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5 Best Day Trips from Paris

By Mary Winston Nicklin and Lindsey Tramuta

There's enough culture in Paris—be it food, drink, art, history, dance, music, or shopping—to entertain for a lifetime. Believe it or not, though, that range of experiences increases ten-fold if you venture beyond the city borders. These are the day trips (or weekend getaways, or short overnights) that are worth your limited time, even as a visitor. Within, find our guide on where to go, what to see, what to eat, and what to do in lovely Versailles, Fontainebleau, Reims, Chantilly, and Lille. These are the best day trips from Paris, according to Condé Nast Traveler.

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Versailles is one of the most common trips to pair with a visit to Paris for reasons that are apparent: the Palace of Versailles is a marvel and one of France's most popular tourist destinations, and it's barely 30 minutes away by car. The crowds can get gnarly, but it's well worth it to experience a slice of history so vividly. Expand beyond the court of Louis XIV during your trip, and nab at table at some of the modern restaurants setting the standard for food in the city. 

Waldorf Astoria Versailles - Trianon Palace Arrow

Just at the edge of the Chateau de Versailles gardens, the Trianon Palace takes its inspiration from the Grand Trianon, the pink-marble hideaway built by Louis XIV as an escape from confining courtly life. Rooms are spacious with plush, contemporary furnishings, but request one facing the garden or park in the historic hotel, and not the newer annex. Rooms come with Nespresso machines, Salvatore Ferragamo bath products, and mosaic-tiled marble bathrooms with heated floors. Some have marble fireplaces. You can’t get much closer to sleeping at the Chateau de Versailles than an overnight at the Trianon Palace.

Ore - Ducasse au Château de Versailles Arrow

The best part about dining here is that the experience is all Alain Ducasse in style and service, without the steep prices. The menu at Ore is a combination of gussied-up snacks like croque-monsieur, and thoughtful market-fresh dishes like spelt and wild mushroom salad, or steamed turbot with truffled hollandaise sauce, all priced to fit a range of wallets. Signature desserts, such as “Les Versaillaises,” offer lightened updates on French classics. Foreigners are likely to come here only if they're already planning to tour the Château—but it merits a special visit on its own. It's grand, as it should be, but accessible.

Le Pincemin Arrow

At Le Pincemin, the artistic, inventive menu changes often based on the chef's whims, but you're likely to find dishes that meld land and sea; say, beef tartare with oysters, salicornes, and confit cucumbers, served in a giant Limoges porcelain shell. The signature—which must be ordered in advance—is the blue Breton lobster, flambeed and served with vegetables glazed in lobster bisque. The fixed lunch menu costs 35 euros (about $38); dinners have a five-course tasting for 65 euros (about $70).

Caitlin Morton

Stacey Lastoe

Meaghan Kenny

La Mangette Arrow

La Mangette is a postage stamp-sized canteen close to the Palace of Versailles. The daily menu is scrawled on a blackboard with a handful of simple options featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients from the surrounding Ile de France region. An added bonus? It’s mostly organic. La Mangette is also a great option for take-out. There’s a refrigerated display case by the door where you can pick up salads and such—perfect for picnics in the palace gardens. It's a perfect spot for a healthy lunch or to provision a picnic to enjoy in the palace gardens.

La Table du 11 Arrow

This Michelin-starred restaurant is steps away from the Palace of Versailles, but worlds away from the crowds. The setting is sublime; the Cour des Senteurs (“the courtyard of fragrances”) was restored a few years ago and is now a tranquil, cobbled courtyard lined with fashionable shops (like one devoted to Toile de Jouy fabrics), a tea room, and La Table du 11. Young chef Jean-Baptiste Lavergne Morazzani (he’s not even 30 years old) trained at top addresses, including the Trianon Palace, Cobéa, and Le Meurice (under super-chef Yannick Alléno) before striking out on his own. Now he’s branched out with a bistro and wine shop in addition to this gourmet address—a veritable gastronomic empire in Versailles, with a mission of promoting sustainability. Lavergne Morazzani is all about line-caught fish and organic vegetables sourced from his own vegetable garden in Saint-Nom-la-Bretèche. 

Palace of Versailles Arrow

This mind-blowing historic marvel is one of France's most opulent jewels, and is crucial to understanding the country's history and a very specific moment of leadership. A 17th century Château and estate that spans over 800 hectares (1,977 acres), The Sun King's grand creation is open for visits year-round and includes bedrooms, the King's state apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and some 2,300 rooms in total. Annual summer exhibitions highlight the works of prominent contemporary artists like Jeff Koons, Anish Kapoor, and Olafur Eliasson, whose art is displayed in the sprawling gardens. The old and new come together beautifully, a nod to its initial mission to support artistic creations.

