Best Places To Visit From Paris

Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, known for its culture, food, art, and history. It is a city that attracts millions of visitors from all over the world every year, and with its countless attractions, there is something to see and do for everyone. But if you are looking to explore beyond the City of Lights, there are many amazing places to visit in the surrounding area. From the beaches of Normandy to the magnificent castles of the Loire Valley, here are some of the best places to visit from Paris.

The Beaches of Normandy

The beaches of Normandy are some of the most beautiful in France and one of the most popular day trips from Paris. The region is best known for its role in World War II, and the beaches of Normandy are a powerful reminder of the events that occurred here, making it a must-visit destination for many travelers. Visitors can explore the many memorials, museums, and cemeteries that are scattered along the coast, or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of this area. There are also plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as kayaking, surfing, and fishing. To explore the beaches of Normandy, you can book a day trip from Paris, or you can take the TGV train to Bayeux and rent a car to explore the area at your own pace.

The Châteaux of the Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is home to some of the most spectacular castles in France and is a popular destination for visitors to Paris. The region is known for its magnificent chateaux and grandiose gardens that have been the home of French royalty for centuries. There are dozens of castles to explore, from the imposing Château de Chambord to the romantic Château de Chenonceau. Visitors can take guided tours of the castles or explore the gardens on their own. For those who want to visit more than one castle in the area, there are day tours available from Paris that will take you to some of the most popular châteaux in the region.

The Cathedrals of Reims and Chartres

The cities of Reims and Chartres are home to two of the most spectacular cathedrals in France and are popular destinations for visitors to Paris. The Notre Dame Cathedral of Reims is a magnificent Gothic masterpiece that has been featured in many films and is a popular tourist attraction, while the Gothic Cathedral of Chartres is considered to be one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in the world. Both cathedrals are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are worth a visit for their stunning architecture and history. To visit Reims and Chartres from Paris, you can take a day tour or take the train to Reims and then rent a car to explore the area at your own pace.

Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial is located in Colleville-sur-Mer and is the final resting place of over 9,000 American soldiers who died in the Battle of Normandy during World War II. The cemetery covers 172 acres and is surrounded by a wall of remembrance inscribed with the names of those who gave their lives in the battle. Visitors can explore the cemetery and the memorial on their own or take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the site.

The Mont-Saint-Michel

The Mont-Saint-Michel is a stunning island commune located in the Normandy region of France and is one of the most visited sites in the country. The island is home to a Benedictine Abbey that dates back to the 8th century and is surrounded by medieval walls and fortifications. Visitors can explore the abbey, wander through the cobblestone streets, and visit the many shops, restaurants, and galleries that are located on the island. To visit Mont-Saint-Michel from Paris, you can book a day tour or take the train to Rennes and rent a car to explore the area at your own pace.

The Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is perhaps the most famous royal palace in Europe, located in the Île-de-France region of France. The palace was the home of the French monarchy for many centuries and is a spectacular example of baroque architecture. Visitors can explore the magnificent gardens, take a guided tour of the palace, and visit the Hall of Mirrors, where many important historical events took place. To visit Versailles from Paris, you can book a day tour or take the RER B train to Versailles Château-Rive Gauche Station and explore the area on your own.

Conclusion

Paris is an amazing city that is full of sights and attractions, but there are many other amazing places to visit in the surrounding area. From the beaches of Normandy to the magnificent cathedrals of Reims and Chartres and the grandiose castles of the Loire Valley, there are many incredible places to explore from Paris. Whether you are looking for a day trip or an extended tour, there are many options available for visitors looking to explore beyond the City of Lights.