12 Easy Weekend Trips from Paris by Train

When I first visited Paris, I spent a week exploring the city and took a quick day trip to Versailles. What I didn’t realize was how easy it is to reach other cities from Paris—not just in France, but even in nearby countries.

I was amazed at how quickly you can get to spots like Strasbourg or Amsterdam. That’s why I put together this list of lively cities, charming seaside towns, and even cross-border adventures—all just a train ride away.

Looking back, I wish I had added some of these stops to my own trip. Now you don’t have to miss out like I did.

So if it’s your first time in Paris and you’d love to explore more without the hassle of renting a car, this guide is for you. Here are 12 best weekend trips from Paris by train.

Not ready for a full weekend away? You can still escape the city with these easy day trips from Paris by train (Versailles, Giverny, or Reims) or day trips from Paris to other countries (Belgium, Luxembourg, or even Switzerland).

1. Strasbourg, France

Train Time: 1h 45m | From: Paris Gare de l’Est via TGV
Best for: Fairytale vibes and Christmas markets

Our weekend trip to Strasbourg was my first taste of a French‑German fairy tale. It felt like stepping into a storybook and even when we visited early in September, it truly lived up to its name as the “Capital of Christmas.” The streets glowed with lights, the air smelled like mulled wine and spices, and I found myself just wandering, completely enchanted.

We spent a day strolling through the cobbled lanes of Petite-France, with its timbered houses and peaceful canals. We watched the sunset from Barrage Vauban. I stood in front of Cathédrale Notre-Dame for at least ten full minutes — completely in awe of its stained glass and sky-piercing towers.

For two nights, we enjoyed a traditional Alsatian dinner of tarte flambée, spaetzle, and quiche with local wine. I don’t even like cheese, but these were one of my most memorable meals—cozy, festive, and so full of warmth. If you’re into food, join a traditional food walking tour to sample the beautiful mix of German and French cuisine.

Pro Tip: If you’re visiting from August 29 to November 22, 2025, there’s a 360° immersive musical light show inside the cathedral for its 750th anniversary. Make sure to book your tickets in advance,

Where to stay in Strasbourg: Hôtel Le Grillon is central, affordable and a 5-minute walk from the TGV train station with charming holiday-style decor year-round.

2. Lyon, France

Train Duration: 1h 50m | From: Paris Gare de Lyon via TGV
Best for: Food and Architecture

Lyon surprised me with how effortlessly it blends elegance, Roman ruins, and seriously good food. We kicked off our weekend by riding the funicular up Fourvière Hill, and it’s worth it for the sweeping views alone.

At the top, the gilded mosaics of Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica practically glow in the sunlight. If you’re not afraid of heights, the guided rooftop tour is a must—it’s like hovering above the entire city.

After descending into Vieux Lyon, we explored cobbled alleyways and searched for traboules—secret Renaissance passageways that lead to hidden courtyards. It felt like a scavenger hunt through time, and I couldn’t get enough.

Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France, and you’ll feel it immediately. Book a table at a cozy bouchon for Lyonnais specialties, or wander through the legendary Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse if you prefer a gourmet grazing experience. Either way, come hungry.

For your second day, don’t leave without hunting down the city’s incredible trompe-l’oeil murals, like the Mur des Canuts and Fresque des Lyonnais. They’re so lifelike I half-expected someone to step out of the wall.

Lyon is packed with charm, history, and top-tier cuisine—all without the crowds of Paris. You’ll wonder why you didn’t visit sooner.

Where to stay in Lyon: This aparthotel in Lyon is a cozy and quiet stay just steps from the train station — super convenient if you’re arriving late or leaving early.

By Lisa Garrett of Travel to Lyon

3. Bordeaux, France

Train Time: 2h 3m | From: Paris Gare Montparnasse via TGV
Best for: Wine lovers and elegant city strolls

Bordeaux is where elegance meets indulgence. The city’s 18th-century architecture and riverside boulevards give it a stately air, while its buzzing cafés and markets keep it lively and modern. I loved simply walking the Place de la Bourse, watching the reflection shimmer across the Miroir d’Eau.

