Best Places To Visit Near Paris

Paris is one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in the world. It is a place that has captivated imaginations and inspired countless works of art, literature, and music. Its streets are lined with grand architecture, art galleries, and quaint cafés. This city has a lot to offer, but sometimes it can be difficult to explore it all in a single trip. That’s why it’s important to know what are the best places to visit near Paris.

The city of Paris itself has a wealth of attractions, from the iconic Eiffel Tower and the Louvre to the historic Notre Dame cathedral and the world-famous Champs-Elysees. But there are also some great places to explore just outside the city. From stunning palaces and gardens to breathtaking countryside and charming towns, the region surrounding Paris is full of hidden gems that are easily accessible from the capital.

A Brief History of Paris

Paris has been at the heart of French culture for centuries. It was founded by the Parisii tribe of Celtic people around 250 BC, and it quickly grew into an important trading hub and cultural center. By the Middle Ages, Paris had become a major political and religious center, and many of its most iconic monuments were built during this period.

Since then, Paris has played a key role in France’s history. The city was a center of the French Revolution in 1789 and was the site of some of the most significant events of World War II. Today, it is one of the world’s most important cities, known for its fashion, art, cuisine, and culture.

Popular Attractions in Paris

The city of Paris is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions. Some of the most popular sights in Paris include:

• The Eiffel Tower: This iconic structure is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Built for the 1889 World’s Fair, it stands at 1,063 feet tall and offers spectacular views of the city.
• The Louvre: This world-famous museum houses some of the greatest works of art in history, from ancient Greek sculptures to masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.
• Notre Dame Cathedral: This stunning Gothic cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Paris. Its soaring spires and intricate carvings make it a sight to behold.
• The Champs-Elysees: This wide boulevard is lined with luxury stores, cafés, and monuments. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll.
• Arc de Triomphe: This iconic triumphal arch stands at the western end of the Champs-Elysees. It was built to commemorate Napoleon’s victories.

Best Places to Visit Near Paris

Paris is surrounded by a wealth of stunning attractions that are easily accessible from the capital. From grand palaces to peaceful countryside, here are some of the best places to visit near Paris:

Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is one of France’s most impressive royal residences. Located about 15 miles southwest of Paris, this grand palace is surrounded by elegant gardens and splendid fountains. Visitors can explore more than 2,000 rooms filled with art and antiques, as well as stroll through the gardens and visit Marie Antoinette’s estate. A visit to Versailles is a must-see for anyone visiting Paris.

Book a tour of Versailles Palace here.

Giverny

Giverny is a charming village located about an hour west of Paris. This picturesque village was once home to Claude Monet, and it inspired some of his most famous works. Today, visitors can explore his house and gardens just as he did over a century ago. It’s a great place for anyone who loves art and nature.

Book a tour of Monet’s Giverny here.

Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is a stunning French town located about 40 miles south of Paris. This historic town has been home to kings and emperors since the 12th century, and it’s full of grand castles and lush gardens. Visitors can explore the Palace of Fontainebleau as well as its beautiful grounds.

Book a tour of Fontainebleau Palace here.

Vaux-le-Vicomte

Vaux-le-Vicomte is an impressive chateau located about 40 miles southeast of Paris. Built in the 17th century, this grand estate is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains. Visitors can explore its grand halls as well as its beautiful grounds.

Book a tour of Vaux-le-Vicomte Chateau here.

The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is one of France’s most beautiful regions, located about two hours southwest of Paris. This region is dotted with charming villages, vineyards, and castles that date back centuries. Visitors can explore fairytale castles such as Chambord and Chenonceau or take a leisurely stroll through vineyards and gardens.

Book a tour of the Loire Valley here.

Mont Saint Michel

Mont Saint Michel is an iconic island monastery located about three hours west of Paris. This stunning island is surrounded by medieval walls and fortifications, and it’s home to a stunning church perched atop a rocky outcrop. Visitors can explore its cobblestone streets, take in stunning views from atop its walls, and visit its abbey.

Book a tour of Mont Saint Michel here.

Conclusion

Paris is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and it has so much to offer visitors. But if you’re looking for something different from what Paris has to offer, you don’t have to look far! From grand palaces to peaceful countryside, there are many beautiful places to visit near Paris that are just a short train ride away from the capital city. Whether you’re looking for historical sites or stunning nature spots, you’ll find something to enjoy near Paris!