Paris is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason – it has tons to offer visitors and there are plenty of things to do in Paris. But sometimes, after a few days of sightseeing the city’s famous sights, you might start to feel like you need a break from the city.
If that’s the case, consider taking one of these day trips from Paris – all of which are easily accessible by public transportation. You’ll be able to see some new places and learn about some fascinating parts of French history and culture. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore!
1- Giverny
Giverny is a small town located just an hour outside of Paris. It’s best known as the home of Claude Monet, and as the location of his famous gardens.
Monet lived in Giverny for over 40 years, and the gardens served as inspiration for many of his most famous paintings. Today, the gardens are open to the public, and they remain one of the most popular tourist attractions in France.
Visitors can take a train from Paris to Giverny, and there are also several tour companies that offer day trips from the city. Whether you’re an art lover or simply looking for a beautiful place to relax, Giverny is definitely worth a visit.
2- Chartres
Just a short train ride away is the city of Chartres, which makes for a perfect day trip from Paris. Chartres is home to a magnificent cathedral that was completed in the 13th century, as well as a charming old town with cobbled streets and picturesque half-timbered houses.
The Chartres Cathedral is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is a gorgeous example of medieval Gothic architecture.The Cathedral also boasts beautiful stained glass windows that add to its interior appeal. Some of these stained-glass windows date way back to the 1200s.
There are also plenty of shops and cafes to explore, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two away from the hustle and bustle of Paris.
3- Mont Saint Michel
If you’re looking for a quick getaway from Paris, we highly recommend taking a day trip to Mont Saint-Michel.
Mont Saint-Michel is a small island located in Normandy, France. The island is best known for its abbey, which was founded in the 8th century AD.
The abbey is a popular tourist destination, and it draws visitors from all over the world. The island is also home to a small village, which is situated at the base of the abbey.
The village has a population of just over 40 residents, and it is accessible by foot at low tide. Mont Saint-Michel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in France.
The medieval abbey sits on an island just off the coast of Normandy and can be reached by car or organised tour. Once you arrive, you’ll be transported back in time as you explore the abbey’s ancient halls and climb to the top of its towering spire.
Trust us, Paris is worth a visit, but Mont Saint-Michel is a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
4- Château de Fontainebleau
The Chateau de Fontainebleau is a historic palace located in the village of Fontainebleau, France. Built in the 12th century, it was the primary residence of the French kings for centuries.
In 1528, King Francis I commissioned the construction of a new wing of the palace, and it was during this period that many of the oldest and most iconic features of the chateau were added, including the famed Gallery of Francis I.
The Chateau de Fontainebleu underwent several renovation projects during the 18th and 19th centuries, and it was even used as a military hospital during World War I.
Today, the chateau is open to the public, and its grounds are popular for hiking and picnicking. Visitors can also take tours of the interior of the palace, which features an impressive collection of art and furniture.
5- Château de Chantilly
Château de Chantilly is a beautiful castle located in the town of Chantilly, France. The castle was built in the 13th century and has been extensively renovated over the years.
Today, it is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the region, attracting visitors from all over the world. The castle grounds are vast and include a variety of gardens, including a famous hedge maze.
Inside the castle, visitors can explore a number of opulent rooms, including a library with over 30,000 books. Château de Chantilly is a must-see for anyone interested in French history or architecture.
6- Provins
Provins is a small town in the east of France, about an hour’s drive from Paris. It’s a beautiful old town, with a medieval wall encircling the center and a 12th-century castle on top of a hill.
The town is best known for its production of Champagne and its annual international jousting tournament. The tournament is held in June, and it’s a lot of fun to watch the knights in their armor riding around on horseback. If you’re ever in the area, Provins is definitely worth a visit.
7- Château d’Amboise
Château d’Amboise is a breathtaking castle located in the Loire Valley of France. The castle was built in the 15th century and has been home to many French nobles over the years.
Today, the castle is open to the public and is a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the grounds, visit the state rooms, and even take a ride on a boat around the castle moat. Château d’Amboise is a fascinating piece of history and is well worth a day trip from Paris.
If you’re visiting the Chateau, explore Amboise and its surroundings as well. The village of Amboise is a small town in central France with a population of just over 12,000. Despite its size, Amboise has a long and rich history dating back to the Middle Ages.
Apart from the Chateau, the town is best known for its most famous resident, Leonardo da Vinci. Vinci lived in Amboise for the last three years of his life and is buried in the nearby chapel of Saint Hubert. His home Clos Saint Lucé has been converted into a museum and draws thousands of visitors every year.
Today, the château is a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world. In addition to the château, Amboise is also home to several museums, churches, and other historical sites.
With its beautiful setting on the Loire River and its wealth of things to see and do, Amboise is a popular destination for both French and international travelers.
8- Auvers-sur-Oise
Auvers-sur -Oise is a quaint town that takes visitors into the French countryside. This picturesque village sits about an hour drive or train ride from Paris, offering tourists access to some of France’s most beautiful landscape and cuisine (the latter being enjoyed at one very famous restaurant).
One must visit Eglise Notre Dame d’Auvers; it was here where Impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh spent much time painting during his brief stay in this part of Europe . His home/studio “The Yellow House” also stands nearby , preserving both artist’s memory while showcasing stunning views through olive trees today.
Fans of Van Gogh should also visit the Auberge Ravoux, also known as the Maison de van Gogh (House of Van Gogh) is a restaurant with rooms available where the artist Vincent rented bed and board beginning on May 20th 1890. It no longer has any rooms but retains its classic French cuisine prepared from local ingredients which he enjoyed while sitting at table back in the dining room by window looking out over flowering fields towards Rhone River Valley below him – just what you’d expect if your goal were chasing down some good old fashioned rustic beauty!
9- Compiègne
Compiègne is a small town located in the north of France. It is best known for its Palace of Compiègne, a large royal residence that was built in the 13th century.
The palace was the home of several French kings and queens, and it remained an important royal residence until the French Revolution. Today, the palace is open to the public, and it houses a museum dedicated to the history of France.
In addition to the palace, Compiègne is also home to a cathedral and a number of other historical buildings. The town is situated on the River Oise, and it is just a short drive from Paris. As a result, it makes for a popular day trip destination for visitors to the city.
10- Bruges
Bruges is a beautiful city located in Belgium. It is full of stunning architecture and romantic cobbled streets. The best way to reach Bruges from Paris is by train, as the journey only takes around three hours.
Another way to visit Bruges is by booking an organised tour from Paris. Organised tours often include a guided walking tour of the town and a canal cruise. Canal cruises are, however, not usually offered in winter months.
Once you arrive, you will be able to explore all that the city has to offer, from its impressive churches and museums to its quaint canals and delicious Belgium chocolate.
Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway or simply want to admire some beautiful architecture, Bruges is the perfect destination.
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