5 Best Day Trips from Paris
From ornate châteaux to quaint villages, there’s so much to see just outside of Paris. Of course, the French capital remains timeless for its wealth of art museums, esteemed gastronomy and historical sites. But there’s a trove of fabulous destinations surrounding the City of Light. Lucky for you, it’s not an either/or situation. We’re happy to share the good news that you can do both: enjoy the best of Paris and discover another corner of France easily. Thanks to the high-speed TGV train, round trips to these destinations are feasible within a day. From the blossoming gardens of Giverny to the Champagne vineyards, delve into France’s many colors during your trip to France by adding a day trip to your itinerary. Here are some of the best day trips from Paris.
5 Best Day Trips from Paris
Versailles
<1 hour from Paris
We would be remiss to not include Versailles as one of the best day trips from Paris. Easily accessible from the city center, Versailles is under an hour away. With the estate spanning nearly 2000 acres, you could spend the day at Château de Versailles and not get to everything. The château dates back to the 1600s and was originally a hunting lodge, according to its website. Clearly it’s had a glow up over the past centuries. With the château and its grounds being so vast, we highly recommend a guided tour who can put the architecture and history into context. Stroll through the king’s private apartments or wander through the lesser known Estate of Trianon. Meander through the château’s peaceful gardens or row a boat in its pond.
Take a VIP Visit of the Palace of Versailles
With French Side Travel, you can make your visit to the Château de Versailles your very own. Make the most of your time on your day trip from Paris with a private guided tour. Trace the steps of the “the Sun King” Louis XIV as well as important figures in French history such as Marie Antoinette. You can personalize your VIP guided visit by catering the tour to your interests. Whether you’d like to explore the palace or the king’s apartments, Marie Antoinette’s hamlet or her private quarters, the choice is yours.
Reims
<1 hour from Paris
Just under an hour from the hustle of France’s capital lies a wealth of vineyards. For those looking for an escape into the countryside and a deep dive into champagne culture, we recommend a day trip to Reims. When you’re not sipping on a glass of bubbly, get lost in downtown Reims where you can admire the majestic architecture of Cathedral Notre-Dame de Reims. Discover some of the region’s best wine cellars and taste some of its finest bubbles.
You might also be interested in our article on the history of champagne and the industry’s pioneers throughout history.
Guided Visit to Maison Ruinart with Wine Tasting and Meal
On your day trip from Paris, uncover the sophistication and luxury of champagne. Embark on a private guided tour of Maison Ruinart’s cellars in Reims. More than 100 feet under the surface, the crayères, or Ruinart chalk quarries, house Maison Ruinart’s wine bottles. Although the quarries were mined around the 5th century, it wasn’t until the 1700s that the Ruinart family started to purpose these quarries as their wine cellars, according to the Ruinart site. The visit includes time exploring the underground cellars, savoring a 5-course meal, and, bien sûr, a champagne tasting at Maison Ruinart. Sip a glass of its distinguished Prestige Cuvée.
Château de Chantilly
1 hour from Paris
Step into the world of royals and château life on a day trip from Paris to the Château de Chantilly. Boasting eight centuries of history, this château began as a fortress in the Middle Ages and belonged to the first lords of Chantilly, according to its website. From the Renaissance to the French Revolutions, the domain continued and evolved with each of its owners. This château even welcomed literary stars Molière and Jean Racine. Upon his death in the late 1800s, the Duke of Aumale gave over his property to the Institut de France, and in 1898, it was opened to the public, according to its website. Today, art aficionados will adore its vast antique paintings collection. Discover its Living Museum of the Horse or attend an equestrian show. Marvel at the gold detail and opulent decor of the reception rooms utilized by the princes of Bourbon-Condé.
Tours
1 hour from Paris
One of the major towns in the Loire Valley, Tours is a great starting point to explore this region. In the town of Tours, enjoy a peaceful stroll through its botanical gardens. Get lost in the old town with its half-timbered houses and sip on a glass of local wine in the vibrant Place Plumereau. From Tours, you can easily reach some of the Loire’s beloved châteaux and domains, such as Château Villandry — not even a 30-minute drive from town.
Loire Valley Tour on Horseback
What better way to explore the wine region of the Loire than by horseback? On your private tour with French Side Travel, you’ll trot through the region’s vineyards and forests. Make a stop at Château Villandry for lunch — and a fabulous stop at that — as well as a visit to this castle just outside of Tours.
Giverny
1 hour from Paris
The town of Giverny may only be under 50 miles from Paris, but it feels worlds away. This small French town is known for Claude Monet’s home and his famed gardens. Take a peek at his blue salon and imagine the daily life of this artist who pioneered the Impressionist movement. Get lost in his garden filled with poppies, dahlias and irises. And, of course, you’ll be able to marvel at the pond that inspired his famed water lily paintings.
Read our article on Claude Monet’s life and artwork that forever left its mark on the world.
Where to Stay in Paris
Hotel Balzac
After an exciting day trip from Paris, rest your head at this five-star hotel only a hop, skip and jump away from the Champs-Elysées. No matter which of the 58 rooms and suites you choose, you’re sure to enjoy a luxurious stay. We recommend one with Eiffel Tower views or private terrace! Unwind with a drink at its lounge or perhaps at the Ikoi Spa with its Japanese-inspired treatments.
Maison Armance
Following your full day of adventure, unwind with a luxurious stay at this 4-star hotel. Maison Armance is inspired by French writer Stendhal, who lived here in the 1800s. Tucked in the 1st arrondissement, this hotel features with artwork by Lauren Collin and Laurent Letourmy.
Paris offers a wealth of museums, history and gastronomy. But there’s also a plethora of unique experiences just outside France’s capital. If you’re longing to discover one of France’s châteaux or discover idyllic towns, taste excellent wine or stroll quaint gardens, they’re all at your fingertips. Whether you’re tempted by a stroll through Versailles or Giverny, there are plenty of day trips from Paris to add to your trip. At French Side Travel, we’re happy to help you not only plan one of these best days trips but also take care of all the logistics. Contact one of our travel specialists today to start planning. You might also like: Paris in Style: A Luxury Escape of Art, History & Taste or Timeless France: From Paris to the Loire Valley