school day trips to france

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School trips & educational tours to France from the specialists

With our dedicated school residential centres in France, and the support of a large overseas team looking after our school groups abroad, no wonder France is Voyager School Travel's most popular school trip destination. 

We are the specialist provider of educational visits to France

Quality service from our teams on both sides of the channel.

With a portfolio of company-owned properties and more than half of our team based in France, we are unlike any other school travel company offering educational trips across the Channel.

Voyager School Travel has an experienced team of French-native animateurs, coach drivers and support staff in France meaning that we have the experience and overseas connections to create an authentic and immersive school trip to suit your learning objectives. School trips to France with us are blessed with an infinite number of attractions that stretch across every area of the curriculum, guaranteed to inspire and engage your school students. The short journey time from the UK makes France work for a variety of budgets and trip lengths.

Not only do we focus on  French language immersion  at our residential centres in France, but over the years we have crafted a variety of tours and established long-standing relationships with local providers, allowing us to deliver a truly educational and memorable school trip for students of all ages and subjects. 

What to do on your school trip to France

Our educational tours are packed full of fantastic excursion options that give your students the opportunity to truly experience a modern form of teaching, completely immersing them in the French language while visiting some of the most famous locations in the world:

• The Eiffel Tower, Paris - arguably one of the most famous and iconic landmarks in the world
• Louvre, Paris - set eyes on some of the best artwork in the world!
• French Markets - an opportunity to interact with friendly locals
• St Malo - a magnificent cathedral and old market hall awaits
• Disneyland® Paris - fun and entertainment for students and teachers alike
• D-Day Landing beaches - explore the historic Normandy WWII sites, battlefields and memorials 

Student trip packages and deals in France

Join us for a wonderfully festive autumn or spring school trip to France , jam-packed with seasonal activities and one-off treats. Picture your students building a camp-fire and toasting marshmallows in our Bonfire Seasonal Special , celebrating un Noël français at Lille Christmas Market, taking to the slopes for a day’s skiing on real snow on a Winter Treats Seasonal Special trip.

As the nights draw in, our Moulin aux Draps school centre is transformed into a winter wonderland, adorned with twinkling lights, log fires, hot chocolate and warming comfort food. Our winter-themed programme takes place at our centre in Northern France, during the festive weeks throughout October to February. 

View the great value seasonal French school trips at our Moulin aux Draps residential centre

Ready to get your France trip planned?

Have a read of some considerations when planning your trip dates  and cotnact our friendly and experienced team to get your school trip off the ground.

Discover our top-rated school trips to France

French language school trip to La Grand'Ferme, Lower Normandy

Experience a fun mix of cultural visits & on-site activities led in French by native speaking animateurs at our farmhouse gîte near Mont St Michel

• Language immersion with our team of animateurs
• Voyager-owned residential centre

Escorted French language school trip to Paris

Your group will be in expert hands on this immersive, escorted tour of Paris—led entirely in French by our native speaking animateur. C'est parti !

• Language & cultural immersion with our animateurs
• Trusted school accommodation

French language school trip to Château de la Baudonnière, Lower Normandy

On this residential students enjoy a programme of on-site activities led entirely in French with native speaking animateurs at our Normandy château

Escorted French school trip to Normandy

Uncover the cultural & historical delights Normandy has to offer on this escorted tour led by our own French-native animateur

French language school trip to Château de Chantereine, Upper Normandy

Explore Normandy on cultural visits led in French by our native speaking animateurs at this Château in the seaside town Criel-sur-Mer

• Voyager-premier residential centre

Cross-curricular school trip to Paris

Ace your Paris trip with us. With so much on offer, we'll use our expertise to create an itinerary that's perfectly suited to your educational focus

Cross-curricular school trip to Disneyland® Paris

The magic of Disneyland® Paris with us with great accommodation options

Travel & Tourism student convention at Disneyland® Paris

Attend our exclusive travel & tourism student convention live from Disneyland® Paris & experience Disneyland Park & Walt Disney Studios® Park.

• Admission to live convention & both Disney® Parks
• Curriculum-linked student assignments

Business Studies student convention at Disneyland® Paris

Attend our exclusive business studies student convention live from Disneyland® Paris & experience Disneyland Park & Walt Disney Studios® Park

D-Day & WWII history school trip to Normandy

WWII history tour of Normandy to see important D-day landing sites first hand

WWI history trip to the Somme Battlefields, Northern France

Bespoke WW1 history tours of the battlefields of the Western Front, staying at our 3* Moulin aux Draps residential centre in Northern France

• History curriculum
• Voyager-owned centre

GCSE Drama student workshops at Disneyland® Paris

NEW! A unique curriculum-led drama convention with practical workshops & time to explore both Disney® Parks.

• Practical workshops & live performance
• Curriculum-linked study materials

Christmas markets & French trip to le Moulin aux Draps

Enjoy a cosy stay at our 3-star hotel with a choice of Christmas markets & escorted by your own French-native animateur

• Language immersion with our animateurs

Christmas market school trip to Paris, France

The City of Light sparkles even brighter during the festive season. See all of the top sights in Paris on this winter trip.

Christmas market school trip to Strasbourg, France

Combine French and German cohorts on a spectacular winter trip to sparkling Strasbourg and lap up the unique French-German cultural mix.

Bonfire seasonal special at le Moulin aux Draps, France

A great value autumn adventure at our residential centre in France + ski session. Available Oct–Nov

Christmas seasonal special at le Moulin aux Draps

French Christmas market trip with a ski-taster session at our Opal Coast school centre. Available throughout December.

Winter treats seasonal special at le Moulin aux Draps

A dazzling festival jam-packed with French delights at our Opal Coast residential centre. Available Jan–Feb.

Explore France school trips by region

Our Normandy residential centres & tours

Normandy is the home of our Chateau & La Grand' Ferme centres plus attractions galore for history and geography groups

Our Moulin centre, Opal Coast, Northern France

Our own centre is the perfect short-hop destination for groups seeking extra flexibility on their France school trip

Our Paris school trips & escorted tours

Escorted language & cultural tours of France's capital city with the Paris experts

School trips to Disneyland® Paris

30 years' of bringing the magic alive with unique learning events & school trips to Disneyland® Paris

Frequently asked questions about France school trips

A school trip to France offers your students an abundance of educational opportunities and cultural experiences just a short distance from the UK. It's a popular choice among teachers because it is easily accessible by coach, which makes for a more affordable school trip.

French teachers looking for more educational value from their school trip to France choose our language immersion school trips at our own school centres in Normandy and the Opal Coast—as well as in Paris. A native-speaking French animateur will lead the entire trip including activities, excursions and evening entertainment in French. What makes these trips worth it is the marked improvement to students' confidence speaking the language and their performance back in the classroom.

All students and teachers will need a valid passport . Our school trips to France include travel insurance and we still recommend that all students and teacher have a valid EHIC or GHIC card before travelling. 

When it comes to what to pack Take a look at our full recommended kit list for what to pack on a school trip to France .

The best time to visit France on a school trip is from  October to March . You'll have greater choice of excursions and activities to add to your itinerary and you're much more likely to secure your first choices. You also have greater chance of enjoying sole occupancy at one of our own school centres in France .

We offer school trips to France to suit different educational objectives and budgets. Travel to France on our most flexible and affordable school trip from just £307 per person at our centre on the Opal Coast, Hôtel du Moulin aux Draps. Find out more about what is included in the price.

Travel on a cross-curricular  school trip to Paris from £515 per person . Find out more about what is included in the price.

Useful teacher resources for your school trip to France

Top 10 free Paris visits

Our Paris-based animateur team shares the top free excursions for under 18s to help keep the cost of your trip down—without compromising on experience.

Post-Brexit travel rules

The way we travel has changed since our departure from the EU. We’ve summarised the rules you need to be aware of before your school trip—from passports to visas & EHICs.

School trip travel guides

Build your France school trip itinerary with our tried & tested list of attractions. They're sure to be a hit with students & meet your educational objectives.

Teacher case studies

Wondering how other teachers got on? Hear directly from teachers who have travelled with us and learn their top school trip tips—plus reviews from students.

Need help booking and organising your school trip to France?

We have created a number of useful guides that can help you plan and book your next school trip with Voyager School Travel.

• School trip travel hub
• How to book your school trip
• How to promote your school trip
• Create a more affordable school trip
• Fill places on your school trip
• The essential school trip kit list

Why choose Voyager School Travel for your school trip to France?

You are in specialist hands

Our team use their teaching, language & destination experience to organise trips that are not only enriching but hassle-free.  Read more →

Safety assured, bonded & accredited

As a member of the School Travel Forum & protected through ABTA & ATOL you can be sure of our high standards.  Read more →

Recommended by teachers

Schools trust Voyager School Travel to organise the educational trips for over 32,000 passengers a year.  Read more →

We deliver the educational elements

Our expert-led language programmes, with proven educational benefits, allow  teachers to enjoy the trip too.  Read more →

Overseas centres & support staff

Peace of mind knowing our centre m anagers, instructors, coach drivers & support team will look after your every need. Read more →

No hidden costs or late changes

We only offer trips we know we can deliver. We promise to be transparent with no hidden costs & no nasty surprises.  Read more →

For teachers who are serious about the educational outcomes of their school trip.

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Destination Highlight

High school trip to france .

France has a special "je ne sais quoi" that you won’t find anywhere in the world. A school trip to France will take you to Paris, Normandy and the Chateau region. Students will have a full french language experience while exploring the history, architecture, art and culture that make up the remarkable cities. From the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame to Honfleur and the home of Claude Monet, your students will be taken on a trip of a lifetime.

