In other projects Wikimedia Commons; Wikivoyage The Orient Express . You can visit Omaha Beach, Utah Beach, and other historic sites to learn about the events of June 6, 1944. Vieux Lilleis the citys historic center, characterized by 17th-century brick townhouses and cobbled pedestrian streets. Luxembourg The next country on our list is Luxembourg. If youre a fan of art, be sure to check out the Muse des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, which houses an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures. Its construction started in 1220 and tok more than 300 years to finish. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. Rue Verrerie is another beautiful place to wander and admire, as its full of half-timbered houses, dessert shops, and unique stores. It is not necessary to buy train tickets in advance. If youre feeling peckish, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes in town to choose from. Yes, it is possible to do day trips from Paris by train to other countries. Take some time to explore the area and grab a bite to eat at one of the many cafes and restaurants. Next, make your way to the Atomium, a unique structure that was built for the 1958 Worlds Fair. You can take a boat tour through the gardens and learn about the history of the area. Gare dAusterlitz is the train station serving central and southern France. Lisbon to Avignon, Marseille, Lyon, . It is only a 1-hour 34 min ride by regional train fromParis St Lazare. For art lovers, the Centre Pompidou-Metz is a must-visit destination. Take with you a reusable water bottle on your day trips from Paris so that you dont have to buy single use plastic bottles on the way. After exploring the Old Town, head to the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, one of the largest museums in France. Here you can experience the old splendor of Wallonia. Located just over an hour away by train, this city is known for its stunning Gothic cathedral and beautiful canals. The forest hosts a wide range of wildlife and is a protected natural space. Heres what you can expect from a day trip to Metz. If you love champagne, then the Champagne region is a must-visit day trip from Paris. Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace Region, is also known as the Capital of Europe because it plays host to more than 20 European institutions. If youre looking for a peaceful and picturesque day trip from Paris, Auvers-sur-Oise is an excellent choice. Im sure that Brussels, Antwerp or Lige will be in the top 5. There are many Champagne houses in the region, but some of the most famous include Taittinger, Veuve Clicquot, and Mot & Chandon. Before you head back to Paris, be sure to try some of Lyons famous dishes, such as coq au vin, quenelles, or tarte tatin. For the best photograph of the city, start walking away from the center of town and cross part of the bridge over the Loire, then look back. Answer 1 of 19: Hi, Is it feasible to use Paris as a base from which to travel to other countries (like Belgium and Lux) for a day trip? Once you arrive, head straight to the Reims Cathedral, a stunning Gothic cathedral that dates back to the 13th century. There are a number of train types in Switzerland ready to transport you across the country, and to and from other European countries by day and night. It is only a 1-hour 24 min ride by regional train fromParis Austerlitz. It truly has something for everyone from nature, to culture, and even delicious cheese. Once you arrive at St Pancras International, you can easily jump on the London Underground and explore the citys many attractions. Located just 1.5 hours away by train, Rouen is the capital of the Normandy region and is known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history. Are you ready to check out train trips from Paris? If youre learning anything about the French Revolution during your time in Paris, you need to see the opulent palace for yourself to understand the inequality the people of France were facing leading up to it. Some options include Brussels, Amsterdam, and Luxembourg. Or even better: rent a bike and bike around as the locals do. The historic district, known as the Golden Triangle, is a great place to start. Its worth visiting Liege, Belgium, because of its unique style of churches, buildings, museums, art galleries, and many more, all designed like-heaven. This museum features a collection of photographs and artifacts from around the world, as well as beautiful gardens that are perfect for a stroll. Head to a local brasserie and try some of the citys specialties, such as stoofvlees (beef stew), waterzooi (a creamy chicken or fish soup), or Belgian fries with mayonnaise. You can buy your tickets at the train station on ticket machines with cash or card, in the ticket office, or online. A guide to train travel from Berlin to other European cities, including