23 Easy Day Trips From Paris By Train

Want to explore other places beyond the city of lights? From cities and small towns to historical sites, here are the easy day trips from Paris by train you’ll love!

The city of Paris is much more than just the capital of France. It is where the latest trends of fashion and culture coexist with their equally mesmerizing landmarks.

Be it the stunning architecture from the Renaissance period, carefully curated museums, or the serene beauty of the Seine River — Paris has it all.

But though the city is beautiful, there is more to see beyond its walls that unfortunately many people ignore.

Disclaimer: This post might contain affiliate links. This means we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you) should you choose to sign up for a program or make a purchase using one of our links. It’s okay – We love all of the products we recommend anyway, and you will too! Also, that commission helps us keep this awesome free blog up to date! You can read our full disclosure here for more details!

If you’ve exhausted all the major items on your Paris bucket list including all the non-touristy places and hidden gems, then I recommend visiting some of the nearby places by going on a day trip from Paris.

These places come with historical monuments, breathtaking landscapes, mouth-watering local delicacies, thrilling rides, and museums specializing in a variety of themes.

And luckily for you, you just need to buy a train ticket or even use the high-speed train to explore these equally beautiful places.

Getting excited? Read on to find out some of the easy day trips from Paris by train!

Before You Go, Here’s How to Plan Your Visit To Paris: Practical Quick Tips

MUST-DO EXPERIENCES HAPPENING NOW IN PARIS
Château de Lumières in Vincennes: A fascinating show on the history of the château through the centuries 
Candlelight show: Perfect if you want to be treated to a candlelit music show in a beautiful Parisian venue: (4.8/10)
Cabaret at Moulin Rouge: A cabaret in the iconic Moulin Rouge is a must: (4.7/10)

Psst… Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads.

Easy Day Trips from Paris By Train

Regardless of how long you spend in Paris, I recommend taking at least one of these day train trips from Paris.

1. Versailles Palace

• Paris to Versailles train: Take RER C from either Montparnasse station on line N or Saint-Lazare train station on line L.
• Versailles Palace from Paris travel time: 40 minutes

If you are looking for a place where you can feel regal in a gorgeous dress and take some trendy photos for Instagram while learning more about the former French royals, the Versailles Palace, located 19km (12 miles) west of Pari,s is the perfect spot for a day trip outside Paris. 

After marveling at the extravagant apartments adorned with gems, crystals, and gold, you can take a stroll at the accompanying 2000-acre garden showcasing rare flowers, fountains, and sculptures.

And if you visit in the spring or summer, you’ll be able to enjoy the water fountain shows. 

Art lovers can visit the Baroque-style gallery called Hall of Mirrors, located south of the Palace Gardens, or the Galerie des Batailles on the first floor.

All you have to do is to book this Versailles entry ticket that comes with an audio guide in advance to avoid the long lines, or better yet book this guided tour to learn everything there is to know about this grand palace from a knowledgeable tour guide.

Not sure how to get to this palace? Then check out my detailed guide on how to get to Versailles Palace from Paris.

2. Disneyland Paris

• Paris to Disneyland Paris train: Take RER A train
• Disneyland Paris from Paris travel time: 45 minutes

Disneyland Paris is one of the most exciting day trips by train from Paris. Literally, all you have to do here is have fun and get on rides!

Located 45 minutes from Paris, you’ll be able to meet your favorite Disney characters at Disney Parks and discover the life-sized dragon Maleficent hidden underneath the entrance of Sleeping Beauty’s iconic pink castle.

On the Studio Tram Tour of the park, you will get to see some behind-the-scenes secrets of their classic movies up close, including their special effects! 

The adventurous ones can take some of Disneyland’s thrilling rides, like the Tower of Terror or Space Mountain, but more light-hearted rides are also available, including Peter Pan’s Flight, It’s a Small World, and so many others.

And as you plan to visit, be sure to buy this 1-day Disney ticket here to avoid queuing for it when you get there!

You can also check out these Disneyland Paris tips to make sure you plan your trip well, and if you plan to dine at any of the fancy restaurants at Disneyland Paris, make sure that you make a reservation in advance.

Related Posts
Best campsites close to Disneyland Paris
How to get from CDG airport to Disneyland Paris

3. Mont Saint-Michel

• Paris to Mont Saint Michel train: You can read my article on how to get to Mont Saint Michel from Paris as the route requires changing lines.
• Mont Saint Michel from Paris travel time: 3 – 4 hours, depending on the option you choose.

Mont-Saint-Michel is another World Heritage Site located 354 km (220 miles) west of Paris. By train, it should take you about 3-4 hours to reach this top attraction of Normandy.

Its surrounding medieval defense walls, known as ramparts make the island look like a distant mystical castle rising from the sea at high tide.

You can visit some beautiful ancient architectural pieces like Abbaye du Mont Saint-Michel with its Gothic spires.

Take a break at the charming Grand Rue to enjoy some refreshments before visiting its museums: Archéoscope, Musée de la Mer et de l’Écologie, and Musée Historique.

To plan your visit with ease, you can check out my guide to visiting Mont Saint Michel from Paris.

4.  Chateau de Chantilly

• Paris to Château de Chantilly train: Take the train from Gare du Nord
• Château de Chantilly from Paris travel time: 30 minutes

Château de Chantilly is one of the beautiful French castles near Paris located only 48km (30 miles) north of the city in the town of Chantilly.

Though it’s usually perceived as one castle, it actually consists of two attached buildings: Petit Château and the Grand Château.

The architecture of this castle is mesmerizing, and the reflections on water and the 285 acres of garden around it make it one of the most worthwhile Paris day trips.

You can visit the beautiful private art gallery of Musée Condé, which showcases the second-largest collection of antique French paintings (the first being the Louvre museum).

After exploring the fine art rooms like Stag Gallery, Psyche Gallery, and Tribune Room, check out the Reading Room where book illustrations from the 15th to 16th centuries and even some rare pieces are displayed.

5.  Provins

• Paris to Provins train: Take the train from Gare de l’Est via line P
• Provins from Paris travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

If you love history, then Provins is one of the places that should be on your Paris day trips list. Located in the north-central commune of France, it is just about 91 km (57 miles) southeast of Paris.

Due to its historical significance, this medieval town earned the recognition of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

While you’re there, you can climb the medieval ramparts of Provins, climb Tour Cesar for stunning views over the entire town, enjoy the scenic beauty along Rue de Collège, and end up at Église Catholique Collégiale St Quiriace to admire its architectural beauty.

And if you visit in December, you’ll get a chance to enjoy its well-known medieval Christmas market.

The most intriguing part of this trip is the ancient tunnels, or Les Souterrains de Provins.

Going through these intricately designed underground tunnels will give you a rare glimpse of the art scrawled across their walls left by people who lived there centuries ago!

With so many things to do in Provins and being easily accessible, it is truly one of the best day trips out of Paris.

6. Fontainebleau Palace

• Paris to Chateau de Fontainebleau train: Take the train from Gare de Lyon
• Chateau de Fontainebleau from Paris travel time: 45 minutes

If you want to walk in the footsteps of royals but don’t want to visit a crowded place, then Chateau de Fontainebleau will be an ideal option for you.

Located just 54 km (34 miles) southeast of central Paris, the Palace of Fontainebleau is one of the largest French châteaux where royals lived for 700 years, including Louis VII and Napoleon III.

It doesn’t attract as many people as the Versailles Palace, but it is equally regal and stunning. The 12th-century palace has more than 1500 rooms and is surrounded by 130 acres of greenery.

You can visit a number of opulent rooms like the throne room, the royal chapel, the Grands Appartements, and so many others, and after that, take a stroll around the beautiful and well-maintained gardens.

If you love natural beauty or even hiking, then make your way to the ancient oak Fontainebleau forest to connect with nature.

7. Giverny

• Paris to Giverny train: Take the train from Saint-Lazare Train Station
• Giverny from Paris travel time: 50 minutes

For some serene time, take a day trip from Paris to Giverny, located about 69km (43.5 miles) northwest of the capital.

