21 Perfect Weekend Getaways from Paris
There’s no doubt about it, Paris is one of the most beautiful, romantic and inspiring cities in the world.
But sometimes, even the most die-hard city-slickers need to get away from the hustle and bustle for a weekend of rest and relaxation.
Luckily, Paris is perfectly placed for some amazing weekend getaways.
Here are 37 of the best weekend trips from Paris, whether you’re looking for culture, countryside, beach or city breaks.
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Weekend trips from Paris by Car
France is a very drivable country and filled with many beautiful European road trips.
Many of the best weekend getaways from Paris are accessible via car within 3 hours (or less).
1. Chartres
Just under a 2-hour drive from Paris, the charmingly narrow streets of Chartres open out onto wide open squares.
This city is best known for its impressively well-preserved cathedral, Notre-Dame de Chartres Cathedral.
This is one of the best examples of French Gothic architecture, and the stained glass windows and sculptures are particularly stunning.
Make sure you visit the International Stained-Glass Centre, the Fine Arts Museum in the former bishop’s palace, and the Agriculture Museum. For something really unique, try Picassiette House – a house decorated entirely with mosaics made from broken china plates.
Other highlights include the Frescoes of Bel Air district and a historic district with picturesque streets and half-timbered houses.
If you’re looking for a weekend of culture, history and architecture, Chartres is the perfect weekend trip from Paris.
Region: Centre-Val de Loire region
Distance: 92 kilometers
Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Best Time to Visit: April – June, September – October
2. Deauville
A chic and sophisticated resort town on the Normandy coast, Deauville is the perfect place for a relaxed weekend away from Paris.
The golden sandy beaches and beautiful boardwalk are perfect for lazy days spent sunbathing, swimming and people-watching.
If you’re feeling a little more energetic, there are plenty of activities on offer, including sailing from the Deauville Yacht Club, golfing, horse riding and tennis.
Deauville is also well known for its casinos – so if you’re feeling lucky, head to the Casino Barrière de Deauville for a spot of gambling.
Make sure you visit the pretty Marina and take a walk around Trouville-sur-Mer, a pretty fishing village with a large sandy beach.
Region: Normandy region
Distance: 214 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
Best Time to Visit: June – September
3. Le Havre
A port city situated on the right bank of the estuary of the river Seine, Le Havre is the perfect place for a weekend away if you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Paris.
The city has a rich history and was one of the key points of departure for European migrants heading to America in the 19th century.
Today, Le Havre is best known for its impressively large arts centre and theatre, nicknamed the ‘Volcano’.
Other highlights include the St Joseph’s Church, with its 107m-high tower containing 12,768 panes of coloured glass, and the Perret Show Flat – a recreation of an apartment designed by French architect Auguste Perret to help rehouse those made homeless during World War II.
Make sure you visit the hanging gardens, built on an old 19th century Napoleonic fort and boasting panoramic views of the sea and port.
Region: Normandy region
Distance: 197 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Best Time to Visit: June – September
4. Normandy
Located about 2.5 hrs from Paris, Normandy offers incredible history, rugged coastline, and old cities.
Most well known for its World War 2 history, Normandy has plenty more to see as well.
One of the most incredible sights in the city of Caen and Bayeux.
Visitors should be sure to spend time wandering the old Norman castle Château de Caen, built by William the Conqueror.
Caen also makes a great central place to stay for visitors within distance of many of the place sites in the area.
In nearby Bayeux, visitors should not miss the Bayeux Tapestry, considered one of the oldest forms of Propaganda detailing the conquests of William.
Visitors to Normandy should spend time exploring World War 2 History.
The various D-Day beaches are particularly worth visiting, as well as the cemeteries of the various allied troops.
One of the most interesting sites is the Musée du Débarquement, which traces the history of engineering of the invasion planning such as building harbors and airstrips for troop movement.
On the return visitors can visit either Giverny to view the inspiration for Monet’s water lilies or Honfleur the beautiful port city at the mouth of the Seine.
Normandy is best visited from Spring until Autumn for the best weather.
Certain WW2 and D-Day anniversaries can be particularly busy and expensive to visit.
