Should you do Winter Day Trips from Paris?
It’s no secret that I love Paris, the iconic City of Lights. Paris is romantic all year round, so there’s never a bad time to visit.
I have visited Paris quite a few times and always try my best to visit some of the amazing nearby towns. It gives you a different appreciation of France, spending time in the big city and then venturing out to their magical storybook-like towns.
Visiting Paris in winter and taking day trips has multiple benefits: fewer crowds, a festive atmosphere, and charming small towns on the outskirts of Paris. These towns are just as beautiful as the city itself but are much more fun to explore without all the other tourists.
⏰ Short on time?
Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. This means that, at no extra cost to you, I may earn a small commission if you click on or make a purchase through these links.
Let’s start with your most common questions about winter day trips from Paris.
Is it worth visiting Paris in winter?
Yes, visiting Paris in winter is definitely worth it. The city is far less crowded, and you can enjoy festive decorations, winter markets, and cozy cafes that are unique to colder weather. Plus, popular attractions like the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre have shorter lines.
How cold does Paris get in the winter?
Paris can get quite chilly in the winter, with average temperatures ranging from 2°C (36°F) to 7°C (45°F). It’s important to pack warm clothing, a scarf, a beanie, and gloves, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Which month will it snow in Paris?
Snow in Paris is not very common, so I would not plan a trip around seeing it. However, January is typically the coldest month, so if snow does fall, it’s most likely to happen then.
👉 If you are looking for more tips about visiting Paris. Make sure to check out Beautiful Towns to visit from Paris by Train or Car.
What is the most popular day trip from Paris?
The most popular day trip from Paris is to the Château de Versailles. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-visit destination. Plus, if you visit in winter, it will be far less busy.
Can you rent a car easily in Paris?
Yes, you can rent a car easily in Paris. I rented one from Charles de Gaulle Airport through a rental company, and it was a straightforward process.
Best Winter Day Trips from Paris
So now you’re probably wondering where to go near Paris in winter. Here are the best day trips from Paris with train, car, and tour options.
Château de Versailles
A stunning palace known for its opulent architecture and expansive gardens. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Distance by Car: Approximately 45 minutes from Paris.
Train Duration: About 1 hour.
Recommended Tour: Versailles Palace & Gardens Tour.
Main Sights:
- Hall of Mirrors: A grand hall with stunning mirrors and chandeliers
- The Gardens: Extensive and beautifully landscaped gardens.
- The Grand Trianon: A smaller palace used by French royalty for private retreats.
Giverny
Home to Claude Monet’s beautiful house and gardens.
Distance by Car: Around 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Train Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Recommended Tour: Monet’s House & Gardens Tour.
Main Sights:
- Monet’s House: The artist’s charming home filled with his personal belongings.
- Water Lily Pond: Famous for being the subject of many of Monet’s paintings.
- Flower Garden: A vibrant and colourful garden meticulously maintained.
Amboise
A charming town in the Loire Valley known for its royal château.
Distance by Car: About 2 hours.
Train Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Recommended Tour: Loire Valley Castles Tour.
Main Sights:
- Château d’Amboise: A royal residence with stunning views of the Loire River.
- Clos Lucé: Leonardo da Vinci’s last residence, now a museum.
- Saint Hubert Chapel: Resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.
Mont Saint-Michel
A breathtaking island commune with a historic abbey, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Distance by Car: Around 4 hours.
Train Duration: About 3 hours.
Recommended Tour: Mont Saint-Michel Day Trip.
Main Sights:
- Mont Saint-Michel Abbey: A stunning Gothic abbey with panoramic views.
- Ramparts: The defensive walls surrounding the island.
- Tidal Island: Witness the dramatic tides that isolate and connect the island to the mainland.
👉 Read Next: How to Visit Mont Saint Michel from Paris and What to do!
Rouen
A historic city with beautiful Gothic architecture and medieval streets.
Distance by Car: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Recommended Tour: Rouen Walking Tour.
Main Sights:
- Rouen Cathedral: A magnificent Gothic cathedral with stunning stained glass windows.
- Gros Horloge: A large astronomical clock set in a Renaissance archway.
- Joan of Arc Historial: A museum dedicated to the life of Joan of Arc.
Dijon
Known for its mustard, wines, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
Distance by Car: About 3 hours.
Train Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Recommended Tour: Dijon Wine Tasting Tour.
Main Sights:
- Palace of the Dukes: A historic building now housing the town hall and a museum.
- Dijon Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral.
- Les Halles Market: A vibrant market with local produce and specialties.
Champagne Region
Famous for its champagne houses and scenic vineyards.
Distance by Car: Around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Train Duration: Approximately 1 hour.
Recommended Tour: Champagne Tasting Tour.
Main Sights:
- Reims Cathedral: A beautiful Gothic cathedral where many French kings were crowned.
- Champagne Houses: Visit famous producers like Moët & Chandon and Veuve Clicquot.
- Avenue de Champagne: A street in Épernay lined with prestigious champagne producers.
👉 Read Next: How to Visit the Champagne Region from Paris
Disneyland Paris
About the Place: A magical theme park experience for all ages.
Distance by Car: Around 40 minutes.
Train Duration: About 45 minutes.
Main Sights:
- Sleeping Beauty Castle: The iconic centrepiece of the park.
- Adventureland: A thrilling area with exciting rides and attractions.
- Main Street, U.S.A.: A nostalgic recreation of early 20th-century America.
Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches
Explore the historic D-Day landing sites and learn about World War II.
Distance by Car: Around 3 hours.
Train Duration: About 2 hours.
Recommended Tour: D-Day Beaches Tour.
Main Sights:
- Omaha Beach: One of the primary landing sites during the D-Day invasion.
- American Cemetery: A moving tribute to the soldiers who fought in World War II.
- Pointe du Hoc: A prominent cliff that was a strategic target during the invasion.
FAQ About Paris in Winter
Where to go near Paris in winter?
Near Paris in winter, I recommend places like Château de Versailles, Mont Saint-Michel, Rouen, and the Champagne region for a charming and festive experience.
Is Paris still worth visiting in winter?
Absolutely, and I especially recommend it for your first time. Paris in winter offers a unique charm with fewer crowds, festive decorations, and cozy cafes.
Can you do a day trip from Paris to Normandy?
Yes, you can do a day trip from Paris to Normandy. It’s about a 3-hour drive or a 2-hour train ride. Tours are also available, which I think is the best way to do it unless you are comfortable hiring a car.
What is the best city to visit in France in winter?
Paris is a great city to visit in winter, but Strasbourg is also highly recommended for its famous Christmas markets and festive atmosphere.
What is the most popular winter day trip from Paris?
The most popular day trip from Paris without a doubt is to the Château de Versailles due to its historical significance and stunning architecture.
PIN THIS PAGE FOR LATER
Add comment