This picturesque area is famous for being the former home to world-renowned Impressionist artist Claude Monet.

Along with admiring the mesmerizing garden where he painted his famous “water lily series”, you can enjoy some great food at Hôtel Baudy, which used to be the center of artistic life once upon a time. 

After all that, you can take a lovely stroll around the charming country houses of Giverny to crown your visit to this picture-perfect village.

8.  Parc Astérix

• Paris to Parc Astérix train: Take RER B to Charles De Gaulle Airport and then a Parc shuttle from there.
• Parc Astérix from Paris travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Created based on the comic book series Asterix, this amusement park located nearly 35km (22 miles) north of the French capital is one of the best places to visit near Paris.

Over 2 million visitors come here every year, making it the second biggest theme park in France, behind only the behemoth Disneyland Paris.

The park has a wide variety of thrilling roller coasters and attractions, which will make the day for any adventurous soul out there.

Some of the most popular ones include the large wooden Tonnerre de Zeus, the huge steel multi-looping Goudurix, and the 3000-foot bobsled Trace du Hourra, a ride where cars go up to 50 miles per hour!

What makes this place a great contender among other day trips from Paris is that you get to experience other historical cultures like Roman, Greek, and Egyptian through visual stories in addition to the French culture.

9. Loire Valley

• Paris to Loire Valley train: Take the train from Montparnasse
• Loire Valley from Paris travel time: 1 hour 20 minutes – 2 hours, depending on your preferred stop.

Located nearly 219 km (136 miles) away from Paris, the enchanting Loire Valley is often called the Garden of France or the Cradle of the French.

It gained such titles due to the numerous fruit orchards, vineyards, artichoke, and asparagus fields present around the Loire River.

This perfect excursion of natural beauty and historical value also has a globally renowned wine region whose wines are known for their fresh fruitiness and crisp flavors.

Besides this, the Loire Valley has the largest concentration of French chateaux, over 300 to give you a real picture.

On the river’s left bank, the water reflects the breathtaking beauty of Château de Chambord, an emblematic Renaissance monument.

Other chateaux worth checking out while in this region include Chenonceau Castle, Château of Sully-sur-Loire, Château of Blois, Château de Chaumont, and so many others.

By visiting this place, you will feel like the locomotive has dropped you off at a shelter full of wine and castles from all the city noise.

10. Champagne Wine Region

• Paris to Reims train: Take the train from Paris Gare de l’Est
• Reims from Paris travel time: 45 minutes

A common destination for a one day trip from Paris is the Champagne wine region, located 144km (90 miles) east of the city.

After only an hour or less on the train, you will arrive in this historic area that gave the sparkling white wine its name.

You can visit one or more of the five wine-producing areas here, including Montagne de Reims and Vallée de la Marne.

Be sure to taste various champagnes from a number of champagne houses, including the famous Moët & Chandon in Epernay, Veuve Clicquot in Reims, and Tattinger in Reims, which have all been in place since the 1700s!

And as you enjoy the champagne houses in Reims, make sure you stop at Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, which is one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France.

If you get hungry, you can enjoy a hearty meal at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants since there are quite many in the region.

11. Boulogne-Billancourt

• Paris to Boulogne-Billancourt train: Take Metro line 10
• Boulogne-Billancourt from Paris travel time: 20 minutes, depending on your starting point.

For those of you who are looking for some quick train rides from Paris, you can visit Boulogne-Billancourt, located between Paris and Versailles.

Located 8 km (5 miles) from the capital’s center, it is often called Paris’s western lung since it looks heavenly with many lakes and serene parkland.

After taking tons of surreal photos, you can move on to exploring the three museums, which offer three distinct tastes of historical value.

Musée des Années Trente, which highlights the work of many underappreciated artists, Musée Paul-Belmondo, which showcases sculptures and art, and Musée Albert-Kahn, which showcases sculpted gardens and photographs from the 19th century.

12. Chartres

• Paris to Chartres train: Take the train from Montparnasse Train station
• Chartres from Paris travel time: 1 hour

Located 90km (56 miles) southwest of Paris, which is just an hour away, Chartres boasts Gothic architecture, which is a treat for those who love ancient European monuments.