Berlin to Amsterdam, Berlin to Paris, Berlin to Brussels, Berlin to Copenhagen, Berlin to Prague, Berlin to Vienna, Berlin to Budapest, Berlin to Warsaw, Berlin to Krakow, Berlin to Switzerland & Italy. A day trip to Colmar is also a good opportunity to taste theregional cuisineand do some wine tastings and perhaps buy some bottles of your favorite wines. Inside the castle, youll find a museum that showcases the history of the castle and its restoration. If youre in the mood for something a bit more exotic, try Les Ptes Vivantes, a Chinese restaurant that specializes in hand-pulled noodles. Stunt Show Spectacular and the Disney Junior Live on Stage! We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. Click here to book your train tickets to Blois. If youre looking for a day trip from Paris thats filled with history, culture, and delicious food, then Dijon is the perfect destination for you. The Machines of Nantes is also on our list of best things to do in France. Once you arrive in Chartres, you can take a leisurely stroll through the towns picturesque streets, which are lined with half-timbered houses and quaint cafes. All Rights Reserved. Once you arrive in Brussels, head to the Grand Place, the citys central square. It includes touring historical places, like the Musee Des Beaux-Arts de Liege, Archeoforum of Liege, St Paul Cathedral, Church of St Bartholomew, Palace of the Prince-Bishops, Grand Curtius, and so on. This beautiful French chteau has four wings built in four different architectural periods: Gothic, Flamboyant Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical. We hope this guide to the best day trips from Paris by train has inspired you to explore the beautiful surroundings of the city. Trust me, you just dont want to waste your time on that. Edmond Fallot is especially fun, as they have a mustard vending machine. You have to validate your ticket before you board your train. If you have a spare day in Paris, add a side trip to your Paris visit. Luxembourg City is also known for its museums, including the National Museum of History and Art, the Museum of Modern Art, and the Museum of the Fortress. You can learn about the production process, see antique absinthe bottles, and even taste some absinthe if youre feeling adventurous. Dont miss the Palace of the Dukes in the heart of Dijon, it is very impressive! Gare de Lyon is the third busiest train station in the country and serves trains towards the southeast and east. Paris to Amsterdam is a quick and easy journey. Looking for the best day trips from Paris by train? Before heading back to the train station at the end of the day, stop by at the Jardin de lArquebuse, a nearby botanical garden with a free museum of natural history. If youre interested in art, dont miss the Daubigny Museum. One of the main attractions in Amboise is the Chteau dAmboise, a castle that dates back to the 15th century. (C) Copyright 2019 - 2023 France Bucket List. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is home to a variety of delicious foods and drinks that you wont want to miss. The restaurant serves classic French cuisine with a modern twist and is known for its impeccable service. Once you arrive, head to the historic city center, which is filled with picturesque streets lined with colorful buildings and quaint cafes. There are also a whole lot of amazing day trips from Paris by train to other countries you can take. Before you leave, be sure to visit the castles gift shop, where you can purchase souvenirs and local products. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you. The pretty city of Reims is just a short 46-minute train journey from Paris Gare de lEst to the north-east of Paris. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is surrounded by stunning architecture, including the Gothic-style Town Hall. France's state-owned SNCF has become a multinational . Europe - What is the best train route from Paris to other countries? The two main highlights of the Cathedral are the fine sculptures on both the interior and exterior and the colorful stained glass windows. You can even take a chocolate-making workshop to learn how to make your own delicious treats. Lyon is also considered Frances capital of gastronomy, so it is an excellent place for enjoying good food and wine. One of your first stops will be the train station where youll arrive. Located just outside of Paris, this town is easily accessible by train. Day 2, travel from Paris to Toulouse by train and Toulouse to Andorra by bus . Click here to book your train tickets to Strasbourg. One of the best day trips from Paris by train is to Brussels. 