10 Unforgettable Day Trips from Paris by Train

Planning a trip to Paris with kids? You’re probably already feeling overwhelmed by all the options—museums, croissants, parks, and more. But what if you could escape the city for a day, show your children a castle, a medieval town, or even Monet’s real-life garden… without renting a car?

As a mom of two who’s navigated French train stations with a stroller and snacks in hand, I know how crucial it is to find easy, efficient, and worthwhile day trips from Paris that don’t leave you exhausted. In this guide, I’ll share 10 of our favorite day trips from Paris by train —all kid-approved, logistically smooth, and absolutely unforgettable.

From half-day jaunts to full-day adventures, here’s exactly how to explore beyond Paris without the stress.

Smart Tips for Day Trips from Paris with Kids

After taking multiple train trips around France with our two young kids, I’ve learned the hard way what makes (or breaks) a day trip from Paris. These quick tips will help you avoid meltdowns, missed trains, and hangry toddlers.

1. Leave early — but not too early.
The first morning train might sound like a good idea, but waking kids up before sunrise often backfires. Aim for around 9 AM departures so you’re not starting your day with cranky faces.

2. Pick your accommodation wisely.
If you know that you want to include a day trip in your Paris itinerary, choose an accommodation near a train station. You won’t want to lose an hour in the morning just to get to the train station that’ll take you to your fun destination. There are many kid-friendly areas centrally located that are filled with amazing hotels for families!

3. Book tickets in advance for popular spots.
Destinations like Versailles or Giverny can sell out—especially in spring and summer. Booking in advance not only saves you time, it helps you skip long lines with fidgety kids. I use Omio for easy train tickets and often grab museum/tour tickets on GetYourGuide.

4. Bring snacks—and backup snacks.
Even if your destination has charming cafés, you’ll want a few trusty granola bars or fruit packs on hand. France doesn’t always run on toddler schedules.

5. Don’t overplan.
Resist the urge to pack in 10 things. Pick 1–2 main attractions and allow time for a playground stop, an ice cream break, or a spontaneous discovery. The magic often happens in the unplanned moments.

6. Double-check return times (and check for strikes)
French trains are efficient—but not all routes have frequent returns. I always set an alarm to check return times before we leave our destination, just to be safe. Also. French trains are usually reliable, but transport strikes happen more often than you’d think — especially in summer and around holidays. I always look up several return options before we leave Paris, just in case one is cancelled or delayed.

💡 Learned the hard way: On a trip to Sintra in Portugal, we didn’t check ahead and got stranded for 3 hours with two cranky kids because of a last-minute strike. Since then, I always have a plan B (and C) when it comes to return trips.

Top 10 Day Trips from Paris by Train

1. Versailles

If you only do one day trip from Paris with kids, make it Versailles. I know it’s popular—but there’s a reason. Between the glittering palace halls, wide-open gardens, and swan-dotted canals, there’s something truly magical about it — even for little ones. Our daughter was mesmerized by the Hall of Mirrors, twirling underneath chandeliers and marveling at fireplaces so big she could literally stand inside one (she did—don’t worry, no fire). And while the ornate rooms wowed her, it was the gardens where she really came alive — running down endless pathways, feeding ducks, and climbing onto stone steps like she was royalty.

Getting to Versailles

Hop on the RER C train toward Versailles Château – Rive Gauche. It’s a quick 35–45 minute ride, and trains leave frequently. The train station is just a 10-minute walk from the Palace.

What we loved (and what we skipped)

Inside the main Palace, we focused on the key wow moments (the Hall of Mirrors is truly jaw-dropping), but we skipped some of the more crowded wings. Our favorite part? Renting bikes and riding through the Trianon gardens. The paths are flat, stroller-friendly, and our kids loved spotting hidden statues and fountains around every corner. We packed a picnic and camped out by the Grand Canal while the kids played with sticks and fed birds — it was honestly one of our most relaxing afternoons in France.

✨ Mom tip: Visit April–October if you can. The gardens come alive with music and fountains on special days — pure magic for kids who might otherwise get bored.

What to book

I highly recommend a skip-the-line timed entry for the Palace. Better yet, if your kids are old enough, consider a family-friendly guided tour or a garden-focused visit. It takes the pressure off and keeps everyone engaged.

Getting back to Paris from Versailles

Trains run often, but it’s always smart to double-check return times before you leave. Especially on weekends or strike-prone days, I like to have at least two options mapped out.

Most families planning a trip to Paris include a day trip to Versailles on their itinerary.

