The train network is very good in France. You can travel from the heart of Paris to the heart of another town in a different region in just a few hours. While some destinations may appear far on the map, they are only a couple of hours away from Paris by high-speed train (up to 320 km/h). The following places offer the best day trips from Paris by train to experience a different side of France during your trip. It can also be a good opportunity to find better weather if it happens to be raining in Paris.
Why taking a day trip by train from Paris to these destinations is a great idea
While Paris is undoubtedly a fascinating city, there is so much more to explore beyond its borders. And Paris isn’t always as perfect as the movies and travel guides make you think. Not only will you appreciate a change of pace from the French capital, but you’ll also discover charming towns with unique histories, cultures, and local cuisines, which are perfect for a relaxing break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
While all of these destinations would make excellent overnight trips, it can be nice to explore them as a day trip from Paris. This way, you can avoid the hassle of packing, checking in and checking out. For this (non-exhaustive) list, I have only included destinations that are easily reachable by train with no need for a bus transfer from the train station. You’ll be surprised by how easy and cheap – and quick with the high-speed train! – it can be to explore other French destinations by train from Paris.
At the end of the article, you will find a useful map with colour coding to indicate travel time (green = one hour or less, blue = one to one and a half hours, yellow = one and a half to two hours, and maroon = more than two hours).
Tips for booking train tickets for your day trip
Booking your train tickets in advance is highly recommended, though not always necessary. You can plan your trip and purchase your tickets through the SNCF website (Oui.SNCF) or Transilien website. I find this to be the easiest way to book tickets and you can often find the best deals when you book in advance.
If you prefer to purchase tickets at the station in Paris, it is still possible, but you’ll need to know where to go. Finding the right place can be tricky, as different train types have their own designated areas. For example, if you’re travelling on the TGV (high-speed train) or TER (regional trains), you’ll have to go to the Grandes Lignes area, which is often located on the top level of the station. RER (suburban train) is usually located at the bottom.
Destinations one hour away from Paris by train
Versailles | 30 min from Paris by train
Station in Paris: multiple (St-Michel Notre-Dame, Invalides, Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel, and more) | Line: RER C (Transilien network)
The Palace of Versailles needs no introduction. As the former residence of French royalty, it is one of the most famous world heritage monuments. This opulent complex attracts tourists and locals alike who come to admire its architectural grandeur and imagine life during the monarchy, as well as to learn about the political history of the place.
From Versailles Château-Rive Gauche station, it takes just 10 minutes to walk to the main entrance of the Palace of Versailles.
Reims | 45 min from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Champagne
Reims is famously known as the Capital of Champagne and is also an important city in French history. From Reims station (be careful, not Reims Maison Blanche station), you can take a 40-minute walk to the Pommery Domain, which is one of the most reputed Champagne producers. Along the way, you can make short detours to visit the Notre Dame Cathedral* (which is less than 15 minutes from the station) and the beautiful Place Drouet d’Erlon.
Lille | 1hr from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare du Nord | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Flandres (north of France)
Lille is the fourth-largest urban area in France, after Paris, Lyon, and Marseille. Although the weather in the north of France can be worse than in Paris, Lille is a lovely city to visit. Some say you have to visit the capital of Flanders at least once in your life, even if it wouldn’t be my first choice for a day trip from Paris. Lille is an excellent destination to discover Flemish architecture from the 17th century, which is quite different from the other destinations listed in this article. The beautiful town hall (the tower in the photo above) is just a 10-minute walk from Lille-Flandres station.
Chartres | 1hr from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Centre
Chartres is well-known for its stunning cathedral, which was built in 1222. The architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed monument has been remarkably preserved, with 90% of the original structure still intact. It is considered France’s best-preserved Gothic cathedral. Additionally, Chartres town center is worth exploring with its charming streets and historic buildings. It’s a perfect day trip by train from Paris as the cathedral is only a short walk from the train station, taking approximately 10 minutes.
Destinations just over one hour away from Paris by train
Orleans | 1hr10 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare d’Austerlitz | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Centre
You’ll find plenty of references to Joan of Arc in Orleans, as it is her birthplace. You can explore her house and see two statues of her in the town. The stunning Sainte-Croix cathedral is one of the five largest Gothic cathedrals in France and features beautiful stained-glass windows depicting Joan of Arc’s story. In addition, the charming town center is worth a stroll.
