When planning a trip to France, the city of Paris is often the first destination that comes to mind. And rightfully so, as it’s a city steeped in history, art, and romance. However, there’s more to France than just the capital city. In fact, there are many charming towns and cities outside of Paris that offer a unique and authentic French experience. From the picturesque countryside to the rugged coastline, France has a wealth of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Get ultimate traveler plannerBest Places To Stay Outside Of Paris
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best places to stay outside of Paris, covering a range of options from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s start our journey and discover the best places to stay outside of Paris.
Reims: The Champagne Capital
Located just an hour and a half from Paris, Reims is a city steeped in history and champagne. Visit the stunning Reims Cathedral, where many French kings were crowned, and indulge in a champagne tasting at one of the many local vineyards. Reims has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
Annecy: The Venice of the Alps
Nestled in the French Alps, Annecy is a charming town known for its canals, cobblestone streets, and stunning mountain views. Visit the Château d’Annecy, a 14th-century castle that now serves as a museum, and take a boat ride along the Thiou River. Annecy has a range of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels.
Bordeaux: The Wine Capital
Bordeaux is a city famous for its wine production, with many world-class vineyards and wine tastings available. Visit the stunning Cathedral of Saint Andrew and the Place de la Bourse, a beautiful square surrounded by cafes and shops. Bordeaux has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels.
Normandy: The D-Day Beaches
Normandy is a region in northern France known for its stunning coastline and rich history. Visit the D-Day beaches, where Allied forces landed during World War II, and explore the charming towns of Honfleur and Deauville. Normandy has a range of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs to luxury hotels.
These are just a few of the many amazing places to stay outside of Paris. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, there’s something for everyone in France. So, start planning your trip today and discover the best places to stay outside of Paris!
Best Places To Stay Outside Of Paris
When it comes to visiting Paris, many tourists flock to the city center, but there are many other charming towns and villages just outside the city limits that are worth exploring. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best places to stay outside of Paris, from quaint villages to charming towns and even rural retreats.
Reims
Located about an hour and a half east of Paris, Reims is a beautiful city that’s steeped in history and culture. The city is famous for its stunning cathedral, which is the site of many French coronations, including that of Charles de Gaulle. Visitors can also explore the city’s charming old town, which is filled with half-timbered houses, charming streets, and picturesque squares. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Inverness)
Reims is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, which is known for its vineyards and champagne cellars. Visitors can take a guided tour of a champagne house, learn about the production process, and of course, sample some of the famous bubbly.
Fontainebleau
Located about an hour south of Paris, Fontainebleau is a charming town that’s famous for its stunning forest and its beautiful chateau. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to hike, bike, and rock climb in the surrounding forest.
The town itself is also worth exploring, with its charming streets, picturesque squares, and beautiful architecture. Visitors can also explore the town’s many museums and galleries, which showcase the town’s rich history and culture.
Provins
Located about an hour southeast of Paris, Provins is a charming medieval town that’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including its half-timbered houses, charming streets, and picturesque squares.
Visitors can explore the town’s many historic landmarks, including its 12th-century cathedral, its 14th-century town hall, and its many charming shops and cafes. The town is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, which is known for its vineyards and wine production.
Les Sables-d’Olonne
Located on the west coast of France, Les Sables-d’Olonne is a charming seaside town that’s famous for its beautiful beaches and its vibrant cultural scene. The town is a popular destination for surfers, who come to ride the waves at the town’s many beaches.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many cultural attractions, including its many museums and galleries, its beautiful botanical garden, and its vibrant music scene. The town is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, which is known for its beautiful countryside and its many charming villages. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Paris France)
Chantilly
Located about an hour north of Paris, Chantilly is a charming town that’s famous for its stunning chateau and its beautiful gardens. The chateau is a must-see attraction, with its stunning architecture, beautiful art collection, and its many historic landmarks.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many cultural attractions, including its many museums and galleries, its beautiful botanical garden, and its vibrant music scene. The town is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, which is known for its beautiful countryside and its many charming villages.
Annecy
Located in the French Alps, Annecy is a charming town that’s famous for its stunning lake and its beautiful mountains. The town is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, who come to hike, bike, and ski in the surrounding mountains.
Visitors can also explore the town’s many cultural attractions, including its many museums and galleries, its beautiful botanical garden, and its vibrant music scene. The town is also a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside, which is known for its beautiful countryside and its many charming villages.
Table of Best Places to Stay Outside of Paris
| Location | Distance from Paris | Must-see attractions | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reims | 1.5 hours | Cathedral, champagne cellars | History, culture, champagne |
| Fontainebleau | 1 hour | Forest, chateau | Outdoor enthusiasts, history |
| Provins | 1 hour | Medieval architecture, vineyards | History, culture, wine |
| Les Sables-d’Olonne | 3 hours | Beaches, cultural attractions | Surfers, beach lovers, culture |
| Chantilly | 1 hour | Chateau, gardens | History, culture, gardens |
| Annecy | 4 hours | Lake, mountains | Outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers |
In conclusion, there are many great places to stay outside of Paris, each with its own unique charm and attractions. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, there’s something for everyone. By considering these options, you can experience the best of France without the crowds and chaos of the city center.
Recap
We’ve explored some of the best places to stay outside of Paris, from charming villages to beautiful towns and rural retreats. Each of these destinations offers a unique experience, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting. By considering these options, you can experience the best of France without the crowds and chaos of the city center.
Here are five FAQs related to “Best Places To Stay Outside Of Paris”:
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some popular destinations outside of Paris that offer a unique experience?
Some popular destinations outside of Paris that offer a unique experience include the French Riviera, the Loire Valley, and the Dordogne region. Each of these destinations offers a distinct charm and a chance to experience the beauty of France beyond the capital city. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Minneapolis)
What are some budget-friendly options for accommodation outside of Paris?
There are many budget-friendly options for accommodation outside of Paris, including guesthouses, hostels, and vacation rentals. Consider staying in smaller towns or cities, such as Annecy or Lyon, which offer a more laid-back atmosphere and lower prices than Paris. You can also look for apartments or houses through websites like Airbnb or VRBO.
How do I get to these destinations from Paris?
The easiest way to get to these destinations from Paris is by train. The French rail network, SNCF, offers frequent trains to many destinations outside of Paris. You can also take a bus or drive, but trains are generally the most convenient and efficient option. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to ensure availability and get the best prices.
What are some must-see attractions outside of Paris?
Some must-see attractions outside of Paris include the Palace of Versailles, the Château de Chambord, and the medieval city of Carcassonne. The French Riviera is also home to many stunning beaches and picturesque towns like Saint-Tropez and Cannes. The Loire Valley is famous for its stunning châteaux, such as Château de Chenonceau and Château de Chambord.
Can I still experience French culture and cuisine outside of Paris?
Yes, you can still experience French culture and cuisine outside of Paris. Many of the destinations mentioned above offer a range of French restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can try local specialties and drinks. You can also visit museums, galleries, and cultural events to learn more about French history and culture. Additionally, many of the towns and cities outside of Paris have their own unique cultural traditions and festivals, which are worth exploring.
