Best Day-Trip Destinations from Paris
Who would ever want to leave Paris? However, if you’re keen to explore magnificent châteaux, exquisite gardens, medieval cathedrals, and beautiful forests, you’re in for a treat. Paris serves as a perfect starting point to access a wealth of treasures throughout France, with options for art lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts all just a train ride away.
Whether you’re eager to walk in the footsteps of Monet in Giverny, enjoy medieval banquets in Provins, or delight the kids at Disneyland, we present seven outstanding day-trip destinations within 90 minutes of central Paris.
1. Step into a Fairy Tale at Château de Chantilly and Stroll Atmospheric Senlis
Travel time: 25 mins to 1hr
Rising from a shimmering lake, Château de Chantilly and its splendid gardens seem to leap straight from a fairy tale. Visitors can admire an extraordinary collection of paintings in the Musée Condé and sample the famed crème Chantilly here. Notably, the Grand Écuries houses the Musée Vivant du Cheval, showcasing riding equipment and offering dressage shows. From Chantilly, enjoy walking and riding trails in the enchanting Forêt de Chantilly.
Regular buses also connect Chantilly to the medieval town of Senlis, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and impressive Gothic architecture, including the stunning Cathédrale de Notre Dame.
How to get to Chantilly from Paris: Chantilly is about 31 miles north of Paris, reachable within an hour by car or via TER trains from Gare du Nord in just 25 minutes.
2. Experience Medieval Life in Provins
Travel time: 1hr 20 mins
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the walled town of Provins immerses visitors in a delightful medieval atmosphere. You can explore impressive structures such as the Tour César and the Church of Saint Quiriace while enjoying live reenactments of medieval markets. The town hosts various spectacles, including falconry and jousting, especially between April and November, making it a perfect family day trip from Paris.
How to get to Provins from Paris: Provins lies to the southeast and can be reached in approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes via the P Line from Gare de l’Est.
3. Visit Chartres, Home to One of France’s Finest Cathedrals
Travel time: 1hr 15 mins to 90 mins
The 13th-century Cathédrale Notre Dame de Chartres ranks as one of France’s best-preserved medieval cathedrals, revered for its stunning stained glass windows and Gothic architecture. The nearby Centre International du Vitrail provides insights into the art of stained glass. Enjoy a leisurely walk through the charming streets leading down to the Eure River, surrounded by quaint bistros.
How to get to Chartres from Paris: Chartres is located 57 miles southwest of Paris, accessible by car in around 1 hour and 30 minutes or via frequent TER trains from Montparnasse station.
4. Channel Your Inner Impressionist at Giverny
Travel time: 45 mins to 1hr 30 mins
Giverny, the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet, invites art lovers to explore his iconic gardens and house, particularly during the spring and summer months. Visitors can also enjoy the delightful Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny, which features exhibitions related to the Impressionist movement.
How to get to Giverny from Paris: Giverny is 46 miles northwest of Paris and can be reached in 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. Trains depart from Gare St-Lazare to Vernon, with connections available to Giverny.
5. Be Dazzled by the Opulence of the Palace of Versailles
Travel time: 40 to 45 mins
The lavishly decorated Château de Versailles, with its 700 rooms and stunning gardens, showcases the extravagant lifestyle of the French monarchy. Visitors can explore the King’s and Queen’s State Apartments and marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, while the beautiful park and gardens invite leisurely strolls and picnics.
How to get to Versailles from Paris: Located just 14 miles southwest of the capital, Versailles is best accessed by the frequent RER C train, taking about 40 minutes.
6. Explore the Scenic Trails of Forêt de Fontainebleau
Travel time: 40 mins to 1hr 15 mins
The expansive Forêt de Fontainebleau offers countless trails for walking and cycling, along with opportunities for rock climbing. The impressive Château de Fontainebleau, surrounded by elegant gardens, boasts a deep history, dating back to the 12th century and expanded by several monarchs over the years.
How to get to Fontainebleau from Paris: Fontainebleau is approximately 42 miles southeast of Paris, accessible in about 1 hour and 20 minutes by car or via R trains from Gare de Lyon.
7. Enjoy a Family Day at Disneyland Paris
Travel time: 40 mins to 1hr
Disneyland Paris offers a magical experience for families seeking fun and excitement. The park features classic attractions and themed lands, including Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, where visitors can enjoy a wide variety of rides, shows, and character encounters.
How to get to Disneyland Paris from Paris: The park is located 20 miles east of Paris, with journey times around 40 minutes by car or via RER A trains from central Paris.
Exploring these destinations will undoubtedly deepen your appreciation for the art, history, and landscapes surrounding Paris. Enjoy your trip!
