easy transport
Situated an hour away, you have tons of transport options available throughout the day from Paris and back.
Adventure
There's little in this engineered world that brings about a sense of adventure as much as the fantastical world of Disney® and it's timeless characters. Take the child within you on an adventure in Disneyland® Paris.
Disneyland® Paris is located approximately 40 km (60 minutes) east of Paris. You can travel from Paris to Disneyland by train, bus, car or opt for a convenient guided tour that includes round trip transportation.
Bus
You can take the Express Bus which includes the entry ticket for Disneyland Paris. If you're traveling from the airport, then take the Magical Shuttle Bus that runs from Paris Orly Airport and Charles de Gaulle Airport costs €23.
Train
The RER A line travels from Paris to Disneyland - starting from the Charles de Gaulle Etoile station and ending at Marne-la-Vallee/Chessy - 2 minutes from Disneyland Paris. The train runs every 15 minutes and tickets cost €15.
You can return to Paris by train that also departs from the same stop. The last train from Versailles Rive Gauche railway station departs at 11:55 PM.
Disneyland Park
You can immerse yourself in the world of Disney stories and experience the magic of fairy tales in Disneyland Park. With over 50 attractions for different age groups, you can zip through the galaxy, discover the world of pirates, brave out a haunted mansion, and go on a voyage with dolls from all over the globe while stunning colorful parades bring your favorite Disney characters to life. Stay till the evening for the unforgettable fireworks and laser displays at the magnificent Sleeping Beauty Castle.
Walt Disney Studios Park
At Walt Disney Studios Park, you can uncover behind the scene truths of the most magical Disney films and television, discover the making of special effects and animation, meet and greet your Disney friends and explore the amusement land bursting with thrill and adventure.
Disneyland Village
Disney Village is the hub of entertainment for the whole family with shopping, restaurants, live shows, music, dancing, movies, and more. The state-of-the-art Gaumont Cinema Complex has 15 screens where you an enjoy the latest releases. Disney Village also has a hot-air balloon ride, Panoramagique - allowing you a panoramic view of Disneyland Paris.
Art of Disney Animation
A cinema presentation that takes you to the inside story of Disney Animation. You will learn about the inception and legacy of Walt Disney animation with Disney Characters from all eras. Followed by an interactive session giving you a chance to pencil in some animation.
Big Thunder Mountain
This is a thrilling ride on a runaway mine train cart as it takes you on a crazy rattling ride around a haunted mountain. This wild expedition takes you through dips and sharp turns, around raging waterfalls and raving rivers, giving you a rush of excitement. It has a height restriction of 1.02m.
Disneyland® Park: 10:00 AM to 07:30 PM
Walt Disney Studios® Park: 10:00 AM to 07:30 PM
Paris To Disneyland® - Top Guided Tours
3Giverny
Day Trips From Paris
75 km
Distance
Take a trip back in time as you travel to the quaint contryside of Giverny and experience the world of Claude Monet - the founder of French Impressionist painting. Stroll through the lush gardens that inspired some of his most famous works and visit his pink-plastered home in Giverny. The town also offers an ode to Monet through the Musée des impressionnismes (Giverny Museum of Impressionisms), which promotes and displays works of other Impressionist artists and conducts regular workshops and classes.
Mecca of Impressionism
Impressionist painters and art enthusiasts from around the world make a pilgrimage to Giverny to see the water lily ponds, the gardens and the landscapes of Giverny that gave birth to the movement.
Monet's Home
Monet’s private apartment has been carefully laid out with the original furniture that was in use while Monet was alive. See the blue reading room in Monet’s studio, the yellow dining room and its valuable collections of Japanese prints, and the locally sourced blue and white Rouen-tiled kitchen with it’s earthenware plates.
Giverny is located approximately 75 km (80 minutes) west of Paris.
Train from Paris to Vernon-Giverny
Trains to Giverny depart from Saint Lazare and take you to Vernon, a town 6 kms away from Giverny, where you can get down and take a shuttle for the rest of your journey. Take the SNCF line heading from Saint Lazare for Rouen Rive Droite and you'll be in Vernon in 45 minutes.
Vernon to Giverny
From Vernon, you can either take the bus, taxi or bike to Giverny or walk the rest of the way. All public transport options are easy to find, you'll even find a few buses waiting at the station.
