19 Best Day Trips from Paris by Train

Sharing is caring!

Paris is a fantastic city. This is undeniable and anyone who’s going city hopping in Europe will probably have Paris high on their bucket list. However, for those who want to explore a little more of France outside of the city’s capital, there are lots of fantastic day trips from Paris by train that you can take.

While Paris attracts visitors worldwide with iconic landmarks, charming streets, and rich culture, a lot is waiting just beyond the city limits. Plus, since they are all easily accessible by train, it’s simply a case of making your way to the train station in central Paris. 

The speed and efficiency of direct trains in Europe mean you can see a wide range of sights within just a couple of hours’ travel, from the rolling French countryside to a completely different country!

Day Trips From Paris by Train in France

Whether you’re looking for hidden gems, the diverse beauty of the French countryside, charming medieval towns, or vineyard-draped hillsides, these Paris day trips by train are perfect for those who love history, culture, or simply a breath of fresh country air.

1. Loire Valley

Distance from Paris: 100 km

Time to get there: 1.5 – 2.5 hours by train 

This beautiful destination is the perfect train trip from Paris if you fancy a contrast to the bustling city life. The high-speed TGV trains make the journey swift and comfortable, with the travel time averaging around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the specific destination within the Loire Valley.

The Loire Valley is mostly known for its fairytale-like châteaux, lush vineyards, and picturesque landscapes. One of the must-visit sites is the majestic Château de Chambord, a Renaissance masterpiece with its iconic spiral staircase and beautiful gardens. 

The Château de Chenonceau, spanning the River Cher, is another gem, with elegant architecture and more gorgeous gardens.

Wine enthusiasts will also love it here as the vineyards and cellars produce some of the region’s best wines. There’s also an abundance of beautiful places such as Amboise or Tours, where you can soak in the local atmosphere, indulge in delicious French cuisine, go on a wine tasting, and perhaps visit the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci at the Château d’Amboise.

The Loire Valley day trip is a perfect fit for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the city hustle of Paris.

Book a private tour from Paris to Loire Valley here!

2. Versailles

Distance from Paris: 44 km

Time to get there: 30 minutes by train

Possibly one of the most popular day trips from Paris by train is to the infamous Palace of Versailles. This beautiful destination is just a short distance from the capital and you can get there in about 30 minutes. Many guided tours leave Paris each day for the Palace of Versailles, so it’s a very easy-to-reach destination.

Versailles is a very impressive destination but at the heart of it all stands the breathtaking Palace. Here, you can marvel at the Hall of Mirrors, stroll through the meticulously manicured Gardens of Versailles, explore the royal apartments, and immerse yourself in the splendour of French history.

The estate also encompasses the Trianon Palaces and the Queen’s Hamlet, each offering a unique glimpse into the lives of the French monarchy.

After exploring the interior, you can also take a leisurely walk through the expansive gardens. You’ll find fountains, sculptures, and the Grand Canal here, and it’s a great place to relax amongst the greenery. 

If you have time, I highly recommend watching the captivating Musical Fountain Show or Musical Gardens event, where the estate comes alive with music and choreographed water displays.

Book tickets to the Palace of Versailles from Paris here!

3. Dijon

Distance from Paris: 315 km

Time to get there: 1 hour and 40 minutes by train

Another great city in France to visit, Dijon isn’t too far from the capital and is another of the best Paris day trips by train. The journey will take around 1 hour and 40 minutes, so it’s a fairly quick journey. 

Nestled in the heart of the Burgundy region, Dijon has a rich history, lots of culture, and plenty of fantastic food. You can explore the centre with its well-preserved medieval and Renaissance architecture, visit the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, and explore the Notre Dame de Dijon Cathedral, with its intricate carvings and beautiful stained glass.

Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, where you’ll discover local markets, boutique shops, and quaint cafes. Dijon is also known for its mustard, so be sure to visit La Maison Maille where you can sample and purchase some.

