10 Incredible Day Trips From Paris By Train
While Paris is home to an abundance of must-see sites, museums, and restaurants – This city is only scraping the surface of what France has to offer. Hopping on a short train ride from Paris will lead you to countless medieval towns, breathtaking views, and even a few beachside hot spots!
Below is a list of 10 places you can reach by train from Paris in roughly 3 hours or less – Next time you plan a trip to The City of Lights, be sure to save a day or two for these short but sweet adventures!
10 Incredible Day Trips From Paris By Train
1. Rouen, France (pictured above)
This cozy town is roughly 90 minutes from Paris by train and is home to Notre-Dame Cathedral, the tallest cathedral in all of France. Here you will find photo-worthy views on every corner, incredible gothic architecture, and one of the most noteworthy art museums in the country.
How To Get There:
Take the TER from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen (Approximately 90 Minutes; 30 Euro/Way)
2. Deauville, France
This colorful and glamorous boardwalk is the perfect destination for Parisians in need of a beach getaway. Only a couple hours from Paris and filled with chic beach resorts, fine dining, and luxurious hotels – Deauville is just the right reason to escape the city for a couple days.
How To Get There:
Take the TNO from Paris Saint-Lazare to Trouville – Deauville (Approx. 2 Hr 10 Min; 22 Euro/Way)
3. Brussels, Belgium
The eccentric capital of Belgium is surprisingly only a couple hours from Paris by train and will keep you entertained for days – Although you can get a good taste of what the city has to offer with only one day if that’s all you’ve got! Peruse the comic strip street art, take a look at the quirky statues, and experience their unique gastronomy – A combination of rich flavors and simple dishes.
How To Get There:
(Option A) Take the SNCF TGV INOUI from Paris Gare du Nord to Lille Flandres then transfer to Lille-Europe
(Approx. 2 Hr 10 Min; 80 Euro/Way)
(Option B) Take the BlaBlaCar Bus from Paris, Quai de Bercy to Brussels, Brussels South
(Approx. 5 Hr; 20 Euro/Way)
4. Giverny, France
One of the most famous day trips from Paris, Giverny is the home Seine-side village of impressionist Claude Monet. Here you will find art galleries, museums, and gardens that will leave you relaxed and in awe.
How To Get There:
Take the TER from Paris St-Lazare to Vernon – Giverny (Approx. 52 Min; 17 Euro/Way) then a shuttle will take you to Monet’s Garden (Approx. 15 Min; 10 Euro/Way)
5. Champagne, France
You will not be shocked to discover what there is to do in Champagne, but you will be shocked by the picturesque views! There are a few options available for touring the Champagne vineyards – You can go with a tour guide from Paris for a day of Champagne tours (starting at 240 Euro) or book a train ticket to Reims and book a tour from there (starting at 165 Euro).
The route you choose depends on if you’re wanting to stay the night in Reims, otherwise the prices are pretty similar once you’ve included the train ticket.
How To Get There:
Take the TVG from Paris Est to Reims (Approx. 1 Hour 15 Min; 30 Euro/Way)
Alternatively, if you’re traveling by car – Book a tour directly through one of the vineyards. Explore your options and events here.
6. London, UK
Head off to one of the largest cities in the world with just a 2.5 hour train ride! Explore some of London’s major attractions, such as the Tower of London, the Tower Bridge, Buckingham Palace, or Big Bend. Hop on a Thames River Cruise or spend the day wandering the city and trying out local pubs… Whichever you choose, it will be worth the short trip across the pond!
How To Get There:
Book a ticket through Eurostar from Paris Gare du Nord to London St-Pancras
(Approx. 2.5 Hr; 52 Euro/Way)
7. Lyon, France
Lyon is a top French destination for foodies and history buffs alike! Known for its food and wine, historical landmarks, and rich culture – This city is at the top of the list when it comes to day trips from Paris.
How To Get There:
Take the Frecciarossa train from Paris Lyon to Lyon Part Dieu (Approx. 2 Hr; 57 Euro/Way)
8. Strasbourg, France
An especially popular destination during the holidays, Strasbourg lies on the border of France and Germany and encompasses the most famous Christmas market in France. This town is charming any time of year, but if you’re here for the holidays – Be sure to stay overnight so that you’ll have a chance to take in the gorgeous Christmas lights!
How To Get There:
Take the TVG from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg (Approx. 1 Hr 44 Min; 75 Euro/Way)
9. Colmar, France
Right around the corner from Strasbourg is Colmar! Known for its “Little Venice,” Colmar is just the place to wander aimlessly, taking in the colorful architecture while stopping for a bite, a glass of wine, or a little treat on every corner.
How To Get There:
Take the SNCF | TGV INOUI from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg, then transfer to SNCF | TER to Colmar
(Approx. 2.5 Hr; 93 Euro/Way)
If you’re interested in seeing both Strasbourg and Colmar – This would be great to do all in the same trip!
10. Luxembourg, Luxembourg
This medieval city is often forgotten as one of the major cities in Europe, which is quite a treat for someone who is looking to get away from popular places bursting with tourists. Luxembourg is known for its scenery, which can best be viewed from Le Chemin De La Corniche, “Europe’s Most Beautiful Balcony.”
How To Get There:
Note: There are many options for this trip so be sure to double check which works best for you!
Take the SNCF | TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Saarbrücken Hbf, then transfer to Deutsche Bahn | Bus 82123 to Luxembourg (Approx. 3.5 Hr; 105 Euro/Way)
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Fingers crossed that your next Paris trip has now expanded into new dimensions! Which of these 10 Paris Day Trips will you embark on first? Let me know – I would love to hear all about it!
Heading off on your first European adventure and not sure what to pack? Check out this Europe Backpacking Essentials Guide for 10 items you MUST bring along!
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