2. Caen

Caen might not be on every tourist’s radar, but it should be—especially if your kids are into castles, tanks, or stories of real-life heroes. It’s about 2 hours from Paris by train, and gives you a full day to explore at a slower pace, far from the Paris crowds.

My husband (a history buff) loved the Mémorial de Caen museum, one of the best World War II museums in Europe. Our kids were surprisingly into the exhibits — there’s a whole interactive area that helped explain WWII events in a way that wasn’t too intense or scary.

Another top attraction for families planning a day trip to Caen is climbing to the top of Caen Castle. It was built by William the Conqueror in the 11th century, and it’s pretty impressive!

And while most of the story is told inside the museum, if you’re staying overnight in Caen or renting a car, the D-Day landing beaches are just a 30–45 minute drive away. Visiting Omaha Beach or the American Cemetery is incredibly moving, and gives deeper context to what you’ve just seen. For families with older kids or teens, it can be a powerful experience.

🚗 Want to see the beaches? Rent a car from Caen city center (or train station) and drive west toward Colleville-sur-Mer for Omaha Beach. Allow at least half a day to explore — and bring snacks, as options are limited along the coast.

Caen itself is just as rewarding for little travelers: a real medieval castle to climb, winding cobblestone streets, and cozy cafés for snack breaks (don’t miss Le P’tit Chou Normand for the cream puffs!). It ended up being one of our most meaningful—and surprisingly kid-friendly — days in France.

Getting to Caen from Paris

Take a direct train from Paris Gare Saint-Lazare to Caen. The ride takes about 2 hours, so I recommend packing a light breakfast and downloading a show or two for the kids. We booked our tickets on Omio a few weeks before — it was smooth and easy.

Both high-speed TGV (Train à Grande Vitesse) and regional TER (Transport Express Régional) trains operate between Paris and Caen. The TGV offers faster travel times, while TER trains provide a more leisurely and scenic ride.

From the train station, you can easily reach Caen’s city center on foot or by public transportation.

Main attractions for Families

Aside from the museum, the city is easy to walk and full of little surprises: a real medieval castle right in the center of town, winding streets lined with crêperies, and plenty of green space to let kids roam. My son still talks about climbing the old ramparts at Château de Caen and pretending he was a knight defending his tower. There’s also a great carrousel near Place Saint-Sauveur if you need a bribe at the end of the day.

✨ Mom tip: If you’re bringing a stroller, expect a few cobblestones but nothing overwhelming. We managed fine with our compact travel stroller.

Food break

We stumbled into Le P’tit Chou Normand while looking for a place to rest our feet—and it turned into a highlight. Think flaky pastries, dreamy Norman cream puffs, and the coziest little nook to recharge. The kids shared a hot chocolate and picked out a chou each (they still argue over whose was better), while my husband and I sipped café crèmes and regrouped for the afternoon. It felt like the kind of place locals actually go—and now I dream about those choux à la crème.

Getting back to Paris from Caen

Return trains are straightforward, but as always — check the schedule and make sure there are a few options in case of delays or strikes. The station is walkable from the center, but if little legs are tired, taxis are easy to grab.

3. Disneyland Paris

If you’re planning a day trip from Paris by train that’s all about the kids, Disneyland Paris is the no-brainer — and yes, it can be done in a single day without staying overnight. We’ve done it, and while it was definitely a full day, it was totally manageable (and magical!) even with young kids in tow. In fact, if you’re traveling with a toddler to Paris – Disneyland is a must!

From the moment we stepped off the train and saw the pink towers of the Disneyland Hotel, my kids were bouncing with excitement. And honestly? So was I.

Getting to Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris is in Marne-la-Vallée, about 40 minutes from central Paris on the RER A line. Trains run frequently from stations like Châtelet-Les Halles or Gare de Lyon, and drop you right at the park entrance. We bought our train tickets via Omio, which let us skip the station machines with our kids in tow.

After exiting the train station, you’ll find yourself in the Disney Village area, where you can see the iconic Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park entrances. Simply follow the crowds (or the signs!) towards the parks, and you’ll soon be immersed in the magic of Disneyland Paris!

How to manage it as a day trip

You don’t have to do everything to make the day magical. We focused on Fantasyland, which is perfect for younger kids — no huge lines, familiar characters, and classic rides like Peter Pan’s Flight and It’s a Small World. The parade was a highlight, and both kids crashed during the train ride back to Paris.

✨ Mom tip: Don’t overplan your park day. Choose 5–6 “must-dos” and leave room for snacks, bathroom breaks, and spontaneous fun.