From the Orleans station, it’s only a 10-minute walk to either the cathedral or Joan of Arc’s house, making it a convenient destination for a day trip by train from Paris.
Tours | 1hr15 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse (or Austerlitz but it takes more time) | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Loire Valley
Tours is a charming medieval town with stunning architecture. The list of monuments to see in Tours within walking distance from the station is long, including Saint-Gatien cathedral and La Psalette cloister, Saint-Martin basilica, the medieval castle, the town hall, Charlemagne Tower, and the Beaux-Arts museum.
If you’re interested in visiting Loire Valley castles, you can join a tour* from Tours but most of them will be day tours. Villandry Castle is not too far from Tours, so you should be able to find a half-day tour if you prefer. However, Amboise and Blois, further down on this list, may be better destinations to visit a Loire Valley castle on a day trip by train from Paris. Alternatively, you can consider a tour from Paris* rather than a train trip.
Poitiers | 1hr15 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Vienne
Poitiers is a historic town located on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. It boasts an impressive collection of medieval religious monuments, including two 11th-century churches, Notre-Dame la Grande and Saint-Hilaire le Grand, which feature beautiful sculptures and carvings. Additionally, visitors can explore the fascinating baptistery Saint-Jean, dating back to the 5th century, and the beautiful Saint-Pierre cathedral, home to some of France’s oldest stained glass windows.
From the train station, visitors can walk to the points of interest in Poitiers in approximately 20-25 minutes.
Epernay | 1hr20 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Champagne
Epernay is the second town also known as the Capital of Champagne, like Reims mentioned earlier on this list. Located in the heart of the Champagne region, it is home to the famous Avenue de Champagne, which boasts 110 kilometres of wine cellars holding millions of bottles of champagne. Visitors can tour some of the cellars and sample the renowned bubbly.
From the station, you can take a 40-minute circuit walk to discover the most interesting places in town, including the iconic Avenue de Champagne.
Rouen | 1hr20 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Saint Lazare | Line: TER or Nomad (regional train)
Region: Normandy
If you are interested in religious buildings, Rouen is an unmissable destination. Within walking distance, you’ll find the splendid cathedral, which is the tallest in France and the fourth tallest in the world, as well as stunning abbeys and churches. The pedestrian city centre is a very short walk away from the beautiful train station and is perfect for a day of exploration, with plenty of opportunities for short detours in charming streets. Rouen is also the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake by the British.
Provins | 1hr20 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: P (Transilien network)
Region: Seine-et-Marne
Provins is on the UNESCO World Heritage list as “the only surviving example of a merchant city from the Champagne fairs of the 12th and 13th centuries”. This 8-kilometre circuit starting at Provins train station will take you to the best sites in the medieval city, including the impressive ramparts, the Caesar Tower, the underground galleries and the Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church.
Amiens | 1hr20 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare du Nord | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Somme
The cathedral of Amiens, which covers an impressive 200,000 cubic meters, is not only France’s biggest medieval cathedral but it’s also bigger than Notre Dame de Paris! After admiring its beauty, visitors can wander around the charming streets nearby with their old houses and canals, earning Amiens the nickname “small Venice of the North”, and explore other monuments like Perret Tower and the belfry.
It only takes 10 minutes to walk from Amiens train station to the cathedral.
Metz | 1hr25 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Lorraine
Metz Cathedral is not only one of the most glazed Christian buildings with 6500 m² of stained-glass windows but also a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. History lovers will find Metz a fascinating destination with over 3,000 years of history and numerous well-preserved monuments showcasing a range of architectural styles, from the Gallo-Roman era to more recent times when Metz shifted between German and French rule.
You will arrive at the magnificent Metz station, voted the most beautiful station in France, for a perfect start to your visit.
Brussels | 1.5hr from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare du Nord | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Belgium (north)
The Belgian capital, Brussels, is easily accessible from Paris in just 1.5 hours by train. A short 20-minute walk from the station will take you to the heart of the city where you can admire the stunning Grand-Place and explore the charming streets of the town centre. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous Manneken-Pis and visit the impressive Saints-Michel-et-Gudule Cathedral, which are both located within walking distance from the Grand-Place.
