My third trip to Paris is coming up in October and I'm looking for a daytrip that would allow me to check out a small town type of feel. I've been to Giverny and have booked my Versailles trip already. I would like to stay within a 1 or 2 hour train ride out of Paris to make the most of my day. Since I'm going to Versailles already, I would like to avoid visiting another palace. I have RS Paris but am looking for some personal experiences from all of you out there Merci!
I cannot remember how much time it is by train to Chartres but the cathedral is worth a visit and the town is attractive. Auvers-sur-Oise might make a nice day trip out. A longer day trip could be Fountainbleau/Vaux-le-Compte-a bit complicated to combine the two but we made the trip by train/bus/taxi but definitely worth it. I should add that at certain times of the year there is a shuttle between Fountainbleau & Vaux but I don't think it runs in October.
It's an hour and a little bit out of Montparnasse down to Chartres. Ten or fifteen minutes to walk up to the cathedral.
Do consider Chartres. The Cathedral is well worth the trip and the town surrounding it is charming.
Why not add an overnight and explore another region. We did one night in Bayeaux , Normandy and enjoyed the area very much.