15 Incredible Day Trips from Paris: From Beaches to Vineyards

Paris is magical, but there's so much more just beyond the city limits. Whether you’re craving coastal history, countryside charm, or a sip of something sparkling, these day trips from Paris will leave you breathless. From the beaches of Normandy to the sparkling cellars of Champagne, here are 15 unforgettable escapes you can do in a day.

1. Champagne Country (Reims & Épernay)

Just 45 minutes by train or van from Paris, Reims and Épernay are the beating heart of France’s Champagne region. In Reims, visit prestigious houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, or Moët & Chandon, and walk through historic chalk cellars that date back centuries. In Épernay, don’t miss the Avenue de Champagne, lined with iconic maisons and hidden gems, a dream for any wine lover.

Want a carefree, experience? I highly recommend this Small-Group Champagne Tour from Paris with a 3-Course Lunch.

Here’s what to expect with this experience:

• Roundtrip transportation from your Paris hotel

• Guided tour of a major Champagne house like Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Mercier, or Nicolas Feuillatte (based on availability)

• Visit to a smaller, independent estate for an intimate look at artisanal production

• A delicious 3-course lunch at a local French restaurant

• A vineyard walk to learn about Champagne grapes and terroir

• Multiple tastings, including a blind tasting session to help you tell the difference between styles like Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Rosé, and more

• Drop-off back at your hotel — relaxed and full of bubbles and knowledge

This tour made us appreciate Champagne in a whole new way. The scenery, the stories, and the sipping made the experience unforgettable.

2. Van Gogh’s House in Auvers-sur-Oise (with Giverny)

Step into the world of two of the most iconic artists in history, Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh, all in one unforgettable day trip from Paris.

We highly recommend this Small-Group Giverny and Van Gogh’s Room Tour from Paris, which beautifully combines Monet’s peaceful gardens with Van Gogh’s haunting final chapter.

Here’s what to expect on this emotional and art-filled day:

Giverny

• Stroll through Claude Monet’s Clos Normand and Japanese Water Gardens, where the willow trees, arched green bridge, and pond of lilies feel like walking through one of his paintings.

• Explore Monet’s beautiful home, seeing where he lived and worked.

• Stop at his final resting place, a peaceful moment to reflect on his lasting legacy.

Auvers-sur-Oise

• Dive into the life and final months of Vincent van Gogh in this quiet village.

• Visit the Auberge Ravoux, the boarding house where he spent his last 70 days and created over 70 paintings.

• Walk through the “Wheat Field with Crows”, visit the Church of Auvers (made famous in his paintings), and stand beside his and Theo's ivy-covered graves.

• Being there in person gives you a whole new understanding of the emotion and turmoil behind his final works.

This tour gave us a deep, personal connection to both artists, from Monet’s famous water lilies to Van Gogh’s raw, emotional brushstrokes. Having studied art in college this tour gave me a new appreciation for their art, the beauty in their brushstrokes, this day trip is absolutely worth it.

3. Normandy D-Day Beaches

Visiting the D-Day sites in Normandy is a somber, powerful, and humbling experience, one that will stay with me forever.

I highly recommend this Normandy D-Day Sites Guided Day Trip with Lunch from Paris, which takes you on a full-day journey through key historical landmarks and battlefields with the insight of a knowledgeable guide.

Here’s what the experience includes:

Utah Beach Museum
Start the day at the Utah Beach Museum, located in an original German bunker. You’ll learn the detailed planning behind Operation Overlord and see one of the last remaining B-26 bombers in the world, with sweeping views of the beach where American troops first landed.

Norman-Style Lunch
Next, enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch at a charming local restaurant overlooking the port of Grandcamp-Maisy, a relaxing break and a taste of regional cuisine.

Pointe du Hoc
Walk among the bomb-scarred cliffs of Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled the rock face under heavy fire to take out German defenses. The landscape is raw, untouched, and deeply moving.

