A Day Trip Guide to the Suburbs of Paris: Provins, Fontainebleau, Mont Saint-Michel, Lille and Disneyland Paris

Paris, one of the most beloved tourist destinations, attracts millions of visitors each year with its iconic landmarks. Moreover, recent major events such as the Olympics and Fashion Week add a more fresh vibe to this romantic city. However, beyond the famous sights in the city center, there are many charming spots in the suburbs of Paris worth exploring on a day trip.

In this article, we'll introduce five delightful destinations: the medieval town of Provins, the majestic Palace of Fontainebleau, the enchanting Mont Saint-Michel, the artistic city of Lille, and Disneyland Paris. Each of these places offers a unique experience, whether you're interested in history, scenic views, or a day of fun.

Provins

Provins, located about 80 kilometers south of Paris, is a well-preserved medieval town known for its unique historical atmosphere and ancient architecture. Once an important trading center in France, Provins is now a popular destination for exploring medieval French culture. The town's highlights include the Caesar Tower and the Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church. The Tour César, a 12th-century watchtower, offers panoramic views of the town, while the Romanesque church La Collégiale Saint-Quiriace is famous for its impressive architecture and beautiful stained glass windows.

Provins is especially vibrant during the lavender season from June to August. During the lavender season, the town's streets are lined with stalls selling handmade crafts, delicious food, and lavender products like perfumes, scents, and oils. The combination of medieval history and the fragrant lavender atmosphere makes Provins a top choice for a day trip from Paris.

Transportation from Paris to Provins

Take a TGV train from Paris Montparnasse to Gare d'Aix en Provence. Tickets range from €15 to €25, and the journey takes about 3 hours.

Provins, resource:Provins Tourism

Fontainebleau

The Palace of Fontainebleau, located to the north of Paris, is one of France's most magnificent royal palaces. It has been home to many French monarchs, including Louis VII and Napoleon III. What's more,The Palace of Fontainebleau was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. The palace's architecture blends Renaissance and classical styles, with exquisite interiors and stunning gardens that showcase its historical significance.

The palace complex includes the château, courtyards, and expansive forests, covering over 130 square kilometers. One of the most notable features is the Galerie François, a 60-meter-long gallery adorned with elaborate frescoes and carvings, a masterpiece of French Renaissance art. The gardens, spanning approximately 17,000 hectares, combine French and English design elements, making them a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

Tickets: €14

Audio Guide Rental: €4

Opening Hours:Wednesday to Monday, 9:30 to 17:00

Transportation from Paris to Fontainebleau

Take the R line from Paris Gare de Lyon to Fontainebleau-Avon station, then transfer to bus number 1 to the Château stop.

Fontainebleau, resource:Sortir Paris

Disneyland Paris

Located in the Greater Paris area, just about 30 kilometers from the city center, Disneyland Paris is Europe's only Disney resort. Since its opening in 1992, it has attracted countless visitors.

The resort consists of two main parks: Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. Disneyland Park is filled with classic fairy tale elements, including Sleeping Beauty Castle, Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Discoveryland. Walt Disney Studios Park, on the other hand, focuses on movies and animation, offering attractions and shows inspired by Disney films. Visitors can explore Toy Story Playland, Ratatouille: The Adventure, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, among other attractions.

Disneyland Paris offers a wide range of accommodation options. In LuggAgent’s previous article, there is an article that introduces three different hotels near Paris Disney, from luxury Disney hotels to budget-friendly resorts, catering to different needs.

Transportation from Paris to Disneyland Paris

From Paris city center, take the RER to Marne-la-Vallée/Chessy station. It's a two-minute walk to the park.

You can use convenient luggage transfer services like LuggAgent to safely and quickly deliver your bags to your hotel.

Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel, located at the border of Normandy and Brittany, is a rocky island renowned for its stunning abbey and historic town. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a pilgrimage site for Christians and is also one of France's most famous landmarks, attracting visitors from around the globe.

The island's most iconic structure is the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, built in the 11th century. The abbey's architecture combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance elements, with intricate vaults, carvings, and stained glass windows showcasing incredible craftsmanship and artistry.

Mont Saint-Michel is also known for its dramatic tidal changes. Surrounded by vast sandy flats and tidal waters, the island becomes isolated during high tide and connected to the mainland during low tide, offering a unique and magical experience.

Transportation from Paris to Mont Saint-Michel

Take a TGV train from Paris Montparnasse to Rennes, then transfer to a bus to Mont Saint-Michel. The journey takes about 3 hours.

Mont Saint-Michel, resource:CN Traveller

Lille

Lille, often referred to as the art capital of northern France, is a hub of art, culture, and history. The city's rich history dates back to the medieval period, and it was an important trading center in the Flanders region. Notable attractions include the Old Stock Exchange (La Vieille Bourse), the Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, and the Old Stock Exchange.

The Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille is one of France's most important museums, which houses a vast collection of European paintings, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts from the Renaissance to modern art. The museum features works by masters like Rubens, Goya, Millet, and Rodin, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

Palais des Beaux-Arts de Lille, resource: CN Traveller

While exploring Lille, don't forget to try the local cuisine. Due to its geographical location, Lille's food culture is influenced by both French and Belgian traditions, offering a mix of refined and special dishes. Traditional Lille specialties include carbonade flamande (a beef stew), waffles (gaufres), and maroilles cheese tart (La Tarte au Maroilles), as well as various seafood dishes.

Transportation from Paris to Lille

Take a train from Paris Gare du Nord to Lille Flandres. Ticket costs €27.5, and the journey takes about an hour.

Exploring the suburbs of Paris offers a rich and diverse experience, adding a new dimension to your Parisian adventure. Whether you're interested in the medieval charm of Provins, the royal grandeur of Fontainebleau, the breathtaking views of Mont Saint-Michel, the artistic atmosphere of Lille, or the magical fun of Disneyland Paris, each destination has something unique to offer. These suburban sites not only provide natural beauty and cultural history but also allow you to experience the broader charm of France. Whether you're a history buff, an art lover, or simply seeking adventure and entertainment, you'll find joy and inspiration in these remarkable places. When planning your trip to Paris, consider including these nearby gems for a journey filled with surprises and lasting memories.