10 best trips from Paris by train

It's one of the world's most visited cities, so it should be no surprise that there are enough things to do in Paris to keep you busy for weeks. But if you want to see more of the French countryside — or take a quick trip over the border to another European country — these 10 best train trips from Paris are perfect for a daytime outing or weekend getaway.

Discover extraordinary French destinations, from châteaux to wineries, theme parks to cathedrals, on the best train trips from Paris.

Trips via train from Paris at a glance

Best destination for families: Versailles and Disneyland Paris

Best destination for couples: London and Chartres

Best destination for culture: Strasbourg and Brussels

Best destination for food: Lyon and Dijon

1. Versailles, Paris Region

Best for short day trips by train from Paris

Built in the 1600s, this historic palace served as the royal residence of King Louis XIV and other French monarchs. Visitors can tour the Palace of Versailles and then wander the expansive grounds for the afternoon before catching the train back to Paris. If you're traveling between April 1st and October 31st, be sure to see the Musical Fountains Show, where the garden's 55 fountains and 600 water features come alive to the strains of Handel and other Baroque composers.

Getting there

Take an RER C train to Rive Gauche Station from central Paris. It's a 40-minute train ride and a 10-minute walk from the station. Read this comprehensive guide to visiting the Palace of Versailles for other ways to get there.

2. Disneyland Paris, Marne-la-Vallée

Best for day trips from Paris with kids

Disneyland Paris includes two parks—Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park—multiple hotels and other entertainment options. If you want to see and do everything, plan to stay for at least two days.

Getting there

Take the RER A train from Gare de Lyon to Marne-La-Vallée Chessy. It takes about 40 minutes to get to Disneyland Paris.

3. Chartres, Loire Valley

Best for romantic getaways from Paris

Small enough to see in a day but with enough hidden gems to warrant lingering, Chartres is one of the best day trips via train from Paris. Wander the medieval streets by day and enjoy a romantic stroll along the Eure River in the evening.

Getting there

It takes a little over 1 hour to get from Gare Montparnasse to Chartres on a TER train.

4. Reims, Marne

Best for French history and culture

Reims was a tribal capital during the time of the Roman Empire. Now, it's home to major champagne brands like Veuve Clicquot. Take a tour of a winery or champagne cellar to learn more about this world-famous regional export.

Getting there

Take the TGV from Gare de l'Est to Champagne-Ardenne and then transfer to a tram or TER to Reims. The entire trip takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes, making it one of the best day trips from Paris by train.

5. Dijon, Burgundy

Best for wine enthusiasts

Dijon has notable attractions like the Ducal Palace and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, but Burgundy is also a great region to explore by bike. Book a bike tour from Dijon to explore the countryside and try some of its famous food and drink.

Getting there

Dijon is an easy 1.5 hours by train from Gare de Lyon.

6. Tours, Loire Valley

Best for exploring châteaux

Roam the medieval district to see half-timbered houses from the Middle Ages or go on a wine-tasting tour of the Loire Valley. Its central location makes Tours one of the best day trips from Paris by train or a stopping point on a weekend getaway from Paris.

Getting there

Ride the TGV from Gare Montparnasse to Tours, which takes about an hour and a half.

7. Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

Best for a culinary adventure

Start with a walking tour of Lyon and see the Old Town, the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and the Musée des Confluences, where the Rivers Rhône and Saône meet. Then, book a dinner or lunch cruise to sample Lyonnaise cuisine on the river and see what French cooking is truly all about.

Getting there

Depart from Gare de Lyon and arrive 2 hours later on one of the best day trips by train from Paris.

8. Strasbourg, Alsace

Best for scenic train trips from Paris

The historic center of Strasbourg is an island, Grande Île, and home to many architectural gems, including the 11th–15th-century Cathedral of Notre-Dame, making it a picturesque area to view by street or canal. Strasbourg is also the seat of the European Parliament, which you can visit on a bike or a walking tour. Then, visit a brasserie to try regional specialties like flammkuchen (or tarte flambée), a type of flatbread often topped with creme fraiche, bacon, and onion.

Getting there

The train to Strasbourg leaves from Gare de l'Est and arrives in a little under 2 hours. It's one of the most scenic weekend trips by train from Paris.

9. Brussels, Belgium

Best for day trips by train from Paris

Many visitors come to Brussels to try Belgian fries or beer or to attend a chocolate tour or workshop. Brussels is also home to museums and exhibitions like the Atomium — considered Belgium's Eiffel Tower — and the House of European History, making it a premier cultural destination in Europe.

Getting there

Take a 1-hour, 20-minute train ride from Gare du Nord to Bruxelles-Midi train station.

10. London, United Kingdom

Best for weekend trips by train from Paris

On a day trip to London, you can visit top attractions like the London Eye, but plan to spend at least a few days to make the most of your visit. London's best cultural attractions include the Globe Theatre, the British Museum, and the Tower of London.

Getting there

Book the Eurostar from Gare du Nord to St. Pancras. The trip takes just 2 hours and 18 minutes, but arrive early since you'll go through customs before departure.

FAQs: Train trips from Paris

Generated with the help of AI

What cities are a short train ride from Paris?

Several charming destinations are easily accessible from Paris by train. Visit Giverny to explore Claude Monet's garden and home, or head to Versailles to see the famous palace. Chantilly offers a stunning château and gardens, while Vaux-le-Vicomte is known for its baroque architecture. History enthusiasts can explore the Normandy beaches or the medieval town of Provins. Fontainebleau boasts a beautiful royal château, and Rouen is rich in history with its Gothic cathedral and medieval quarter. Each offers a unique day trip experience.

Where does the high-speed train travel from Paris?

The TGV high-speed train connects Paris with numerous destinations across France and beyond. You can journey to the sunny Mediterranean coast, explore the vineyards of the Loire Valley, or visit vibrant cities like Bordeaux, Lyon, and Marseille. For film enthusiasts, a trip to Cannes is also possible.

Which countries are easily reachable from Paris by train?

Travelers can easily reach several countries from Paris by train. Amsterdam in the Netherlands is just 3 hours and 30 minutes away. In Switzerland, Geneva is 3 hours and 15 minutes away, while Lausanne is a 4-hour journey. The Swiss capital, Berne, is accessible in 5 hours. These cities offer diverse cultural experiences and are perfect for a quick international getaway.

What destinations can be combined with a trip to Paris?

Paris is a great starting point for exploring nearby European capitals. Consider visiting Brussels, Amsterdam, or London, all easily accessible by train. These cities offer diverse cultural experiences and are perfect for extending your European adventure.

What are some scenic train routes departing from Paris?

Travelers can enjoy picturesque journeys from Paris to destinations like Strasbourg, which offers views of the charming Alsace countryside. The route to Geneva provides stunning vistas of the French Alps. Another scenic option is the journey to the Loire Valley, where passengers can admire the rolling vineyards and historic châteaux. These routes offer a delightful way to experience the diverse landscapes of France while traveling by train.