6 Best Day Trips from Paris by Train (to other countries in Europe)

The city of Paris has no shortage of things to do, sights to see, food to eat, and culture to experience.

And if you’re visiting Paris, you might wonder why you’d even consider taking a day trip to another country when there’s already so much to see here?

The answer is simple: proximity and diversity.

Paris’s central location in Europe makes it easy to explore a range of unique cultures and landscapes, all within a day’s reach. This opportunity to briefly step into another country enriches your travel experience, offering a taste of Europe’s varied heritage without the need for extensive planning.

As someone who has lived in Paris for over five years, I’ve prepared a guide to the best international day trips from Paris – including how to get there and what to see and do.

I have personally explored each of these destinations and I’m excited to share my insights with you!

These trips have been carefully chosen to provide meaningful and enjoyable experiences. Whether you’re seeking scenic beauty, cultural encounters, or historical richness, this guide will lead you to the best places to visit for a memorable day trip from Paris to other countries in Europe.

⚡ Related read: Is Paris overrated?

1. Brussels, Belgium

🚄 Distance from Paris: 194 miles (312km) | 3hr 5min by train

If you’re looking for an easy day trip from Paris, consider hopping on a high-speed train to Brussels, Belgium. In just under three and a half hours, you’ll be transported from the heart of Paris to the exciting city center of Brussels. The vibrant capital city is known for its stunning architecture, lively atmosphere, and delicious cuisine.

It’s easily one of the best day trips from Paris by train to take!

To start your journey, head to one of Paris’ main train stations, Gare de Nord. Depending on where in Paris you’re staying, you can easily get here by metro or by catching an Uber. Here, you’ll find direct trains to Brussels operated by Thalys. The high-speed train will whisk you through the beautiful landscapes of Northern France and across the border into Belgium.

The average cost of a train ticket from Paris to Brussels is about $140 for a roundtrip ticket, but can increase depending on availability and time of year.

💡 Tip: Be sure to book your train ticket in advance to get the best prices and secure a seat!

Once you arrive in Brussels, it’s easy to navigate the city center on foot. A must-visit attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage site, Grand Place. This historic square is nothing short of spectacular, surrounded by opulent guildhalls, and enveloped in rich history.

Here are some of the best things to do in Brussels:

• Take a guided walking tour of the city
• Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the city center and visit the shops and local restaurants (Try the classic Belgian waffles and Belgian fries while you’re here!)
• See panoramic views of the city from the top of the Atomium and visit the Design Museum
• Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour of Brussels
• Take a Belgian Chocolate-Making Class with tastings

2. Bruges, Belgium

🚄 Distance from Paris: 186 miles (300km) | 2hr 30 min by train

Bruges is another charming city in Belgium, sometimes referred to as the “Venice of the North”. It’s just a train ride away from Paris and only about an hour away from the capital city of Brussels.

Bruges is a picturesque destination that offers a rich historical and cultural experience, making it an ideal day trip from Paris. It offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, picturesque canals, and delicious cuisine.

To get to Bruges from Paris, you can take a train which is the fastest and most convenient option. The journey takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, including a transfer in Brussels.

Remember to book your tickets in advance to secure the best price and seat availability! I always use Omio and Trainline to compare the best ticket prices and book train travel.

🎟️ P.S: This day trip tour to Bruges from Paris includes roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned bus from Paris, as well as an optional canal cruise in Bruges. This is a great option for those who want transportation and activities planned for them!

Once you arrive in Bruges, you’ll be greeted by its enchanting cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval buildings. Start your day by visiting the Belfry of Bruges, a historic bell tower offering panoramic views of the city. To reach the top, you’ll need to climb 366 steps, but the view is definitely worth the effort!

Next, explore the picturesque Market Square, which is surrounded by captivating guild houses. Here, you can browse through various souvenir shops, indulge in delicious Belgian waffles, or simply enjoy people-watching while sipping a locally brewed beer.

