Paris is undoubtedly one of the most charming cities in the world, with its romantic streets, iconic landmarks, and vibrant culture. But sometimes, even the most ardent Parisians need a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Luckily, many charming towns and cities are just a short distance from Paris, making it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding areas. In this article, we will explore some of the best weekend trips from Paris, both by train and car.

1. Reims

Located just 45 minutes by train from Paris, Reims is the capital of the Champagne region and is famous for its impressive cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is an excellent example of Gothic architecture and has played a significant role in French history, serving as the traditional site for the coronation of French kings. The town also boasts many champagne houses, where visitors can learn about the production process and sample some of the world’s most famous sparkling wines.

How to Travel from Paris to Reims by Train

On the Paris to Reims route, the typical train ride duration is 1 hour and 20 minutes. However, the fastest TGV INOUI services can complete the journey in 39 minutes. There are roughly 20 trains that run daily between the two cities, with 12 of them being direct trains.

How to Travel from Paris to Reims by Bus

Several bus companies offer services between Paris and Reims, including FlixBus, BlaBlaBus, and Ouibus. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the bus company and the time of day.

Bus companies 

Several bus companies operate services between Paris and Reims, including:

FlixBus: FlixBus is a popular bus company offering affordable and comfortable European services. They operate multiple daily services between Paris and Reims, with prices starting from around €6.

BlaBlaBus: BlaBlaBus is a French bus company that offers budget-friendly services across France and Europe. They have several daily services between Paris and Reims, with prices starting from around €5.

Ouibus: Ouibus is another popular bus company operating in France and Europe. They have several daily services between Paris and Reims, with prices starting from around €5.

Isilines: Isilines is a French bus company that offers affordable and reliable services throughout France. They have several daily services between Paris and Reims, with prices starting from around €5.

Eurolines: Eurolines is a popular international bus company that offers services across Europe. They have several daily services between Paris and Reims, with prices starting from around €8.

2. Rouen

Located around 130 kilometers northwest of Paris, Rouen is a charming town famous for its Gothic architecture, cobbled streets, and rich history. The town’s most famous landmark is the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen, which Claude Monet famously painted. Other notable attractions include the Gros Horloge, a 14th-century astronomical clock, and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which houses an impressive art collection.

How to Travel from Paris to Rouen by Train

A direct train is available for the Paris to Reims route, with approximately 20 direct trains running each weekday. However, there are typically fewer trains on weekends, with around 13 departures found.

How to Travel from Paris to Rouen by Bus

Several bus companies operate between Paris and Rouen, including FlixBus, Ouibus, and BlaBlaBus. You can compare prices and schedules online to find the best option.

Book your ticket: Once you have chosen a bus company, book your ticket in advance to ensure availability and avoid any last-minute price hikes. You can book your ticket online, through the bus company’s app, or at a ticket office.

3. Chartres

Chartres is a small town located around 90 kilometers southwest of Paris and is famous for its stunning cathedral. The Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture. The town also boasts many charming streets and shops, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend away from the city and one of the best paris photography locations.

How to Travel from Paris to Chartres by Train

Traveling best weekend trips from Paris to Chartres by train is a popular and convenient option for those who want to visit Chartres, famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral and medieval old town.

Several train companies operate between Paris and Chartres, including SNCF and TER. You can compare prices and schedules online to find the best option.

How to Travel from Paris to Chartres by Bus

Traveling from Paris to Chartres by bus is also a viable option for those looking for a more affordable mode of transportation.

Several bus companies operate services between Paris and Chartres, including Flixbus, Ouibus, and Isilines. Check their schedules and prices online to find the best option.

4. Giverny

Located just 80 kilometers northwest of Paris, Giverny is a small village famous for being the home of the Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Visitors can visit Monet’s former home and gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works, including his Water Lilies series. The village is also known for its charming streets and restaurants, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend away from the city.

How to Travel from Paris to Giverny by Train

Step 1: take the metro to Paris Saint-Lazare station. Step 2: take the train from Paris Saint Lazare station to Vernon, a small but pleasant town worth a shot at. Step 3: When in Vernon, a shuttle is waiting for you in front of the station to go to Monet’s place at Giverny.

How to Travel from Paris to Giverny by Bus

Giverny is a picturesque Normandy village located approximately 80 km northwest of Paris. It is famous for being the home of the renowned impressionist painter Claude Monet. If you want to travel from Paris to Giverny by bus

Several bus companies operate between Paris and Giverny, including Keolis Eure, Cars Bleus, and Vernon Bus. Check their schedules and prices online to find the best option.

