The best day trips and excursions from Paris

If Paris has something to keep you busy for days on end, there are just as many wonders in the surrounding area. Sumptuous castles, medieval villages, hiking trails and even amusement parks, the number of excursions from Paris is enough to make you dizzy. So, are you more of a countryside escapade or a cultural visit? Be inspired by the best escapes near Paris.

A magical day at the Palace of Versailles

From the Cour d’Honneur to the Hall of Mirrors, everything at Versailles evokes grandeur. The gardens are just as enchanting. Besides, the park is free except on high water days. Of course, you may have company. However, you can get away from the crowds by venturing to the Trianon estate, which is accessible from noon. The castle is open all year round from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 a.m. The winter season also promises a little more privacy. Whatever the date of your visit, you must reserve a time slot. Several packages are available from €19.50, excluding any freebies.

Escapade at the gates of Paris in Vincennes

Easily accessible by metro, Vincennes is the seat of a nine-century-old castle. The castle opens every day between 10am and 5pm or 6pm depending on the season. The entrance fee is 9,50 €. Vincennes also offers an escape in the heart of the famous Bois de Vincennes. Between a boat ride, a zoo and a picnic by the lake, there is plenty to enjoy in the fresh air just a stone’s throw from Paris.

Fun day at an amusement park

The region’s theme parks cater to families and older children alike. In Marne-la-Vallée, Disneyland Paris is the kingdom of princesses and superheroes. Due to the park’s high attendance, remember to book your ticket well in advance. The daily packages range from 56 € to 105 €, excluding special rates. The Asterix park is full of rides, sensational attractions and shows. Book a dated ticket to benefit from a discount bringing the entrance ticket to less than 50 €, adults and children combined.

Back to the Middle Ages in Senlis and Provins

If the Paris region concentrates some of the most illustrious monuments of the world, it abounds in as many unknown treasures. On a day trip from Paris, immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of two cities with a rich heritage. Forty kilometers from the capital by train and bus, Senlis is home to the oldest residence of the Capetian kings preserved to this day. Its old cobbled streets surrounded by half-timbered houses take you from cathedral to Gallo-Roman ramparts. Further south, Provins offers an equally charming medieval setting. In spring and summer, the city even comes alive with daily shows.

Norman excursion to Rouen

Rouen is an easily accessible getaway from Paris. Trains frequently reach the city from the Saint-Lazare station. The historic heart of the Normandy capital is full of sites, each more photogenic than the last. Stroll between the quays of the Seine and the Gros Horloge, with the cathedral immortalized by so many artists as the highlight. The Museum of Fine Arts exhibits some of these masterpieces, free of charge.

Impressionist visit to Giverny

A leading figure in Impressionism, Monet painted some of his finest works in Giverny, including the famous Water Lilies paintings. It is his house that you can discover in this small Norman village. The painter’s house and gardens can be visited from April 1st to November 1st from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm. As a precaution, it is better to book your ticket online (€11.50 per adult). In addition to the Claude Monet Foundation, the village has many interesting museums and art galleries.

Seaside trip to Deauville

Deauville is the most famous resort on the Côte Fleurie. Direct trains connect it to Paris in just over two hours. Its long sandy beach is a swimmer’s paradise, while the mythical casino offers incomparable views of the waterfront. Deauville also rhymes with horse racing, and the Touques racecourse hosts events throughout the year. More discreet, the fishing port of Trouville stands out from the chic of its neighbor by its authentic atmosphere.

Recollection on the landing beaches

In 1944, the Normandy beaches were the scene of one of the key episodes of the Second World War. Today, tourists flock from Omaha to Utah to relive the history of D-Day. In order to explore the many museums and memorials along the coast, it is best to rent a vehicle upon arrival. You should also plan an early departure, because the landing beaches are located at about 2h30 from the capital by train then by bus.

A breath of fresh air in Fontainebleau

For a nature getaway, head to the Fontainebleau forest. This haven of greenery offers you many activities in a day’s drive from Paris. Nearly five hundred kilometers of trails delight hikers, while an initiation to climbing awaits you along the Fontainebleau walls. An unforgettable view rewards your efforts at the top of the Denecourt Tower, a Napoleonic monument buried under the vegetation. The Emperor also left his mark on the Château de Fontainebleau, which is open every day from 9:30 a.m. except Tuesdays. Count 13 € for the full price.

Culture and nature in Chantilly

The Chantilly castle is an alternative to Versailles or Fontainebleau. On site, the visit is accompanied by fun experiences, such as a treasure hunt through the park or a geolocated investigation game (1,99 €). The domain’s reputation is also due to its Grandes Écuries. The full price ticket includes access to the equestrian activities, while a supplement applies depending on the shows and concerts of the moment. The entrance to the park alone costs 8 €. The entire estate can be visited every day from 10am, except on Tuesdays.

Gourmet stroll in Champagne

Champagne is the meeting place for gourmets. Forty minutes from the capital by TGV, Reims reveals its cathedral where all the kings of France were crowned. The city also celebrates the prestigious sparkling wine of Champagne with cellars and large houses accessible to the visit, tasting included. In parallel, the discovery of a vineyard can be easily integrated into a day trip from Paris.

Relaxation in Enghien-les-Bains

Strolling through the countless Parisian monuments can be exhausting. Treat yourself to a day out of Paris full of serenity. Enghien-les-Bains is the only spa town in Ile-de-France and has been home to renowned baths and spas for two centuries. After a massage or a treatment, the area around the lake of Enghien reveals an enchanting panorama. Take a pedal boat or rent a fishing rod, unless you prefer the view from the casino.