The Best Day Trips from Paris

Paris has more than enough to keep you busy, but some of the most rewarding experiences happen just outside the city. Thanks to France’s high-speed trains and regional rail, you can be in a new town, garden, or even another city in under two hours. Here are some of the best day trips from Paris — each offering a totally different vibe while still being easy to reach.

Versailles – A Royal Escape Just Outside Paris

If you only have time for one day trip from Paris, Versailles is the one that most people choose — and for good reason. The palace is jaw-dropping, packed with ornate details, and surrounded by sprawling gardens that seem to go on forever. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down and imagine what life was like centuries ago.

The Orangery

The Orangery is one of the most unique parts of Versailles. It’s a huge, open space designed to protect orange trees during the winter, with wide terraces and sweeping views of the grounds. Today, it feels more like a giant garden courtyard — calm, spacious, and perfect for a walk. Standing there, you get a clear sense of how carefully planned the palace grounds were, and it’s one of the best spots for taking in the scale of Versailles without feeling rushed.

The Estate of Trianon

If the main palace feels overwhelming, the Estate of Trianon is like Versailles’ quieter side. Here, the Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon were once used as royal retreats, away from the bustle and strict rules of court life. The buildings are elegant but far less crowded, giving you the chance to slow down and actually enjoy the atmosphere. The surrounding grounds have wide paths and open views, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed walk after exploring the grandeur of the main palace.

• Opens at 12:00 PM (noon) when the main palace is open 
• High season: until ~6:30 PM 
• Low season: until ~5:30 PM

The Grand Canal

One of the most striking parts of the Versailles estate is the Grand Canal, a massive waterway stretching almost a mile long. It was designed not just for looks, but also for boating and grand celebrations in the 17th century. Today, it’s a beautiful place to walk along or even rent a small rowboat if you want a more relaxed experience. The views from here show the palace in the distance, framed by open skies and tree-lined paths — a totally different perspective than you get inside the main palace.

Where to stay in Versailles

Hôtel La Résidence du Berry 

Hôtel La Résidence du Berry feels more like a cozy neighborhood stay than a big hotel. It’s right in the Saint-Louis area of Versailles, so you can walk to the palace in just a few minutes. The rooms are simple but comfortable, and you’ve got cafés, bakeries, and the train station close by, which makes it super convenient if you’re heading back to Paris.

Giverny – Monet’s Peaceful Garden Retreat

If Paris feels busy and non-stop, Giverny is the antidote. This charming village, about an hour from the city, was home to Claude Monet for more than 40 years. Walking around here, it’s easy to see why he never wanted to leave. Everything is slower, greener, and more peaceful — the perfect contrast to city life.

Monet’s House

Monet’s house still feels like a home rather than a museum. The rooms are full of color and personality, decorated with Japanese prints, rustic furniture, and views of the gardens from almost every angle. You can imagine him living here, sketching ideas for his next painting.

• April 1 – November 1: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM; last entry around 5:30 PM
• Closed certain holidays (Dec 25, Jan 1) 

The Gardens

The gardens are the heart of Giverny. Layered flower beds burst with color depending on the season, and the famous water lily pond is exactly as serene as you’d expect from his paintings. Cross the small Japanese bridge, pause for a while, and you’ll see why this spot inspired some of the most famous art in the world.

Where to stay in Giverny

Le Coin des Artistes

Le Coin des Artistes is a small, welcoming spot that feels more like a neighborhood guesthouse than a hotel. The rooms are simple and homey, and the location makes it easy to get around on foot. It’s the kind of place where you feel comfortable right away — nothing flashy, just a cozy base for exploring the area.

Disneyland Paris – A Fun Change of Pace

If you’re looking for something lighthearted, Disneyland Paris is an easy day trip. It’s close enough to Paris for a full day of fun, and whether you’re traveling with kids or just want a nostalgic break, it delivers a completely different vibe from the city.

Disneyland Park

This is the heart of the resort, with the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle at its center. Classic rides like Pirates of the Caribbean and It’s a Small World are here, along with roller coasters and themed lands that feel straight out of the movies. The design details are what make it special — every corner has something to catch your eye.

If you’re planning a visit, it’s usually easiest to book your admission ticket online ahead of time — that way you skip the lines at the gate and lock in your date. Check ticket options here.