The main attraction of the city is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres (or Chartres Cathedral), which was built in the 12th century.

Though this Cathédrale still stands proud in a well-preserved state, much of the accompanying old town is now destroyed.

There are also other notable churches here, like Église Saint-Pierre and Église Saint-Aignan, which date back to the 7th and 12th centuries, respectively.

You can also check out multiple museums, including Musée des Beaux-Arts, Musée le grenier de l’histoire, and Le Centre international du vitrail, which focuses on stained glass art.

Along with all these historical beauties, you can also enjoy an astonishing light show at night across the city center from April to October.

13. Montreuil and Vincennes

• Paris to Vincennes train: You can either take Metro line 1 or RER A from Gare de Lyon
• Vincennes from Paris travel time: 10 – 30 minutes, depending on your starting point

Located 10 minutes apart from each other, Montreuil and Vincennes are just over 10km (6 miles) East of the City of Light.

Being the closest eastern suburb to Paris, it is incredibly popular for its sightseeing and labyrinthine flea market called Les Puces de Montreuil.

If you visit on a Saturday or a Monday, you can get your hands on some vintage or retro items for a great bargain!

In Vincennes, you can visit Château de Vincennes, a medieval castle boasting a height of 51m (170 feet) and the tallest dungeon of its time!

Along with sky-scraping upper floors, you can also check out its Royal Chapel and the study of Charles V.

Missing greenery? Just go to Murs à Pêches whose abundance of orchards and patches supplied fresh fruit to Paris from the 1600s to the 1900s.

However, the highlight of your trip to Vincennes is Bois de Vincennes, the largest public park in Paris.

You can take a walk on its many trails, cruise on the serene lake, visit the Temple of Love, or visit the botanical garden, Parc Floral de Paris. Bois de Vincennes is the perfect escape from the busy streets of Paris.

14. Metz

• Paris to Metz train: Take the train from Paris Gare de l’Est
• Metz from Paris travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Another place that combines the love of architecture and botanical marvels is Metz, a city located 321 km (200 miles) East of Paris.

It has one of the most stunning Gothic architectural pieces, the Metz Cathedral. You can also check out Porte des Allemands, a medieval bridge castle located on Boulevard André Maginot.

If you are a self-proclaimed foodie, don’t forget to check out the covered market, Marché Couvert, which has permanent stalls.

15. Parc de Sceaux

• Paris to Parc de Sceaux train: To reach Parc de Sceaux, you’ll need to take line B from either Gare de Nord or Chatelet Metro station.
• Parc de Sceaux from Paris travel time: 20 – 30 minutes, depending on where you take the train from.

What better way to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris than with a trip to the peaceful Parc de Sceaux, located 28km (17 miles) south of the big city?

A perfect Paris day trip by train if you’re looking for tranquility, this 17th-century park is spread across 180 hectares and makes an ideal place for an afternoon.

One step into this domain and the astoundingly vast formal gardens will greet you.

Besides strolling through the park admiring the beautifully manicured gardens, you can watch the cascades plunge and the fountain jet out water in the octagonal basin, visit the small chateaux turned museum, which now houses a collection on the history of Paris, or admire sculptures in the Orangerie. You can also go hiking on its various walking trails in the forest.

However, the highlight of visiting Parc de Sceaux is admiring its stunning cherry blossoms at Bosquet Nord in April.

Though there are so many cherry blossom spots in Paris, none beats this one. The entire area is covered in beautiful pink cherry trees, making it a perfect backdrop for Paris Instagram photos. You can even carry picnic essentials to picnic under the stunning beauty of the pink trees.

So, if you’re looking for the best Paris day trips where you can enjoy beautiful landscapes and participate in outdoor activities, Parc de Sceaux is one not to miss.

16. Colmar

• Paris to Colmar train: Take the train from Paris Gare de l’Est
• Colmar from Paris travel time: 2 hours 40 minutes

Heavily influenced by the French and German, this quaint Alsatian town is one of the best places to visit from Paris by train, thanks to its stunning architectural landmarks, half-timbered houses, scenic old town, canals, and cobblestoned streets lined with cute restaurants, cafes, and overflowing flower pots.

