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Paris day trip via train - specific recommendations/grandparent travel

Hello, I realize this is a popular topic, but I have some specific questions around a day trip from Paris.

I'm traveling to Paris with my family - including parents who have limited to mobility. I am looking for a great day trip from Paris that would be easy to walk a historical city center, has some great historical stops, safe/pleasant/easy (no massive hills or stairs). We are obsessed with many veins of history and would be looking for a hook wherever we go. We love spending time in historical buildings, churches, museums.

We have been to Giverny, Fontainebleau, Versailles, Normandy beaches, Bayeaux (a favorite!), Amboise/Loire, Chartes and wouldn't want to repeat those, We have seen many chateaux's so that is less appealing this go around.

Places I am considering - Rouen, Reims, Dijon and Bordeaux. I don't mind a longer train ride for a spectacular experience. Rouen has been tops on my list, but many things I want to see are closed for renovation. I don't know much about the others - and know there are probably a million other places to recommend. Would love some insight!

Posted by
12123 posts

We enjoyed our visit to Strasbourg with it’s mix of French and German cultures.

Posted by
506 posts

You didn't mention St. Denis and the Cathedral is stunning.

Chateau Vaux Le Viconte is outstanding. I was there at Christmas and one of the most incredible experiences I have ever had. Will be going back in July.

Amiens may be too far afield for the day.

Vincennes, just a tad east of Paris is very nice.

Posted by
509 posts

Reims isn’t particularly nice for wandering around, and the cathedral was being restored last October. Dijon is fine, but I wouldn’t call it the spectacular experience you’re looking for. I’d go with the Strasbourg suggestion.

Posted by
424 posts

I second the recommendation of the Vaux le vicomte. Its gardens were designed by LeNotre, who designed the gardens at Versailles afterwards. The chateau is gorgeous.

It’s nice for older folks because it doesn’t get the massive crowds, making it easier to get around and enjoy.

Posted by
3046 posts

Strasbourg and Rouen both sound like a good fit for you for a day trip. Both takeless than two hours each way. I would figure on a long, full day. Of course, since you are in France you will take a break and rest your feet with coffee or aperitifs, as well as lunch. My 82 year old bones could handle a day in either city very comfortably. Lots of history in either place, plus beautiful architecture and churches. And good food!
To me Bordeaux is too far for a one day visit. You wouldn't have enough time there. Likewise Dijon. But that is just me. I no longer move very quickly, so Rouen and Strasbourg seem better to me and more navigable for a day's visit.