Explore France; Sample Itinerary

- Free chaperone per 6 students, Minimum group size of 18 students ( Private Groups)

*Please Call For Per Student Pricing*

*Itinerary and pricing vary by date, passenger count, inclusions and exclusions chosen* 

Day One; Travel Day

International Overnight Flight to Paris, France

Welcome to Paris, France! 

Meet Motorcoach Shuttle, GO Leader & Tour Manager 

Check into Hotel or Hostel Accommodations: Hotel Ascot Opera or Le Mije Hostel or Similar 

Visit the Musée d’Orsay (Museum) 

Lunch 

Visit the Cathedral de Notre Dame 

Group Exploration at Île de la Cité

Dinner: Group Sit Down Restaurant

Evening Activity: Top of the Eiffel Tower 

Breakfast at the Hotel 

Visit the Louvre Museum 

Visit the Catacombs of Paris 

Group Exploration of the City of Lights

Evening Activity: Bateau Mouche Night Cruise 

Visit the Giverny/Monet's Gardens and Musee des Impressionnismes 

Meet Motorcoach and Departure for Honfleur 

Group Exploration of Honfleur 

Check in to Hotel Accommodations in Normandy 

Visit Maisy Battery 

Visit Arromanches  and the Musee du Debarquement 

Evening Activity: Group Exploration of Honfleur 

Check into Hotel Accommodations in Honfleur 

Day Six 

Historic Tour of D-Day Beaches (From Juno to Omaha) 

Visit Omaha Beach Memorial- US Cemetery 

Visit La Pointe du Hoc 

Meet motorcoach and departure for Mont-St Michel

Exploration of a German soldier cemetery- La Cambe 

Check into Hotel Accommodations

Dinner 

Breakfast at the Hotel

Visit the Fortifications du Mont-Saint-Michel- Guided Tour of the Abbey

Group Exploration of Mont St-Michel

Farewell France Dinner 

Day Eight 

International Flight Departure

Plan a Classic School Trip

Build your trip your way.

Choose one of our meticulously pre-designed school trip programs or build your trip your way!

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France School Trips & Educational Tours

Destinations › Europe › France

Embark on your Learning Adventure with a school trip to France, as you explore the culture, history and language with your action-packed, tailored itinerary.

Our educational programs and school trips to France allow students to enjoy an authentic experience and gain an appreciation of France’s culture, art, architecture, history, business and much more. From scavenger hunts in the Louvre museum and playing pétanque on the banks of the river Seine, to lectures at the world-famous Sorbonne University and even hikes to hidden caves, our itineraries are created to ensure that your students learn as much as possible while creating life-long memories.

Business School Trip in France

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With so many students learning French in the UK, a school trip to France immerses students in the language, improving their comprehension, listening and speaking skills. We recommend combining a school trip to Paris with activities like hiking the Puy de Dôme or visiting the Château d’If, which was a setting in Dumas’ The Count of Monte Cristo, to inspire students to throw themselves into French culture and to discover the ways it connects to subjects such as geography, history and literature.

Educational Specialist Manager

Find out where our tours can take you

Why choose us, tailored learning environments.

France school trips offer comprehensive educational immersion, integrating your curriculum with activities, accommodation, and safety, alongside an exciting glimpse into vibrant European culture.

Hands-On Assurance

Global education exploration, frequently asked questions, where can i visit on a school trip to france.

Paris school trips

The capital city of France offers a myriad of educational opportunities for students. Whether studying geography, literature, business , languages, culture, history , or art , Paris plays host to valuable learning experiences that will bring subjects from the classroom to life.

With diverse topography, language immersion opportunities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and a renowned culinary scene, Lyon offers immersive, educational experiences in geography , languages , and culture for students on a school trip to France.

A city known for its incredible Roman remains, Nîmes is the perfect destination for a history or classics educational trip to France. From the famous, well-preserved amphitheatre to the tallest aqueduct the Romans ever built, this school trip to France provides numerous opportunities for history and classics students to get up close and personal with their studies.

Going beyond the conventional school trip to Paris, Marseille is a hub for cultural and historical learning, blending ancient Greek, Roman, and multicultural influences. Students can explore historic sites like the Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica and Chateau d’if, gaining insights into immigration history and vibrant contemporary culture.

What can we do on a sports school trip to France?

Sports trips to France combine sporting prowess with a unique cultural backdrop that is hard to beat anywhere in Europe! Thrilling activities like surfing and stand-up paddleboarding come alongside cultural exploration, providing students with a blend of local history and exciting sporting opportunities.

Who will be leading our educational trip to France?

Your enthusiastic Adventure Leader will be with you and your students throughout the tour, to ensure everything runs smoothly and help your group have the best time possible during your school tour to France.

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School Trips to France

NST offers a huge selection of school trips to France for primary (KS2) and secondary school (KS3-KS5) students. Our travel experts take the hassle out of educational trip planning. We help with everything from booking transport to organising student-friendly tours and excursions in France.

The benefits of French school trips

Our school trips to France are one of the most popular trip options we offer and it's easy to see why. Our French school trips provide valuable educational experiences as there are lots of opportunities to learn and have fun. France is rife with culture and history, making this an ideal travel destination to visit and embark upon a learning adventure with your class.

There is no better place for your pupils to deepen their understanding of French culture than during a trip to the French Opal Coast. If literature, art and design is your focus, a short trip to Paris will introduce your students to French art and its global impact. When you book a school trip to France with us, our team can arrange tours to the world-famous Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, the Museum of Modern Art and more.

Looking for more information and advice on how to plan the perfect France school trip? Contact the NST team today , we’re always happy to help you bring learning to life outside the classroom.

France school trips highlights include...

During your school trip to France, your students get an opportunity to experience culture like no other. The idyllic home of the fine arts, including paintings, sculptures, music, dance and architecture and film. Here's a little taster of what you can expect from an educational visit to France:

• A school trip to Paris , including Disneyland Paris and Parc Asterix
• Normandy school trips to see famous landmarks
• Lille Christmas Markets
• Skiing in the French Alps

No matter if your students are studying languages, history or art and design. There is a wealth of course content to explore to enhance their learning.

Browse our curriculum-linked school French trips...

Brittany .

French Language 

With a choice of educational and cultural visits to be enjoyed, a school French trip to this picturesque coastal town is perfect for language groups looking to sample a more traditional French way of life.

Learn more here

If you’re looking for more information or free advice, get in touch with one of our expert travel advisors today.We can helo to curate a tailor-made schoool trip, which incorporates anything from the history and cultural aspects of a country to an adventure-filled activity trip.

French Alps 

Geography 

On a geography tour to the French Alps many NST groups choose to study the impact of skiing on the fragile landscape, along with taking hands-on measurements of rivers, sediments and vegetation and learning about how alpine hazards are managed to create a thriving economy.

If you’re looking for more information or free advice, get in touch with one of our expert travel advisors today.

Each year, Lille hosts the largest Christmas market in the north of France - with a vast program of events held throughout the festive period. A trip to Lille can also provide French language students with the perfect opportunity to brush up on their skills. 

Find more information about our school trips to Lille here

Loire Valley 

Situated in the heart of France between Nantes and Paris, the Loire Valley offers an unforgettable experience of French culture, science and language. From here, France school trip groups of students can visit a wealth of nearby historic towns, including Angers, Chartres and Orléans.

Find more information about our school trips to the Loire Valley here

French Language

Nice radiates a relaxed atmosphere and has a very distinct culture, making it a perfect place to take your French language pupils at any time of year.

Normandy 

Normandy’s wealth of cultural landmarks and close proximity to the UK make it one of our most popular school trip destinations for students of all ages. Whether your focus is language, history or a broader learning experience, our team of school trip experts draw on decades of experience when offering guidance and recommendations for tours and places to visit, must-see attractions and popular accommodation choices.

Find more information about our school trips to Normandy here

Northern France 

Northern france.

Northern France is a fantastic school trip destination for a number of reasons. Here, beautiful countryside meets medieval villages, poignant wartime memorials and wonderful food making this an ideal location for secondary school pupils to explore. It’s not too far to travel from the UK either. 

Find more information about our school trips to Northern France here

Paris’ reputation as a global centre of culture is much deserved, and a school trip to Paris is a fantastic option for a vast range of subject-linked tours. We can accommodate for primary schools and college students and plan tailor-made activities for your students to enjoy. 

Find more information about our school trips to Paris here

Paris Theme Parks

Paris is home to two of Europe’s most popular theme parks - Disneyland® Paris and Parc Astérix. Both are perfect for enhancing class interaction or relaxing between French language school trips. 

Learn more about our school trips to Paris amusement parks here

WWI Battlefields

Our WWI battlefield tours programme covers the events of World War One in considerable historical detail, particularly in the Somme region.

Find more information about our school trips to the WWI Battlefields here

Experience the culture of France school trips in our 2-minute video

Contact our french school trip experts.

With NST, planning a school trip to France is simple. We take hundreds of primary school and secondary school groups to France every year. This means that our team has the skills and experience to ensure your trip itinerary is planned effectively and runs without a hitch.

Members of our team regularly visit Paris, Northern France, Normandy & the Loire Valley to assess the suitability of the area for school groups. Our team inspects everything from logistics to student-friendly accommodation; this ensures we provide the highest quality trips at all times.

Our French school trip experts will work closely with you to ensure your final itinerary meets your exact needs. Whether you're planning a secondary or primary school trip to France, we can help you to plan a fun activity-filled trip that's educational too!