Nancy | 1.5hrs from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Meurthe-et-Moselle
Nancy is a charming city that can easily be visited as a day trip. The highlight of the town is the stunning 18th-century Place Stanislas, known as the world’s most beautiful square. From there, you can walk to the nearby Arc Héré and explore the old town, with its late baroque and art nouveau architecture. Other must-see sights include the Saint-Epvre Basilica, the Porte de la Craffe, and the Nancy Museum of Fine Arts.
Place Stanislas is a 20-minute walk from the train station that will take you through the charming pedestrian streets of Nancy’s historic centre.
Blois | 1.5hrs from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Paris Austerlitz | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Loire Valley
A day trip to Blois from Paris is a wonderful opportunity to explore the rich history of the Loire Valley. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk from the train station to the Chateau de Blois*, a royal palace with a fascinating mix of architectural styles that served as the favourite residence of no less than seven French kings and ten French queens across four different time periods.
However, the town of Blois is not just about the castle. Visitors can wander through the historic streets and admire the charming old houses, explore two magnificent cathedrals, or take a relaxing boat ride on the nearby river.
Dijon | 1hr35 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de Lyon | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Burgundy
Dijon, in the heart of Burgundy, is more than just a place famous for its mustard. It’s a charming town that offers a lot to visitors, making it one of the best day trips from Paris by train.
Start early to make the most of your time in the town centre, following the Owl trail “Parcours de la Chouette” to discover architectural gems like the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, climb the Philippe le Bon Tower for a panoramic view, and visit the International Cité of Gastronomy and Wine to learn more about the region’s renowned cuisine and wines. You can also join a half-day tour of local vineyards* in picturesque villages to experience the best of Burgundy’s wine culture.
If you’re torn between visiting Dijon or Lyon, I prefer Dijon for a day trip from Paris as it’s smaller and easier to get around in a short time.
Destinations about two hours away from Paris by train
Auxerre | 1hr45 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Paris Bercy | TER (regional train)
Region: Burgundy
Auxerre makes is a perfect day trip from Paris by train. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk from the train station to Paul Bert bridge, where you’ll get one of the best views of the city. From there, follow the Cadet Roussel pedestrian circuit to discover the town’s rich heritage. Don’t miss the impressive Gothic cathedral of Saint-Etienne, the picturesque old town with its timber-framed houses, and the Abbaye Saint-Germain, which houses a museum of Gallo-Roman art. And of course, don’t forget to taste the delicious local wine, which has been produced in the region for centuries.
Strasbourg | 1hr45 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Alsace
Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, is a unique blend of French and German cultures and one of the four capitals of the European Union. The magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the fourth tallest in the world. Beyond the cathedral, the “Petite France” is a charming area with its picturesque half-timbered Alsatian houses and canals. Don’t forget to try the local Alsatian cuisine, including the famous choucroute and tarte flambée, and join a tour* to explore the local vineyards.
Lyon | 1hr50 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de Lyon | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Rhône (south-east of France)
Lyon is a charming city and France’s second-largest, renowned for its incredible culinary scene. Boasting the title of the world’s gastronomy capital, Lyon is home to numerous delightful restaurants. However, Lyon isn’t just about food. The city is surrounded by some of the most beautiful wine regions in France and is filled with stunning historical buildings.
You can easily get to the city centre by taking the high-speed train from Paris. From the station, it’s a short walk to the main attractions, including the old town with its fantastic dining options and the breathtaking Fourviere Basilica.
Amboise | 1hr50 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Paris Austerlitz | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Loire Valley
Amboise is a wonderful town to explore in the Loire Valley region. You’ll find everything the area is famous for, including a stunning Renaissance royal castle* overlooking the river, and the chance to taste wine in a 16th-century troglodyte cave dug into the limestone*. If you’re a fan of Leonardo Da Vinci, you won’t want to miss Amboise – the artist retired here, and you can visit his last home, Clos Lucé*, as well as his tomb in the chapel of Amboise Castle.
Hiring an e-bike* is a great idea to cover more ground in Amboise and its nearby vineyards.
Bourges | 2hrs from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare d’Austerlitz | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Centre
Bourges boasts one of the most impressive cathedrals in France, which is nearly as large as Notre Dame de Paris. You can climb the cathedral’s highest tower (65m) for a 360-degree view. The Jacques-Coeur Palace is another must-see attraction in Bourges. If you’re looking for a green break, Bourges has wetlands located in the heart of the town centre.
