23 Best Day Trips from Paris by Train You’ll Love

Looking for the best day trips from Paris by train? You’ve come to the right place!

I adore Paris, and there’s much more to France outside its capital city. Since I hate the stress of driving in a foreign country, taking the train is the perfect solution!

I’ve traveled from Paris by train many times over the years, to cities from Lyon to Strasbourg to the Loire Valley and beyond.

Plus, you’ll be back in the City of Light in time to watch the sparkling lights show on the Eiffel Tower. (So, you won’t even have to worry about the hassle of packing your bags!) 

This is your ultimate guide to the best train day trips from Paris. All of these cities are less than a 2.5-hour trip, so you have plenty of time to explore.

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

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Best Day Trips from Paris by Train

1. Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is one of the most famous Paris tourist attractions.  It makes for a perfect day trip due to its impressive beauty, historical significance, and close proximity to Paris.

2. Strasbourg

Just a quick two-hour train journey transports you from Paris to Strasbourg, the picturesque capital of Alsace. Grab a TGV fast train from the Paris-Est train station and enjoy views of the French countryside as you travel to the city center of Strasbourg.

Alsace is one of the most unique French regions. Bordering Germany, it has a long history of being alternately part of France and Germany.

You can still see the German influence in the architecture, food and language of Strasbourg. You will notice that street names are written in two languages, French and Alsatian, a German dialect.

Strasbourg is best known for having one of the best Christmas Markets in Europe, but quaint half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets of Strasbourg make it a charming day trip destination any time of the year!

To make the most of one day in Strasbourg, head straight to the Grande-Île. It is the historic center of Strasbourg and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

You don’t need a set itinerary, as the Strasbourg city center is compact and walkable.  

Take a guided Segway tour of Strasbourg to see even more of the city’s highlights and save a little wear and tear on your feet.

The must-visit sights are the picturesque La Petite France Quarter (where you can admire some of the oldest buildings in the city), covered bridges, and the Vauban Dam. Climb the Dam viewpoint for a panoramic view of the neighborhood.

The majestic Strasbourg Cathedral is the central point of the city. It is equally impressive from the outside as inside. 

Be sure to watch the performance of the intricate medieval astronomical clock, which happens daily at 12:30. (Tip: arrive at the cathedral by 11:30am to purchase your ticket for this amazing display.)

While you’re here, climb the cathedral’s viewing platform for a spectacular panoramic view of the Alsace region.  At one time, Strasbourg Cathedral was the tallest building in the world.

Sample traditional Alsatian favorites on a guided small-group food tour of Strasbourg.   Enjoy delicious dishes from Flammekueche to pain d’épices (gingerbread) as you learn about the rich culinary heritage of this city.

3. Amiens

Amiens is the capital of the historical Picardy region in Northern France, and is best known for its historical buildings and unique natural waterways. The city is just over a 1-hour direct train ride from Paris, with trains departing hourly from the Gare du Nord.

Visitors come to see the vast Cathedral of Amiens, honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.   

Built during the height of the medieval period, it has the largest area of any cathedral in France.  Tall beams and grand windows let in light to illuminate the heart of this architectural wonder.

The Quai Belu and Saint Leu are some of the most authentic and colorful neighborhoods in Amiens. Enjoy traditional foods such as ficelle Picarde (savory stuffed crêpes) in local restaurants. 

Shop for gifts in the small boutiques and traditional hand workshops of Saint Leu.

Amiens is also known for its natural biotope waterways, called hortillonnages (floating gardens).  

A guided boat ride takes you through the winding maze-like canals and garden islands of the hortillonnages. Enjoy the beauty of the small private gardens, which are tended by their local owners.

Fans of the famous science fiction writer Jules Verne should seek out his house, which is now a museum.  This 19^th century mansion allows you to immerse yourself in the world of Jules Verne.

Finish up your fantastic day in Amiens with a visit to the Belfry, a former prison which is open to the public. It’s also part of a UNESCO World Heritage designation granted to belfries across France and Belgium built between the 11^th and 17^th centuries. 

Discover all the top landmarks in Amiens in your day trip from Paris!

4. London

Since it is across the Channel, the location of London makes it seem a bit far away for a day trip.

But the capital of Great Britain is only 2 hours and 15 minutes from Paris via the Eurostar. The Eurostar runs several times a day, leaving from the Paris Gare du Nord station and arriving at St. Pancras International in London.

Many visitors travel from Paris to London on Sundays to shop.  And, of course, the city of London has countless incredible sights to see and attractions to explore!

