If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, grandeur, and scenic beauty, the Palace of Versailles is a must-visit. Brian and I went there, and I was absolutely blown away by how massive and magnificent it is. For that reason, I always tell people who are planning to visit Paris not to miss it. Just a quick train ride from Paris, Versailles is a fantastic way to dive into France’s royal history.
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles was originally a hunting lodge for King Louis XIII and, over time, became one of the most lavish palaces you’ll ever see.
I was blown away by the stunning rooms, especially the Hall of Mirrors where the Treaty of Versailles was signed. Not only that, the whole place is a masterpiece with its gilded ceilings, intricate tapestries, and sparkling chandeliers.
And it’s not just the palace that’s impressive. The Gardens of Versailles are stunning.
You can wander through perfectly manicured lawns, check out the elegant fountains, and take in the beauty of the extensive flowerbeds. If you’d like to relax and take in the views, bring a picnic or take a boat ride on the Grand Canal.
One of the best parts of the visit, and my favorite area of the estate, was the Hamlet of Marie Antoinette, a charming retreat on the palace grounds. Marie Antoinette used it as an escape from royal life (because I’m sure royal life was really tough). It’s filled with rustic cottages, a quaint little farm, and more lovely gardens.
It’s a nice contrast to the grandeur of the palace and therefore a perfect spot for a quiet walk.
Whether you’re into French history or just want a day out surrounded by incredible scenery, Versailles is a fantastic choice. It’s an easy trip from Paris and offers a really interesting vantage point into France’s royal past.
Useful Tips: Wear comfortable walking shoes and don’t go on Mondays, as they are closed.
How to get there:
- Start at Gare Saint-Lazare: Head to the Saint-Lazare train station in central Paris. This is one of the major railway hubs in the city.
- Take the RER C Line: Look for the RER C train line, which is part of Paris’s commuter rail network. Trains on this line will take you to Versailles. Take the train heading towards “Versailles Château – Rive Gauche” station. The ride is approximately 40 minutes.
- Exit at Versailles Château – Rive Gauche: Once you arrive at the Versailles Château – Rive Gauche station, follow the signs to exit the station. The Palace of Versailles is about a 10-minute walk from here and you will find ample signs posted showing the way.
Champagne
If you’re looking for a memorable and fun day trip, the Champagne region is the perfect escape. My girlfriends and I decided to spend a day exploring Champagne, and it turned out to be an amazing adventure.
We kicked things off in Reims, a charming city right in the heart of Champagne country.
Reims has this lovely historic vibe with its beautiful architecture and bustling city life. We strolled around and admired the grand Reims Cathedral, where French kings were once crowned. It’s an impressive sight and definitely worth a visit if you have time.
After taking in the sights, we headed over to Veuve Clicquot, one of the most famous Champagne houses in the world.
Walking through their cellars was like stepping into a different world—dark, cool, and filled with rows and rows of bottles. We learned all about the history of Veuve Clicquot and how they’ve been perfecting their Champagne for centuries. Of course, the best part was the tasting. Sipping on their well-known bubbly while taking in the surroundings was truly a treat.
Next, we headed to Taittinger, another top-notch Champagne house.
The experience here was just as impressive. We explored their historic cellars, which have a rich, storied past, and enjoyed another tasting of their exquisite Champagne. It was fascinating to see the differences in production methods and taste the unique flavors that each house brings to their Champagne.
Overall, the Champagne tour was a fantastic way to dive into the world of Champagne. It’s not just about the tasting, though that’s definitely a highlight. It’s also about immersing yourself in the history and craftsmanship that go into making these world-renowned sparkling wines. If you’re a fan of Champagne or just looking to experience a different side of France, then this day trip is an absolute must.
How to get there:
- Start at the Paris Gare de l’Est
- Take the TVG Train destination Reims Ville. The ride is approximately 45 minutes.
- To get to Veuve Clicquot: You can either walk the approximate 1-mile distance (20-25 minutes) or grab an Uber.
- To get to Taittinger: Walk the 0.75mile distance from Veuve to Taittinger (15 minutes) or grab an Uber.
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