Region: Normandy
Distance: 185 kilometers
Travel Time: 3 hours
Best Time to Visit: May to October
5. Rouen
Paul D’Souza, Paulmarina
Rouen is an often underestimated city in Northern France. It’s the regional capital of Normandy, a region rich in history and culture.
The city has much to offer and visitors from all over the world will appreciate the authenticity of this place.
The colorful traditional local buildings turn this city into a fairy tale dream. Most of the buildings were not destroyed during WW2, and therefore the architecture is rather unique in northern France.
Administrative buildings in the old town received the full force of the allied attack, with bullet wholes and crumbled facades still documenting how the local population was freed.
The medieval cathedral of Rouen is one of the most prestigious architectural wonders of France situated right at the center of the city.
The Grande Horloge is a large unique time piece located in the pedestrian zone, which can’t be missed.
The city is also mainly known for the freedom fighter Joan of Arc, who was burned in this historical city.
A memorial and the Dojon where she was kept can be visited. Enjoy some local food and drink specialties when in Rouen.
Calvados, an apple brandy, and the heart shaped Neufchatel cheese are local Norman specialties. More amazing attractions await you in Rouen Normandy.
Region: Normandy
Distance: 136 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours
Best Time to Visit: May to October
6. Versailles
No list of weekend getaways from Paris would be complete without a mention of Versailles. Just a short drive from the city, this former royal residence is one of the most popular tourist destinations in France.
One of the main reasons visitors travel to Versailles from Paris is to see the famous Château de Versailles including the beautiful Gardens, the outstanding Palace (don’t forget the Hall of mirrors), Petit Trianon and the Grand Trianon.
Of course, Versailles has more to offer than the Palace. Visit the market and stock up on some deliecious french food to enjoy by the Grand Canal and there is also the beautiful Notre-Dame (not the one in Paris!!)
Region: Île-de-France
Distance: 24 kilometers
Travel Time: 45 minutes
Best Time to Visit: May to October
Weekend trips from Paris by Train
What better way to begin a weekend getaway than boarding a train and watching the world go by as your relax on your way away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Here are some of the best weekend trips from Paris that are easily reached by train:
1. Amboise
Just a short train journey from Paris, Amboise is located in the stunning Loire Valley and perfect for a weekend getaway from Paris.
The Château Royal d’Amboise sits atop a steep hill high above the town, and is the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.
There’s also a fabulous farmers market – Marché Dominical d’Amboise – open every Friday and Sunday from 8am – 1:30pm, right on the banks of the royal river.
Les Caves Ambacia dates back to the 15th century when Louis XI tasted the delicious wine produced in the local vineyard on a visit to the royal château at Amboise.
Today, the caves are open to the public for wine tastings, and there’s also a lovely restaurant onsite serving traditional French cuisine.
Region: Centre-Val de Loire
Distance: 191 kilometers
Travel Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Best Time to Visit: May to October
2. Amsterdam
Melissa, Parenthood and Passports
Amsterdam is an easy and ideal weekend getaway from Paris.
Not only is it accessible from Paris by high-speed rail in just over 3 hours, but the beautiful canal city is filled with interesting museums and fun things to do.
Two or three days in Amsterdam is plenty of time to see the main attractions in the city, and even visit a windmill village or the nearby tulip fields in spring.
Known for its picturesque canals lined with narrow gingerbread-style houses and a lively, inclusive atmosphere, you’ll want to spend some time simply wandering the streets to take in the beauty and feel of the city.
For quintessential Amsterdam views, head to the Jordaan District, one of the most beloved areas of the city, and board a canal cruise.
Afterward, grab a stroopwafel or enjoy some Dutch Pancakes at The Pancake Bakery, and then head to The Anne Frank House, one of the most famous museums in Amsterdam.
Tour the Royal Palace and take in the sites and sounds at Dam Square, then wander through the infamous Red Light District, if your curiosity peaks.
Although the district may be known as a place where certain activities are legal that are illegal elsewhere, it is also the oldest area of Amsterdam and is lovely during the daytime hours.