If you love art, you should also explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures from Egyptian antiquities to modern art.

4. Disneyland Paris

Distance from Paris: 44 km

Time to get there: 40 minutes by train

Arguably the second most popular day trips from Paris by train is to Disneyland Paris. The iconic theme park attracts both adults and children alike with its nostalgic characters and enjoyable rides.

With a train station conveniently located at the park’s entrance, you can reach Disneyland from Paris in about 40 minutes.

There are two main parks here: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Disneyland Park is home to iconic attractions like Sleeping Beauty Castle, Space Mountain, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Walt Disney Studios Park offers a behind-the-scenes look at filmmaking with attractions such as Ratatouille: The Adventure and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror.

Of course, there’s more to Disneyland than just rides. You can also watch the parades, meet beloved Disney characters, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the parks. 

Book a trip from Paris to Disneyland Paris here!

5. Lille

Distance from Paris: 225 km

Time to get there: 1 hour by train

Offering a fantastic blend of history and culture, Lille is one of the best day trips from Paris by train. Located in the north of France (near the Belgian border) you can use the high-speed trains that connect these two cities and get to Lille from Paris in about an hour.

When you arrive, head straight to the Grand Place, a picturesque main square surrounded by colourful Flemish-style buildings. The architecture of the Vieille Bourse, a former stock exchange, is stunning and you can also explore the charming streets nearby, which are lined with boutique shops and cafes.

Art enthusiasts will love the Palais des Beaux-Arts, home to an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures. While, if you prefer history, the UNESCO World Heritage site Citadel of Lille offers a glimpse into the city’s military history. Plus, you can see panoramic views of Lille from its ramparts.

If you’d also love a taste of local cuisine, head to the Wazemmes market, where you can sample regional delicacies and experience the lively ambience like a local.

6. Lyon

Distance from Paris: 464 km

Time to get there: 2 hours by train

Lyon is the perfect city to visit from Paris whether you have just a day, a weekend, or longer!   There are many reasons to visit Lyon, making it an excellent choice for any kind of traveller.

Foodies will love Lyon.  It’s known as the gastronomic capital of France and has plenty of Michelin-starred restaurants to enjoy.  Or sample local favourites such as quenelles and a slice of delectable tarte aux pralines at a humble Bouchon.

History buffs will be excited to spend a day exploring Lyon’s Roman ruins – they’re one of the top attractions in Lyon.  And don’t miss the Lugdunum Museum which digs into Lyon’s Roman history with plenty of artifacts and exhibits.  (It’s also very kid-friendly.)

Art lovers will appreciate the impressive works of art housed in Lyon’s Musée des Beaux-Arts.  Lyon is famous for its public works of art — its incredible trompe-l’oeil murals.  The Mur des Canuts is one of the largest frescoes in Europe!

Lyon is about 464 kilometres from Paris.  You can make the drive in just under 5 hours, but the best way to travel from Paris to Lyon is by taking a 2-hour trip by high-speed train.

Book trains from Paris to Lyon here!

7. Epernay, Champagne Region

Distance from Paris: 143 km

Time to get there: 1 hour and 20 minutes by train

Located to the east of Paris in the Champagne region, Epernay is the perfect destination for wine lovers. Also known as the “world’s capital of Champagne”, Epernay is a charming town surrounded by vineyards where you can taste some of the world’s best wine.

To get to Epernay you can take a train from Gare de l’Est, and it will get you there in about 1 hour and 20 minutes (143 km from Paris). 

Once there, head to the Avenue de Champagne, along which you will find the famous Champagne Houses, where they produce and store the wine. You will find some world-class brands in the area, like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët. 

Taking a tour of some of these houses is one of the top things to do in Epernay. You will not only discover the secrets of Champagne production and taste some of the best wine in France, but some of them also offer a visit to their stunning underground cellars, which run for kilometres.

