9 Best Day Trips From Paris (You Must Take In 2024)

Hop on a train to explore incredible French gems just hours from the city. These are the best day trips from Paris to put on your bucket list.

You could easily spend weeks exploring Paris and its secret hidden gems.

But let’s face it: it’s very easy to get lost in the tourist crowds in the city of lights. And a packed itinerary – with long museum lines – will leave you craving a slower day that dives deeper into French culture.

Luckily Paris is surrounded by enchanting palaces, medieval villages and lavender fields.

And they’re all just a short trip away – thanks to France’s comfy and well-connected network of fast-speed trains.

That means you can hop a train in the morning and be sipping bubbly at brunch in the iconic Champagne region.

I love re-visiting France and exploring these gems from a home base in Paris. It always makes for the most unforgettable experiences.

So here are all my favorite day trips from Paris – plus insider tips from France experts who know the country best!

Use this list to find your next bucket-list destination.

Best day trips from Paris:

1. Epernay

Distance from Paris: 1.5 hours by train

Hop on the train to Epernay to explore this charming town in the heart of Champagne and its luscious vineyards.

Epernay is most famous for its champagne with an entire street dedicated to its sparkling wine called Avenue de Champagne.

Make your appointments ahead of time and indulge in champagne tastings and tours all up and down this iconic street. And don’t miss the must-see Moet et Chandon Imperial or Signature tour to explore the cellars of this famous champagne house and try the world’s most famous champagne brand.

Head to the Museum of Champagne, Wine, & Regional Archaeology to learn more about why this region is so well-known for champagne. Then learn how to open a champagne bottle with a saber at Champagne Comtesse Lafond or get sweeping birds-eye views of the vineyards aboard the Ballon d’Epernay.

These romantic adventures are definitely some of the best things to do in Epernay.

Insider’s tip: Make reservations at the charming Michelin-starred La Grillade Gourmande for its delectable dishes that pair perfectly with a glass of bubbly. The sea bass is a must-try.

Book a fun bike tour to add some adventure to your Epernay day trip. The tour takes you to the nearby town of Hautvillers to see Dom Perignon’s church, ride through a vineyard and stop for a cellar visit and wine tasting.

– By Kat Weiss Butler of France Voyager

2. Rennes

Distance from Paris: 1.5 hours by train

Head to Rennes for charming half-timbered houses, a dynamic arts scene and delicious Breton specialties.

This Brittany treasure has a historic old town lined with cobblestone streets, student bars, creperies and artsy and vintage boutiques.

Visit Rennes for a bustling village atmosphere after you check off some non-touristy things to do in Paris.

Insider’s tip: Brittany is the region that created the famous crepe and eating at a creperie is mandatory! Don’t miss a stop at the charming Creperie Ouzh-Taol, a tiny and charming eatery that’s the best in the city.

Take a breather at the enchanting 19th-century Parc du Thabor with its French gardens and orangerie.

Then head to the renowned Musee des Beaux-Arts with its stunning collection of drawings by masters like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo. It’s one of France’s most important museums outside Paris!

If you’re visiting Rennes in early December, then you must get tickets to the annual Trans Musicales festival that’s renowned for launching the next big musical acts.

– By Soline of On the Road Diary 

3. Antwerp, Belgium

Distance from Paris: 2 hours by train

This historic port city is known for its gothic architecture, maritime museums and bustling diamond industry.

Start your day in Antwerp right where you arrive – at the stunning Antwerp Central Station and its exquisite Neo-Gothic facade. Rated as the world’s most beautiful train stations, you’ll find it hard to leave as you gaze at the Art Nouveau ceiling and ornate interior.

Insider’s tip: Walk to the nearby 15th-century diamond district and grab a cheese danish at Kleinblatt, an old-world Jewish bakery with iced raisin bread that’s heaven on earth.

Continue to Grote Markt (or Market Square) in the heart of Antwerp’s Old Town. Grab a beer and people-watch as you enjoy the 16th-century facades of various guild halls, the Renaissance City Hall and the iconic Brabo Fountain.

And don’t miss the magnificent Cathedral of Our Lady, a Gothic masterpiece that took 169 years to complete. Visit inside for stunning paintings by Baroque artist Peter Paul Rubens who once called Antwerp home.

– By Kelly of Girl with the Passport

4. Lyon

Distance from Paris: two hours by train

Lyon is an underrated destination with magnificent Renaissance heritage and a restaurant scene that’s on every foodie’s bucket list.

Old Lyon is packed with Renaissance heritage listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Wander the small passageways (or traboules) of Vieux Lyon that were once used by silk workers to shield their fabrics from the rain.

And don’t miss the city’s enormous Mur des Canuts, the largest mural in Europe. The detailed masterpiece spans several buildings and pays tribute to the ordinary life of the historic silk weaver’s neighborhood.

But leave plenty of time for meals because Lyon is famous for its gastronomic reputation.

Insider’s tip: Typical eateries (or bouchons) serve hearty, meat-centric Lyonnaise cuisine. These establishments date back to the 19th century and were once run by women to feed silk workers. Look for the label “Les Bouchons Lyonnais” to ensure authenticity.

Local cuisine is heavy on pork and offal, but not only. Signature dishes include quenelle de brochet, a pike dumpling with crayfish sauce, and the Salade Lyonnaise, a mix of lettuce, bacon, croutons, and a poached egg.