Certainly, all of London’s attractions cannot be seen in just one day.   But, with a little organization and preparation, you can definitely see many of London’s iconic sights.

Getting skip-the-line tickets to the most famous London attractions will help you save time.

If you are planning a day trip from Paris to London, you should do some research in advance to determine which London sights that you would like to see.

The highlights of London include Big Ben, Hyde Park, Westminster, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Piccadilly Circus, the Tower of London, and the Houses of Parliament.  Squeeze in even more attractions by taking a guided bicycle tour of classic London landmarks!

If you are a street art fan, Brick Lane with its side streets and Camden are a must.

A culinary stop at a market should not be missed during your day trip to London. Sample traditional British foods from fish and chips to artisan British cheeses; from the humble bacon sandwich, to flavorful curries.

If you have a sweet tooth, a visit to the B-Bakery in Covent Garden is a must. Be sure to try their incredibly delicious lemon curd tartlets! 

Treat your taste buds to the flavors of London on a food tour! There’s definitely something for everyone to enjoy:

5. Fontainebleau

With joyful festivities, fascinating cultural heritage, breathtaking scenery, and close proximity, Fontainebleau is a wonderful getaway from Paris. Fontainebleau is about a 45-minute train ride from Paris, departing from the Gare de Lyon.

The town of Fontainebleau was developed around the historic Château de Fontainebleau.  This UNESCO World Heritage Site was the residence for numerous French monarchs, including Louis VII and Napoleon III.

The Château de Fontainebleau houses an abundance of stunning works of art and the mindfully designed Italian garden.  It also boasts a Hall of Mirrors which is said to have been the model for the more famous version in Versailles. 

In fact, the beauty of the palace rivals that of Versailles.  The Gallery of Francis I, the impressive chapels, and the Turkish boudoir (which was designed especially for Marie Antoinette) are some of the highlights of the palace. 

Walking out of the palace, enjoy the lush verdant scenery – Fontainebleau is surrounded by a natural forest. This is a great location to take a hot air balloon ride.  

Prepare to be amazed as you float over the gorgeous Fontainebleau countryside. For a romantic touch, bring a picnic with a bottle of champagne.  

The Django Reinhardt Festival is held in Fontainebleau during summer and it is the event of the year. This respected jazz music festival and has evolved to include a wider range of music genres. Soak in the festive vibe at night:  enjoy good food and wine, dance, and see performances on different stages set up in the city’s streets.  

Enjoy a birds-eye view of the Château de Fontainebleau and the surrounding countryside on a scenic hot air balloon flight!  This makes a great combination with a visit to the palace.

6. Reims

Located in France’s renowned Champagne region, the historic city of Reims is one of the best fun day trips from Paris.

Reims holds a lot of significance to France as it was the place for the coronations of the kings of France (held at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims).  It is also the unofficial capital of the Champagne region.

Reims suffered significant damage during WW1 and WW2 and many of the city’s Roman-era structures suffered damage that, unfortunately, cannot be repaired.  You can still see a few ancient structures, such as the La Porte de Mars, which dates back to 3 AD.

Today, you can visit Reims to admire its art deco architecture as well as its many Champagne houses.  

Lanson is a popular Champagne house if you want to stay in the city, and there are many Champagne houses located in the greater area surrounding Reims.

Spend the morning seeing the sights in Reims, then spend the afternoon on this small-group Champagne tasting tour which includes visits to the UNESCO-listed Champagne Avenue at Epernay and the abbey where Dom Pérignon once lived.

Getting to Reims from Paris is pretty simple. Trains depart from the Paris Gare de l’Est station and there are up to 12 direct trains daily, with the first leaving at around 7am.

Once you’re in Reims, most everything is within walking distance, or you can hop on the public transport in the city.

Enjoy the fresh air and scenic French countryside on this full-day Champagne tour with E-Bike!  You’ll see the famous Champagne Avenue in Epernay, enjoy multiple Champagne tastings, and have lunch at a restored Champagne house. 

7. Lyon

Lyon is one of the best day trips from Paris.  And taking the train is the actually the best way to get from Paris to Lyon.

It’s only a two-hour TGV trip from the Gare de Lyon station in Paris. There are around 30 trains per day connecting these two fabulous French cities.

There are many excellent things to do in Lyon, so you’ll have a hard time fitting everything into just one day.  But you will certainly be able to explore many of Lyon’s highlights.

You’ll definitely want to visit Vieux Lyon — the old city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has many layers of history to explore.   

