5 Easy Road Trips from Paris You’ll Love This Summer

Most people plan a trip to Paris and don’t even realize places like these are just a few hours away! Paris is beautiful, but once you get our of the city for a few days, you truly enjoy the beauty of France. We find roadtrips to be the best way to get around so you are on your own schedule and you can stop when you want to. This is especially helpful traveling with young kids. It’s much more cost efficient to travel by car too as with trains or flights with a large family can add up fast.

Here is a quick look at the 5 easiest roadtrips around France to take with your kids!

1. Colmar
2. Fontainebleau
3. Strasbourg
4. Annecy
5. Chamonix

For more details keep reading!

1. Colmar

Colmar feels like a real life fairytale with colorful half-timbered houses and canals that run through the town. It’s one of the most charming towns in the Alsace region. The pace here is slower compared to Paris and perfect for wandering and relaxing. The town is very small and easy to navigate with kids. I recommend getting here early in the day or later in the evening for fewer crowds.

When to visit:

All year! We visited in July as part of a road trip through France and into Austria. It was very crowded in the summer but so lively and our kids had so much fun watching the boats in the canals. Colmar is epecially magical during the Christmas market season. From late November through all of December, the entire town transforms into a winter wonderland.

What to do:

Stroll through the old town area, see the boats, and visit the little shops and local markets. It’s nice to just stroll around and not be on a strict schedule.

Distance from Paris:

About 6 hours by car. You could also take a train if this is your only destination

2. Fontainebleau

Fontainebleau is a less crowded alternative to Versailles with just as much history. It’s one of France’s most important royal residences, and former home to Napoleon. The grounds are beautiful and a perfect escape from the city.

When to visit:

Spring or summer is the best time to visit. The weather will be warm and you can take advantage of being outside.

What to do:

You can do a tour of the Chateau or just walk the grounds and gardens at your own pace. You can also spend time in the nearby forest for walking, biking or having a picnic. There are a few little cafes right near the Chateau that are perfect for having lunch outside.

Distance from Paris:

About 1 hour by car. It’s also very easy to take the train

3. Strasbourg

Strasbourg is a beautiful mix of French and German culture. It’s one of the most picturesque old towns in France and home to the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral. It feels like a mini-Paris with all the charm but less overwhelming. It’s good to get a taste of German culture too.

When to visit:

All year! We were here in summer and it was magical. There are so many good restaurants and it was easy to get around with kids. The Christmas market here is huge and one of the most popular in France. If you plan to go during that time of year hotels book up about a year in advance. If you plan on staying at a hotel be sure to contact the hotel ahead of time to let them know you will have a car. Parking can be tricky and typically hotels only have a few dedicated spots.

What to do:

My kids loved the carousel in the center of town and having gelato as we strolled through the canals. You can go inside the Strasbourg Cathedral and climb to the top for amazing views. You can also do a boat tour through the canals which kids love. There are so many good shops and restaurants through the town.

Distance from Paris:

About 5 hours by car. The train is an option here too

4. Annecy

Annecy is known as the “Venice of the Alps” with canals and colorful old town streets. The town is set on a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by mountains. It’s by far one of the most picturesque destinations in France and still one of our favorite places!

When to visit:

Summer is the best time to visit if you can. The days are long and there are so many activities to do outdoors. Spring and fall would be slightly cooler weather and less crowds. If staying in the summertime, be sure to book your hotel as early as you can in advance

What to do:

The town is located right on the lake so there are tons of outdoor activities kids of all ages will enjoy. You can rent bikes or paddle boats and enjoy a relaxing day on the lake. It’s easy to wander the streets and canals and enjoy all the little cafes.

Distance from Paris:

About 6 hours by car. You can take the train here too but there is no direct shot.

5. Chamonix

Chamonix is a breathtaking alpine destination at the base of Mont Blanc. The views are incredible! It’s still one of our favorite places in France.

When to visit:

Summer is best for hiking, walking around and enjoying the outdoors. Winter is also a popular time to visit if you are into snowboarding or skiing.

What to do:

Enjoy hiking, scenic walks, or take in the views just walking through the town. You can take the Aiguille du Midi cable car for breathtaking views. Or visit the Mer de Glace glacier via the Montenvers train.

Distance from Paris:

About 6 hours by car

Planning a Family Trip to Paris?

My Paris with Kids Guide includes everything you need to know about traveling to Paris with Kids including metro and stroller tips, restaurant recommendations and all out favorite things to do in the city. There is an entire section dedicated to trips beyond Paris!