Bordeaux is a wine lover’s paradise. We ended our first night with a glass of deep red Bordeaux and a hearty dinner in the historic center—simple, yet unforgettable.

If you want a deeper dive into the city, this walking tour is a great way to uncover its grand squares and hidden alleys with a local guide.

Spend your morning exploring the Cité du Vin, an interactive wine museum that’s far more fun than it sounds. Then, hop on a quick local train to Saint-Émilion, a medieval village that feels frozen in time. I’ll never forget wandering its cobblestoned streets, ducking into centuries-old cellars, and tasting wine right where it’s made.

For an easy, curated visit, try this Saint-Émilion Wine Tour, which takes you straight to family-run vineyards and underground cellars.

If wine isn’t enough indulgence, Bordeaux is also home to hearty regional cuisine. One of my favorite discoveries was at Les Capucins Market, where locals gather for fresh oysters, charcuterie, and pastries.

A great way to experience it like an insider is through this local tour, which takes you to hidden spots in the heart of Bordeaux for bites you’d never find on your own.

Where to Stay: Bloom Hostel Bar & Garden – a stylish, social hostel with a relaxing garden and on-site bar. It’s budget-friendly, central, and a fun base for meeting other travelers over a glass of Bordeaux.

By Victoria of Guide Your Travel

4. Marseille, France

Travel Time: 3h15 | From: Paris Gare de Lyon via TGV
Best for: History lovers, Mediterranean views, and sea adventures

Founded by the Greeks in 600 BC, Marseille is France’s oldest city and a gateway to the Mediterranean. Whether you’re here for its rich history or its dazzling coastline, Marseille makes an unforgettable weekend getaway from Paris.

Start your morning at the Basilica of Notre Dame de la Garde, perched high above the city with sweeping views of the sea. Then head down to the Vieux-Port, once a bustling Greek harbor, now lined with lively cafés and boats.

To really dig into the city’s past, join a walking tour or make it fun with an old town treasure hunt. Both will show you the city’s hidden corners in ways you wouldn’t find alone.

The next day, trade cobblestones for cliffs with a trip to the Parc National des Calanques. The turquoise waters and dramatic limestone cliffs are best seen by boat, and a Calanques Catamaran Cruise makes it effortless.

If you prefer something more romantic, board a Sunset Cruise to the Frioul Islands—there’s nothing quite like watching the sun dip behind the Mediterranean from the deck of a classic sailboat.

Back at the Vieux-Port, indulge in seafood, bouillabaisse, or sample street food with a twist. Pair it with a local rosé—or go all-in with a wine tasting at one of the city’s boutique shops.

Marseille is a city of contrasts—sacred basilicas and rugged cliffs, Greek ruins and modern gastronomy. Spend two days here, and you’ll see why this port city has been a cultural crossroads for over 2,000 years.

Where to Stay: Paradise Earth & Sea – a relaxed stay blending Mediterranean charm with sea views. Ideal if you want a peaceful base after days of exploring Marseille’s bustling port and rugged coastline.

5. Colmar, France

Travel Time: 2h20 to Strasbourg (direct TGV) + 30 min local train | From: Paris Gare de l’Est
Best for: Fairytale canals, Christmas markets, and Alsatian villages

While Strasbourg impresses with its grand cathedral, lively squares, and bigger-city energy, Colmar is the intimate, postcard-perfect version of Alsace.

Colmar is often called the storybook town of France, and it’s easy to see why. With its half-timbered houses, flower-draped balconies, and cobblestoned streets, this Alsatian gem feels more like a painting than real life.

Start your visit in Little Venice, the city’s most picturesque quarter, where colorful houses reflect in narrow canals. I loved grabbing a pastry from a local bakery and wandering the lanes before hopping on a canal boat ride—a fun way to see Colmar from the water.

The most famous time to visit is during the Christmas season, when Colmar transforms into a glowing fairytale. The decorations, stalls, and smell of mulled wine make it pure magic. But I’ll admit—I enjoyed spring even more, when the crowds had thinned and the city bloomed with flowers.

Colmar also makes a perfect base to explore nearby Alsatian villages like Riquewihr and Eguisheim—both among the most beautiful in France. I recommend the visiting these villages and vineyards on your second day. If you’d rather stick to Colmar itself, a walking tour with a local will uncover hidden corners and quirky history.

