Paris is a city that wears many hats. It’s a hub for art, history, and gastronomy, but what truly makes it shine are the full-day tours that take you beyond the city’s limits. Whether you’re craving a somber visit to the Normandy D-Day beaches, a day among the Loire Valley castles, or a fun-filled trip to Parc Astérix, Paris offers a wealth of options to tailor your experience. We’ve picked some of the top tours that provide enriching, memorable, and practical ways to see more of France in just one day. For example, the Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches tour lets you walk through history, while the Versailles full-day provides a deep dive into royal splendor. No matter your interest, these tours are worth the extra effort to enrich your time in Paris.
Quick Overview
Our list includes historical excursions like the Normandy D-Day Beaches, Mont Saint-Michel, and the Champagne region. For lovers of royal grandeur, the Versailles tours and Loire Valley castles are popular picks. Cultural and culinary pursuits shine in options like the Full-Day Cooking Classes and wine tastings in Chablis (full-day North Burgundy & Chablis wine tour). For families and thrill-seekers, there’s Parc Astérix. Each offers a unique way to experience France beyond Paris city limits.
1. From Paris: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Full-Day Tour
At number 1, this Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches tour offers a profound look at one of the most pivotal moments in 20th-century history. The 12-hour day trip from Paris explores the beaches where Allied forces launched their invasion on June 6, 1944. Your guide shares detailed stories, military maps, and photos to bring the campaign to life. You’ll visit Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery with over 10,000 white crosses, and a Nazi bunker that tells the story of the fierce fighting. It’s a comprehensive experience that balances history, respect, and emotional impact. The tour’s reviews highlight its 4.8/5 rating from 673 travelers, praising the knowledgeable guides and the emotional resonance of the sites. This trip is ideal for history buffs or anyone wanting a meaningful day outside Paris.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in World War II history or want to see the beaches where history was made, this tour delivers depth and insight for a good value.
2. Paris: Parc Astérix Full-Day Entrance Ticket
For those visiting Paris with family or friends looking for a fun, energetic day, the Parc Astérix offers over 50 attractions, shows, and rides. For just $63, this 1-day adventure features everything from Roman roller coasters to log flumes, inspired by the Asterix comics. It’s a lively place with new attractions like Toutatis, and the upcoming Cétautomatix ride for 2025 promises more thrills. It’s a fantastic choice for kids and adults alike who want a break from museums and history, with plenty of options for laughs and adrenaline. The reviews note the park’s great value and the variety of rides, making it perfect for a full day of entertainment.
Bottom line: If you’re traveling with kids or want a lively, amusement park experience near Paris, Parc Astérix is a reliable, fun-filled option.
3. From Paris: Reims and Champagne Tasting Full-Day Tour
Rated 4.8/5 from 549 reviews, this Reims and Champagne tour is a sparkling highlight for lovers of bubbly. The 11-hour journey takes you through the Champagne region, where you’ll see the stunning Reims Cathedral—famous for the coronation of French kings—and visit two renowned Champagne houses. Guided tastings in the caves reveal the secrets behind the region’s sparkling wines, complemented by a 3-course lunch. The tour combines cultural sightseeing, gastronomy, and education about Champagne production. Reviewers rave about the quality of the tastings and the scenic vineyard views. At around $408, it’s a premium experience but well worth the price for the depth of insight and taste.
Bottom line: For wine lovers eager to learn about and taste Champagne, this full-day trip hits all the right notes with expert guides and immersive visits.
4. Giverny Monet’s Garden & Auvers-sur-Oise with Van Gogh House
A favorite for art enthusiasts, this Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise tour combines the gardens of Monet and the village of Van Gogh’s final days. The tour’s 5.0 rating from 278 reviews reflects its quality. You’ll stroll Monet’s water lily pond and see the house where he lived and painted for over 40 years. In Auvers-sur-Oise, you’ll visit Van Gogh’s boarding house and his tomb, with anecdotes about their artistic lives. It’s an intimate experience, capped at just 8 people, offering personalized insights. The guide shares stories most visitors miss, making it a deep dive into Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.
