Paris is enchanting, but some of France’s greatest treasures lie just beyond the city.
These day trips from Paris offer history, art, wine, and breathtaking scenery – all within easy reach of the capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Paris regular, these unforgettable day trips will immerse you in France’s rich culture and beauty.
From the royal grandeur of Versailles to the peaceful gardens of Giverny and the storied beaches of Normandy, these destinations promise unique experiences beyond the city’s iconic streets. Here’s your guide to the best day trips from Paris for every type of traveler.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may get a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no cost to you.
Versailles
A visit to Versailles, just 30 minutes from Paris, offers a glimpse into the opulence of France’s royal past.
As you step inside the legendary Château de Versailles, marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, where sparkling chandeliers and gilded arches reflect centuries of history.
Wander through the lavish King’s State Apartments and the elegant Queen’s Chamber, experiencing the luxury once enjoyed by Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette.
But visiting Versailles is much more than simply making your way through Versailles palace. The sprawling gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre, stretch over 800 hectares with fountains, sculptures, and symmetrical alleys.
Rent a bike or stroll through the manicured pathways to fully experience their splendor. Don’t miss the charming Petit Trianon and Queen’s Hamlet, Marie Antoinette’s rustic retreat.
Getting there
- Train: Take the RER C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche (10-minute walk to the palace).
- Tour: Join a guided day trip at Versailles with skip-the-line access. Or join a tour from Paris with skip-the-line access and optional garden tour.
- Private Tour: For the ultimate experience, enjoy hotel pick-up with a guide and driver for a private, full-day tour of the palace and grounds.
Stay Longer
For a luxurious overnight stay on the palace grounds, book a room at Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle, where you’ll enjoy exclusive access to the palace after hours.
Another excellent choice just outside the palace grounds is the Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace, where you’ll enjoy lush gardens and Michelin-star dining.
Read more about Versailles in Visiting Versailles: The Crown Jewel of Any Paris Trip.
Giverny
Step into a living painting in Giverny, where Claude Monet found endless inspiration. The renowned painter’s home and gardens bring his famous works to life.
Wander through the colorful flower gardens, where vibrant blooms line winding paths. Then, cross the iconic Japanese Bridge, shaded by wisteria, and admire the tranquil Water Lily Pond, immortalized in Monet’s masterpieces.
Inside Monet’s pink-shuttered home, explore rooms preserved as they were during his life. The bright yellow dining room and blue-tiled kitchen showcase his artistic eye beyond the canvas.
Getting there
- Train: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny, then a shuttle bus or taxi to the gardens.
- Tour: Opt for a guided half-day group tour or small-group tour of Monet’s garden with transportation from Paris. Or opt for a full-day small-group tour of Monet’s garden and Auvers-Sur-Oise to see where Van Gogh found inspiration for 77 of his masterpieces.
- Private Tour: For an immersive experience, choose a private tour with an art historian guide and driver, including pickup and dropoff to your Paris hotel.
Stay Longer
Rest at Le Jardin des Plumes, a boutique hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, a short walk from Monet’s house.
Mont Saint-Michel
Few sights are as awe-inspiring as Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island, surrounded by dramatic tides. As you approach, the spires of the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel rise like a fairytale castle. Explore the ancient abbey, where Gothic arches and stained-glass windows create a timeless, sacred atmosphere.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site rises dramatically from the sea and is a sight to behold. Time your visit with the tides—at high tide, Mont Saint-Michel appears to float on water, while at low tide, the surrounding seabed offers a unique walking experience. Wander the narrow cobbled streets filled with medieval charm, quaint shops, and restaurants. Be sure to sample the famous Omelette de la Mère Poulard, a fluffy dish that has delighted visitors for over a century.
Getting there
- Train: Travel by train to Rennes, then connect by bus to Mont Saint-Michel.
- Tour: A full-day guided tour from Paris that includes transportation is the easiest option.
