Beyond Paris: day trips and standout outings

The Accor Arena is the former Palais Omnisports de Paris-Bercy: 20,300 seats, nearly 40 years of history and every major international tour passes through here. The concept is a versatile venue hosting mega-concerts, sporting events and shows alike, plus the Phantom, a more intimate 3,400-seat space that opened in 2023. What makes it special is the full-on "arena" atmosphere on big nights — the sound, the crowd, the energy are on a completely different level.

Why go: One of Paris' biggest venues for headline events.

Good to know: Check transport after the show—exits can be crowded.

The Stade de France in Saint-Denis is the largest venue in France with 80,000 seats — the kind of place only truly world-class artists can fill. The concept is mega-events: XXL concerts (the biggest international tours), football and rugby finals, and large-scale shows. What makes it special is the full "stadium" atmosphere on big nights: when 80,000 people sing together, the energy is beyond compare.

Why go: Perfect for large-scale concerts and major matches (football/rugby).

Good to know: Plan your return—exits get very crowded after the show.

The Parc des Princes is the legendary PSG stadium in the 16th arrondissement, with a capacity of 48,000 and an electric match-day atmosphere. Beyond Ligue 1 and Champions League nights, the stadium offers the PSG Experience: a 90-minute immersive tour taking you from the stands to the changing rooms, through VIP boxes and the trophy room — and you can even walk on the pitch. Try the tour on a non-match day: it appeals to football fans and the simply curious alike.

Why go: A must for football fans visiting Paris.

Good to know: Check match dates and stadium-visit availability in advance.

The ultimate symbol of French royal power, Versailles unfolds across 800 hectares the genius of Louis XIV: the Hall of Mirrors with its 357 mirrors facing 17 arched windows, the Grand Apartments, the formal French gardens designed by Le Nôtre, then the Grand and Petit Trianon for a more intimate atmosphere. Allow a full day to enjoy the palace, gardens and the Trianon estate.

Why go: The essential day trip from Paris, blending history, architecture and a wonderful stroll.

Good to know: Buy a timed ticket if possible; wear comfortable shoes (a lot of walking).

Parc Astérix in Plailly (north of Paris) is the Asterix and Obelix universe with real thrills: Tonnerre 2 Zeus (a wooden roller coaster with a 90-degree banked drop, unique in Europe), Cétautomatix (awarded best new attraction 2025) and La Trace du Hourra spanning 900 metres of track. In 2026, the Egypt zone was entirely reimagined around the Place du Nil with Cleopatra and the Egyptian gods. What makes it fun is the blend of Gallic humour and big coasters — kids love it and so do the adults.

Why go: One of the best day trips from Paris for thrills and fun.

Good to know: Arrive early to maximize rides and shows.

Disneyland Paris means two theme parks in Marne-la-Vallée — the classic Disneyland Park and Disney Adventure World (the new name for Walt Disney Studios since March 2026). The concept is total immersion: rides, parades, shows, and now the World of Frozen, plunging you into the kingdom of Arendelle. What makes it special is the new night-time spectacular with aquatic drones, water screens and fountains — a technical feat never seen before in a Disney park.

Why go: One of the most popular day trips from Paris.

Good to know: Arrive early and plan key attractions in advance.

Seventy-five kilometres from Paris, the village of Giverny is home to the house and gardens where Claude Monet lived and painted from 1883 to 1926. The Clos Normand — a hectare of colourful flower beds left deliberately free-growing — and the water garden with its Japanese bridge and water lilies form the exact backdrop of his paintings. The house, repainted in the colours of the artist's palette (green shutters, chrome-yellow dining room), is adorned with his collection of Japanese prints.

Why go: One of the best day trips from Paris for art and gardens.

Good to know: Go early to enjoy the gardens with fewer crowds.

A jewel of the Renaissance, Chambord was commissioned by François I from 1519 — likely inspired by Leonardo da Vinci, then a guest at court. The architecture is spectacular: the famous double-helix staircase, where two people ascend simultaneously without ever crossing paths, remains a stroke of genius. The 5,440-hectare estate (the largest enclosed park in Europe) invites you to extend your visit well beyond the château itself.

Why go: One of the most impressive day trips from Paris.

Good to know: Plan transport and tickets in advance—day trips are popular.