Day trips from Paris by train: castles, coastlines & vineyards

Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most enchanting destinations, a medieval abbey perched dramatically on a rocky island off the Normandy coast. Surrounded by shifting tides that transform it from island to mainland, the site feels like stepping into a fairytale. Wander the narrow, winding streets lined with stone houses, climb to the breathtaking abbey with its soaring Gothic spire, and enjoy panoramic views over the bay. Whether bathed in golden sunset light or shrouded in mist, Mont Saint-Michel is unforgettable. Just a few hours from Paris, it’s a perfect weekend escape into history, legend, and natural beauty.

1. Mont Saint-Michel – The Floating Abbey

• Travel time: ~3h30–4h (train to Pontorson + shuttle).

• Why go: Rising like a fairytale island from the sea, Mont Saint-Michel is one of France’s most magical sights, with winding streets, panoramic views, and tidal wonders.

2. Chenonceau – The Château on the River

• Travel time: ~2h15 (train to Chenonceaux station).

• Why go: Gracefully stretching across the Cher River, this Renaissance château is surrounded by lush gardens and royal history.

Château de Chenonceau is one of the Loire Valley’s most iconic castles, admired for its elegance and unique position spanning the Cher River. Known as the “Ladies’ Château” for the influential women who shaped its history, Chenonceau blends Renaissance grace with romantic charm. Visitors can stroll through beautifully furnished rooms, from the grand gallery stretching across the river to the intimate private chambers. Outside, the manicured gardens of Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici invite peaceful walks, while the riverside views are picture-perfect. Just a short trip from Paris, Chenonceau offers history, beauty, and tranquility in one unforgettable setting.

3. Chambord – A Castle of Spirals and Secrets

• Travel time: ~2h30 (train to Blois + shuttle).

• Why go: With 400 rooms, dramatic towers, and Leonardo da Vinci-inspired staircases, Chambord is the Loire Valley’s grandest castle.

Château de Chambord is the crown jewel of the Loire Valley, an architectural masterpiece that embodies French Renaissance grandeur. Commissioned by King François I, the castle boasts over 400 rooms, intricate ceilings, and the famous double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci. Its vast façade, adorned with towers and chimneys, rises majestically from a lush forested park, the largest enclosed park in Europe. Inside, explore lavish halls and royal apartments, then climb to the rooftop terraces for sweeping views over the estate. A visit to Chambord is a journey into France’s royal past, filled with artistry, innovation, and sheer splendor.

4. ZooParc de Beauval – Wildlife Wonderland

• Travel time: ~2h15 to Saint-Aignan + shuttle.

• Why go: Home to giant pandas, rare species, and lush habitats, Beauval is often ranked among the world’s top zoos.

ZooParc de Beauval is one of the world’s premier zoological parks, famous for its remarkable diversity of wildlife and conservation efforts. Spread across beautifully landscaped grounds, the zoo is home to over 35,000 animals, including rare and endangered species from every continent. Its most beloved residents are the giant pandas, a unique sight in France, alongside white tigers, manatees, and koalas. The expansive habitats, immersive aviaries, and daily shows make it a full-day experience for visitors of all ages. Just a couple of hours from Paris, Beauval offers an unforgettable journey into the natural world without leaving France.

5. Le Havre & Normandy’s Beachfront

• Travel time: ~2h15 by train from Paris to Le Havre

• Why go: For a refreshing seaside escape, head to Le Havre on the Normandy coast.

Le Havre offers the perfect mix of seaside relaxation and cultural discovery on the Normandy coast. Rebuilt after WWII and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is known for Auguste Perret’s striking modernist architecture, wide boulevards, and landmarks like St. Joseph’s Church with its lantern-tower. Art lovers can explore the MuMa museum, while the long pebble beach invites swimming, dining, or simply watching the sun sink into the English Channel. For adventure, head just outside the city to the cliffs leading toward Étretat, where scenic trails reward you with dramatic sea views and breathtaking rock formations.