Bottom line: Art lovers will value the personal stories and exclusive access to Monet’s and Van Gogh’s worlds on this well-reviewed, art-focused day trip.
5. From Paris: Full-Day Loire Valley Chateaux Tour
This 12-hour tour takes you to France’s fairytale landscape—the Loire Valley. For about $95, you’ll visit three magnificent castles: Chambord, Chenonceau, and Cheverny. The trip includes detailed guides explaining the history of these Renaissance palaces, their architecture, and stories of royal intrigue. The tour transports you from Paris’s bustling streets to the tranquil countryside, where you can wander through gardens and explore elaborate interiors. The reviews note it’s a good value, especially with the included visits and stories. It’s perfect for history and architecture buffs who want a comprehensive taste of French royalty without overextending their schedule.
Bottom line: For a well-balanced day of exploring French Renaissance castles, this tour combines rich history with beautiful scenery.
6. Versailles Full-Day Electric Bike Tour : Market, Picnic & Palace
Rated 5.0/5 from 194 reviews, this Versailles Electric Bike Tour offers a fresh way to explore the grounds. The e-bike makes covering the extensive Versailles estate easier and more enjoyable, especially for those wary of long walks or cycling. You’ll visit a lively market to gather picnic supplies, then enjoy your lunch by the Grand Canal. The tour takes you off the usual tourist paths through parks, forests, and quaint villages. The guide is praised for their knowledge and patience, making it suitable for all fitness levels. Many reviewers emphasize how the combination of activity, local food, and history makes for a memorable experience.
Bottom line: If you want a relaxed, active day that combines local flavors with Versailles’ grandeur, this bike tour is ideal.
7. Versailles Full-Day Tour with the Estate of Marie-Antoinette
Rated 5.0/5 from 145 reviews, this Versailles with Marie-Antoinette offers an immersive look at the Queen’s private domain. The 8.5-hour trip by train includes skip-the-line access to the palace, and visits to the Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s farm and village—areas often overlooked. The guide brings these spaces to life with stories about her life and the palace’s history. Visitors love the detailed tour and the chance to see Versailles beyond the main palace. It’s a great option for those interested in the personal side of royal life and want to avoid the crowds.
Bottom line: For a detailed, insider look at Marie Antoinette’s life and private spaces, this tour’s comprehensive approach is hard to beat.
8. From Paris: Small-Group Loire Valley Castles Full-Day Tour
With a perfect 4.8/5 rating, this small-group Loire Valley castles tour focuses on a boutique experience. Visiting Chenonceau, Chambord, and Amboise, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a more intimate look at these UNESCO-listed sites. The guide’s storytelling makes history come alive, and the small group size ensures personalized attention. The tour includes visits to the castles’ interiors and gardens, with enough time for photos and exploration. The small-group aspect means less time waiting and more time soaking in the sights, making it perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: If you’re after a personalized, less crowded experience of France’s famous castles, this tour delivers.
9. Versailles Full-Day Tour with the Estate of Marie-Antoinette
Rated 5.0/5 from 89 reviews, this private guided Versailles estate trip is perfect for those wanting a luxurious, customized experience. It includes skip-the-line admission and private transport, giving you extra flexibility. You’ll see the Hall of Mirrors, explore the gardens, and visit Marie Antoinette’s private estate and farm. The guide shares in-depth stories, making the experience feel exclusive and personal. This tour suits visitors who want to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed pace, with the added comfort of private transportation.
Bottom line: For an upscale, private experience of Versailles, this tour offers personalized attention and a deep dive into royal life.
10. Paris: Full-Day Cooking Class with 3-Course Lunch
A highlight for food lovers, this Paris cooking class combines culinary skills with a delicious meal. Over five hours, you’ll learn classic French techniques, shop at a local market, and prepare your own 3-course meal along with wine. The class is led by a convivial French chef, and reviews praise the hands-on experience and tasty results. It’s perfect for those wanting a practical, engaging way to enjoy French cuisine while enjoying the conviviality of a shared meal. The price reflects the quality and experience, making it excellent value for passionate foodies.
