One hour away by train from Paris Saint Lazare station is Chartres, known primarily for the impressive Cathedral of Notre Dame, which is visible from the moment you exit the railway station. However there is much more to explore here, especially when wandering around the Old Quarter or visiting one of the many excellent galleries and museums.

Alternatively Versailles, famed through the treaty signed here after the First World War, is easily reached by RER line C5 in just thirty minutes. Home to the magnificent Palace Gardens of Versailles it is impossible to fully appreciate everything in one day alone so try to set priorities.