What to book

Get your tickets in advance!!! Booking same-day at the gate can be risky — tickets can sell out, especially on weekends or holidays. If you’re going during a busy time, consider Premier Access (Disney’s version of FastPass) to skip lines on key rides.

Food & downtime

There are tons of food options, but the lines get long around noon. We did lunch early (11:15) at Bella Notte, which had pasta, high chairs, and shaded outdoor seating. Also, don’t miss the playground near Adventureland — it’s a perfect break if your little ones get overstimulated.

Getting back to Paris

RER A trains run late, but they do get crowded around park closing. We left after the afternoon parade and snagged seats easily. As always, check for transport updates in case of strikes or delays.

Disneyland paris vs Disney World or Disneyland (U.S.):
If you’ve been to Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California, just know that Disneyland Paris is smaller — but in the best way. You can do most of the highlights in one day, which makes it ideal for a quick family trip. It’s a bit more relaxed, with a distinct European vibe (yes, even the Mickey waffles feel fancier). And while the castle is different, it’s honestly gorgeous — our daughter still calls it “the Sleeping Beauty one with the forest inside.”

4. Giverny (Monet’s Home)

Okay, so we haven’t made it to Giverny yet — but it’s been on my wishlist forever, and it keeps popping up in family travel groups as the relaxing day trip from Paris that’s actually fun for kids too. If you’ve got a kid who’s even remotely into flowers, drawing, or spotting frogs in lily ponds, this place sounds like a total win.

It’s the village where Claude Monet lived and painted for decades, and you can actually walk through the gardens that inspired his Water Lilies paintings. Think: weeping willows, a Japanese bridge, and so many flowers it’s kind of ridiculous. One mom I follow on Instagram called it “the calmest her kids were all trip”—and honestly, that’s all I needed to hear.

Getting to Giverny

You take the train from Paris Saint-Lazare to Vernon-Giverny (about 45 minutes), then there’s a shuttle bus that takes you the rest of the way (runs April to October). Super doable. Again, since it’s a popular day trip destination, I recommend grabbing train tickets in advance so you’re not messing with machines at the station while wrangling snacks.

When you arrive at Vernon station, you have a couple of options for reaching Giverny:

• Local Bus: Outside Vernon station, you’ll find local buses that operate between Vernon and Giverny. The journey takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and buses are timed to coincide with train arrivals.
• Taxi or Ride-sharing: Taxis are readily available outside Vernon station and offer a convenient and direct way to reach Giverny. Alternatively, you can use ride-sharing services like Uber.

Once you arrive in Giverny, you can easily explore the village on foot. The main attraction is Claude Monet’s House and Gardens, which is a short walk from the village center.

Kid-Friendly Activities

The big draw is Monet’s House and Gardens, and apparently it’s stroller-friendly outside but tight inside—so I’d go with a carrier if you’ve got a little one. I’ve heard kids love walking the paths, watching for frogs in the pond, and trying to spot the bridge from the paintings. If yours are like mine, they’ll probably want to pick every flower — so maybe bring a sketchbook and say, “draw it instead!”

There’s also a small Museum of Impressionism nearby that some families add in, but most say the garden alone is plenty for one visit.

Snack break

Everyone raves about La Parenthèse, the little café-restaurant right close to Monet’s house. It’s casual and has burgers and fries — what else do we need? It’s also perfect for families because it’s open all day from 10 AM to 10:30 PM everyday of the week – perfect for little kids who are not following the French eating schedule!

Getting back

This is one of those spots where trains are a bit more spaced out, so definitely check the return schedule before you leave the gardens. I’d also keep an eye out for any strike notices just in case (because, France).

5. Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is kind of like Versailles’ cooler, less intense cousin — just as grand, but with way fewer people and way more forest. We haven’t made it there ourselves yet, but it’s at the top of our list for next time because every family I’ve talked to who went came back raving about it.

The main draw is Château de Fontainebleau, a massive royal palace with 800 years of history—and unlike Versailles, you’re not elbowing through tour groups the entire time. Apparently the interiors are stunning (think: gold ceilings, velvet drapes, dramatic staircases), and the gardens are huge and chill, so you can let the kids run wild a bit.

But here’s the part that really sold me: it’s surrounded by a massive forest, perfect for post-palace energy burns. There are shaded walking trails, rocks to climb, and even places to picnic if the weather’s nice. Honestly, it sounds like the ideal balance of culture and kid chaos.

