cooncat

As many of you have read I am coming to Paris at the end of April. It will be my beau's first trip to Europe, but I've been many times, and to France twice. I love the villages and smaller towns... Sarlat, Arles, Semure en Auxois, Collognes-la Rouge, Autoire, Chinon....Oh how I love France. We only have 7 full days but I wonder if there is a day trip out of Paris via train (or bus)that would give me that feel and let my guy see a bit more of the country? I've been to Chartres, so don't really want to go there. Any thoughts would be appreciated. A million thanks!

Robespierre

Amiens. Lovely old town with lots of history (most of it about wars) and a stunning cathedral.

They're having a year-long festival honoring a favorite son, Jules Verne. Here's the brochure from amiens.fr:

<b>http://www.amiens.fr/decouvrir/tourisme/document/avantprogrammeJV.pdf</b>

Gretchen

Auvers sur Oise--Van Gogh's town. There is a long post here about Conflans on a Sunday that would be just about perfect I would think. Maybe someone can search for it.

LynFrance

How about Honfleur. It's hard to beat for charm and the surrounding countryside is
really beautiful.

Chantilly is closer, and fun, especially if you have an interest in horses

jody

All of the above are good..you could add Senlis to chantilly and have a twofer!

We liked St Germain-en-Laye..just a short RER ride from Paris

Robespierre

Hardly a day trip, since it's out at the east end of M&eacute;tro Ligne 1 - Vincennes castle is worth the ride. There's a forest, a zoo, and a floral park too. It's a nice break from the hustle-bustle of Paris.

<b>vincennes.fr</b>

Travelnut

I haven't done this but I want to... it is a short train ride to Troyes, which has an interesting medieval center... as does nearby smaller Provins (not sure you can get a train directly to Provins)..Request tourist brochures immediately and they will get to you in time.

http://www.tourisme-troyes.com/welcome/index.htm

http://www.aube-champagne.com/troyes...g=en&amp;zone=

jpie

Hi, if you take travelnut's suggestion and go to Troyes be sure to check out Pascal Caffet Chocolates

http://www.pascal-caffet.com/boutiqu...cal_caffet.htm

LarryJ

Consider Rouen. Great old town, site of the execution of St. Joan of Arc, one of the most beautiful cathedrals in all of Europe (inside and out), so much so Monet practically made a career of painting it and lots of half-timbered buildings. One hour and 6 minutes from Gare St.Lazare station in Paris..........geez...that was so impressive I think I'll buy a train ticket myself.

Larry J

rex

Gisors.

Best wishes,

Rex

cooncat

Wow! Thanks everyone. I will do a bit more research on your suggestions. I'll let everyone know about the trip when we get back.

Merci, Merci,
Sharon

cooncat

Travelnut - that Troyes web site was great! That may be just the ticket!

Travelnut

I know! I want to go, too!
I sent off for a packet of brochures - I love looking at all the 'goodies' while sipping my morning coffee...

I think I just sent an email to the Tourist Office address, asking for brochures...

SAnParis

I am a St. Germain-en-Laye fan as well.

StCirq

There are SO many possibilities! I'll second Auvers-sur-Oise for its Van Gogh connections and fabulous ch&acirc;teau exposition, but also suggest Chantilly and Senlis, which can easily be combined in a day trip.

RonZ

If anyone would like to receive my daytrip file, just request by e mail.

cooncat

What is there to do or the attraction of St. Germian-en-Laye? Thanks!

Travelnut

Chateau / gardens
Museum
Higher elevation / view over Paris

http://www.jack-travel.com/IledeFran...m_chateau1.htm