Our NST representatives in France can assist with:

• Meeting your group on arrival
• Hotel check-in
• Providing advice on cultural points of interest
• Public transport support
• 24-hour emergency assistance
• Recommendations for evening activities
• Booking tours and excursions during your trip
• Itinerary planning

Planning your first school trip?

If you're planning your first school trip, our essential guide will take you through each step of the process.

• Choosing your destination
• Gaining approval from your Local Authority and/or your Head
• Promoting your tour in school
• Confirming your booking
• Tailor-make your tour
• Completing your risk assessments (including a sample risk assessment)
• Quick reference timeline
• Pre-tour checklist

Additional support, resources & information:

Tour planning service

With NST, you’ll get your own dedicated, knowledgeable Tour Co-ordinator who’ll work with you from start to finish. You’ll benefit from their unrivalled destination knowledge, and their experience gained from working with many other groups too. They’ll tailor-make your itinerary from scratch and take care of everything for you:

• Pulling together an itinerary that runs smoothly
• Planning the right balance of visits every day with realistic timings
• Pre-arranging and pre-booking your visits, entrance tickets, passes and meals

You’ll receive your final itinerary a full 4-weeks before you travel too.

Free school trip promotion pack

We’ll support you and provide everything you need to advertise your school trip around school and to parents. Our free school trip promotion pack consists of:

• Parents’ letter & permission slip template for you to complete A3 posters to promote your trip around school
• PowerPoint presentation templates which you can tailor to your own needs
• Parents’ leaflets covering how NST manage safety, financial protection and details of our travel insurance
• Online parents’ video which showcases the benefits of taking a school trip

For selected destinations, we’ll provide a trip launch web page using video footage and imagery. This web page is provided by a weblink and can be shared with pupils and parents in many ways.

Risk assessment support including preview visits

Risk assessment plays a vitally important part in the planning and organisation on any school tour. Our risk assessment guide aims to help you understand more about your obligations and how you can more effectively manage group safety on your next educational visit and provide you with risk assessments for your trip. 

Planning first school trip

Organising your first school trip can appear to be a daunting process. If you're planning your first school trip, our guide will help to take you through each step of the planning process, answering frequently asked questions and providing tips and support along the way. Our helpful guide covers the following:

View our essential guide to a successful school trip here .

Get live updates on your group's tour location

Locate My Trip uses GPS technology and is the easy, convenient way for your school to follow your location whilst on tour. Specifically designed to provide reassurance to both parents and teachers, NST will know where your group are 24/7. If your schedule needs to change, we’ll put plans in place to keep your tour on track. 

With Locate My Trip your group can also share photos and videos with the school and parents, via a secure link, to keep them updated on your experience whilst you’re away. Watch our short Locate My Trip video here.

Your online school trip organiser - My Tour Manager

Save time and stay on track with your school trip admin with our online orgnaniser - designed to help busy teachers like you. With My Tour Manager, you'll be able to download FREE resources and access trip paperwork online and in one place. Your personalised checklist details what you need to do and by when, plus you'll receive fortnightly reminders too. What's more, you can take all your trip documents on the go whilst on your tour with our app, My Tour Manager-On-the-Go. Find out more and watch out short My Tour Manager video here .

Free classroom resources

We've created a range of free geography resources and educational posters to brighten up your classroom! Take a look at our downloadable posters here .

Brexit & your school trip

How will Brexit affect my school trip?

Following the end of the transition period there are several changes that will affect groups travelling with us to the EU.

For more information on these changes, visit our dedicated Brexit page here .

If you're travelling with NST and have any specific questions. please contact your Educational Travel Advisor.

Why choose NST...

Here's why thousands of teachers choose NST each year...

• Unrivalled knowledge

Your dedicated tour co-ordinator will use their unrivalled local knowledge and expertise of France to create a tailor-made, curriculum-linked itinerary to meet your group’s exact needs.

• Making it easier for you

With our online school trip organiser , travel app , free classroom posters and trip launch resources to support your in-school promotion.

• Free group leader inspection visits

We offer a free inspection visit to your chosen destination to support your risk assessment planning. 

• Value for money

We’re committed to bringing you the best possible value trips to help make every penny count.

• More than 50 years’ experience

With over 50 years’ experience , with NST you can rest assured that your group is in safe hands.

• Risk assessment guidance

Our risk assessment guidance will help you to manage group safety on your next educational trip.

• Peace of mind

Your group’s location can be followed with our trip tracking device - Locate My Trip - plus you’ll have 24/7 support from us whilst you’re away. ​

• Offsetting carbon emissions

For every trip taken, we'll plant a Maya nut tree in Peru to support reforestation, local communities & biodiversity. Plus, we'll offset an additional tonne of CO2 to guarantee carbon emission reductions. 

Looking for protection on your next school trip? 

Booking with a school travel company is the best way for you to protect parents’ money and give yourself peace of mind.  

Don’t forget – if your school arranges transport, accommodation and other services directly, you’ll be liable under the Package Travel Regulations – meaning you’ll have all the responsibilities of a travel company, both legal and financial. 

Financial protection from the moment you book

NST are fully bonded:

Managing safety on school trips

For your protection, NST's independently audited Safety Management System covers:

• 24-hour emergency cover
• Audited accommodation & transport
• Excursions & school visit assessment
• Group leader preview visits to assist with risk assessment planning

We're LOtC Council’s Quality Badge assured

The Department for Education advises schools to always look for the LOtC Quality Badge when choosing a school travel provider.

Student groups are safe on school trips to France,

There is no need to worry when you book a french school tour with NST. With our safety management system you have 24-hour emergency cover on all of your trips incase anything goes wrong giving you peace of mind.

School Trips To France

We understand the transformative power of learning in real-world settings. That's why we've meticulously crafted a range of inspiring and educational itineraries in France for learners at all stages.

France is a nation celebrated around the world for its monumental history, groundbreaking art, and dynamic culture. School trips to France offer an ideal environment for students to learn more about this historic nation and become inspired by all that France has to offer.

Explore France with trips from Next Generation Travel

Introduce young students to the magic of educational travel with a tailor-made primary school trip to France.

Inspire your secondary school and GCSE students with school trips to France for a variety of subjects.

Bring history to life with a Pearson Edexcel-endorsed guided tour in France, delivered by our team of expert guides.

School trips to France by Destination

One of the world’s most iconic cities, Paris is a global hub for art, fashion and culture.

The stunning Loire Valley is a fantastic option for GCSE and A-Level French language groups with beautiful towns, engaging visits and historic sites to explore.

Normandy's beauty, history, and cultural richness make it a captivating destination for history enthusiasts, art lovers, nature seekers, and food connoisseurs alike.

School trips to Valencia allow pupils to delve into the characterful Old Town before exploring Valencia’s modern and futuristic museums.

Our Trips To France

France presents an exceptional opportunity for an educational adventure that students will remember for a lifetime. The most visited country in the world, France is home to iconic landmarks and stunning scenery, with its rich tapestry of history, art, and culture.

France is a vibrant, multi-dimensional classroom for students across all disciplines. It’s simultaneously dedicated to preserving its history while spearheading culinary excellence and fashion innovation. This seamless blend of its historical treasures and modern flair makes France an educational destination par excellence.

Our school trips to France embrace the country’s rich heritage, from the halls of Versailles to the beaches of Normandy. They provide a broad canvas for educating and engaging students in France’s history, culture, and language.

Popular trips to France

Bursting with culture at every turn, France’s capital city with its elegance, sophistication and style is the number one destination for GCSE and A-Level language students.

With its idyllic seaside towns and markets, a trip to the Opal Coast will enable students to improve their listening and language skills, providing opportunities to practice in relaxed, real-life situations.

Walk the beaches of Normandy with an expert guide, who will immerse you in the details of the D-Day landings from the perspectives of the British, American, Canadian, and German forces.

Is there a better place to go on a Travel & Tourism school trip than the home of the world’s most popular tourist destinations? Mix learning and fun in this unmissable educational event.

Top France Attractions

We take immense pride in curating educational itineraries that illuminate France's finest offerings. From the gothic arches of Notre Dame to the battlefields of Normandy, our tailored journeys immerse students in a country where history and modernity seamlessly converge.

Embark on an exploratory voyage through France's most beloved sites. Absorb the revolutionary spirit at the Bastille, marvel at the awe-inspiring Château de Chenonceau, or pause for reflection at the Caen Memorial Museum.

Choose our school trips to France for:

• Immersive language learning 
• Trips to some of the world’s most famous sights
• Unforgettable memories

Why choose NGT for School Trips?

• Award Winning Service
• Trusted By Our Customers
• Expert Tour Planners
• Book with Confidence

At NGT, we take school trips seriously. We are destination and subject experts with an award-winning service. You can count on us for the perfect balance of educational and personal development. We take great pride in ensuring our customers’ satisfaction by going above and beyond to meet their travel needs. But don’t just take out word for it…

WST Partners & Accreditations

Common questions about our school trips to France

Yes, we can integrate immersive language experiences into your itinerary, facilitating authentic interactions with local French speakers.

At NGT, we customise our school trips to France itineraries based on your curriculum’s needs. Whether you’d like to organise a French language trip to the Loire Valley, delve into art and design in Paris, or enrol in a Science & STEM Seminar at Disneyland®, we ensure your educational objectives are met.

The best time to visit France for a school trip is during the spring (April to June) or autumn (September to November). These periods offer mild weather and fewer tourists, making it easier to explore and learn.

Support and resources for planning your trip

We have been operating school tours for over 35 years so we know a thing or two about planning a school trip. One of the benefits of this is that we have an abundance of knowledge and supporting documents to share with you. In our resources area you will find everything you need for your school trip planning:

• Frequently asked questions
• Parent letters
• Insurance documents
• Risk assessment documents
• Planning tips

Featured Resource

A Guide To Risk Assessment

You need to know you can book with a tour operator who has everything covered for you.