Being a small town, the best way to see everything is by walking and stopping at popular sites.

Some of the popular attractions to see in Colmar include, the soaring Gothic St. Martin’s Church with its 13th-century stained glass windows located in the old town, the nearby Unterlinden Museum which houses the famous Isenheim Altarpiece depicting the crucifixion of Jesus, the Pfister House, a historic former house of a merchant, and the 19th-century Colmar covered market to shop for Fresh produce or oversized pretzels.

However, you can’t visit Colmar and not stroll through Little Venice! It’s not only the most beautiful place in the town, but also the most photographed, thanks to its canals and colorful half-timbered houses.

While you can just walk around Little Venice, there’s no better way to experience the visually pleasing half-timbered medieval buildings than on a wooden boat.

And if you are a fan of Bartholdi’s works, do not leave town without marveling at his 12-meter (39 ft) Statue of Liberty replica.

Although you can visit Colmar any time of the year, I recommend visiting between late November and December to watch the picturesque town turn into a cute Christmas village with lots of glittering lights and Christmas markets. It’s a sight you don’t want to miss.

17. Strasbourg

• Paris to Strasbourg train: Take the train from Paris Gare de l’Est
• Strasbourg from Paris travel time: 2 hours

While I recommend visiting Strasbourg on a weekend trip from Paris, if you only have one day, it’s still worth visiting this beautiful city on a day trip.

Famous for its bevy of architectural masterpieces, thriving gastronomic scene, and satisfying combination of French and German culture, Strasbourg won’t disappoint those with a penchant for history.

Start your trip at the Gothic Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, famous for its 16th-century astronomical clock, 13th-century stained glass windows, and views of the entire city if you climb its tower.

From there, learn about the city’s local history at the Alsatian Museum and get to Les Ponts Couverts de Strasbourg (the covered bridges of Strasbourg) for picture-perfect views of the River Ill and Petite France.

However, no visit to Strasbourg would be complete without strolling through La Petite France to admire the beauty of its colorful ancient half-timbered houses or even cruising on its canal for a memorable experience. Another place not to miss in Strasbourg is the picturesque St. Paul’s church.

When you need a break from the area’s rich history, head to the 18th-century Parc de l’Orangerie, where the whole family will appreciate the sports fields, playgrounds, zoo, lake, and, for the foodie, the Michelin-starred Le Buerehiesel restaurant.

Just like Colmar, Strasbourg also becomes even more magical during the Christmas season — after all, it is known as the Capital of Christmas.

From Christmas markets that sell local artisanal products and Alsatian dishes to Christmas lights that fill up the streets and squares, particularly at Place Kleber, and perfectly decorated houses, everything in Strasbourg makes it one of the best day trips from Paris France, especially during the holidays.

18. Rouen

• Paris to Rouen train: Take the train from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare
• Rouen from Paris travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Yet another fabulous day trip from Paris by train, Rouen is the capital of Normandy and sits on the River Seine.

The charming city is known for being the place where Saint Joan of Arc was tried and executed and for having inspiring architectural landmarks. Thanks to the city’s rich history and cultural significance, there’s plenty to do in Rouen.

Some attractions to seek out include the 14th-century astronomical clock, (Le Gros Horloge), St Joan of Arc’s Church, Place du Vieux-Marché (the square where Joan of Arc was executed, and where the church mentioned above sits), the last piece of the Rouen Castle — the 13th-century Joan of Arc tower, and more.

Meander through the endless cobble-stoned lanes with medieval half-timbered houses as you explore the old town and visit the magnificent Gothic-style Notre Dame Cathedral of Rouen (Rouen Cathedral), to admire its architectural beauty and stained glass windows

I recommend visiting between June and September when the cathedral’s facade glitters at night with a stunning light show.

Other ways to relax while in the city are by visiting the Jardin des Plantes de Rouen and sampling the city’s traditional dishes.