Colmar is compact enough to explore in a day but charming enough to justify an overnight stay—especially if you want to combine it with the Alsace wine route.

Where to Stay: Arche de Noé – a cozy, central guesthouse with warm Alsatian decor. It’s just steps from Colmar’s old town, making it the perfect base for exploring on foot.

By Natali of She’s Abroad Again

6. Etretat, France

Travel Time: 2h10 to Le Havre (direct train) + 30 min bus | From: Paris Saint-Lazare
Best for: Hikers, photographers, and peaceful coastal getaways

On Normandy’s windswept coast, Étretat is famous for its dramatic white cliffs that plunge into the sea. The formations here rival those in southern England, with the iconic “Needle” and “Elephant” arches carved by time and tides.

Start with the breathtaking coastal trails. The panoramas are unforgettable, and if you want an even deeper dive, join a guided hike of Étretat’s legendary cliffs. Along the way, you’ll see why generations of artists and writers—from Monet to Maupassant—fell in love with this coastline.

Next day, stay in town and wander through cobbled streets, pop into small art galleries, or sip coffee in a seaside café. The promenade leads to a narrow beach where you can rent a SUP or kayak to view the cliffs from below—an incredible perspective after seeing them from above.

Étretat has become much more popular in recent years. To avoid crowds, visit in spring or autumn when the trails are quieter, but the views are just as magical.

Étretat is less about sightseeing checklists and more about slowing down—perfect if you’re craving sea air, dramatic landscapes, and a touch of Normandy charm.

Where to Stay: Hotel Normandy – a charming stay just steps from the seafront. With cozy rooms and easy access to the cliffs, it’s the perfect base for a peaceful coastal weekend.

By Annelies of Travelers & Dreamers

7. Saint-Malo

Travel Time: 1h34 to Rennes (direct TGV) + 1h local train | From: Paris Montparnasse
Best for: History buffs, pirate legends, and coastal charm

Perched on Brittany’s rugged coast, Saint-Malo is a walled city with a swashbuckling past. Once home to privateers (French pirates sanctioned by the crown), it later became a gateway for explorers setting sail to the New World.

Begin your trip in La Ville Intra-Muros, the old town enclosed by 17th-century ramparts. Walking along the walls gives you sweeping views of the sea, beaches, and medieval rooftops.

Inside, the cobbled streets are full of cafés, boutiques, and the magnificent St Vincent’s Cathedral, where explorer Jacques Cartier is buried. For deeper context, join a guided tour of the walled City to uncover Saint-Malo’s pirate legends and hidden stories.

Next day, visit Bon Secours Beach, with its tidal seawater pool. It’s a unique place to swim or sunbathe beneath the fortified walls. To experience Saint-Malo from another perspective, hop on a boat tour. Out on the waves, you’ll see why this city has always been tied to the sea.

If you speak French, join the Saint-Malo 1944: Under the Ashes of Freedom, a WWII-themed walking tour tracing the city’s wartime destruction and remarkable reconstruction.

Saint-Malo is a city of contrasts: pirate tales and cathedral spires, WWII scars and sun-drenched beaches. It’s easily one of the most atmospheric coastal weekend getaways from Paris.

Where to Stay: Hôtel Oré is a comfortable and modern stay with easy access to both the walled city and Brittany’s coast. A great base for combining history with relaxation.

8. Mont St Michel, France

Travel Time: 3h10 (train to Rennes + shuttle bus) | From: Paris Montparnasse

Rising dramatically from the tidal flats of Normandy, Mont Saint-Michel is a medieval island commune crowned by its 11th-century Benedictine abbey. Dedicated to Archangel Michael, it has drawn pilgrims for centuries—and still feels otherworldly when you first see it rising above the bay.

Spend your first day exploring Mont Saint-Michel itself. To reach the abbey, you’ll wander through a narrow medieval village where stone houses, tiny shops, and winding streets climb toward the summit. The abbey at the top is breathtaking, with cloisters, chapels, and sweeping views of the tidal bay.