15 Best Beach Towns in Turkey for the Ultimate Getaway, Things to Do in York for Couples for a Romantic Getaway, No Hurry To Get Home 2018-2023 | Trellis Framework by Mediavine, Day Trips to Paris by Train to Other Countries. This contemporary art museum, located in a striking building designed by Japanese architect Shigeru Ban, features a rotating collection of exhibitions from some of the worlds most innovative artists. You should purchase a skip-the-line ticket if youre arriving after the park opens. It is also one of the biggest towns so there are plenty of things to do in Colmar to keep you busy for a while. With its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, the Champagne region is just a short train ride from the city. You can even take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective. Should you wish to stop off in Belgium en route, there is a train with a stop in Antwerp as well. Trains to Chantilly Gouvieux train station leave hourly from Paris Gare du Nord for a train ride of 25 minutes. Once you arrive in Rouen, head straight to the citys most iconic landmark the Cathdrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. In countries such as China where access to Twitter & Facebook is restricted, a VPN . If youre looking to travel further afield, there are plenty of high-speed trains that make it possible to do day trips from Paris by train to other countries. It gets you to all of western and southwest of the country and as far as northern Spain. This botanical garden, located in the heart of the city, features a wide variety of plants and flowers, as well as a small zoo and a playground for kids. Old gates, defense towers and the castle of Namur. Its city center, developed on the River Ill banks, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. How is that for being Paris? Take a moment to admire the architecture and soak up the peaceful atmosphere inside. Travel across Europe and discover 33 countries by train with Eurail. One of the best day trips from Paris is theDutch city of Rotterdam. Its known for its beautiful architecture, including the Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, which dates back to the 12th century. If there is one unique thing to Lille you must try then it has to be the glorious sweet treat known as a Merveilleux. The room where he slept has been preserved and can be visited. Click here to book your train tickets to Bordeaux. It is only a 1-hour ride by TGV train fromParis Nord. The city is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of French and German influences. If youre visiting in the summer, be sure to catch one of the many outdoor concerts and performances that take place in the gardens. The chteaus opulent interior is sure to impress, with intricate tapestries, ornate furniture, and stunning frescoes. Wander through the narrow streets and along the harbor to soak up the towns unique atmosphere. For an even more memorable experience, stay at one of the hotels onsite! An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Bruges is a stunningly beautiful place and small enough to make it the perfect spot for a day trip. Located just 25 miles north of Paris, this charming town is easily accessible by train and offers plenty of activities to keep you entertained for the day. Youll see swords, shields, and helmets that were used by knights in battle. After visiting the cathedral, take a stroll along the picturesque canals of the city. One of the highlights of the Chteau de Pierrefonds is its collection of medieval weapons and armor. Petite France is full of beautiful half-timbered buildings that line canals branching from the Rhine River. You can also explore the castles many rooms, including the Great Hall, the Chapel, and the Kings Chamber. If youre interested in architecture, be sure to visit the Bayeux Cathedral and the Chteau de Caen. Lyon, the capital of the region of Auvergne-Rhne-Alpes, is one of the best day trips from Paris by train, especially for a cultural visit. In the middle ages, Lille was a rich fair town part of theCounty of Flanders. Paris has several large train stations, Gare du Nord being the main train station and Europes busiest. However, if you dont have such passes, you can buy a one-way or return ticket at one of the ticket booths at the station. While there you can also visit the city museum and the Brussels Town Hall. With its stunning coastline, charming towns, and famous landmarks, theres something for everyone in this region. The charming city is flourishing with flowerbeds and green spaces, especially along the river and there are plenty of things to do in Metz. Before you head back to Paris, take some time to stroll along the Scheldt river and enjoy the views of the city and its port. You can take a tour of the building and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the top. The Museum Plantin-Moretus is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for book lovers, as it houses the oldest printing press in the world. If youre short on time, you might want to consider taking a guided tour of the city to make sure you hit all the