19. Dijon

• Paris to Dijon train: Take the train from Paris Gare de Lyon
• Dijon from Paris travel time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Next on the list of the best day trips outside Paris by train is Dijon, a city located in the wine region of Burgundy.

Famous for its mustard sauce, extensive architectural styles, and International Gastronomy Fair held every November in the lovely covered market, Dijon lets you choose your own adventure.

The best way to enjoy the region’s geography is to take a self-guided tour by following the trail of the 22 owls spread across the cobblestoned pedestrian streets.

You can also wander through the magnificent 18th-century Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon, located in the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, and climb its 316-step staircase tower (Tower of Philip the Good) for photo-worthy views of Dijon’s rooftops.

Also, don’t miss the chance to make a wish at Notre Dame de Dijon, where a 300-year-old stone-carved owl stands. Rub your left hand on the owl, and your wish might come true.

Then head to Hotel De Vogue and unwind in its courtyard before returning to the city.

But before leaving, be sure to check out Maille Dijon mustard, a store that offers tastings of various mustards, or even buy some as a souvenir.

Though it might seem like there is not much to do compared to other day trips from Paris by train, in my opinion, Dijon is still very much worth visiting.

20. Auvers-sur-Oise

• Paris to Auvers-sur-Oise train: Take the train from Gare du Nord
• Auvers-sur-Oise from Paris travel time: 1 hour

Only 30 km (18 miles) from Paris, Auvers-sur-Oise makes for an easy train trip from Paris.

The village was immortalized by the famous painter van Gogh since he stayed there during the last days of his life, and today, many people visit this commune to walk in the footsteps of this once-troubled artist.

Filled with charm and scenery, it is easy to see why van Gogh finished almost 80 paintings in the seventy days he lived here! Since then, Auvers-sur-Oise has become synonymous with art, receiving many art fanatics and fans of van Gogh.

But it’s not just van Gogh! Even before he moved here, several artists had already made a mark in this commune, and this can be seen by visiting the Daubigny Museum, which showcases the works of Charles-François Daubigny, who settled in the area way before van Gogh.

Though for most people, the only reason to visit Auvers-sur-Oise is to have a glimpse of van Gogh’s life.

You can take “van Gogh’s route,” which has been carefully marked with panels showcasing some of the popular paintings painted in the area, and later stop by the wheat fields where van Gogh shot himself in 1890.

Also, make sure to pay homage to Auvers-sur-Oise Cemetery, where the iconic artist and his brother, Theo, are buried, which is not far from Doctor Gachet’s house (the doctor who took care of van Gogh during his stay in this village). You can also visit the doctor’s house itself.

But probably the most famous attraction is the Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption church immortalized by the Church at Auvers-sur-Oise painting, which is today one of the most famous paintings by van Gogh in Orsay museum.

After visiting the village, you can grab something to eat at Auberge Ravoux (also known as Maison de van Gogh), which is not only a restaurant but also where van Gogh used to stay and later died. It’s possible to visit the attic and get a glimpse of van Gogh’s bedroom.

21. Amiens

• Paris to Amiens train: Take the train from Gare du Nord
• Amiens from Paris travel time: 1 hour 30 minutes

A hub for creatives and history buffs, Amiens is jam-packed with events year-round, so regardless of when you take that train ride from Paris, you will not lack what to do.

Anyone looking for a relaxing environment basking in culture will love the city as it beckons with its rich architectural heritage.

Make your way to the medieval Quartier Saint-Leu and stroll through its cafe-and-shop-lined narrow streets and admire the colorful waterfront buildings!

But if there is one attraction that makes Amiens one of the best day trips outside of Paris, it has to be Cathédrale Notre-Dame d’Amiens.

This magnificent building is one of the largest and most stunning Gothic cathedrals in the world. In fact, it’s twice the size of the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.

Its exterior is as impressive as the interior, with intricate architectural details that will impress all architectural fanatics. From statues, rose windows, flèche (spire of the cathedral), the Baroque pulpit, the choir, the altar, the nave, stained glass windows, and more. You can even climb its bell tower to get stunning views of the city.

And if you visit the cathedral in either summer or winter, you’ll be treated to a visually striking light show known as Chroma.