You’ll also want to spend a day in the Museum District and nearby Vondelpark.
The district is home to the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum.
But if art museums are not your style, walk a short distance to the Heineken Experience, where you can tour the original brewery of the now world-renowned beer company.
Region: Flemish Region
Distance: 300 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours
Best Time to Visit: April – June, September – October
3. Antwerp
Laura, Travelers Universe
Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium and one of the most important ports in Europe.
It combines tradition with modern elements and that made it a benchmark city in terms of design, nightlife and multicultural fusion.
Like all Flemish cities, Antwerp has its own Market Square dominated by the outstanding Town Hall, a spectacular building in Renaissance-style.
The Cathedral of Our Lady is also a must visit as it is probably the largest and most beautiful religious building in Belgium.
It took nearly 170 years to build this Gothic marvel, whose spire reaches 123 meters high. Its bell tower is part of a group of towers included in the World Heritage Site.
On top of the above, Antwerp also has the most beautiful restaurant in the world: Jane.
This place was awarded as such by the Restaurant and Bar Design Awards in 2015 and has two Michelin stars.
Dining here is one of the most unique things you can do in Antwerp.
From Paris, the fastest way to get to Antwerp is by train. In just 2 hours, you will arrive at the Central Train Station, which stands out for its beautiful Neo-Gothic facade and its enormous dome.
Region: Flemish Region
Distance: 300 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours
Best Time to Visit: April – June, September – October
4. Avignon
Lisa, Waves and Cobblestones
Avignon is one of the best places to visit from Paris. It’s less than a three-hour journey via high speed train, and there are many fantastic things to do in Avignon to suit any interest.
Avignon is one of the most historically important cities in France. It was the home to the papacy in the 14th century.
Visitors can tour the Palais des Papes, where the popes lived in splendor during this time. This medieval Gothic building is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Be sure to check out the nearby Pont Saint-Bénézet, more commonly known as the Pont D’Avignon of nursery rhyme fame.
Avignon has a huge theater scene, with performances occurring year-round. July brings the Festival D’Avignon, a celebration of the performing arts.
Festival performances are held in theaters throughout Avignon, including in the Court of Honor of the papal palace.
Overall, summertime is the best time to visit Avignon for its many festivals and great weather.
For a casual bite or picnic supplies, stop by Les Halles D’Avignon to pick up fresh produce and prepared dishes.
Don’t miss the north façade of the market — its ‘green wall’ is a work of art made from plants.
For a memorable sit-down meal, sample the delectable Modern French offerings at Le Vintage, located in the heart of Avignon.
Region: Provence–Alpes–Côte d’Azur
Distance: 700 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours and forty five minutes
Best Time to Visit: June – September
5. Bayeux
Just over two and a half hours west of Paris by train, Bayeux is a perfect weekend getaway from Paris.
Bayeux is well known to many around the world whether they have visited the town or not thanks to the Bayeux tapestry which dates back to 1066. The tapestry, which is 70 metres long, depicts the Norman conquest of England.
As Bayeux was one of the first towns to be liberated during World War II it was saved from most of the bombing and as such is one of the best preserved towns.
The town is filled with narrow streets, medieval buildings and a gorgeous cathedral.
The Cathedral’s spire can be spotted from any where around the town and really is the centre piece for Bayeux.
It is worth going inside the 900 year old Cathedral to marvel at the stained glass window and feel the ghosts of the past in the crypt.
Every Saturday you will be able to shop in the market that is set up in Saint Patrice Square. You will find a whole range of products on offer from Calvados to cheeses and ciders to bed linens and clothing to locally grown vegetables.
Bayeux is close to the beaches of Normandy where you can take some time to see and reflect on the impact and consequences of World War II.
Region: Normandy
Distance: 271 kilometers
Travel Time: 3 hours
Best Time to Visit: June – September
6. Bordeaux
Eloise, MyFavouriteEscapes.com
Bordeaux is an excellent destination for a weekend away from Paris. With the high-speed train, you’ll reach the heart of the biggest city on the Atlantic Coast in just a couple of hours.