From the train station, it’s only a 20-minute walk to the cathedral.
Nantes | 2hrs05 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Loire Atlantique (west of France)
Nantes is the last of the 10 biggest French cities (by urban areas) that are less than three hours by train from the Paris. Although administratively it is no longer in Brittany, the city’s culture and history are closely tied to the region. A visit to Nantes offers a great opportunity to discover more about Brittany.
Only a 10-minute walk from the train station, you’ll reach the imposing castle, which served as the principal residence of the Dukes of Brittany between the 13th and 16th centuries before becoming one of the residences of the French Monarchy. It is also lovely to explore the pedestrian town centre of Nantes, where you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere.
Deauville | 2hrs10 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Saint Lazare | Line: TER (regional train)
Region: Normandy (north of France)
Deauville-Trouville station is conveniently located just a 20-minute walk away from Deauville Beach, making it an ideal destination for a day trip from Paris by train. Known for its popularity with Parisians, the charming seaside resort offers much more than just sun, sand, and sea. Deauville is internationally recognised for hosting the Deauville American Film Festival, which takes place every year. The boardwalk along the beach is one of the most famous attractions in Deauville, offering stunning views of the coast. The town centre, with its half-timbered houses adds to the charm of the lovely coastal town.
Bordeaux | 2hrs15 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Aquitaine (south west of France)
Bordeaux is a stunning city located on the Atlantic Coast and designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The architecture is breathtaking, and the surrounding wine regions are world-renowned for producing delicious local wines. It takes only 25 minutes to walk from the station to the impressive Porte Cailhau, a 15th-century monument that offers a glimpse into Bordeaux’s rich history. Just a short stroll from there is the magnificent Place de la Bourse, where you can admire the famous Water Mirror.
Destinations further away but still accessible as a day trip from Paris by train
Vannes | 2.5hrs from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: South of Brittany (west of France)
Vannes is a charming town in Brittany that is easily accessible by train from Paris. From Vannes station, it only takes 15 minutes to reach the ramparts, and the port is just a short walk away. The old town is wonderful to explore on foot, with its picturesque half-timbered houses and beautiful gardens. While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour around the stunning islands of the Gulf of Morbihan, one of the best things to do in Brittany. It’s a unique experience that provides a complete change of scenery from the bustling city of Paris.
Saint Malo | 2.5hrs from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare Montparnasse | Line: TGV (high-speed train) + TER (regional train) – direct trains from Paris are rare.
Region: North of Brittany (west of France)
Saint Malo is a stunning medieval walled city located on the English Channel and one of the most beautiful towns in Brittany. While it’s often visited in combination with the Mont Saint Michel, keep in mind that you won’t be able to reach the latter by train. However, after a short 30-minute walk from the train station, you’ll be on the beach, ready to explore the breathtaking ramparts of Saint Malo. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll around the charming old town and its narrow streets filled with historic buildings and local shops.
Beaune | 2.5hrs from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de Lyon | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Burgundy
Just outside Dijon lies the charming small town of Beaune, situated in the heart of Burgundy’s famous Route des Grands Crus (Great Vintage Road). The Hospices de Beaune, a hospital foundation from the Middle Ages, is a unique and famous attraction that you don’t want to miss. In Beaune, you can also indulge in wine-tasting opportunities, although the vineyards are located just outside the town, and you will need to book a tour. Among the famous wineries nearby, Château de Pommard* is worth a visit.
If you’re short on time, taking a quicker train to Dijon and joining a tour to Beaune* might be the way to go.
Colmar | 2hrs20 from Paris by train
Station in Paris: Gare de l’Est | Line: TGV (high-speed train)
Region: Alsace
Colmar is a picturesque town with charming colourful half-timbered houses lining the riverbank. You will love wandering around the town, and you can take a relaxing boat tour on the canal to see the town from a different perspective. As Amiens – which is also on this list of the best day trips from Paris by train – is nicknamed “the small Venice of the North”, Colmar is referred to as “the small Venice of the East.”
What do you think are the best day trips from Paris by train? Share your experience in the comments below!
Map of these destinations for a day trip from Paris by train
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Wow. I thought we had explored France extensively but you’ve given us many new ideas. Thank you