Your Guide to 5 Easy Day Trips from Paris by Train
- Jul 8, 2024
- 22 min read
Updated: Apr 25
Paris, France: Eternal Love and Summer Adventures Await
Ah, Paris! The City of Lights, the Eiffel Tower, croissants, and unparalleled charm. I am a self-confessed lover of this magical metropolis! I have lived there twice, and each time I return, I am continually 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, whether New York, London, or Prague you never know what new spots you'll discover around every corner.
Autumn is my absolute favorite season! There is something mystical about the streets blanketed in vibrant orange leaves, creating a stunning tapestry of color. However, I also enjoy visiting in spring or any other time!
Paris in summer becomes an irresistible invitation to adventure and discovery, and the city's surroundings reveal themselves in all their glory, ready to be explored.
Day trips from Paris are one of the best ways to enjoy the season: historic castles, charming villages, flower gardens, and even theme parks are just a few minutes away by train or car.
Join me on this journey as we uncover the wonders that lie just beyond the boundaries of the City of Lights! Let's explore the best of the surroundings of Paris together with practical tips, how to get there, what to see, and answers to the most common questions.
Explore and the hidden charms beyond the limits of the City of Lights!
Quick FAQ: Planning Your Paris Day TripAre you in Paris in the summer and want to discover incredible places beyond the capital? Here, we will answer the main questions about how to make the most of the surroundings of the City of Lights. |
When does summer start in Paris?
Summer in Paris runs from June 21 to August 21 (2025), with average temperatures between 20°C and 30°C. It's peak tourist season and school holidays, but the long, pleasant days are perfect for exploring!
How to organize the perfect day trip?
1. Choose your destination (up to 2 hours by train from Paris for a day trip)
2. Decide on your means of transport (train, car or guided tour)
3. Buy tickets for transport and attractions in advance, especially in summer.
4. Leave early to make the most of your day
Top 5: best day trips from Paris in summer
Destination | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
Giverny | 75 km | Monet's Gardens |
Versailles | 44 Km | Palace and Gardens |
Loire Valley | 214 km | Castles and vineyards |
Rouen | 134 Km | Cathedral and Medieval Center |
Disneyland | 43 km | Family theme park |
What is the best form of transport for day trips?
Train: Often the fastest and most convenient for single destinations like Versailles, Giverny (via Vernon), Rouen, and Disneyland.
Car Rental: Best for flexibility, especially if visiting multiple sites in one day, like exploring several Loire Valley castles.
Guided Tour: Excellent hassle-free option. Transport, tickets (often skip-the-line), and itinerary are handled for you. Great for complex trips like the Loire Valley or if you prefer not to navigate yourself.
Do I need to buy a ticket in advance?
Yes, absolutely! Especially for high-demand places like the Palace of Versailles and Disneyland Paris.. This saves significant time waiting in lines, particularly during the busy summer season.
How do you get to each destination by train?
Giverny: Gare Saint-Lazare train → Vernon + bus or taxi to Giverny
Versailles: RER C train → Versailles Château - - Rive Gauche station
Loire Valley: Gare d’Austerlitz train → Tours/Blois (Note: Exploring the valley from these cities often requires further transport).
Rouen: Gare Saint-Lazare train → Rouen
Disneyland: RER A train → Marne-la-Vallée Chessy station
What should you wear in Paris in the summer?
Choose light and breathable clothing, such as dresses, skirts, t-shirts, and pants made of linen or cotton. Do not forget accessories like hats, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes.
Extra Tips for Your Summer Day Trip
Wear sunscreen
Bring water and snacks for the trip.
Download offline maps on your phone.
Verify train times (especially the last return train!) and opening hours for attractions.
What is the easiest day trip from Paris by train?
The easiest day trip from Paris by train is Versailles, accessible via the RER C line in about 40 minutes. Giverny and Rouen are also relatively easy train journeys.
Can you do a day trip to the Loire Valley from Paris?
