Exploring France: Our Team’s Favorite Weekend Getaways from Paris

When public holidays roll around in France, it’s not uncommon to see locals taking advantage of the time off by embarking on exciting weekend getaways. And in May, France has it’s fair share of holidays – 5 to be exact! With the arrival of warmer weather, these long weekends mark the beginning of summer and offer the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes just outside of Paris. Today, we’re thrilled to share our team’s favorite weekend destinations, handpicked by our passionate photographers & community manager. Get ready to discover hidden gems, soak up local culture, and capture stunning moments throughout France.

Annecy – Chosen by Janelle

The Venice of the Alps: Situated on the picturesque shores of Lake Annecy, this charming city exudes a fairytale-like atmosphere. With its quaint canals, medieval architecture, and stunning natural surroundings, Annecy is a photographer’s paradise. Stroll through the cobblestone streets, capture the vibrant colors reflected in the crystal-clear waters, and let the magic of this Alpine gem unfold before your lens.

Distance from Paris: Approximately 5 hours by car or 4 hours by train.

Top 3 Things to Do in Annecy:

1. Explore the Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Annecy’s Old Town, lined with colorful buildings, canals, and picturesque bridges.
2. Visit Château d’Annecy: Immerse yourself in history by exploring the medieval castle overlooking the town and enjoy panoramic views of Lake Annecy from its ramparts.
3. Rent a bike and cycle around the crystal-clear waters of Lake Annecy, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and capture the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.

Fontainebleau – Recommended by Amy

Where History Meets Nature: Step back in time with a visit to Fontainebleau, a town renowned for its magnificent château and sprawling forest. The Fontainebleau Forest offers endless opportunities for exploration, from its enchanting trails to its hidden nooks. Capture the grandeur of the château’s architecture, immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature, and feel the stories of French royalty echoing through the centuries.

Distance from Paris: Approximately 1 hour by car or 40 minutes by train.

Top 3 Things to Do in Fontainebleau:

1. Explore Fontainebleau Palace: Step into the past as you visit the magnificent Fontainebleau Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive architecture, stunning gardens, and rich history.
2. Discover the Fontainebleau Forest: Lace up your hiking boots and explore the vast Fontainebleau Forest, famous for its sandstone boulders, serene lakes, and enchanting woodland trails.
3. Capture the Charm of Barbizon: Visit the picturesque village of Barbizon, nestled on the edge of the forest, and capture its rustic charm, art galleries, and artistic heritage.

Champagne – Charlotte’s choice

Toast to the Vineyards: Raise a glass and venture into the Champagne region, where rolling vineyards and charming villages await. This destination promises a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and exquisite bubbles. From the vineyards of Épernay to the historic cellars of Reims, capture the essence of champagne-making and revel in the captivating landscapes that surround you.

Distance from Paris: Approximately 1 hour 45 mins by car or 1 hour by train.

Top 3 Things to Do in the Champagne region:

1. Champagne Cellar Tours: Explore the renowned champagne houses in Reims and Épernay, such as Moët & Chandon and Taittinger, and indulge in cellar tours and tastings.
2. Discover the Avenue de Champagne: Stroll along the Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, lined with prestigious champagne houses and capture the elegance of this renowned street.
3. Visit Hautvillers: Venture to the charming village of Hautvillers, where Dom Pérignon lived and perfected the art of champagne-making. Photograph the vineyards and charming streets of this historic place.

Etretat and Normandie – Favored by Aprille

Coastal Marvels: For breathtaking coastal vistas and raw natural beauty, head to Etretat and the enchanting region of Normandy. Marvel at the dramatic cliffs, witness the power of the crashing waves, and capture the striking rock formations that have inspired artists for centuries. With its charming coastal towns and historic landmarks, Normandy provides endless inspiration for your photography adventures.

Distance from Paris to Etretat: Approximately 3 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train.

Top 3 Things to Do in Etretat and Normandie:

1. Capture the Cliffs of Etretat: Witness the awe-inspiring cliffs of Etretat, particularly the iconic natural arches known as Porte d’Aval and Porte d’Amont, and capture their dramatic beauty during sunrise or sunset.
2. Explore Honfleur: Visit the picturesque town of Honfleur, famous for its colorful harbor, charming streets, and historic buildings. Capture the essence of its maritime heritage and artistic inspiration.
3. D-Day Beaches and Mont Saint-Michel: Take a day trip to the historic D-Day landing beaches and pay tribute to World War II history. Alternatively, head to the majestic Mont Saint-Michel and capture its stunning medieval architecture and tidal surroundings.

Strasbourg – Katrina’s fave

Experience the unique blend of French and German influences in the enchanting city of Strasbourg. Famous for its canals, half-timbered houses, and vibrant Christmas markets, Strasbourg is a visual feast year-round. Capture the city’s romantic ambiance, explore its picturesque neighborhoods, and savor the delectable culinary delights that make this destination truly special.

Distance from Paris: Approximately 4-5 hours by car or 2 hours by train.

Top 3 Things to Do in Strasbourg:

1. Explore Petite France: Discover the picturesque neighborhood of Petite France, with its half-timbered houses, canals, and charming flower-lined streets. Capture the fairytale-like ambiance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.
2. Visit Strasbourg Cathedral: Capture the stunning Gothic architecture and intricate details of Strasbourg Cathedral. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
3. Wander through La Petite France Market: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of La Petite France Market, where you can capture vibrant stalls, local produce, and traditional Alsatian specialties.

Saint-Malo and Château de Chambord – Jessica’s picks

Timeless Splendor: Transport yourself to another era in the fortified city of Saint-Malo and the regal Château de Chambord. Wander through the cobblestone streets of Saint-Malo, immersing yourself in its medieval charm and capturing the essence of this coastal gem. Then, travel further inland to the Loire Valley, where the majestic Château de Chambord awaits. Its elegant architecture and vast grounds make it a perfect subject for your lens.

Distance from Paris to Saint-Malo: Approximately 4 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train. Distance from Paris to Château de Chambord: Approximately 2 hours by car or 2.5 hours by train.

Top 3 Things to Do in Saint-Malo:

1. Walk the Ramparts: Take a leisurely stroll along the fortified walls of Saint-Malo and capture panoramic views of the coastline, the charming old town, and the picturesque harbor.
2. Visit the Saint-Malo Cathedral: Explore the Saint-Malo Cathedral, a striking architectural gem that showcases a mix of Gothic and Romanesque styles, and capture its intricate details.
3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine: Indulge in delicious seafood dishes, including fresh oysters and mussels, at one of the many waterfront restaurants in Saint-Malo.

Top 3 Things to Do at Château de Chambord:

1. Marvel at the Château’s Architecture: Be in awe of the Renaissance architecture of Château de Chambord, capture its intricate details, and wander through the stunning French gardens.
2. Explore the Grounds: Take a leisurely stroll through the vast grounds of the château, which span over 5,000 hectares, and photograph the surrounding woodlands and wildlife.
3. Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride: For a truly unique perspective, consider a hot air balloon ride over Château de Chambord and capture breathtaking aerial views of this architectural masterpiece.

These captivating destinations offer a wealth of experiences, natural beauty, and cultural treasures within a short distance from Paris. Whether you find yourself captivated by the canals of Annecy, the historical grandeur of Fontainebleau, the effervescence of Champagne, the coastal marvels of Etretat and Normandy, the timeless splendor of Saint-Malo and Château de Chambord, or the Alsatian charm of Strasbourg, each location promises to inspire photographers and create lasting memories. So, pack your camera gear, embark on an unforgettable journey, and capture the essence of France beyond the enchantment of Paris.