The Chateau de Chantilly is another symbol of French opulence and turmoil. The original chateau from the 1500s did not survive the French Revolution, however, it was rebuilt in the 19th century. It is almost entirely surrounded by water with moat-like ponds and canals with small paths between them.

As you arrive in Paris, your Daytrip driver will get you directly to your new accommodation and even help bring up your luggage. The perfect ending to a long day of travel!

From the 16th to 19th century, the French Empire played a major role in the transatlantic slave trade and colonization of the Caribbean, North America, Africa, and the Indian Ocean. As a result, many dialects of the French language can be heard throughout the world and Paris is one of the most ethnically diverse cities in Europe.

During the 19th century, under Napoleon's rule, Paris underwent significant urban planning development, which produced the wide boulevards, public squares, and landmarks we love today, like the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde. The city continued to be a center of innovation and intellectualism throughout the 20th century, surviving two World Wars and undergoing various social and political transformations.

Why we love Paris

Millions flock to Paris for its world-class museums, iconic sites, and vibrant cultural scene. Paris has innumerable theaters, music venues, and art galleries at every turn. The Louvre Museum, housed in the former royal palace, is one of the world's largest art museums. There is also the Notre Dame Cathedral, a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture (although it is currently under restoration following a devastating fire in 2019).

Another major draw is the Eiffel Tower, a globally recognized symbol of France. It was built for the 1889 World's Fair, and at first received a lot of criticism for its unique shape. However, now the views of the city from its observation decks attract millions of visitors annually.

Come for the romance and language immersion, or just come for the food! No matter your reason for visiting Paris, you will surely have a trip of a lifetime.

Plan out important parts of your schedule in advance, but also leave some flexibility for spontaneous discoveries. If you find your dream museum is already booked, do not fear, with Paris’ dozens of exhibit spaces, you’ll surely find another one to see- or another reason to return to Paris!

Check now when the museums in Paris are free

Many museums in Paris offer free admission on the first Sunday of each month or on specific days throughout the year. Check the museum's website in advance and plan your visit accordingly. But be aware that on free museum days, the lines are especially long, so plan an early departure from your hotel! Also look for discounted tickets based on student status, disability, or being of retirement age.

Check your SIM card policy before leaving Bruges

If you bought a SIM card for data and calling when you arrived in Europe, check if it can be used in the whole EU. Most SIM cards from the EU are roaming-free within EU countries (like Belgium and France), but may have to be activated within the internet provider’s app. Odds are the card you bought in Bruges will work in Paris as well. Another option is to stop by the SIM card provider while still in Bruges and have the salesperson walk you through the activation.

Stretch your legs at Kortrijk, the car-free town on the Belgian-French border, and visit several of its UNESCO-protected sites. A short distance down the road, the folks at the Musee Somme 1916 (Somme Museum 1916) will take you on a tour through the lives of soldiers and civilians involved in trench warfare in the French countryside during WWI.

Daytrip can get you door-to-door in about 3 hours and 10 minutes without stops, and your driver will even help with your luggage. All vehicles are insured and drivers speak English, as well as French. And if you need handicapped-accessible vans or car seats for children just ask!

From Bruges to Paris via train

Traveling by train from Bruges to Paris is convenient and efficient thanks to high-speed rail. The primary rail operator on this route is Thalys, offering trains that take approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Paris from Bruges. You will, however, have to transfer in Brussels for this route.

Trains depart from Bruges Central Station and arrive at Paris Nord Station, and from there you can easily access central Paris and its extensive public transportation network. This high-speed train journey starts at 26 EUR and offers onboard amenities and scenic views of the French countryside.

From Bruges to Paris via bus

Traveling from Bruges to Paris by bus is among the cheaper ways to travel. The journey typically takes around 4 to 5 hours and tickets are 14 to 30 EUR. Buses depart from Bruges at various times throughout the day, so you can pick the one that fits your schedule. The bus will take you to central drop-off points in Paris, such as Bercy-Seine or Porte Maillot. From there, you can easily access public transportation for the final leg of your journey to your accommodation.

From Bruges to Paris via plane

There are no direct flights from Bruges to Paris. Traveling by plane involves first traveling to Brussels, and then flying from Brussels Airport (BRU). Brussels Airline is the only one offering direct flights, which land at Paris’ Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG). Upon arrival in Paris, you can easily access the city center via airport shuttle buses, trains, or taxis. However, flying is not the fastest or most convenient way to get to Paris, so we recommend using ground transportation.

Louvre Museum (Musée du Louvre)

One of the world's largest and most famous museums, the Louvre is a must-visit for art lovers. It houses an extensive collection of art and artifacts, including the iconic Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory of Samothrace. For this museum especially, book your time slot early!

Musée d'Orsay

Located in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station, the Musée d'Orsay has an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces by artists like Monet, Van Gogh, Renoir, and Degas.

Centre Pompidou (Musée National d'Art Moderne)

A leading center for modern and contemporary art, the Centre Pompidou houses the National Museum of Modern Art. Its collection features works by artists such as Picasso, Matisse, Duchamp, and Warhol.

Experience Paris by night

Find out why it’s called the City of Lights! Paris has a magical ambiance at night with its illuminated monuments and vibrant nightlife. Take an evening cruise on the Seine River or enjoy dinner and cocktails at a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views. Don’t forget that the Eiffel Tower sparkles every hour on the hour from sunset until midnight!

Eat your way through Paris

Any trip to France is going to center on their amazing cuisine. The French highly value meal time and it is not unusual to have several courses for each meal. You will also notice that many retail stores and offices are entirely closed from 12:00-2:00 PM so that everyone can enjoy their meal slowly.

The French are also vehemently against snacking in between meals. You will find many restaurants won’t serve meals outside of mealtime, so from 3:00-6:00 PM you may only have the option to have tea. In addition to being passionate about their food, you’ll find the French rarely make deviations from their tried-and-true recipes. Do not expect restaurants to make major changes or substitutions to their meals.

Start your day off with the classic croissant and espresso combo. Lunch can be Coq au Vin (chicken, wine, and mushroom stew) with an Escargots appetizer. For dinner, Steak Frites (steak and fries) paired with a local red wine cannot be beaten. And for dessert, try macarons, crepes, or a souffle!

If the weather is especially nice, pick up some fresh bread, cheese, wine, and other French delicacies from local markets and enjoy a classic charcuterie picnic in one of Paris' parks. It's a delightful way to sample Paris’ best foods while taking in the romantic atmosphere.