Exploring the surrounding countryside is another great activity to do in Epernay, where cycling tours will take you around the vineyards, making stops at important landmarks related to the world of Champagne.

Book a Champagne tour from Paris here!

8. Bordeaux

Distance from Paris: 499 km

Time to get there: 2 hours and 30 minutes by train

Just a 2.5-hour TGV rail journey from Paris, Bordeaux is one of the best day trips from Paris by train. Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, along the Garonne River, Bordeaux’s picturesque setting is perfect for those seeking a blend of culture, history, and gastronomy.

For wine connoisseurs, Bordeaux is a paradise, offering world-class wines that are renowned globally. A day trip to the city’s vineyards provides a chance to savour these exquisite wines firsthand. Then, capping off your wine adventure at the city’s gem, the Cité du Vin, which offers an immersive experience and a complete journey through Bordeaux’s wine excellence.

But Bordeaux isn’t all about wine. You can lose yourself in its UNESCO-listed old town, where charming cobblestone streets lead to architectural marvels, indulge your taste buds at the vibrant Marché des Capucins or Halles de Bacalan savouring local delicacies, or set sail on the Garonne River for a leisurely cruise. 

Whether you’re passionate about history, architecture, wine, or food, Bordeaux, with its close proximity to Paris and a wealth of attractions, stands as an undisputed gem on the list of best trips from Paris.

9. Reims, Champagne Region

Distance from Paris: 144 km

Time to get there: 45 minutes by train

Only a 45-minute train ride away from Paris is Reims. This city is more than a destination—it’s a journey through history and a haven for champagne enthusiasts. The city’s crown jewel, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, is a must for history buffs. It is where French kings were once crowned, and still stands to tell the tales of French royalty within its ancient walls.

This 80-mile escape from Paris is ideal for any traveller wishing to escape the hustle and bustle of the city of lights for the charms of a smaller, countryside town in France. It’s great for solo travellers as well as for couples in search of a romantic atmosphere.

Of course, the top thing to do in Reims (the unofficial capital of the Champagne region) is to visit the various Champagne houses for tours and tastings. But beyond this, Reims also offers stunning architecture in buildings that are worth a visit including the Carnegie Library and St. Clotilde of Reims Basilica.

Museum lovers also have options here. Spend a few hours at the Reims Planetarium, Hotel Le Vergeur Museum or even the Automobile Museum just to name a few.

Finally, be sure to seek out some of the traditional Reims pink biscuits while you’re visiting!

Book a champagne tour to Reims here!

10. Giverny

Distance from Paris: 80 km

Time to get there: 45 minutes by train

Giverny is a destination close to Paris that is best known for being the home of Claude Monet, the Impressionist artist who created some of the best-known paintings of water lilies.

A charming commune located about 80 km (50 miles) away from Paris in Normandy, it is one of the best day trips from Paris by train due to its location and historical significance.

Monet’s charming house and garden at Giverny, which inspired many of his paintings, are open to visitors.  It is surreal to walk through the gardens with the Japanese bridge and the water lily pond that seem familiar given how extensively they are featured in his paintings.

His home has been preserved in its original condition with personal photographs and art, including his collection of Japanese prints, and offers a window into the artist and the inspiration for his paintings.

It is easy to plan a day trip – or even a half-day trip – to Giverny from Paris. There are many organized tours. Or you can plan to take a 45-minute train from Paris to Vernon and catch a taxi or bus to get to Monet’s gardens.

Book a guided tour from Paris to Giverny here!

my profile at https://gottalovenewyork.com/hanit-gyani/

11. Fontainebleau Castle

Distance from Paris: 65 km

Time to get there: 1 hour by train

A day trip to the Château de Fontainebleau is a wonderful idea if you love beautiful chateaux and the French countryside. This 1,500-room chateau is equally as grand as Versailles but without the crowds. 

One of the most unique facts about the Fontainebleau castle is that it was home to all of France’s rulers and emperors. Everyone from Louis VII to Napoleon I lived here. You can even visit the only original throne room in France, which was used for Napoleon’s coronation. 