Other things to do in Amiens include exploring Maison de Jules Verne, where the French writer lived, taking a boat ride through the floating gardens and the bay of the Somme, admiring art at Musée de Picardie, and collecting antiques in the spring and autumn flea markets during the Grande Réderie d’Amiens flea market, which is considered the second-largest flea market in Northern France.

22. Lille

• Paris to Lille train: Take the train from Gare du Nord
• Lille from Paris travel time: 1 hour 40 minutes

For a brilliant day trip from Paris by train, it’s hard to beat the appeal of Lille.

Although severely destroyed during World War I, the beautifully restored Flemish-influenced houses in the Vieux Lille are tailor-made for stunning photographs.

Stroll through the narrow cobbled streets and make your way to La Grand Place, northeast of the center, where historical buildings adorn the square, but the cherry on top is the fountain with the Column of the Goddess in the centre.

Make sure to also visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille which houses the “Olga in fur collar” painting by Pablo Picasso, the lofty Town Hall Belfry which gives a panoramic view of the city, and the Old Stock Exchange building — a lineup of 24 little houses encircling an arched courtyard that hosts tango and salsa performances in the summer.

Also, the city has many parks and gardens, making it an ideal location for the family, and if you visit on the first weekend of September, you’ll be able to see Europe’s largest flea market — Braderie.

23. Bordeaux

• Paris to Bordeaux train: Take the train from Paris Montparnasse
• Bordeaux from Paris travel time: 2 hours 20 minutes

Last but not least on my list of the best day trips from Paris by train is Bordeaux!

Sitting on the river Garonne, Bordeaux is the world’s wine heavyweight, with over 287,000 acres of vineyards, so there are plenty of bars for wine tastings, especially Quartier Chartrons and various vineyard wine tastings.

But while Bordeaux has a thriving wine scene, its historical monuments dating back to Roman times hog much of the limelight. So if you are a history buff, add this city to your list of things to do outside of Paris.

Some highlights of the architectural wonders not to miss include the Place de la Bourse with the Fountain of the Three Graces, Saint-André Cathedral (also known as Bordeaux Cathedral), Saint-Michel Basilica, National Opera of Bordeaux, Grosse Cloche, and the Cité du Vin museum, where oenophiles can follow the region’s vineyards history.

You can also treat yourself to traditional Bordelais foods at the brasseries which line the river Garonne and some quiet time at Place des Quinconces (the largest square in France), or stroll through the longest pedestrian street in France, Rue Sainte-Catherine, before heading back to the big city.

---

Final Thoughts on the Best Train Trips from Paris

As you can see, there is no shortage of day trips from Paris by train. There are so many cities near Paris and towns that offer several timeless experiences that you’ll love.

From tasting sophisticated champagne, picking out vintage items, and enjoying various roller coasters to visiting historical landmarks, the incredible spectrum of fun, history, and knowledge these places provide is truly incomparable.

Have you taken any of these easy train trips from Paris? Which one was your favorite? Let me know in the comments below.

NEVER TRAVEL TO PARIS WITHOUT TRAVEL INSURANCE

One of the biggest mistakes you’ll ever make when planning a trip to Paris is to forego Travel Insurance!

You might think that it’s expensive, but when you think of how much it will save you when you lose your valuables or even get sick, then you’ll know that it’s NOT that expensive!

Unfortunately, things can and do go wrong when you travel. World Nomads offers coverage for
more than 150 activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation, and more. If you’re considering travel insurance for your trip, check out World Nomads.

Check out these posts to help you plan your trip to Paris

• Nontouristy things to do in Paris
• Stunning views from the Eiffel Tower
• How to Plan a perfect picnic in Paris
• Big mistakes to avoid while traveling in Paris
• Things to know before traveling to Paris
• Skip the lines Tickets for popular Paris attractions
• Best Hotels in Paris with Eiffel Tower views
• Things to do in Paris at night
• How to skip the long lines in Paris
• Best places to get stunning views of the Eiffel Tower

Was this post on the easy day trips from Paris by train helpful? Then please consider sharing it with others.

Sharing is caring!