Bar Galerie, at the Trianon Palace (Waldorf Astoria) Arrow

This spot inside the Trianon Palace provides a beautiful backdrop for afternoon tea. It is served in The Gallery, the long vestibule that serves as the main artery of the hotel. Think soaring columns, gold ceiling, and marble floors in black and white tiles. Crystal chandeliers hang above velvet sofas and high-backed green leather armchairs. You have choices as to how indulgent you want your tea service to be, but note the chariot de pâtisseries (pastry trolley) is available on Saturdays and Sundays only. When it comes to the tea itself, the selection may include classics like Darjeeling, Earl Grey, Oolong, and Tarry Lapsang, but you want the Marie Antoinette NINA’S: Ceylon tea scented with roses and apples pulled from the Potager du Roi (the King's Kitchen Garden) in Versailles.

FONTAINEBLEAU

Little more than 40 miles from Paris and accessible by train, Fontainebleau is a cinch of a day trip. The main sight to see is the Château de Fontainebleau, but you'll want to stay a while to savor the food and drink at places like the acclaimed L'Axel. It's also a perfect jaunt for the outdoorsy, too, with ample opportunities for bouldering and climbing in the plucked-from-a-fairy-tale forest that surrounds the town and has inspired artists for centuries.

Hôtel de Londres Arrow

The owners refer to the Hotel de Londres (“Hotel London”) as a “hotel de charme,” and the minute you step inside you see why, with its toile de Jouy wallpaper, comfy armchairs, and wall-size painting depicting an English hunting scene. Three generations of the Famille Colombier have tended to this cozy three-star hotel, which is a historic registered landmark dating from 1850. Best of all: You can’t get much closer to the Chateau de Fontainebleau. From the light-filled breakfast room, you can watch the morning light glint on Napoleon’s gilded gate while sipping a café crème and munching on a croissant.

Hôtel La Demeure du Parc Arrow

La Demeure du Parc is like the private home of a stylish connoisseur, with a sleek and contemporary design, and right next to the Chateau de Fontainebleau gardens. The interiors still have historic touches, like the hefty timber beams in the restaurant. Back in the Chateau de Fontainebleau’s heyday, this mansion served as an annex for Louis XIV’s guests. Today, it's a boutique hotel with black and white tiled floors alongside natural wood parquet, covetable designer chairs in a rich royal blue, and a glass-roofed atrium flooding the lower level with light.

Barbizon and the Auberge Ganne Arrow

The forest of Fontainebleau inspired 19th-century painters in the Barbizon School, the art movement anchored in Realism that was named for the village at the forest’s doorstep. Oozing charm, the village is still an inspiration to present-day artists—you'll see plenty of galleries lining the cobblestone streets. Take a stroll down the main road to see the Théodore Rousseau house and Jean-François Millet’s art studio. The Auberge Ganne, the inn that hosted many of the period painters, has been converted into a small museum (Musée des Peintres de Barbizon).

Frédéric Cassel Pâtisserie Arrow

In the world of haute pâtisserie, there are a few names enshrined in the hall of fame. Frédéric Cassel is one of them. Early in his career, he worked alongside his friend Pierre Hermé at Fauchon, and now has international stores in Kyoto, Tokyo , Berlin , and Casablanca. Cassel was World Pastry Champion in 2013 and presided over the prestigious Relais Desserts association from 2003–2018. Reflecting the seasons, his collection changes every six months. Showstoppers in the display case may include the Jivara, a brownie-bottomed dome with layers of vanilla crème brûlée and chocolate mousse; and the Tarte Jardin des Hesperides, a shortbread tart topped with bergamot-flavored orange and grapefruit wedges.

La Table du Parc Arrow

This restaurant inside La Demeure du Parc isn’t just a hotel restaurant but a stylish spot for a good meal. A fashionable crowd takes its time to linger over the food, savoring amuse-bouches and multiple courses. Chef Christophe Borniche frequently changes his menu based on what’s fresh and seasonal at the market. Dishes might include the oeuf parfait to start—served with truffles and spring shoots atop a comté-infused potato purée—and, for the main course, aged beef cooked in a Josper charcoal oven. Tip: Order the mandarin and cinnamon soufflé at the beginning of your meal as it takes time to prepare.

L'Axel Arrow

Inside a townhouse, just a few minutes’ walk from the Fontainebleau chateau, is the best table in town. Japanese chef Kunihisa Goto opened L’Axel with his wife Vanessa in 2012 and won a Michelin star shortly after. The food is dizzyingly good. To start, choose the “oeuf translucide” with green asparagus and parmesan emulsion. (If you’re lucky, there might even be an amuse-bouche of foie gras flan and oyster foam.) Taste flavors like yuzu and salty salicornes in the signature fish dish: a turbot prepared in the meunière fashion with beurre blanc. Don’t miss the Wagyu beef prepared with onions, ginger, and vegetables as a riff on a classic “pot au feu.” The wine list features some excellent bottles from Burgundy, thanks to the chef's contacts there.

Château de Fontainebleau Arrow

It's a UNESCO World Heritage site , but still perhaps one of the most underrated landmarks in France. For one thing, it was inhabited by French royalty continuously for seven centuries. Napoleon preferred it to any other residence, calling it “the true home of kings.” It's also the most furnished chateau in the country and the decor is something to see (think Renaissance frescoes, precious porcelain, exceptional furniture through the Second Empire). No wonder so many art history students come here to study the decorative arts. There are newly renovated spaces that are only available on special guided tours: the Imperial Theatre, commissioned by Napoleon III, Marie-Antoinette’s Turkish Boudoir, Napoleon III’s study, and Eugenie’s Lacquer Room. The chateau is close enough to Paris —less than an hour southeast by train—but it feels like deep countryside. Allow time for a stroll in the sprawling gardens and along the canal designed by architect André Le Nôtre.