This guide will assist you completing your own risk assessments covering areas such as:

• What is a risk assessment
• Event specific risk assessments
• Emergency procedures

Get a quote today and let’s start our journey together

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Eiffel Tower

• View on Map

Visit the most iconic landmark in Paris where students can take the lift to the top to see amazing views of the city and get some great Instagram worthy photos.

Why visit the Eiffel Tower?

• One of the world’s most recognised and famous landmarks
• A must-see structure for any visiting school trips
• Breathtaking views
• Rich in history
• An architectural wonder

Enquire about this trip

Disneyland® Paris

Disneyland® Paris is a unique destination with two Disney Parks that are home to more than 50 attractions, shows and parades. Including a visit to Disneyland® Paris will create lasting memories for students, fostering a sense of camaraderie and shared experiences that strengthen bonds among your students.

Why visit Disneyland® Paris?

• Experience the fun and thrill of your favourite Disneyland Park attractions and rides
• There are two theme parks at Disneyland Paris– Disneyland Park and Walt Disneyland Studios Park
• There are big rides and small rides for all ages, so there's something for everyone
• Getting around is easy because Disney provides a free shuttle service to and from the train station, the nearby hotels and the parks themselves

Château Versailles

Château Versailles is a UNESCO world heritage site and the scene for many historic events. There are a number of different tours depending on the time you have available but can include the palace and the gardens or Marie Antoinette’s estate. Most student groups and tours choose to visit the palace with an audio guide and then explore the famous gardens.

Why visit Château Versailles?

• Considered one of the most beautiful and largest palaces in Europe
• Gain valuable insight into French history
• See how French monarchs used to live
• Spend a full day to get the most from the experience

Visiting Boulogne, especially on a language trip, can offer numerous educational and cultural benefits to students. Boulogne provides an immersive French language environment, where students will have opportunities to practice their language skills in authentic settings, interacting with locals in shops, restaurants, and markets.

This busy port town offers a wide range of visits which means many groups choose spend a half day or a whole day here. At the heart of Boulogne is the Roman old town, ideal for sightseeing and shopping. Other popular visits include Becasuc sweet factory and Nausicaä Sea Centre, or visit on a market day to practice speaking French whilst picking up some bargains.

Bayeux Tapestry

The Bayeux Tapestry is an iconic historical artifact that tells the story of the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. The Bayeux Tapestry is not only a historical artifact but also a cultural treasure. It provides insight into the artistic techniques, storytelling traditions, and societal norms of medieval Europe. By studying the tapestry, students can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of both Normandy and England.

A visit here offers the unique opportunity to see the world-famous embroidery, whilst in Bayeux you can also spend some time around the pretty town to visit the Cathedral or market.

D-Day Landing Beaches

The D-Day Landing Beaches are iconic sites of the Allied invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944. Visiting these beaches allows students to walk in the footsteps of history and gain a firsthand understanding of one of the most pivotal events of World War II. Visiting the D-Day Landing Beaches also provides students with an opportunity for reflection and remembrance.

Guided tours covering the key landing beaches Omaha, Utah, Gold,  Sword and Juno can be arranged and are highly recommended. The guides are experienced historians from Caen Memorial Museum.

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Where to go on a School Trip to France ?

Here are a few tips to help you get started with your sorting when you start thinking of where to go on a School Trip to France :

Obviously!  You would be hard pressed to find a school trip to France that doesn’t include the City of Light, and with good reason. From iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame to just soaking in the atmosphere in one of the city’s wonderful plazas, Paris offers a great introduction to all things français. You can read some of the things students will love about ‘ la Cité de la Lumière ‘.

Depth vs. Breadth

On a typical 9-12 day tour of France it’s possible to cover a fair amount of ground. The question is, do you want to?  Getting a flavor of several of the country’s regions is an understandable priority, but it will mean changing hotels multiple times, with all of the packing and unpacking that entails. On the flip side, some tours spend all of their overnights in a single city (usually Paris), with day trips arranged to outlying areas. Knowing the preferred pace for your group is an important step in finding the right tour.

North or South?

If you’ve opted out of the Grand Tour, a common dividing line you might consider is tours focusing on northern France versus those that head south. The north offers the history of Normandy’s D-Day beaches , the stunning Mont Saint-Michel and the castles of the Loire Valley. In the south you’ll bask in the Mediterranean climate, with likely stops in Avignon, Nice and one or more of the many Roman ruins in the area (the Pont du Gard is my personal favorite).

Special Requests

Normandy and Provence might be the most well-known, but France has many other options to suit different tastes.  Chamonix offers a glimpse of France’s alpine side. Strasbourg feels as German as it does French. Or maybe you’re after a different type of travel experience such as a homestay.  Don’t be afraid to ask your tour consultant what you can do to make your tour unique.

When is your next trip after this one?

It’s always smart to think ahead. If you plan on making a French trip an annual event, it might be smart to give each trip a more narrow focus.  All the more reason for your students to join you on more than one trip! If you see this trip as a less common occurrence, a more comprehensive tour may be in the cards.

These pointers should help you to organize your search. What other factors have you taken into account when planning a school trip to France?

For more inspiration on school trips to France, explore some of our programs here.

French Video Lesson Plans

Voyage voyage.

Voyage Voyage is a two-part video lesson plan with accompanying worksheets for high school level French classrooms! 

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Schools into Europe

• Boulogne/Cote d’Opale
• Disneyland® Paris
• Futuroscope and the Loire Valley
• Normandy and the Second World War Battlefields
• Parc Astérix
• Barcelona and the Costa Brava
• Brussels, Bruges, Ghent and the Belgian Coast
• German Rhineland
• Northern Italy
• Southern Italy
• The Netherlands
• Christmas markets
• First World War Battlefields
• Boulogne/Côte d’Opale

SCHOOL TRIPS TO FRANCE

France is our most popular destination, and our school tour package offers complete language, cultural and historical experiences, with shorter travel times and very competitive pricing. From day trips to Boulogne to tours of Paris, and from language emersion to twentieth century history, France is a destination which can be tailored to any learning objective and subject specialism. France is also an ideal destination for reward trips, with tours to Paris, Disneyland® Paris and Parc Astérix a perennial favourite.

Outside of Paris, discover the charms of provincial France and allow your school group to explore the pretty towns and villages of the Côte d’Opale or Brittany, or show your pupils the varied history and culture of Normandy, with its ancient links to the people of Great Britain. At Christmas, the country’s breathtaking cities and towns take on a different aspect, and trips to the Lille Christmas Markets, and increasingly the markets held next to the iconic landmarks of Paris, are sure to fill you with festive cheer.

History teachers will find that there is plenty to do, and a history school trip to France may focus on the First World War or Second World War, with the battlefields of the Somme and the landing beaches of Normandy ever in remembrance. For French teachers where better than France for your pupils to see the unique vibrancy of French language and culture?

Whatever your subject, age and level you teach, we are sure we can tailor make a French tour that will exactly suit your requirements. Why not flick through our destination specific pages above to begin your journey?

For the latest travel advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) for France, including information on security and local laws in addition to passport and visa requirements, please click here .

Government Advice to Schools and Colleges to Cancel International Trips

Fun, Educational, School Trips to France

Helping schools experience France for over 25 years

Educational & Cultural Trips

exploring the rich history of France

School Trips to France

2024 is now well underway – nearly April already! The Olympic Games in Paris, the 80th Anniversary of D-Day…  it’s a great time for a school trip to France!

Here at Château Beaumont, we provide a fun and engaging getaway for school kids of all ages. Through our trips, school children not only experience the beautiful sights and sounds of French culture but, also learn a thing or two about language and even themselves.   

Why is this important?  It’s long been understood that shared, new experiences are inspire us and bond us as a community.  Yet the impact of the Covid-19 lockdowns on children have placed greater emphasis on the need for opportunities to get out, discover and experience new things.

KS3 pupils can test their language skills in real-life situations by visiting markets, farms and shops – by interacting with native French speakers – but simply experiencing new sights, sounds and flavours is an important opportunity for younger pupils in KS2.   We provide lots of fun and engaging activities on site including everything from Musketeer training to team-building exercises and the Zip Wire, not to mention the opportunity to explore the beautiful countryside and architecture France is renowned for around Europe and the world.

We have years of experience offering a huge range of interesting tours and fun activities for children to take part in, enriching them on a cultural and educational level. All of our staff provide fun, expert guidance and information to create an amazing experience that children will remember forever.

Why not find out more today?

School trips to France with Château Beaumont are a fantastic opportunity to discover France, its language and its culture. Whatever your level of French, it’s okay: explore the rich culture of France and meet French people in a happy, engaging and fun environment.

• Excellent blend of language and cultural excursions
• Fluent French-speaking and bilingual Group Leaders
• A great base to explore the Bayeux Tapestry
• Experience D-Day with a visit to Arromanches and the 360 Cinema
• Fun, onsite activities
• Members of BAPA and holders of the LOtC Quality Badge
• 20 + years experience of providing school trips to France

Come into our world

A New Year, A New Hope, A New Ofsted?

Happy New Year to all teachers, instructors and “animateurs’ who are currently getting ready for the new, 2024 season! On the lips of most school teachers this month will be the potential evolution of Ofsted.  The stakes are high and the questions plentiful – what role does an inspection play?  Who should carry them out? […] January 15, 2024

What our visitors say

“Our children and staff have had a really good week. Thank you to the Management team for being so supportive, we are really happy, thank you!!”

