Sometimes, the best parts of a destination lie just beyond its borders. Whether you’re staying in a global capital or a beachside hub, adding a day trip to your itinerary can reveal lesser-known sights, cultural gems, and a deeper connection to the region. Here are some of the best day trips you can take from popular tourist cities around the world—no overnight stay required.
- From Paris: Château de Versailles
Just an hour by train, the Palace of Versailles is a masterpiece of French opulence. Explore the Hall of Mirrors, manicured gardens, and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet.
- Book skip-the-line tickets through GetYourGuide or Tiqets
- From Tokyo: Nikko
Nikko offers a peaceful escape from Tokyo’s neon energy. It’s home to ornate temples, waterfalls, and the UNESCO-listed Toshogu Shrine.
- Take the Tobu Railway for the fastest and most economical route
- Consider buying a Nikko Pass for discounts on transport and entry fees
- From Rome: Orvieto
This hilltop town in Umbria is famous for its cathedral, underground tunnels, and slow food. It’s a perfect blend of medieval charm and laid-back countryside.
- Take a Trenitalia regional train (approx. 1.5 hours)
- Funicular and shuttle buses connect you from the station to the historic center
- From Bangkok: Ayutthaya
Once the capital of Siam, Ayutthaya’s temple ruins are awe-inspiring. The city is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and easily accessible by train or boat.
- Visit by local train or join a guided boat tour through the Chao Phraya River
- Entry fees are minimal, and bike rentals make exploring the ruins easy
- From Barcelona: Montserrat
Montserrat offers hiking trails, breathtaking views, and a Benedictine monastery nestled in the mountains.
- Accessible by train from Plaça Espanya and then a rack railway or cable car
- Combo tickets can be purchased via FGC Barcelona
- From New York City: Cold Spring or Beacon
A Metro-North train ride up the Hudson River reveals charming towns, art museums, and nature trails.
- Explore Dia Beacon or hike Breakneck Ridge
- Pack a picnic and enjoy river views
- From London: Brighton
A classic seaside escape, Brighton is known for its pebble beach, independent shops, and vibrant arts scene.
- Trains from London Victoria or London Bridge take about an hour
- Don’t miss the Royal Pavilion and the Lanes
- From Lisbon: Sintra
With palaces, castles, and lush forested hills, Sintra feels like a fairytale just 40 minutes from Lisbon.
- Trains run from Rossio Station regularly
- Visit Palácio da Pena and Quinta da Regaleira
- From Istanbul: Princes’ Islands
Escape the hustle with a ferry ride to the Princes’ Islands, where no cars are allowed and old mansions line quiet streets.
- Rent a bike or simply stroll the shoreline
- From Mexico City: Teotihuacan
Explore the ancient pyramids of the Sun and Moon in one of the most impressive Mesoamerican archaeological sites in the world.
- Reachable via bus from Terminal Norte or book a sunrise balloon tour through Viator or GetYourGuide
Smart Tip: While public transportation often gets you to these spots cheaply, some platforms offer additional savings when you earn cashback with a Uber gift card or get rewards with a Airbnb gift card—perfect for day tours or accommodations if your trip extends overnight. You can find these and other travel savings options through Fluz.
Final Thoughts
Adding a day trip to your itinerary offers a fresh perspective and a deeper sense of place. Whether you’re seeking nature, history, or small-town charm, stepping beyond the city limits can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.