Forêt de Fontainebleau Arrow

Fontainebleau's famous forest is one of the largest in France, encompassing 50,000 acres. The chateau , in all its stupefying glory, wouldn’t exist without the Forest of Fontainebleau. This was the playground of Renaissance king François I, who spent so much time on the royal hunting grounds that he decided to expand the existing medieval castle into a royal chateau. (Why camp out in the Loire Valley when you have access to game-packed forest much closer to Paris?) Stags and wild boar still roam the woods—you’ll notice warning signs on the road. In the 19th century, the forest starred on the canvases of the Barbizon school painters , like Jean-Francois Millet and Camille Corot. Today, Fontainebleau Forest continues to inspire artists, as it does outdoors enthusiasts, who flock for hiking, cycling, and bouldering.

Marché de Fontainebleau Arrow

Three times a week (Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday mornings), the grand square next to the Fontainebleau tourist office (Place de la République) is converted into a bustling street market. Hitting up the marché is a great way to mingle with locals and soak up the authentic ambience. Fontainebleau is in fact a city (and a prosperous one at that), but the market exudes a village vibe. Cheesemongers, butchers, green grocers, farmers, clothing, artisanal soaps—there’s a huge selection among the stalls. Follow the locals to find the best ones, and don't leave without a wheel of brie de Meaux. 

Spa at Château d'Augerville Arrow

Sprawling across 6,600 square feet, the serene spa takes its design cues from nature, with “living” walls, white stones, and light-colored wood. It occupies two levels of a restored ancient building. A highlight is the vast “sensorial space” that includes a wet area with pools, a hammam, sauna, “rain mist” corridor, and ice cave. There’s a three-pronged focus here: relaxation, slimming, and après-Golf, and you can actually follow the circuit through the sensorial zone based on your spa goals. The spa is open to the public, but it’s also possible to rent out the whole space.

Château de Vaux le Vicomte Arrow

Simply put: This is the prettiest privately owned château in France. Even Princess Elizabeth agreed. On a visit in 1948, she said, “more beautiful than Versailles!” Famously, Vaux-le-Vicomte was actually the inspiration for the Château de Versailles . Today the chateau can be visited year-round, except for an annual winter closure; tickets can be purchased on site or online in advance. It draws a mix of Parisians and tourists. There are fun events throughout the year that draw regulars. In the summer, the gardens are lit with 2,000 candles during the “candlelit evenings.” There are also theatrical shows and concerts. The annual Christmas festivities are wildly popular as well; each room is individually decorated with a Christmas tree and festive decor.

Reims is a lot of things—the unspoken capital of the Champagne wine region , the City of Kings, and home to multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites. One of them is the nearly destroyed Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, where kings were crowned for more than a thousand years. The underrated destination in northeast France is riddled with Roman history, too. It's said that Remus, the brother of Romulus, founded the city, hence its name.

L'Assiette Champenoise Arrow

Not only is it one of only two luxury hotels in the region, it's also a temple of high gastronomy. Any stay here should include a meal in the three-Michelin-Star restaurant which, on its own, is memorable enough. The outside may look straight out of the history books, but it's completely contemporary once you step through the front door. Rooms are large, bright, and airy, with jumbo beds ideal for sleeping. Finally, as this is Champagne, there is plenty of the good stuff available.

Domaine Les Crayères Arrow

Grand is the operative word at this Relais & Châteaux property adjacent to the Pommery champagne house. The building is surrounded by 17 acres of verdant parkland, the best view of which can be had from the La Rotonde bar, a warm space with live music and tall bay windows. A grand staircase takes guests up to one of 20 rooms done up in classic French style. Room decor sports royal vibes, transporting visitors to another century. With a Michelin-starred restaurant on site, staying here is like experiencing life as a Champagne royal.

Domaine Veuve Clicquot Arrow

Tours at the Veuve Clicquot headquarters spotlight the brand's history while also showing off the cellars, which are carved into ancient limestone quarries called crayères. Group tours are limited to 19 people and conclude with a tasting. Other options include a Madame Clicquot-themed tour of Reims (for up to eight people) and tasting workshops. The tour provides a good overview of the Champagne-making process while also evoking a fascinating backstory.

Arnaud's Lallement three-Michelin star restaurant inside L'Assiette Champenoise hotel offers unparalleled ingredient sourcing and plated perfection.  Lallement took over the space from his father 20 years ago and puts out signature dishes, like langoustine royale with a creamy "nage" and caviar lemon; farm-raised squab with spinach caillette and pigeon juice; blue lobster from Brittany (an homage to his father). Service is first-rate from start to finish. Given the price tag and the formality of the experience, this is a once-in-a-lifetime meal for a special trip or occasion.