Getting to Fontainebleau

Take the train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon — it’s about 40 minutes, and trains run frequently. From the station, it’s a short bus or taxi ride to the château. You can book your train through Trainline (affiliate link) to make life easier.

What to do

Most families suggest skipping the deep-dive guided tours and doing the self-guided route inside the château. Then head straight to the gardens and nearby forest paths for some fresh air and downtime. If your kids are into animals, the small lake has swans—big hit from what I’ve read.

✨ Mom tip from other travelers: Bring snacks or even a packed lunch—the palace cafés can be pricey and hit-or-miss. The town itself has some cute bakeries, too.

Getting back to Paris

Trains back to Paris run often, but if you’re visiting during a strike season (spring and summer are prime time), check the return schedule in advance and have a backup plan.

6. Reims (Champagne Paradise!)

If you’re craving a grown-up day trip that still works with kids in tow, Reims totally delivers. It’s in the heart of France’s Champagne region, just 45 minutes from Paris by high-speed train, which makes it an easy win for families who want to explore somewhere new without dragging kids through hours of transit.

We haven’t been yet, but I’ve got it pinned for our next trip — for two main reasons: 1) bubbly, and 2) big, beautiful spaces that are easy to explore with kids. It’s a very walkable city with open plazas, quiet cafés, and just enough “wow factor” to keep everyone happy.

Getting to Reims

Take the TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Reims — only about 45 minutes! Book early to snag the best price and seats. Once you arrive, everything in the center is super walkable — no car or transfers needed.

What to do

Start with the Reims Cathedral — it’s massive, impressive, and perfect for wide-eyed kids who like looking up at stained glass windows and pretending they’re in a castle. There’s also a playground nearby, which is perfect for burning off wiggles before lunch.

If you’re into Champagne (and not juggling babies), several cellars offer short, daytime tours featuring champagne tasting — I’ve got my eye on Taittinger and Mumm, both of which are walkable from the station and come recommended by other traveling parents for being quick and not too fussy.

If you don’t want to do a full Champagne tasting, lots of spots offer glass-and-snack options, so you can sip while the kids snack. Très civilized.

Lunch stop

Try Le Crypto or Anna-S – La Table Amoureuse for local dishes that still have a kids’ menu (or at least fries). And there’s no shortage of cute bakeries around the cathedral square if your crew just wants sandwiches and pastries.

Getting back

TGV trains back to Paris run regularly, but — broken record here — check ahead if you’re visiting in spring or summer (a.k.a. peak strike season). We always check on the way there just to be safe.

7. Lyon (for Food Lovers!)

Lyon might sound like a stretch for a day trip, but if your family’s up for an adventure, this one’s a total gem. We haven’t done it yet with the kids, but it’s one of those places that keeps coming up in our research as actually worth the longer train ride. And with France’s high-speed trains? It’s not as crazy as it sounds.

From Paris, the TGV gets you there in about 2 hours, and it drops you right in the middle of one of France’s coolest cities—full of secret passageways (literally!), a beautiful old town, and some of the best food in the country. Don’t worry, it’s not all fancy Michelin-starred stuff — there are plenty of spots to grab fries, croissants, and crepes on the go.

Getting to Lyon

Catch a TGV from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Part-Dieu. It’s fast, comfortable, and scenic enough to keep everyone entertained for a bit. Book tickets early for the best prices — these routes can get pricey last minute.

What to do in a day

Spend your time in Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) — it’s super walkable and packed with charm. You can ride the funicular up to Fourvière Hill for amazing views (and a break from walking), then wander down through cobbled streets and little shops. If you want something a bit different, book a scenic cruise on the Saône River.

✨ Kid highlight: The funicular is like a mini train ride up the hill—ours would ride it all day if we let them.

Lunch plans? Lyon’s known for its food, but with kids, I’d keep it simple. Look for a classic “bouchon” if your crew’s adventurous, or hit up the covered Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse for a more casual food market vibe.

Getting back to Paris

Return trains run into the evening, but I’d grab a late-afternoon one so you’re not getting in too late with tired kiddos. As always, check the return schedule and keep an eye on any updates just in case.

8. Provins (Medieval Vibes!)

This is one of those spots that feels like it was made for families. Provins is a medieval town about 90 minutes from Paris, and when I say medieval—I mean knights, falconry shows, and massive stone gates. It’s like stepping straight into a fairytale.

We haven’t made it there (yet!), but it’s at the top of our next-trip list because every family I talk to raves about how fun it is with kids. It’s smaller and calmer than Paris, with tons of space to run around and enough history to keep adults happy, too.

