Are you ready for a quick escape from the buzz of Paris?
Whether it’s stepping back in time at the Palace of Versailles, getting lost in the picturesque gardens of Giverny, or hopping over to another country for the day, the options are endless and exciting!
Read on to discover the best day trips from Paris by train.
1. Loire Valley
Route: Paris to various Loire Valley destinations like Tours or Amboise.
Journey Time: About 1-2 hours, depending on the destination.
Train Details: High-speed TGV or regional trains from Paris Montparnasse or Austerlitz.
Ticket Information: Tickets available online or at train stations.
Stops Along the Way: Varies based on the destination and service.
The Loire Valley, often referred to as the “Garden of France,” is famed for its vineyards, orchards, and historic châteaux like Chambord and Chenonceau. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a visual delight for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and wine connoisseurs.
2. Mont Saint-Michel
Route: Paris to Rennes or Pontorson, then a bus or shuttle to Mont Saint-Michel.
Journey Time: About 3 hours to Rennes, then additional time for the bus or shuttle.
Train Details: TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Rennes or regional trains to Pontorson.
Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online, with additional arrangements for bus or shuttle.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service to Rennes; regional trains may have stops.
Mont Saint-Michel, a spectacular medieval abbey perched on a rocky islet, is one of France’s most iconic landmarks. The journey there, though longer, offers a glimpse into the breathtaking Normandy countryside and a unique medieval experience.
3. Chantilly
Route: Paris to Chantilly-Gouvieux.
Journey Time: About 25 minutes.
Train Details: Regular trains from Paris Gare du Nord.
Ticket Information: Available at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Chantilly is renowned for its magnificent château, set amidst vast forests and gardens. The Château de Chantilly houses an exquisite collection of art and a beautiful park, making it an ideal destination for a tranquil and culturally rich day out.
4. Rouen
Route: Paris to Rouen.
Journey Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Train Details: Intercity trains from Paris Saint-Lazare.
Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Various, depending on the service.
Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is known for its impressive Gothic cathedral and historical ties to Joan of Arc. The city offers a blend of rich history and modern culture, with its medieval architecture and vibrant arts scene.
5. Provins
Route: Paris to Provins.
Journey Time: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train Details: Direct trains from Paris Est.
Ticket Information: Available at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming medieval town known for its well-preserved fortifications and structures. Visitors can step back in time and explore the town’s medieval walls, towers, and underground galleries.
6. Chartres
Route: Paris to Chartres.
Journey Time: About 1 hour.
Train Details: Regular trains from Paris Montparnasse.
Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Chartres is most famous for its Cathedral of Chartres, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also offers charming streets, quaint shops, and a peaceful ambiance, perfect for a relaxing day trip.
7. Disneyland Paris
Route: Paris to Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy.
Journey Time: Around 35 minutes.
Train Details: RER A train from various stations in central Paris.
Ticket Information: RER tickets can be purchased at any Paris RER or metro station.
Stops Along the Way: Various, as it’s an RER service.
Disneyland Paris, located in Marne-la-Vallée, is a magical destination for families and Disney enthusiasts. The park offers a mix of thrilling rides, beloved characters, and spectacular shows, making it a fun-filled escape from the city.
8. Troyes
Route: Paris to Troyes.
Journey Time: About 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train Details: Direct trains from Paris Est.
Ticket Information: Available at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Troyes is a medieval town known for its timber-framed houses, Gothic churches, and a charming old town. The town is also a great destination for shopping, particularly at its famous factory outlets.
9. Amiens
Route: Paris to Amiens.
Journey Time: About 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Train Details: Regular trains from Paris Nord.
Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Various, depending on the service.
Amiens, home to France’s largest Gothic cathedral, is also famous for its “Hortillonnages,” or floating gardens. The city offers a mix of architectural beauty, historical significance, and natural charm.
10. Bourgogne (Burgundy)
Route: Paris to Beaune or Dijon for Burgundy.
Journey Time: Around 2 hours to Beaune, 1 hour and 40 minutes to Dijon.
Train Details: High-speed TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon.
Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service to Dijon; Beaune may require a change.
Burgundy is renowned for its wines and picturesque landscapes. The region offers scenic vineyards, historical towns, and opportunities for wine tasting, making it a haven for wine lovers and those seeking a serene countryside experience.
11. London, UK
Route: Paris to London St Pancras International.
Journey Time: About 2 hours and 20 minutes.
Train Details: Eurostar high-speed train through the Channel Tunnel.
Ticket Information: Advanced booking recommended; tickets available online.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
London offers a blend of historic charm and modern dynamism. Iconic sights like the British Museum, Buckingham Palace, and a stroll along the River Thames provide a fulfilling cultural experience. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, shopping districts, and parks make it an exciting day trip destination.
12. Brussels, Belgium
Route: Paris to Brussels-Midi.
Journey Time: About 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Train Details: High-speed Thalys trains or Eurostar.