Omaha Beach
Then it’s on to Omaha Beach, one of the most iconic and fiercely defended landing zones. You’ll have time to walk the shoreline, I highly recommend doing this. Standing on that sand, where so many fought and died, brings an emotional gravity I wasn't prepare for. It’s quiet. Reflective. Unforgettable.

Important Note: Don’t forget your passport, it’s required to enter the museum and cemetery grounds.

Normandy American Cemetery
The final stop is the Normandy American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. With its immaculate rows of white crosses and Stars of David, this resting place honors nearly 10,000 American soldiers. Be sure to visit the reflecting pool, the memorial, and the grave of Theodore Roosevelt Jr., a Medal of Honor recipient. It’s a peaceful yet emotional end to the day. I cannot recommend this enough to walk on the shoreline, I found looking up the hill emotional.

This day trip is more than sightseeing, it’s a tribute to courage, sacrifice, and freedom. If you want to understand the weight of D-Day, this is the way to do it.

4. Versailles

One of the most iconic royal residences in the world, the Palace of Versailles is just a quick train ride (or easy tour) from Paris — and it’s every bit as grand as you imagine.

For a seamless and enriching experience, consider booking this Versailles Guided Tour by Deluxe Minibus from Paris. You’ll enjoy comfortable transport, skip-the-line access, and a knowledgeable guide who brings the palace’s history to life.

Here’s what you’ll experience on the tour:

Inside the Château
Step into the extravagant world of Louis XIV with a guided tour of the Queen’s Bedroom, the Great Apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Gallery of Battles. You’ll also see stunning works by Le Brun, the Sun King’s favorite painter, and portraits of the palace’s historic residents.

The Gardens of Versailles
After the interior tour, you’ll have time to explore the magnificent “à la française” gardens at your own pace — a manicured, magical escape filled with fountains, sculptures, and tree-lined paths.

Stress-Free Transport
This small-group tour includes round-trip transportation in a deluxe minibus and drop-off in central Paris, perfect for travelers who want to avoid train logistics and crowds.

Pro Tip: Go early and with a guide. Versailles is beautiful, but can get very busy. This tour helps you skip the lines and focus on soaking in the beauty and stories behind the walls.

5. Giverny (Monet’s Garden)

If you love Impressionist art, a visit to Giverny is like stepping into one of Claude Monet’s paintings. This charming village was his home for over 40 years and remains a peaceful, flower-filled escape that captures the heart of every visitor.

For an unforgettable experience that pairs Monet’s peaceful retreat with royal grandeur, check out this Giverny and Versailles Palace Guided Day Trip from Paris.

Here’s what the tour includes:

Monet’s Home & Gardens
Start your day in Giverny, where you'll visit Monet’s ivy-covered house and explore the stunning gardens that inspired his most iconic masterpieces. Stroll through the Japanese bridge, admire the water lily pond, and wander flower-lined paths at your own pace using a handy self-guided app. It truly feels like you’re walking through an Impressionist canvas.

Lunch in Town
After your visit, enjoy free time for lunch in the village, with plenty of cafés and bistros offering delicious local fare (meal not included in tour price).

Versailles Palace & Gardens
In the afternoon, you’ll head to the Palace of Versailles, where you’ll skip the line and dive into the opulence of French royalty. Your expert guide will walk you through the Hall of Mirrors, the royal apartments, and more, sharing fascinating stories of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette. You’ll also have time to roam the gardens on your own before returning to Paris by coach.

This tour is a beautiful blend of art, history, and nature, perfect for those who want to escape the city and dive deeper into France’s rich cultural legacy — all in one well-paced, stress-free day.

6. Fontainebleau

If you want royal splendor without the crowds, head to Fontainebleau, a breathtaking palace with just as much history (and even more intimacy) than Versailles. Plus, you can make it a full day of French elegance by pairing it with Vaux-le-Vicomte, the château that inspired Versailles itself.

i recommend this Fontainebleau & Vaux-le-Vicomte Châteaux Day Tour from Paris for an easy, comfortable, and inspiring experience.

