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Curator’s statement
Welcome to your guide to exploring the rich historical depth of France, just a short journey from the bustling streets of Paris. "Beyond the Boulevards: 5 Essential Day Trips from Paris" invites you to discover the royal opulence of Versailles, the impressionistic splendor of Giverny, the regal history of Fontainebleau, the effervescent charm of the Champagne Region, and the solemn beaches of Normandy. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into the diverse heritage that shapes this nation, making them perfect escapes for those looking to enrich their Parisian adventure.
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Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Kimpton St Honoré Paris
Chic luxury hotel in Paris with elegant interiors, a California-inspired restaurant, a cutting-edge spa complete with an indoor heated swimming pool and unrivaled 360-degree views from its rooftop bar and garden.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Saint James Paris
Set in a 19th-century château, this refined hotel features individually decorated rooms, a gourmet restaurant and an onsite spa.
Fora Perks
- ★
$100 food / beverage credit.
- ★
Welcome amenities.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Le Meurice
Paris' 18th-century palace with regal service and an ornate design that extends from the restaurants to the suites.
Fora Perks
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade whenever possible.
Hôtel Grand Powers
Glamorous property in a building from 1920 in the heart of Paris with posh rooms and suites.
Fora Perks
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Château Voltaire
A picturesque boutique hotel in the heart of Paris with stunning decor, a bar and city views.
Fora Perks
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VIP welcome & amenity.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Unlock perks by contacting Phelipe to book your trip.
Day 1: Versailles
Why It's Special: The Palace of Versailles is not just a regal estate but a symbol of French royal history and artistry. Its grandeur and detail, from the Hall of Mirrors to the sprawling gardens, represent the pinnacle of French Baroque architecture and the extravagant lifestyle of Louis XIV, the Sun King. The palace and its grounds offer a glimpse into the opulent court life of the 17th and 18th centuries, making it a key site for understanding French history.
* How to Get There: The RER C train from Paris to Versailles Château - Rive Gauche station is the most direct and convenient option, taking about 30 minutes.
* Time Needed: Plan to spend at least 4 to 6 hours exploring the palace and gardens.
Itinerary:
Morning: Start at the State Apartments where the lavish decor sets the historical scene. Visit the iconic Hall of Mirrors early to avoid crowds, then explore the King’s and Queen’s chambers.
Midday: Have lunch at La Petite Venise, enjoying views of the canal. Alternatively, picnic in the gardens if the weather permits.
Afternoon: Tour the extensive Gardens of Versailles, making sure to visit the Grand and Petit Trianon, as well as Marie-Antoinette’s Estate. Rent a rowboat or cycle around the Grand Canal for different perspectives of the gardens.
Late Afternoon: If time allows, watch the musical fountains show, which spectacularly brings the gardens to life.
Day 2: Giverny
Why It's Special: Giverny is where Claude Monet, the father of impressionist painting, spent his later years and created some of his most famous works. The gardens at Giverny are living inspirations for his paintings, meticulously crafted by Monet himself to provide the motifs for his art, especially the water lilies and Japanese bridge featured in his series.
* How to Get There: Take a direct train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon (45 minutes), then a short bus ride to Giverny.
* Time Needed: A half-day (about 4 hours) is sufficient to enjoy the house and gardens.
Itinerary:
Morning: Arrive and head straight to the water gardens for a peaceful start, enjoying the water lilies and Japanese bridge. Capture photos in the soft morning light.
Late Morning: Tour Monet’s house, including his studio and the vibrant kitchen, then explore the main flower gardens.
Lunch: Have a meal at one of the quaint local cafés in Giverny, enjoying French country cuisine.
Early Afternoon: Visit the Museum of Impressionisms to see artworks by Monet and his contemporaries. Stroll through its garden before heading back.
Day 3: Fontainebleau
Why visit: The Château de Fontainebleau is unique for its continuous residence by French monarchs spanning over seven centuries. Unlike Versailles, which is predominantly associated with Louis XIV, Fontainebleau showcases a rich blend of French architectural styles and decorations influenced by various rulers, from medieval times to the Renaissance and beyond.
* How to Get There: Take a direct train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon station, then a short bus ride to the château, about 40 minutes in total.
* Time Needed: Spend about 5-6 hours to fully experience the palace and its surroundings.
Itinerary:
Morning: Begin with a guided tour of the Château de Fontainebleau, focusing on historical rooms like the Pope’s Apartment and Napoleon’s Throne Room.
Midday: Enjoy a picnic in the English Garden or dine at a local restaurant. Try regional specialties such as Brie de Meaux cheese.
Afternoon: Hike through the Fontainebleau forest, choosing a trail that matches your interest and fitness level. Popular options include scenic views at the Gorges de Franchard.
Late Afternoon: Visit the town of Fontainebleau, exploring its charming streets and perhaps enjoying a coffee before returning to Paris.
Day 4: Champagne Region
Why It's Special: The Champagne region is the birthplace of champagne, the world-renowned sparkling wine that can only be produced within its geographic boundaries. Visiting the region provides insight into the traditional methods of champagne production and the chance to taste varieties that never make it out of France.
For wine enthusiasts, the opportunity to tour champagne houses, ranging from boutique producers to global icons like Moët & Chandon, and taste different champagnes in their terroir is incomparable. The picturesque towns and vineyards also offer a scenic escape from urban life.
* How to Get There: Take a train from Paris Gare de l'Est to Reims (45 minutes) or to Épernay (about 1 hour and 15 minutes).
* Time Needed: A full day (about 8-10 hours) to visit multiple champagne houses and explore the towns.
Itinerary:
Morning: Begin with a tour at the Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger cellar in Reims, learning about the champagne-making process and tasting different varieties.
Late Morning: Visit the magnificent Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its Gothic architecture.
Lunch: Enjoy a meal at a traditional restaurant in Reims, sampling local dishes paired with champagne.
Afternoon: Head to Épernay and stroll the Avenue de Champagne. Visit smaller champagne houses like Moët & Chandon for additional tastings.
Late Afternoon: Wrap up with a walk around the vineyards outside Épernay, if time permits, before driving back to Paris.
Day 5: Normandy Beaches
Why It's Special: The Normandy beaches are pivotal historical sites where the Allied forces landed on D-Day during WWII. The area is steeped in military history, offering insights into the strategies, hardships, and heroics involved in the turning point of the war in Europe.
A trip to the Normandy beaches is a powerful pilgrimage that pays homage to those who fought for freedom. It's not only a lesson in history but also a tribute to peace and resilience, reflected in the serene beaches and memorials like the American Cemetery, which ensure the memories of those who sacrificed their lives are never forgotten.
* How to Get There: It’s best to rent a car or join a guided tour as public transport options are limited. The drive from Paris takes about 3 hours one way.
* Time Needed: This is a full-day trip (12+ hours) due to the travel time and the number of significant sites.
Itinerary:
Early Morning: Drive to Pointe du Hoc, climb the cliffs, and explore the preserved German bunkers.
Mid-Morning: Visit Omaha Beach to learn about the D-Day landings at the memorial and museum.
Lunch: Eat at a local restaurant in Bayeux, trying specialties like seafood stew or Normandy-style chicken.
Early Afternoon: Tour the Bayeux War Cemetery and then the Bayeux Tapestry Museum, which chronicles the Norman conquest of England in 1066.
Late Afternoon: Visit the German Cemetery at La Cambe to reflect on the war’s toll and the importance of peace before driving back to Paris.
Travel Advisor
Phelipe Cardoso Sekai
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Paris. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Rive Gauche in Paris: Our Favorite Hotels.