5 Amazing Day Trips from Paris by Train: Ultimate Guide

Escape the dazzling lights of Paris and hop on a train to uncover the authentic charm of France. From enchanting villages perfect for a half-day excursion to regional cities brimming with gastronomy and art, train travel is the ideal way to enrich your Parisian adventure. Let's explore five incredible train journeys from Paris that promise unforgettable experiences.


1. Versailles: Step into the Splendor of Royalty

A top day-trip choice for visitors to Paris. The Palace of Versailles, the Hall of Mirrors, and the sprawling gardens symbolize the absolute power of the Sun King, Louis XIV. The sheer scale is breathtaking.

How to get there: Take the RER C line from Paris to the Versailles Château Rive Gauche station (approx. 40-50 minutes from the city center). Don't forget to purchase a specific ticket for this route, as regular metro tickets won't work!


2. Chartres: City of Light and Stained Glass

Chartres is perfectly sized for a day trip, with plenty of hidden gems to discover at a relaxed pace. The 'Chartres Blue' stained glass of the UNESCO-listed Chartres Cathedral is a must-see. Many travelers find Chartres to be one of the best day trips from Paris by train.

How to get there: A regional train (TER) from Paris Montparnasse station will get you there in about 1 hour and 10 minutes.


3. Dijon: Gastronomy and Art in Burgundy

The heart of the Burgundy region, steeped in the glory of medieval dukes. While there are famous landmarks like the Dukes' Palace and art museums, Burgundy is also great for exploring the vineyard trails by bike. As a gastronomic city, mustard tasting and a glass of wine are essential.

How to get there: A high-speed train (TGV) from Paris Gare de Lyon station takes about 1 hour and 35 minutes.


4. Loire Valley: France's Garden and Chateaux

A resort loved by French royalty and nobles, with hundreds of UNESCO World Heritage-listed castles. The beautiful 'Château de Chenonceau' built on the river and 'Château de Chambord' evoke a scene from a fairy tale.

How to get there: Take the TGV from Paris Montparnasse station to Tours or St-Pierre-des-Corps station (approx. 1 hour).


5. Lyon: The Gastronomic Capital of France

Lyon, one of France's three major cities along with Paris and Marseille, is a mecca for food lovers. Taste authentic French home cooking at a traditional Lyon restaurant called 'Bouchon' and climb Fourvière Hill to admire the panoramic view of the city full of red roofs.

How to get there: Take the TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon station and arrive in about 2 hours.

For popular routes such as Dijon or Lyon, the earlier you book your TGV tickets, the cheaper they will be. Instead of standing in long lines to buy train tickets locally, check the train reservation system on WAUG in advance and plan your itinerary. Booking Versailles Palace tickets or Loire Valley castle tours together on WAUG can reduce waiting time and add depth to your trip. Start experiencing the romance of France flowing outside the train window right now.