Yes, a day trip to the Loire Valley is possible, but due to the distance and spread of castles, it's best done via a guided tour or by renting a car to visit 1-2 castles efficiently.
Which Loire Valley castles can you visit on a day trip?
Châteaux like Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise, or Cheverny are popular choices for a day trip, often visited as one or two per trip due to time constraints.
How much time do you need to visit Versailles?
Plan for at least 3-4 hours to see the Palace itself, and an additional 2-3 hours to explore the vast Gardens and the Trianon Estate. A full day is recommended to see everything without rushing.
Is a guided tour for day trips from Paris worth it?
Guided tours can be very convenient as they typically include transport, skip-the-line access, and guided information, saving you planning effort and time, especially for destinations further away or those involving multiple sites.
What are the best day trips from Paris for families?
Disneyland Paris is a top choice for families. Versailles can also be enjoyable, particularly the gardens and Marie Antoinette's Estate, but requires a lot of walking.
What are some less crowded day trips from Paris?
While the "Top 5" are popular for a reason, consider these for potentially fewer crowds (especially on weekdays or outside peak July/August):
Fontainebleau: Stunning palace and forest, often less packed than Versailles.
Chartres: Famous for its breathtaking cathedral.
Provins: Unique medieval town experience.
Chantilly: Beautiful château and horse museum/stables.
Day trips from Paris in the summer are unmissable experiences for those who want to explore beyond the capital. Follow our tips and make the most of it!
The list below also works as a handy table of contents. If you want to jump directly to a specific destination, click on it!
Top 5 Summer Day Trips from Paris
A journey to the heart of Monet's Impressionist inspiration, where flowers dance under the Normandy light.
Discover the opulence and history of French royalty through the palace and its stunning gardens.
Loire Valley: Castles and Vineyards
A stroll between fairytale castles and vineyards that produce the best wines in France.
Explore the medieval streets and rich cultural heritage that has inspired many artists.
A world of fantasy and fun with characters that delight all ages.
Essential Booking Resources for Paris Day TripsWe may earn a commission for purchases made through the links below at no cost to you |
Great for comparing flight options across airlines if you're flying into Paris. 🏨 Booking.com and Hotels.com Comprehensive sites for finding hotels in Paris or near your day trip destinations if planning an overnight stay. The go-to platform for booking train tickets in France, including RER and regional trains for day trips. Book early for potentially better prices. 🚗 RentalCars and DiscoverCars Excellent comparison sites for finding car rental deals if you opt to drive, especially useful for the Loire Valley. 🎟️ GetYourGuide and Viator Our top recommendations for booking guided day tours, skip-the-line attraction tickets, and unique local experiences. Huge selection, reliable operators, and often flexible cancellation policies. Stay connected easily with an eSIM plan for France/Europe. Activate it upon arrival without swapping physical SIM cards. |
Giverny Day Trip: Explore Monet's Garden Paradise (Easy Train Ride)
(Distance: 75 km | Highlights: Monet's Gardens, Impressionism | Best For: Art Lovers, Garden Enthusiasts)
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.
What to see in Giverny in one day
Monet's Garden
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.
Must-see:
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
Just steps from Monet's house, this excellent museum delves deeper into the Impressionist movement.
It showcases temporary exhibitions featuring works by Monet, his contemporaries, and artists influenced by Impressionism. Check their website for current exhibitions.
The museum also boasts its own lovely garden, offering another perspective on art and nature.
Giverny Tickets price
14 Euros for Adults. Combined tickets with the Museum of Impressionism are available
For more information access Giverny official site: https://claudemonetgiverny.fr/en/
Booking: Strongly recommend booking online in advance, especially for timed entry during peak season!
Museum of Impressionism: Separate ticket or combined ticket. Official site: https://www.mdig.fr/en/
How to Get to Giverny from Paris (Train & Tour Options)
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 GetYourGuide tours include round-trip transportation, admission to Monet's gardens, and free time to explore the village. Both are super safe and reliable.
