Paris offers an abundance of full-day tours that help you see beyond the city’s iconic landmarks. Whether it’s wandering through the romantic gardens of Monet, delving into history at the D-Day beaches, or sipping Champagne in the vineyards, there’s something for every type of traveler. We particularly love tours like the Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches for their historical significance, and the Champagne tasting trip for bubbly fans. These experiences combine education, emotion, and a good dose of French culture, making them well worth the time.
In this list, you’ll find a mix of history-focused excursions, like the Normandy beaches, art trips to Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise, and luxury castle visits such as the Loire Valley châteaux. For a taste of royalty, the Versailles tours and Marie Antoinette estate take you into the realm of kings and queens. For food lovers, there’s a full-day cooking class in Paris or a market-to-table experience. Whatever your interests, the options below are sure to inspire a memorable day outside of Paris.
1. From Paris: Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches Full-Day Tour
At number 1, this tour offers a profound encounter with WWII history. Covering around 12 hours, it takes you from Paris to the Normandy beaches, where you’ll visit Omaha Beach and see the American Cemetery with over 10,000 white crosses. Your guide will explain the events leading up to and during the invasion of June 6, 1944, making history tangible.
What makes this tour stand out is the detailed focus on military sites, with visits to Nazi bunkers and the Longues-sur-Mer battery. The itinerary also includes the Overlord Museum and Pointe du Hoc, giving you context through military maps and photos. Guests often comment on how moving it is to stand where soldiers fought and died. The full-day format and expert narration make this ideal for history enthusiasts or anyone wanting a deep understanding of this pivotal event.
Bottom Line: For those interested in WWII history, this tour offers an immersive, respectful look at the Normandy landings with expert guides and meaningful sites.
2. From Paris: Reims and Champagne Tasting Full-Day Tour
Number 2 is perfect for lovers of bubbles and French culture. This 11-hour trip combines a visit to Reims Cathedral, where French royalty were crowned, with tours of two Champagne houses, including tastings. It’s a delicious way to learn about the region’s history, Champagne production, and enjoy a refined lunch.
The tour includes guided visits to vineyards and cellars, plus a unique blind tasting in the vineyards. The 3-course lunch adds a gastronomic element, making this a well-rounded experience. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the chance to taste authentic Champagne directly from the producers.
Bottom Line: This tour is an excellent pick for wine aficionados who want to combine history, stunning scenery, and high-quality tastings in a single day.
3. Giverny Monet’s Garden & Auvers-sur-Oise with Van Gogh House Full Day From Paris
At number 3, this art-focused tour offers a intimate look into Impressionist masters Monet and Van Gogh. Visiting Monet’s home and watering lily pond in Giverny is a highlight, with admission included. The visit to Auvers-sur-Oise introduces Van Gogh’s last home and his grave, making it a must for art lovers.
This small-group tour (capped at 8 people) offers an in-depth experience, with anecdotes about Monet’s years in Giverny and Van Gogh’s final days. The guide’s stories help bring these painters’ lives to life, beyond just viewing the sites. Multiple reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the personal touch, making it feel like a private tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for art enthusiasts wanting a personal, detailed day exploring France’s most famous painters’ homes and inspirations.
4. From Paris: Full-Day Loire Valley Châteaux Tour
Number 4 takes you into the fairy tale world of the Loire Valley, visiting Château Chambord, Château Chenonceau, and Château Cheverny. This full-day trip covers the highlights of France’s Renaissance architecture, with plenty of stories about royal intrigues and historic figures.
The tour is well-paced, with enough time to admire the delicate arches of Chenonceau and the grandeur of Chambord. The tour’s value lies in the comprehensive nature—covering three castles with interesting insights into royal court life. It’s ideal for those who want a scenic escape and a taste of royal France.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for lovers of architecture and history, looking for a full day of castles, stories, and stunning views.
5. Versailles Full-Day Electric Bike Tour : Market, Picnic & Palace
Number 5 offers a fun, eco-friendly way to explore Versailles. Using electric bikes, you’ll glide past the crowd and enjoy the park and gardens at a relaxed pace. The tour includes shopping at Notre-Dame Market for picnic supplies, then relaxing by the Grand Canal with your purchased goodies.
Most reviews emphasize how easy the bikes are to ride and how the route through forests and parks makes the experience special. The focus on local markets and outdoor picnic sets this apart from typical palace visits. It’s suited for active travelers who want to combine leisure and sightseeing.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a less formal, more interactive day exploring Versailles with scenic rides and a picnic.
6. Versailles Full-Day Tour with the Estate of Marie-Antoinette
Number 6 digs deeper into Marie Antoinette’s life, visiting her private estate, farm, and Petit Trianon. The 8.5-hour trip includes skip-the-line entry to the palace, then emphasizes her personal retreat, which many visitors overlook.
Guides highlight the Queen’s life and passions, with visits to her hamlet and theatre. Reviewers note the guide’s knowledge about the royal family and the relaxed pace that allows time to absorb the surroundings. This tour suits history buffs wanting a richer context of Versailles beyond the main palace.
Bottom Line: Best for those interested in royalty’s personal lives and the more secluded corners of Versailles.
7. From Paris: Small-Group Loire Valley Castles Full-Day Tour
This small-group offers an intimate look at the Loire’s Renaissance castles, including Château Chenonceau and Château Amboise. With just 8 people, it’s perfect for a personalized experience.