5. Deauville

Located around 200 kilometers northwest of Paris, Deauville is a charming seaside resort town famous for its beach and elegant architecture. The town’s most famous landmark is the Les Planches boardwalk, lined with colorful beach huts and a great place to people-watch. The town also boasts many restaurants and shops, making it an ideal destination for a weekend away from the city.

How to Travel from Paris to Deauville by Train

How to Travel It is possible to travel best weekend trips from Paris to Deauville without changing trains. There are four direct trains from Paris to Deauville each day. However, fewer direct services may be available depending on your departure date.

Paris to Deauville by Bus

Deauville is a charming seaside resort town in the Normandy region of France, approximately 200 km northwest of Paris. If you want to travel best weekend trips from Paris to Deauville by bus

Choose a bus company: Several bus companies operate services between Paris and Deauville, including FlixBus, Ouibus, and Isilines. Check their schedules and prices online to find the best option.

6. Chantilly

Located 50 kilometers north of Paris, Chantilly is a charming town famous for its castle and racecourse. The Château de Chantilly is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture and is home to a museum dedicated to the horse and an impressive art collection. The town is also famous for its whipped cream, allegedly invented there, and is an ideal destination for a relaxing weekend away from the city.

How to Travel from Paris to Chantilly by Train

Here are the steps to travel from Paris to Chantilly by train:

1. Go to the Gare du Nord train station in central Paris. This is one of the major train stations in Paris that offers regional train service to Chantilly. You can get there by taking the metro – the nearest metro stations are Gare du Nord and La Chapelle.

2. At Gare du Nord, locate the ticket counter or ticket machines for the TER Hauts-de-France regional train service. Buy a one-way ticket from Paris (Zone 1) to Chantilly-Gouvieux (Zone 6). The fare is around 10 Euros.

3. Find the departure track for trains headed to Creil, Senlis, or Chantilly. The trains depart about 2-3 times per hour, especially during peak hours. The travel time is around 25-35 minutes, depending on the train.

4. Get off at the Chantilly-Gouvieux station, the end of the line. This small station is located right in the center of Chantilly, only a 5-minute walk from the Chantilly Castle and racecourse.

5. Exit the Chantilly-Gouvieux train station, turn right, and walk down Avenue du Maréchal Joffre. You will see the Domaine de Chantilly estate entrance and castle on your left. The ticket office is just past the gate.

6. To return to Paris, buy a ticket at the Chantilly-Gouvieux train station for a TER train back to Paris Gare du Nord. Trains depart about 2-3 times per hour in the afternoon and evening for the return trip to Paris.

How to Travel from Paris to Chantilly by Bus

Here are the steps to travel from Paris to Chantilly by bus:

1. Go to the Gare du Nord bus station in central Paris. This is the main intercity bus station and is next to the Gare du Nord train station. You can get there by taking the metro – the nearest metro stations are Gare du Nord and La Chapelle.

2. At the Gare du Nord bus station, locate the departure gate for Oise Bus bus number 15. This bus goes directly to Chantilly. The bus station gates are well-marked with the destinations, so you should be able to find Gate 15 easily.

3. Buy a ticket for bus number 15 from the ticket counter or ticket machines at the departure gate. A one-way fare to Chantilly costs around 7-8 Euros. The bus accepts cash as well as credit/debit cards. 

4. Board bus 15 and take a seat. The bus ride will take 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. The bus will stop at the Chantilly Bus Station, which is located in the center of town.

5. Get off at the Chantilly Bus Station stop. You can then explore the Chantilly Castle, go horse riding in Chantilly Forest, or simply stroll around the quaint town.

6. To return to Paris from Chantilly, buy a ticket and board bus 15 again at the Chantilly Bus Station. The buses run until late evening, so you can enjoy exploring Chantilly before heading back to Paris.

7. Normandy

Normandy is a perfect destination for history buffs and foodies alike. The region is famous for its beaches, museums, and delicious local cuisine. You can easily get to Normandy from Paris by train or car in about 2-3 hours.

One of the most popular destinations in Normandy is the city of Rouen, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. You can visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Gros Horloge clock, and the Joan of Arc Museum, among other attractions.

Another must-see destination in Normandy is the city of Caen, home to the iconic Château de Caen and the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, a beautiful Romanesque abbey. The city is also known for its excellent local cuisines, such as the famous Norman apple tart and cider.