highlights. Upon arrival, youll be greeted by colorful half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and canals running through the town. Take a walk around the castles exterior to appreciate its architecture and the beautiful views of the surrounding forest. Gare de Montparnasse is said to be the worlds second-ugliest building. This charming village is located just 75 km west of Paris and is easily accessible by train. Before you buy your tickets. To get to the Loire Valley from Paris, you can take a train from Gare Montparnasse. If youre a fan of museums, you can visit the nearby Muse des beaux-arts for free; be sure to at least walk around the courtyard, as the museums white stone architecture is beautiful the building actually used to be a palace for the dukes of Burgundy! Should you decide to visit another chateau, then Chambord will give you greatness and space, while Cheverny will entertain you (a museum in honour of Tintin plus a kennel with 150 hunting dogs) and delight you with its perfect decor. After exploring the cathedral, head to one of the many champagne houses in Reims. Click here to book your train tickets to Nantes. This charming village is located just 30 kilometers north of Paris and is famous for its connections to Vincent van Gogh. Youll feel like youve stepped back in time as you wander through the narrow streets lined with colorful houses and gardens. If youre planning for day trips from Paris by train, make sure to book a ticket for Liege, Belgium. 272 replies; And if you have time, dont miss the chance to visit the Antwerp Zoo, one of the oldest and most beautiful zoos in Europe. Once you arrive in Bordeaux, head to the city center to explore. The train ride takes about 3.5 hours, and youll arrive at Amsterdam Centraal station, right in the heart of the city. Also going from Gare de Lyon, Paris to Barcelona is a direct service, taking 6 hrs 30 mins. You can also explore the village and see the places that inspired some of Van Goghs most famous paintings, such as the Church of Auvers and the wheat fields. In case you forget, look for the conductor before he or she finds you, to make them validate it for you. Either way, youll return feeling youve been on a real journey, not only in space but in time. Only two hours away by TGV from Paris is the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, one of those small countries that only European history seems to throw up. A guide to train travel from Paris to other European cities, including Paris to Amsterdam, Paris to Prague, Paris to Barcelona, Paris to Brussels & Luxembourg, Paris to Vienna & Berlin, Paris to Budapest, Paris to Copenhagen, Stockholm & Oslo, Paris to Warsaw & Moscow. Dont miss the Grand Place,a beautiful, large central square, and Lilles beating heart. If youre interested in art, be sure to visit the Muse des Annes 30. When it comes to food, Amiens is known for its macarons and ficelle picarde, which is a savory crepe filled with ham, mushrooms, and cream. There are many amazing things you can see and experience on a day trip to Brussels, Belgiums incredible capital. In the afternoon, explore some of Antwerps museums and galleries. This medieval fortress offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery. . Because of its numerous churches, abbeys, and other religious buildings, Rouen is nicknamed the city of a hundred bell towers.. There are two parks right next to each other, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. This gothic masterpiece is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its stunning stained glass windows and intricate sculptures. From there, you can stroll at a leisurely pace through the old town, over old marketplaces, past splendid merchants houses and for refreshment in one of the many restaurants and bars. It is only a 2-hour ride by TGV train fromParis Montparnasse. The city as seen from the water is stunning, and if you can be there at sunset, even better. Sitting on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is a fantastic day trip from Paris by train. Famed for its stained-glass windows and statues, including the Smiling Angel, the 13thCentury Cathedral saw the crowning of 33 French kings. Remember to check if your ticket is pre-validated of not. No trip to Reims is complete without a visit to one of the champagne houses. The train ride from Paris Gare de lEst to Colmar takes less than 3 hours, and is one of the most beautiful places to visit near Paris by train. Chteau de Chantillyis one of thebest castles near Paristo visit, a fairy-tale castle located in the town of the same name. You can explore the castles many rooms and learn about its fascinating history. Of course, youll indulge in the best Belgian beer too! Montreuil is a charming town with a rich history. The park is located just outside the city and is easily accessible by train. To start your day trip, take