See the ancient Roman ruins of the amphitheater and the Odeon, and seek out Lyon’s traboules, hidden passageways that connect one street to another.  Take a private guided tour of traboules and Vieux Lyon to learn about Lyon’s rich history.

Take a funicular to the top of Fourvière Hill to see the Lyon’s beautiful basilica, Notre Dame de Fourvière.  While you’re here, take some time to enjoy the panoramic views of Lyon from the esplanade — it’s one of the most romantic things to do in Lyon!

On the way down the hill, check out Lyon’s Roman ruins of the Amphitheater and the Odeon, and visit the Gallo-Roman Museum, one of the top museums in Lyon. (You can visit many Lyon museums for free with the Lyon City Card.)

You won’t want to miss Lyon’s famous trompe l’oeil murals.  These murals are one of the top attractions in Lyon. They are incredible both in size (they cover entire sides of multi-story buildings) and detail. 

Do you love Lyon? You’ll want to check out my new site, Travel to Lyon!

They’re so lifelike that, at first, you will think you are looking at real shops and Lyon residents going about their everyday activities.  The stunning Mur des Canuts (pictured above) is one of the most famous of these frescoes, and my personal favorite.

And, of course, we can’t talk about Lyon without talking about food!  Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France and has many Michelin-starred restaurants.  Take a food tour of Lyon to make sure you don’t miss out on any local favorites!

Check out the famous market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, for gourmet specialties.  Enjoy lunch at one of Lyon’s bouchons, family-run restaurants featuring Lyonnaise cuisine made with local ingredients.

Combine sightseeing, history, and gastronomy on this half-day walking food tour of Lyon! You’ll see the highlights of Vieux Lyon and sample delicious regional specialties.

8. Metz

The perfect destination for a day trip from Paris is definitely Metz. It is located in northeastern France, close to the borders of Germany and Luxembourg.

In less than an hour and a half by TGV, you’ll travel from the Paris-Est station to the Gare de Metz.  And from there, it’s only a short 15-minute walk to the historic old town.

During your visit, enjoy the many magnificent monuments and attractions of Metz, as well as its natural beauty. One of the highlights is a walk along the banks of the Moselle. 

A visit in summer is especially lovely for a riverside picnic or take a romantic river cruise and view the stunning architecture of Metz.

Be sure to take time to visit Saulcy Island, a beautiful area with many 18th century buildings.  On the neighboring Petit Saulcy Island, you’ll find the Opéra-Théâtre de Metz Métropole, one of the oldest opera houses in Europe.

Certainly, don’t miss visiting the main attraction, the Metz Cathedral! 

Cathédrale Saint Étienne de Metz (the Cathedral of Saint Stephen) is one of the most gorgeous and largest Gothic churches in France and is famous for its large stained-glass windows.

There’s so much to explore in Metz, such as picturesque gardens, the historic old town, boutiques, and many delicious French restaurants.

For a wonderful break, stop by Place Saint-Jacques. It is a lovely place known for its many nice cafés and restaurants.

9. Brussels

Wondering where to head on a day trip from Paris by train? Brussels should be right at the top of your list!

Despite being just over an hour away from Paris by train, and French being one of the national languages, Brussels couldn’t feel further away from the French capital.

The city is easy to explore in one day, though you can also extend your trip for a couple of days and head further outside the main quarters.

Getting from Paris to Brussels is a breeze: You can take a train from Paris Gare Du Nord to Brussels Zuid/Midi. From here, the main center of Brussels (known as Grand Place, or Grote Markt) is just five minutes away on foot.

Wondering what to see in one day? Start in Grand Place, where huge buildings tower above you with their impressive spires. Here you can marvel at the city hall and even take the Belgian Chocolate Museum tour. 

(I think the Grand Place is one of the most impressive squares in Europe! Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Belgium.)

Just around the corner from the city hall is the cheeky Mannekin Pis statue and the Galeries Royales Saint Hubert, a long stretch of high-end stores and centuries-old chocolatiers. 

Can’t get enough chocolate?   How about a tantalizing chocolate walking tour, where you get to sample luscious Belgian chocolates and then make your own in a hands-on chocolate workshop?

Another landmark in Brussels that you should visit is the Atomium. It’s easy to get to by the metro (get off at stop Heysel) despite sitting a little bit further out of the city.

This impressive silver attraction might look strange, but it was created for the 1958 World Fair and is one of Belgium’s proudest sights. You can even head up inside the silver balls and dine with an epic view.

As night begins to fall, sample a Belgian beer (it has to be a Delirium Red) at Delirium. The atmosphere in this cafe is always electric, and the beers are great, too!

