Day Trips from Paris - If you’re planning a trip to Paris, you probably already have a bucket list of must-see attractions. While the City of Lights certainly has no shortage of places to explore, there are plenty of exciting day trips from Paris just outside the city limits.

As a Singaporean traveler, you'll want to make the most of your French adventure by discovering the best places to visit near Paris. In this post will look at 10-day trip activities that are well worth the journey.

From historic towns to picturesque countryside, these destinations will give you a taste of French culture beyond the capital. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore!

Here are 10 of the best day trip ideas outside Paris that are sure to make your French adventure unforgettable:

Imagine being transported back in time to the 17th century, where the magnificence of royalty is shown everywhere—that’ll probably be your first thought when you visit Versailles. This is truly the answer if you’re confused about where to go near Paris.

The Palace of Versailles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or just sheer beauty. As you explore the palace's opulent halls, extravagant gardens, pretty fountains, and intricate architecture—you'll get a glimpse into the life of French monarchs and the lavishness of their court!

To learn about the history and significance of this iconic landmark, it is recommended to take a guided tour or rent an audio guide.

If you love art, nature, and all things beautiful, then visiting Giverny is an absolute must. Located just 75km (47 miles) from Paris, this picturesque village is a tranquil oasis that inspired the works of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet.

As you walk through the lush gardens of Monet's former home, you'll be transported to a world of vibrant colors and fragrant flowers, just as he was. The Japanese Bridge and Water Lily Pond, famously depicted in Monet's artwork, are mesmerizing and make an incredible photo opportunity.

But Giverny is more than just a tribute to Monet's art; it's also a charming French countryside town with quaint streets, local shops, and delicious cuisine.

Mont Saint-Michel is a stunning island in the English Channel. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a stunning medieval abbey built on a small rocky island off the coast of Normandy.

Explore the narrow streets and shops of the surrounding village, and take a guided tour of the abbey to learn about its fascinating history. And suppose you're lucky enough to visit during high tide. In that case, you'll witness the phenomenon of the "tide of the century," where the island is completely surrounded by water, adding an extra layer of magic.

So why not add Mont Saint-Michel to your itinerary and experience its wonder?

Visit this elegant 16th-century castle and its beautiful gardens, which inspired many French painters and writers. The chateau boasts an impressive art collection, including works by Raphael, Watteau, and Delacroix and a fascinating library containing over 40,000 books.

But it's not just the impressive interior - the gardens and park surrounding the chateau are equally breathtaking. From the English garden with its waterfalls and bridges to the French-style garden with its intricate maze and impressive fountains, Château de Chantilly offers a visual feast that will leave you in awe.

On your way home, don't forget to try the famous Chantilly-originated Chantilly cream, a sweet, whipped cream that is flavored with vanilla and sugar—it’s light and fluffy!

Fontainebleau is a town close to Paris known for its beautiful forests and famous château, the Château de Fontainebleau. It’s a former royal residence with stunning Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Here, you can have a guided tour to learn about its rich history and art collections.

Moreover, many fun outdoor activities exist, like hiking, horseback riding, or rock climbing. The town also has a rich artistic history, with many famous painters, including Jean-François Millet and Théodore Rousseau, being inspired by the area.

When visiting Fontainebleau, stop by nearby cafes to try traditional French cuisine, like the brie de Melun cheese.

Visit the historic city of Reims, the traditional site of French coronations and the heart of the Champagne region. Located in the Champagne region of France, it’s famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and of course, its champagne.

Besides taking a sip of the alluring champagne collections from local champagne houses, you can also take a guided tour of the beautiful Reims Cathedral, where French kings were crowned—you’ll be captivated by its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate details. You can also simply take a light stroll and explore the city's lively streets and shops.

Rouen is a charming city located in the Normandy region of France, known for its beautiful Gothic architecture, lively markets, and museums. While visiting Rouen, there are many unique things to see and do.

One of the most unique things about Rouen is its stunning Gothic architecture—the infamous representative of the Rouen Cathedral. The cathedral is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in France and is a must-see attraction for visitors to the city.

Another option for a spot with amazing architecture is the Notre Dame Cathedral, home to one of the tallest church spires in France.

You can also experience the city's connection to the famous French heroine, Joan of Arc. You can see the place where she was burned at the stake and a museum dedicated to her life and legacy. Rouen also has a statue of Joan of Arc in the city center, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is a magnificent 17th-century French chateau located in Maincy, about 50 kilometers southeast of Paris. It is widely considered one of Europe's most beautiful and well-preserved castles, which inspired the Palace of Versailles. It is a must-visit destination if you’re interested in history, architecture, or culture.

What makes the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte truly unique is that it was designed and built by a trio of master craftsmen: the architect Louis Le Vau, the landscape designer André Le Nôtre, and the painter-decorator Charles Le Brun.

When you drop by this place, feel free to explore the castle's sumptuous interiors, including its grand staircase, drawing rooms, and bedrooms, all decorated in the lavish Baroque style. Plus, stroll through the castle's extensive, lavish gardens to recharge!

Chartres is the perfect destination if you’re a lover of historical places. Located in the Centre-Val de Loire region of France, Chartres is known for its Gothic cathedral, built in the 13th century and considered one of the best-preserved examples of French High Gothic architecture—the cathedral has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage site!

Moreover, Chartres has a charming old town with half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and peaceful squares. The city also has several museums, including the Fine Arts Museum, Natural History Museum, and International Stained Glass Centre, which houses an impressive collection of stained glass windows from the Middle Ages to the present.

Interestingly, you can also explore Chartres' underground passages, "les souterrains," which served as storage areas, warehouses, and secret meeting places for centuries.

Being the farthest on the list, Honfleur is the spot if you’re wondering where to go outside Paris. Known for its old, colorful buildings, picturesque harbor, traditional thatched cottages, and cobblestone streets, its beauty will surely impress you.

You can eat local food in cafes and see art at the Eugène Boudin Museum when you're there. Don't miss the wooden bell tower at Saint Catherine's Church. You can also visit markets to try local food and take a boat tour for a unique experience!

Most of these day trip destinations can be reached by train, with many departing from Paris' main train stations, such as Gare du Nord or Gare Montparnasse. Alternatively, you can rent a car or book a guided tour to make transportation easier.

In conclusion, Paris is an incredible city to explore, but there are also many exciting day trips just outside the city limits. Whether you're interested in history, art, or nature or just want to soak up the beauty of the French countryside, there's something for everyone within easy reach of Paris.

From the stunning Palace of Versailles to the picturesque village of Giverny and the impressive Château de Chantilly, these day trips offer a fascinating glimpse into French culture and history. And, for those with a bit more time, the Normandy region provides a wealth of historical and natural attractions to explore.

Not only Articles about Day Trips from Paris that Traveloka provides, but we also have a lot of best-recommended articles for you guys to read! Here is the list of the best Articles recommendation special for you:

Whether traveling solo, with friends, or with family, these day trips are a great way to add variety and excitement to your Parisian adventure. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the best that France has to offer!