During your time in Bruges, be sure to sample some authentic Belgian cuisine. Some must-try dishes include stoofvlees (a Flemish beef stew), moules-frites (mussels and fries), and, of course, world-famous Belgian chocolate.

There are numerous chocolate shops scattered throughout the city, each offering a wide range of delightful treats to satisfy your sweet tooth.

🎟️ My recommendation: For foodies like me visiting Bruges, I always recommend doing a Belgian waffle-making class (this one even includes Belgian beer tasting!) or touring the Choco-Story Chocolate Museum to learn more about the city’s history with chocolate.

For a truly unforgettable experience, take a leisurely boat ride through Bruges’ enchanting canals. This will give you a unique perspective of the city and its stunning architecture. Many guided tours (like this one) offer a canal cruise option, which is highly recommended during your visit.

Don’t forget to visit the iconic Basilica of the Holy Blood, a remarkable church housing a revered relic believed to be a cloth stained with the blood of Christ.

3. London, United Kingdom

🚄 Distance from Paris: 292 miles (470km) | 2hrs 20 mins by train (Eurostar)

One of the most common international day trips to take from Paris is to London. A short journey on the high-speed Eurostar train connects Paris to London, the capital city of the United Kingdom.

The journey takes just over 2 hours, making it the perfect place for a day trip. You’ll be able to explore the rich history and famous landmarks that London has to offer with time left to get back to your hotel in Paris at the end of the day.

Start your London visit by immersing yourself in the beautiful blend of French history and British culture at the iconic British Museum. Housing over eight million artifacts, this museum offers a unique perspective on world history and allows you to come face to face with treasures such as the Rosetta Stone and the Elgin Marbles.

Of course, no visit to London would be complete without a trip to Buckingham Palace, the official residence of the British royal family. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the changing of the guard’s ceremony!

Just a short walk away, you can explore the stunning Westminster Abbey, a Gothic masterpiece that has been the setting for numerous royal weddings and coronations. And for those who love shopping, Oxford Street is a must-visit. Boasting over 300 shops and designer outlets, it’s an excellent place to pick up souvenirs or indulge in some retail therapy.

Here are some of the best things to do on a day trip to London:

• Take a Warner Bros studio tour of the Harry Potter set
• Take a ride on the London Eye Ferris Wheel
• Join a hop-on hop-off bus tour of London
• Take an afternoon tea cruise on the River Thames

The best time to take this trip depends on your preferences. London weather can be unpredictable, so make sure to pack an umbrella and check the forecast before your journey. Regardless of the season, London is one of the best places to visit for a day from Paris!

⚡ P.S. Check out my complete 1-day in London itinerary with a detailed breakdown of how to get to London from Paris, a full one-day itinerary, and my tips for maximizing your time in London on a day trip.

4. Luxembourg

🚄 Distance from Paris: 254 miles (408km) | 3.5 to 5 hours by train

One of the most underrated and often overlooked destinations for a day trip from Paris is Luxembourg.

Luxembourg is a small country with a population of about 640,000, but it’s known for being a very rich country with generous tax laws. Luxembourg City, the capital of the small country, is known for its rich history and stunning architecture.

To get there, you can simply purchase a train ticket and hop on a direct train from one of the main train stations in Paris. The direct journey takes around just three and a half hours, but can take up to five hours depending on if there are other stops on your train journey or not.

Once you arrive, head straight to the city center where you’ll find some of the best places to explore. From picturesque squares to impressive fortifications, you’ll be amazed at the sights this small town has to offer.

Here are some recommendations for your day trip:

• Visit the Bock Casemates: These underground tunnels offer a unique look into Luxembourg’s military past. With over 17 kilometers of passageways, there’s plenty to explore.
• Stroll around the Grund: This quaint neighborhood, nestled in the heart of the city, is lined with charming streets, local shops, and lovely cafes.
• Explore ancient castles and surrounding nature on a guided tour
• Admire the Notre-Dame Cathedral: The beautiful Gothic cathedral is a must-see when visiting Luxembourg City. Its stunning architecture and stained glass windows are sure to impress.
• Discover the Grand Ducal Palace: As the official residence of the Duke of Luxembourg, this palace is truly a gem of the city. Although access to the interior is limited, you can still admire the striking facade and take a photo.

5. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

🚄 Distance from Paris: 315 miles (507km) | 3.5-4.5 hrs by train

Just a short train ride away, you will find yourself in Amsterdam – the vibrant heart of the Netherlands. With its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and thriving art scene, it’s is a must-see destination for any traveler.

Amsterdam is a great place to visit and you should definitely spend more than one day here if you can. But if you’re only available for a day trip from Paris, it can easily be done with the right planning. To embark on your adventure, you can book a train ticket for one of the many direct trains that connect Paris to Amsterdam.

💡 Note: I highly recommend booking a direct bullet train from Paris to Amsterdam. There are other train options that are usually cheaper, but they have stops along the way and can take up to five or six hours.

The direct bullet train journey takes approximately 3.5 hours, allowing you to make the most of your day trip. Trains typically depart from Gare du Nord station in Paris and arrive at Amsterdam Centraal, which is ideally located in the city center.

Once in Amsterdam, you’ll find yourself surrounded by countless exciting attractions. For art lovers, the city is home to renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum. You can also explore the picturesque Jordaan neighborhood, where you’ll find authentic Dutch charm and plenty of boutiques, galleries, and cozy cafés.

Here are some best places to visit in Amsterdam during your day trip:

• The Anne Frank House
• The Heineken Experience
• Vondelpark
• The Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt)
• Canal boat cruise

Be sure to venture beyond the city center too. Zaanse Schans, for example, is a beautiful historic village just a short train ride from Amsterdam, well worth exploring for its iconic windmills and traditional crafts.

6. Rotterdam, The Netherlands

🚄 Distance from Paris: 278 miles (448km) | Approx. 3hrs by train

If you’re looking for an adventurous day trip from Paris, consider hopping on a train to the vibrant city of Rotterdam in The Netherlands. Located just a short 3-hour train ride from Paris, you can conveniently explore this modern and dynamic city in just one day.

Rotterdam is famous for its innovative architecture and design, which sets it apart from other European cities. Upon your arrival, you’ll be greeted by the stunning Erasmus Bridge, nicknamed “The Swan.” The dramatic suspension bridge spans the Maas River, connecting the northern and southern parts of the city. It’s a remarkable sight and the perfect welcome to Rotterdam.

As you wander through the city streets, you’ll be amazed by the unique blend of old and new architecture. Rotterdam boasts some of the most avant-garde buildings in Europe, such as the iconic Cube Houses and the eye-catching Market Hall.

🎟️ Activity Tip: I recommend heading to the top of the Euromast Tower – standing at over 330ft tall, it’s the tallest building in Rotterdam and offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck!

Besides its architectural wonders, Rotterdam is a cultural hub teeming with art galleries, museums, and street art. The renowned Kunsthal Museum is the perfect place to observe and appreciate a vast array of contemporary art.

The city also offers cozy cafes and diverse restaurants, where you can indulge in authentic Dutch cuisine.

Here’s a quick itinerary for your day trip to Rotterdam:

1. Depart from Paris on a high-speed train to Rotterdam.
2. Arrive in Rotterdam and explore the city’s striking architecture, such as the Erasmus Bridge, Cube Houses, and Market Hall.
3. Take a boat tour of Rotterdam Harbor
4. Visit the Kunsthal Museum for some artistic inspiration or check out Kinderdijk Windmill Village 
5. Enjoy an authentic Dutch meal at a local restaurant.
6. Explore art and architecture on a guided walking tour of Rotterdam
7. Head to the Euromast Tower for a bird’s-eye view of the city.

Thanks for reading!

I hope you enjoyed my quick guide to some of the best day trips from Paris to other nearby countries in Europe.

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Of course, Paris itself has tons to see and do, but if you have the chance and a little bit of extra time I highly recommend hopping on the train and visiting one of these nearby destinations!

And if you’ve already been, let me know which city was your favorite in the comments below 👇

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