Le Parc Arrow

An elegant dining room dining room set inside Les Crayères hotel , is the place for a last-meal-of-your-life situation. It's pure poetry and presentation. From the way the dishes are served to the plating and masterful flavor combinations, the food is awe-inspiring and far more modern and inventive than the grand, if classic, dining room decor would lead you to believe. If your belly allows, opt for the “Entre Vigne et Terroir” menu to get the full experience, or the Menu Blanc, which gives carte blanche to chef Philippe Mille to surprise you. Make sure to call over the cheese trolley, which features many options from the region, and choose the Champagne pairing with dinner. The list is truly vast. 

Racine Arrow

An original fine-dining experience that feels unique for Reims. Artistic presentation and perfect preparations are what you'll take away from a meal here. Beautiful flavors that blend the chef's Japanese heritage with French training and ingredients. It's no surprise it earned a Michelin star. Go for the tasting menu to get a broad sense of the chef's culinary vision. Take the diner who wants a fine-dining experience without the pomp and circumstance that often follows the Michelin-starred vibe in Champagne.

Hôtel Les Avisés Arrow

A puckishly hip ten-room hotel opened by Anselme Selosse, one of the great small Champagne makers, in a handsome nineteenth-century neoclassical manor house with sweeping views of the vineyards. A postmodern riff on conventional château style. French designer Bruno Borrione, who once worked with Philippe Starck, furnished the spacious lounge and dining room with sleek contemporary pieces while highlighting the parquet floors and white-painted moldings. Rooms are plush, well-lit cocoons in warm, acidic earth tones.

Café du Palais Arrow

This Reims institution is super-charged, with stained glass, wall hangings that look plucked from an antique market, old paintings and framed illustrations, small statues and flea market ephemera, vintage clocks, and old bistro tables and chairs. It's bright and colorful but if the weather allows, take your meal on the outdoor terrace. The space is full of character, with hearty, saucey, generous food, and a friendly and engaging staff. Perfect for a quick lunch before touring the Champagne estates all afternoon.

Domaine Vranken Pommery Arrow

This estate is one of a few in Champagne to have crayères, chalk caves that began as quarries in the Early Middle Ages and are ranked a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tour itself, which is only available upon request, with reservation, and with a guide (in English or French), takes a sizable group (10 to 12) into the Gallo-Roman crayères. Most cellar visits are relatively straight forward, but the Pommery visit is punctuated by contemporary art installed throughout the tunnels and galleries as temporary exhibitions. This is an excellent tour for anyone visiting Champagne who knows little about the region, Champagne production, and even less about the crayères. It's an engaging visit that ends with a tasting.

Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims Arrow

This gothic cathedral in the heart of Reims is more than 800 year old, and was badly damaged during WWI. In fact, 80 percent of the city was razed around it, so it's no small feat that it still stands today (with the help of perpetual periods of renovation). It was once where the kings of France were crowned, and it was one of the first monuments listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tickets are required ($9), but can be purchased upon arrival. A visit inside is crucial to really getting a sense of its grandeur, as well as the history of Reims. 

Is it possible to see too many châteaus in one trip to France? We think not. So go to Chantilly and visit one that's manageable but opulent, and famed for its extraordinary garden, which is the work of famous French gardener Le Nôtre. Chantilly is also known for its horses. The aforementioned château has the largest stables in Europe, and the town's Chantilly Racecourse is a prevalent part of the local culture.

Le Hameau Arrow

If it looks like a rustic cabin in the middle of the Domaine de Chantilly's vast gardens, you've found the right place. The restaurant is located in a little house, and is only open for lunch and tea service from March to November. Hearty, traditional French food is on the menu, but the real star of the show is the thick whipped cream, the Domaine's namesake heritage product. Oui oui, la crème Chantilly refers to whipped cream from Chantilly, a heavenly and decadent variety you're unlikely to taste anywhere else.

Auberge du Jeu de Paume Arrow

It is an oasis in an already blissfully relaxing locale. With such close proximity to the Château de Chantilly , the stables, and the gardens, it is the perfect component to a countryside escape. Beyond the spacious and tasteful rooms, there's the Michelin-starred restaurant La Table du Connétable and the Valmont Spa, which includes a pool, sauna, and hammam. Guests will also find a billiard room, bar, and valet parking. Since the hotel is part of the Domaine de Chantilly, they have the keys to the château. As the most luxurious property in the area and given its relationship with the Domaine, you can't beat the location, calm, services, and dining experience.

La Table du Connetable Arrow

On the grounds of a vast park, this restaurant has developed a reputation for beautiful, terroir-driven cuisine emphasizing ingredients sourced from Chantilly and the extended region. Chef Anthony Denon took over the kitchens in early 2020; he’s worked alongside French culinary greats like Alain Ducasse, Christophe Saintagne, and Jean-François Piège, and his cooking shows technicality and finesse. For an outing at the horse races or a leisurely visit around the Château, the culinary experience here completes the visit. Go for a family lunch or a one-on-one dinner in the evening.

