Attractions Nearby Versailles, Day Trips and Excursions

(Versailles, Ile-de-France, France)

If you are staying in Versailles, then you simply must leave time to spend at least a day or two exploring the truly wondrous and exceptional attractions in Paris. Known throughout the world as the city of romance, central Paris is extremely close to Versailles and is overflowing with incredible attractions, many of which will already be familiar to you.

Fountainebleau is considerably quieter than Versailles and has much to offer day trippers, such as a wealth of quality restaurants, together with some lively nightspots. Also of interest, Chantilly can be found approximately 65 km / 40 miles north and is a rather elegant town, encompassed by spreading parkland and a series of large lakes.

Paris

Apart from the historic bridges, grand churches around almost every corner, Parisian fashion boutiques, and endless restaurants and cafes along stretches such as the Champs-Elysées, Paris is home to such monuments as the Eiffel Tower, the Sacre Couer, the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Montmartre, the Arc de Triomphe and the Opéra Garnier. And after a day's sightseeing, visitors from Versailles can sit back and take a seat, whilst enjoying a scenic sightseeing cruise down the River Seine. Disneyland Paris is yet another attraction, although it located on the city's outskirts.

Fountainebleau

Located around 72 km / 45 miles to the south-east of Versailles and slightly closer to Paris, Fountainebleau is a small town, with a population of just above 20,000 people. The city's main attraction is without doubt the Fountainebleau Palace (Château de Fountainebleau) and this simply enormous palace has a large number of different rooms. A 20,000-hectare / 49,420-acre forest known as the Fôret de Fountainebleau lies directly south of the palace and surrounds the entire town. Within the forest are some superb trails suitable for walking, jogging and even horse riding.

Chantilly

The Fôret de Chantilly is a popular attraction less than an hour from Versailles and affords a range of recreational activities, although the main draw card will probably be the Château de Chantilly. The gardens of the château are nothing short of spectacular and are amongst the most beautiful that France has to offer. Of particular interest is the Jardin Français (French Garden), which was laid out during the 17th century and features formal planting, flowerbeds and a long canal. Nearby, the Jardin Anglais (English Garden) is planted in a much wilder and more relaxed style.