Extra Tips for your Giverny visit
Arrive either early at 9:30am or late in the afternoon (after 3 pm) to avoid the peak tour bus crowds and get photos with fewer people, especially at the Japanese bridge.
Flowers: The garden's beauty changes weekly! Check seasonal bloom calendars online if you hope to see specific flowers (like the water lilies, usually June-August).
Stroll through the charming little village of Giverny, with its stone houses and art galleries, and the lovely Sainte-Radegonde church where Monet is buried. It’s a lovely complement to a visit to the gardens.
Where to eat: There are cafés and restaurants in the village and near the gardens. Consider having lunch there for a complete village experience.
Versailles Day Trip: Explore the Royal Palace & Gardens
(Distance: 25 km | Highlights: Palace, Gardens, History | Best For: History Buffs, Grandeur Seekers)
Prepare to be dazzled! Versailles is synonymous with French royalty, opulence, and the absolute power of King Louis XIV, the "Sun King."
Located just southwest of Paris, this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site is arguably France's most famous attraction outside the capital.
A day trip here is a journey into centuries of history, art, and breathtaking landscape design.
What to see in Versailles in a short trip
The Grandeur of the Palace
The Palace of Versailles stands as a symbol of the glory of French architecture during the 17th century.
The Hall of Mirrors (Galerie des Glaces): Simply iconic! This superbe hall with its 357 mirrors facing arched windows overlooking the gardens is where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending WWI. Imagine the grand balls held here!
The King's Grand Apartment (Grand Appartement du Roi): A series of stunning salons used for official court functions, each dedicated to a classical deity (Hercules, Venus, Mars, etc.). Admire the intricate ceiling paintings and lavish decoration.
The Queen's Grand Apartment (Grand Appartement de la Reine): Symmetrical to the King's apartments, including the Queen's Bedchamber, where queens gave birth in public!
The Royal Chapel: A masterpiece of Baroque architecture where the royal family attended daily Mass.
History Gallery & Battle Gallery: Learn about the palace's history and admire monumental paintings depicting French military victories.
Exploring The Vast Versailles Gardens and Fountains
Designed by the brilliant André Le Nôtre, the Gardens of Versailles cover a staggering 800 hectares (nearly 2,000 acres!). They are a masterpiece of formal French garden design.
Key Features: Perfectly manicured lawns (parterres), stunning sculptures, hidden groves (bosquets), and the grand Canal.
Fountains: Discover numerous ornate fountains. During spring and summer weekends (and some Tuesdays), enjoy the Musical Fountain Shows (Grandes Eaux Musicales) where fountains 'dance' to classical music (requires a specific ticket).
The Musical Gardens (Jardins Musicaux) offer music playing in the groves on other days.
It is no wonder that they are considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Europe.
The Trianon Palaces and Marie Antoinette's Estate
Escape the main Palace crowds and explore this more intimate area, often a highlight for visitors!
The Grand Trianon: An elegant pink marble palace built by Louis XIV as a retreat from court life.
The Petit Trianon: Given to Marie Antoinette by Louis XVI, this neoclassical gem was her private domain. There, the queen could escape the pressures of royal duties and indulge in the pastoral lifestyle.
The Queen's Hamlet (Hameau de la Reine): A fairytale rustic village created for Marie Antoinette, featuring charming cottages, a lake, and farm animals. It feels worlds away from the main palace!
If you are into castles, dive into the English Royal history reading about the Windsor Castle.
How much is the ticket to Versailles?
Several Ticket Options:
Passport Ticket: Includes access to the Palace, Gardens (including Musical Fountains/Gardens if running), Trianon Estate, and temporary exhibitions. The best option for a full-day visit. Approx €32 (check official site).
Palace Ticket: Access only to the main Palace. Approx €21.
Trianon Estate Ticket: Access only to Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Queen's Hamlet. Approx €12.
For other dates and times, please consult the official ticket office https://en.chateauversailles.fr/plan-your-visit/tickets-and-prices
Booking: ESSENTIAL to book online in advance! You'll select a timed entry slot for the Palace, which helps manage crowds. Book weeks or even months ahead for peak season.
