istock-622198068

The prettiest villages for a getaway near Paris in May

undefined undefined 17 mai 2023 undefined 11h00

undefined undefined 30 avril 2025 undefined 14h31

The Editor


Thomery

Situated along the banks of the Seine, at the edge of the Fontainebleau forest, Thomery is sure to delight. Famous for its vineyards, particularly its renowned golden chasselas, this village transports you straight into the scene of a painting. From the Church of Saint-Amand to the Château de la Rivière, not to mention the King's baths, the greenhouses of the Salomon garden, the workshop of Rosa Bonheur in the 19th century, and the banks of the Seine that inspired many Impressionists, you'll never tire of this enchanting setting.

Thomery (77)
Accessible in 1 hour via the A6 motorway


Giverny

Probably the most famous, but trust me, it's worth the detour. Flower gardens, weeping willows, and ivy climbing on quaint stone houses... Of course, you can't miss Claude Monet's house, a little peaceful haven with rosy façades and green shutters. It's THE meeting point for all lovers of Impressionist painting. For an afternoon, you can admire the enchanting pond, flowers in a thousand colors, the ultra-zen Japanese bridge, and the water lilies straight out of a painting. 

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par VOYAGED by 9GAG (@voyaged)

Giverny (27)
Access by car is possible via the A13 motorway (1 hour)


Haute-Isle

In the Val-d’Oise department, this gem is sure to surprise you. Haute-Isle is a curiosity all on its own. Are you a fan of history and landscapes? This is the perfect spot for you! A troglodytic church, carved into a chalk cliff, will take you on a journey from Prehistoric times to the 19th century. At the heart of a protected natural site, this commune offers unparalleled panoramas!

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Cé Line (@cel.ink)

Haute-Isle (95)
Accessible by car (1h)


Barbizon

On the edge of the Fontainebleau forest, the "village of painters" welcomed many artists in the early 19th century. From Millet to Corot, and Monet to Renoir, Barbizon is a true wellspring of inspiration. With its bucolic paths and charming buildings straight out of a fairy tale, this little village is perfect for escaping the urban craziness of Paris. For an idyllic weekend, you can stroll through the lovely cobblestone streets and leisurely explore the various art galleries.

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par MmeJoie (@mme_joie_)

Barbizon (77)
Line 21 (Saint-Fargeau-Ponthierry - Gare de Fontainebleau-Avon)
Access by car possible (50 min)

Moret-sur-Loing

As the temperatures rise, we're desperately searching for a little cool spot. Moret-sur-Loing and its charming green surroundings offer us the perfect chance to soak up the sun and relax with a picnic by the water. Just a stone's throw from Paris, this true architectural gem provides us with a picture-postcard landscape!

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Stéphane Dri (@dalayrac)

Moret-sur-Loing (77)
TER GAMO Montargis
Accessible by car (1h)


Vétheuil

Less known than Giverny, yet the painter Claude Monet also spent a few years here with his wife. So let's hop on a train and get ready to step into an impressionist painting. This bucolic setting will transport us to the banks of the Seine, or let us take in some views on its hiking trails!

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par QORZ (@qorz)

Vétheuil (95)
Possible access by car (1h15)


Auvers-sur-Oise

Auvers-sur-Oise, a charming haven for art lovers in the Île-de-France region. This little village has always been a source of inspiration for painters. Vincent van Gogh, Camille Pissarro, Claude Monet, Charles-François Daubigny… All of them made a stop here. Stone cottages, ivy-covered walls, steep paths leading to wheat fields, forests, and the banks of the Oise... By escaping industrialization, Auvers-sur-Oise has practically remained the same since the 19th century.

Anvers-sur-Oise (95)
H Line OPOC Pontoise
Accessible by car (1h)


Gerberoy

A village with unmatched charm. Colorful half-timbered houses, lush pathways, and cobblestone streets: Gerberoy looks straight out of a postcard. In spring, the fresh green leaves and vibrant flowers fill the village with incomparable charm. So, with the lovely days smiling at us, it's the perfect time for a little weekend getaway!

Voir cette publication sur Instagram

Une publication partagée par Antoine LaGomme (@la_gomme)

Gerberoy (60)
From TER Paris Nord-Beauvais and bus line 612
Possible access by car (1h30)