Which sounds better, Belgian beer or Belgian chocolate?  Can’t decide?  Then you’ll love this famous 5-star beer and chocolate tour of Brussels! 

10. Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is just a short train ride away from the center of Paris and it’s a fabulous place to visit if you’re looking to embrace your inner child.

If you’re heading to this tourist attraction from Gare du Nord, you’ll want to hop on the RER B (or D) to Chatelet Les Halles before crossing the platform to catch the RER A to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy.

The RER takes under an hour and drops you right by the security gates to the parks. So, it’s one of the easiest day trips from Paris.

Once you’ve crossed the threshold into the main Disneyland Park, you’ll be inundated with things to do. Not only will you encounter tons of delicious treats as you stroll down Main Street, but the sight of the famous castle is bound to take your breath away.

If you want to avoid the crowds, head down the adjacent arcades that line the street.

After getting to the castle, you can cover any of the 4 major lands: Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Frontierland, and Adventureland.  

You’ll find classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean, Buzz Lightyear Laser Blast, and Phantom Manor which are all excellent picks for young children.

But don’t miss the Paris-specific attractions like Le Pays des Contes de Fées (a gentle boat ride that takes you through classic fairytale stories) which are truly magical.

Oh, and don’t forget to settle in at park closing for the dazzling Disney Illuminations which takes place every night!

Before leaving, make sure you visit the slightly smaller Walt Disney Studios park. The new Avengers Campus is a hugedraw for Marvel fans and charming shows like Mickey and the Magician are always worth sticking around for.

If you haven’t burned through your budget before you head back to Paris, check out the many souvenir shops that are dotted around the park. As really, there’s no such thing as too much Disney merch!

Make the most of your Disney day and get your Disneyland Paris tickets in advance.  Choose one park or get the two-park pass and do it all!

11. Giverny

If you are an art enthusiast and love browsing the impressionist museums in Paris, then a visit to Giverny is a must.

Maybe you have never heard of Giverny, but you surely are familiar with its famous water lily pond. This is the pond that you find immortalized in so many of the magnificent paintings of Claude Monet, who lived most of his life in Giverny.

This little town in Normandy lies 75 km northwest of Paris and is a perfect destination for a day trip from Paris!

Just head to the Saint-Lazare station in Paris and hop on the direct train to Vernon. The ride takes roughly 50 minutes. In Vernon, you can either take the bus to Monet’s property or enjoy a scenic one-hour walk on a trail along the Seine.

Once you arrive, you’ll find the property and museum divided into three parts.

The famous water gardens with the Japanese bridge, a Norman orchard and flower garden, and lastly, his house that has been transformed into a museum. You’ll be surprised to not only see his personal items on display but also his extensive collection of Japanese art!

Visiting the gardens of Claude Monet is a wonderful experience, especially if you are a fan of his impressionist artwork.

The garden was the source of his inspiration, and seeing how his art comes to life is simply breathtaking.  Take a guided tour of Monet’s house and gardens to learn more about the life and art of this gifted artist.

Even if you are not too much of an art fan, the garden is still worth visiting. The variety of flowers is remarkable, and the seasonal changes are beautiful to observe.

Pro tip:  If you plan to visit Giverny, keep in mind that the garden is closed from November to the end of March.

If you’re a true art aficionado, you’ll appreciate a VIP private Giverny tour guided by an art historian.   For the ultimate convenience, choose to be picked up from your Paris hotel!

12. Chartres

The French city of Chartres, famous for its enormous Gothic cathedral, is a great choice for a day trip from Paris by train. 

To get to Chartres, take the train from Gare Montparnasse. Head to the second level (above Grand Lignes) to buy your ticket, then check the screens for next train — it often terminates at Le Mans.

In just over an hour, you’ll be in the quaint town of Chartres. As you exit the train station, you’ll see the spires of the Cathédrale Notre-Dame reaching into the sky. Head towards the cathedral and you’ll be heading towards the center of the city.

The Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. For many, visiting this famous Cathedral is on their bucket list.

Its double-story stained-glass windows are part of what makes this massive cathedral famous.   Thankfully, these magnificent windows have survived since the Middle Ages.

Inside the cathedral, you’ll find soaring ceilings, detailed stone carvings, and an astronomical clock dating from the year 1525.  

Look for the labyrinth design patterned into the floor. While there are specific days you can walk the labyrinth, on most days it’s covered by chairs.

While most people are drawn to Chartres for the cathedral, there’s plenty to see in town as well. You’ll find a large produce market in the main square, as well as many antique shops to browse as you wander the quaint historic streets.

Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy lunch at a café.  Head to La Picoterie for a wide variety of savory or sweet crepes, or try the Le Comptoir de Sarah for coffee and pastries.

13. Lille

If you are looking for a fun day trip from Paris to escape the crowds and experience a completely different kind of French city, Lille is the place to go. 

Even though Lille is a beautiful city, it’s not yet overcrowded with tourists.

Trains leave from Gare du Nord in Paris and most arrive in Lille at the Flandres station, which is only a 10-minute walk to town.  Note that some trains arrive at the Europe station, which is slightly further from the city center.

It’s only an hour and ten minutes by train from Paris to Lille, but it will feel as if you’ve arrived in Belgium. This probably has to do with its close proximity to the Belgian border. 

Lille has much in common with Belgium, including its strong beer culture.  And, since it is close to Britain, most people in Lille speak some English.

If you only have one day in Lille, the best thing to do is to wander around the city center and see the incredible historic buildings. 

Highlights include the Palais des Beaux-Arts, La Vieille Bourse (the 17^th century Renaissance stock exchange), La Grand Place (the main square), and the Lille Citadelle.  Start off your visit with a stylish guided tour of Lille’s top attractions in a vintage 2CV car.

For the best views over Lille and a little bit of history and heritage, check out the belfry tower of Lille. It’s a UNESCO-listed heritage site, and for a small fee, you can climb to the top and enjoy stunning panoramic views of Lille.

Visiting Lille is a pleasure year-round.  The city sees its most visitors during the months of July and August (although it’s still nowhere near as crowded as Paris). 

Temperatures drop quite a bit during the winter months between December- February, so you may want to avoid these months if you don’t like the cold.

Before you head back to Paris, save some time to check out the cute shops to score a great French souvenir or a unique vintage item.

Combine a culinary tasting tour of Lille cuisine with a fun live trivia game on this unique 5-star private tour of Lille. 

14. Orléans

Orléans is a short (1-1½ hour) direct train ride from Paris’ Austerlitz station, making it an easy location for a day trip from Paris. 

As the capital of the Centre-Val de Loire region, Orléans can act as a hub for visiting Loire Valley châteaux, but it also has wonderful architecture of its own worth seeing.

Orléans is best known for its connection to Joan of Arc (Jeanne d’Arc), who believed that God chose her to lead France to victory during the Hundred Years’ War. She liberated the city from the English on May 8, 1429, which is generally seen as a turning point of the conflict.

Now the city celebrates the “Maid of Orléans” for ten days every year during the Fêtes de Jeanne d’Arc, culminating on the 8^th of May.

Rue Jeanne d’Arc leads to Cathedral Sainte-Croix, one of the highlights of the city. The grand cathedral, which is free to enter, illustrates the exciting life of Jeanne d’Arc in ten large stained-glass windows, including her tragic end at the stake in Rouen.

After dark from mid-May through early September, and again from late November to early January, there is a free sound and light show projected onto the façade of the cathedral. You won’t want to miss this spectacular show!

The small downtown of Orléans is also worth exploring. Wander the streets of the Bourgogne quarter and admire the half-timbered and Renaissance buildings. Visit the house of Jeanne d’Arc (3 Place du General de Gaulle), where she stayed during the siege.

Take a break in the pedestrianized main square, Place du Martroi, where there is a bronze statue of Jeanne d’Arc on a horse.

Stroll the Quai de la Loire and lounge in one of the deck chairs that line the banks of the Loire River, or sip on a drink at one of the riverside bars.

15. Rouen

Rouen is a great choice for a day trip from Paris.  Start your journey at the Paris St. Lazare Station and in just under an hour and a half, you’ll arrive in the center of medieval Rouen.

Rouen contains nearly 2,000 half-timbered houses. Just by wandering the cobbled streets, you will spot stunning ancient buildings and historical sites.

Rouen is of course famous as the city where Joan of Arc was martyred. It also houses the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, within which are the tombs of Rollo the Viking, William the Conqueror, and Richard the Lionheart’s tomb (which contains his heart!).

Rouen is also a destination for foodies.  While eating at La Couronne in Rouen’s Place du Vieux Marché, Julia Child decided to learn to become a French Chef. 

Rouen cuisine has even been distinguished by UNESCO, which crowned Rouen a “creative city” in gastronomy in 2021, the first French city to obtain this label.

The main square of Rouen, the Place du Vieux Marché, is where Joan of Arc was martyred in 1431.  Today you’ll a modern church built in her honor, as well as many restaurants, cafés, and markets. 

Follow the story of Joan of Arc at the Museum Historical Jeanne d’Arc, or visit the Tour Jeanne d’Arc, the tower where she was imprisoned.

Be sure to take the short walk from the main square to see the Gros Horloge.  This enormous clock dates from the 14^th century and is the oldest astronomical clock in France.

Stop by the Church of Saint-Maclou, an intricately decorated gothic church.  Across the road you’ll find the Ossuary of Saint-Maclou, a cemetery where plague victims were buried in the 1300’s.

Macabre carvings around the lintels and doors surrounding the central courtyard depict skulls, bones, picks, axes and shovels; all icons of burial. 

16. Bruges

Located 2.5 hours from Paris by train, Bruges makes a wonderful destination for a day trip.

The old city with its beautiful architecture is a stunning place to wander for the day. You can explore the ancient streets, see the beautiful canals, and tour the top highlights of Bruges in just one day.

The stunning Grote Markt (market square) in Bruges is filled with historic buildings and places to explore, including the ornate Provinciaal Hof (Provincial Court building) and the Belfry of Bruges. 

The Belfry, built in the 13^th century, is one of the most distinctive buildings in the city. Visitors can climb the 366 steps of the belfry for incredible views of the city. It is also one of the Belfries that are among the UNESCO Heritage sites within Belgium.

Many of Bruges’ highlights are located nearby Burg Square.  The 14^th-century Stadhuis (City Hall) boasts a beautiful interior including an intricately carved ceiling.  On another corner of the square sits the Basilica of the Holy Blood.

Bruges contains many fantastic museums. If you’re a fan of art, you’ll want to visit the Groeninge Museum to see the incredible Flemish artwork. 

Also be sure to stop by Saint John’s Hospital, one of the oldest hospitals in Europe. Learn about the ancient wards, pharmacy, and chapel of this impressive historic hospital and visit its medical museum.

Viewing the city by canal is a stunning option for visitors. Most of the tours tend to be between 30 – 60 minutes and there are plenty of spots throughout the city where you can pick one up.

You can’t visit Bruges without sampling some of its iconic foods! Whether you’re sampling local beers or learning the secrets of Belgian chocolate-making, you can’t go wrong on a food tour of Bruges!

(On our recent visit to Bruges, we were amazed by just how good the waffles are. They’re not like waffles in the US!)

17. Bordeaux

When on the lookout for the best day trips from Paris you have to consider Bordeaux.

Traveling from Paris to Bordeaux by train is simple — just board a direct train at the Paris Montparnasse station, and in only two hours you’ll arrive at Bordeaux St-Jean.  Then a short walk gets you to the heart of the city.

Bordeaux is the capital of the Aquitaine region and the sixth-largest city in France.  And, of course, Bordeaux and its region are famous for prestigious red wines.

Visit museums and wineries where you can learn all about wine and have truly unique experiences with different wine-tasting classes and tours.

You have dozens of options in and around Bordeaux. Don’t miss the incredible Cité du Vin, one of the most interesting French museums!

It is no secret that people travel from all over the world to taste the exquisite wines from this specific region, however, Bordeaux is not all about wine.

Some of the best things to do in Bordeaux revolve around the city’s historic monuments and incredible architecture.  Start off your visit with a customizable private walking tour of Bordeaux to make sure you don’t miss any highlights.

You’ll want to visit the stunning Romanesque Bordeaux Cathedral, the Cathédrale Saint-André de Bordeaux.  Climb the Gothic bell tower, the Tour Pey Berland, and enjoy amazing 360° views of the city.  

Stop by the impressive Porte Cailhau – this castle-like structure was once the main gate into Bordeaux.  And the Grosse Cloche monument, one of the oldest belfries in France, lies in the heart of the city.

If you like shopping, then a must-visit place is the Marché des Capucines – this local market is the perfect location to pick up some locally made French souvenirs or supplies for a picnic lunch.

Make the most of your trip to Bordeaux with this half-day wine-tasting trip and winery visit to the renowned grand cru estate of St. Emilion!

18. Provins

If you’re looking for a day trip from Paris that takes you back to Medieval times, then look no further than Provins.  It’s easy to reach Provins by train in just a 1.5-hour journey from the Gare de l’Est train station via line P.

While Provins has two sides to it, the old and the newer, it’s the medieval area that will impress you the most.

One step through its fortified walls and you’ll be transported back in time to the Middle Ages.  Spend some time walking through the charming streets of Provins as you admire the medieval half-timbered houses.   

The highlight of any visit to Provins is the Caesar Tower, or Tour César. 