Walt Disney Studios Park

This park leans more toward film and TV themes. You’ll find attractions inspired by Pixar and Marvel, plus stage shows and behind-the-scenes-style experiences. It’s a little smaller than the main park, but it packs in plenty for a full afternoon.

• Generally opens ~9:30 AM. Closing times vary by season/events & park (could be as late as 10–11 PM during peak / special events)

The Parades and Shows

Parades run through the main park during the day, often featuring favorite characters and music that keeps the energy high. If you can stay until evening, the fireworks and light show over the castle are worth it — it feels like a grand finale to the day before catching the train back to Paris.

Rouen – Storybook Normandy

Rouen blends medieval charm with a relaxed, small-city feel. It’s less crowded than Paris but still full of history, and walking its cobblestone streets feels like stepping back in time.

Rouen Old Town

The Old Town is the kind of place where you’ll want to slow down and wander. Half-timbered houses line narrow streets, many of which are dotted with boutiques, bakeries, and cozy cafés. It’s a great spot for photography, but also for simply soaking in the atmosphere.

The Gros Horloge

This ornate 14th-century astronomical clock sits above a Renaissance archway on one of the main pedestrian streets. Its golden details shine against the old timbered houses, and it’s one of Rouen’s most photographed landmarks. Take your time walking under it — it’s even more impressive up close.

Where to stay in Rouen

Aparthotel Adagio Access Rouen Centre Cathédrale

Aparthotel Adagio Access Rouen Centre Cathédrale is a practical pick if you want extra space and flexibility. The studios come with small kitchens, so you can cook simple meals instead of always eating out. It’s right in the center of Rouen, just a short walk from the main sights, which makes it easy to explore the city on foot and then come back to relax.

Lille – A Different City Vibe

Lille has a completely different feel compared to other French cities. It mixes French and Flemish influences, giving it a style that stands out and a slightly more northern European atmosphere.

La Vieille Bourse (The Old Stock Exchange)

Right in the center of Lille, La Vieille Bourse is one of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Built in the 1600s, its Flemish Renaissance architecture stands out with ornate details and colorful facades. Step inside the courtyard and you’ll often find second-hand book stalls, flower sellers, or even people playing chess. It feels lively but still laid-back, and it’s a great spot to soak up the city’s unique mix of culture and history.

Old Town Streets

The Old Town (Vieux-Lille) is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets filled with boutiques, chocolate shops, and bakeries. The Flemish-style architecture gives the area a unique character that feels different from Paris — colorful facades, tall gables, and a cozy atmosphere.

Citadel Park

If you want some fresh air, head to the green spaces around Lille’s Citadel. The park is large and peaceful, with tree-lined paths, open lawns, and even a small zoo. It’s a nice way to break up the day and slow down after exploring the busy streets.

Where to stay in Lille

B&B HOTEL Lille Lillenium Eurasanté 

B&B HOTEL Lille Lillenium Eurasanté keeps things simple and comfortable. The rooms are modern, clean, and practical, and you’ll have easy access to public transport for getting around Lille. It’s a good choice if you’re looking for a straightforward place to stay while exploring the city.

Travel Tips for Day Trips from Paris

• Leave early: The earlier you head out, the more relaxed your day will feel. Trains can get busy later in the morning, so catching one around 8–9 AM makes a big difference.
• Book in advance when you can: Popular spots like Versailles and Disneyland Paris often sell out, so it’s worth securing tickets before you go.
• Check return times: Trains usually run late, but the last one back to Paris can be earlier than expected. Double-check so you’re not rushing.
• Travel light: A small backpack with water, a snack, and comfortable shoes is all you really need. Most of these places are walk-heavy.
• Mix city and countryside: Pair a busy Paris itinerary with at least one slower day trip (like Giverny or Chartres). It balances your trip nicely.
• Use nearby stations: Many attractions are just a short walk from the train station, so you don’t need to worry about extra transport once you arrive.

Wrap Up

Paris has no shortage of things to see, but stepping outside the city for a day adds a whole new layer to your trip. Whether it’s walking through royal halls at Versailles, drifting through Monet’s gardens in Giverny, or soaking up the energy at Disneyland Paris, each of these day trips shows you a different side of France without straying too far. The best part is, they’re all close enough that you can enjoy them and still be back in Paris by evening. If you’ve got a little extra time in your itinerary, setting aside a day or two for an escape beyond the city is more than worth it.