If you’re on an extended work or study placement in historical Paris, France, don’t restrict yourself to just staying in the city for the entire duration of your Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme mobility. There are many fabulous cities close to Paris, that are just a hop, skip and a jump away! Jumping on a train from Paris Gar du Nord is so easy, so we encourage you to explore other places and see as much of France as you can. Weekends are the ideal time to take advantage of lower-cost travel, so enjoy a day trip or pack an overnight bag and go on a mini-adventure! Here’s our pick of the best cities to visit, without blowing your budget!
Versailles
You can’t go to Paris and not see Versailles! It’s only 20km from Paris, and of course, it’s home to the Palace of Versailles which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Buy a ticket and explore the magnificence of old, opulent France, we’d especially recommend visiting the Hall of Mirrors, ambling around the Versailles gardens and seeing the Petit Trianon. Versailles has plenty more to offer too, from quaint, pretty streets, busy markets and plenty of cafés to sip real French coffee. It’s a must-see!
Chartres
Only one hour by train from Paris, you’ll love Chartres! Go and see the cathedral which is renowned for its stained-glass windows and impressive architecture. There’s also the old town, which features timber-framed houses and picturesque riverbanks. Pick a nice day and picnic alongside the river with friends while watching the world go by.
Reims
If you take the fast train, you can get to Reims in around 45 minutes. This city is 130km Northeast of Paris and is known as the unofficial capital of the Champagne region. Go and visit the 13th century medieval Reims Cathedral, which is where French kings were anointed and crowned. As you’re in Champagne, spend some time at one of the champagne houses (especially Tattinger and Veuve Clicquot) to learn about how champagne is made (you might also enjoy a tasting!).
Giverny
This city is the home of Monet, the famed French artist. If you’re a art student or an art lover, you can visit Monet’s home and gardens. There’s a Japanese style garden featuring a water lily pond, a very tranquil and serene setting especially on a warm day. Spend time wandering through the streets, which are picturesque and almost village-like. Just on the outskirts, there’s some magnificent countryside to marvel at too!
Rouen
The capital of Normandy, Rouen is only around 1 hour and 20 minutes from Paris. Another city with lots of medieval architecture and rich in history, it’s a truly beautiful place. Did you know, Joan of Arc’s trial and execution took place in Rouen? There’s the cathedral too, which has a fantastic façade that was painted by Monet and the old town is the perfect place to explore, with its cobblestones and half-timber houses. Don’t miss market day and the many museums, including the Museum of Fine Arts.
Don’t forget to talk to the team at TravelEdventures if you want to spend some time studying or working in Paris. We can help your school, college or university (or other higher education institution) to get a group together and take part on an Erasmus+ or Turing Scheme placement abroad. Get in touch with us here.
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