Some of France’s greatest treasures are less than an hour from Paris. Royal palaces, a painter’s garden, forests and Champagne cellars make perfect escapes when you need a break from the city’s pace. Here are my favourite day trips, all doable by train – no car needed.
How to choose
- First time in Paris? Versailles.
- Art and flowers? Giverny, from spring to autumn.
- Fewer crowds? Chantilly or Fontainebleau.
- Champagne? Reims.
- Medieval old town? Rouen.
Versailles
Why go
The Palace of Versailles, with the Hall of Mirrors, the State Apartments and Le Nôtre’s immense gardens, is the ultimate royal day out. Add the Trianons and Marie-Antoinette’s Hamlet, and the day flies by.
How to get there
RER C to Versailles Château Rive Gauche, or trains from Saint-Lazare or Montparnasse – around 40 minutes.
Good to know
The palace is closed on Mondays and busiest at the end of the morning: arrive early with a timed ticket.
Tours and activities in Paris
Giverny
Why go
Monet’s House and Gardens, with the famous water-lily pond, the Japanese bridge and the flower garden, are pure magic. The pink house with green shutters keeps Monet’s collection of Japanese prints.
How to get there
Train from Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny (about 45 minutes), then a shuttle, a bike or a walk of about 5 km.
Good to know
The gardens open only from spring to autumn. May and June are spectacular for flowers; the water lilies bloom in summer.
Chantilly
Why go
The Château de Chantilly holds one of France’s finest collections of old paintings in the Musée Condé, and its Great Stables host the Horse Museum and equestrian shows. Le Nôtre designed the gardens here too. Try the real crème Chantilly.
How to get there
Train from Gare du Nord to Chantilly-Gouvieux, about 25 minutes.
Good to know
Far less crowded than Versailles – a great choice for a relaxed day.
Fontainebleau
Why go
The Palace of Fontainebleau, home to French rulers for eight centuries, from medieval kings to Napoleon III. See the Renaissance Gallery of Francis I, Napoleon’s throne room and the horseshoe staircase where he bade farewell to his Guard. The vast forest is famous for walking and bouldering.
How to get there
Train from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon (about 40 minutes), then a short bus ride.
Good to know
The palace is closed on Tuesdays.
Reims
Why go
Champagne cellar tours in the chalk cellars of the great houses, and the Gothic Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned for centuries.
How to get there
TGV from Gare de l’Est in about 45 minutes.
Good to know
Book cellar visits in advance; many houses offer tastings.
Rouen
Why go
A half-timbered old town, the Gothic cathedral painted again and again by Monet, the Great Clock and the memory of Joan of Arc, who was tried and executed here.
How to get there
Train from Saint-Lazare, about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Good to know
Rouen pairs well with Giverny if you stay overnight in Normandy.
Tips for day trips
- Book trains in advance for TGV routes; regional trains can be bought on the day.
- Start early to make the most of the day and avoid the crowds.
- Check opening days of palaces and gardens before you go: many close on Mondays or Tuesdays.
- Pack a picnic: palace gardens and forests are perfect for lunch outdoors.
- Wear comfortable shoes: royal estates are huge.
Back in Paris
Plan your days in the city with our 3-day Paris itinerary, choose a base close to the right station in where to stay in Paris, and check the best time to visit – Giverny and the palace gardens are at their best from spring to early autumn.
