Top-Rated Day Trips from Paris

The astonishing beauty of Chartres Cathedral inspired the whole world and even the most skeptical. A day trip from Paris to this UNESCO World Heritage Site demonstrates why: this French masterpiece showcases medieval Gothic architecture, and its stain-glass windows give the cathedral's vast nave a peaceful glow. The cathedral's filtered light creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Stunning windows with intricate details astonish viewers. As a matter of fact, there are windows dating back to the 12th century, such as Notre Dame de la Belle Verriere. A particular highlight of them are the huge roses. Some of the most famous windows include La Vie de la Vierge (Life of the Virgin), and L'Arbre de Jesse (Tree of Jesse), which displays the genealogy tree of Jesus Christ. A spectacular light show is held every evening in Chartres from April until the holidays with illuminations of the historic buildings of Chartres, including the cathedral. Free concerts are offered every Sunday in July and August by the Grand Prix de Chartres (International Organ Festival).

D-Day played a key role in World War II when the Allies gained a favorable advantage. The wartime bunkers and tanks still stand on the sandy beaches where they were landed. It is a moving experience for many Americans to visit Normandy's D-Day beaches. One of the bloodiest battles of D-Day took place on Omaha Beach. The largest American cemetery in Normandy is located overlooking Omaha Beach. The Overlord Museum recounts the D-Day landings and the Liberation of Paris nearby. In Caen Mémorial Museum, you can learn more about World War II military history and the Battle of Normandy. A day trip from Paris to the Normandy landing beaches is the best way to discover the history of the D-Day battles in Normandy. During your day trip from Paris, plan a visit to Omaha Beach, Arromanches, and the Caen Memorial Museum and why not take a guided tour for insight into the D-Day battles in a historical context.

What are some great day trip destinations from Paris?

Paris is perfectly located for exploring nearby attractions, and there are plenty of options for a memorable day trip. Here are a few top destinations you can easily reach within a short train ride or bus ride from the city:

• Versailles Palace and Gardens: Only about 30 minutes by train from Paris, this iconic palace and its beautiful gardens are a must-see for history and art lovers. It’s a day trip that’s definitely worth it!
• Reims: Located in the Champagne region, Reims is famous for its stunning vineyards and the historic Reims Cathedral. You can take a train from Paris in about an hour, making it a perfect one day excursion.
• Claude Monet’s House and Gardens: A short ride from Paris to Giverny, where you can visit the famous artist’s home and beautiful gardens, known for inspiring many of his masterpieces. This is ideal for anyone interested in art and nature.
• Forest of Fontainebleau: If you're looking for a more relaxing and natural experience, the forest near Fontainebleau is great for hiking and exploring medieval castles.
• Mont Saint-Michel: Though a bit farther away, this European gem is worth the journey, with its dramatic island abbey and picturesque town.

How do I get to these destinations from Paris?

There are various ways to reach these beautiful locations from Paris, and the best option depends on your time and preferences:

• Train: Many of these day trips, like Reims or Versailles Palace, are easily accessible by train from Paris. The Gare du Nord or Gare Montparnasse are common departure points for these routes. You can usually get to your destination within an hour or so.
• Bus: For a more affordable option, taking a bus is another way to reach places like the Champagne region or the Forest of Fontainebleau. It’s a bit slower but can be more scenic and comfortable for the journey.
• Private Tours: If you’re looking for a more tailored experience, consider booking a guided tour or a day trip destination package. This gives you a local guide and often includes transportation and tickets to attractions.

How much time should I spend exploring these places?

The amount of time you’ll need for your day trip depends on what you want to do and how much you want to explore:

• Half day: A visit to Claude Monet’s House or Fontainebleau can be done in about half a day, especially if you're just looking to enjoy the gardens and main sites.
• One day: For destinations like Reims or Versailles, you’ll want to allocate at least one day to explore the town or palace at a leisurely pace. This gives you plenty of time to see the main attractions and enjoy the local food.
• Plenty of time: For places like Mont Saint-Michel, you'll likely need a full day to truly enjoy everything, including the castle and surrounding areas. Plan for a train ride that may take a few hours, but it’s absolutely worth the visit.