Ile de France: The Complete Guide to the Region Surrounding Paris

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Ile de France: The Complete Guide to the Region Surrounding Paris
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in short
Ile-de-France is the region that surrounds Paris, and most tourists only know two sites from it – and miss everything else.
  • Not just Versailles and Disneyland: The district has lesser-known castles such as Chantilly, where whipped cream was invented, and Vaux le Vicomte, which was the inspiration for Versailles.
  • Not just castles: Chevreuse Valley for nature, and historic towns like Senlis and Provins.
  • Distance: All sites are within an hour's drive of Paris, and some within half an hour.
  • How to get there: Flight to Paris and from there a rental car or train. For castle tours, a car is much more convenient.
  • Airports: Charles de Gaulle (CDG) is central, Orly is closer to the center, and Beauvais for low-cost flights – cheaper but much further away.
  • Also on the page: Places to stay, practical tourist information, and links to districts you can continue to.

Let's start with an important statement: Ile de France is not just the Palace of Versailles and Disneyland.

Many tourists miss out on this wonderful region due to lack of knowledge and it's a shame, because within an hour's drive from Paris you will find a wealth of attractions that you shouldn't miss. Want an example? How about magical castles, like Chantilly Castle, where whipped cream was invented, or Vaux le Vicomte, which inspired the Palace of Versailles?

In addition to magical palaces and castles, you can find in the district Ile de France Also charming nature in the Chevreuse Valley and historic towns such as Senlis and Provins.

In short, there is no need to travel far to discover magical worlds. All you need is a car and a half-hour drive from Paris in any direction you want. Enjoyment is guaranteed!


Flights to Ile de France (Paris)

The easiest way to get to Ile de France is to fly to Paris and from there take a car or train. Here is all the information about the main airports:

Charles de Gaulle Airport
Charles de Gaulle (CDG)
The main and largest airport in Paris. Everything you wanted to know about getting to the city from it.

Orly Airport
Orly Airport
The old and beloved airport, closer to the city center.

Buba Airport
Beauvais Airport
The airport for low-cost flights (mainly Ryanair). Further away, but cheaper.


Important tourist information

🌦️ Weather

Detailed forecast, clothing recommendations and what to do in every season of the year in Ile-de-France.

🚗 Car rental

The most recommended and convenient way to travel among the magical castles and towns of the province.

🚆 Trains and transportation

All information about the excellent rail network connecting the Paris To the surrounding main towns.


Attractions and places to stay in Ile de France

🏰 Castles and attractions

Palace of Versailles
Palace of Versailles
The complete guide and tips for a perfect visit to the famous palace of Louis XIV.

Disneyland Paris
Mom's tips that will make your visit to the park magical (and save you lines).

Wo La Viscount
Wo La Viscount
The palace that inspired Versailles. A must for history and architecture lovers.

Chantilly Castle
Chantilly Castle
“Cream Castle” – a spectacular art museum, beautiful gardens and royal stables.

Chateau de la Motte-Tilli
Chateau de la Motte-Tilli
An intimate and magical palace worth discovering away from the crowds.

🛌 Towns and hotels

Saint Germain en La
Saint Germain en La
A lively town half an hour from Paris. Excellent base with restaurants and cafes.

Vau de Sernay
Vau de Sernay
An ancient monastery converted into a spectacular boutique hotel in the heart of the nature of the Shebarez Valley.

The town of Senlis
The town of Senlis
A charming medieval town that is suitable as a base for trips to the north of the district.

Fontainebleau
Fontainebleau
A great base to discover the south of the province, including the famous castle and the artisan village.

Disneyland Hotels
Disneyland Hotels
It is recommended to stay overnight in the park area to enjoy early entry and make the most of the experience.


What other regions can be reached from Ile-de-France?

Burgundy
Burgundy
A region famous for its fine wines, rich gastronomy, and picturesque villages.

Normandy
Normandy
Historic landing beaches, impressive cliffs, Camembert cheese and cider.

Loire valley
Loire valley
The most famous castle country in France with rural landscapes and fine wine.

All articles about Ile de France

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