Skip-the-Line: Even with a timed entry ticket, expect security lines. Guided tours often offer faster entry.
How to Get to Versailles from Paris (RER Train Guide)
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.
Ticket: Requires a specific Paris Region (Ile-de-France) ticket covering zones 1-4. A Navigo pass covering these zones works, otherwise buy a dedicated return ticket. Do not use a standard Paris metro ticket (t+).
Alternatively, take a Viator or GetYourGuide day tour to Versailles from Paris.
Extra tips for Versailles (Crowds & Comfort)
Tickets: Buy your tickets online and well in advance! The lines to buy tickets at the door are super long, especially in the summer.
Time: Versailles is HUGE. Set aside at least 3 to 4 hours for the palace alone and plan another 2 to 3 hours for the Gardens and Marie Antoinette’s Estate (Grand Trianon, Petit Trianon, and Hameau de la Reine). Be prepared to dedicate the entire day.
Musical Fountains: Check the summer schedule for the Musical Fountain Shows. The spectacle is beautiful, and the music brings the gardens to life. The access to this area on show days is charged separately.
Comfort: Wear VERY comfortable shoes. You will walk for miles inside the palace and in the vast gardens. If you need inspiration to choose comfortable and stylish shoes, read our post White Sneakers Unleashed: Style & Care.
Exploring: To cover the vast gardens and reach the Trianons and Hameau, consider renting an electric cart, a bicycle, or taking the Petit Train, all available on site.
Food & Drink: Options range from fancy restaurants (Alain Ducasse's Ore) to casual cafes (La Flottille near the Canal) and takeaway kiosks. You can also bring your own picnic to enjoy in designated areas of the park (not inside buildings). Bring water!
Loire Valley Day Trip: Châteaux Hopping & Vineyards
(Distance: ~215 km to Tours | Highlights: Castles (Châteaux), Vineyards | Best For: Fairytale Seekers, Wine Lovers, History Fans)
Welcome to the "Garden of France"! The Loire Valley is a lush, sprawling region famous for its breathtaking fairytale castles (châteaux) and world-class vineyards.
It feels like stepping into a storybook. While further from Paris than Giverny or Versailles, a day trip is possible and offers a wonderful taste of French Renaissance history and scenic beauty.
Which Loire Valley Castles should you visit on a day trip from Paris? (Chambord, Chenonceau)
The Loire Valley has over 300 châteaux, each with its unique history and architectural style.
Château de Chambord: The largest and perhaps most magnificent! Famous for its distinctive French Renaissance architecture (possibly influenced by Da Vinci) and incredible double-helix staircase. It's vast and imposing, set in a huge forested park.
Château de Chenonceau: The elegant "Ladies' Castle," known for its beautiful arches spanning the River Cher. Shaped by influential women throughout history, it's renowned for its stunning interiors, impressive art collection, and gorgeous gardens.
Château d'Amboise: A royal château perched above the charming town of Amboise, offering great views. Clos Lucé nearby is where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years.
Château de Cheverny: Beautifully furnished, privately owned castle famed for inspiring Marlinspike Hall in the Tintin comics. Often paired with Chambord on tours.
Recommendation for a Day Trip: Aim for Chambord + Chenonceau (often combined on guided tours) or Chenonceau + Amboise.
Want to know more about all the Loire Castles? Read our post: Loire Valley Chateaux, and walk through the History of France.
Vineyards and Wine Tasting
The Loire Valley is France's third-largest wine-producing region! It's especially known for:
White Wines: Sauvignon Blanc (Sancerre, Pouilly-Fumé), Chenin Blanc (Vouvray, Savennières).
Red Wines: Cabernet Franc (Chinon, Bourgueil).
Rosé & Sparkling Wines: Crémant de Loire.
Many wineries (domaines) offer tastings (dégustations). Guided tours often include a wine tasting stop. If driving, plan visits carefully and designate a driver!