Fondation Claude Monet
The foundation includes Monet’s house and gardens where roses, poppie, dahlias, crocuses, tulips, irises, peonies and wisteria adorn the garden, year round. Monet’s house is a burst of colours as well - from its dusky pink exterior to yellow dining room and petit salon bleu, where Monet’s collection of Japanese prints is displayed.
Musée des Impressionnismes
Musée des Impressionnismes is nestled in a beautifully designed garden of its own. The annual exhibitions here are excellent and the permanent exhibitions are a well-curated collections of work by the likes of Sorolla, Degas or Manguin. They also conducts regular painting workshop, special events and tours.
Paris To Giverny - Top Guided Tours
4Reims
Day Trips From Paris
150 km
Distance
Referred to as the ‘Coronation city’, Reims (pronounced like "rance") has witnessed the making of French history right since the dawn of the millennium. The city is also the base to explore the beautiful Champagne trail of ‘Montagne de Reims’, where the world’s best champagnes come from! From the Reims Cathedral to the vineyards and cellars of the champagne houses, there is a lot to explore in Reims, which is why it gets over 1.5 million visitors each year. A mere 145 km away from Paris, it is ideal for a day trip to enjoy the treasures of Reims.
Montagne de Reims
The Montagne de Reims are one of the four regions of Champagne district AOC, where houses have the right to call their sparkling wines ‘champagne’.
Abbey of Saint Rémi
Saint Rémi is the patron saint of the city of Reims and holds importance as the Bishop who converted Clovis, the King of Franks, to Christianity.
Palais du Tau
The walls of the Palace of Tau speak of the gaiety and celebrations of the coronations of kings. The palace hosted the ceremonial banquets after the coronation in the nearby Reims Cathedral.
Bus
Buses from Paris to Reims are ridiculously cheap, sometimes priced as low as one euro! Buses leave Paris from Bercy-Seine station in Paris and drops off in Reims at the Champagne-Ardenne train station. The total trip takes about 2-3 hours. Note, while the bus journey is definitely a cheaper option, it takes three times longer than the train.
Train
The easiest way to get to Reims is on the high-speed train, which gets you into the city center in only 45 minutes. All trains to Reims leave from Gare de Est station in Paris and arrive at either Reims or Champagne-Ardenne.
For the best deals, book your tickets as far in advance as possible as the ticket fare for these trains are based on demand, so tickets get more expensive as seats sell out and the travel date gets closer.
Car
You can drive from Paris to Reims, but the effort is not worth it. You could get there in 2 hours, but if you're driving during rush hour on this popular commuter route expect to be behind the wheel for much longer. The tolls amount to more than train or bus , not to forget the cost of renting a car and fuel. If you're planning to visit only Reims, you should stick to bus or train commute. If you're exploring more of French countryside, like Troyes, Lyon or Strasbourg then a car makes sense.
Organized Tour
The most hassle free way of traveling from Paris to Reims, an organized tour has your travel, entry to attractions and the company of a fantastic local guide sorted. What more do you need for an ideal day trip from Paris?!
Reims Cathedral
The 13th century Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral is one of Europe’s finest Gothic cathedrals and the site of coronation of over 30 French kings.The magnificent cathedral stands tall at 81m, and houses 2,303 statues.
Palais du Tau
The walls of the Palace of Tau speak of the gaiety and celebrations of the coronations of kings. The palace, built in the Baroque style, houses several statues and rich tapestries that narrate heroic stories of France. Maintained as a museum today, it contains the coronation objects like the Talisman of Charlemagne and the Chalice of coronation.
Montagne de Reims
The mountains of Reims offer the sweetest and most famous bubbly – Champagne! Montagne de Reims are one of the four regions of Champagne district , where houses have the right to call their sparkling wines ‘champagne’. A Reims Champagne tour is ideal to discover the sunlit vineyards that produce the famous sparkling wine.
Abbey of Saint Rémi
Saint Rémi is the patron saint of Reims and holds importance as the Bishop who converted Clovis, the King of Franks, to Christianity. His relics are still preserved at the Abbey, beside which is the grander Basilique Saint-Remi.
