When planning a trip to Paris, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the city and forget about the many wonderful places to stay outside of Paris. However, exploring the surrounding areas can offer a unique and memorable experience that is well worth the effort. From charming villages to stunning natural landscapes, there is no shortage of options for those looking to escape the city. In this article, we will explore some of the best places to stay outside of Paris, providing an overview of what each location has to offer and why it is worth considering for your next trip.
The Importance of Exploring Outside of Paris
Paris is an incredible city with a rich history, culture, and cuisine. However, there is so much more to see and do in France beyond the city limits. By exploring outside of Paris, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s diversity and beauty. Additionally, staying outside of the city can often be more affordable, providing you with more opportunities to experience all that France has to offer.
Château de Fontainebleau
Located just 35 miles southeast of Paris, the Château de Fontainebleau is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in French history and architecture. The palace has been a residence for French monarchs since the 12th century and is home to an impressive collection of art and furniture. The surrounding forest is also worth exploring, offering hiking trails, horseback riding, and rock climbing.
Why Stay Here?
Staying near the Château de Fontainebleau allows you to fully immerse yourself in the palace’s history and beauty. There are several charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area, providing you with a comfortable and convenient home base for your explorations. Additionally, the palace is easily accessible by train from Paris, making it a convenient day trip or overnight stay.
Château de Chantilly
Located just 25 miles north of Paris, the Château de Chantilly is a stunning example of French Renaissance architecture. The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens, lakes, and forests, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. The palace itself is home to an impressive art collection, including works by Raphael, Botticelli, and Delacroix.
Why Stay Here?
Staying near the Château de Chantilly allows you to enjoy the palace and its surroundings at your own pace. There are several hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area, providing you with a comfortable and convenient home base for your explorations. Additionally, the palace is easily accessible by train from Paris, making it a convenient day trip or overnight stay.
Giverny
Located just 50 miles west of Paris, Giverny is a charming village made famous by Claude Monet, who lived and worked there for many years. The village is home to Monet’s former home and gardens, which have been preserved and are open to the public. The gardens are particularly stunning in the spring and summer, when the flowers are in bloom.
Why Stay Here?
Staying in Giverny allows you to fully immerse yourself in Monet’s world and gain a deeper appreciation for his art. There are several charming hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area, providing you with a comfortable and convenient home base for your explorations. Additionally, Giverny is easily accessible by train from Paris, making it a convenient day trip or overnight stay.
Conclusion
Exploring outside of Paris can provide a unique and memorable experience that is well worth the effort. From charming villages to stunning natural landscapes, there is no shortage of options for those looking to escape the city. By staying near attractions like the Château de Fontainebleau, Château de Chantilly, and Giverny, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty and history of France.
Best Places To Stay Outside Paris
Paris, the city of love, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. However, there are many beautiful places to stay outside of Paris that are worth exploring. In this article, we will discuss some of the best places to stay outside of Paris, including Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Disneyland Paris. We will also provide information on the types of accommodations available, activities to do, and how to get there.
Versailles
Versailles is a town located about 12 miles west of Paris and is home to the famous Palace of Versailles. The palace was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 until the start of the French Revolution in 1789. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most visited attractions in France.
Accommodations
There are many accommodations available in Versailles, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Some of the top-rated hotels in Versailles include the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria Hotel, and the Hotel de France Versailles. For those on a budget, there are also several hostels and budget hotels available, such as the Hotel Le Versailles.
Activities
In addition to visiting the Palace of Versailles, there are many other activities to do in Versailles. Visitors can explore the town’s many gardens, including the Gardens of Versailles and the Palace of Versailles Estate. There are also several museums to visit, such as the Museum of the History of France and the Royal Tennis Court. For those looking for something more active, there are several golf courses and bike rental shops in the area.
Getting There
Versailles is easily accessible from Paris by train. The RER C line runs from Paris to Versailles, with stops at the Versailles Château-Rive Gauche and Versailles Chantiers stations. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau is a town located about 35 miles southeast of Paris and is home to the Château de Fontainebleau. The château was a residence for French monarchs from the 12th century until the 19th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Accommodations
There are many accommodations available in Fontainebleau, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Some of the top-rated hotels in Fontainebleau include the Aigle Noir Hotel and the Hostellerie du Bas-Breau. For those on a budget, there are also several hostels and budget hotels available, such as the Hotel du Castelet.
Activities
In addition to visiting the Château de Fontainebleau, there are many other activities to do in Fontainebleau. Visitors can explore the town’s many forests, including the Fontainebleau Forest, which is popular for hiking and rock climbing. There are also several museums to visit, such as the Museum of Napoleon I and the National Museum of Forestry. For those looking for something more active, there are several golf courses and horseback riding centers in the area.
Getting There
Fontainebleau is easily accessible from Paris by train. The Transilien line R runs from Paris to Fontainebleau, with stops at the Fontainebleau-Avon and Fontainebleau-Forêt stations. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Paris is a theme park located about 20 miles east of Paris and is the most visited theme park in Europe. The park has two main areas, the Disneyland Park and the Walt Disney Studios Park, and features many popular Disney characters and attractions.
Accommodations
There are many accommodations available at Disneyland Paris, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly options. Some of the top-rated hotels at Disneyland Paris include the Disneyland Hotel and the Disney’s Newport Bay Club. For those on a budget, there are also several value resorts available, such as the Disney’s Hotel Santa Fe and the Disney’s Hotel Cheyenne.
Activities
In addition to the many rides and attractions at Disneyland Paris, there are also several shows and parades to see. Visitors can also meet many popular Disney characters, such as Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck. For those looking for something more, there are several golf courses and spas in the area.
Getting There
Disneyland Paris is easily accessible from Paris by train. The RER A line runs from Paris to Disneyland Paris, with stops at the Marne-la-Vallée-Chessy station. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Recap
In this article, we discussed some of the best places to stay outside of Paris, including Versailles, Fontainebleau, and Disneyland Paris. We provided information on the types of accommodations available, activities to do, and how to get there. Whether you’re looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly option, there are many great places to stay outside of Paris. So, next time you’re planning a trip to Paris, consider staying in one of these beautiful towns and making the most of your trip.
FAQs: Best Places to Stay Outside Paris
Where can I find charming villages near Paris?
Some of the most charming villages near Paris include Auvers-sur-Oise, Barbizon, and Giverny. These villages offer a glimpse into French countryside living, and are home to beautiful gardens, museums, and historic sites.
What are some budget-friendly options for staying outside of Paris?
There are several budget-friendly options for staying outside of Paris, including hostels, budget hotels, and vacation rentals. Consider staying in a suburb like Saint-Denis, Montreuil, or Issy-les-Moulineaux, which offer affordable accommodations and easy access to the city center.
Are there any family-friendly options for staying outside of Paris?
Yes, there are many family-friendly options for staying outside of Paris. Consider staying in a vacation rental or a hotel with a pool, or look for accommodations near popular family attractions like Disneyland Paris or the Château de Versailles.
What are some romantic options for staying outside of Paris?
For a romantic getaway, consider staying in a château or a countryside inn outside of Paris. Some popular options include the Château de la Bourdaisière, the Château de Chambord, and the Château de Chenonceau. These properties offer luxurious accommodations, beautiful gardens, and historic charm.
What are some sustainable options for staying outside of Paris?
For those looking for sustainable accommodations, consider staying at an eco-friendly hotel or vacation rental outside of Paris. Look for properties that have implemented sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and supporting local communities.