Cities 2 hours from Paris: our selection for a city trip in Eastern France

Reims: the city of the coronation at the gateway to Paris

Less than 2 hours by car from Paris, the city of Reims is the ideal stopover for exploring the Champagne region! Nicknamed the "Holy City", Reims now boasts a rich medieval heritage and Art Deco architecture. The must-see? Notre-Dame Cathedral, a veritable jewel of Gothic architecture. You'll be amazed as you stroll through the city centre and admire its UNESCO World Heritage monuments!

To immerse yourself in the sparkling world of Reims, take a tour of the heart of the Champagne region! On the programme: discover the Montagne de Reims park, stroll along the vineyards and visit a Champagne House. And don't forget the tasting*! Between two walks, you'll want to take a break for lunch. And what better way to do that than to sit down at a table in a restaurant that combines prestige with traditional flavours? It's the perfect way to (re)discover the pink biscuits of Reims in a whole new light!

Épernay: a city trip to the capital of Champagne

Fancy a sparkling weekend away? Always less than 2 hours by car or train from Paris, Épernay is the city not to be missed in the Champagne region. With its vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, the champagne capital is a delight for lovers of fine bubbles. For a short break in Épernay, swap the Champs Élysées of Paris for the Avenue de Champagne made in the Grand Est!

After a stroll through the town centre, venture into the heart of the Champagne vineyards at Épernay. In a classic car, drive through the tangy panoramas of the Marne Valley or the Côte des Blancs. The highlight? A champagne tasting* in the middle of the vineyards, with a sunset supplement if you please! To round off the day in style, opt for a spa session in an exceptional hotel. It's the perfect way to treat yourself to a weekend in Champagne!

Troyes: a stay in the medieval city made in Grand Est

Troyes, the capital of the Aube region, is just 2 hours by car from Paris and only 1? hours by train. With its timber-framed houses, monumental churches and cathedrals, Troyes is certainly one of the most beautiful medieval cities in France. It's also renowned for its factory outlets with unbeatable prices. The ideal city for a weekend of culture and shopping near Paris!

The best way to discover Troyes and its historic heritage is to lose yourself in the town centre. Let yourself be guided through the heart of the church of Sainte Madeleine, one of the town's most emblematic monuments. Troyes is recognised as one of France's leading centres for stained glass, so a stroll through the town is also a great way to see the stained glass windows of its cathedral, some of which date back to the Middle Ages. A trip back in time not to be missed!

Nancy: a weekend in the city at the gates of gold

A city at the gateway to gold (and Paris), Nancy is just 1? hours by train from the capital. With its Art Nouveau heritage and famous Place Stanislas, the city lends itself perfectly to a getaway between museums, parks and idleness. One of the key cities not to be missed on a weekend near Paris!

To get the most out of your visit to Nancy, nothing beats a guided tour of the old town. Accompanied by a guide, stroll through the old town district and Place Stanislas. With the addition of historical anecdotes, of course! If you want to take a break from nature with your family or friends, head for the Parc de la Pépinière. In the heart of Nancy, its 21 hectares and rose garden are a veritable haven of greenery. An afternoon of nature and heritage!

It's a well-known fact that sightseeing gives you an appetite. So, to remedy that, what better way than to indulge in a gastronomic tour of the city of golden gates? It's a great way to combine cultural discoveries with culinary delights! Along the way, you'll meet passionate craftsmen who are keen to pass on their love of their region... and the taste of their specialities! From bergamots to Nancy macaroons, it's sure to be a tasty experience!

Metz: a holiday in the City of Light near Paris

For this next destination, head for the city of Metz. With its rich and infinitely varied cultural heritage, Metz has no shortage of charm. From the Musée de la Cour d'Or to Metz Cathedral, discover the must-sees in the capital of Moselle!

The ideal place to start? A trip to the Centre Pompidou-Metz. The museum is a sister organisation to the Centre Pompidou in Paris, and offers a glimpse into the heart of contemporary art. To introduce your little round heads to painting, sign them up for a creative workshop dedicated to budding Picassos. Something for all the family!

If you want to (re)discover Metz in an unusual way, take a guided tour of the city centre... with music! To the rhythm of flute and song, discover the history of the Esplanade de Metz from a musical perspective. C, D, E: you'll be surprised! If you want to discover Metz in the fresh air, take a 100% nature tour as close to the city as possible. In the heart of the Seille Park or along the Moselle, stroll at your own pace and let yourself relax for a while. The ideal way to round off your walk? An open-air picnic! You're guaranteed to have a great time!

Strasbourg: our activities in the European capital

Strasbourg is both Europe's and Alsace's capital, less than 2 hours by train from Paris! With its half-timbered houses and picturesque canals, the city charms young and old alike. It's the perfect destination for a weekend away from Paris!

Strasbourg, a city on the banks of the Rhine, embodies the bucolic charm of Alsace. What better way to discover the old town thanon board a bateau-mouche? From Notre-Dame Cathedral to the Petite France district, the city will pass before your eyes... and you won't be disappointed! Strasbourg is also the ideal base for discovering Alsace: from the European capital, set off to conquer the castles, villages and landscapes of Alsace and the Vosges.

For a sportier weekend, skip the bus and get on your bike. With its cycle routes and cycle paths, Strasbourg is the perfect place for a wind-in-your-hair getaway!

Fancy ending the day on a gastronomic note? Opt for a beer-tasting workshop! Accompanied by a beer expert, discover the sparkling world of Alsatian nectar and learn about local know-how. It's a great way to spend time with family, friends or just the two of you!

* Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.