Paris To Reims & Champagne - Top Guided Tours
5Loire Valley
Day Trips From Paris
150 km
Distance
Blessed with abundant fertility, the river banks around Loire Valley play host to a number of towns that preserve the lavish cultural legacy even today. A day trip to Loire Valley will acquaint you with architectural marvels, verdant vineyards, and opulent chateaux. Sip on some world-renowned wines (courtesy, of course, the Loire Valley) as you cosy up with a book in one of their roadside cafes and take in the resplendent scenery.
Castles
Loire Valley is best known for its stellar castles. While there are over 300 châteaux in Loire Valley, the Château de Chenonceau and the Château de Chambord are the most visited, as well as the most photographed, castles in France.
Wine tasting
Being France’s third largest wine producer, Loire Valley houses some of the most picturesque vineyards that produce a variety of wines.
Museums
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours holds an eclectic collection of artworks, sculptures as well as furniture from the 14th century onwards.
Bus
A number of buses ply from Bercy Seine in Paris to Loire Valley. Check out buses 735, 773, 790, 733, N1162, N1163. This journey should take you about 2 hours.
Train
From Paris Montparnasse to St Pierre Des Corps by train and a quick self-transfer to a bus from St Pierre Gare to Jéricho takes you to the heart of Loire Valley. The whole journey should take just about 1.5 hours.
Car
If you truly wish to enjoy the scenic route from Paris to Loire Valley, travelling by road is ideal for those interested in capturing the landscaping views into their camera. A journey by road takes 3 hours.
Organized Tour
This is the best way to travel from Paris to Loire Valley. Since the journey via train includes self-transfers bus travel is time-consuming and driving a car for 3 hours is bound to tire you our, a coach transfer on organized tours offers many positives - wine tours, transfers from your accommodation and the company of an expert local guide.
Châteaux
Loire Valley is best known for its stellar castles, and while there are over 300 châteaux in Loire Valley, the Château de Chenonceau and the Château de Chambord are the most visited, as well as the most photographed, castles in France. With their expansive courtyards and palace grounds, these castles look right out of a fairytale.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
A museum dedicated to the wonders of fine art, Musée des Beaux-Arts holds an eclectic collection of notable artworks, sculptures, furniture, as well as paintings beginning from the 14th century onwards. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is also regarded as an iconic structure in Loire Valley because of its strikingly beautiful facade.
Cathedrals
Loire Valley is also blessed with some of the finest cathedrals in the world - Bourges Cathedral and the Chartres Cathedral, being the most popular for their intricate architecture and their artistic stained glass windows.
Wine Tasting
Being France’s 3rd largest wine producer, Loire Valley houses some of the most picturesque vineyards that produce a variety of wines. Take a guided walk through Loire Valley's vineyards, a typical visit which begins with a brief look into the grape picking and wine producing process, along with a fun wine-sipping experience to go along!
Paris To Loire Valley - Top Guided Tours
6 Normandy
Day Trips From Paris
280 km
Distance
Perhaps one of the most sought after sights of Normandy, the D-Day landing beaches are considered to be the scene of some of the bloodiest battles of the World War II. Apart from taking a walk down these now-pristine beaches, you can also take part in visiting one of the many museums and memorials along the way.
D-Day Beaches
The beaches of Normandy, aka D Day beaches -Omaha beach, Utah beach, Juno beach, Gold beach, and Sword beach were the landing points for the Allied invasion of Western Europe. You can walk along the shores of these beaches and spend the day beach hopping. Despite having been a battleground, today these beaches are costal vacation spots known for their pebble beaches.
Cemeteries and War Memorials
Normandy is also best known for its poignant cemeteries and war memorials that run along its scenic beaches. The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville sur Mer is the most visited cemetery in Normandy, a World War II cemetery and memorial that honors American troops who died in Europe during World War II. If you have time, you must also visit the British Military Cemetery of Bayuex and WW2 German Cemetery at La Cambe.
Pastoral Villages
Normandy is where the real French countryside flourishes. With charming houses and even more charming curio shops and cafes, walk the cobbled streets on the villages in Normandy for a real taste of rural life. From Le Bec-Hellouin to Giverny and the port village of Barfleur, each one is better than the other. Here are the most beautiful villages in Normandy.
Camembert Cheese
This moist, soft and creamy cow's milk cheese was first made in the late 18th century at Camembert, Normandy. While it is similar to Brie, it does have a different flavour and its runny interior with a white bloomy rind and rich, buttery flavour demands a cheese tour while in Normandy.