Here’s what’s included on this full-day tour:

Vaux-le-Vicomte Château
Begin your day with a visit to this 17th-century architectural masterpiece, created by three of France’s most brilliant artists, Le Vau (architect), Le Nôtre (landscape designer), and Le Brun (interior painter) for the wealthy financier Nicolas Fouquet. Explore the château’s ornate rooms, vaulted cellars, and beautifully sculpted French-style gardens with an audio guide. You’ll also have time to enjoy lunch on the lawn or at the on-site restaurant (meal not included).

Fontainebleau Palace
Next, travel deep into the forest of Fontainebleau to visit one of France’s oldest and most continuously inhabited royal residences, used by monarchs from Francis I to Napoleon III. With your audio guide, explore Napoleon’s throne room, lavish apartments, and the palace’s iconic horseshoe staircase. Don’t miss the sprawling gardens, perfect for a peaceful stroll.

Round-trip from Paris
The tour includes comfortable coach transportation to and from Paris, with plenty of time to enjoy both estates without feeling rushed.

Why I loved it:
Fontainebleau felt like a true hidden gem, rich in history, lavish in design, and surrounded by peaceful walks through nature. Paired with the stunning Vaux-le-Vicomte, it’s a fairytale day outside the city.

7. Chantilly

If you’re looking for elegance, art, and a touch of equestrian magic just outside Paris, Château de Chantilly delivers it all. This stunning estate feels like a real-life fairytale — complete with moats, manicured gardens, and regal history.

For a seamless, enriching experience, we recommend this Private Tour of Domaine de Chantilly with Ticket & Transfer from Paris. It includes transportation and access to the château, gardens, and the famous horse museum.

Here’s what you’ll enjoy on this unforgettable day trip:

Château de Chantilly
Step into the ancestral home of the Prince de Condé and Duc d'Aumale, nestled within 7,800 hectares of forest. The château houses a breathtaking collection of 1,000 paintings, 2,500 drawings, and rare works by Raphaël, Ingres, Poussin, and Delacroix, plus 30,000 historic books. Don’t miss the newly reopened Galerie des Batailles, featuring 12 epic paintings celebrating French military victories.

Stroll the Gardens
After your tour of the palace, you’ll explore the magnificent French formal gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre. Then step into something truly unique, the Anglo-Chinese garden, complete with a charming hamlet and romantic vibes that feel worlds away from the city.

The Living Horse Museum
Your visit continues at the Grandes Écuries, Europe’s largest stables and a masterpiece of 18th-century architecture. Here, you’ll find 30 competition horses and the world-renowned Living Horse Museum, which showcases the deep bond between France’s nobility and equestrian culture. If time allows, catch a live equestrian show, they’re unforgettable.

Don’t forget the crème Chantilly!
Yes, that delicious sweet whipped cream was born here. Be sure to try it, preferably with a dessert or coffee while overlooking the gardens.

Chantilly offers a perfect blend of art, architecture, history, and nature, all less than an hour from Paris. Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or just in it for the whipped cream, this day trip is a gem.

8. Reims

Yes, it’s part of Champagne country, but Reims truly deserves a day of its own. Home to the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, where generations of French kings were crowned, the city offers a beautiful blend of history, amazing architecture, and world-class Champagne.

To make the most of your visit, we recommend this Day Trip to Champagne from Paris with 8 Tastings & Lunch. This small-group tour offers an incredible mix of culture, tastings, and scenic countryside, all with the ease of hotel pickup and expert guidance.

Here’s what your day looks like:

• Start with hotel pickup in central Paris and settle into a comfy, air-conditioned minivan with your guide. Enjoy fresh croissants as you learn about the Champagne region’s rich traditions and history.

• Your first stop is a guided visit to a major Champagne house such as Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, or Nicolas Feuillatte. Explore the underground chalk cellars, learn the step-by-step production process, and enjoy your first tasting of the day.

• Then, take a scenic drive through the vineyards, where your wine expert guide will host a vineyard-side tasting and explain the importance of terroir, grape varietals, and aging techniques.