Summer is an excellent time for wine tours, as the weather is pleasant and the vineyards are in full bloom.
For a completely different wine experience, head south to Bordeaux, where world-famous Cabernet Sauvignon grapes reign supreme.
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.
How much is a ticket to Loire Chateau?
Ticket Prices (Approx):
Chambord: €16
Chenonceau: €17 - €22 (depending on options)
Amboise: €16.50
Cheverny: €15
Booking: Recommended to book online in advance, especially for Chenonceau and Chambord during peak season. Check official websites for each château you plan to visit.
How to Get to the Loire Valley from Paris
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.
Here is a table comparing the two most common and effective methods for a castle-focused Loire Valley day trip from Paris: Guided Tour directly from Paris versus Renting a Car in Paris:
Feature | Guided Tour from Paris | Rent a Car in Paris |
|---|---|---|
Overall Convenience | Very High (All logistics handled) | Moderate (Plan route, drive, park) |
Flexibility | Low (Fixed itinerary and schedule) | Very High (Choose castles, set pace) |
Ease of Navigation | Very High (Tour handles all transport) | Moderate (Requires driving & finding sites) |
Ability to Visit Multiple Castles | Moderate to High (Typically 2-3 on tour) | Yes (As many as time allows) |
Time Efficiency | High (Optimized route by tour operator) | Moderate (Includes driving time from/to Paris) |
Potential Cost | High (Includes transport & often entry) | Moderate to High (Rental + fuel + tolls + parking + entry fees) |
Best For | Convenience, no planning, guided experience | Independence, specific interests, own pace |
Tips for a Loire Valley Day Trip
Choose: It’s impossible to visit many castles on a day trip from Paris. Ideally, you should focus on 1 or 2 castles that are close to each other and easily accessible, such as Chambord and Cheverny or Chenonceau and Amboise.
Logistics: Consider the best form of transportation for your purpose. A guided tour from Paris is the most practical option if you want to see more than one castle in 1 day without worrying about driving or parking. Renting a car offers flexibility but involves a longer drive.
Choose Wisely: Pick castles that genuinely interest you based on architecture, history, or gardens.
Wine: The region is one of the largest wine producers in France. Try some local wines in a restaurant or shop (in moderation, of course!). Refreshing white wines and light reds are specialties.
Gardens: Don’t just focus on the interiors of the castles. Many of them, such as Chenonceau Castle, have magnificent gardens worth exploring.
Rouen Day Trip: Normandy's Historic Medieval Capital
(Distance: 135 km | Highlights: Medieval Center, Cathedral, Joan of Arc History | Best For: History & Culture Fans, Architecture Lovers)
Journey northwest from Paris into the heart of Normandy to explore Rouen! This vibrant city, dramatically set on the River Seine, is steeped in history.
Famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral immortalized by Monet, its charming medieval quarter with half-timbered houses, and its poignant connection to Joan of Arc, Rouen offers a rich cultural experience just a short train ride away.
What to do in Rouen on a day trip from Paris?
Gothic Marvel of Rouen Cathedral
A masterpiece of French Gothic architecture! Its intricate facade famously captivated Claude Monet, who painted it over 30 times in different lights.
Admire the soaring spire (the tallest in France!), stunning stained glass, and the tombs of Norman dukes, including Richard the Lionheart (his heart, anyway!).
Explore Old Rouen (vieux Rouen)
Get lost (in a good way!) wandering the atmospheric cobblestone streets lined with beautifully preserved medieval half-timbered houses.
It feels like stepping back in time.
Rue du Gros-Horloge:
Walk down this iconic pedestrian street towards the Gros Horloge, a magnificent 14th-century astronomical clock that has been keeping time for centuries.
You can climb for fantastic city views.
The historic market square where Joan of Arc was tragically burned at the stake in 1431. Today, it features a modern church dedicated to her, restaurants, and a covered market.
Joan of Arc History in Rouen
Rouen is inextricably linked to Saint Joan of Arc.
