Hey there, fellow travelers! Are you planning a trip to the city of love and looking for some amazing Paris day trips to add to your itinerary? Look no further because I’ve got you covered!
Paris is an absolutely stunning city with so much history and culture to explore. But if you have a few extra days and want to see even more of what France has to offer, there are so many unique places to visit just a short distance from the city.
In this blog post, I’m going to share with you some of my top picks for the best day trips from Paris. From breathtaking castles and gardens to historic towns and iconic landmarks, these trips will surely make your trip to France more memorable.
So sit back, relax, and get ready to start planning your day tours from Paris. Trust me you won’t be disappointed by any of these amazing destinations!”
Here are twenty-one of the best nearby spots to visit on a day trip from Paris.
1. Visit the magnificent Palace of Versailles and its gardens, a UNESCO World Heritage site just outside Paris
If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you won’t miss visiting the beautiful Palace of Versailles and its gardens. This UNESCO World Heritage site is located just outside the city and is an absolute must-see for anyone interested in history, art, or architecture. Louis XIV converted a hunting lodge into this palace in 1682.
The famed Hall of Mirrors, also known as the Gallery of Glaces, was built to dazzle the king’s courtiers. The 17 enormous gilded mirrors in this opulent, glittering reception hall, each made up of more than 300 mirror pieces, reflect the sunlight to stunning effect. Crystal chandeliers and ornate ceiling paintings in the Baroque style heighten the brilliant effect.
Get ready to get lost in the hall of mirrors’ gilded stucco wonder. And dance around the garden’s orange trees as if you were Marie Antoinette.
As you stroll along the paths, take a moment to marvel at the sculptures and take in the stunning views of the palace from the water’s edge. Whether you’re a history buff, a garden enthusiast, or just looking for a peaceful escape from the city, a visit to Versailles is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
2. Giverny: See the gardens that inspired Claude Monet’s famous paintings and visit the artist’s home in this picturesque village
If you’re an art lover, visiting Giverny is a must during your trip to France. This picturesque village, located just an hour from Paris, is home to the beautiful gardens that inspired many of Monet’s famous paintings. Stroll through the lush gardens and take in the colorful flowers, tranquil lily ponds, and charming footbridges.
As you walk, imagine Monet himself wandering these same paths, sketchbook in hand, capturing the beauty of the natural world on canvas and the Water lilies in bloom in Monet’s Giverny Japanese garden pond.
After exploring the gardens, be sure to visit Monet’s home, which has been preserved as a museum. Here, you can see the artist’s studio, his collection of Japanese prints, and some of his personal effects.
Beautiful gardens also surround the home, so be sure to take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Giverny is a great day trip for anyone interested in art or art history because many other impressionist artists also moved there. Whether you’re an art history buff or just appreciate the beauty of nature, a visit to Giverny is sure to highlight your trip.
3. Chartres: Explore the medieval cathedral of Chartres, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stained glass windows and Gothic architecture
If you’re planning a trip to France and love history or appreciate stunning architecture, the medieval cathedral of Chartres should definitely be on your itinerary. Located in the town of Chartres, this UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its incredible stained glass windows and Gothic architecture.
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Built-in the 12th and 13th centuries, the cathedral has undergone numerous renovations and restorations throughout its history, making it a true testament to the enduring beauty of medieval craftsmanship. Inside, you’ll find breathtaking stained glass windows that depict religious scenes and stories, and the exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures.
If you want to learn more about the history and significance of the cathedral, you can join a guided tour. Otherwise, you can simply wander the grounds and take in the beauty of the cathedral at your own pace. Either way, visiting the cathedral of Chartres will surely be a memorable experience during your trip to France.
4. Normandy: Take a trip to the beaches of Normandy, where the Allied Forces landed on D-Day during World War II
If you’re interested in World War II history, a visit to the beaches of Normandy is a must-see. Located in the northwest region of France, these beaches are best known as the site of the Allied Forces’ D-Day landing during World War II. The invasion, which took place on June 6, 1944, was a turning point in the war and helped lead to the Allied victory.