Bus
A number of buses ply from Bercy Seine in Paris to Loire Valley. Check out buses 735, 773, 790, 733, N1162, N1163. This journey should take you about 2 hours.
Train
From Paris Montparnasse to St Pierre Des Corps by train and a quick self-transfer to a bus from St Pierre Gare to Jéricho takes you to the heart of Loire Valley. The whole journey should take just about 1.5 hours.
Car
If you truly wish to enjoy the scenic route from Paris to Loire Valley, travelling by road is ideal for those interested in capturing the landscaping views into their camera. A journey by road takes 3 hours.
Organized Tour
This is the best way to travel from Paris to Loire Valley. Since the journey via train includes self-transfers bus travel is time-consuming and driving a car for 3 hours is bound to tire you our, a coach transfer on organized tours offers many positives - wine tours, transfers from your accommodation and the company of an expert local guide.
Châteaux
Loire Valley is best known for its stellar castles, and while there are over 300 châteaux in Loire Valley, the Château de Chenonceau and the Château de Chambord are the most visited, as well as the most photographed, castles in France. With their expansive courtyards and palace grounds, these castles look right out of a fairytale.
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Tours
A museum dedicated to the wonders of fine art, Musée des Beaux-Arts holds an eclectic collection of notable artworks, sculptures, furniture, as well as paintings beginning from the 14th century onwards. The Musée des Beaux-Arts is also regarded as an iconic structure in Loire Valley because of its strikingly beautiful facade.
Cathedrals
Loire Valley is also blessed with some of the finest cathedrals in the world - Bourges Cathedral and the Chartres Cathedral, being the most popular for their intricate architecture and their artistic stained glass windows.
Wine Tasting
Being France’s 3rd largest wine producer, Loire Valley houses some of the most picturesque vineyards that produce a variety of wines. Take a guided walk through Loire Valley's vineyards, a typical visit which begins with a brief look into the grape picking and wine producing process, along with a fun wine-sipping experience to go along!
Paris To Normandy - Top Guided Tours
7Mont St. Michel
Day Trips From Paris
360 KM
Distance
It’s difficult to pinpoint what exactly makes Mont St. Michel special – is it the location, set in the bare sand with the receding tide with its marvelous spires brushing the sky? Is it the Bay of Mont St. Michel, across which pilgrims used to make the arduous journey to visit the chapel by foot during low tide? Or is it the abbey, its interior adorned with arches and cloisters, once a renowned centre of learning that attracted the greatest minds from all over Europe? Maybe it's all of that and more that makes this religious and military masterpiece one of the most beautiful and awe-inspiring places in the world.
Mont St. Michel Abbey
The Gothic abbey was built bit by bit. For example, the Romanesque style church within it was built around 1060, whilst Charles VI is believed to have been responsible for its fortification between the 13th and 14th centuries.
Grand Degré Steps
The Grand Degré is the name of the iconic set of stairs that lead up to the abbey. Like many who take the pilgrimage, climbing up the stairs to the abbey and the surrounding walls will provide you with stunning views of the monastery's grand architecture as well as beautiful panoramic views of the surrounding bay and countryside.
TGV (Train A Grand Vitesse)
Take a TGV from Paris’ Gare Montparnasse to Rennes, from where Keolis buses travel to Mont St. Michel up to 4 times a day. The journey should take you around 3.5 hours. You can also change trains at Rennes for the Pontorson-Mont St-Michel train station. Once you arrive at the edge of the mainland, you can either take a free shuttle or walk across the 900 m long causeway (Pont Passerelle) that connects the mainland to the island. The shuttle will cost you €2 shuttle one way.
Car
There is a dedicated car park on the mainland, 1.5 miles away from the island. From the parking lot you have to walk about 800m to Place des Navettes and board the free shuttle that drop you about 450m away from the island. The shuttles operate every day from 7:30 AM to midnight.
Guided Tours
Most day trips to Paris begin with a pick up in Paris at the break of dawn. With round-trip transportation from Paris to Mont St. Michel and back, an organized day trip from Paris to Mont St. Michel allows you to skip the hassle of arranging your own journey to this popular destination. With an expert local guide giving you company through the day, bask in the knowledge they impart and visit the best of Mont St. Michel.
Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel
Le Mont St. Michel is a fairytale island commune located off the coast of Normandy, France. The image of Le Mont St. Michel with its dramatic spires and abbey, majestically rising from the bare beach is what most people come to see in Mont St. Michel.
La Chapelle-Saint-Aubert
Another hidden gem of a chapel, quieter and more pristine than other chapels in town. A tiny stone construction with paintings inside, it feels serene and calm with terrific views at high tide.
La Grande Rue
A street full brimming with hole-in-the-wall shops and rustic cafés, Mont-Saint-Michel’s main street is more like something from a fairytale than a French town. The street is steep as well as busy, so wear good shoes and save your feet.
Paris To Mont St. Michel - Top Guided Tours
8Somme
Day Trips From Paris
164 KM
Distance
The region of Somme is located in northern France and forever associated with memorials of the first world war, but it has a lot more to offer visitors, from unspoilt countryside to quaint coastal resorts. The Battle of the Somme was one of the most brutal battles in the history of WWI, with a casualty of over one million soldiers. Even though more than ten decades have passed since the tragic battle, visitors can visit the trenches used by the troops and even the crevices left behind by deadly shells! If you are a history buff wanting to learn more about World War I, a visit to this beautiful region can reveal a lot.
Scenic drive
The drive from Paris to Somme with its winding coastal roads, devoid of traffic is a great ride. It is interspersed with historically important towns, memorials, museums, battlefields and graveyards.
Somme Battlefields
Experience the history of World War I on your visit to the Somme Battlefields and pay your respect to those who lost their lives in the war.
Adventure activities
One can indulge in sand-yachting, horse-riding, kayaking and hiking in Somme. There's a lot more in this region than memorials and graveyards.
Somme Bay
Visit Somme Bay, one of the most beautiful bays in the world. It is rich in wildlife and is most famous for the colony of seals that can be spotted at any given time.
Train ( TER)
You can take the TERI from Paris Nord to Amiens which is a short distance away from Somme.
Car
Traveling by car from Paris to Somme is a great idea. It takes just about 2 hours and you also get to explore nearby areas without having to rely on public transportation. However, the tolls, rental fee and fuel could cost a bit, hence work out the logistics and budget before driving down.
Organized Tour
This is one of the best ways to travel from Paris to Somme. Leave the hassle of planning to your tour guide and simply kick back and relax through your scenic coach ride and explore nearby attractions like Somme Battlefields, Somme Bay and the many memorials.
Somme battlefield
The Somme battlefield is liberally scattered with various battlefields, trenches and memorials. While you may not be able to cover each and every one of them, no trip to Somme is complete without visiting at least the key battlefields, trenches and memorials.
John Monash Centre
The John Monash Centre is an ode to Australia's story during the tragic war. You can get to hear war stories in the form of letters, images and diary entries - a truly immersive and interactive experience of the war and its consequences.
Museum of the Great War
Located at the heart of the Somme battlefield, the Museum of the Great War is one of the largest war museums in Europe. Prisoners of War and Children in World War I, two of its most famous permanent exhibits are the highlight for most visitors in Somme.
Historial of the Great War
The Historial of the Great War in Perrone depicts the lives of soldiers behind the trenches. The museum also has a collection of interesting documentaries and films that lets us know more about the war and its consequences.
9Provins
Day Trips From Paris
92 KM
Distance
In Provins, yesteryears aren't a thing of the past. Every facet of medieval Champagne can be found in Provins, frozen in its entirety within La Tour Cesar, The Ramparts, and numerous other structures. La Roseraie de Provins will introduce you to elegant French gardening, while La Légende des Chevaliers will acquaint you to the nuances of medieval France. If you find yourself in Paris searching for a little peace of mind, Provins, is where you should head.
Medieval Times
A day in Provins is like a walk down the medieval era, a chance to delve into the depths of a city that is seemingly frozen in the 13th century.
Offbeat Experiences
The Equestrian falconry show "Eagles of the Ramparts" is an exquisite display of medieval hunting tradition.The Tithe barn, another interesting location in Provins is an exotic barn that has a large fireplace with a fire that burns almost all year. The massive wooden beams that adorn the Grange aux Dîmes is a sight to behold. Not to forget, the La Légende des Chevaliers show that features knights, damsels, animals indulging in sword fighting, comedy sketches, and stunts.
Train
The train journey will take you 1 hour 25 minutes by Transilien P from East Railway Station in Paris.
Bus
Hop on bus N4 from Paris and you'll reach Provins in 1 hour 40 minutes
Guided Tour from Paris to Provins
The guided tour of Provins lasts a total of 9 hours which includes transport from and to Paris in an air conditioned coach leaving from Paris City Vision Agency. Entry to the Les Aigles Des Remparts is complementary with the guided tour. An audio guide of the Grange aux Dîmes is also a part of the bundle. A guided tour is the most convenient option available to you.
La Légende des Chevaliers
This good versus evil themed show is a must watch for history buffs. The La Légende des Chevaliers show features knights, damsels, animals indulging in sword fighting, comedy sketches, and stunts. Though most dialogues are in French, it is easy to follow from the animated actions and expressions.
Saint-Jean's Gate and The Remparts
A tour of The Remparts will help you gauge the importance of Provins in the history books. The ramparts of Provins have 22 towers, and a tour here gives you the chance to walk the footsteps of legendary merchants and soldiers.
La Tour Cesar
Henri le Liberal is the crown jewel of Provins. Believed to be built during the reign of Henri le Liberal, this tower was mainly used for military purposes. The unassuming charisma of the architecture of its exterior leads you to the pragmatic interiors with dark passages and narrow stairwells. You are rewarded with a magnificent view of Provins from the top of La Tour Cesar.
Les Souterrains de Provins
Subterranean Provins has two sets of tunnels, one of which is believed to be in use during the Iron ages, and the other during the medieval period. A guided tour will reveal all that is known about these mysterious tunnels - the drawings and graffiti dating as far back as you can imagine.
La Roseraie de Provins
La Roseraie de Provins houses close to 500 varieties of roses in 30,000 square feet of area, divided into different chambers. Right by the entrance is a tea room that affords you a view of the capering colors and the town in all its glory.
Les Aigles Des Remparts
This show is for people who like birds and animals. Trainers get the birds swooping in from all directions during the show. The instructions are in French but that won’t mar the experience. At the end of some of the shows, the trainers may even place the birds on your head or shoulders. In addition to birds, dogs and horses are a part of the Les Aigles Des Remparts too.
10Carcassonne
Day Trips From Paris
760 KM
Distance
The largest fortified Medieval city of Europe, the city of Carcassonne, France, makes us feel as though we are stepping into a fairytale. Complete with drawbridges, moats, gateways and innumerable towers, this ancient city is said to have inspired Walt Disney’s adaptation of The Sleeping Beauty. If you are a History buff, you will enjoy exploring the medieval churches and hidden castles this rustic city houses.
Picturesque Drive
The drive from Paris to Carcassonne, though a long one, is very beautiful. Visitors can also make pit stops at picturesque destinations like the Loire valley and Dordogne that fall along the way.
Historic Relevance
The city of Carcassone played a very important role in the formation of France and was once the seat of the Counts of Carcassonne. It later became the home ground of the Trencavel family.
Exploring the Fortified Town
Carcassonne is one of the few cities that are fortified even now. Explore the old city that is still protected by the fortress walls built hundreds of years ago.
Train
The train journey will take you around 7 hours from the Paris austerlitz Railway Station.
Bus
FlixBus and BlaBlaBus have a number of buses plying from Paris to Carcassonne. The journey will be covered in around 14 hours.
Guided Tour from Paris to Carcassonne
One of the best ways to explore the city of Carcassonne is to opt for a guided tour. The guided tour will include transfers to and from Paris, saving you the hassle of arranging your own conveyance.
The Citadel
The Citadel spans an area of 3 km and houses 52 towers surrounded by a moat. A fascinating castle, a beautiful basilica and the entire Old City rest within these outer walls
The Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus
Famous for its Romanesque architecture and intricate sculptures, the basilica was built hundreds of years ago. It's central stained glass window is sai dto be the oldest in all of France.
Châteaux de Lastours
A combination of four magnificent castles, Châteaux de Lastours overlooks the picturesque village of Lastours. Just 20 minutes north of Carcassonne, this medieval castle should not be missed.
