Paris is my all-time favourite city and a hub for international travel. Located in western Europe, France is bordered by Andorra, Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Italy, Monaco, Spain and Switzerland, and by the English Channel, the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. While visiting, many tourists hope to take day trips from Paris to other countries around Europe. This list explores several international day trips to countries near Paris which are within a 3-hour train ride from Paris.
If you’d prefer to stay closer to Paris, check out these amazing day trips, or this post if you’re looking to take weekend trips from Paris.
International Day Trips from Paris
Bruges, Belgium
Distance: 2 h 43 m
The medieval overtones of Bruges’ cobblestone streets lead to countless historical, architectural and artistic wonders. Marvel at ornate houses lining intricate canals, and understand why this is a favourite destination for all types of travellers. The whole city emanates an appreciation of the past, a love of the present, and enthusiasm for the future. Source: tripadvisor.ca
What to do:
- Browse the Historic Centre
- Take in the view from Rozenhoedkaai
- Go for a beer tasting at Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery
- Eat some chocolate at Choco-Story – The Chocolate Museum
- Browse some of the many museums including Torture Museum Oude Steen
- Shop for local wares at the Markt
- Admire the many cathedrals and churches
- Climb to the top of the Belfort tower
How to get from Paris to Bruges: Thalys Train from Paris Nord to Bruxelles Midi (1 h 22 min) then Belgian Railways Train from Bruxelles-Midi to Bruges (56 min)
Ghent, Belgium
Distance: 2 h 3 min
Belgium’s fourth-largest – and most beautiful city– is home to a quarter of a million people and a flourishing flower export trade. An important port, Ghent’s city center is a pedestrian area that is like a museum to early Flemish architecture and a testament to the city’s medieval might. Source: tripadvisor.ca
What to do:
- Visit Gothic sites such as St. Bavo’s Cathedral and the Castle of the Counts
- See works of Flemish masters at the Museum voor Schone Kunst.
- View the sights from the iconic St Michael’s Bridge
- Admire Ghent from above at the Belfry and Cloth Hall
- Tour the medieval Gravensteen Castle
- Stroll along the main queys, Graslei and Korenlei, in the historic city centre
- Learn about the history of mental health and psychiatry at Museum Dr. Guislain
How to get from Paris to Ghent: Thalys Train from Paris Nord to Bruxelles Midi (1h 22min) then Belgian Railways Train from Bruxelles-Midi to Gand-Saint-Pierre (29min)
Antwerp, Belgium
Distance: 2 h 3 min
Lively Antwerp is a hidden gem. Its medieval streets, Renaissance monuments and vibrant nightlife tend to be overshadowed by its reputation as center of the diamond trade and as the world’s fifth-largest port. Cycling is a popular choice for getting around this stylish Flemish city.
Source: tripadvisor.ca
What to do:
- Admire the Cathedral of Our Lady and climb 123m up the steeple
- Sample draft beer at the De Koninck Antwerp City Brewery
- Enjoy the Grote Markt, one of the most impressive squares in Europe
- See penguins, giraffes, elephants and more at the Antwerp Zoo
- Visit the stunning collection at the Antwerp Home of Diamonds
- Discover the many museums including the Rubens House, the Museum aan de Stroom, and the Red Star Line Museum
How to get from Paris to Antwerp: Thalys Train from Paris-Nord to Antwerpen-Centraal (2 h 3 min)
Brussels, Belgium
Distance: 1 h 23 min
Brussels is the capital of Belgium and a capital of the European Union. Brussels is known for its cuisine and gastronomy, as well as its historical and architectural landmarks. Unlike the tourist towns of Ghent and Bruges, Brussels is a hub for international organizations and governments.
What to do:
- Marvel at the unique and unmistakable Atomium
- Browse the many museums
- Enjoy the green space at Parc du Cinquantenaire
- Admire the stained glass windows at Cathedrale St-Michel et Ste-Gudule
- See the gothic architecture at Notre Dame du Sablon
- Visit the iconic bronze statue, Manneken Pis
- Fill up on waffles, chocolate, beer and other Belgian delicacies
- See the Town Hall illuminated at night in the Grand Place at the center of the city
How to get from Paris to Brussels: Thalys Train from Paris-Nord to Brussel-Zuid/Midi (1 h 23 mins)
Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
Distance: 2 h 12 min
Luxembourg is a small, landlocked country in western Europe. It is close to Paris, bordered by Belgium to the west and north, Germany to the east, and France to the south. Its capital, Luxembourg City, is a captivating contrast between old and new. Its past is celebrated by its World Heritage status, while its present sway is clear from its role as headquarters for several major European institutions. Small enough to explore on foot, this compact city offers a wealth of attractions.
Source: tripadvisor.ca
What to do:
- Pay your respects at the Luxembourg American Cemetery Memorial
- Visit the underground fortifications at Casemates du Bock
- Photograph the views from Citadelle du St-Esprit
- Stroll along Le Chemin de la Corniche and take in the views from what is known as the most beautiful balcony in Europe
- Listen to an organ concert on Saturday mornings at Cathedrale Notre Dame
- Tour the Grand Ducal Palace
- At the historic Fort Thüngen, visit the Museum of Modern Art Grand-Duc Jean
- Head to the North of the country to Vianden Castle, a large fortified castle
How to get from Paris to Luxembourg: TGV Train from Paris Est to Luxembourg (2 h 12 min)
London, United Kingdom
Distance: 2 h 26 min
One of the world’s most visited cities, England’s buzzing capital is well worth the visit and has so much to offer, from magnificent history and culture to cutting-edge fashion and food. Source: https://www.visitbritain.com
What to do:
- Ride the London Eye for 360° views of the city
- Catch a glimpse of royalty at Buckingham Palace
- See the Crown Jewels at the historic Tower of London
- Shop at the luxurious Harrods department store or one of many flea markets
- Take guided tours of both St. Paul’s Cathedral and Westminister Alley
- Learn about 2nd world war history at the Churchill War Rooms
- Visit well-known landmarks including Big Ben, Tower Bridge and the Houses of Parliament
- Attend a Shakespearean play at the Globe Theatre
- Discover some of the world’s most famous museums
- Escape the crowds at St. James’s Park and Hyde Park
How to get from Paris to London: Eurostar Train from Paris Nord Eurostar to London St. Pancras (2 h 26 min)
Have you taken any day trips from Paris to other countries? Where did you go? I’d love to hear about it in the comments section below!
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