Château de Chantilly Arrow

With 115 hectares (285 acres) of land surrounding a Château in three different landscape styles—a French-style garden created by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century, an Anglo-Chinese Garden created in the 18th century, and the English Garden in the 19th century—you might say this is grand in design and scale. It's definitely on the manicured side of the continuum, but suitable for long walks. The French style garden offers incredible views, thanks to mirrored waters that produce reflections of the sky, fountains, and surrounding statues.

Musée Condé Arrow

Located inside the Château de Chantilly , the museum is effectively a series of rooms that housed the personal collection of the Duke of Aumale (Louis Philippe's son). Its art galleries boast the second largest collection of antique paintings after the Louvre (for real!), with a layout that remains unchanged since the 19th century. This museography sees paintings laid out at several levels, frame by frame according to format, with no chronological order. The Santuario room houses the major masterpieces owned by the Duke, like The Three Graces and The Madonna of the House of Orléans by Raphael. Other rooms focus on art history, portraiture, Italian artists, and tapestry. While many visitors visit the Château at the gardens, not everyone realizes the breadth and scale of the collection housed in the museum.

Spa Valmont, at Auberge du Jeu de Paume Arrow

On the lower level of the L'Auberge du Jeu de Paume in the heart of Chantilly, this spa excels in service, and you're guaranteed a recharging experience. Fans rave about the signature "Thousand & One Chantilly" treatment, a sweet, sensory journey that includes a full body exfoliating treatment, massage, and whipped cream body mask. After the treatment, there's a pool area for a hot tea and a verrine of fresh Chantilly (whipped cream from the property) with seasonal fruit. You can lounge, go for a dip, or slide into the hot tub to extend the experience.

Lille, which is on the French-Belgium border, is known for its Flemish influences and architecture and for being named the European Capital of Culture. The university town is an intellectual hub, full of coffee shops and cafés where you'll find residents and students in conversation. Vieux Lille, the city's old town, is a charming neighborhood of restored red brick buildings that have a totally different feel from Paris when you walk along them.

Clarance Hotel Lille Arrow

Through a courtyard and into an 18th-century former hôtel particulier , or private mansion, there's a stately feel to an arrival at Clarance. It's one of the only five-star boutique hotels in town and is affordable for the quality of the services and dining options available. Rooms are spacious and comfortable, and all decorated differently. La Table , the on-site restaurant, has a Michelin star, its chef Thibaut Gamba having worked with the likes of Pierre Gagnaire and Thomas Keller. The garden terrace is a wonderful spot for a drink when weather allows.

L'Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection Arrow

There's no mistaking you're in a converted, historic building: long before the Flemish gabled structure was Lille's first five-star hotel, it was a 15th century hospice. There's a massive stained glass window on the façade, an old hospice room still intact, and a 17th-century chapel. All of this sits alongside modern art, vast courtyards, a glass canopy, and a modern restaurant. Rooms are a mix of modern and a bit old fashioned: exposed wood beams, wood panels lining the walls around the bed, great light. There's fine dining in the red vaulted-ceiling restaurant, and it's considered some of the city's finest.

La Table Arrow

Inside the Clarance Hotel , La Table serves Michelin-starred food in 18th century surroundings. The food is seasonal and hearty, and the chef includes herbs foraged from the garden. Dishes may range from grilled langoustine served with salsify from Dries, fermented black garlic butter, and sage tempura, or Burgaud roasted duck atop stuffed Flanders cabbage. All of it beautifully plated and balanced in flavor (arguably what won the restaurant a Michelin star). The natural light the main dining room lets in is exquisite, but the other dining room is an all-wood library alcove set off in the back of the restaurant. It has an original spiral staircase that leads up to rows of books.

Le Bloempot Arrow

From a self-taught chef, the high level of modern Flemish cooking happening here draws increasingly discerning crowds. New York City loft meets Berlin beer garden meets French industrial zone: a vast space with heavy use of brick, rough-hewn wood, metallic beams, and massive open kitchen. It's laid-back and casual, welcoming and cool, a vibe that doesn't adequately prepare you for the high level, original cooking that lands on the plate. There’s a fixed menu called “Les yeux fermés,” a multi-course surprise with drink pairings, which shows off the bounty of the region. Sample dishes might include creamy pollack rillettes with bread chips, endive leaves and a jus de cuisson mousse; brined and grilled chicken with plump cauliflower; nettle sorbet with whole strawberries, strawberry chips, and yogurt mousse.

Aux Merveilleux de Fred Arrow

Take one look at the line snaking down the street, and you'll know you've come to the right place. And, as the name suggests, it's all about merveilleux here: an airy, layered meringue mound covered with sweet whipped cream and enveloped in a variety of coatings, from chocolate flakes to caramelized hazelnuts. All of the merveilleux are prepared in front of customers in a large open kitchen, and it's quite a sight to behold.

La Capsule Arrow

This is a destination for beer lovers. Since 2008, they've offered French and foreign craft beer brewers, on tap and by the bottle. There are always a rotating selection of 28 beers on tap and more than 100 options by the bottle. Don't want anything too hoppy? Into IPAs? There's something for everyone. Send your beer-loving friends and family members here for a taste of the best coming out of France and beyond. It's also in the heart of the old town, which means there are plenty of sights to take in before or after.