the train from Paris to Reims, the capital of the Champagne region. If youre looking for a day trip from Paris that offers a glimpse into Frances rich history and stunning architecture, Fontainebleau is an excellent choice. You can also take a tour of one of the nearby vineyards to learn more about the wine-making process and sample some of the local wines. The best deal on this trip was Paris to Milan . The main hall is a sight as well. The cathedrals of St. Michael and St. Gudula, with the stunning gothic architecture, are so worth a visit too. From the train station, its a pleasant 10-minute walk through the forest to reach Chteau de Chantilly. As a real life palace, it is cool to visit. The good thing is that Brussels is a very compact town and the main sights can be visited on foot. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in the city where you can try these local specialties. . And if youre a fan of sweets, dont miss the opportunity to try some of Rouens famous macarons. Visit the Maille boutique, which has been making mustard since 1747, and sample some of their delicious flavors. Avignon is a charming city located in the south of France, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Taking aFrench road tripis wonderful, but its not always practical to rent a car for one day. After the monks, the powerfulDukes of Burgundydominated art and culture across Europe. As soon as you step off the train, youll be transported back in time to the 17th century. If youre looking for a charming and historic town to visit on a day trip from Paris, Rouen is a great option. Dijon, Franceis the capital of Burgundy and the birthplace of Dijon mustard. There are many interesting rides inside the park and its impossible to visit everything in just one day, so if you have more time, you can buy a multi-day pass as well. If youre looking for something a bit more modern, head to the Tate Modern art gallery, which showcases contemporary works from around the world. In this post, we will share the best weekend getaways from Paris within France, and to other countries.Find the best way to reach the destination with sightseeing and accommodation tips for each! A day trip to Bruges is perfectly do-able as it is only about 2,5 hours from Paris. We trust all products and brands promoted here and would never recommend anything that isnt of value. The journey takes about an hour and a half, but its well worth it. Make sure you plan for a visit of the gardens, as they are really gorgeous. If youre able to do a longer trip to Amsterdam, youll have plenty more time to fully explore the city as well as take a few extra weekend trips from Amsterdam! Whether youre interested in history, architecture, or just want to explore some charming towns, youre sure to have a great time. Though, if you want to avoid paying a hefty amount, you need to book tickets beforehand, which generally costs almost $98 (83). . If youre looking for a more laid-back way to spend your day in Metz, head to the Jardin Botanique de Metz. Mouse, called "Danger Mouse on the Orient Express" (a parody of Murder on the Orient Express), Danger Mouse and Penfold travel on the train on their way back to London from Venice . Nevertheless, its a useful building. In addition, Chteau de Chantilly is surrounded by magnificent French-style gardens designed byAndr Le Notre, the same landscape designer who worked on the Gardens of Versailles. For a small city, Luxembourg City has a lot of art galleries and museums. Train travel is on the rise in Europe as many European Union countries increase . Paris is a city that needs no introduction, but sometimes you need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. The amazing city of Metz, mainly recognized for the astounding cathedral, is one of the best train trips from Paris and the perfect day trip. There is a lot to discover in the extensive fortress area. It is only a 1-hour 38 min ride by TGV train fromParis Gare de Lyon. Strasbourg is also known for its beer, so be sure to sample a pint of the local brew. Henri dOrlans was the greatest art collector of his time and used the chteau to display all his artworks and show them to his guests. Built in the 12th and 13th centuries, the Cathedral is remarkably well preserved, considering how old it is. Its only about 195 miles (314 km) direct from Gare du Nord in central Paris to Brussels-South Station in 1:25 hours. You can easily add some museums to your London itinerary as so many of them are free to enter and we recommend the Natural History Museum for a great exploration on a quick trip. Vincennes also has a lovely park where you can relax and enjoy the scenery. One day should be enough to get to know this must-visit in the Netherlands, but youll for sure want to come back. Check out these day trips from Paris to other countries around Europe all within a 3-hour train ride. Paris, Gare