Today, the D-Day beaches are home to several war memorials and museums that honor the brave soldiers who lost their lives during the invasion.
Visitors can take a guided tour of the beaches and learn more about the history of the D-Day landing or simply walk along the sands and pay their respects.
The American cemetery in Normandy is also worth a visit. Located in Colleville-Sur-Mer, this cemetery is the final resting place for over 9,000 American soldiers who lost their lives during the war.
The cemetery is a somber and moving reminder of the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers.
The beaches of Normandy are also known for their beautiful landscapes and charming seaside towns. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a peaceful place to relax, the beaches of Normandy are a must-see destination.
5. Loire Valley: Discover the castles and gardens of the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley, located in central France, is a region that’s known for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history! If you love castles and gardens (and who doesn’t?), this is definitely a place you’ll want to visit.
The Loire Valley is home to a number of beautiful castles, many of which were built by French royalty in the 16th and 17th centuries. These castles are known for their ornate architecture and gorgeous gardens, and many of them are open to the public for tours.
But that’s not all! In addition to the castles, the Loire Valley is also home to several charming villages and towns worth exploring. Admire Château de Chambord, the finest example of French Renaissance architecture, marvel at Château de Chenonceau, also known as the Ladies’ Castle for some reason, and tour the expansive Château de Cheverny.
The region is known for its vineyards and wine production, so be sure to try some local wines while there. And if you’re into outdoor activities, the Loire Valley is a great place for that too. You can go hiking, cycling, or even fishing. There’s really something for everyone in the Loire Valley!
6. Reims: Visit the city of Reims and its famous cathedral, where many French kings were crowned
The city of Reims, located in the Champagne region of France, is home to several historical and cultural attractions worth visiting. One of the most famous landmarks in the city is the Reims Cathedral, which has a rich history dating back to the 13th century.
This stunning Gothic cathedral is known for its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows, and it has played a significant role in French history as the place where many French kings were crowned.
In addition to the cathedral, Reims is also home to a number of other historical and cultural attractions. These include the Palais du Tau, a former palace that now serves as a museum, and the Basilique Saint-Remi, a beautiful basilica that is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The city is currently known for its Champagne, and several of the most well-known brands in the world have locations there or nearby. While you are there, visit the Lanson champagne house as it’s the only house with a vineyard.
7. Explore the Island Commune of Mont Saint-Michel
Located on the northwest coast of France, the island commune of Mont Saint-Michel is a truly unique destination that is well worth a visit.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is known for its medieval monastery and fortress, which are perched atop a rocky island and connected to the mainland by a causeway. The monastery, which was founded in the 8th century, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and is surrounded by a well-preserved medieval village.
Visitors to Mont Saint-Michel can explore the monastery and the village, taking in the rich history and stunning views. The island is also home to several other attractions, including a museum dedicated to the monastery’s history and charming restaurants and shops.
Additionally, the island is surrounded by beautiful beaches and wetlands, which are great for hiking, biking, and birdwatching. No matter what your interests are, Mont Saint-Michel is sure to have something for you.
8. See the Gothic Cathedral of Rouen and Visit the Site of Joan of Arc’s Execution
The city of Rouen, located in the Normandy region of France, is home to several historical and cultural attractions worth visiting. One of the most famous landmarks in the city is the Gothic cathedral of Rouen, which is known for its stunning architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.
Visitors can take a tour of the cathedral to learn more about its history and significance or simply admire its beauty from the outside.
In addition to the cathedral, Rouen is also home to the site of Joan of Arc’s execution. Joan of Arc, who was a French warrior and national hero, was burned at stake in Rouen in 1431.
Today, visitors can visit the site of her execution and learn more about her life and legacy at the Joan of Arc Museum.
Other attractions in the city include the Palais de Justice, a beautiful courthouse dating back to the 15th century, and the Place du Vieux-Marché, a charming square home to many restaurants and shops. Rouen is an excellent destination for anyone interested in history and culture.
9. Explore the Rugged Coast and Charming Villages of Brittany
Brittany is a must-see destination in the northwest region of France for anyone who loves the coast, charming villages, and seafood.
