10 Best Day Trips From Paris
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GAFFL
3rd Dec | 6 min read

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    Paris, as one of the most stunning cities in the world, is a fantastic vacation spot. When visiting Paris, it's tempting to spend all your time in the City of Lights, but if you want a change of pace and to see more of France, why not take a day trip? We've compiled a list of the top 10 day trips from Paris so you don't have to miss out. From exploring stunning castles to sampling the local cuisine, these day trips are sure to make your Parisian vacation even more special.


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    1. Visit the Palace of Versailles

    The Palace of Versailles is absolutely stunning, and the grounds are beautiful and well-kept. There is so much to see and do at the palace, and you could easily spend a whole day there.

    One of the highlights of the palace is the Hall of Mirrors, which is a breathtaking room. The walls are mirrored, and the ceiling is adorned with beautiful paintings. The room is also very long, giving the impression that you're walking through an endless hallway.

    The gardens at the palace are also worth a visit. They are very well-kept and there are many different areas to explore. There is a large lake in the middle of the gardens, and you can even take a boat ride around it.

    Overall, the Palace of Versailles is a great place to visit. There is so much to see and do, and it's a truly beautiful place.


    2. Visit the Auvers-sur-Oise village

    Auvers-sur-Oise is a quaint village located in the Val d'Oise department of northern France, about 30 km from Paris. it's best known for being the home of the famous painter Vincent van Gogh, who chose the village as his final resting place in 1890. The village is full of history, with many of its buildings and monuments still in their original state. Visitors to the village can explore the many art galleries, festivals, and events related to van Gogh and his artwork. There are also a number of walking and cycling routes that take in the picturesque views of the surrounding countryside. With its charming atmosphere, Auvers-sur-Oise is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful retreat.


    3. See the sights of Rouen

    Rouen is a beautiful city in northern France with a rich history that dates back to the 12th century. it's situated on the banks of the Seine River, and is well known for its spectacular Gothic architecture. The city's most iconic landmark is the stunning Rouen Cathedral, a grand Gothic cathedral that is considered to be one of the finest in the world. Visitors can also explore the city's many museums and galleries, or wander through its charming cobblestone streets. With its picturesque setting and lively atmosphere, Rouen is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of France.


    4. Tour the Loire Valley castles

    The Loire Valley in France is home to a stunning collection of castles, from grand Renaissance chateaux to ancient fortresses. These majestic castles have stood proudly for centuries, serving as a reminder of the country’s rich history and culture. From the ornate Château de Chambord to the imposing Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, the region is filled with a diverse array of beautiful architectural styles. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a cultural experience, the Loire Valley castles offer something for everyone. Explore the grand courtyards, secret gardens, and stunning views along the Loire River as you wander through this historic region.


    5. A tour of the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey

    Mont Saint-Michel Abbey is a great place to visit as a day trip from Paris because it's a beautiful and historic site. The Abbey is located on a small island in the English Channel, and it's a popular tourist destination. The Abbey was founded in the 8th century, and it's a Romanesque-style building. It's surrounded by a wall, and there are three gates that lead to the main courtyard. The Abbey has a tower that is open to the public, and there are many stairs that lead to the top of the tower. This is a beautiful building, and it's a great place to visit if you are interested in history or architecture.


    6. Explore beautiful Fontainebleau

    Fontainebleau is a charming town located near Paris. It's home to the majestic Château de Fontainebleau, a grand Renaissance palace and former royal residence. The grand palace is surrounded by more than 130,000 acres of forest and parkland, offering visitors a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. The forest is home to a variety of wildlife and the perfect place to explore. The town itself is filled with quaint cobblestone streets, quaint cafés and shops, and charming churches. Fontainebleau is an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway or a romantic escape.


    7. A walk through the stunning gardens at Giverny

    Giverny is a small village in the French region of Normandy, located around 75 miles northwest of Paris. It's most famously known as the home of impressionist painter Claude Monet, who lived in the village from 1883 until his death in 1926. Today, Giverny is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful gardens, quaint streets, and charming atmosphere. Visitors can wander through Monet's gardens, view his famous house, and visit the Musée des Impressionnismes. Giverny is also home to many galleries, gardens, and monuments, making it a great destination to explore and appreciate the beauty of nature.


    8. A visit to the historic city of Reims

    There are many reasons to visit the historic city of Reims as a day trip from Paris. For one, Reims is home to the world-famous Champagne region, and a visit to the city wouldn't be complete without a tour of a Champagne house and a tasting. Another reason to visit Reims is its incredible history. The city was the coronation site for French kings for centuries, and as a result, is home to a number of beautiful Gothic churches and other historic buildings. Finally, Reims is also an excellent place to sample some of the best French food and wine. With so much to see and do, a day trip to Reims is sure to be a memorable one!


    9. A tour of the beautiful Burgundy wine region

    Burgundy is one of the most renowned and celebrated wine regions in the world, located in the east of France in the Côte d'Or region. This region is known for its production of world-class red and white wines, produced primarily from the Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Burgundy’s winemakers are renowned for their meticulous attention to detail in crafting wines that have a unique character and complexity. Wines from Burgundy are known for their intense aromas and flavors of red fruits, spices, and earthy minerals, and they are prized by wine connoisseurs worldwide. Burgundy also has a thriving food culture and is home to some of France’s most iconic dishes, such as Boeuf Bourguignon and Coq au Vin. Burgundy is a beautiful region to explore and its wines are a must-try for any wine lover.


    10. A day exploring the charming medieval town of Avignon

    Avignon is a beautiful city in the south of France, located on the banks of the Rhone River. It's known for its stunning architecture, from the imposing Palais des Papes to the elegant Pont Saint-Bénézet, and for its vibrant culture, with a rich and colourful history. Avignon is home to a fantastic selection of restaurants, bars and cafes, as well as a variety of museums, galleries and theaters. Its location in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region makes it a great destination for exploring the stunning countryside of this part of France, as well as the nearby cities of Arles, Aix-en-Provence and Marseille. Avignon offers something for everyone, from its magnificent architecture to its vibrant cultural life, making it an ideal destination for a holiday.


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