Paris is one of the most visited cities in the world. It has world famous sights like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum. It’s not that we don’t appreciate beauty when we see it, it’s just that sometimes doing something different can be much more exciting.
At Economy Car Hire we are saying forget about the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame and the Champs-Elysees and get out of Paris. This is our guide to some fantastic day trips that will take you outside the city and into a new adventure.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your hire car now and get exploring some of the less visited areas around Paris.
The Early Bird Misses the Crowds
An hour’s drive northwest of the city will take you along the banks of the River Seine and into the countryside. The village of Giverny is a pretty place and it is the location of Claude Monet’s home and gardens. It’s easy to see why the Impressionist wanted to move here as the scenery is particularly beautiful.
In 1890, Monet moved to the village and bought a cottage. He was determined to create the beautiful gardens that would provide the famous subject of many of his paintings. Today, the house and gardens are a popular attraction as tourists are intrigued to see the location where most of Monet’s masterpieces were created.
The result of Monet’s gardening exploits were magnificent and they are a stellar attraction in their own right. It only adds to the magic that they are the subjects of some of the most famous paintings in the world. For example, the water lily pond is almost identical to how it was when it was first painted.
It does get very busy at peak times so the use of a hire car will allow you to leave Paris earlier and get there before the tours arrive.
Who Moved the Cathedral?
Also within an hour’s drive, but this time to the southwest, is the city of Chartres. The medieval city is a charming alternative to the busy Parisian streets. There is a quieter feel to the main areas and Chartres is a great place to visit if you are after a more welcoming city atmosphere. The main attraction in the city is most definitely the Notre Dame Cathedral. It is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and many consider it to be the best example of a Gothic Cathedral in France. In fact, most people come to the city just to see the cathedral so make sure it’s on your list of things to see.
The city has more to offer than just the cathedral and there is lots to do before you leave. You can take a relaxing boat trip down the river, or stroll around one of the beautiful municipal parks. You might also like to visit the eccentric Maison Picassiette, where the interior and exterior is covered with crockery, or visit the magnificent Chateau de Maintenon stately home. All in all, the city makes for a great day trip from Paris, and you could even stay a few nights if you wanted.
Magic Potion and White Knuckles
If you are looking for a bit of family fun outside the city then why not head over to the Parc Asterix. It is a 45 minute drive north from the city, and a great place to visit for the day. This theme park is based on the stories of Asterix the Gaul and his companion Obelix, and provides a good alternative to the busier Disneyland Paris.
You can ride on the Ghost Train or take your chances in the mad house. However, the most popular ride is the bobsleigh rollercoaster. With no tracks and reaching up to 80km/h it is a hair raising experience that you’ve got to try.
If you don’t plan to spend all day in the park then just a 25 minute drive away is the historic Chaalis Abbey. The Abbey is in ruins but there is enough here to make it worth a visit and there are beautiful gardens attached.
We Come in Peace!
To the southeast of the city around an hour’s drive away is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Provins. The medieval town will come into view in a dominating fashion, with its fortified walls and towers warning off all those who thought about invading. If you come in peace then a friendly welcome will be yours as you stroll round this old historic town.
Make sure you visit the Caesar Tower, Saint Jean’s Gate and the Ramparts to get a feel for the significant defences that the town has. The town slower pace lends itself to a day of relaxed sightseeing. Don’t tire yourself out and rush round, take your time, and enjoy yourself. The old Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church is the dominating building in the town with an ornate dome and delicate façade it is somewhere you will have to explore.
You can also visit the caves underneath the town. They were used as an old quarry for a local source of clay but they have left behind a fascinating network of tunnels and caves. Atmospherically lit, the caves are an exciting place to explore before you leave.
Anything Else?
If you are looking for other ideas for less touristy excursions then why not read some more of our posts on Hidden Gems? You may also like to read our guide on How to Avoid Extortionate Bank Charges Abroad.