- Private Tour: Meet your guide in Mont Saint-Michel for a private, personalized half-day walking tour of Mont Saint-Michel. Or opt for a private full-day guided tour and driver from your hotel in Paris.
Stay Longer
For a unique overnight experience, book a room at Auberge Saint-Pierre, a charming hotel inside the island’s walls.
For luxury outside the island, choose Château de Boucéel, a grand 18th-century country estate.
Champagne
A day in the Champagne region is a celebration of France’s most iconic beverage. Just 90 minutes from Paris, this region offers prestigious vineyards, historic cellars, and unforgettable tastings.
Begin in Reims, home to the magnificent Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned. Tour world-renowned Champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Pommery, learning about the art of méthode champenoise and savoring their finest bubbly.
In Épernay, stroll along the famous Avenue de Champagne, lined with the grand estates of producers like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
For a more personal touch, visit smaller, family-run vineyards in the surrounding countryside. Of the many prestigious names in the region, each champagne house has its own charm.
Getting there
- Train: Reach Reims or Épernay by high-speed train (under 90 minutes from Paris).
- Tour: Join a guided day trip with cellar tours and tastings. Many tours depart from Paris, with others departing from Reims or Épernay.
- Private Tour: Enjoy hotel pickup and curated visits to both famous and boutique producers on this private tour, led by a local wine expert and vineyard owner.
Stay Longer
Rest at the elegant Domaine Les Crayères, a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant set within beautiful gardens.
Normandy
Walk through history on a visit to Normandy, where the events of D-Day forever changed the course of World War II.
Explore the historic Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, where thousands of white crosses honor fallen soldiers.
Visit the Caen Memorial Museum, which provides a powerful overview of World War II and the D-Day invasion. At the Pointe du Hoc, see the dramatic cliffs where American troops heroically scaled enemy defenses.
But Normandy offers more than its wartime legacy. Explore the picturesque port town of Honfleur, known for its colorful harbor and artistic charm. Marvel at the striking white cliffs of Étretat, a favorite subject of Impressionist painters.
Getting there
- Train: Travel from Paris to Bayeux, then rent a car or join a local tour.
- Tour: A full-day guided tour from Paris is the most convenient way to explore the D-Day beaches. Or experience the beaches in a quieter manner with a guided small-group tour from Bayeux.
- Private Tour: Visit Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach and the Cimetiere Americain de Colleville-sur-Mer (American Cemetery of Colleville) on this customizable, private tour, including round-trip transportation from your Paris hotel.
Stay Longer
Enjoy the charm of history at Château La Chenevière, a luxurious 18th-century country house that served both Axis and Allied forces during WWII.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley, known as the Garden of France, offers fairy-tale châteaux (the Loire Valley Castles) and world-class wines.
Explore the iconic Château de Chambord, a Renaissance masterpiece with a double-helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Wander through its vast grounds, where deer roam freely.
Next, visit Château de Chenonceau, known as the Ladies’ Castle for its history of women who shaped its beauty. The château gracefully spans the River Cher, creating one of the most photographed scenes in the Loire.
Wine lovers can stop at local vineyards to sample Sancerre, Vouvray, or Chinon wines.
Getting there
- Train: Take a train from Paris to Blois-Chambord and shuttle or taxi to Chambord. Take a train from Paris to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps (Tours) and connect via TER to Chenonceau.
- Tour: Book a group tour or small-group tour from Paris to visit multiple castles in one day. Or take the train to Tours before meeting your small group for a full-day tour of Chambord and Chenonceau.
- Private Tour: Enjoy the sights of the Loire Valley on a private tour with your art historian guide, visiting Chambord, Chenonceau and Chateau Royal d’Amboise to view Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb, including transportation via private driver from your Paris hotel.
- Alternate Château: If you’d like to visit a chateau without going all the way to the Loire Valley, consider the Château de Chantilly, less than 30 minutes by train from Paris Gare du Nord.