Hertfordshire

“Great activities and instructors! Kitchen team excellent, we were very well catered for, and we appreciated the flexibility of François during our stay!”

“We really enjoyed our stay at the Chateau. One of the best experiences! Thank you everyone!”

“The children have had a fantastic experience and a great time. A really good week, smoothly run by François and the team!”

"Thank you to all of the staff! A relaxed stay at Chateau Beaumont, with a good atmosphere, lovely accommodation, site and staff!”

West Sussex

"All of the activities went very well during the week. Great interaction between the students and instructors. All of the staff have been very helpful, with a special mention to Sophie who was outstanding during our stay. We all had an enjoyable time at Chateau Beaumont!”

"All of the staff have been professional and kind during our stay. Educational value throughout for Geography and French. The students felt safe and were engaged and excited from beginning to end. The teachers could really take the time to watch the students grow.”

"Another excellent trip to Chateau Beaumont! The students will take home many useful experiences and happy memories.”

"Top marks and amazing value for money! 10/10 for food every night! Very impressed with all of the excursions and interesting facts from our Group Leader. Good balance in terms of the level of French. This visit has given the children a life experience, something you don’t forget. It is amazing!”

"Great as always! Food here is always amazing. Very happy with all of the activities & instructors, excellent with instruction & safety.”

“A fantastic week as always! Staff very helpful and knowledgeable, and were able to relate well to the children”

"Florence wonderful, a really lovely week again!”

“A really positive experience. Staff lovely and amazing food! The staff have really made this visit and the children have enjoyed all of the activities”

“Great French Fun!”

"It’s been a fantastic visit, really welcomed. Everyone has done everything to make the trip a real success which it has been! The kids have made memories for life. Delighted to have brought them here!”

“All excellent, it has worked very well over the weekend with our older students. We really enjoyed having Katy as our Group Leader who is bilingual.”

Bedfordshire

“From our arrival all of the staff have been supportive, accommodating and efficient. Thank you to everyone!”

School Travel

Opal Coast Day Trip

This exciting day trip allows your students to experience France for a day.

Due to its close proximity, the Opal Coast is easily accessible and gives your students an opportunity to develop their French speaking skills, visit some interesting places, and taste some local delicacies.

DISCOVER FRANCE IN A DAY!

A visit to the Opal Coast offers the perfect introduction to the culture and traditions of France. A 35-minute journey on the Eurotunnel, and you’re across the English Channel and ready to visit cities such as Calais, Boulogne-Sur-Mer, and Le Touquet.

The trip allows for plenty of opportunities for students to practice their language skills throughout the day. For example, why not let them buy their own lunch in a local French market? Or chat with local people while purchasing souvenirs?

They can discover how local foods are made – and indulge in a tasting session afterward. There are bakeries, sweet factories, and chocolate makers. For those with more traditional (ambitious?) tastes, delicacies such as snail farms and goat cheese factories might fit the bill.

In addition, there are plenty of other visits and attractions in the area, including La Coupole, a Second World War V2 rocket launching site, and Nausicaá, one of Europe’s largest aquariums.

Whichever you choose, this trip is a fantastic experience and taste of France!

And, if you’d rather take a longer trip, take a look at our Opal Coast page.

“Very good communication with our personal Tour Organiser who was open to my suggestions and very helpful!”

So much to experience in one day

Your private coach will travel to Folkestone, and arrive in Calais by mid-morning. Your first stop will be at a French market where language skills can be put into practice by purchasing lunch and speaking with the locals.

Then onto a French bakery where the students will get a chance to make – and taste – croissants.

Next up is the sweet factory! Need we say more?

Spend the afternoon visiting Nausicaá in Boulogne-Sur-Mer, one of Europe’s largest aquariums, before a quick stop off for some last minute shopping en route back to the UK.

This is just a suggested itinerary. Please speak to our experts to tailor the day to your specific requirements.

Price from £ 101 PP

Get an online quote in seconds

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Travel by private coach
• Travel by train may be possible, please ask
• Return Channel crossing
• Free itinerary booking service
• 1:10 free places for supervising adults

TAILOR YOUR TRIP

CALL US NOW ON 01384 398 893 OR  EMAIL US  TO DISCUSS YOUR REQUIREMENTS FURTHER

WHAT’S EXTRA?

• Entry to places of interest (these will be stated in the quotation we send you).
• Travel insurance (Let us know if you want to include this)

LOOKING FOR A LONGER OPAL COAST TRIP?

Opal Coast 3 Nights

Opal Coast 2 Nights

Request a quote.

• French Package

Bienvenue en France! Enquire Now

Picturesque Paris is the perfect destination to immerse your students in French culture.

Iconic architecture, a medley of museums and galleries, and incredible dining spots spanning the banks of the River Seine – picture-perfect Paris is the perfect spot for students to immerse themselves in the language and culture France has to offer!

Here at PGL we’ve been hosting groups on language and culture trips to France for many years, and over time expert team have fine-tuned a selection of inspiring itineraries that provide the perfect balance of exciting excursions and learning opportunities for groups just like yours. Our pre-designed programmes are sure to give your students an unforgettable learning experience in Paris.

French Package programme overview

• 4-5 day immersive experiences
• Full itinerary of excursions and activities with optional trip to Disneyland® Paris or Parc Astérix
• Support from a PGL Tour Leader who accompanies you to most excursions
• Full board accommodation at PGL Château de Grande Romaine
• Evening activity programme led by PGL Animateurs
• Return travel, 24hr support line & insurance
• Shared coach packages available for smaller non-education groups
• The perfect trip for Primary Schools , Secondary Schools or Group Trips to experience the best of France.

Select your group type

Learning outcomes, "opportunities to test language skills in real-life situations with french language speakers", "make lasting memories from visiting famous landmarks and experiencing a vibrant and inspirational city", "gain independence and confidence from travelling overseas without family", "appreciation and understanding of a different culture", "strengthen friendships and relationship-building from sharing new and exciting experiences with peers", "nurture an interest in travel and languages".

A Typical Day at PGL

Excursions & activities

–Select an excursion or activity–

Arc de Triomphe

At the western end of the Champs Elysées the famous Arc is decorated with a huge frieze, commissioned by Napoleon as a tribute to his own military victories, including the famous ‘Le Départ des Volontaires’ (also known as ‘Le Marseillaise’). In 1920 the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was laid at the arch’s base, and an eternal flame burns to commemorate the dead of World War I and World War II. There is a spiral staircase to the top of the arch for fantastic views across Paris.

Bateaux Parisiens

Take this sightseeing boat trip along the Seine and enjoy a new perspective on many of Paris’s best-known landmarks including a detailed and informative commentary. Departing from near the Eiffel Tower your trip takes you past sites including Notre Dame, the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay – and much more!

Brie Market and Town Trail

Discover a picturesque, traditional town, with its Gothic church and its twelfth century castle; Brie Comte-Robert is the historic capital of the Brie region. PGL’s exclusive town trails are available in English and French, and will help your group make the most of exploring the streets of the town; or visit the vibrant market with its many artisan traders for plentiful opportunities to practise making transactions and negotiations in French!

Château de Fontainebleau

The opulent and impressive apartments of both Marie Antoinette and Napoleon are among unmissable sights at the Château de Fontainebleau, the former residence of the French royal family until the French Revolution of 1789. The gardens are also magnificent and PGL has produced a visit trail to help you explore and appreciate the 130 acres of palace grounds.

Château Vaux-le-Vicomte

Château Vaux-le-Vicomte makes an impressive addition to your itinerary; the architect that designed it was the same architect who went on to build the Palace at Versailles. The Château was created for Nicholas Fouquet who famously embezzled state funds and was sentenced to solitary confinement for the rest of his life wearing an iron mask. This is the where the story of "The Man in the Iron Mask" originates. The Château is set in large enclosed gardens which means the group can enjoy some freedom to explore.

Cité des Sciences

The Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie is the biggest science museum in Europe and specialises in promoting science. Its goal is to spread scientific and technical knowledge – particularly among young people. Five million visitors a year come to see attractions that include a planetarium, a submarine and an IMAX theatre (La Géode) as well as special areas for children and teenagers where there is a wide range of interactive exhibits. Supporting information is provided in both English and French.

Disneyland® Paris

Add some extra sparkle and wow-factor to your school trip with a visit to Disneyland® Paris! If you’ve not been before you’ll be amazed at the range of more than 50 unforgettable rides and experiences. Divided into two connecting parks, Disneyland Park and the Walt Disney Studios Park - you can choose a single park ticket, or Hopper, allowing you access to both. There are shows, parades and seasonal spectaculars – even educational packs and activities if that’s what you are looking for. It’s really so much more than a theme park. And if you have been before, no doubt you are already planning your return visit!

Eiffel Tower

See it and see from it! Enjoy the panoramic views of the city and include the tower itself as the backdrop to your own photographs, because you cannot visit Paris and not visit the iconic Eiffel Tower. It’s the defining symbol of Paris – indeed of France. The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 to commemorate 100 years since the French Revolution, and for more than four decades it held the record as the tallest structure in the world. It has welcomed more than 250 million visitors, and in 2009 celebrated its 120th birthday – no mean feat for a structure that was originally designed to stand for only 20 years!

On-site activities

Challenge yourselves with a selection of on-centre PGL activities from Axe Throwing to Archery Tag.

Parc Astérix

Choose Parc Astérix for a theme park experience with a very French feel as you share your day’s adventures with the much-loved French cartoon characters, Astérix and Obélix. Known in particular for its wide range of roller coasters and the fantastic aquatic theatre, it is a good alternative to Disneyland Paris for an exciting and action-packed day out.

