Towns To See Outside of Paris

It’s no secret to anyone bitten by the travel bug that France is one of the most beautiful countries in all of Europe. Obviously, Paris is one of the most breathtaking cities on the continent, if the not the planet as a whole, but the beauty of visiting Paris is the ability to check out some of the incredible towns that are all within a short drive of Paris.

Here are a few recommendations for nearby towns to see, which you can visit as you drive around and through Paris.

Senlis

If you’re visiting France from the United Kingdom, and bring your car across the channel from Dover to Calais, then you’ll hop on the A1 in order to head to Paris. But if you want something of a sightseeing appetizer before you arrive in the main course that is Paris, then you definitely should stop by in Senlis, located about an hour north of Paris. Senlis is a city rich in French history, as there are notable influences of the Roman empire’s reach into the area hundreds of years ago, as well as the architectural preferences of the early French royal families. In addition, Joan of Arc – the famous French heroine and military leader during the Hundred Years’ War – was stationed here in the 15^th century, prior to defeating the British. The city has ample commemorations for said victory.

Versailles

If you’re going to make the trip to the city of lights, and really want to see the crown jewel of France’s historic splendor, then you have to make a trip to Versailles. Located approximately 10 miles west of Paris, most people are very familiar with the town being home to the Château de Versailles and the gardens of Versailles, constructed by Louis XIV in the 18^th century and designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites today. But the town has more than just its famous palace and grounds, such as museums, café’s, and other homages to French architecture.  And if none of that sounds interesting to you, Versailles actually happens to be one of the best fruit-picking areas that part of France has to offer.

Courances

Less than an hour south of France’s capital city lies Courances, a lovely town that’s in complete contrast to the fast-paced lifestyle of Paris, and another testament to France’s rich history. At the heart of the city lies the Château de Courances, a castle built in the 17^th century and fully restored a century later to fully reflect the architecture favored by Louis XIII. However, it’s the Renaissance-inspired water gardens all around the castle is really the main sight worth the trip, as the greenery and nature in general provides incredible views and perfect serenity for travelers really looking to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Approximately 30 minutes northwest from the heart of Paris, the beautiful town of Saint-Germain-en-Laye was another favorite of Louis XIV, and the majestic buildings encompassed within the city reflect the monarch’s opulent taste. The main highlights include the actual Château de Monte Cristo, which was the country mansion of famed author Alexander Dumas (who wrote “The Three Musketeers”), and the Musée Claude Debussy, built in commemoration of the legendary composer’s birthplace. Similarly, if you’re looking for a place to just “do the tourist thing,” you can enjoy the numerous cafes and eateries encompassed within the city, or check out the museum of archaeology.