Stay Longer
Experience authentic château life at Château de la Barre, a family estate dating back to 1401. Enjoy wine tastings and a traditional dinner hosted by the Count and Countess de Vanssay.
Rouen
History, art, and medieval charm converge in Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Known as the city where Joan of Arc was tried and executed, Rouen offers visitors a journey through time.
Admire the towering façade of the Rouen Cathedral, immortalized in a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where half-timbered houses and hidden courtyards evoke the Middle Ages. Visit the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, an immersive museum that tells Joan of Arc’s story through cutting-edge multimedia displays.
Art lovers will enjoy the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of works by Caravaggio, Rubens, and the Impressionists.
End your visit with a stop at a local café to savor Normandy cider and a slice of Tarte Normande (apple tart). Explore more regional French Food here.
Getting there
- Train: Rouen is an easy 90-minute train ride from Gare Saint-Lazare.
- Tour: Take a small-group walking tour to fully appreciate the city’s rich history.
- Private Tour: Learn about the history of Rouen and the aspects that most interest you on a fully customizable, private walking tour of Rouen.
Stay Longer: Stay at the elegant Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, a 15th-century mansion-turned-luxury hotel in the heart of the Old Town.
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Paris
- Transportation: Book high-speed train tickets, direct train when possible, in advance for the best rates.
- Timing: Start your day early to maximize time in each destination.
- Tours: Private tours offer the most convenience and personalized experiences.
- Season: Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds while avoiding the height of the summer tourist season.
The Bottom Line: Best day trips from Paris
Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of Versailles, the artistic charm of Giverny, or the historic shores of Normandy, these are the best day trips from Paris to enrich your French adventure. From castles to vineyards, from medieval streets to seaside cliffs, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and heritage of France.
Want more inspiration for your French getaway? Explore our other France travel posts.
Paris is enchanting, but some of France’s greatest treasures lie just beyond the city.
These day trips from Paris offer history, art, wine, and breathtaking scenery – all within easy reach of the capital. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a Paris regular, these unforgettable day trips will immerse you in France’s rich culture and beauty.
From the royal grandeur of Versailles to the peaceful gardens of Giverny and the storied beaches of Normandy, these destinations promise unique experiences beyond the city’s iconic streets. Here’s your guide to the best day trips from Paris for every type of traveler.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I may get a small commission if you choose to purchase, at no cost to you.
Versailles
A visit to Versailles, just 30 minutes from Paris, offers a glimpse into the opulence of France’s royal past.
As you step inside the legendary Château de Versailles, marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, where sparkling chandeliers and gilded arches reflect centuries of history.
Wander through the lavish King’s State Apartments and the elegant Queen’s Chamber, experiencing the luxury once enjoyed by Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette.
But visiting Versailles is much more than simply making your way through Versailles palace. The sprawling gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre, stretch over 800 hectares with fountains, sculptures, and symmetrical alleys.
Rent a bike or stroll through the manicured pathways to fully experience their splendor. Don’t miss the charming Petit Trianon and Queen’s Hamlet, Marie Antoinette’s rustic retreat.
Getting there
- Train: Take the RER C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche (10-minute walk to the palace).
- Tour: Join a guided day trip at Versailles with skip-the-line access. Or join a tour from Paris with skip-the-line access and optional garden tour.
- Private Tour: For the ultimate experience, enjoy hotel pick-up with a guide and driver for a private, full-day tour of the palace and grounds.
Stay Longer
For a luxurious overnight stay on the palace grounds, book a room at Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle, where you’ll enjoy exclusive access to the palace after hours.
Another excellent choice just outside the palace grounds is the Waldorf Astoria Versailles – Trianon Palace, where you’ll enjoy lush gardens and Michelin-star dining.
Read more about Versailles in Visiting Versailles: The Crown Jewel of Any Paris Trip.
Giverny
Step into a living painting in Giverny, where Claude Monet found endless inspiration. The renowned painter’s home and gardens bring his famous works to life.