Paris Montparnasse tower

With quizzes in French or English, maths challenges and various other activities designed for school groups, the 689ft Paris Montparnasse tower offers a good alternative to the Eiffel Tower – and of course offers the opportunity to include the Eiffel Tower as part of your Paris panorama! It takes 38 seconds to travel from the ground floor to the 56th floor, 640 feet above ground level, in one of the fastest lifts in Europe. From the panoramic windows of the deck that circles the floor there are stunning 360o views over the city. And don’t miss the climb to the 59th floor to enjoy the open air roof terrace too.

Sacré Cœur & Montmartre

Walk around Montmartre to share the experiences of some of the most famous and influential artists who lived here - Matisse, Picasso, Van Gogh to name but a few. Then eat your packed lunch sitting on the steps of the familiar sight of the basilica of the Sacré Cœur which can be seen from all over Paris and enjoy breathtaking views over the city. Montmartre is so distinctive - a hub of activity with a bohemian atmosphere which endures to the present day. Street artists will produce your portrait in any style you can think of, and busy bars, cafés and restaurants celebrate the varied and colourful history of the district.

What could be more French than a visit to a snail farm? The owner offers an interesting guided tour of his farm in French, full of information about snails and how the farm works; children have the chance to handle the snails – and even to taste them! See the snails at their liveliest with an evening visit by torchlight – though daytime visits are also popular and the farm also has a range of other animals to visit.

Stade de France

The home of French football and rugby international teams was originally opened in 1998 and hosted the FIFA World Cup in 1998 in which France beat Brazil 3-0 in the final. The Brazilian team were based in the same place as you that year! They stayed at the Château de Grande Romaine which PGL acquired just 2 years later in 2000. France’s iconic stadium is a visit that need not be limited to those with sporting interests. The guided tour provides insights into everything from its construction to the running of the stadium and the events held in it.

Home to possibly the most famous and controversial painting in the world, Leonardo Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, the Louvre is one of the world’s greatest art museums. A visit is a must – whether or not your group has a specific interest in art. With so much to see you can schedule as much time as you like – or a short visit to focus just on the highlights. Entrance to the permanent exhibition is free of charge and guided tours (usually taking 1.5 hours) are available in French or English to suit the needs of your group – or self-guide for ultimate flexibility.

–Select an activity–

If you love hide and seek, you’ll adore Ambush which takes this popular group game and ramps it up an extra notch! After sundown your group will split into small teams, with one team hiding within the centre grounds, leaving a trail for their competitors to follow. Great for developing strategic and team building skills. Ambush is usually run in the dark, and torches are advised. Available September to March

Balloon Splash

Each team completes a series of challenges or games to earn coins that will allow them to purchase items from a mystery box! Teams will then work closely together to create the best contraption to protect their water balloon from destruction.

The ultimate way to enjoy the great outdoors as a group! Enjoy a campfire tailored to your requirements. Get hands-on constructing your campfire during the day, and it will be lit ready for you to enjoy in the evening. If your group loves to sing or simply relax with some games around the campfire, our team can cater for all ages in the idyllic settings of our campfires.

Crêpe Making

A relaxing evening of board games and music while guests take it in turn to create their very own pancake. Mix and cook your own pancakes and choose from a selection of tasty toppings available to build your own topping tower!

A popular last night choice, guests learn the moves to popular hits with “follow-the-leader” sessions, plus lots of unique PGL dances! A fun and sociable evening.

PGL Tournament

At PGL Tournament guests will play a series of exciting team games and complete a selection of individual challenges to determine which team is the best! Challenges include: Basketball Shoot, Human Skittle and Ultimate Frisbee

In teams, guests are set Q&A-style challenges with lots of interaction and plenty of variety to keep them motivated and to maximise their participation. As well as general knowledge, rounds may include dressing up, dancing and miming.

Silent Disco

Party the night away without the noise of a disco. Every guest has their own set of headphones, where guests can select music from a number of channels to find the tunes they enjoy. Then spend the evening dancing away with friends or trying to guess what song your friends are listening to.

Programme Available at

Paris – Château de Grande Romaine

This pretty French château is perfectly placed to explore the delights of Paris and Northern France. Nestled in scenic countryside and woodland, this centre boasts an outdoor heated swimming pool and fantastic facilities.

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• August 28, 2024

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Our most popular school trips to France

France is continually our most popular destination and the team at Select School Travel offer a wealth of knowledge to help our groups get the best from their school trip. As our closest European neighbour, accessibility keeps the cost of trips down meaning more students get the chance to travel. There are numerous choices for teachers looking to take an educational school trip, in a wide range of subject areas. Here are some of our most popular choices:

• School Trips to the Opal Coast – only 45 minutes from Calais, this is a great choice for Primary schools and French language and culture for Years 7 and 8.
• WWII D-Day Landing tour – history trips to Normandy are always popular, especially as the Château du Baffy is only 15 minutes away.
• Paris – art trips to Paris are ever popular alongside general cultural and language trips.
• 2-centre tours to Normandy and Paris – more and more groups are looking to maximise their time and learning experiences by taking a 2-centre school trip.
• Disneyland Paris – a popular choice for activity weeks.
• Normandy – popular with primary school residential trips with Bayeux only 15 minutes from the Château du Baffy.
• WWI history trips to the Somme – often linked with Ypres in Belgium.
• Christmas Markets in Lille – a great way to boost language skills as well as getting into the festive spirit.

View the full range of school trips to France here >

Visit the Château du Baffy website >Château du Baffy website >

by Ewan Cheyne

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School Trips to France

About france.

School trips to France are always a hugely memorable part of school life, and France is our most popular destination, offering so many fantastic opportunities!

France has a wide range of exciting experiences to enjoy; whether it’s a day trip to the Opal Coast, 4 days spent exploring Paris, soaking up French culture in the Loire Valley or enjoying the magic of Disneyland.

France offers trips that are generally great value for money and they are a perfect way to engage students in a number of different areas of the curriculum. Practice the French language, visit iconic art galleries or discover WW1 and WW2 battlefields.  France is also the perfect destination for cross-curriculum trips.

Disneyland® Paris

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School Trips to France

Full of bohemian soul and coastal beauty

From classic Parisian city scenes to enchanting rural villages, France offers a beautiful mix of urban edge and historic charm. Our school trips to France will take you off the beaten path and into the cultural heart of this enchanting country. Brimming with renowned cultural hotspots, significant historical sites and pretty maritime towns, not to mention an irresistible cuisine, France is nothing but perfection.

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For your financial security, you must have insurance when travelling with us, whether it be your own or the insurance we provide through Aviva. We highly recommend our insurance because it’s tailored specifically for school groups and offers cover for Covid related cancellation and curtailment.

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School trips to Paris

Need something bespoke.

We know Paris incredibly well – some of us even hail from there!

So we know that school trips to Paris offer endless exciting opportunities for a variety of subjects, including French, art, fashion, business studies, science, history and food technology.

As a bonus, the short journey times from the UK make a school trip to Paris very practical and affordable, with day trips an option.

So, whatever your subject area, our educational travel experts will tailor-make your trip to ensure that it meets your curriculum and specific learning objectives. We understand the importance of a well-planned itinerary, ensuring that your students make the most of their time in this vibrant city.

Plus, we'll be with you every step of the way, including while you're in France – we'll just be one phone call away, whatever the time of day or night.

Why visit Paris?

The cultural heart of france.

As well as being the capital, Paris is also the cultural heart of France and the romance, beauty, food and buzz of the French capital will certainly make an impression on your students. On your Paris trip, stroll along the magnificent boulevards, enjoy great works of art and savour the atmosphere.

Art and history groups are well catered for in Paris – some of the world’s most famous art galleries and museums are in the French capital, including the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay.

And, of course, a school tour to Paris wouldn’t be complete without seeing its iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame. All of this will help your students to understand French national identity and culture.

Get your students talking!

Are you a French teacher?

Paris is the perfect setting for a trip designed to immerse your students in the French language and culture. They'll have the opportunity to explore all Paris offers through their linguistic skills, resulting in an unforgettable and enriching experience.

You can choose to spend your time sightseeing and taking part in cultural activities that will allow your students to use their French language skills in everyday, practical situations, and significantly improve their speaking and listening abilities.

We can also arrange French lessons at a specialist language school , which is a fantastic option for groups preparing for exams.

The incredible food

Of course, Paris is an incredible setting for an educational trip designed to introduce students to all the delights of French cuisine - perfect for a food technology group.

On your Paris school trip, you’ll be able to visit traditional bakers and patisseries to learn about some of the traditions that are integral parts of Parisian culture, such as the baguette and the magnificent pastries that glow in the windows of every patisserie in town.

Your students will go home with a greater appreciation of the integral elements of French cuisine and the special place it holds in French culture.

Browse our trips

School french culture trip to paris.

School French Language Study Trip to Paris

School Art Trip to Paris

School Science Trip to Paris

School Primary Languages Trip to Paris

School Food Technology Trip to Paris

School Fashion Trip to Paris

School Business Studies Trip to Paris

School History Trip to Paris

Why Halsbury Education trips?

We build your trip around you.

Tell us your learning objectives, curriculum and budget and we’ll do the rest.

We’re trusted for a reason

We’re members of ABTA, ABTOT and the School Travel Forum. We also hold an ATOL and the LOtC Quality Badge.