Wander around the gorgeous gardens, visit the eloquent rooms, walk the grand halls, explore the city of Fontainebleau, and you’ll easily spend an entire day here. 

The Château de Fontainebleau is located 65 km from Paris and is just an hour away by train. The best way to get here is by taking the regional train from Gare de Lyon in Paris to the Fontainebleau-Avon station. 

Once you arrive at the train station in Fontainebleau, you’ll need to hop on a local bus and take line 1 to the castle. Buy the full-day Mobilis train pass from the station in Paris, and this will give you access to both the train and buses for the day.

Book a day tour to Château de Fontainebleau here!

12. Omaha Beach

Distance from Paris: 285 km

Time to get there: 2 hours and 40 minutes by train

Hop on a train at the Paris Saint-Lazare station and head to Caen to visit the World War II D-Day Beaches. Another great option is to take the train to Bayeux. Omaha Beach is close to both of these towns. This is one of the five landing beaches.

On the bluff above the water, you’ll find the Normandy American Cemetery, where almost 10,000 American soldiers are buried. These men gave their lives in the World War II battle for Normandy that began on June 6, 1944.

At Omaha Beach today you can ponder what it was like to land here and fight for the beachhead. A lovely reflecting pool and a museum are here, too. A flag ceremony takes place each afternoon.

In Vierville-sur-Mer, at the far west end of Omaha Beach, visit an imposing sculpture called The Brave. The massive “wings of hope” remind people to stand strong for freedom and to speak up against all forms of inhumanity.

A visit to Omaha Beach in Normandy will be a full day of reliving history and honouring those who gave their lives. If you can stay in the area, plan to see more of the other D-Day Beaches along the Normandy coast.

Book a guided tour of the D-Day beaches from Paris here.

13. Rouen

Distance from Paris: 135 km

Time to get there: 1 hour and 35 minutes by train

Rouen is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and stunning Gothic cathedrals. This charming city is located on the bank of the River Seine in Upper Normandy, Northwestern part of France. It is approximately 135 km from the heart of Paris, and it would take about 1 hour and 35 minutes to reach Rouen from Paris.

Rouen is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Paris. It is an ideal destination for history and architecture enthusiasts, art lovers, Joan of Arc enthusiasts, and Nature lovers.

There are must–see beautiful places that you can explore in that beautiful city. One of the best things to do in Rouen is explore the charming old town and its half-timbered houses and admire the 16th-century astronomical clock,  Rue du Gros-Horloge, located in the Renaissance arch over a pedestrian street.

Visit the Joan of Arc History Museum and learn about her life trials; this museum is only dedicated to this iconic figure.

Do not forget to visit the Gothic cathedral of Rouen. This stunning Gothic cathedral inspired several paintings by Claude Monet. The intricate architecture and rich history make it a must-see.

14. Nantes

Distance from Paris: 450 km

Time to get there: 2 hours, 20 minutes by train

Nantes often flies under the radar but honestly, it’s a true hidden treasure where industrial times meet the Middle Ages and merge into a quirky mix of both.

You find Nantes in the Loire Valley region, roughly 450 km west of Paris. But despite the distance, you are there in no time. The TGV high-speed train takes a mere 2h20, perfect for a day trip you won’t regret.

In the heart of Nantes, you should stop by the Château des Ducs de Bretagne. It doubles as a museum, bringing the 14th century to life and is right next to the stunning Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral. All this sits in the Quartier Bouffay, a cosy neighbourhood brimming with cafes and shops. It’s a lovely lunch spot. 

But if you’re lucky, you score a reservation at Mandale. A Michelin Restaurant with ridiculously affordable haute cuisine.

For a taste of Nantes’ contrasting character, swing by Quartier Graslin. The 18th and 19th-century Passage Pommeraye is very similar to the covered arcades in Paris and a beautiful spot for some souvenir shopping.