Your guide will share stories of royal intrigue and architectural highlights. The flexibility to explore at your own pace makes it a favorite for both history and architecture lovers. The tour’s focus on the delicate arches of Chenonceau and the royal ambiance of Amboise make it memorable.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a small, relaxed group and detailed stories about the region’s most famous castles.
8. Versailles Domain Half or Full Day Private Guided Tour from Paris
Number 8 is a luxurious option—private, with skip-the-line access and a dedicated guide. Covering either half or full day, it allows the flexibility to see the palace, gardens, and Marie Antoinette’s estate.
Guests appreciate the personalized attention and the chance to tailor the itinerary. The guide’s storytelling brings to life the Hall of Mirrors and the Trianon palaces. The private format is ideal for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity and a stress-free experience.
Bottom Line: For a customizable, private experience at Versailles, this tour delivers in-depth access and personal attention.
9. Paris: Full-Day Cooking Class with 3-Course Lunch
Food lovers will enjoy this hands-on cooking class in the Latin Quarter. Over five hours, you’ll learn French techniques, shop at a local market, and prepare a three-course meal with wine and cheese included.
The class is highly rated for conviviality and authenticity. It’s perfect for those who want to gain new culinary skills and enjoy their creations afterward. The experience emphasizes local ingredients and culinary stories, making it both educational and delicious.
Bottom Line: Best suited for foodies eager to bring a taste of France home through hands-on cooking.
10. Full Day All-inclusive Tour in Champagne from Paris in a Minivan
Number 10 offers a comprehensive, stress-free way to explore Champagne country. Traveling by comfortable minivan, you visit vineyards, taste at champagne estates, and enjoy a three-course meal with wine.
Highlights include touring small champagne producers and learning about winemaking. The onboard breakfast and small group size make it both convenient and personal. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the seamless experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a fully organized, all-in-one Champagne adventure in a relaxed setting.
11. From Paris: Full-Day Mont Saint-Michel Guided Tour
Number 11 takes you across the Normandy landscape to Mont Saint-Michel, with its medieval abbey and striking island setting. The 14-hour day includes scenic drives and a guided visit to the abbey, with plenty of time to wander.
This tour is perfect if you want to see one of France’s most iconic landmarks without the hassle of planning transport. Reviewers mention the enjoyable drive and the engaging guide. It’s suited for travelers with a full day to spare for a truly unique site.
Bottom Line: A worthwhile choice for history and architecture fans wanting a hassle-free day trip.
12. Full-Day North Burgundy and Chablis Wine Tasting Tour from Paris
Number 12 is a wine lover’s dream. Traveling in a small, comfortable van, you explore Chablis and North Burgundy’s vineyards. The guide shares insights into French wine classifications and terroir, while you sample Chardonnay and other local varieties.
Highlights include visits to family-run wineries and a tasting lunch. Guests mention the personalized attention and the opportunity to meet winemakers firsthand, making this a standout experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an in-depth look at French wines, especially Chardonnay, in a relaxed small-group setting.
13. Paris: Full-Day Cooking Class, Market Tour and Lunch
This 6-hour culinary experience combines shopping at a local open air market with hands-on cooking. You’ll learn French techniques, prepare a three-course meal, and enjoy your culinary creations with wine.
Highly rated, this tour emphasizes local ingredients and culinary storytelling. It’s suited for foodies who want practical skills and a delicious meal, plus a taste of Parisian life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers eager to learn French cooking techniques and enjoy a relaxed, interactive day.
14. Versailles Palace & Marie-Antoinette’s Estate Full Day Private Tour from Paris
Number 14 is a luxury private experience, with tailored visits to the main palace, Marie Antoinette’s estate, and gardens. Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a gourmet lunch option.
This private tour offers full flexibility and detailed attention from your guide, making it perfect for couples or small groups seeking exclusivity. Reviewers mention the guide’s expertise and the smooth logistics.
Bottom Line: Best for those who prefer a personalized, in-depth exploration of Versailles away from crowds.
15. From Paris: Versailles Full-Day Trip by Train
Number 15 provides an affordable way to visit Versailles. Using regular train transport, you’ll walk through the State Apartments, explore the gardens, and visit Marie Antoinette’s estate. The guided tours enhance your understanding of royal life and garden design.
The itinerary balances guided visits with free time, making it ideal for travelers comfortable with independent planning but wanting expert insights. With positive reviews, it’s a popular budget choice.
Bottom Line: Great for budget-conscious travelers who want a comprehensive Versailles experience using public transport.
How to Choose Your Perfect Full-Day Tour in Paris
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and budget. Want a deep dive into Normandy WWII history? The Normandy D-Day Beaches is unmatched. Looking for wine? The Champagne tasting or Chablis wine tour offers excellent tastings with knowledgeable guides. For a more luxurious experience, private Versailles tours (link) deliver exclusivity.
Budget travelers may appreciate the Versailles by train or the full-day Loire castles. If you’re interested in art, the Giverny and Auvers tour (link) is a charming, small-group choice. Finally, for food lovers, Paris-based classes (link) are a delicious way to spend a day.
Final Thoughts
This list showcases the diversity of full-day tours available from Paris, from historical sites and royal palaces to art workshops and wine tastings. For a truly immersive experience, the Normandy D-Day Beaches and the Loire Valley castles are hard to beat. If gourmet experiences appeal, the Champagne trip and cooking classes in Paris offer delicious insights.
No matter your interest or budget, booking early ensures you’ll get the most out of these popular day trips. Whether you want a history, art, gourmet, or luxury experience, these tours make exploring France’s rich diversity manageable and enjoyable.