If you love architecture, food and wine, you’ll love Bordeaux.
From the train station, you can straightaway wander in the streets of the beautiful old town where every building looks like a monument, from the Cathedrale to the river banks, with the stunning Porte Cailhaux and Place de la Bourse in between.
A cruise on the river makes a perfect lunch break. The southwest of France is reputed for its delicious charcuterie, so make sure you order some from the menu.
You can also experience wine tasting on a river cruise. The wines in the Bordeaux region are one of the reasons why Bordeaux is worth visiting.
You can also join tours to visit wineries close to the city, including the stunning Saint Emilion village.
You’ll find movies, exhibitions, workshops, and tastings to learn more about wine at the Cité du Vin museum.
On the 7th floor, there’s a beautiful restaurant offering tasty meals with potentially the best view of the city.
Place de la Comedie is also an excellent spot for eating out in Bordeaux.
You can sit on a terrace and watch the street artists or enjoy fine dining at Le Quatrieme Mur, managed by one of the most famous French chefs, Philippe Etchebest.
Region: Nouvelle-Aquitaine région
Distance: 585 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 hours
Best Time to Visit: May, June and September
7. Brussels
Annelies, Travelers and Dreamers
Brussel is a great destination for a weekend trip departing from Paris. With its easy access by Thalys train, the capital of Belgium is only 1 hour and 22 minutes away.
Thalys trains leave Paris multiple times a day and ticket prices start at € 29.
There are so many things to do in Brussels that you will have to pick your activities carefully.
Are you a fan of visiting the most iconic sights in a city?
Head to La Grand Place with its incredible baroque and neo-gothic architecture, visit the adorable statue of “Manneke Pis” and marvel at the magnificence of the Atomium.
A history buff? Visit the Art and History museum, the Museum of natural sciences, or The House of European History.
You can also opt to visit just a few of the most popular neighborhoods in Brussels.
For an authentic and local vibe, head to De Marollen with its daily famous Flea Market at Place du Jeu de Balle and its many vintage stores and antique shops.
If you prefer to stay in the tourist area of the city center, be sure to check out the lovely bars at Place Saint-Géry, the awesome shops in the Dansaert area, and the cool vibe of Rue de Flandre and Place Saint Catherine.
In the evening, Head to a restaurant offering traditional Belgium Cuisine like La fin de Siècle or Au Vieux Spijtigen Duivel, or check out one of the many amazing vegan restaurants in Brussels.
Of course, a trip to Brussels wouldn’t be complete without some chocolate and a beer.
Café de Monk is an excellent typical Belgian pub to try a local beer and Neuhaus is the best place to buy chocolates.
Region: Brussels-Capital
Distance: 300 kilometers
Travel Time: 1 hour and 22 minutes
Best Time to Visit: May – June and September – October
8. Calais
Bradley, Dream Big Travel Far Blog
A port city known for its long medieval history and home to one of Auguste Rodin’s works, Calais is the largest city in the Pas-de-Calais department.
It takes between 2.5 to 3 hours by a scenic train ride (or drive) from Paris, and can be an intriguing place to visit.
The Calais Town Hall is a must-visit for fans of striking Renaissance architecture.
A 75-meter belfry stands tall as part of a UNESCO site and still chimes beautifully, while the inside houses various working models of the Calais Port.
Right in front of the building, you’ll see the original piece of the world-famous Burghers of Calais.
It’s a renowned sculpture depicting the six burghers who had to present themselves to Edward III to spare the rest of the townspeople.
Meanwhile, the Calais Lighthouse lies on the beachside and towers its surrounding at 53 meters.
You can climb the 271 steps to the top, where the White Cliffs of Dover are visible on a sunny day. The structure was built back in 1848 and survived WWII.
The city can also be a great French road trip to try out, where you start from Calais and drive towards Rouen.
Calais is well known due to it being the arrival port when driving from England to France.
It takes roughly two days and gives you an interesting mix of beachside panoramas and Medieval history.
In terms of what to eat, don’t miss out on local delicacies such as Volailles de Licques and Sablé de Wissant (a semi-soft cow’s milk cheese)!
Region: Hauts-de-France
Distance: 295 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 – 3 hours
Best Time to Visit: July and August
9. Clermont-Ferrand
Patricia, Ze Wandering Frogs
Head to Clermont-Ferrand for the weekend, and discover what the region of Auvergne has the best to offer.
One of the oldest cities in France, the city of Clermont-Ferrand offers historical sites dating back to the Romans like the Place de la Victoire or the Plateau de Gergovie, the site of the battle between the local hero Vercingetorix who won against the Roman army of Julius Caesar.
One of Clermont-Ferrand’s iconic sites is the 13th-century gothic Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption Cathedral.
Its tall spires stand high in the city’s skyline, and its dark color is a testament to the local black volcanic rock from the surrounding volcanoes.
Another must-see church is the Romanesque 6th-century Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its black Madonna.
Other top things to see in Clermont-Ferrand include L’Aventure Michelin, an interactive experience at the Michelin Group’s museum.
Walking the old streets of Montferrand, shopping around the Place de Jaude, the city’s commercial heart with plenty of great places to eat.
Walk up to Parc de Montjuzet for great views of Clermont-Ferrand.
Food is obviously an essential part of French culture, and the region is packed with fantastic cuisine.
Of course, Auvergne cheese is famous – with Blue Cheese, but also St. Nectaire, Cantal, and Salers, among other tasty options.
Auvergne cuisine is also incredible, including Truffade, Potée Auvergnate, and Petit Salé aux Lentilles du Puy.
For those looking for outdoor activities, go hiking on one of the numerous trails of the Auvergne mountain range of extinct volcanoes and reach the Puy de Dôme, the highest volcano a short distance from Clermont-Ferrand.
Paragliding, mountain biking, and horseback riding are also excellent summer activities.
Region: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Distance: 400 kilometers
Travel Time: 3 and a half hours
Best Time to Visit: May to October, but great all year-round
10. Colmar
Allison, Renovating Life
Whether you have a hankering for Christmas in July or wish to feel like you’re part of a Hallmark Christmas movie, you cannot go wrong with a weekend in Colmar.
Located in the Alsace region, the culture elegantly blends elements of French and German culture, including food, wine, language and architecture.
Reached from Paris in a short 2.5 hours by train and only 30 minutes by train from equally as charming nearby Strasbourg, Colmar does not disappoint when it comes to feeling festive.
Dripping in holiday decor, one cannot help but be charmed by this quaint, Alsatian town.
In addition to many holiday attractions, including a fair near the train station, there are many sights not to be missed.
Old Town boasts of traditional houses, plenty of restaurants and shops, and winding cobblestoned streets you can meander for hours.
Little Venice will take your breath away with all the half-timbered houses and Disney-esque beauty. From there, you can pop in to the old covered market to delight in local delicacies.
If you’re feeling lucky you can seek out a lunch table at one of the many restaurants dotting the canal, including one located in the covered market.
A little further down the river as you continue on, a wonderful children’s playground called Aire de Jeux stands opposite of possibly the cutest street in Colmar, Pl. de l’Ancienne Douane.
When it comes to what and where to eat, take your pick between delicious French, German, and Alsatian favorites.
You can also snack on holiday fare like mulled wine and hot chocolate with churros. Careful about planning your meals, as most of the restaurants close between lunch and dinner.
Especially if you are traveling with children or planning an early dinner before an evening departure you’ll be hard pressed to find full service between 4 and 7pm.
Region: Alsace
Distance: 500 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 and a half hours from Gare de l’Est with 1 transfer in Strasbourg
Best Time to Visit: June – September, November – December
11. Giverny
Andi, Misadventures with Andi
Giverny is a beautiful village located 50 miles from Paris near the town of Vernon (in Normandy) and is the home of Claude Monet’s famous gardens.
Although Giverny is only a short train ride from Paris, it feels like a world away.
If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of your trip to the city light, Giverny is the perfect day trip.
In order to visit Giverny, you need to take the train from the Paris-Saint Lazare station to Vernon. It takes approximately forty-five minutes to get there.