Our Education specialists

Laura Lucas

Tour Consultant

Tom Moorhouse

Gaynor Mayor

Education Sales & Product Manager

Laura Martin

Language Sales & Product Manager

Emma Gray da Silva

Lou Della Rocca

Gail Biggins

Judit Eleod

Paul Hudson

Michelle Hallam

Caroline Hill

Gayle Flude

Vanessa Barbosa

Meet our education specialists and get to know more about the people committed to making your school trip the best it can be. 

Learn more about Paris school trips

Read some of our latest blogs covering school trips to Paris.

28 Apr 2020

5 Interesting Facts for Your School Trip to Paris

Laura Martin, one of our experienced Tour Advisers has visited Paris several times and knows the city well. Here are her top 5 most interesting facts about the city that you need to know before you travel there on your school trip.

20 Sept 2017

Our Trip to Paris

We recently visited the French capital to check out all the exciting opportunities it offers for school trips!

25 Aug 2022

Free Things to do in Paris!

Want to keep costs down on your school trip to Paris? Check out our top tips for free things to do!

06 Feb 2018

Spotlight on...Paris!

Paris is a classic destination for a school trip – and there’s good reason for that!

Activities in Paris that your school group will love

Louvre museum.

Bateaux Mouches

Pompidou Centre

Musée de l'Orangerie

Musee d'Orsay

Paris Adventure Trail

Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie

Sacre-Coeur Basilica

Food Walking Tour

Guided Tour of La Defense

Rungis Market

Musée Yves Saint Laurent

Avenue des Champs-Elysées

Eiffel Tower

Tour Montparnasse (Observatoire Panoramique)

Notre-Dame Cathedral

Bateaux Parisiens

Fat Tire Bike Tours Paris

Disneyland® Paris

How long should we spend in Paris?

Can i arrange a cross-curricular school trip to paris, when should we visit paris, what's the best way to get around paris, which visits are a must in paris, are there any free things to do in paris.

Let's chat!

10 Best Day Trips from Paris

Published : August 28, 2024

Michelle Palmer

Table of contents.

• Palace of Versailles
• Château de Fontainebleau
• Castle Tours in Loire Valley
• Château de Chantilly
• Reims – The Champagne Region of Paris
• Giverny — Claude Monet's House and Garden
• Auvers-sur-Oise — Vincent van Gogh’s Last Residence
• Disneyland Paris
• Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Plan you Paris Trip with AAA

When planning your trip to Paris, you may want to see a bit more of France than only the capital. It can be a nice way to get out of the busy city for a slower-paced day or to visit an area of special interest. Day trips from Paris not only save you from checking out of your hotel and transporting your luggage to a new city or village but also allow you to see a different side of the beautiful country. Plus, many day trips or only a train ride away, though some are easier to reach by bus tour.

For castles and palaces, the Palace of Versailles is undoubtedly the most popular, but you also can spend a day at Château de Fontainebleau, Loire Valley or Château de Chantilly. If culinary tourism is your thing, consider Champagne region of France and enjoy Champagne tastings accompanied by tours of historic Champagne houses. There are also Paris day trips that appeal to art and history lovers with villages like Giverny where Claude Monet lived and Normandy with strong ties to World War II history.

No matter your interest, with a little planning, you can add a fulfilling day trip from Paris to your vacation itinerary.

1. Palace of Versailles

Suggested tours:

• Versailles Palace Guided Tour with Coach Transfer from Paris
• Versailles Best of Domain Skip-the-Line Access Day Tour with Lunch from Paris

How to get there: You can travel to Versailles from Paris on your own by train in about an hour on the C line of the RER train. You need either a Paris Visite pass for zones 1-5 or a point-to-point ticket to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station or a Navigo Day Ticket.

Versailles is a top day trip from Paris with the Palace of Versailles being one of the best things to do in Paris among visitors. This must-see palace is an example of royal opulence, and you can tour the palace and the estate gardens on your own, with an audio guide or on guided tours. The estate is large and a visit here requires a lot of walking. Wear comfortable shoes. Also plan to spend a few hours here or even an entire day if you want to see the gardens as well as the Grand Trianon and the Petit Trianon, other residences on the estate. You’ll see where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette lived as well as learn about their lives and legacy.

If you've been to the Palace of Versailles or want to split your time between the palace and the town, Versailles has more to see. The Gallery of Coaches is a free display of royal carriages located in the royal stables. You can also visit the Marche Notre Dame, a food market where there are stalls selling street foods, and you browse seasonal produce, cheese and wine. The covered portion of the market is open Tuesday through Sunday, and the open-air market is open Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. The market closes in the early afternoon.

2. Château de Fontainebleau

• Fontainebleau and Vaux le Vicomte Chateaux Day Trip from Paris
• Fontainebleau Forest Half Day Hot-Air Balloon Ride with Chateau de Fontainebleau

How to get there: To travel on your own to Château de Fontainebleau, depart from Gare de Lyon station taking the R line on the Transilien train and depart at the Fontainebleau-Avon station, and hop on bus 1 taking it to the Château stop. Opt for a Paris Visite pass or a Navigo Day Ticket for zones 1-5 for this journey.

The Château de Fontainebleau dates back to the Middle Ages, though the palace went through an extensive rebuilding process in the 16th century. It was a residence of French royalty and rulers to the 19th century. This palace is less visited than the Palace of Versailles, so it is a great option for those looking to escape the crowds. A ticket will get you admission to the Grands Appartements and the Napoleon I Museum. You'll have the chance to view murals, paintings and an extensive collection of decorative arts from different rulers. Give yourself at least two hours to tour the palace because you can spend longer, especially if you opt to spend time on the grounds meandering through the gardens.

The village of Fontainebleau also has outdoor activities to enjoy. Bouldering is a popular pastime, and visitors also can enjoy taking on of the many trails in the Fontainebleau forest. Alternatively, you can rent a small rowboat and head out onto Carps Pond. For a unique experience, book a hot-air balloon ride for a bird's-eye view of the region.

3. Castle Tours in Loire Valley

• Loire Valley Castles Day Trip from Paris with Wine Tasting
• Loire Valley Castles Small-Group Day Trip from Paris
• Loire Valley Day Tour From Paris

How to get there: Many of the castles in the Loire Valley are not easily accessible by public transportation, so the best way to get to the castles is by tour bus or a car rental.

The many castles of the Loire Valley make touring this area one of the best day trips from Paris. You can find tours that visit different castles but two of the most popular options are Château de Chambord and Château Chenonceau. Touring these sites offers an insight into some of the royals of France’s past as well as a chance to see luxurious decorations, furnishings and tapestries as well as paintings by well-known European artists.

Château de Chambord is an enormous structure on which construction started in the early 16th century and was not fully completed until the 17th century during the reign of Louis XIV. The architectural style mirrors the architecture of the Italian Renaissance, and while it was never used as a personal residence, it was used to host ambassadors and other dignitaries.

On the other hand, Château Chenonceau , also built in the 16th century, has been a home to several French nobles. This palace is uniquely built with part of the structure spanning across a river held up by a foundation of arches.

4. Château de Chantilly

Suggested tour:

• Chantilly Tour: Great Stables and Renaissance Meal from Paris

How to get there: From Gare du Nord, take a TER train to Gare Chantilly-Gouvieux. The journey takes about 25 minutes. From there, it's a 15- to 25-minute walk to Château de Chantilly. On weekends and holidays, you may be able to catch a shuttle bus that takes tourists up to the castle. Tickets for TER trains can be purchased from the SNCF website or at the train statin. Note that the RER line D has a stop in at Gare Chantilly-Gouvieux, but your journey on the train can increase to a little over an hour depending on your departure station.

The gorgeous Château de Chantilly is a popular Paris day trip to see the impressive interiors decorated in royal colors of deep reds and purples. You can tour the library, private apartments and reception rooms, much of which is decorated in the style of the 18th and 19th centuries. The art here is also a big draw. The collection of Henri d'Orleans, Duke of Aumale, is on display and is full of paintings from well-known European artists, like Raphael, Titian and Anthony van Dyck.

If you can, time your visit for an equestrian show. Buy your tickets for the show ahead of your visit because of the limited seating. And whether or not you can see the show, you should also tour the Great Stables. There are paintings and sculptures, displays of horse tack from a range of periods. If you visit the house, and stables, and see the equestrian show, your visit will span most of the day. For convenience, have lunch at one of the three on-site restaurants. Service ranges from a full-service restaurant to a cafe serving sandwiches. The full-service restaurant, La Capitainerie, is in one of the palace’s kitchens and takes reservations on weekdays.

5. Reims – The Champagne Region of Paris

• Champagne and Reims Tasting Day Trip from Paris
• Champagne Region Private Day Trip from Paris

How to get there: To travel to Reims on your own, book a ticket on the TVG train. A direct ride from Gare de l'Est in Paris to the train station in Reims takes little more than 45 minutes. Be careful when booking trains. Routes that have stops and transfers can take around 90 minutes or longer. Tickets can be booked through the SNCF website or at the station.

Reims is one of the best Paris day trips to the Champagne Region of France. You can take Champagne-tasting tours to the vineyards and Champagne houses. Trying some of the French bubbly, touring the cellars and learning about the Champagne-making process. In addition to Champagne, Reims also contains historic sites. The town suffered bombings in World War II, and when rebuilding took place, many buildings were constructed in an art deco style.

Some of the popular Champagne houses to visit include Veuve Clicquot , Champagne Pommery and the Taittinger Champagne House . You can book tours and tastings of the Champagne houses directly on your own so you can go at your own pace or find a tour that will take you around the houses and take care of the logistics for you. Don't leave without trying the pink cookies that are a specialty of Reims or perhaps buying a bag for the road. These vanilla-flavored delights are called pink biscuits or biscuits rose and are meant to pair with a glass of Champagne.