Méert Arrow

This shop and tea salon is visually arresting, with 18th and 19th century and Louis XVI decor , and many of its original bones. Even the façade dates to the first part of the 18th century. The rows of shelves and display cases full of cakes, waffles ( gaufres , the Méert signature), candies, and chocolates recall an old fashioned candy shop. The vanilla gaufre may be the house's signature, but any manner of other exquisite, perfectly prepared pastry are worth attention: financiers, éclairs, lemon tartelettes, Saint-Honoré, and another Lille specialty, the merveilleux. This place makes an impression inside and out.

Opéra de Lille Arrow

The original 18th-century opera house was destroyed by a fire, so its replacement dates to the early 1900s (officially opening to the public in 1923). Yet it still does a terrific job of transporting you to the past with its neo-classical flourishes. Today, it is one of the most prized architectural icons in the city. You can see operas, concerts, and contemporary dance performances—for the most part they're all original and locally produced. The primary audience is Northern French and Belgian, however, any fan of dance, opera, or music should stop in for a show to experience the space.

La Piscine - Musée d'Art et d'Industrie André Diligent Arrow

The Art and Industry museum in Roubaix, not far from Lille, is set inside the town's former Art Deco municipal pool. There are sculptures, paintings, ceramics, drawings, and more, all related to the textile industry. It's an atypical museum experience, but a fascinating look at northern France's artistic and industrial heritage. The central atrium with the solar stained glass and the water basin often hosts fashion shows, and there are often several temporary collections viewing simultaneously. The space itself is incredible and brings the pieces to life in a bold way. Overall: it's an Art Deco relic that has been preserved to honor the city's industrial and working class past. Good news when it comes to food, too. This isn't your average cafeteria food, it's Méert , the Roubaix outpost of the historic Lille pastry shop and tea salon.

Palais des Beaux Arts Arrow

This is one of the largest museums in all of France (also one of the first to be built, under Napoleon I), so expect grand and expansive collection halls. The collection highlights fine arts, modern art, and antiquities, with sculptures, paintings, drawings, and ceramics. All the heavy hitters are here: Raphael, Donatello, Van Dyck, Tissot, Jordaens, Rembrandt, Goya, El Greco, David, Corot, Courbet, Toulouse-Lautrec, Delacroix, Rubens, Rodin. It's an incredible and diverse array of works, with highlights like ancient mummies and Monet's painting of the Houses of Parliament in London.

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Day Trips From Paris

The 12 Best Day Trips From Paris

Once you've seen  Paris' most essential attractions , why not get out of the city for a day and find out what lies outside its limits? Several interesting and entertaining destinations, including chateaus, natural parks, and medieval fortifications, are within close reach of the city. These are some of the best day trips from Paris—scroll down to see which places outside the city walls made the list. And if it's worth it to reserve a car to get yourself around from one spot to another. Before you do rent one, know the  pros and cons of renting a car in Paris for some informed advice on the matter.

Versailles Palace and Gardens

No in-depth visit to Paris would be complete without a visit to the former seat of royal power at the Palais de Versailles . A symbol of the French monarchy and its dramatic downfall following the Revolution of 1789, the Chateau de Versailles was erected by the powerful "Sun King" Louis XIV, then later was home to the ill-fated Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, who were eventually executed. The palace, including the emblematic Hall of Mirrors, was recently renovated. Hordes of visitors throng on the palace every year.

In the spring, the palace's gardens are lush and idyllic, making it perfect for a long stroll or a picnic. Meanwhile, a visit to Queen Marie Antoinette's private quarters at Le Petit Trianon, her bucolic animal farm and cottage, can provide amusing and interesting additional perspectives on royal life at the palace.

Getting There:  Take the  RER C (commuter line train) from central Paris to the Versailles–Rive Gauche station; follow the signs to the chateau entrance.

When to Go:  Consider visiting in the early spring and fall, when crowds are a tad thinner than in the peak late spring and summer months.

Claude Monet's House and Gardens

An excursion to French impressionist painter  Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny is a must for those interested in art history—or for botanical enthusiasts, for that matter.

Open to the public since 1980, Monet's private gardens , immortalized in his brushstrokes, are a haven of green, shadows, and light, featuring elegant Japanese-style bridges, water lilies, and dozens of varieties of flowers and trees.

Getting There:  Giverny is a town at the edge of Normandy, about an hour from Paris. From the Gare Saint-Lazare train station, buy a ticket to Vernon. At Vernon, shuttle buses regularly offer direct service to Giverny (spring to autumn only; consult the official website  for a precise schedule).

When to Go: Try to go in April or May if you can; the blooms are dramatic and colorful and the weather is generally pleasant. Avoid wet days, however—this can ruin the fun, not to mention the photo opportunities.

Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica and the Royal Necropolis

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica is a marvelous medieval pilgrimage site and one of the earliest French example of high gothic architecture. You can find this site in the humble, working-class community of Saint-Denis just north of Paris, and it's easily accessible on Metro Line 13.