Once in Vernon, it is just short of a 2-mile walk to get to the town of Giverny with Monet’s former home and garden.
If you do not want to walk there is a shuttle that will take you into town, or you can grab a taxi.
You should arrive early, as the gardens tend to get crowded later in the day.
Admission to the garden is eight euros for adults and four euros for children under twelve. Once at the gardens you can take a tour of the house.
It is limited to 20 people at a time and lasts about 45 minutes.
During your tour, you will learn about Monet’s life and how he painted the gardens he knew so well.
The house is open from March to November and is closed on Mondays.
The gardens are open year-round and you can see a variety of plants.
You can visit the garden by yourself or take a guided tour. The most vibrant time is when flowers are peaking in the later spring or early summer, but the winter is still very beautiful!
After visiting the garden you can lunch in one of the restaurants available within walking distance, do a little shopping or visit The Museum of Impressionism before heading back to the train station for Paris.
Region: Normandy region
Distance: 80 kilometers
Travel Time: 45 minutes
Best Time to Visit: June – September
12. Lille
Jacoba, Op reis met Co
Lille (also known as Rijsel) is a great travel destination to visit all year round.
In Spring and Summer, make sure to explore some of the amazing parks like Parc de la Citadelle (with a seventeenth-century citadel) and Jardin des Géants.
Especially the last one is very interesting, it’s filled with fun works of art.
During Winter and those rainy days in Autumn, you can check out the amazing museums.
In addition, there’s also Musée La Piscine in a historic swimming pool.
Lille also has a historic city center called Vieux Lille, a great place to stroll around.
One of the highlights in Vieux Lille is the clock tower of the Town Hall where you will have the best views of the city.
And when you’re done sightseeing, Lille has many great restaurants that serve delicious food.
Region: Hauts-de-France
Distance: 230 kilometers
Travel Time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Best Time to Visit: All year round
13. London
Wes, WalkaboutWes
Thanks to Eurostar, London, the Capital of England, is easily accessible from Paris.
Take the train from Gare du Nord station in central Paris and arrive at Kings Cross St. Pancras in Central London 2.5 hours later.
London has something for everyone and is especially great to visit during summer to take advantage of the long summer nights.
London is full of history with many famous landmarks to see and many activities to do.
Walking is a great way to navigate the city as distances between sites are surprisingly small in many instances.
Make a beeline for the River Thames to see some of London’s most iconic sites.
Start at Tower Bridge, the most famous bridge in London, and then head for the Tower of London.
See the Beefeaters in full costume protecting the fortress and have a guided tour of this world heritage site.
Another popular activity in summer is enjoying one of the seven beautiful Royal Parks. Visit Regents Park for excellent gardens and tree-lined pathways.
Visit Hyde Park to cool down in the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain and take time out at one of the waterside cafes.
No trip to London would be complete without experiencing the unique nightlife.
Head to Soho, home to hundreds of bars and restaurants, for something to eat and drink. Try the laidback atmospheric Berenjak Soho, a longstanding favourite in London, to enjoy delicious Iranian food.
Finish your evening at a West End Show at one of many theaters such as The Apollo or London Coliseum.
Region: South Eastern England
Distance: 482 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 and a half hours
Best Time to Visit: July and August
14. Metz
Martina, PlacesofJuma
A perfect destination to visit in France is definitely Metz. This city is the perfect place to take a weekend trip from Paris.
It is located in the north-east of France, close to the frontier with Germany and Luxembourg and can be easily reached by train.
When visiting, you will enjoy of plenty of amazing things to see because there is a wide offer on beautiful sites and attractions in this city.
One of the main highlights include the Moselle riverfront, which enchants with a fantastic panorama.
A visit is especially beautiful in summer, when people stroll along the riverbank, have a picnic or take a romantic boat trip on the beautiful river.
But there are also some more attractions to explore, like the picturesque gardens, a historic old town and the many delicious French restaurants and fine boutiques.
Lovely to see is also the island of Saulcy, a lovely area connected by a bridge with many 18th century buildings.