• Enjoy a traditional French lunch at a charming local restaurant or family-run Champagne house. Taste several Champagne styles — like Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Rosé, or ratafia (a sweet local liqueur) — perfectly paired with a multi-course meal of classic regional cuisine.

• In the afternoon, visit a smaller, independent producer or cooperative, where you’ll gain a more intimate perspective on Champagne making. Your day ends, of course, with another tasting.

• Finally, relax on the return drive and enjoy a convenient drop-off in central Paris (or at your hotel if you’ve selected the private tour option).

Bonus Tip: If you're visiting Reims on your own, don’t miss lunch at Château les Crayères. This refined château sits on lush, landscaped grounds and offers an exceptional dining experience, this was the most memorable meal of our trip. The ambiance, the grounds, service, and cuisine were absolute perfection. I absolutely loved my time at Château les Crayères.

9. Disneyland Paris

Whether you're traveling with kids or just young at heart, Disneyland® Paris is the perfect magical escape, and it’s less than an hour from the city! With two parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park, you’ll find thrilling rides, dazzling parades, and all your favorite characters, sprinkled with a bit of French flair.

The easiest way to visit? Book the Disneyland® Paris Tickets and Shuttle Transport, which includes round-trip transportation from central Paris plus park entrance, no hassle, no stress.

Here’s how it works:

• Hop on the Disneyland® Paris Express shuttle, which picks up from five strategic locations in the city: Eiffel Tower, Gare du Nord, Opéra, Châtelet, and Montparnasse.

• Travel in air-conditioned comfort straight to the park gates.

• Your park tickets (for one or both parks, depending on your choice) will be available for download the day before your trip at 12:00 PM. Don’t worry — a host will be available at your departure point if you need help downloading them.

Once you arrive, choose your adventure:

• Ride classics like Big Thunder Mountain and Space Mountain

• Catch magical parades and shows

• Dive into behind-the-scenes fun at Walt Disney Studios

• Enjoy themed restaurants, treats, and meet-and-greets with your favorite characters

This is hands-down one of the most convenient and family-friendly day trips from Paris, and it delivers all the joy and nostalgia Disney is known for.

10. Parc de Sceaux

If you want a peaceful, nearby escape with fewer tourists, Sceaux is a gem. The château houses a small museum, and the gardens (designed by Le Nôtre, who also did Versailles) are perfect for a relaxed afternoon. Spring Japanese cherry blossoms here are especially stunning.

11. Lille

Hop on the high-speed train and be in Lille in about an hour. This northern French city blends Flemish and French architecture, rich museums, and excellent food. It’s lively, charming, and often overlooked by international travelers — which makes it all the more delightful.

12. Mont Saint-Michel

It may be a long day from Paris — but Mont Saint-Michel is the kind of place that makes every mile worth it. Rising dramatically from the sea like something out of a fantasy novel, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most iconic and magical destinations in all of France.

For the most comfortable and scenic experience, we recommend this Day Trip to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris. Travel in an air-conditioned coach, explore at your own pace or with a live guide or audioguide, and enjoy stress-free access to one of France’s true wonders.

What the day includes:

• Depart Paris aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, passing through the picturesque Normandy countryside along the way.

• Stop for a short break in a charming Norman village, where you can stretch your legs and soak in the scenery.

• Continue to the mouth of the Couesnon River, where Mont Saint-Michel rises just offshore — a stunning sight that never gets old.

Once on the island, you’ll have time to:
Wander the winding streets and climb the medieval ramparts
Visit the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel (entrance included), a 13th-century Gothic masterpiece perched at the top of the island
Take in sweeping views of the bay, especially beautiful at low tide
Capture unforgettable photos at every turn, this place is a photographer’s dream

After a full afternoon of exploring, relax on the drive back to Paris, dropped off at your original departure point.

Mont Saint-Michel is more than a day trip, it's an experience that blends history, architecture, and natural beauty in the most breathtaking way. Just be sure to wear comfy shoes, and don’t forget your camera.

