Explore France

10 Popular Day Trips From Paris: Optional Itinerary Add-Ons

Day trips from Paris are a great way if you have extra time or looking to see more of France and help fill your itinerary with some the countries top attractions, instead of limiting yourself to just Paris. Lets take a look at 10 popular day trip options from Paris to help fill your schedule.

Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral

Here are some of the most popular day trips from Paris, offering a break from the city while immersing you in French history, culture, and natural beauty. These spots, in no particular order are perfect for a quick getaway from the capital and help fill your itinerary.

1. Versailles

view of the courtyard and back of the palace of Versailles — Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is just 30 minutes from Paris by train and offers a glimpse into the opulence of French royalty. Originally a hunting lodge, it was transformed by Louis XIV into one of the most extravagant palaces in the world. The Hall of Mirrors, Royal Apartments, and sprawling Versailles Gardens are all must-sees. You can easily spend a full day exploring the palace and its extensive grounds, including the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Estate.

30 minutes by train from Paris
Palace is closed on Mondays
Gardens are free to enter, but palace admission is required for indoor access

2. Giverny

red, blue, purple and orange flowers in Giverny, France home of Claude Monet house — Giverny

Giverny is best known as the home of the famous painter Claude Monet. You can visit his house and gardens, which inspired many of his iconic paintings, including the water lily series. The gardens are beautifully maintained, with colorful flowers, a Japanese bridge, and serene ponds. A visit here feels like stepping into one of Monet’s paintings. Giverny is especially popular in the spring and summer when the gardens are in full bloom.

45 minutes by train, plus a short bus or taxi ride
Best visited from April to October for garden views
Combine with a visit to the Musée des Impressionnismes nearby

3. Loire Valley

looking up close at the beautiful castle at Loire Valley , surrounded by water in the early fall — Loire Valley is home to 300+ castles

The Loire Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its stunning châteaux and scenic vineyards. This region is home to some of the most famous castles in France, including Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château d’Amboise. You can spend the day exploring these grand estates, walking through their gardens, and even tasting local wines from nearby vineyards. The lush countryside and historic architecture make this area a popular destination.

1.5 to 2 hours by train from Paris
Ideal for castle lovers and wine enthusiasts
Many guided tours include multiple châteaux in one day

4. Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel from the shore — Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel is a medieval abbey perched on a rocky island off the coast of Normandy. It’s one of France’s most iconic landmarks and is surrounded by dramatic tidal waters that rise and fall daily. The winding streets of the village lead up to the impressive abbey, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding bay. Visiting Mont Saint-Michel is like stepping back in time, with its cobblestone paths, ancient architecture, and rich history.

3 hours by train or bus from Paris
Best visited during low tide for easier access to the abbey
Stay for sunset views, but be mindful of return transportation

5. Champagne Region:
Reims and Épernay

courtyard view of the Notre-Dame de Reims cathedral — Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral

The Champagne Region is the birthplace of sparkling wine and makes for a perfect day trip from Paris. Head to Reims or Épernay, the two main towns in the area, to tour world-renowned Champagne houses like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, and Taittinger. Learn about the Champagne-making process, walk through centuries-old cellars, and, of course, enjoy tastings. Reims also boasts a stunning cathedral, Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings were once crowned.

45 minutes by train to Reims or Épernay
Ideal for Champagne tastings and cellar tours
Reims Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site

6. Château de Fontainebleau

Located about an hour from Paris, Château de Fontainebleau is another impressive royal residence. Unlike Versailles, Fontainebleau is less crowded but no less stunning. This former royal hunting lodge became a lavish palace, home to kings, emperors, and even Napoleon Bonaparte. The palace’s grand apartments, Napoleon's throne room, and surrounding forest of Fontainebleau make it a fantastic alternative to Versailles.

1 hour by train from Paris
Open daily, including many of the surrounding park areas
Perfect for history lovers and those looking for fewer crowds than Versailles

7. Rouen

overlooking the city of Rouen, France with a large cathedral in the center of the town that towers over the rest of the cities buildings — Rouen, France

Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is a beautiful medieval town known for its half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and Gothic cathedral. It’s also famously linked to Joan of Arc, who was burned at the stake here in 1431. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, depicted in many of Monet's paintings, dominates the city skyline. The Joan of Arc Museum is also worth visiting to learn about her life and legacy.

1.5 hours by train from Paris
Visit the Joan of Arc Museum and Rouen Cathedral
Wander the historic center with its charming medieval architecture

8. Chartres

looking up at the Chartres Cathedral with clear blue skies showing above it — Chartres Cathedral

The town of Chartres is most famous for its Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France. The cathedral’s stunning stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and soaring spires make it a must-visit for architecture lovers. After visiting the cathedral, explore the charming town, which features well-preserved medieval streets and a riverside area perfect for a peaceful walk.

1 hour by train from Paris
Best known for its Gothic cathedral and medieval streets
Free light show illuminates the cathedral at night during summer months

9. Provins

outside the walls of a small medieval castle in Provins, France — Provins

Step back in time with a visit to Provins, a medieval town known for its well-preserved fortifications and lively medieval festivals. Provins was an important center for trade in the Middle Ages, and today it offers visitors a chance to experience life as it was centuries ago. Visit the Tour César, a watchtower offering great views, and explore the town’s underground tunnels. During summer, Provins hosts reenactments, knight tournaments, and falconry displays.

1.5 hours by train from Paris
Medieval festivals held throughout the year
Explore ancient walls, towers, and underground tunnels

10. Auvers-sur-Oise

If you're an art lover, Auvers-sur-Oise is a great day trip to explore the life and work of Vincent van Gogh. This small town is where Van Gogh spent his final days and painted many of his later masterpieces. You can visit the room where he stayed, the landscapes he immortalized, and his simple grave next to his brother, Theo. Auvers-sur-Oise feels peaceful and untouched, making it easy to see how the natural beauty inspired so much of his work.

1 hour by train from Paris
Visit the Auberge Ravoux (Van Gogh’s last residence)
Walking tours available to see locations from Van Gogh’s paintings

These day trips from Paris offer a diverse range of experiences, from royal palaces and castles to medieval towns and picturesque gardens. Whether you're interested in art, history, or nature, these destinations are easily accessible and add another layer of depth to your trip to France. Each offers a unique glimpse into French culture and history, making them well worth the visit.