The region is known for its rugged coastline, with charming villages and towns perched atop cliffs and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
These villages and towns are great places to explore on foot, with their narrow streets, colorful houses, and charming squares.
Brittany is also known for its seafood. The region is home to a number of seafood restaurants that serve a variety of local specialties, such as moules-frites, mussels served with fries, and crêpes, thin pancakes that can be filled with savory or sweet ingredients.
Brittany is also known for its Celtic traditions, with a number of cultural festivals and events that celebrate the region’s unique history and culture.
Other regional attractions include the Château de Fougères, a castle dating back to the 11th century, and the Pointe du Raz, a rocky headland that offers stunning views of the coast. Brittany is a great destination for anyone who loves the coast, charming villages, and seafood.
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10. Explore the City of Lyon, Known for Its Rich Culinary Tradition and Roman Ruins
Located in the southeast region of France, the city of Lyon is a must-see destination for anyone interested in food and history. Lyon is known for its rich culinary tradition, with a number of renowned restaurants and markets that showcase the city’s famous cuisine.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of local dishes, such as quenelles, pike dumplings in a creamy sauce, and coq au vin, a braised chicken dish made with red wine.
In addition to its culinary delights, Lyon is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions. These include the Roman ruins of the Fourvière hill, which include the remains of an amphitheater, a theater, and a temple.
Visitors can also explore the city’s historic old town, which is filled with charming streets and squares, and visit the Museum of Fine Arts, which houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Lyon is an excellent destination for anyone who loves food and history.
11. Visit the Wine Region of Burgundy and Taste Some of the Finest Wines in France
If you’re a wine lover, a visit to the wine region of Burgundy is a must-see destination. Burgundy is located in the east-central region of France; Burgundy is known for its fine wines are produced from grapes grown in the region’s rolling hills and vineyards.
The region is home to a number of prestigious wineries that produce some of the finest wines in France, including Chablis, a crisp white wine made from Chardonnay grapes, and Pinot Noir, a full-bodied red wine.
Visitors to the wine region of Burgundy can take a tour of the wineries and taste some of the local wines or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vineyards and take in the stunning landscapes.
The region is also home to a number of charming villages and towns, many of which are known for their gastronomy, so be sure to sample some of the local specialties while you’re there.
Burgundy is a great destination for anyone who loves wine and wants to experience the beauty of the French countryside.
12. Discover the Charming Towns and Villages of Alsace
Located in the northeastern region of France, the region of Alsace is known for its charming towns and villages, picturesque architecture, and rich cultural heritage.
The region is home to a number of charming towns and villages, many of which are known for their half-timbered houses, colorful flower boxes, and winding streets.
These towns and villages are great places to explore on foot, with their charming squares, markets, and churches.
In addition to its charming towns and villages, Alsace is also home to a number of cultural attractions. These include the Musée Unterlinden, a museum in the town of Colmar that houses a collection of art and artifacts from the region’s rich history.
The Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg is a castle that offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
The region is also known for its food and wine, with a number of local specialties that are worth trying, such as tarte flambée, a thin crust pizza topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon, and Riesling, a crisp white wine that is produced in the region.
Overall, Alsace is an excellent destination for anyone who loves charming towns and villages, history, and good food and wine.
13. Explore The Magnificent Château de Chantilly
The magnificent Château de Chantilly is a spectacular Renaissance castle in a unique setting, and it’s an easy day trip from Paris (just 25 minutes by train from Gare du Nord). The castle looks to be floating over the property’s man-made ponds and canals, surrounded by wooded areas and sluggish marshlands.
Rich Rococo furnishings and elaborate décor may be found inside the château. The Louvre Museum is surpassed in prominence by the extensive collection of historical paintings on exhibit in the château’s fine arts museum. Numerous masterworks are on display in the galleries, including creations by Botticelli, Raphael, Philippe de Champaigne, Poussin, Ingres, and Delacroix.
The enormous formal garden (Jardin à la Française) at the Château de Chantilly is also known. It was created by André Le Nôtre and features his distinctive French-style flowerbeds, geometric design, and elegant fountains.