This 12^th century watchtower is home to the bells of the nearby Collégiale Saint-Quiriace church. In addition to its impressive structure and history, the tower also offers stunning views of the entire area.

Besides the tower, another memorable thing to do in Provins is to walk on its fortified walls.  The city walls date back to the 11th and 13th centuries, though most of them have been restored in recent years.

Spend some time inside the Collégiale Saint-Quiriace church or head underground to discover the medieval tunnels of Provins.   

If you’re traveling with kids or want a glimpse of how people used to live in the previous era, don’t miss the Legend of the Knights show (La Légende des Chevaliers spectacle Equestrio).

While any time is a good time to visit Provins, June offers a unique opportunity to attend the Les Médiévales De Provins.   This festival highlights the French culture and traditions as well as the music, and costumes of old Provins. 

If you visit in December, you’ll be able to visit a Medieval Christmas market.

19. Bayeux

Bayeux, a town in the Normandy region of France, makes a fantastic day trip from Paris.

It’s easy to get from Paris to Bayeux. Catch a train from the Paris St. Lazare station and in just over two hours, you’ll arrive in Bayeux. And then it’s a short ten-minute walk to the main city center.

Travelers flock to Bayeux from all over the globe in order to view the UNESCO World Heritage-listed tapestry.

The famed Bayeux Tapestry is a woven piece of art that stretches to more than 230 feet long. It depicts the Norman (Viking) conquest of England, which occurred in 1066.

The Tapestry is housed in its own museum, the Musée de la Tapisserie de Bayeux.  Note that there are plans for it to be loaned to a UK museum in a few years, so check before you go.

(We saw the Bayeux Tapestry on our first visit to France — many years ago. It’s an incredible artifact. Look closely for some funny characters sewn into the design!)

You’ll also want to visit another Bayeux highlight, the gorgeous Bayeux Cathedral.  This massive house of worship stuns visitors with the beauty of its Norman Romanesque and Gothic architecture.   It was also likely the original home of the Bayeux Tapestry.

In addition to the tapestry, the historic center of Bayeux is filled with buildings dating back to the Middle Ages.

This area is filled with charming boutiques, bakeries, and restaurants. It is the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around, getting “lost” in this small town.

Many people visit Bayeux because of its proximity to some of the most important World War II sites in Normandy.  Indeed, there are many full-day or half-day tours of WWII sites that you can take from Bayeux.

However, Bayeux itself has a fantastic Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy as well as the Bayeux War Cemetery and Memorial. Both of these are well worth a visit during a day trip to the city.

Bayeux is tantalizingly close to the magnificent Mont St. Michel.  If you plan to stay in Bayeux for an extra day, you can take a full-day tour of Mont Saint-Michel to experience the beauty of this landmark of France.

20. Colmar

Colmar, a small town in the Alsace region of northeastern France, is a picture-perfect destination for a day trip from Paris. 

Start at the Paris-Est station and enjoy a lovely 2.5-hour ride through the French countryside.  Some routes require a change of trains in Strasbourg, so look for trains with direct service to Colmar.

If you can imagine a Disney fairytale town with cobbled streets and quaint cottages, you’ll get a pretty good idea of what Colmar looks like.

Colmar is an Instagram-worthy beautiful French town that is often referred to as Little Venice or “Petite Venise”, with colorful homes lining the canal.

Be sure to check off all of Colmar’s highlights during your day trip.  Admire the Gothic architecture and medieval statues of St. Martin’s Church.  Tour the Bartholdi Museum to see the works of Auguste Bartholdi, best known as the creator of the Statue of Liberty. 

Wander along the canal and then on to Old Town to peruse cafes, shops and boutiques filled with hidden treasures and amazing French pastries.

Take a canal cruise to appreciate vibrant Colmar from a different point of view, or take a guided segway tour of Colmar’s attractions.

If you happen to visit during the Christmas season, you’ll enjoy experiencing the six Christmas markets in Old Town.  (Christmas is one of the best French holidays!) Be sure to try the traditional Alsatian biscuits!

Summertime is also a great time to visit Colmar.  The blooming flower boxes provide an extra explosion of color on the half-timbered homes and along the canal.   Have your camera at the ready!

On this half-day Alsace wine tour, enjoy sampling local wines and learning about local history and culture while visiting picturesque villages of Alsace such as Hunawhir, Riquewihr, and Eguisheim!

21. Luxembourg

Want to check another European country off of your travel bucket list?  It’s easy to visit Luxembourg from Paris by train. 

The fastest train journey takes just over two hours, with 20 trains per day from Paris to Luxembourg City.

Luxembourg is a great choice for a day trip from Paris, since you can explore most parts of the city on foot.  Luxembourg offers a variety of activities to enjoy, and since it is a small town, you can see many of its highlights in just one day.

Explore the Grund, one of Luxembourg’s oldest neighborhoods and part of Luxembourg’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Be sure to tour Luxembourg’s historic defenses and walk along the Chemin de la Corniche.  This pedestrian promenade along Luxembourg’s fortified walls gives you superb views of the city!

The streets of the city are mostly cobblestone and lined with trees.  And there are plenty of verdant parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Discover the rich history of the historical castles. The Vianden Castle is by far the most visited of all the castles in Luxembourg.  Since it’s located about 50 km from Luxembourg City, a day tour to Vianden is the easiest way to see this impressive fortified castle.

Experience the flavor of sparkling wine. If you find yourself in Luxembourg, you owe it to yourself to visit at least one of the country’s vineyards! 

Enjoy a Luxembourg City walking and wine-tasting tour and treat yourself to a sampling of some of the best wines in the world. 

Tip: You’ll be doing a lot of walking in Luxembourg, so don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes!

22. Blois

If you are looking to get away from the noise and bustle of Paris, Blois is the perfect destination for a day trip. It takes just under an hour and a half to get to Blois by direct train from the Gare d’Austerlitz in Paris.

Blois is an impressive medieval town with cobblestone streets and half-timbered buildings. It is situated in the valley of the Loire River and is the capital of the Loir-et-Cher department in Central France.

Begin your adventure by visiting the famous castle of Château Royal de Blois (it’s just a 10-minute walk from the train station). 

Seven French kings have lived in this stunning 13^th-century Gothic castle. The beauty of this château, from its magnificent staircase to its incredible paintings, will leave you speechless.

There are also other great things to do in Blois. Wander through the city’s old charming town filled with historic buildings including the Cathédrale Saint-Louis, with its Renaissance tower.  

For a one-of a kind experience, visit the Robert-Houdin House of Magic, a unique museum showcasing the history of magic and modern tricks.

Experience wine tasting in the Loire Valley and sip locally produced wines.  Don’t forget to visit one of the traditional restaurants in Blois!  Sample delicious gazpacho and perfectly cooked escargots a Le Castelet.

The ideal time to visit Blois is from late April to September, and these months have less rainfall, so that you can enjoy some outdoor activities.

The Loire Valley is famous for its incredibly beautiful châteaux.  Take this half-day châteaux tour from Blois to see the stunning Château de Chambord and Château de Cheverny!

23. Dijon

Dijon, the capital of the historic Burgundy region of France, is a wonderful choice for a day trip from Paris.  Catch a direct TGV (high speed train) from Paris Gare de Lyon, and you’ll arrive in Dijon in under an hour and a half.

Start your day in Dijon with a visit the nearby Darcy Gardens, one of Dijon’s most popular city parks. 

This park is named for French engineer Henri Darcy, who made significant contributions to the field of hydraulics.  (Given that hubby Chris is a hydrologist, he was definitely geeking out on our visit to this park and telling me about the famous Darcy’s Law.)

The Darcy Gardens are also the first stop on the Owl’s Trail, or le Parcours de la Chouette. 

Follow the route set by arrows embedded in the streets and look for markers.  This is an easy way to ensure you see all of Dijon’s highlights, from the Church of Notre-Dame to the Palais des Ducs, a medieval palace which is now a fine-arts museum.   

Tip: The owl is a symbol of Dijon, so be sure to look for the carved owl on the Church of Notre-Dame.  Rubbing the carving is supposed to bring you good luck!

Along the way, you’ll enjoy the incredible architecture of Dijon.  Be sure to look up at the rooftops to see the colorful glazed roof tiles.  These vibrant geometric patterns are a traditional style of the Burgundy region of France.

And speaking of Burgundy, you’ll of course want to sample some of the regional wines and Burgundian cuisine during your day trip to Dijon! 

Dijon is synonymous with mustard, and you’ll enjoy hearty dishes like coq au vin and boeuf bourguignon.  Save room for some pain d’épices, a local gingerbread.

Learn about the rich wine culture of the Burgundy region on this 5-star Burgundy wine-tasting experience in a vaulted wine cellar!

Map of Best Day Trips from Paris

Not quite sure about the geography of France and where all these day trip cities are located?

Here’s a map to give you a feel for the relative locations of these cities. You might even choose to make a weekend trip and group a few cities together if they are close to each other!