To make the most of your visit, book your Mont Saint-Michel Abbey Ticket in advance to skip the lines or join a guided walking tour to learn the legends and history behind this extraordinary site.

On your second day, experience what makes Mont Saint-Michel so unique—its ever-changing tidal setting. At high tide, the causeway disappears beneath the water, briefly turning the mount into a true island.

Walking across the sands is unforgettable, and the best way to do it is with a guide. The bay walking tour takes you safely across the tidal flats, where you’ll learn about the quicksand, shifting waters, and the legends tied to this extraordinary landscape.

Pro Tip: Mont Saint-Michel gets very crowded by midday, especially in summer. That’s why it’s best to plan it as a weekend trip—you’ll be able to enjoy the abbey, village, and ramparts in the evening and early morning, long after the day-trippers have gone.

Mont Saint-Michel is less of a “city break” and more of a bucket-list experience—a place that feels like stepping into another time and world.

Where to Stay: Les gites Romeline – a peaceful countryside stay with wellness touches, just outside Mont Saint-Michel. It’s perfect if you want to enjoy the abbey early in the morning or after the crowds leave.

By Hanit Gyani of Gotta Love New York

9. Loire Valley, France

Travel Time: 1h40 to Tours or Amboise + regional train or transfer to castles | From: Paris Montparnasse
Best for: Castle lovers and Renaissance romance

If your dream weekend involves fairytale castles, the Loire Valley is the perfect escape. This lush valley in central France is dotted with more than 300 châteaux, each with its own history and charm.

Begin with the elegant Château de Chenonceau, known as the “Castle of the Ladies” for the powerful women who shaped its story. Its arches span the Cher River like something from a fairytale. To skip the lines, grab your Chenonceau Castle admission ticket in advance.

In the afternoon, head to the grand Château de Chambord, the largest in the Loire Valley and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture said to be inspired by Leonardo da Vinci.

I’ll never forget climbing its double-helix staircase and emerging onto the rooftop terraces with sweeping forest views. You can choose a simple skip-the-line ticket or dive deeper with a Chambord guided tour to learn about its history.

Spend your second day at the Château Royal d’Amboise, the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci. Entry is easy with a skip-the-line ticket. Then, for a truly magical experience, soar above the valley on a sunset hot air balloon ride. Seeing the châteaux and vineyards from the sky is an experience you’ll never forget.

The Loire Valley is also one of France’s top wine regions. Pair your château-hopping with a glass (or two) of local Sauvignon Blanc or Cabernet Franc. The Amboise Caves Duhard wine tasting is a fantastic way to taste Loire Valley wines inside centuries-old troglodyte cellars carved into the rock. It’s intimate, authentic, and pairs beautifully with a château weekend.

10. London, United Kingdom

Travel Time: 2h20 | From: Paris Gare du Nord via Eurostar
Best for: First-time visitors and urban adventures

Just over two hours from Paris, London makes for an unforgettable weekend escape. Step off the Eurostar at St Pancras Station, and you’re instantly transported—red double-decker buses rumble by, black cabs zip past, and the hum of pub chatter fills the air.

Start with the classics on your first day. Take the Tube to Waterloo and walk across Westminster Bridge for your first big view: Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and Westminster Abbey all within steps of each other.

From here, continue toward Buckingham Palace to catch the Changing of the Guard. In the afternoon, stroll up to Piccadilly Circus and Regent Street for a dose of neon lights and flagship shopping. End your evening in the Soho or Covent Garden area with dinner and a drink—this is London’s lively heart.

Next day, visit a museuma and a local market. London’s museums are world-class—and most are free. Spend the morning at the British Museum if you love history, or opt for the National Gallery or Tate Modern if art is more your style.

In the afternoon, head to Borough Market, where food stalls overflow with artisanal cheeses, fresh bakes, and international flavors. If you prefer guided experiences, London has a tour for every taste: a royal landmarks tour for history buffs, a Jack the Ripper walk for mystery lovers, or a Harry Potter tour for Potterheads.

Wrap up your weekend near King’s Cross and Granary Square, an area that’s been completely transformed with restaurants and cafés. My go-to is Dishoom, where the house black daal and curries are legendary (yes, the line is worth it). It’s also just minutes from St Pancras, making it a stress-free way to end your trip.

