
5 best day-trips from Paris
Giverny: Monet's Enchanting Garden World
Versailles: the Opulence of French Royalty
Loire Valley: Magnificent Châteaux and Vineyards
Rouen: Historic Charm and Culture in Normandy
Disneyland Paris: a Magical Family Escape
Paris, France: Eternal Love and Summer Adventures Await
Ah, Paris... City of Lights, Eiffel Tower, croissants, and unparalleled charm. I am a self-confessed lover of this magical metropolis! I have lived there twice and am consistently amazed by its timeless beauty
Exploring its streets, from the bohemian St. Germain to the trendy Marais, is a constant delight! Like any vibrant capital city, such as New York,or London, you never know what new spots you'll discover around every corner.
In the fall, the city is blanketed in vibrant colors, and in the spring, the gardens come alive with new life.
Summertime transforms Paris into an irresistible place for adventure and exploration, but its magic extends far beyond its iconic landmarks.. The city's surroundings reveal themselves in all their glory, ready to be explored.
Just a short train or car ride away, captivating castles, serene gardens, and thrilling amusement parks await. Discover the best summer day trips from Paris, offering a perfect blend of culture and fun—promising unforgettable memories.
Join me on this journey as we uncover the wonders that lie just beyond the boundaries of the City of Lights! Let's explore together and make this summer truly memorable!
Quick Guide: Paris in SummerAre you planning a trip to Paris during the warmer months of the year? Then this guide is perfect for you! Here, we will answer the main questions about making the most of the City of Lights in the summer. |
When is summer in Paris?
Summer in Paris lasts from June to August, with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. This is the school holidays and the busiest tourist season in the city.
What to wear in Paris in the summer?
What are the main attractions in Paris in the summer?
What is the nightlife like in Paris in the summer?
What are the best things to do around Paris in the summer?
Giverny: Unveiling the Enchanting World of Monet's Gardens

Monet's Garden in Giverny
A mere 75 kilometers from Paris, Giverny is a sanctuary for art enthusiasts and nature lovers. This village gained fame as the residence of Claude Monet. The pioneer of French Impressionism.
The artist's home and the stunning gardens that sparked his creativity are now a museum. They offer a colorful retreat into the painter's world. A perfect day tour from Paris by train.
The Charm of Giverny's Landscapes
Giverny's landscapes are not just visually appealing; they are historic. The village's natural beauty is preserved with great care. These scenes of peace and tranquility inspired Monet's masterpieces.
Admire the Clos Normand flower garden in front of the house! Visit the water garden with its iconic pond and Japanese bridge. Seasonal flowers bloom in succession, ensuring the gardens feast for the eyes.
Monet's House and Studios
Explore Monet's personal space, where his artistic genius came to life. The house, preserved just as the artist left it, offers a peek into his daily life.
Visit the vibrant dining room and the sunny kitchen! Stop by Monet's studio, where he painted his large water lily series. Monet's Japanese prints adorn the walls, reflecting his love for Eastern art.
The Museum of Impressionism, Giverny
Steps away from Monet's house, this museum delves into the history of Impressionism. Exhibitions change regularly, showcasing works by Monet and his contemporaries.
The museum also delves into the influence of the Impressionist movement on modern art, placing Monet's work in a broader context. The museum's garden is another highlight, complementing the artistic offerings.
Getting There
Getting to Giverny from Paris is easy. The drive from Paris to Giverny takes about 1 hour and 22 minutes, covering a distance of 75.2 km.
Take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Vernon. Then, take a short bus or taxi directly to Giverny. Relax as you drive through the Normandy countryside. The train ride takes about 45 minutes, and the bus takes about 30 minutes.
Another option is to take a Giverny day tour from Paris. Viator and Get Your Guide tours include round-trip transportation, admission to Monet's gardens, and free time to explore the village. Both are super safe and reliable.
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Versailles: Indulge in the Opulence of French Royalty

The Palace of Versailles
Versailles is synonymous with opulence and the extravagant lifestyle of the French monarchy. The Grand Palace of Versailles is situated 20 kilometers southwest of Paris. A symbol of royal absolutism and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the most famous tourist attraction in France.
The Grandeur of the Palace
The Palace of Versailles stands as a symbol of the glory of French architecture during the 17th century. Walk through the Hall of Mirrors, the King's and Queen's State Apartments.
Explore the grand ceremonial rooms where courtiers once gathered. Every room in the palace tells a story! Admire the beautiful paintings and sculptures that evoke the splendor of the Sun King's reign.
The Versailles Gardens and Fountains
The gardens are as impressive as the palace, stretching over 800 hectares. The grounds feature intricate fountains, classical statues, and perfectly landscaped lawns.
During the summer, the famous Musical Fountain Shows take place. The fountains come to life with classical music, offering a magical spectacle.
The Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette's Estate
The Grand and Petit Trianon are smaller palaces that offered the royals a private retreat from court life. Marie Antoinette's Estate is a rustic fantasy village. There, the queen could escape the pressures of royal duties and indulge in the pastoral lifestyle.
Getting There
The drive from Paris to Versailles takes about 46 minutes, covering 27 miles (44.2 km).
Versailles is accessible by the RER C train from several stations in central Paris. Try Saint-Michel Notre-Dame and Champ de Mars-Tour Eiffel. Versailles Château - Rive Gauche station is a short walk from the palace entrance.
Alternatively, take a Viator or GetYourGuide day tour to Versailles from Paris.
Loire Valley: Discover the Enchantment of Châteaux and Vineyards