And for that industrial kick, “Les Machines de l’île” is a must-see. Imagine a park where mechanical beasts, dreamt up by the likes of Jules Verne and da Vinci, roam free. For example, a gigantic elephant that you can mount and ride through the park. 

15. Avignon

Distance from Paris: 650 km

Time to get there: 2 hours and 45 minutes by train

Avignon is the capital of France’s charming Provence region, located in the south of the country. It is most well-known for the impressive Palais des Papes, which sits on the banks of the Rhȏne River, looking out to the famous Pont d’Avignon.

Without a doubt, a guided tour of the Palais des Papes is one of the best things to do in Avignon. There are also several museums and galleries you can visit. However, on a sunny day, take it slow and get lost in the quaint cobbled streets of the historic centre. 

Stop for a coffee or leisurely lunch in one of the beautiful traditional squares. Or head to Les Halles market to pick up some local tasty treats to enjoy in the Jardin Des Doms – a leafy hilltop park with sweeping views over the Rhȏne River.

Avignon has a laid-back charm and is perfect for a romantic break. The city also makes a great base for which to explore the wider Luberon and Provence region.

From Paris’ Gare du Lyon station, you can take a direct train to Avignon in just 2 hours and 45 minutes, making it the perfect getaway. 

Book trains to Avignon from Paris here!

Day Trips From Paris by Train to Other Countries

When it comes to train travel in Europe, trains can pretty much get you from one end of the continent to the other. As such, here are some of the best day trips from Paris by train to other countries nearby.

16. London, England

Distance from Paris: 470 km

Time to get there: 2 hours, 17 minutes by train

With such a big city like London, it’s impossible to see everything on a day trip. However, to get a little taste of London life, a day trip from Paris is one of the best ways. And with the Eurotunnel directly connecting Paris with London St Pancras, it’s also one of the easiest cities to visit.

London is full of history, fantastic landmarks, and lots of cultural gems. On a Paris day trip by train, you’ll likely want to see all the highlights of this city. Start your journey with a visit to the historic heart of London, where you can marvel at Buckingham Palace and see the Changing of the Guard. Next, stroll through St. James’s Park for picturesque views, before heading on to the iconic Westminster.

See the iconic landmarks of the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Big Ben, followed by a leisurely walk along the South Bank of the Thames River. Cross the famous Tower Bridge to see the Tower of London (you probably won’t have time to go inside).

For those interested in free London attractions, the British Museum, National History Museum, and the National Gallery are also fantastic attractions, housing collections spanning various eras and cultures. If you have some spare time, have a wander down Oxford Street or explore the vibrant markets of Covent Garden.

Book a day trip from Paris to London here!

17. Brussels, Belgium

Distance from Paris: 313 km

Time to get there: 1 hour and 30 minutes by train

For cobbled streets, gorgeous architecture and delicious food, head to Brussels. It’s one of the best day trips from Paris by train. I recommend starting your day at the iconic Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site surrounded by fancy guild halls and the impressive Town Hall. 

You can also see the cheeky Manneken Pis near here and, depending on what season you visit, see what outfit the locals have dressed him up in!

If you love art, head to the Magritte Museum where you’ll find a remarkable collection of surrealist works. Then, don’t forget to explore the Atomium, a unique structure resembling an atom, that offers panoramic views of the city. 

Of course, you can’t visit Belgium and not explore the cuisine! Indulge in the mouth-watering Belgian chocolate and waffles at the charming cafes and chocolatiers scattered throughout the city. Also try Belgian frites, Belgian waffles with an array of delicious toppings, moules-frites (mussels and fries) and sample the vast array of Belgian beers. 

The European Quarter, with its modern architecture and the European Parliament, is also worth exploring.

18. Luxembourg

Distance from Paris: 290 km

Time to get there: 2 hours, 10 minutes by train

What’s great about taking a day trip to Luxembourg, is that the country is so small, that you can explore the whole of Luxembourg in just one day. It’s the perfect day trip.