Day Trips From Paris - Compare Your Options
| Day Trips from Paris | Distance | Duration | Category | Good For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Versailles | 20 kms | 40 minutes | Historic | Family, Couples |
| Disneyland Paris | 41 kms | 50 Minutes | Fun & Adventure | Family, Kids |
| Giverny | 75 KM | 80 minutes | Art & Culture | Family, Couples |
| Provins | 92 KM | 1 hour 13 minutes | Medieval towns | Family, & Couples |
| Reims | 150 KM | 1.2 hours | Wine, Art & Culinary | Family, Couples |
| Loire Valley | 150 KM | 120 Minutes | Wine, Art & Culinary | Family, Couples |
| Somme | 164 KM | 2 hours | History and Adventure enthusiasts | Family,Youngsters & Couples |
| Beaches of Normandy | 280 KM | 3 Hours 30 minutes | History enthusiasts | Family, Couples |
| Mont St. Michel | 360 KM | 4 Hours 20 Minutes | History enthusiasts | Family, Couples |
| Carcassonne | 760 KM | 7 Hours | History enthusiasts | Family, Couples |
Things To Consider Before Booking A Day Trip From Paris
Money: How to Balance Your Budget
Budgeting is tough and you need to find the right balance, as time can amount to money on a holiday. You need to maximise your time in a new destination while making sure you stay within budgets. The best way to go on day trips from Paris is to join a guided tour. These tours help you combine one or more destinations ensuring you see the best sights.
A guided tour will also cut down on your transportation costs and throw in more perks like the experience of a guide. You can get great insights on the destinations as well as allow for flexibility and not be bound by public travel schedules!
Season: What's the best time to go?
Summer is undoubtedly the best time to visit Paris. It is also when the colorful flowers bloom in Giverny, and the countryside towns of Reims and Normandy smell sweet and fresh. It is the best time to go on day trips from Paris but that’s what is on every tourist’s mind! This makes it also the busiest season with tourists’ choc-a-bloc at every attraction.
However, if you can brave a bit of a chill, then autumn months from September to December are great to explore these destinations. Except for Giverny, all the attractions are open and relatively crowd-free. You will also end up spending lesser on accommodation and air fares.
Sites: Which Sites You Can Cover, and What to Expect
The most difficult task of travel planning is to prioritise which sites to see and which to leave out! The task can get more so difficult in France, especially while choosing day trips from Paris. The best way to choose would be based on your interests and the possibility of combining these destinations.
Art and history lovers would love a visit to the gardens of Monet at Giverny and the breathtaking Palace of Versailles. Architecture enthusiasts would love the castles at Loire Valley and the splendid Mont St. Michel. The champagne county of Reims and the striking landscapes of Normandy are a delight of nature lovers, while Disneyland is the perfect family destination!
Time: How much have you got to spare?
Time is as good as money in the pocket! But unfortunately, most travelers have to make the choice of spending time judiciously on their holiday. Most day trip destinations from Paris are within three hours of journey time, and many of them can be combined based on the route as well.
Most guided tours ensure you make the best of your time and cover a lot on a full day tour. However, if you are lucky and spending more than a few days in Paris or are from Paris itself, then you can go on longer trips. Reims, Normandy, and Loire Valley are great destinations, and worth extending your trip for.
FAQs
The best way to get to and from the airport is by taking public transportation. There are several options for getting to and from Charles de Gaulle Airport, including the RER B train, the Orlybus, and the Roissybus.
Some of the best day trips from Paris include visiting the Palace of Versailles, exploring the Loire Valley, and touring the Champagne region.
Yes, Disneyland Paris is definitely worth a visit! The park is huge and there are plenty of things to do for people of all ages. Plus, you can't go to Paris without seeing at least some of the Mouse!
There are a few different countries that you can visit in a day from Paris, including Belgium, Luxembourg, and Switzerland
Some of the best day trips for families with kids include visiting the Zoo de Vincennes, going to the Jardin d'Acclimatation, and exploring the Parc de la Villette.
Some of the best day trips for couples include visiting Giverny, touring the Champagne region, and exploring the Loire Valley
Some of the best day trips for groups of friends include visiting the Palace of Versailles, going wine tasting in the Loire Valley, and exploring the city of Brussels.
Paris Travel Guides
Check out the top things to do in Paris and our Paris Travel Guide to plan your vacation better!