Pro Tip: London is massive. Instead of trying to see everything, pick two or three neighborhoods for your weekend—it makes the city feel more personal and less overwhelming.

Where to Stay: Tulse Hill Luxury Cosy Rooms – a comfortable and affordable stay with quick train links into central London, giving you a cozy base after busy days of sightseeing.

11. Brussels, Belgium

Travel Time: 1h30 (direct Thalys/Eurostar) | From: Paris Gare du Nord
Best for: Foodies, beer lovers, and culture seekers

It still amazes me that in just an hour and a half, you can swap Parisian boulevards for Brussels’ cobblestones. One moment you’re sipping a coffee in Paris, and the next you’re starting your weekend with a golden waffle in Belgium.

Begin with a stop at Vitalgaufre, where the waffles come hot, caramelized at the edges, and absolutely irresistible. From there, wander over to the Grand Place, Brussels’ UNESCO-listed square. In the morning light, its gilded façades shimmer, and nearby lanes are full of chocolate shops, comic book stores, and cozy cafés.

For a deeper dive, join a small-group walking tour that blends history with food tastings—think Belgian chocolates, waffles, and insider stories you’d never find alone.

Spend your second day exploring Brussels’ cultural side. Start with a stroll past the city’s famous comic book murals, then stop at the Royal Palace gardens or the Magritte Museum for a taste of Belgian surrealism.

By the afternoon, settle into a café or brewery for a Belgian beer tasting—the country is famous for its Trappist ales and craft brews. The vibe here isn’t about rushing from sight to sight—it’s about savoring the city slowly.

Pro Tip: Brussels is compact and walkable, but don’t miss trying the tram system—it’s a fun, local way to hop between neighborhoods like the Marolles or Ixelles for more offbeat cafés and vintage shops.

Where to Stay: The Liman – a modern boutique stay in Brussels with stylish rooms and easy access to the city’s highlights. A cozy base for exploring the Belgian capital on foot.

12. Amsterdam, Netherlands

Travel Time: 3h20 (direct Thalys/Eurostar) | From: Paris Gare du Nord
Best for: Art lovers, cyclists, and canal dreamers

Amsterdam may only be a few hours from Paris by train, but it feels like another world. With its crooked canal houses, bike-friendly streets, and world-class museums, this Dutch gem makes for a magical weekend escape.

Begin your trip with a stroll along the canals, where 17th-century houses lean charmingly toward the water. For a powerful glimpse into history, visit the Anne Frank House (book tickets weeks in advance, they sell out fast).

In the afternoon, head to the Van Gogh Museum to see his most iconic works, or explore the Rijksmuseum for Dutch masters like Rembrandt and Vermeer. End the evening in the Jordaan district, with its cozy cafés and canal-side restaurants—perfect for a relaxed dinner.

No weekend in Amsterdam is complete without exploring by bike. Join guided bike tour (available on GetYourGuide / Klook / Viator)on your next day to cover more ground with a local perspective—you’ll see hidden courtyards, lively markets, and off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods.

Afterward, wander through the Bloemenmarkt, the city’s floating flower market, or climb the Westerkerk Tower for panoramic city views. In the evening, unwind with a canal cruise, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water.

Pro Tip: Amsterdam’s museums and attractions can get crowded, especially on weekends. Plan ahead by reserving tickets early, and balance the big sights with slower moments—like sitting on a canal bench with a stroopwafel in hand.

Where to Stay: Hotel Estherea – a boutique hotel right on the Singel canal, with elegant interiors and a prime location for exploring the city on foot.

What’s Next After Your Weekend Trip?

Paris isn’t just a city to visit—it’s a hub that unlocks so many adventures. From fairytale castles in the Loire Valley to seaside escapes in Normandy and cross-border city breaks in London or Amsterdam, the hardest part is deciding which weekend trip to take first.

But every great getaway begins and ends with Paris. Before you plan your side trips, make sure you know how to experience the City of Light to the fullest. My Paris Travel Guide is the perfect place to start—it’s packed with insider tips on where to stay, what to do, and how to soak up every moment in one of the world’s most magical cities.

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