Getting there

Trains run from Gare de l’Est to Provins, and take around 1.5 hours. It’s a direct ride, so no transfers—thank goodness. Again, Omio is your friend here.

What to do

The big draw is the UNESCO-listed medieval town center, where you can walk the ramparts, climb ancient towers, and even catch a live falconry show (yes, birds flying right over your head). There are also medieval festivals in summer that people say are a huge hit with kids—think costumes, street food, and jousting. How cool is that?

Pro Tip: You’ll want to check for French school holidays, especially in spring and fall. Prices go up and attractions get busier during local breaks.

Snack stop

There are plenty of crêperies and cafés right in the heart of town — just follow the scent of Nutella and melted cheese and you’ll land somewhere good.

Getting back to Paris

Trains aren’t as frequent in the evening, so definitely plan your return in advance. I’d aim for an early dinner in Provins, then head back before bedtime to avoid any meltdowns.

9. Brussels

Brussels isn’t just doable as a day trip from Paris by train—it’s a total change of pace, and you get to cross a country border. Our kids were thrilled just knowing we were “going to Belgium for lunch.” Honestly? So were we.

The city center is super walkable, full of fun food stops (hi, waffles and fries), and has just enough quirky charm to make it worth the 1.5-hour train ride.

Getting there

Hop on a Thalys high-speed train from Paris Gare du Nord to Brussels Midi — it’s about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and super comfy. Book your train tickets early for the best fares; they jump fast, especially on weekends.

What to do with kids in one day

Start at the Grand Place (one of the most beautiful squares in Europe — no exaggeration), then follow the comic book murals around town. You can even visit the Comic Strip Museum, which has interactive exhibits and plenty of Tintin references.

Other fun activities for families include a stop at the the Atomium, a futuristic structure, shaped like a giant atom, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. A hop-on hop-off bus tour is another amazing way to discover Brussels with kids!

✨ Kid favorite: Manneken Pis. Yes, the tiny peeing statue is somehow hilarious to kids. Ours made us circle back twice.

Stop for waffles at Maison Dandoy (pro tip: skip the touristy stands near the train station and go straight here) and, if time allows, stroll through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert for chocolate and window shopping.

Getting back

Trains run regularly, but again—strike risk is real. Always double-check schedules in the app before heading to the station.

10. Strasbourg, Alsace

If you’re dreaming of cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and a town that looks straight out of Beauty and the Beast, Strasbourg delivers. It’s a longer day trip, but totally worth it—especially if you want a blend of French and German culture in one walkable, kid-friendly place.

We haven’t made it there yet, but it’s near the top of our “next time” list because so many families say it’s one of their favorite train trips from Paris.

Getting to Strasbourg

Take a TGV from Paris Gare de l’Est to Strasbourg — it’s about 1 hour and 45 minutes and usually direct. The train station drops you close to the city center. Omio is great for booking these early.

What to do in a day

Wander through La Petite France, the most picturesque neighborhood with canals, old wooden buildings, and tons of charm. Even kids who are “over walking” seem to perk up here—there’s so much to look at.

You can also visit the Strasbourg Cathedral, which is stunning inside and out, and if your kids are into boats, hop on one of the Batorama canal cruises to see the city from the water.

☀️🛥️
The boat tour give you kids a solid 45 minutes of rest time while still sightseeing. Win-win.

Food stop

There are tons of family-friendly spots with Alsatian specialties like flammekueche (kind of like pizza but better). Many restaurants in Petite France are used to tourists with kids—just ask for a high chair and you’re golden.

Getting back to Paris

It’s a longer day, so plan an earlier return or bring pajamas for a train nap if your kids tend to crash hard in the evenings.

If you’re visiting Paris in December, make sure to add strasbourg to your itinerary as the city is home to one of the most famous christmas markets in the world!

FAQ: Family-Friendly Day Trips from Paris by Train

Final Tips for Planning a Day Trip from Paris with Kids

You don’t have to go far to make big memories — these easy day trips from Paris by train prove you can see castles, gardens, medieval towers, and even Mickey Mouse without ever renting a car. With the right destination (and some snacks), day trips with kids can be smoother than you’d think — and honestly, some might even be the highlight of your whole trip.

But I get it — how do you fit all this in without missing the Eiffel Tower or that café you saved on Instagram? Don’t worry, I’ve mapped it all out.

Start with my family-friendly 3-day Paris itinerary to cover the big sights (without burning out), and you’ll see exactly where a day trip makes sense. Spoiler: even with just 3 days, you absolutely have time for one of these easy escapes.