This article was written especially for those of you who are in Paris for a week or more and already feel the need to get out of the city for a day to “recharge your batteries,” get some fresh air, and come back to tackle the boulevards of Paris with renewed energy.
To help you sort through all the options, I’ll skip the introductions and dive straight into what really matters: we’ll start with the theme parks around Paris (because let’s be honest, that’s the number one reason people with kids leave the city). In the second part you’ll find the magnificent palaces of the Île-de-France region, and finally, recommendations for full-day guided tours that will take you as far as the Loire Valley or enchanting Normandy.
So let’s hop on a train or a tour bus and head out to discover the world beyond Paris!
Where is it best to book tickets?
Before I start going through the different attractions and day trips outside Paris, let me answer a question I get asked again and again: “Zvi, which site is the best one to book through?”
It’s true that for every attraction here I’ve added a direct link to a reliable site I work with, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t other options or flash deals elsewhere. My tip? Once you’ve chosen where to go, take a quick look at The Francophile’s Toolkit. I’ve gathered there all the most reliable booking sites I know personally. A quick comparison can save you quite a few euros for your morning croissant.
Attractions for kids (and the young at heart)
Here you’ll find everything you need to burn off some energy and have fun, from wild theme parks to miniature parks. Everything is easy to reach by public transportation.
Disneyland Paris: ticket types
This is without a doubt the number one attraction. Almost no one who comes with kids skips this place. If you want to arrive prepared like a pro, you have to read my article: Disneyland Paris, the perfect family guide. Looking for somewhere to sleep close to Mickey Mouse? Have a look at recommended hotels at Disneyland Paris.
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One-day ticket
The classic option: a full day of entry to one or both Disney parks.
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Peace of mind: ticket + shuttle
An organized round-trip shuttle from central Paris + an entry ticket. The easiest solution if you don’t want to deal with the train.
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Paris package: Disney + the Eiffel Tower
A winning combination: Disneyland Paris plus a trip up the Eiffel Tower (second floor or summit).
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Disneyland + a Seine cruise
A classic package: a day at the park and a relaxing one-hour cruise on the Seine in the heart of Paris.
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Disneyland + the Arc de Triomphe
A package that combines the theme park with a stunning view from the roof of the Arc de Triomphe.
More parks
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Parc Astérix
The French answer to Disney! Based on the beloved comic, full of adrenaline and less touristy. About 35 km north of Paris.
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France Miniature
Want to see all of France in one day? A park of detailed miniature models of France’s landmarks, with attractions for kids.
Palaces you shouldn’t miss
A lot of people who want to see “palaces like in the movies” automatically head to the Loire Valley. But let me tell you a secret: just 30 to 60 minutes from Paris, some of the most impressive palaces in history are waiting for you. Here are my picks:
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The Palace of Versailles
The jewel in the crown. The most magnificent palace in France. A must on your first visit (and on your tenth).
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Vaux-le-Vicomte
The château that inspired Versailles. If you can, come on a summer evening for the candlelight visit, an experience you won’t forget.
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The Château de Chantilly
A château that is both an art museum and the birthplace of the famous whipped cream (crème Chantilly). A magical place.
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The Palace of Fontainebleau
The “real home” of the kings of France and of Napoleon. A must for history lovers who want to feel the past.
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The house of Émile Zola
A fascinating journey into the life of the great writer (1840-1902) and the Dreyfus Affair, in which his open letter “J’accuse…!” played a decisive role.
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The Thoiry château and zoo
A rare combination of a historic château and a safari where the animals roam free. Ideal for families.
Organized day trips
Want a taste of the real France but don’t feel like dealing with the headache of renting a car? I completely understand. I’ve gathered here the best organized day trips, which will pick you up in central Paris in the morning and bring you back in the evening, tired but happy.
Guided day trips from Paris in English
Have a look at the following GetYourGuide tours. These are high-quality trips with a comfortable tour bus and English-speaking guides. Below you’ll find a few tours I hand-picked for you:
