4 church Visits

4 church Visits Chartres, Eure-et-Loir You can reach the town of Chartres, Center-Val de Loire, from Paris Montparnasse in one hour (make sure you take the fast service). Chartres Gothic UNESCO listed cathedral is one of the largest in France and dates to the 12th century with magnificent 13th century stained glass windows. From April to October the facade of the Cathedral is part of the city-wide Son et Lumiere event. There’s also a pretty historic centre in the city with a stained glass museum and lots of excellent restaurants. More on Chartres: Chartres Cathedral What to see and do in Chartres

Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy It's a long day trip, but this place is so extraordinary, it's worth it. It's certainly easier (and often cheaper) to take a bus tour from Paris but you can take the train to Rennes and then a bus. The extraordinary abbey at the very top of this fairy-tale island is well worth the effort. Wander the wiggly, winding roads full of boutiques and restaurants, it's touristy for sure but it really is special. More: How to spend a day trip at Mont Saint-Michel