If you’re a history buff, you can’t miss visiting the D-Day landing beaches in Normandy. You can explore the famous Omaha Beach and visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, where thousands of American soldiers who died during the D-Day landings are buried.

How to Travel from Paris to Normandy by Train

To travel best weekend trips from Paris to Normandy, you must take a train from Gare Saint-Lazare station in Paris to Bayeux. Some trains may require a transfer at Caen, so not all trips are direct. You should book seats in advance on one of the seven daily trains through SNCF. A round-trip fare for this journey will be around 82 euros.

How to Travel from Paris to Normandy by Bus

Bus services depart from Porte des Ternes station and arrive at the Hôtel de Ville station via Paris – Pont de Levallois and Gares Fratacci. The total travel time for this journey, including any transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes.

8. Champagne

Champagne is another popular weekend destination in Paris, especially for wine lovers. The region is famous for its sparkling wine, produced in the traditional method passed down for centuries.

The main city in the Champagne region is Reims, home to the famous Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also visit some famous Champagne houses, such as Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger, and learn about the process of making Champagne.

Another popular destination in Champagne is the city of Épernay, known for its Avenue de Champagne, a street lined with grand Champagne houses. You can visit the famous Moët & Chandon and learn about the history of the Champagne region.

How to Travel from Paris to Champagne by Train

The average travel time from Paris to Champagne-Ardenne TGV by train is 1 hour and 54 minutes, covering a distance of around 79 miles or 127 kilometers. There are typically 16 trains per day running from Paris to Champagne-Ardenne TGV. Ticket fares for this trip start at €18 when booked in advance.

How to Travel from Paris to Champagne by Bus

There are no direct bus services from Paris to Champagne. However, buses depart from Paris – Bercy Seine station and arrive in Champagne, collège via Geneve, Gare Routiere and Yverdon-les-Bains train station. The total travel time for this journey, including transfers, is approximately 10 hours and 25 minutes. 

Though there are no direct buses, connections can be made between a few towns and cities along the route to reach the final destination of Champagne. Multiple transfers and a lengthy travel time are required for this bus trip. Travel best weekend trips from Paris to Champagne by Car

9. Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a stunning central France region known for its picturesque countryside, grand châteaux, and excellent wine. You can easily get to the Loire Valley from Paris by train or car in about 1-2 hours.

One of the most popular destinations in the Loire Valley is the city of Tours, known for its beautiful medieval architecture and rich history. You can visit the famous Château de Chenonceau, the Château de Villandry, and the Cathédrale Saint-Gatien, among other attractions.

Another must-see destination in the Loire Valley is the city of Nantes, home to the famous Château des Ducs de Bretagne and the Musée d’histoire de Nantes. You can also explore the beautiful Jardin des Plantes and taste some excellent local wine.

How to Travel from Paris to Loire Valley by Train

Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport will be your point of entry into France. Proceed to the “Train de Grande Vitesse” (TGV) train station in Terminal 2 of the airport. High-speed TGV trains will transport you to the Loire Valley region in 1.5 hours. Take a TGV train to Angers St Laud or Tours Saint Pierres-des-Corps station. 

From Paris CDG airport, TGV rail connections provide a fast 1.5-hour ride to the Loire Valley, with stations at Angers St Laud or Tours Saint Pierres-des-Corps to reach your destination. The TGV station is situated within the airport terminal, making it convenient to continue your journey by train after arriving in Paris.

How to Travel from Paris to Loire Valley by Bus

Travel from your hotel in Paris to the Gallieni Bus Station (Paris Gallieni). This is the main bus station for long-distance and international bus routes from Paris. It is located in Bagnolet, about 5 km from central Paris. 

At Paris Gallieni station, look for bus companies offering service to the Loire Valley region, such as Ouibus, Eurolines, Ouicar, or Megabus. These bus companies operate routes to towns like Tours, Angers, Saumur, and Amboise in the Loire Valley. 

Purchase your bus ticket on the bus company’s website to save time. Fares start around 15-25 euros for a one-way trip.

10. Burgundy

Burgundy is a beautiful region in eastern France, known for its excellent wine, stunning countryside, and rich history. You can easily get to Burgundy from Paris by train or car in about 2-3 hours.

One of the most popular destinations in Burgundy is the city of Dijon, known for its beautiful medieval architecture and excellent local cuisine. You can visit the famous Palais des Ducs de Bourgogne and the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon and taste some famous local mustard.

Another must-see destination in Burgundy is the city of Beaune, known for its famous Hôtel-Dieu and the Hospices de Beaune, two of France’s most beautiful medieval buildings. You can also visit some famous Burgundy wineries and taste some of the world’s best wine.

How to Travel from Paris to Burgundy by Train

Travel to one of the major train stations in Paris – Gare de Lyon, Gare Montparnasse or Gare de l’Est. These stations offer service to destinations in Burgundy. 

Check the departures board or ticket vending machines at the train station to locate trains traveling to your Burgundy destination. Some options include:

Paris to Dijon: Depart from Paris, and arrive at Dijon main station in 2 to 3 hours. High-speed TGV trains are available. 

• Paris to Beaune: Depart from Paris, and arrive at Beaune train station in 2.5 to 4 hours with one or more transfers or connections. 

• Paris to Mâcon: Depart from Paris, and arrive at Mâcon train station in 4 to 5 hours including connections. 

Purchase your train ticket in advance on the SNCF website or mobile app to save time. Fares start around 30-70 euros each way, depending on the season and train. 

How to Travel from Paris to Burgundy by Bus

Here are the steps to travel from Paris to Burgundy region by bus:

1. Travel from your hotel in Paris to the Gallieni Bus Station (Paris Gallieni), located in Bagnolet, about 5 km from central Paris. This is the main bus station for long-distance bus routes departing from Paris. 

2. At the bus station, search for bus companies operating routes from Paris to destinations in Burgundy, such as Ouibus, Eurolines, Ouicar, or Megabus. Towns you can reach include Dijon, Beaune, Chalon-sur-Saone, etc. 

3. To save time, buy your bus ticket in advance on the bus company’s website or mobile app. Fares start around 15-25 euros per one-way trip.

4. On the day of travel, arrive at Paris Gallieni station at least 30-45 minutes before your bus departure. Look for signs directing you to your bus platform. 

5. Sit back and enjoy the 4 to 7-hour ride to Burgundy (depending on your destination) with one or more stops. Appreciate the countryside scenery. 

Best YouTube Guides Channels for Travelling Paris

• The Culture Trip: This channel covers all aspects of culture and travels worldwide, including Paris and its nearby destinations. Their videos feature informative guides, beautiful footage, and insider tips.

• Rick Steves Europe: Known for his comprehensive travel guides, Rick Steves offers numerous videos about Paris and the surrounding regions. His videos are informative and practical and offer many insights into local culture and customs.

• Expedia: This popular travel website also has its own YouTube channel, which offers comprehensive travel guides and tips for Paris and other destinations. Their videos feature useful information about accommodations, attractions, and local transportation.

• Vagabrothers: This travel vlogging channel features the adventures of two brothers who travel the world and explore different cultures. They have videos about Paris and nearby destinations, offering unique perspectives and fun insights.

• Sonia’s Travels: Sonia Gil is a travel blogger and influencer who shares her experiences and insights about Paris and other destinations. Her videos offer practical tips, beautiful footage, and plenty of inspiration for travelers.

• Lost LeBlanc: This travel vlogger offers a unique perspective on travel, focusing on adventure and immersive experiences. His videos about Paris and nearby destinations feature beautiful footage, practical tips, and plenty of excitement.

• The Endless Adventure: This travel vlogging channel features the adventures of a couple who travel the world and share their experiences and insights. Their videos about Paris and nearby destinations offer useful information, practical tips, and fun.

• Samuel and Audrey – Travel and Food Videos: This channel features the adventures of a couple who loves traveling and exploring different cultures. Their videos about Paris and nearby regions offer beautiful footage, practical tips, and insights into local culture and customs.

• Kara and Nate: This popular travel vlogging channel features the adventures of a couple who travel the world and share their experiences and insights. Their videos about Paris and nearby destinations offer practical tips, beautiful footage, and plenty of inspiration for travelers.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Paris is not only a fantastic city to explore, but it also offers many opportunities for travelers looking to venture out and explore the surrounding areas. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, there are plenty of options for best weekend trips from Paris.

From the charming villages of Chantilly and Barbizon to the historic city of Reims and the breathtaking landscapes of Normandy, the possibilities are endless. Whether you prefer to travel by train or car, plenty of options are available to suit your needs and preferences.

By taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Paris and exploring the surrounding areas, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s culture, history, and beauty. So why not plan your next best weekend trips from Paris and discover what this incredible city and its surroundings offer?