Bottom line: If you love cooking or want a memorable culinary experience, this full-day class offers both skills and a feast.
11. Full Day All-inclusive Tour in Champagne from Paris in a Minivan
Rated 5.0/5 from 85 reviews, this Champagne day trip combines comfort and exclusivity. Traveling in a luxury Mercedes minivan, you’ll visit small villages, vineyards, and a Champagne estate where a vintner explains the process. The tour includes tasting sessions of at least three champagnes and a three-course meal. The itinerary covers Verzenay and Reims, with a seamless experience that’s ideal for those who prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery. Reviewers note the professional guide and the tasting quality as highlights.
Bottom line: For a stress-free, luxury Champagne experience with excellent tastings and food, this all-inclusive tour hits the mark.
12. From Paris: Full-Day Mont Saint-Michel Guided Tour
Rated 4.4/5 from 439 reviews, this Mont Saint-Michel trip offers a scenic 14-hour journey. You’ll see Normandy’s landscape en route to the iconic island abbey, with guided visits to the medieval buildings and Gothic architecture. It’s perfect for history and architecture buffs who want a comprehensive day trip without the hassle of planning transport. The experience is mostly about the breathtaking scenery and the stories of invasions and wars that shaped the region.
Bottom line: If you want a full-day adventure to one of France’s most photographed sites, this guided trip offers comfort and insight.
13. Full-Day North Burgundy and Chablis Wine Tasting Tour from Paris
Rated 5.0/5 from 81 reviews, this North Burgundy & Chablis tour is ideal for wine aficionados. Traveling in a small group, you’ll visit renowned vineyards, taste white, red, and sparkling wines, and learn about terroir and winemaking traditions. The tour includes a wine-tasting lunch at a family-run winery, making it a true taste of France’s wine heritage. The guide’s expertise shines, and travelers love the personalized experience. It’s a good value at around $348, especially for those eager to explore France’s top wine regions.
Bottom line: For an in-depth, educational wine trip with excellent tastings, this tour is a must.
14. Paris: Full-Day Cooking Class, Market Tour and Lunch
Rated 4.9/5 from 100 reviews, this Cooking Class with Market Tour blends market shopping with hands-on cooking. Over six hours, you visit a local open air market, select fresh ingredients, and prepare traditional French dishes with a chef. The experience ends with enjoying your culinary creations paired with wine and cheese. It’s perfect for foodies wanting to learn authentic techniques and create a memorable meal. Reviewers appreciate the convivial atmosphere and the quality of the food.
Bottom line: For a practical, engaging way to learn French cooking and enjoy a delicious meal, this full-day class hits the spot.
15. From Paris: Versailles Full-Day Trip by Train
For a budget-friendly but full experience, this Versailles day trip offers a guided tour of the palace, gardens, and Marie Antoinette’s estate. The 9-hour itinerary includes a train ride, skip-the-line access, and guided exploration, making it a practical choice for travelers who want to see Versailles independently but with some expert guidance. Visitors praise the efficient schedule and the insider knowledge of the guides. It’s a solid option for those who want to maximize their time without splurging on private guides.
Bottom line: For an affordable, well-organized Versailles experience, this tour offers great value and flexibility.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, fitness level, and time. For a deep dive into history and WWII, the Normandy beaches or Mont Saint-Michel trips are excellent. If royalty and architecture call your name, Versailles or Loire Valley castles offer stunning sights and stories. For culinary enthusiasts, the cooking classes and wine tours provide hands-on experiences that leave you with new skills and flavors. Families might enjoy Parc Astérix, while art lovers should prioritize Monet and Van Gogh visits. Remember to book early, especially for popular tours like Versailles and Champagne, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Paris’s full-day tours open a window to France’s most iconic sights and hidden treasures. The options vary from historical battlefield tours to luxurious castle visits, and from family amusement parks to culinary adventures. Two standout choices are the Normandy D-Day landing beaches for history buffs and the Versailles estate for royal enthusiasts. Whether you crave learning, exploring, or just having fun, there’s a perfect day-trip in France waiting for you. Book early, plan your priorities, and enjoy every moment of your French adventure.