Ticket Information: Available online or at stations; advance booking recommended.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Brussels, the heart of Europe, is famous for its Grand Place, Manneken Pis statue, and incredible chocolate. The city combines historical charm with a lively atmosphere, offering a variety of museums, art galleries, and exquisite dining experiences.
13. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Route: Paris to Amsterdam Centraal.
Journey Time: About 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Train Details: Thalys high-speed train or Eurostar.
Ticket Information: Advanced booking recommended; available online.
Stops Along the Way: Antwerp, Rotterdam, among others.
Amsterdam is a city of picturesque canals, historic houses, and rich cultural heritage. Key attractions include the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Rijksmuseum. Its relaxed atmosphere and bike-friendly streets make it a delightful destination.
14. Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Route: Paris to Luxembourg.
Journey Time: About 2 hours and 30 minutes.
Train Details: Direct TGV or Intercity trains.
Ticket Information: Tickets available at stations or online.
Stops Along the Way: Metz, Thionville, among others.
Luxembourg City offers a mix of modernity and history, set in a dramatic landscape. The city’s old fortifications, the Grand Ducal Palace, and the beautiful Chemin de la Corniche are highlights. It’s a compact city, perfect for exploring on foot.
15. Cologne, Germany
Route: Paris to Cologne.
Journey Time: About 3 hours and 20 minutes.
Train Details: High-speed Thalys trains.
Ticket Information: Available online or at stations; advance booking recommended.
Stops Along the Way: Brussels, Liège, among others.
Cologne is known for its impressive Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also offers a charming old town, riverside promenades, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a worthwhile visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
16. Geneva, Switzerland
Route: Paris to Geneva.
Journey Time: Around 3 hours.
Train Details: Direct TGV Lyria trains.
Ticket Information: Tickets available online or at train stations.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Although a longer journey, Geneva’s picturesque setting by Lake Geneva and its role as a diplomatic hub make it an intriguing day trip. The city offers a blend of natural beauty, international flair, and attractions like the Jet d’Eau and the United Nations office.
17. Strasbourg, France
Route: Paris to Strasbourg.
Journey Time: About 1 hour and 50 minutes.
Train Details: High-speed TGV or ICE trains.
Ticket Information: Tickets can be purchased online or at stations.
Stops Along the Way: Direct service, no major stops.
Strasbourg, on the French-German border, showcases a unique blend of cultures. Its stunning cathedral, the picturesque district of La Petite France, and the European Parliament make it a diverse and appealing destination.
18. Rotterdam, Netherlands
Route: Paris to Rotterdam.
Journey Time: About 2 hours and 40 minutes.
Train Details: Thalys high-speed train.
Ticket Information: Available online or at train stations; booking in advance is recommended.
Stops Along the Way: Brussels, Antwerp, among others.
Rotterdam is known for its modern architecture, including the Cube Houses and the impressive Markthal. The city’s maritime museum and vibrant art scene make it a refreshing change of pace from traditional European cities.
19. Frankfurt, Germany
Route: Paris to Frankfurt.
Journey Time: About 3 hours and 40 minutes.
Train Details: High-speed ICE or TGV trains.
Ticket Information: Available online or at stations; advance booking recommended.
Stops Along the Way: Mannheim, Karlsruhe, among others.
Frankfurt, a major financial hub, is also rich in history and culture. The city’s skyline is dotted with skyscrapers, while the historic Römer and the Main Tower offer contrasting architectural delights. Frankfurt’s museums and the old Sachsenhausen district provide a deeper look into its heritage.
Main Train Stations In Paris
Gare du Nord
One of the busiest train stations in Europe, it serves northern France and international destinations including the UK (London), Belgium (Brussels), and the Netherlands (Amsterdam). The Eurostar to London departs from here.
Gare de l’Est
Located near Gare du Nord, it serves eastern France and international destinations such as Germany, Luxembourg, and Switzerland. High-speed TGV and ICE trains operate from here.
Gare de Lyon
One of the largest stations in Paris, it serves southern and eastern France, including cities like Lyon, Marseille, and Nice. It’s also the terminal for trains to Switzerland, Italy, and Spain.
Gare Saint-Lazare
This station mainly serves regions in northwest France, including Normandy. It’s one of the busiest stations in Paris, with frequent regional and commuter trains.
Gare Montparnasse
The main terminus for trains heading to western and southwestern France, including Bordeaux, Nantes, and Toulouse. It’s also the departure point for high-speed TGV Atlantique trains.
Gare d’Austerlitz
Serving central and southwestern France, including destinations like Orleans and Limoges. It also operates night trains to various French cities and international destinations.
Gare de Bercy
Mainly used for overnight and auto-trains to destinations across France. It also serves some regular regional trains.
Gare de Marne-la-Vallée – Chessy
Located near Disneyland Paris, this station is used primarily by Eurostar trains and regional RER services.
