From Champagne to Cliffs: 5 Easy Day Trips and Weekend Escapes from Paris

oliviazolke
Aug 20
5 min read

by Olivia Zolke

Paris is one of the most magical cities in the world, but one of the best parts about visiting is how easy it is to explore beyond the capital. Thanks to France’s high-speed train network and affordable bus routes, you can discover charming towns, historic cities, and even cross the border into Belgium in as little as one hour. Whether you have a single day to spare or a full weekend, these destinations make for the perfect escape from Paris.

1. Lille

If you’re looking for a mix of French and Flemish charm, Lille is the perfect choice. Just an hour away from Paris by high-speed train from Gare du Nord, it’s close enough for a spontaneous day trip but packed with enough character to keep you busy for a full weekend. Buses are also available, though they take about three to four hours, making the train the most efficient option.

Once you arrive, start your visit in the Grand Place, where you’ll be surrounded by striking Flemish-style architecture and lively cafés. The Palais des Beaux-Arts, often called France’s “second Louvre,” is a must for art lovers with its impressive collection. Be sure to wander through Vieux Lille, the old town, where cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and patisseries create a postcard-perfect atmosphere. And of course, don’t leave without sampling local specialties like Maroilles cheese or a hearty carbonnade flamande beef stew.

2. Reims (Champagne Region)

For champagne lovers, a trip to Reims is a dream come true. Located just 45 minutes from Paris Gare de l’Est by TGV, it’s one of the easiest day trips from the city. If you’re on a budget, buses are available and take around two hours, but the train is by far the most convenient way to get there.

Reims is most famous for its Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site where French kings were once crowned. After admiring the intricate Gothic details, continue your visit with a stop at the Palace of Tau, which houses treasures from the coronations. But the highlight of Reims for many visitors is its champagne heritage. Major houses like Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, and Pommery offer tours and tastings, giving you the chance to sip bubbly right at the source. Between history, architecture, and world-class champagne, Reims makes an unforgettable escape from Paris.

3. Rouen (Normandy Region)

If you love history and medieval architecture, Rouen is the kind of city that feels like stepping back in time. Trains from Paris Saint-Lazare will get you there in about an hour and fifteen minutes, while buses take closer to two hours. Either way, it’s an easy trip!

The city’s skyline is dominated by the Rouen Cathedral, famously painted by Monet, and its stunning Gothic façade is even more impressive up close. Don’t miss the Gros-Horloge, a Renaissance astronomical clock set on a charming pedestrian street. As you explore, you’ll wander past half-timbered houses and bustling squares that make the Old Town so picturesque. Rouen is also closely tied to the story of Joan of Arc, and you can learn more about her legacy at the Historial Jeanne d’Arc museum. Between its art, history, and charm, Rouen is an often-overlooked gem just outside Paris.

4. Étretat (coast of Normandy)

For breathtaking natural scenery, Étretat is one of the most stunning coastal escapes from Paris. While it’s slightly more complicated to reach than the other destinations, the payoff is well worth it. You can take a train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Le Havre in about two hours, then connect by local bus to Étretat in around 30 minutes. If you prefer flexibility, renting a car is also a great option, with a drive of about two and a half hours.

Étretat is famous for its dramatic chalk cliffs and natural arches, which rise majestically from the sea. The views from the coastal hiking trails are spectacular, especially if you follow the path for sweeping panoramas. Down in the village, you’ll find cozy restaurants serving crepes and fresh seafood, perfect for a post-hike meal. Whether you’re relaxing on the pebble beach or photographing the cliffs at sunset, Étretat offers a side of France that feels wild and completely different from Paris.

5. Brussels (+ Bruges, for a weekend trip)

Believe it or not, you can even take a quick trip to Belgium from Paris. Brussels is just 1 hour and 20 minutes away by Thalys train from Gare du Nord, which makes it completely doable as a day trip. Buses are also available and more budget-friendly, but since the journey takes about four hours, the train is a far better choice if you’re short on time.

In a single day, you can easily hit Brussels’ highlights: start at the Grand Place, one of Europe’s most beautiful squares, then grab a Belgian waffle before making your way to see the quirky Manneken Pis. If time allows, you could also visit the Atomium or the Royal Museums of Fine Arts. And of course, no trip to Brussels would be complete without sampling Belgian beer and chocolate.

If you’d like to stretch your trip into a weekend, Brussels makes a great base for seeing more of Belgium. Just one hour away by train is Bruges, a postcard-perfect city known for its canals, cobblestone streets, and medieval charm. You can climb the Belfry of Bruges, explore Markt square, and enjoy a pint at a historic brewery before heading back to Brussels for the evening. Whether you’re hopping over for the day or making a full weekend of it, Brussels (and Bruges) add a completely different flavor to your Paris trip.

Planning Your Escape: How to Book Transport and Stays Easily

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Ready to swap the crowds for calm? Once you’ve picked your ideal escape, here’s how to make planning a breeze:

Getting There: Book Your Train or Bus with Omio

Omio is an all-in-one platform that compares train and bus routes across France. Simply enter your departure city and your destination, and Omio will show you the fastest, cheapest, or most convenient options. It’s perfect for planning both regional train routes and bus options.

Finding the Right Place to Stay: Use Expedia or Hotels.com

For hotels, apartments, or cozy guesthouses in smaller towns, Expedia and Hotels.com offer reliable listings even in less-touristy areas. Filter by guest rating, amenities, or proximity to train stations. Booking a stay in advance can help secure better prices and options—especially during summer weekends when local festivals or markets draw visitors.

Pro Tip: Look for properties with free cancellation in case your plans change, and double-check whether your accommodation is walkable from the train or bus station!

Final Thoughts

Paris is magical on its own, but part of what makes it such a special place to visit is how many beautiful destinations are just a short train ride away. Whether you’re sipping champagne in Reims, wandering medieval streets in Rouen, hiking the cliffs of Étretat, or even hopping across the border to Belgium, Paris is the perfect base for unforgettable side trips. From quick day adventures to full weekend getaways, each of these destinations adds another layer to your Paris experience.

If you’re building your Paris itinerary, be sure to bookmark this guide, and for even more detailed travel tips, sign up for the PVR newsletter for insider guides straight to your inbox. Don’t forget to share this post with a friend who’s planning their own Paris trip!

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