Many tourists overlook this astounding gem, which boasts a necropolis dedicated to the kings, queens, and other royal figures of French history. Come admire their melancholy, eerily beautiful recumbent effigies and see the mysterious crypt where the remains of the famed saint are said to have been buried. Joan of Arc is even said to have made a pilgrimage here; a plaque outside honors the famed French warrior.

Getting There: Take Line 13 of the Paris Metro to Saint-Denis; follow signs to Saint-Denis Cathedral Basilica. While it's best to avoid this area after dark, during the day it's perfectly safe.

When to Go: You can visit this site year-round, but choose a sunny day if possible to enjoy the beautiful light streaming through the stained glass and onto the effigies. This is an unforgettable sight.

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte

Chateau Vaux-le-Vicomte is a little-known 17th-century chateau east of Paris and is worth a visit, especially for history and literature buffs. Home to countless royal fetes and a place of inspiration for dramaturges including Molière and La Fontaine, Vaux-le-Vicomte today is often chosen as a setting for period-piece films, and some have even opined that it's more beautiful than Versailles.

Like its more famous counterpart—also designed by Le Notre—Vaux-le-Vicomte's luxuriant formal gardens and fountains can provide repose from the hectic cityscape.

Getting There:  Take the SNCF regional train from Gare de l'Est to Verneuil l'Etang (Line P); then take the Chateaubus shuttle, a free transportation service between the station and the Chateau. Alternatively, take the RER commuter train line D to Melun, then the Chateaubus.

When to Go:  Spring, summer, and early fall are best to appreciate the formal gardens at their finest.

Disneyland Paris Parks and Resort

If you're  visiting Paris with kids , a day or two at ​​ Disneyland Paris  parks and resort can be a treat—and it's only about an hour away from the city, which is easily accessible by the high-speed commuter train. The resort facilities, including a golf course, ​ Disney Village , and Davy Crockett Ranch bungalows, can provide adults with an amusing day away from the city grind, too.

Getting There: The easiest way to get there is to take the RER commuter train line A to Marne-la-Valleé/Chessy station from central Paris (Chatelet-les-Halles). The park entrance is right outside. Some prefer to drive; plenty of parking spaces are generally available but may be further away from the entrance than desired, especially during peak visiting months.

When to Go: Visit year-round, but you may prefer spring through mid-fall to avoid waiting outside in the cold in long lines. Some families love to go for Halloween and Christmas  when the park is decked out in thematic decor for the holiday season.

Fontainebleau Palace and Park

Steeped in centuries of royal history, the palace and surrounding forest of Fontainebleau  served as a seasonal home to French monarchs starting from the 13th century onward. An excursion here will sate both history and architecture buffs and nature-lovers, who will find miles of hiking trails in the historic park and forest around the palace. Barbizon, a town which has gained fame as the home of painters such as Millet, is nestled in the Fontainebleau forest and is also worth a detour.

Getting There:  Take the SNCF regional train line from the Paris Gare de Lyon train station to Fontainebleau​–Avon. Follow directions or your GPS to the chateau and/or forest entrances. Bring a picnic if you wish to enjoy a hike in the area.

When to Go:  Head here during all seasons, although some will find the cold in winter less pleasant. Aim for spring or summer to appreciate the gardens and their ornate landscaping fully. Avoid hiking on wet days when trails can be slippery or muddy, and always exercise caution.

Chartres Cathedral

Along with Notre Dame Cathedral , ​​the  Chartres Cathedral is France's most breathtaking cathedral—a true masterpiece that draws visitors from around the world to a rather sleepy town about an hour from Paris by train.

Built between around 1190 and 1220, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is considered a crowning achievement in high gothic architecture. It's been remarkably well-preserved and features dramatic flying buttresses, a breathtaking rose window, and delicate stained glass. The Chapel of Saint Piat resembles a castle from the Middle Ages, with its rounded turrets, and compared to most churches and cathedrals from the medieval period, Chartres has conserved much of its original design.

Getting There: There are more than 30 trains a day that run between Paris and Chartres, excluding some holidays. Take the regional line train from the Montparnasse station to Chartres; follow signs to the Cathedral or use your GPS to get there.

When to Go: Visit year-round, but as with the Saint-Denis Basilica, choose a sunny day to benefit from light coming through the stunning rose window and stained glass.

Proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2001, the fortified medieval town of Provins once hosted some of Europe's most extravagant fairs. Spices, silks, and other products were sold here, drawing visitors and merchants from across France and neighboring countries.

Built starting in the 11th century, this underappreciated gem of medieval history has inspired countless literary portrayals by authors including  Victor Hugo  and Balzac. Exploring the town's stunning stone fortifications and partaking in theatrical medieval shows and festivals there is definitely worth the trip.

Getting There:  Take the SNCF regional train from Gare de l'Est to Provins. The city is about an hour from Paris by train or car.

When to Go: Visit during the spring and summer, when fields of yellow flowers blossom all around the town and roses (a regional product of note) leave a lovely fragrance on the air. In the summer, medieval re-enactments and performances are fun for kids and adults, if a bit corny at times.