Château de Chambord in Loire Valley
The Loire Valley, the "Garden of France," is a lush region with history and natural beauty. It is renowned for its fairy-tale châteaux and expansive vineyards.
The valley provides a picturesque backdrop for a summer day tour of Paris.
Majestic Châteaux of the Loire Valley
The Loire Valley has over 300 châteaux, each with its unique history and architectural style. Château de Chambord has a distinctive French Renaissance architecture. It is the largest and most visited.
Château de Chenonceau is another gem. Known as the "Château des Dames" for its association with significant women in French history. It elegantly arches over the River Cher.
Vineyards and Wine Tasting
The Loire Valley is also France's third-largest wine region! It offers a variety of wines, from crisp whites to fruity reds. Visit vineyards and cellars to learn about winemaking and indulge in tastings.
For a completely different wine experience, head south to Bordeaux, where world-famous Cabernet Sauvignon grapes reign supreme.
Summer is an excellent time for wine tours, as the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are in full bloom.
The Loire Valley's Natural Beauty
The Loire Valley's countryside also offers several outdoor activities. Enjoy bike rides along the Loire River and hot air balloon rides for a bird's-eye view of the region. Or relax in the various gardens that adorn the châteaux grounds.
Getting There
The drive from Paris to the Loire Valley takes around 2 hours and 11 minutes, covering a distance of 214 km.
The Loire Valley is accessible by train from Paris. From Gare d'Austerlitz, there are frequent departures to cities such as Tours, Blois, and Orléans. These are the gateways to the region's attractions. The journey takes around two hours, making it an ideal destination for a day trip.
For a more organized experience, several guided tours depart from Paris. These excursions usually include visits to castles, wineries, and other attractions, with transport and a guide included.
Rouen: Delve into the Rich History and Culture of Normandy

Rouen Cathedral
Rouen, the capital of Normandy, is a city steeped in history and culture. Located approximately 135 kilometers northwest of Paris. Medieval streets and well-preserved architecture provide a glimpse into France's past.
Gothic Marvel of Rouen Cathedral
The Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a centerpiece of the city's skyline. The cathedral's intricate façade and soaring spires make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts. Admire the stained glass windows that fill the interior with a colorful kaleidoscope.
Explore Old Rouen

The historic center of Rouen is a labyrinth of cobblestone streets! Explore half-timbered houses and bustling market squares.
Stroll along Rue du Gros-Horloge! Marvel at the iconic astronomical clock that has been keeping time for centuries.
Stop by Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was executed! Immerse yourself in the city's rich tapestry of stories.
Museums and Art Galleries
Rouen is home to several museums and galleries that showcase its artistic heritage. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen! Admire works by artists such as Monet, Delacroix, and Caravaggio.
The city's cultural institutions offer a window into the creative soul of Normandy.
Getting There
The journey from Paris to Rouen by car takes around 1 hour and 56 minutes, covering a distance of 134 km.
Rouen can be reached by train from Paris, with regular services departing from Gare Saint-Lazare. The journey takes 1.5 hours. As a car is not necessary to explore the historic part of the city, I recommend the train in this case.
Disneyland Paris: A Magical Escape for Families

Disneyland Paris
Embark on a magical adventure on a short journey from Paris to Disneyland Paris. Perfect for families with kids, this theme park offers a day of enchantment and fun for all ages.
Disneyland Paris guarantees a memorable experience for the whole family! Expect thrilling rides, captivating shows, and beloved Disney characters roaming the park!

The Enchanting Worlds of Disneyland
Step into a world of fantasy and imagination as you explore Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Enjoy iconic attractions like Sleeping Beauty's Castle and thrilling rides like Space Mountain. Meet your favorite Disney characters.
How to Get There?
The journey from Paris to Disneyland Paris by car takes about 37 minutes and 26.4 miles.
You can also take the RER train from Gare de Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station, which takes about 45 minutes. Tickets can be purchased online or at the station.
If you're looking for a more relaxing option, you can take a bus from the Magical Shuttle company, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Buses depart from central Paris and go directly to Disneyland Paris.
Summer Adventures Beyond the City of Lights
There are so many places near Paris to visit during the summer! And all just a few kilometers from the French capital!
What do you prefer? The grandeur of the Palace of Versailles? The bucolic tranquility of Giverny? Or the thrilling fun of Disneyland Paris?
These day trips are perfect for experiencing the true essence of French culture.
Don't waste any more time! Plan your next visit to Paris! But set aside a day or two to discover these places in the surrounding area. You will leave with incredible memories and a stronger longing to return to the area.
Paris and its surroundings have much more to offer than we can imagine. Venture out and discover all its charms!
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