Top 5 Best Getaways Around Paris in 2025
Looking for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of Paris for a day or a weekend? Thanks to the extensive transport network, many exciting destinations are just under 2 hours by train from the capital. Whether you’re passionate about history, nature, or architecture, these five getaways around Paris promise a refreshing and inspiring break.
1. Versailles: A Royal Must-See
Just 20 km from Paris, Versailles is a top destination for a cultural and majestic day out. Its iconic palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, invites visitors to explore the opulent royal apartments, the Opera House, the Royal Chapel, and the French gardens designed by Le Nôtre.
🚆 How to get there: RER C from Invalides to Versailles-Château-Rive-Gauche (approx. 30 minutes)
2. Provins: A Journey to the Middle Ages
Want to travel back in time? Head to Provins, a charming medieval town just 80 km from Paris. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it immerses visitors in the atmosphere of old Champagne trade fairs with its ramparts, underground galleries, timber-framed houses, and the famous Caesar Tower.
In 2025, don’t miss the medieval festivals, bird of prey shows, and delicious rose-based products like syrup, honey, candies, and jams.
🚆 How to get there: Transilien line P from Gare de l’Est to Provins (approx. 1h25)
More info at provins.net
3. Rouen: A City of Art and History
Head northwest to Rouen, the historical capital of Normandy, located 130 km from Paris. Famous for its Notre-Dame Cathedral, medieval streets, the astronomical clock (Gros Horloge), and of course Joan of Arc, Rouen is a city full of charm.
Every summer, the cathedral façade lights up with a free sound and light show — a regional highlight! In 2025, contemporary art exhibitions will also enrich the city’s museums.
🚆 How to get there: Intercités train from Gare Saint-Lazare to Rouen Rive Droite (approx. 1h20)
More info at rouentourisme.com
4. Fontainebleau: Between Castle and Forest
Less than an hour from Paris, Fontainebleau is the perfect destination combining royal heritage and lush nature. Its Renaissance palace, home to 34 monarchs, features ceremonial rooms, imperial apartments, and several museums. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Surrounded by a 25,000-hectare national forest, Fontainebleau is also popular for hiking, cycling, bouldering, and outdoor family fun.
🚆 How to get there: Transilien line R from Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon (40 min), then Bus Line 1 (15 min)
More info at chateaudefontainebleau.fr
5. Compiègne & Pierrefonds: History and Nature North of Paris
Less than an hour by train, Compiègne offers a unique mix of history, nature, and culture. Explore the Imperial Palace, its majestic forest, and the Armistice Memorial, an important WWI site.
A few kilometers away lies Pierrefonds Castle, restored by Viollet-le-Duc. It looks straight out of a fairy tale and is said to have inspired Cinderella’s castle.
🚆 How to get there: TER train from Gare du Nord to Compiègne (approx. 50 minutes)
More info at compiegne-tourisme.fr.
Summary
| Destination | Travel Time | Perfect for… |
|---|---|---|
| Versailles | 30 min | Royal history & gardens |
| Provins | 1h25 | Medieval charm & local treats |
| Rouen | 1h20 | Architecture & Norman culture |
| Fontainebleau | 40 min | Castle & outdoor activities |
| Compiègne | 50 min | Heritage & forest escapes |
Bonus: Giverny, Monet’s Garden 🌸
For a peaceful nature escape, visit Giverny, home to Claude Monet’s house and garden. It’s the perfect place to admire water lilies, Japanese bridges, and soak up the impressionist atmosphere.
Read our full article about Giverny
✨ Tip for 2025: Book your train tickets and entry passes in advance, especially on weekends and public holidays. Many destinations offer day pass combos (train + entry) at discounted prices.
Looking for accommodation in Paris? Explore our selection of furnished apartments in the city’s best neighborhoods.
