The gardens of Versailles span an impressive 1,976-acres (800-hectares). And while most explore the sprawling grounds on foot, did you know you can pedal your way to this historic site via a full-day bike tour from Paris? You'll discover garden trails and tree-lined paths behind the palace, and reach parts of the grounds that visitors on foot rarely see, including Marie Antoinette's country-style hamlet, the Petit Trianon, and the Grand Trianon.

Enjoy an intimate historical look at the D-Day landings on a full-day trip to the beaches of Normandy from Paris. Visit Omaha Beach, the Operation Overlord Museum, Pointe du Hoc, as well as the American Cemetery home to 10,000 white crosses. See period-era military maps, plans, and photos, while listening to inspiring stories about June 6, 1944. Also, don't forget to sample some of Normandy’s famous cider before returning to Paris.

Here, you can marvel at the Loire Valley's opulent châteaux and taste its famous locally-made wine and be back in Paris all before bedtime. First head to Château de Chambord—the inspiration for Disney's Beauty and the Beast. Then explore the town of Blois, where you can easily spend two hours wandering around. Finish the day with a visit to the elegant Château de Chenonceau and take a tour through its intricately carved stone walls, rich hanging tapestries, and intimate chapel.

Head to the coast of Normandy to visit Mont-Saint-Michel on a day tour from Paris. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site independently, with an audio guide, or dig deeper with an informative experienced guide. Make sure to build in some extra time to wander the hilly streets.

Check off two of France's most stunning chateaus in one day. See the splendor and gardens that inspired Louis XIV to build Versailles at 17th-century Vaux-le-Vicomte and then follow in the footsteps of seven centuries of French royalty at sprawling Fontainebleau.

Plan a day trip to the magical Disneyland Paris—just 35 minutes away from the center of Paris. Different ticket options allow you to make the most of your day and provide unlimited access to one or both parks. Disneyland Park has the fairy-tale magic and immersive lands of wonder, while the Walt Disney Studios park is where the worlds of Disney, Pixar, and Marvel bring the enchantment of movies to life.

Discover grand spires and medieval houses along the Eure River with a trip to Chartres from Paris that can be completed in about a half day. The Chartres Cathedral has been a pilgrimage since the 12th century, and the surrounding old city, is worth exploring at a leisurely pace.