While en route from Brussels to Paris, you can stop at some of the region’s most important historical sights. Remember the Battle of Waterloo from atop the Lion’s Mound, or watch boats get lifted nearly 250 feet at the ingenious Strepy Thieu boat lift. Or for something a little more opulent, tour the Château de Chantilly, a jaw-dropping water palace that happens to house one of the finest art collections in France.

• Eiffel Tower
• Notre-Dame
• Arc de Triomphe
• Louvre Museum
• Disneyland Paris
• Palace of Versailles
• Sainte-Chapelle
• Fondation Louis Vuitton
• Shakespeare and Company
• Palais Garnier
• Jardin du Luxembourg
• The Centre Pompidou
• Place des Vosges
• Montparnasse Tower
• Musée de l'Orangerie

Paris also has quite a story to tell. Its establishment dates back to around 250 BC when it became a Celtic settlement. During the glorious days of the Roman civilization, the city was initially known as Lutetia, whose name probably came from the Latin word “luta”,meaning “swamp” or “mud,” as Julius Caesar described the marsh along the banks of the Seine.

As the 12th century got underway, Paris emerged as a leading center for commerce, education, and culture in Europe. This was evident in the founding of the University of Paris and the construction of the Notre Dame Cathedral. But Paris wasn’t filled with just rainbows and sunshine. It also went through dark days, such as the Black Death and the Hundred Years’ War. It recovered by the late 1600s, shaping what this global capital is today.

Stay aware and informed

Traveling between cities in Europe is generally safe, but it is still always prudent to stay informed about current travel advisories and local news. In France in particular, strikes are pretty common, but often usually scheduled in advance. Keep the necessary travel insurance documents, as well as emergency contacts, secure and on hand to avoid difficulties during your trip.

Brussels to Paris by bus

If the high-speed train is too expensive for you, you can take the bus. The bus fare starts at around $25 (23 euros), way cheaper than the cost of the train ticket. But, the travel time is longer, taking about 3.5-4 hours. Be sure to check the bus operator’s timetable where you can find numerous departures throughout the day.

Brussels to Paris by flight

Boarding a flight to Paris from Brussels isn't as fast as it sounds. While the flight itself only takes about an hour, you'll spend at least an hour getting to and from the airport, 2 hours at the airport for check-in and security, plus usually an hour for deplaning and getting your luggage.

This brings the total travel time to around 4 hours---slower than the train! And the fare isn’t cheap. The price of a nonstop flight ticket is around $230 (211 euros). Skip this option.

Daytrip private car transfer from Brussels to Paris

The bus, train, and plane definitely won’t make stops along the way. So, if you want a more customized travel experience that will allow you to experience as much as possible, book a private car transfer with Daytrip. It's worth it just for the chance to visit the Chateau de Chantilly!

Not only is Daytrip door-to-door, meaning you don't even need to get to a station or airport, but you’ll love how your English-speaking driver will bring you safely to your destination and even provide insightful commentary about the places.

Indulge in Parisian cuisine

Otherwise, engage your taste buds in a food tour around Paris. The city is renowned for its culinary magic, evident in quaint coffee shops and Michelin-starred restaurants. The croissant is a cliché, so if you’re done tasting the bread, try other classic French dishes like escargot and coq au vin (chicken stewed in red wine). For dessert levels, head to a patisserie for some macarons.

Immerse yourself in world-class entertainment

Aside from those historical and culinary experiences, Paris is also opening its arms to tourists who want leisure and entertainment. The cruise along the Seine River is an opportunity for you to see many of the city’s famous sites from a unique perspective. For party animals, head to the city’s nightclubs and cabarets, such as the Moulin Rouge, Pigalle, The Latin Quarter, and Bastille.

Enroll in artistic and educational workshops

For those who want a more hands-on Parisian experience, enroll in workshops around town where you can learn a new craft or skill. There are perfume-making workshops and photography tours that will change the way you look at Paris. There are also lessons on drawing, painting, crafting luxury bags, creating a custom denim jacket, making jewelry, and more.