de Lyon to Madrid by train takes just over 9 hrs 30 mins on a high-speed train, with one change in Barcelona and a choice of two services a day - or three in mid-summer. Located just over an hour away by train, this charming city is the capital of the Burgundy region and is known for its mustard, wine, and stunning architecture. Additionally, various events and festivals operate throughout the year in Liege. During the holiday season, the whole square turns into the most charming Christmas market too! You can find these and other culinary delights at local markets and restaurants throughout the region. Visit Metz Art & History Museum or marvel at the medieval architecture at Place Saint-Louis, in the old town. Known for its wine, Bordeaux is a beautiful city with plenty to see and do. This is home to the 12th century Belfry that you can also go inside and the Provincial Court. If youre looking for a day trip from Paris thats not too far away, Boulogne-Billancourt is a great option. The Place du Vieux March with the old stock exchange and the belfry, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is particularly worth seeing. Take a picture of the famous Manneken Pis Statue, it sounds weird, but its a classic tourist attraction. Looking for the best weekend trips from Paris by train or by car? even using unsecured WiFi. Dijon is the capital of the historical region of Burgundy, home to the famous Dukes of Burgundy. Located just a few hours away by train, this Belgian city has a lot to offer. If youre looking for a day trip from Paris that offers a change of pace, Brussels is a great option. A guide to train travel from Barcelona to other European cities, including Barcelona to Paris, Barcelona to Lisbon, Barcelona to Amsterdam, Barcelona to Geneva, Zurich & Switzerland, Barcelona to Brussels Youll find fresh cheese made on-site, as well as all kind of dairy products. Close to the square you also find the church of Saint-Maximum which is well worth a visit. Ive driven into Paris before and its such a waste of time. By far the biggest city, it was once a strategically important fortress and one of the attractions of the city is to walk around the still impressive city fortifications, walls and casements. Once you arrive in Chantilly, head straight to the Chteau de Chantilly, a stunning 16th-century castle that houses a museum and an impressive art collection. There are so many hikes you can do for all levels in the forest and whether you prefer a light stroll or long-distance running, you are sure to find a circuit you enjoy. And if youre looking to do a bit of shopping, Oxford Street and Covent Garden are just a few of the many places to browse for souvenirs. There are many to choose from including Veuve Clicquot-Ponsardin, Taittinger, Pommery and Mumm. This small bronze sculpture of a urinating boy is a symbol of the city and is always dressed in different outfits throughout the year. Nantes,is the capital of the region Pays de la Loire. The list of fun things to do in Lyon includes: PARIS LYON BY TRAIN: Lyon is well connected with Paris, with many departures per day. If you are looking for easy train trips from Paris, Dijon is a good option. Its direct and fast train connection with the French capital (only 1 hour by TGV) makes Lille an attractive destination for aday trip from Paris by train. The Nazis stole a lot the countrys best historical works but there are some worthwhile contemporary galleries to visit if you enjoy art. Please read disclaimer for more info. To get to Versailles by train, you will need to buy a ticket to the Versailles-Chateua Rive Gauche station. For a unique experience, take a boat tour of the canals and see the city from a different perspective. During the week, train trips from Paris to Nantes are very common for business, so be sure to book your tickets in advance. You should at least spend 2 to 4 days in Paris to get the most out of the city, but if you have more time after that, make sure you take at least one of these train trips from Paris. For a relaxing afternoon, head to the Albert Kahn Museum and Gardens. The Gothic Saint-Etienne Cathedral is one of the tallest in Europe, with its 42 meters and can be seen all the way from the highway when passing the city. show. The entrance ticket to the Great Stables usually comes with an equestrian show. Colmar is also known for its wine, so be sure to try some of the local varieties while youre there. It was used for transporting Jews to the camps during World War 2. . While in Strasbourg, you should be sure to try some of the traditional foods. This impressive museum houses a vast collection of art, including works by Rubens, Van Gogh, and Monet. These museums offer a glimpse into the citys rich cultural heritage and are definitely worth a visit. If youre a chocolate lover, youll definitely want to visit some of Bruges many chocolate shops.