Wander through the colorful flower gardens, where vibrant blooms line winding paths. Then, cross the iconic Japanese Bridge, shaded by wisteria, and admire the tranquil Water Lily Pond, immortalized in Monet’s masterpieces.
Inside Monet’s pink-shuttered home, explore rooms preserved as they were during his life. The bright yellow dining room and blue-tiled kitchen showcase his artistic eye beyond the canvas.
Getting there
- Train: Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny, then a shuttle bus or taxi to the gardens.
- Tour: Opt for a guided half-day group tour or small-group tour of Monet’s garden with transportation from Paris. Or opt for a full-day small-group tour of Monet’s garden and Auvers-Sur-Oise to see where Van Gogh found inspiration for 77 of his masterpieces.
- Private Tour: For an immersive experience, choose a private tour with an art historian guide and driver, including pickup and dropoff to your Paris hotel.
Stay Longer
Rest at Le Jardin des Plumes, a boutique hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant, a short walk from Monet’s house.
Mont Saint-Michel
Few sights are as awe-inspiring as Mont Saint-Michel, a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island, surrounded by dramatic tides. As you approach, the spires of the Abbaye du Mont-Saint-Michel rise like a fairytale castle. Explore the ancient abbey, where Gothic arches and stained-glass windows create a timeless, sacred atmosphere.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site rises dramatically from the sea and is a sight to behold. Time your visit with the tides—at high tide, Mont Saint-Michel appears to float on water, while at low tide, the surrounding seabed offers a unique walking experience. Wander the narrow cobbled streets filled with medieval charm, quaint shops, and restaurants. Be sure to sample the famous Omelette de la Mère Poulard, a fluffy dish that has delighted visitors for over a century.
Getting there
- Train: Travel by train to Rennes, then connect by bus to Mont Saint-Michel.
- Tour: A full-day guided tour from Paris that includes transportation is the easiest option.
- Private Tour: Meet your guide in Mont Saint-Michel for a private, personalized half-day walking tour of Mont Saint-Michel. Or opt for a private full-day guided tour and driver from your hotel in Paris.
Stay Longer
For a unique overnight experience, book a room at Auberge Saint-Pierre, a charming hotel inside the island’s walls.
For luxury outside the island, choose Château de Boucéel, a grand 18th-century country estate.
Champagne
A day in the Champagne region is a celebration of France’s most iconic beverage. Just 90 minutes from Paris, this region offers prestigious vineyards, historic cellars, and unforgettable tastings.
Begin in Reims, home to the magnificent Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned. Tour world-renowned Champagne houses such as Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Pommery, learning about the art of méthode champenoise and savoring their finest bubbly.
In Épernay, stroll along the famous Avenue de Champagne, lined with the grand estates of producers like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
For a more personal touch, visit smaller, family-run vineyards in the surrounding countryside. Of the many prestigious names in the region, each champagne house has its own charm.
Getting there
- Train: Reach Reims or Épernay by high-speed train (under 90 minutes from Paris).
- Tour: Join a guided day trip with cellar tours and tastings. Many tours depart from Paris, with others departing from Reims or Épernay.
- Private Tour: Enjoy hotel pickup and curated visits to both famous and boutique producers on this private tour, led by a local wine expert and vineyard owner.
Stay Longer
Rest at the elegant Domaine Les Crayères, a five-star hotel with a Michelin-starred restaurant set within beautiful gardens.
Normandy
Walk through history on a visit to Normandy, where the events of D-Day forever changed the course of World War II.
Explore the historic Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, where thousands of white crosses honor fallen soldiers.
Visit the Caen Memorial Museum, which provides a powerful overview of World War II and the D-Day invasion. At the Pointe du Hoc, see the dramatic cliffs where American troops heroically scaled enemy defenses.
But Normandy offers more than its wartime legacy. Explore the picturesque port town of Honfleur, known for its colorful harbor and artistic charm. Marvel at the striking white cliffs of Étretat, a favorite subject of Impressionist painters.
