10 cities to go green just a few kilometers from Paris

N° 10 - Châlons-en-Champagne, relaxation along the water

Let's go to Gare de l'Est and jump on the first train to Châlons-en-Champagne! After an hour and a half trip, you will discover this picturesque medieval city whose undeniable charm is undoubtedly due to its numerous rivers and canals. Getting on board a boat and letting yourself be carried along the Marne is certainly the best way to discover it. And to celebrate, nothing better than a glass of champagne typical of the region!

N° 9 - Montargis, the "Venice of the Gâtinais

Between the Briare and Vernisson canals, Montargis owes its nickname of "Venice of the Gâtinais" to its 131 bridges and footbridges, its islands and canals! Located in the Loiret department, its proximity to Paris allows you to spend a relaxing day discovering its heritage and crafts. And if you really want to immerse yourself in nature, a forest of more than 4 400 hectares is at your disposal! Don't miss the last train!

N° 8 - Chantilly, the green at the end of the RER

Chantilly is a historic town, known for its famous estate which houses a castle, large stables and a 115 ha park! And that's not all, this charming town benefits from an exceptional setting: it is located in the heart of a vast forest that stretches between the Oise and the Val-d'Oise over more than 6,344 hectares! So much greenery... Without losing sight of culture, since Chantilly is home to the treasures of Henri d'Orléans in its Condé museum!

N° 7 - The Chevreuse Valley, the call of nature

Only 40 minutes from Paris, the Chevreuse Valley is a predominantly rural region. It is a very romantic area, which can be explored on foot or by bike to discover its numerous classified sites such as the Port-Royal barns museum or the Vaux en Cernay abbey. Don't miss its natural pearls such as the Bouillons de Cernay, impressive waterfalls that were one of the favorite places for ^19th century writers to walk.

N° 6 - Fontainebleau, nature at the gates of the capital

Every self-respecting Parisian has already taken advantage of a sunny day to walk in the forest of Fontainebleau. It must be said that not every capital city has the honor of being bordered by the largest forest in the country! This biosphere reserve covers 25,000 hectares. It is a paradise for climbing and hiking enthusiasts who can enjoy themselves in this preserved nature!

N° 5 - Auvers-sur-Oise, a village of artists

About 30 kilometers from Paris, Auvers-sur-Oise and its stone houses, steep paths and wheat fields have always inspired artists, especially the Impressionists. Don't miss the visit of the castle whose ^17th century architecture was inspired by the Medici. It offers a playful and interactive journey through ^19th century France to meet the great figures of Parisian life at that time.

N° 4 - Rambouillet and its forest

The forest of Rambouillet is one of the main forest massifs of France. On more than 200 ^km2, there are ponds, rocky areas, valleys, and even waterfalls. It is a choice terrain for hikers, less than an hour from Paris! It is also the last forest territory of the Yvelines where hunting is practiced. For a Sunday stroll with the family, the Rambouillet space, in the heart of the forest, allows you to discover its hidden fauna and flora.

N° 3 - Provins, a medieval jewel

At 1h30 from Paris, it is a historical change of scenery that awaits you. Welcome to Provins, land of troubadours and knights! The city has no less than 58 listed monuments, most of which date back to the 13th century. Its picturesque atmosphere is enhanced all year round by the many medieval festivals: falconer shows, banquets and knights' meetings will punctuate your visit. As for nature, don't miss the rose garden, it is sublime!

N° 2 - Honfleur, Norman beauty

A stone's throw from Deauville, known as the 21st arrondissement because of its great success with Parisians, Honfleur has an unequalled charm and a true village spirit. After 2 hours of travel, you will forget your routine to discover a colourful port, immortalized by the greatest painters, from Monet to Boudin via Dufy. You can breathe in the iodized air before enjoying a dish of shellfish facing the sea!

N° 1 - Giverny, the must-see

Second most visited site in Normandy, after the Mont Saint-Michel, Giverny owes its success to Claude Monet. The painter lived there from 1883 until his death, painting his most famous works such as the series of Water Lilies which represent the water lily pond of his house in more than 250 different paintings, depending on the daylight. Even today you can admire the famous Japanese bridge that you can see in the paintings... A real spectacle in this small village on the hillside, only a few kilometers from Paris.