The main station is in the capital, Luxembourg City (aptly named). This is where many of the sights in Luxembourg are. The main sights are the Palais Grand-Ducal, Constitution Square and the Bock Casemates.

But Luxembourg City is full of panoramic views such as those over Grund, the most picturesque part of Luxembourg, or from the free elevator of the Pfaffenthal. 

And even though it’s the most expensive country in the world, Luxembourg isn’t expensive to visit. There’s free public transport everywhere in Luxembourg, so if you leave Paris early in the morning, you can spend a few hours exploring Luxembourg City and even have time to take a day trip to one of the castles. Vianden Castle is the most popular and it does not disappoint. It’s incredible, and so well-preserved. 

And for the way back, there are a similar amount of trains back to Paris, and it takes the same amount of time to get back. 

Book trains to Luxembourg here!

19. Bruges, Belgium

Distance from Paris: 300 km

Time to get there: 2 hours, 25 minutes by train

Another fantastic destination in Belgium that you can visit from Paris, Bruges is the final destination on this list of day trips from Paris by train. You can’t reach this city directly from Paris, instead having to change trains in Brussels, but you can still reach the city in just under 2 and a half hours. 

This city is a fantastic place to visit with its well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque canals. The entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage site. With its fairy-tale appearance and picturesque streets, it’s not hard to see why! 

During a day trip to Bruges, there’s plenty to do. Explore the Markt and climb to the top of the Belfry of Bruges for panoramic views of the city. Stroll along the cobbled streets, crossing charming bridges over the canals, and explore the Basilica of the Holy Blood. 

The Markt is also home to the colourful Provinciaal Hof (Province Court) and various cafes where you can savour Belgian delights.

If you want to explore the city from a unique perspective, you can also take a boat tour along the canals. Don’t forget to buy as many Belgian chocolates as you can eat and sample the famous Belgian waffles at one of the charming cafes.

Book a day trip from Paris to Bruges here!

The Main Paris Train Stations

There are several train stations in Paris and they are all connected by the metro. Each of the stations serves a different region of France or the rest of Europe.

Paris Gare du Nord is Paris’s bustling main hub and the easiest way to reach many other destinations in Europe. You can catch both high-speed and slower trains from here as well as the Eurotunnel to the UK.

Gare de l’Est, is the main serves as the main railway connecting Paris with destinations in the east. This station is where you’ll likely catch your train if you’re travelling towards Strasbourg, Luxembourg, and beyond.

Next, we have Gare Saint-Lazare. This station is a key departure point for journeys to the Norman coast and western France.

Lastly, Gare de Lyon is the gateway to the south of France. It’s the main departure point for travellers bound for Lyon, Marseille, and the French Riviera.

How to Purchase Your Train Tickets

It’s fairly simple to purchase your train tickets in Paris at the station, but to be sure of the best price, and to make sure you’re not rushing around the station, I recommend buying your tickets in advance. 

For both domestic French trains and international services, you can book tickets here.

Then, select your departure station, select your destination, and choose the type of ticket you prefer. Options may include standard, first-class, or flexible tickets. Make sure to check for any available discounts or promotions. 

Depending on the train service, you might be able to download and print your tickets at home, use a mobile ticket, or pick up physical tickets at the station.

To book your train tickets in Paris, click here.

Final Thoughts on the Best Day Trips From Paris by Train

Overall, there are lots of places you can visit from Paris by train, from rolling countryside hills, to historic towns, to neighbouring capital cities. It’s super easy to navigate the regions around Paris. You can get to so many great cities in under 3 hours. If you’re spending some time in Paris and also want to see what’s outside the city centre, I hope this guide has given you some inspiration.

Disclosure: Some of the links above may be affiliate links that earn me a commission at no extra cost to you. If you purchase through my links – thank you so much! I only recommend products and companies that I use and love.