6. Giverny — Claude Monet's House and Garden

• Giverny Small-Group Half Day Trip with Monet’s Gardens from Paris
• Giverny and Monet's Garden Tour , a bike tour

How to get there: To travel to Giverny by train, depart from the Gare Saint-Lazare on a TER train to the Vernon stop. From there take the Grandes Lignes exit to get to the bus stop for a shuttle that will take you into Giverny. Tickets for the train can be purchased at the station or online from SNCF, and the fare for the Vernon to Giverny shuttle can be purchased on the shuttle.

Giverny is a small town outside of Paris. The main attraction here is Claude Monet's House and Gardens. Monet is a notable artist from the impressionism art movement, and his work can be found in many museums, including in the Musée d'Orsay in Paris. On a visit to his former residence, you can take a self-guided tour of his lounge, kitchen and bedroom as well as his artist studio filled with replicas of his paintings to represent how the studio appeared when he actively used it.

You'll also have the opportunity to tour his gardens, which he built to inspire his art, including the water lilies, a particularly famous subject in his work. The gardens are lush with a pond, colorful blooms and archways covered in climbing plants. The whimsical setting is well worth the day trip from Paris, especially for fans of his art. Expect to spend around two hours at Monet's House and Gardens. The attraction is open from March to early November. If traveling during peak season in summer, purchase tickets ahead of your visit to save time at the entrance.

7. Auvers-sur-Oise — Vincent van Gogh’s Last Residence

• Giverny Monet's Garden & Auvers-sur-Oise with van Gogh House Full Day From Paris
• Hiking Adventure in van Gogh's Footsteps (7.5 miles walk)

How to get there: From Gare Saint-Lazare, take line J to Gare de Pontoise where you'll transfer to line H and depart at Gare d'Auvers-sur-Oise. Tickets can be purchased online from SNCF.

The small village of Auvers-sur-Oise is most known as the last home of Vincent van Gogh. The now-popular artist, most known for paintings like "The Starry Night," lived a short life. Though he was plagued by then little-understood mental illness, he was a prolific painter. Van Gogh only lived in the town for 70 days before his death, but in that time, he painted many scenes around the village, filling some 80 canvases with paint.

While here, you can visit Auberge Ravoux , the inn where van Gogh rented a room where he lived and died during his time in Auvers-sur-Oise. He and his brother Theo are buried in the cemetery. While here, take the Painter's Pathway , a self-guided tour put together by the village's Office of Tourism, for sights to see that are important to not only van Gogh but also to many other painters who were attracted to this village for its scenic beauty.

8. Disneyland Paris

Suggested Activities:

• Disneyland Paris Entrance Ticket
• Disneyland Paris Multi-Day Ticket

How to get there: There are a few options to get to Disneyland Paris. From the city, you can buy tickets on the Disneyland Express bus service that departs between 8:30 and 9 a.m. from the Eiffel Tower area, Opéra Garnier and Châtelet, but the return trip on the shuttle may depart earlier than you care to leave the theme park. The park is also easily accessible via public transportation. From Gare Saint-Lazare take line A on the RER train. Depart at Marne-La-Vallée, and from there, it is a short walk to Disneyland Paris.

Disneyland Paris is made up of two parks, Disneyland Park and Walt Disney Studios Park. At both, you'll find rides similar to those of Disney parks in the U.S., such as Disney World in Orlando , Florida, and also new ones that you may not have seen before. Disneyland Park is divided into lands, Adventureland, Discoverland, Fantasyland and Frontierland. The castle is modeled after the Sleeping Beauty Castle, and next to it, you'll find La Tanière du Dragon (The Dragon's Lair), a ride where you can explore a fantasy dragon's abode. You'll also find Peter Pan-themed areas, an Indiana Jones ride and more. At Walt Disney Studio Park , rides and areas are themed after Pixar, Marvel, Frozen, Aladdin and other animated films. There's also a shopping area outside of the parks that's free to enter called Disney Village .

9. Saint-Germain-en-Laye

Suggested activity: Walking and Tasting Tour of Saint Germain En Laye

How to get there: Saint-Germain-en-Laye can be reached from Paris on the RER line A. It's about a 45-minute travel time from the Gare Saint-Lazare station. This village is in zone 4. You could get a point-to-point ticket, but that doesn't include any other public transportation during the day. To use the busses and other transportation with ease, consider purchasing a Navigo Day Ticket that includes zones 1-4 or a Paris Visite pass for zones 1-5.

Saint-Germain-en-Laye is an old village that has winding roads that are fun to explore, turning corners to see what shop front lies ahead. At Place du Marché each Tuesday, Friday and Sunday, vendors set up an open-air market selling mostly produce, but you'll also find baked goods, flowers and other items.

You can also tour the Musée d'Archéologie Nationale (National Archeological Museum) housed in the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, a palace first built in the 12th century. There are also plenty of parks for strolls if you are looking for some fresh air and green spaces. The historical aspect of the village is great for history buffs; Saint-Germain-en-Laye was the residence of many royals and the birthplace of more than a few, including Louis XIV. It's also an excellent option for people seeking a day trip with a slower pace than the busy Paris attractions, especially during peak travel season in summer.

10. Normandy

• Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Day Trip with Cider Tasting & Lunch from Paris
• Normandy D-Day Small-Group Day Trip with Omaha Beach, Cemetery & Cider Tasting

How to get there: While you can get to Normandy (specifically Bayeux and Caen) by train, it's best to book a guided tour if you only have one day to see the region because World War II-specific sites are spread out.

It's undeniable that World War II was a significant moment in time, and Normandy, where the Allied troops landed on the beaches on D-Day, remains a popular place for not only World War II history buffs but those who have a more casual interest in the momentous part of history. If you have time, there is enough in Normandy to warrant spending a night or two, but if a day is all you have, you can see several important sites. Prepare for a long day; bus tours from Paris range from 12 to 14 hours in length.

Different tours of course will prioritize different sites, so read the itinerary carefully if there is a specific place you want to visit. Common stops include Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, two of five landing spots on D-Day; the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial , where over 9,000 military personnel are buried, most of whom died during the D-Day Invasion; and Pont du Hoc, a site where German bunkers and machine guns were set up.

Paris is one of the top cities in Europe to visit , but if it's your first time, planning might be intimidating. Check out our guide to Paris for first time visitors for things you need to know like the best time visit Paris, how to navigate the city and more. If you want a little more help planning, contact a AAA Travel Agent , a free service to AAA members , and if you don't want to travel on your own and would rather take a guided vacation, take a look at our AAA Vacations ® offerings for Paris.

Michelle Palmer is a development editor who has over 10 years of experience in the travel publishing industry. She loves telling the stories, histories and culture of places that inspire others to go and experience new destinations. When not traveling, she participates in circus arts, goes to live shows and is a “Murder, She Wrote” aficionado.

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5 Scenic Day Trips From Paris For You

Paris, the City of Light, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and romance . But beyond its iconic landmarks and bustling streets lies a world of destinations waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or simply looking to escape the city’s hustle and bustle, these five beautiful day trips from Paris offer something for everyone. From the opulent palaces and gardens of Versailles to the charming town of Chartres, each destination promises a unique and unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to discover these gems just a short journey from Paris. Here are five must-visit day trips that will make your Parisian adventure even more magical.

The Palace of Versailles, just a short 23 km from Paris, is one of France's most historically significant sites. The palace's grandeur, with its Hall of Mirrors, lavishly decorated rooms, and expansive gardens, makes it a must-visit. The meticulously manicured gardens, with fountains, statues, and the Grand Canal, are perfect for a stroll. While in Versailles, you can also explore the Trianon palaces and Marie Antoinette's Estate, which offer a more intimate glimpse into royal life . A visit to Versailles provides a glimpse into the splendour of French royalty, and it’s an easy and rewarding day trip from Paris.

Giverny, located about 75 km from Paris, is a picturesque village famous for being the home of Claude Monet, the father of Impressionism. The highlight of a trip to Giverny is visiting Monet’s house and gardens, which inspired some of his most famous works, including the iconic water lilies series. The gardens are a riot of colour, with flowers blooming every season, and the Japanese bridge over the water lily pond is instantly recognizable. After exploring Monet's gardens, you can visit the Museum of Impressionism, which features works by Monet and other Impressionist painters. Giverny offers a serene and artistic escape from the bustle of Paris.

Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is home to the magnificent Château de Fontainebleau, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Nestled, about 78 km from Paris, this royal residence was home to French monarchs for over 700 years, from Louis VII to Napoleon III. The château’s vast interior is filled with opulent rooms, galleries, and chapels, showcasing a blend of Renaissance and classical architecture. The surrounding Fontainebleau Forest is equally impressive, offering miles of hiking trails, rock climbing opportunities, and beautiful natural scenery. A day trip to Fontainebleau combines history, art, and nature perfectly.

Chartres is best known for its cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Chartres, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its intricate stained glass windows dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries. The cathedral’s two contrasting spires, one Romanesque and the other Gothic, dominate the skyline of the charming town. Chartres is a lovely town to explore, with its narrow medieval streets, half-timbered houses, and beautiful riverside walks. A visit to Chartres, about 100 km southwest of Paris, offers a peaceful retreat with a rich cultural experience.

Located about 144 km from Paris, Reims is the unofficial capital of the Champagne region and a city steeped in history. The town is famous for its magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Reims, where French kings were crowned for over a thousand years. The cathedral is a living example of Gothic architecture, with its intricate façade and beautiful stained glass windows. Reims is also the perfect place to indulge in a champagne-tasting tour, with many famous Champagne houses offering guided tours and tastings.

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