13. Sancerre Wine Country

If you’re a fan of Sauvignon Blanc, then Sancerre is your dream day trip. Rolling green hills, charming medieval villages, and endless vineyards make this one of the most scenic, and delicious, escapes from Paris.

To truly experience the magic of this region, consider booking the Wine Day Trip to Sancerre from Paris with 10 Tastings & Lunch. With hotel pickup, a wine expert guide, and a small group of no more than 8 guests, this is an immersive, all-inclusive wine adventure.

What the day includes:

• Morning hotel pickup in Paris and a warm welcome from your English-speaking wine expert, complete with a fresh croissant as you head out through the countryside.

• Visit at least two family-owned wineries, where you’ll tour the cellars and taste wines from Sancerre’s three legendary terroirs:

  • Les Calcaires (limestone)

  • Les Terres Blanches (white clay)

  • Les Silex (flint)
    Each one produces wines with distinct character, and you’ll taste the difference yourself.

• Take a short scenic drive through the vineyards and stop for a glass of wine with panoramic views over the Sancerre valley — a highlight of the day!

• Sit down for a traditional French lunch at a family-run estate, paired with several of their wines. You'll also sample the region’s prized AOC Crottin de Chavignol goat cheese — a match made in wine-and-cheese heaven.

• In the afternoon, visit a third winery, with the chance to taste wines from nearby appellations like Pouilly-Fumé or Menetou-Salon, depending on availability.

• Finally, your guide will drive you back to Paris, with a central drop-off, ending a perfect day of wine, food, and French countryside charm.

Whether you're a wine connoisseur or just looking for a peaceful, flavorful escape, Sancerre offers an authentic and enriching experience — one that will leave your palate happy and your heart full.

14. Loire Valley (Châteaux & Wine)

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a storybook, the Loire Valley is where that dream comes to life. Known as the “Garden of France,” this region is dotted with fairytale castles, rolling vineyards, and charming towns — all just a few hours from Paris.

For a perfectly curated day of castle-hopping and wine tasting, we recommend the Loire Valley Castles Day Trip with Wine Tasting from Paris. It’s an all-in-one experience that blends history, architecture, and French wine — all in one unforgettable day.

Here's what your day includes:

• Depart Paris by air-conditioned coach, heading straight into the lush, scenic Loire Valley.

• Your first stop: the magnificent Château de Chambord, a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture (and inspiration for Disney’s Beauty and the Beast castle!). Tour the château at your own pace, climb the Leonardo da Vinci–inspired double helix staircase, and take in sweeping views from the turreted rooftop.

• Next, head to the historic town of Blois, where you’ll have free time for lunch (not included). Grab a bite at one of the cafés around the vibrant Square Louis XII, and enjoy the small-town charm.

• Then it’s on to Château de Chenonceau, arguably the most romantic castle in France. Known as “the Ladies’ Château”, Chenonceau spans the River Cher with its grand stone arches. Tour the richly furnished rooms, royal gardens, and beautiful kitchens once overseen by powerful women like Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de Medici.

• Before heading back to Paris, indulge in a wine tasting in Chenonceau’s vaulted wine cellar, the perfect toast to a day full of elegance and history.

Along the way, your tour leader will share fascinating stories about French royalty, château legends, and the winemaking heritage of the region.

Three unforgettable castles, one charming town, and a glass of wine (or several), this is the ultimate Loire Valley experience. Equal parts magical, scenic, and sophisticated, it’s a must-do for anyone visiting Paris.

15. Rouen

This Norman city is full of half-timbered houses, gothic churches, and history. Rouen was where Joan of Arc was tried and executed. The old town is walkable and full of charm, great for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

Paris is only the beginning. Whether you're sipping champagne in ancient caves, standing where history was made on a quiet beach, or wandering gardens that inspired masterworks, these day trips offer depth, beauty, and variety.

If you're planning your Paris itinerary — don’t just stay in the city. Let these day trips expand your view of France.

Learning a few simple phrases in the local language can go a long way when traveling, it shows respect, helps you connect with locals, and can make your trip smoother. Check out these language tools to get started: Rocket Languages, Duolingo, Babbel.