Destinations from Paris in Autumn

Autumn brings a special magic to train journeys in Europe. As the air turns crisp and the light softens, there is something calming about watching the countryside roll by outside the train window. Travelling by rail in this season feels more gentle, almost meditative. The trails of summer tourists thin out, the crowds lessen, and the picturesque views feel like they belong just to you. The charm of Europe in autumn feels natural and cozy, inviting slow travel and a closer connection to each place.

From Paris, there are three standout journeys perfect for this time of year. Each one offers something special: vineyards turning golden, snowy peaks rising in the distance, or morning mist drifting over rivers. Travelling to Beaune, Annecy, and Tours by train shows off the diversity of French landscapes and heritage, and each place offers a calm escape from the city. These trips are great for young travellers who want to experience a quieter, more local side of France by train. The train rides themselves are part of the adventure, with views that set the tone before even stepping off the platform. Experience France this autumn with these rail journeys that blend scenery, culture, and sustainable travel.

Beaune, Burgundy

Beaune - Michel PERES

Beaune is one of the main towns in Burgundy, a region known worldwide for its wine. The town has a long history going back to Roman times, and its old center feels well preserved without being frozen in time. The highlight is the Hospices de Beaune, a former charity hospital known for its colorful tiled roof and Gothic architecture. Beaune has quiet streets with old stone houses, large wine cellars under the ground, and tiny cafes where time moves slow. Surrounding the town are miles of vineyards in shades of gold and red during autumn. The air smells like wine, earth, and wood smoke this time of year, and the whole area feels peaceful and inspiring.

The train from Paris to Beaune takes 3 hours and 32 minutes. This is part of the fun. As the train leaves Paris, the buildings get smaller and farther apart. Soon the scenery is full of vineyards and fields that go on and on. The light softens as you travel south. The train arrives in the center of Beaune, so no need for extra transport. This makes it easy for travellers who want a smooth trip. The route itself feels like a preview of the best Beaune has to offer. There are no changes or complicated steps. Start in a busy capital and end in the heart of wine country.

Beaune offers a special kind of tourism focused on wine and earth. Many wine cellars offer tours and tastings where visitors can learn about wine making in Burgundy. These are not just about drinking but about understanding the land, the work, and the traditions that go into every bottle. The Hospices de Beaune hosts an annual wine auction, which is a major event in the wine world. Even outside this event, the town has cooking classes, vineyard walks, and bike routes through local villages. In autumn, guests can see wine being made and talk with local producers during the harvest season. This creates a strong sense of place and a deep connection to the land.

Annecy, French Alps

Annecy - SCStock

Annecy sits close to the Alps and is known for its clean, clear lake and old town center. The town has canals lined with pastel-colored buildings, earning it the nickname Venice of the Alps. Tall mountains rise around the lake, and in autumn some of the peaks are dusted with snow. The calm water reflects the sky and the trees turning shades of gold and red. The old town has narrow streets, bridges over the canals, and cozy shops and bakeries. It feels peaceful, and the view of the lake from almost anywhere in Annecy is breathtaking.

The journey from Paris to Annecy by train takes 3 hours and 45 minutes. The train leaves the flat lands near Paris and moves into more rugged terrain. Slowly but clearly, the scenery changes. First the plains, then low rolling hills, and eventually mountains in the distance. The closer the train gets to Annecy, the more peaks appear on the horizon. Take a seat near a window to watch the landscape shift from calm fields to mountain beauty. This route is direct and gives a sense of adventure before even arriving. For those new to the Alps, the approach itself is a highlight.

In Annecy, tourism is shaped by the natural beauty of the place. The lake is the centerpiece. Visitors can take boat rides, walk the easy path around the water, or rent bikes to explore farther. There are also nearby mountain trails for hiking. But what sets Annecy apart is how it feels. The clean air, the slow pace, and the mix of mountain and lake views make it a favorite for people who like active travel but still want comfort. In autumn, fewer tourists visit, making it easier to find space to relax. Small restaurants and food markets offer local cheese and other Alpine specialties. Everything revolves around nature here. Lakeside walks with hot drinks, quiet evenings with mountain views, and a town that feels like a friendly village.

Tours, Loire Valley

Tours - RomanBabakin

Tours is a lively city in the Loire Valley, an area known for its many castles and grand estates. The city has a modern energy mixed with a strong connection to its past. Its old town has half-timbered houses, and the streets feel lively with students and locals. The Loire River runs through the city, and in the morning the riverbanks are often misty, giving a soft, dreamy look. The city itself is a good base for exploring nearby chateaux, each one different, from grand royal castles to smaller noble homes. The area around Tours is green, with gentle hills and quiet riverside paths.

Getting to Tours from Paris by train is quick and easy. The trip takes just 1 hour and 14 minutes. This makes Tours a perfect short escape from the busy capital. The train leaves Paris and soon enters a more open, rural landscape. The Loire Valley starts to show its charm early in the trip. Passengers can enjoy the view of fields and rivers through large windows. Once in Tours, the train station is close to the city center, so it is simple to start exploring right away. No long travel times or changes needed, which is great for travelers who want to make the most of a short visit.

Tours offers a tourism experience centered on history and beauty. Visitors can explore the large number of chateaux nearby, many of which are open to the public. These castles are not just old buildings but places full of stories, art, gardens, and views. Some offer bicycle-friendly routes between them. Autumn gives the tree-lined castle drives a special glow. Tours also has food markets with regional products like goat cheese, apples, and honey. What is unique in Tours is the mix of urban life with large doses of nature and history. It feels like the perfect midpoint between city and countryside, making it relaxing but never dull.

Happy traivelling ☺️🚅🌿

26.10.2025