Certainly, don’t miss visiting the main attraction of Metz, the Metz Cathedral – Saint-Étienne – one of the most beautiful and largest Gothic church buildings in France.
Furthermore, worth seeing on a tour of the city center is the Opéra-Théatre de Metz Métropole (Opera House), which is one of the oldest opera houses in Europe.
For a sightseeing break, it is worth visiting Place Saint-Jacques, a pretty place known by locals and tourists for its many nice cafés and restaurants.
Region: Grand Est
Distance: 281 kilometers
Travel Time: 1 and a half hours
Best Time to Visit: July and August
15. Strasbourg
Natali , She’s abroad again
Strasbourg in the northeast of France is one of the best weekend trips you can do from Paris.
The Alsatian region is well-known for its wine and picturesque fairytale towns with timbered houses.
Strasbourg is located approximately 400km away from Paris. But don’t let put you off from visiting on a weekend getaway.
TGV fast train takes on average just 2h 28m to reach Strasbourg from Paris.
Strasbourg is best known as the Christmas capital of the world. Therefore, the most popular time to visit is in December.
Every year, the city transforms into a Christmas fairytale, and millions of visitors come to enjoy the Christmas market in the Alsatian capital.
However, Strasbourg is equally as charming any time of the year.
Visiting Strasbourg in the summer allows you to enjoy its many parks, canals and sightseeing in the best weather conditions. Autumn is a great time to enjoy the vineyards in the region as.
Must-see landmarks in Strasbourg are the Petite France quarter, Strasbourg Cathedral and a visit to the European institutions.
The best way to explore Strasbourg is by walking. The city centre of Strasbourg is rather small, but the European institutions are a little bit further out.
If you want to feel like a local you should rent a bike! You can easily rent a Velhop bike for a day or a couple of hours.
For a unique experience, take tram D to the Europe bridge and walk to Germany! This bridge symbolises cooperation and peace in Europe connecting France and Germany.
Region: Alsace
Distance: 490 kilometers
Travel Time: 2 and a half hours
Best Time to Visit: December for Christmas Market/ March to October to enjoy the city
Paris Travel Tips
If you’re planning a weekend getaway from Paris, make sure to pack light and comfortable clothing. When travelling by train, remember to take your passport with you.
When visiting tourist attractions, it’s always worth checking for discounted tickets in advance. For example, many museums offer reduced-price entry for students and seniors.
Don’t forget to pack your camera! Whether you’re visiting the beach or exploring a historic city, you’re sure to want to capture some memories of your weekend away.
Finally, if you’re planning on hiring a car for your weekend trip, make sure to compare prices from different companies in advance. This will help you to get the best deal possible.
FAQS: Best Weekend Trips from Paris
How can I save money on my weekend trip from Paris?
There are a few ways to save money on your weekend trip from Paris. When booking your train tickets, remember to check for discounts and promotions.
You may be able to find cheaper fares if you book in advance or travel during off-peak hours.
Additionally, many museums offer reduced-price entry for students and seniors.
What countries can you travel to by train from Paris?
There are direct trains to a number of destinations in France, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands and Switzerland.
What’s close to Paris by train?
There are a number of destinations that can be reached by train from Paris in under 2 hours. These include the cities of Brussels, Cologne and Heidelberg.
Where are some 3 day trips from Paris?
Some ideas for a 3 day trip from Paris include visiting the Normandy region, exploring the Champagne region or going on a wine-tasting weekend in the Loire Valley.
Where should I go 2 hours from Paris?
There are many great places to visit within 2 hours of Paris. Some popular destinations include the Palace of Versailles, the Loire Valley, Disneyland Paris and the city of Nantes.
Wrap Up: Weekend getaways from Paris
So, if you’re looking for a change of scenery and want to explore some new territory, these are some great weekend getaways from Paris that will help you do just that.
Of course, there are endless possibilities when it comes to exploring the world beyond the City of Lights – but we think these spots should be at the top of your list! Have you been to any of these places?
If so, we’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.
And if not, well then what are you waiting for? Get packing!
Where are your favourite weekend trips from Paris?
Let us know in the comment section below – we can’t wait to hear all about them.
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