Historial Jeanne d'Arc: Visit this excellent immersive museum housed in the Archbishop's Palace complex, where her trial took place. It uses multimedia displays to tell her incredible story. (Approx €11 entry).
Joan of Arc Tower (Tour Jeanne d'Arc): Part of the former castle where she was imprisoned (though likely not in this specific tower). Offers historical exhibits.
Museums and Art Galleries
Roun 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.
How much do tickets to the main attractions in Rouen cost?
Cathedral: Free entry.
Gros Horloge: Approx €7.50 to climb the tower/visit museum.
Historial Jeanne d'Arc: Approx €11.
Musée des Beaux-Arts: Approx €8-€12 (check official site).
Booking: Generally not essential to book basic entry tickets far in advance, but check official websites for current prices and opening hours.
How to get to Rouen from Paris
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.
Extra tips for Rouen short trip
Walk Everywhere: Rouen's historic heart is compact and perfect for exploring on foot. Wear comfortable shoes!
Look Up! Admire the details on the half-timbered buildings and the grandeur of the churches.
Try Normandy Specialties: Sample local delights like Normandy cider, Calvados apple brandy, Neufchâtel cheese (heart-shaped!), and delicious apple tarts (Tarte Normande). Many great restaurants are around Place du Vieux-Marché.
Monet's Viewpoint: While you can't access the exact spot Monet painted from (it was a shop opposite the cathedral), appreciate the facade from the Place de la Cathédrale and imagine how the light changes.
Rouen is also the gateway to explore more of Normandy, like the D-Day beaches or Mont Saint Michel, on a longer trip. Definitely worth a road trip. Want an itinerary? Check out our 8 days itinerary from Rouen to Mont St Michel.
Disneyland Paris Day Trip: A Magical Escape for Families
(Distance: 45 km | Highlights: Theme Parks, Family Fun, Iconic Characters | Best For: Families, Disney Fans, Young-at-Heart)
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 much does a ticket to Disneyland cost?
Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park: 1 day, no set date: 144 Euros
Only 1 park, 1 day, no set date: 119 Euros
1 park, 1 day, in June with a set date: 72 to 89 Euros (depending on the day/month)
2 parks, 1 day, in June with a set date: 97 to 114 Euros
Check the official website for other dates and other packages: https://tickets.disneylandparis.com/pt-pt/tickets
How to Get to Disneyland from Paris?
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.
Extra Tips for Disneyland Paris:
Buy your tickets online and in advance! This is essential to save time at the entrance and, depending on the season, guarantee entry to the park.
Arrive Before Opening ("Rope Drop"): Get there at least 30-60 minutes before the official park opening time to clear security and be ready to head straight to popular rides with lower morning waits.
Download the official Disneyland Paris app on your phone. It shows real-time queue times, show and parade times, and park maps. Perfect to optimize your day.
Prioritize Rides: Know which rides are must-dos for your group and head to the most popular ones first (e.g., Crush's Coaster, Big Thunder Mountain, Peter Pan's Flight).
Use Premier Access (Optional/Paid): Disneyland Paris offers paid options (Premier Access One or Ultimate) to bypass the regular queue for specific rides. Can save significant time on busy days but adds cost. Research if it's worth it for your group.
Parks: Disneyland Paris has two theme parks: Disneyland Park (with the iconic castle) and Walt Disney Studios Park. Based on your interests and available time, decide whether to visit one or both locations.
Plan for Parades & Shows: Check the app for times of the famous Disney Stars on Parade and the spectacular nighttime fireworks/drone show over the castle (usually called Disney Dreams! or similar). Find viewing spots early!
Check Return Train Times: Be aware of the last RER A train time back to Paris if staying for the nighttime show.
Stay Hydrated & Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll do a massive amount of walking! Bring water bottles (refill stations available) and wear your most comfortable shoes.
Mobile Order Food: Use the app to order food from quick-service restaurants in advance to save time waiting in food lines, especially at peak lunch/dinner times. Or bring your snacks to save some money.