Getting there
- Train: Travel from Paris to Bayeux, then rent a car or join a local tour.
- Tour: A full-day guided tour from Paris is the most convenient way to explore the D-Day beaches. Or experience the beaches in a quieter manner with a guided small-group tour from Bayeux.
- Private Tour: Visit Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach and the Cimetiere Americain de Colleville-sur-Mer (American Cemetery of Colleville) on this customizable, private tour, including round-trip transportation from your Paris hotel.
Stay Longer
Enjoy the charm of history at Château La Chenevière, a luxurious 18th-century country house that served both Axis and Allied forces during WWII.
Loire Valley
The Loire Valley, known as the Garden of France, offers fairy-tale châteaux (the Loire Valley Castles) and world-class wines.
Explore the iconic Château de Chambord, a Renaissance masterpiece with a double-helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci. Wander through its vast grounds, where deer roam freely.
Next, visit Château de Chenonceau, known as the Ladies’ Castle for its history of women who shaped its beauty. The château gracefully spans the River Cher, creating one of the most photographed scenes in the Loire.
Wine lovers can stop at local vineyards to sample Sancerre, Vouvray, or Chinon wines.
Getting there
- Train: Take a train from Paris to Blois-Chambord and shuttle or taxi to Chambord. Take a train from Paris to Saint-Pierre-des-Corps (Tours) and connect via TER to Chenonceau.
- Tour: Book a group tour or small-group tour from Paris to visit multiple castles in one day. Or take the train to Tours before meeting your small group for a full-day tour of Chambord and Chenonceau.
- Private Tour: Enjoy the sights of the Loire Valley on a private tour with your art historian guide, visiting Chambord, Chenonceau and Chateau Royal d’Amboise to view Leonardo da Vinci’s tomb, including transportation via private driver from your Paris hotel.
- Alternate Château: If you’d like to visit a chateau without going all the way to the Loire Valley, consider the Château de Chantilly, less than 30 minutes by train from Paris Gare du Nord.
Stay Longer
Experience authentic château life at Château de la Barre, a family estate dating back to 1401. Enjoy wine tastings and a traditional dinner hosted by the Count and Countess de Vanssay.
Rouen
History, art, and medieval charm converge in Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Known as the city where Joan of Arc was tried and executed, Rouen offers visitors a journey through time.
Admire the towering façade of the Rouen Cathedral, immortalized in a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Wander through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, where half-timbered houses and hidden courtyards evoke the Middle Ages. Visit the Historial Jeanne d’Arc, an immersive museum that tells Joan of Arc’s story through cutting-edge multimedia displays.
Art lovers will enjoy the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of works by Caravaggio, Rubens, and the Impressionists.
End your visit with a stop at a local café to savor Normandy cider and a slice of Tarte Normande (apple tart). Explore more regional French Food here.
Getting there
- Train: Rouen is an easy 90-minute train ride from Gare Saint-Lazare.
- Tour: Take a small-group walking tour to fully appreciate the city’s rich history.
- Private Tour: Learn about the history of Rouen and the aspects that most interest you on a fully customizable, private walking tour of Rouen.
Stay Longer: Stay at the elegant Hotel de Bourgtheroulde, a 15th-century mansion-turned-luxury hotel in the heart of the Old Town.
Tips for Planning Day Trips from Paris
- Transportation: Book high-speed train tickets, direct train when possible, in advance for the best rates.
- Timing: Start your day early to maximize time in each destination.
- Tours: Private tours offer the most convenience and personalized experiences.
- Season: Spring and autumn provide pleasant weather and fewer crowds while avoiding the height of the summer tourist season.
The Bottom Line: Best day trips from Paris
Whether you’re exploring the grandeur of Versailles, the artistic charm of Giverny, or the historic shores of Normandy, these are the best day trips from Paris to enrich your French adventure. From castles to vineyards, from medieval streets to seaside cliffs, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the beauty and heritage of France.
Want more inspiration for your French getaway? Explore our other France travel posts.