Mont-Saint-Michel

One of the most breathtaking natural and architectural sites in the world, the Abbey at Mont-Saint-Michel is further from Paris than the other places on the list—but the trip is well worth it. Towering over a bay that joins the regions of Normandy and Brittany, and whose dramatically changing ties create a poetic show of light and water few could forget, the rocky mount on which the abbey stands was first settled by an Irish hermit.

The Abbey and monastery that was built atop it starting in the 8th century are remarkably intact—one of the most impressive medieval sites in the world, with walled fortifications and winding streets leading to the church at the top. While it's almost purely a tourist site—very few "residents" actually inhabit it—it's a remarkable place. At high tide, the site is entirely surrounded by water; thanks to a new high-tech walkway, the Abbey is now accessible at all times, and previous dangers for visitors exploring the site have been reduced.

Getting There: There is no direct train to Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris, so many tourists prefer to drive. Parking is available near the Abbey; walk or take a free shuttle from the parking lot to the entrance. If you do opt to take the train, you can catch one from Paris' Montparnasse station to the city of Rennes, then take a bus called Keolis to the Abbey. The bus runs several times a day.

When to Go:  Head to this site year-round: the tides, sky, and light will be different during each season, each beautiful in its own way. Sunnier days allow you to fully appreciate the play of light on the sand and the dramatic contrast between the sea, sunlit water reflecting on the sand, and the imposing presence of the Abbey.

Cellars and Towns of Champagne

Situated a little over an hour from Paris by train or car, the prestigious region of Champagne beckons visitors for a decadent day away from the city.

Visit the elegant town of Reims , a medieval city whose underground chalk quarry networks are so impressive and extensive that they've been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Sip champagne in the cellars of some of the world's most famous producers, from Dom Perignon to Taittinger. Learn about the history of how this prized white wine was first produced, the prominent families who reign over the business, and how it's transformed the region into a powerhouse.

If you don't mind renting a car or taking a guided tour, you should also consider spending a few hours in the nearby village of Epernay , famous for its prestigious champagne cellars and elegant countryside. Dom Perignon and Mercier both have tasting rooms here. 

Getting There:  Renting a car is probably easiest so you can get around the region and its best cellars. You can also travel to Reims by train from Paris: SNCF regional and high-speed (TGV) trains leave almost every hour from the Gare de l'Est station.

When to Go:  A fall or winter visit to Champagne is something to consider. The vineyards often display beautiful foliage in the autumn, and a wintery getaway to cellars underground can be a cozy way to escape the rain.

Heading northward to the edge of the Belgian border, Lille is a humble but alluring city that attracts visitors for its unique Flemish heritage, attractive town center bustling with restaurants and shopping spots, and pretty architecture.

Hop on the train from Paris to see a French city that couldn't be more different from the capital's sometimes ostentatious vibe. On the old medieval square, admire tall, narrow Flemish-style buildings and the elegant opera house.

Visit the town's enormous, bustling flea market, and enjoy traditional Northern French and Flemish fare such as moules-frites (mussels and French fries) on a terrace somewhere. You should also spend some time at the Palais des Beaux-Arts,  which is a fine arts museum filled with masterpieces and lauded as one of the most beautiful buildings in France.

Getting There: The high-speed TGV or Eurostar train will take you from Paris Gare du Nord to Lille in a little over an hour.

When to Go:  The city is especially lovely in the spring and summer, but any time of year can be a charming time to visit. In the winter, spend more time at the Palais des Beaux-Arts; in the summer, enjoy outdoor meals in the old town and easy self-guided architecture strolls.

Last but certainly not least, a day-long or overnight stay in Burgundy is an ideal way to add a wine-themed trip to your Paris adventure. You might want to cheat a bit and extend this to a weekend getaway, though, to really take in the region and learn something about its history, architecture, and fine wines.

The old Duchy of Burgundy once reigned here, making the region truly distinctive since it was politically independent for much of France's history. In the medieval era, the Dukes of Burgundy were tremendously powerful; this is visible in the ornate, wealthy towns of Beaune, Dijon, and others in the region.

Beaune , symbolized by its elegant old hospices (hospital) graced with distinctive, glazed tiles and prestigious wine cellars, is a natural stop in the region. Also make sure to visit Dijon : one of the prettiest cities of France, this capital of mustard, pain d'épices (gingerbread), and lovely half-timbered houses is well worth a few hours to a day of exploration.

If time allows, make sure to venture into the vineyards to taste some of the finest local bounty. Companies offer wine tours that are affordable and accessible to many travelers. Other companies provide private tours that offer real local insight and access to some renowned cellars.

Getting There: Trains depart for Dijon and Beaune from Gare de Lyon in Paris several times a day, and the trip takes a little over two hours on high-speed trains. When traveling to Beaune via TGV, you will need to make a connection in Dijon.

When to Go:  The fall is a magnificent time to visit Burgundy as you can take part in ceremonial harvest celebrations and wine tastings. You can also witness gorgeous vineyards painted in autumn colors and admire fall light hitting old buildings in Dijon.

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