– By Leyla of Offbeat France 

5. Strasbourg

Distance from Paris: 1 hour and 45 minutes by train

Hop on the fast train to Strasbourg for a taste of France’s Alsace region and its special character.

Start at the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and the city’s top attraction. Take in the UNESCO-listed towering spires, intricate carvings and showstopping astronomical clock. Climb the tower for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Insider’s tip: Don’t miss the astronomical clock’s automaton show at 12:30pm. Arrive early to get your ticket and watch the different ages of life set in motion from childhood through death.

Head to Place Kleber, the city’s central square, to browse the glittering shops and unwind at a cozy cafe. And don’t miss Petite France, a picturesque neighborhood lined with half-timbered houses and charming 13th-century covered bridges.

Take a sightseeing cruise on the River Ill to take in the lovely Petite France and also the modern architecture of the European Parliament buildings.

And dig into some Alsatian cuisine for a delectable blend of French and German traditions. Try the Flammekueche (or tarte flambee), a sort of thin-crust pizza topped with creme fraiche, lardons and onions. The best is at the quaint bistro La Fignette.

– By Lisa Garrett of Travel to Lyon

6. Metz

Distance from Paris: 1 hour 20 minutes by train

Metz is a gorgeous little hidden gem that’s worth visiting for its Gothic cathedral and scenic river promenade.

Start in the enchanting Old Town and explore the impressive Saint-Etienne Cathedral, renowned for its stunning stained glass windows. This cathedral is nicknamed as the “Good Lord’s lantern” because it boasts the largest expanse of stained glass in the world – totaling some 6,496 square meters!

Take a stroll (or a boat ride) along the Moselle River promenade that flanks the city for incredible panoramic views. It’s especially magical in the summer months when the flowers are in bloom and the ambiance is magical.

Take a breather at the charming Jardin Botanique with its rose garden and greenhouses packed with orchids and palms.

Insider’s tip: Finish your day with dinner at Le P’tit Frontalier, a fantastic restaurant with an elegant dining room and regional cuisine on the menu. And head to Café P’tit Dessert for the best cakes and pastries in town.

– By Martina of PlacesofJuma

7. Brussels, Belgium

Distance from Paris: 1.5 hours by train

The glittering Belgian capital is best known for its chocolate, waffles and splendid architecture and gardens.

Start at the Grand Place, the beautiful town square surrounded by gilded Baroque-style buildings.

Just steps away is the city’s most famous resident: Manneken Pis. This small statue of a boy peeing has amused visitors for centuries.

Head to the 19th-century Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert to sample the city’s world-famous chocolates. This beautiful covered shopping arcade has the city’s most popular chocolate shops including Neuhaus, Leonidas and of course Godiva, along with quaint boutiques and cafes to satisfy every sweet tooth.

And visit the European Parliament to learn about the EU’s history and its role in modern European life. This decision-making epicenter sets Brussels apart as a unique destination that blends history and modern-day politics.

But if you find it difficult to leave this breathtaking city, then follow this 2 days in Brussels itinerary to dive deeper into the city’s fine arts museums and tasty craft beers.

– By Tamar of World by Weekend

8. Normandy

Distance from Paris: 2 hours

Normandy boasts a fascinating history and delectable regional cuisine – along with towering cliffs and sandy beaches that nature lovers will love.

Start your day on the beaches of Caen, the site of the D-Day landings during World War II. Take a stroll along the city’s historical center, visit the Caen Memorial and learn more about this dark chapter of European history at the Juno Beach Centre.

Then travel onward to Mont-Saint-Michel with its medieval abbey perched atop a rocky tidal island that rises out of the landscape like a vision. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the 8th-century abbey has served both as monastery and one-time prison.

And don’t miss Normandy’s rich local cuisine with fresh seafood from the shore and cider from the abundant apple orchards. Dig into some moules-frites for brunch (or mussels steamed in white wine served with crispy fries) for a quintessential Norman dish.

End your day at the charming town of Honfleur with its beautiful harbor, bustling markets and half-timbered houses.

Load up on Calvados (apple brandy) and handmade jewelry and pottery made by local Honfleur artisans.

It’s not easy to leave Normandy! If you’re tempted to stay, use this Road Trip to Normandy Itinerary to plan a longer visit.

– By Lavina D’Souza of Continent Hop

9. Bordeaux

Distance from Paris: 2 hours by train

Bordeaux is a quaint riverside town that’s quickly becoming the choice destination for Parisians looking to escape big city life.

Perched on the banks of the Garonne River, Bordeaux is famously known as the world’s wine capital.

But it has a lot more to offer! Bordeaux is worth visiting with a historic city center on the UNESCO list, epic shopping and a rich local cuisine.

Start your day at Mirroir d’Eau, the world’s largest reflective pool in front of the ornate Place de la Bourse.

Then stroll the cobblestone streets to admire the city’s historic gates- Porte Cailhau and Grosse Cloche are the most beautiful.

Insider’s tip: Bordeaux locals love wine and fine dining so you’re spoiled for choice at dinner. Skip the long lines at L’Entrecote. And head instead to La Brasserie Bordelaise in the city center – the best spot to try regional specialties.

And don’t miss Rue Sainte Catherine, the longest pedestrian street in Europe with a total of 3 km of shop windows to take in. You’ll find all the French high street classics (like Galerie Lafayette) and many unique local shops and boutiques.

– By Natali of She’s Abroad Again