Beyond the Top 5: More Day Trip Getaways near Paris
Whether your stay in Paris allows you to explore a little further, or if you are looking for alternatives to the more classic destinations, the surrounding areas of the capital and a little further afield offer other fantastic experiences.
Here, we present some getaway ideas, including options that can be done in 1 day or worth considering an overnight stay for immersion.
If you can stay one night: an Overnight Getaway
Have more time or looking for alternatives to the big names? The region around Paris is rich with possibilities! Here are a few more excellent options:
Charming Annecy, the French Venice
Okay, this is much further, but worth mentioning for a longer getaway! Picture canals, flower-lined bridges, a stunning turquoise lake, and a charming old town against an Alpine backdrop.
Getting There: ~3h 45min by TGV train from Paris Gare de Lyon. Best enjoyed with at least one overnight stay.
Highlights: Exploring the Vieille Ville (Old Town), Lake Annecy boat trips, Palais de l'Isle. Want to know more? Dive into our guide and explore the Venice of the Alps.
Mont Saint Michel: : Normandy's Iconic Abbey (Overnight Option)
Another iconic, further destination best done with an overnight stay to experience the magical island abbey at high tide and without peak crowds. A true medieval marvel! One of the most beautiful medieval villages in Europe.
Getting There: ~3.5-4 hours by car from Paris, or train to Rennes/Dol de Bretagne + bus. Can be combined with a Normandy trip starting in Rouen.
Highlights: The Benedictine Abbey itself, wandering the medieval village streets, witnessing the dramatic tides.
Other great short trips from Paris
Chartres: Gothic Cathedral Masterpiece
Famous worldwide for its magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its incredibly preserved 12th and 13th-century stained glass windows. A must for architecture and history lovers.
Getting There: Easy ~1-hour train ride from Paris Gare Montparnasse.
Highlights: The Cathedral (take a guided tour to appreciate the glass!), charming old town.
Fontainebleau: Royal Palace & Forest Escape
A fantastic alternative or addition to Versailles.
The Château de Fontainebleau was a residence for French monarchs for centuries, showcasing diverse architectural styles. Less crowded than Versailles.
It's paired with the vast Forest of Fontainebleau, popular for hiking, bouldering, and enjoying nature.
Getting There: ~40-60 min train ride from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon station + short bus/walk, or ~1-hour drive.
A perfect combination of history and nature for a day out.
Provins: Medieval Town Experience
Step back in time in this incredibly well-preserved medieval fortified town, another UNESCO site.
Explore ancient ramparts, towers, and underground passages.
Known for its historical re-enactment shows (check schedules, especially in summer). A unique and fascinating day trip.
Getting There: ~1h 25min train ride from Paris Gare de l'Est.Travel back in time by visiting Provins, a medieval fortified town 1 hour and 40 minutes by train from Paris (Gare de l'Est).
Exploring the surrounding area of Paris reveals the diversity and richness of France. Seeking an extra day of adventure or a longer getaway? There is always something new and fascinating to discover nearby.
Final Thoughts: Are Summer Day Trips from Paris Worth It?
So, is venturing beyond Paris for a day trip during the summer truly worthwhile? The answer is a resounding yes! As we've seen, the areas surrounding the capital offer an incredible diversity of experiences just a short journey away.
Dream of walking through the vibrant, living art of Monet's Giverny or experiencing the sheer grandeur of Versailles?
Or do you rather sip wine amidst stunning Loire Valley châteaux, tracing history down Rouen's medieval streets?
Into family thrills? Why not enjoy Disneyland Paris? These easy escapes provide immense value and create unforgettable memories.
They offer a fantastic way to deepen your appreciation for French culture, history, and beauty without the need to pack and unpack multiple times.
Don't just read about it—use the practical tips, transport guides, and recommended booking links for tours and tickets within this guide to start planning your perfect French adventure beyond the City of Lights today!
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!
Want to explore Paris in other seasons? Do not miss our guides Fall in Paris and Spring in Paris, and discover everything the city has to offer year-round!
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