One of the best places to visit near Paris for outdoor activities is Chantilly. The Château de Chantilly park offers a variety of recreational activities, including boating, cycling, romantic strolls, and watching equestrian performances.
The 35-minute Train tour around the park and gardens is popular with kids. The Anglo-Chinese Garden hamlet, the Grand Canal, and the formal garden are all visible from the Little Train as it travels along this enjoyable joyride.
14. Visit the Lavender Fields and Picturesque Villages of Provence
Located in France’s southeast region, Provence is known for its beautiful landscapes, Mediterranean climate, and charming villages. One of the region’s most iconic features is its lavender fields, which bloom with purple flowers in the summer months and offer a stunning sight to behold.
Visitors can take a tour of the lavender fields and learn more about the history and cultivation of this fragrant plant, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the fields and take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
In addition to its lavender fields, Provence is also home to a number of charming villages and towns that are worth exploring. These villages and towns are known for their picturesque streets, charming squares, and colorful houses and offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture.
Provence is also known for its food and wine, with a number of local specialties that are worth trying, such as ratatouille, a vegetable stew, and rosé, a light and refreshing pink wine.
Other attractions in the region include the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that dates back to the 1st century AD, and the Calanques de Cassis, a series of rocky inlets that offer beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Provence is an excellent destination for anyone who loves beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and good food and wine.
15. Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a vast fairyland of fantasy and adventure, making it the ideal day excursion for families with young children.
Sleeping Beauty Castle is a popular tourist destination where a fire-breathing dragon lives in the vaulted cellars and stained glass and tapestries represent the tale of Sleeping Beauty.
Other popular attractions include It’s a Small World, the Mad Hatter’s Tea Cups spinning coaster, and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.
More than 50 different restaurants are there at Disneyland Paris, along with several hotels. Taking the RER Line A train from Chatelet Les Halles to Marne-la-Vallée from Paris makes the trip simple (the ride takes about 40 minutes from Paris). From Charles de Gaulle airport, a direct TGV train runs to Marne-la-Vallée.
16. Day Trips From Paris – Explore the Dordogne Region
The Dordogne region, located in the southwest region of France, is a must-see destination for anyone who loves charming villages, castles, and prehistoric art.
The region is home to many charming villages and towns worth exploring, with their narrow streets, colorful houses, and charming squares. These villages and towns offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture and are great places to relax and take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
In addition to its charming villages, the Dordogne region is also home to many castles and fortifications worth visiting.
These include the Château de Castelnaud, a castle that dates back to the 13th century and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and the Cité de Carcassonne, a fortified city that is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The region is also home to a number of prehistoric cave paintings, including those at the Grotte de Lascaux, which are a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Other attractions in the region include the gardens of Marqueyssac, which offer beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, and the Basilique de Saint-Savin.
This Romanesque basilica is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Overall, the Dordogne region is a great destination for anyone who loves charming villages, castles, and prehistoric art.
17. Visit the Wine Capital of Bordeaux
The city of Bordeaux, located in the southwest region of France, is a must-see destination for anyone who loves wine, history, and culture. Bordeaux is known for its wine, with several prestigious wineries producing some of the finest wines in the world.
Visitors to Bordeaux can take a tour of the wineries and taste some of the local wines or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the vineyards and take in the beauty of the surrounding countryside.
In addition to its wine, Bordeaux is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions.
These include the Basilique Saint-Michel, a Gothic basilica that dates back to the 14th century, and the Place de la Bourse, a beautiful square that is home to the Palais de la Bourse, a neoclassical building that now serves as a museum.
The city is also home to a number of museums, galleries, and theaters, making it a great destination for anyone who loves art and culture.
Other attractions in the city include the Jardin Public, a beautiful park home to several sculptures and monuments, and the Marché des Capucins, a bustling market that is a great place to sample some of the local specialties. Bordeaux is a great destination for anyone who loves wine, history, and culture.
18. Take a Trip to the French Riviera and Enjoy the Sunny Beaches
The French Riviera, located on the Mediterranean coast in the southeast region of France, is a must-see destination for anyone who loves sunny beaches, glamorous cities, and beautiful landscapes.
