Paris Day Trips

Here’s a list of some of the best day trips you can take from Paris, formatted using Markdown:

Versailles

  • Location: Just outside of Paris, around 20 miles west.
  • Highlights: The Palace of Versailles, Gardens and Trianon Palaces.
  • Transportation: RER C train from central Paris stations like Invalides or Austerlitz to Versailles-Rive Gauche station, then a short shuttle bus ride.
  • Recommendations: Visit the palace in the morning to avoid crowds and explore the gardens in the afternoon. Don’t forget to check out Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet!

Giverny

  • Location: Around 50 miles northwest of Paris.
  • Highlights: The home and gardens of Claude Monet, including his famous water lily ponds.
  • Transportation: Trains from Paris Saint-Lazare station to Vernon, followed by a short bus ride or taxi to Giverny.
  • Recommendations: Visit in the spring when the flowers are blooming and the water lilies are at their best. Consider booking a guided tour for a more enriching experience.

Mont Saint-Michel

  • Location: Around 180 miles west of Paris.
  • Highlights: The stunning abbey perched on top of an island, with its tidal causeway and breathtaking views.
  • Transportation: Trains from Paris Montparnasse station to Granville, followed by a shuttle bus or taxi to Mont Saint-Michel.
  • Recommendations: Visit at high tide for dramatic views of the island and plan to spend the night in one of the nearby towns to fully experience this magical place.

Château de Chambord

  • Location: Around 150 miles southwest of Paris.
  • Highlights: The largest château in the Loire Valley, known for its distinctive French Renaissance architecture and beautiful park.
  • Transportation: Trains from central Paris stations like Austerlitz or Montparnasse to Blois, followed by a taxi or bus to Chambord.
  • Recommendations: Explore the château’s towers for panoramic views of the surrounding forest and park. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy in the park!