The French Riviera is home to a number of charming towns and cities, including Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez, which are known for their sunny beaches, glamorous boutiques and restaurants, and stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Visitors to the French Riviera can relax on the sandy beaches, take a stroll along the promenades, and enjoy the region’s Mediterranean climate.
In addition to its sunny beaches and glamorous cities, the French Riviera is also home to a number of beautiful landscapes, including the Calanques de Cassis, a series of rocky inlets that offer stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea, and the Massif des Maures, a mountain range that is home to a number of hiking trails.
The French Riviera is also home to a number of cultural attractions, including the Musée Picasso in Antibes, which houses a collection of works by the famous artist, and the Musée Matisse in Nice, which displays a collection of works by the famous artist.
Other regional attractions include the Castello d’If, a castle made famous by the novel The Count of Monte Cristo, and the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a lavish mansion now a museum.
Mainly the French Riviera is an excellent destination for anyone who loves sunny beaches, glamorous cities, and beautiful landscapes.
19. Explore the Pyrenees, a Mountain Range That Forms the Border Between France and Spain
The Pyrenees are a must-see destination for anyone who loves mountain scenery and outdoor activities. Located in the southwest region of France, the Pyrenees are a mountain range that forms the border between France and Spain.
The Pyrenees are home to a number of stunning landscapes, including glacial valleys, alpine meadows, and snow-capped peaks, which offer a breathtaking sight to behold.
Visitors to the Pyrenees can take a tour of the mountains and enjoy the beauty of the alpine landscape or simply relax and take in the views from one of the many mountain resorts that dot the region.
In addition to its stunning landscapes, the Pyrenees are also a great place for outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
The region is home to a number of ski resorts that offer a range of ski runs for all levels of ability, as well as a number of hiking and mountain biking trails that are suitable for all levels of fitness.
The Pyrenees are also home to a number of charming villages and towns that are worth exploring, with their quaint streets and squares, and local specialties that are worth trying, such as garbage, a hearty soup made with beans and vegetables, and foie gras, a dish made of goose or duck liver.
The Pyrenees are a great destination for anyone who loves mountain scenery and outdoor activities.
20. Visit Château de Fontainebleau
If you want to take an easy day trip from Paris, you can visit the royal Fontainebleau, which is just 40 minutes drive from Paris.
You know, Versailles isn’t everything about royal France. Napoleon III (the famous one’s nephew) and Louis VII lived in the medieval Palace of Fontainebleau, which was referred to as the “Second Rome” because of a suite of chambers that Napoleon I had specifically designed for Pope Pius VII. The lavishly planted Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, designed by the same architect who created the Palace of Versailles, is another attraction that visitors should explore. Visit the Fontainebleau Forest in (second) Rome for its massive stones and breathtaking scenery. There are about 3,000 different species of mushrooms in this area.
21. Take a Trip to the Gorges Du Verdon, a Stunning Canyon in the South of France
The Gorges du Verdon is a must-see place for anyone visiting the south of France! This stunning canyon is located in the heart of the Provence region and is known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities.
There are so many things to do, like hiking and rafting (or even rock climbing if you’re feeling adventurous). And the Verdon River’s crystal-clear waters are perfect for experienced rafters.
But even if you’re not into outdoor sports, the Gorges du Verdon is still a must-see. The canyon walls are great for rock climbers of all abilities, and the views are stunning no matter what you’re doing.
Plus, it’s home to some really cool historical sites, like the medieval village of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie and the Romanesque church of Notre Dame de Beauvoir. So don’t miss out on this fantastic destination!
Whether you’re a nature lover or just looking to escape the city for a bit, the Camargue is a must-visit.
In fact, it’s the only delta on the Mediterranean coast where the Rhône River flows into the sea, and it’s home to over 400 species of birds, including flamingos, herons, and egrets.
It’s also home to the Camargue bulls, which are used in bullfighting, and the white Camargue horses, which are known for their hardiness and strong swimming abilities.
So if you’re planning a trip to the south of France, definitely don’t miss out on the Camargue!
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