What you must know about the Navigo Card

If you're staying in Paris for a week or more, the Navigo card is one of the best travel hacks you can use.

For around 12€ daily, 32€ per week or 89€ per month, you get unlimited travel on all metros, RER trains, trams, and buses in all zones, including zones outside Paris like Versailles, Provins, Fontainebleau, and more.

If you already have a Navigo Card, then the transportation for these day trips will be free.

Photo: Ile-de-France Mobilités

Where to get your Navigo Card

You can buy the Navigo card at most metro and RER stations.

Bring a passport-sized photo (you can print one at photo booths in stations).

Ask for a Navigo Card at the counter

Once you have your Navigo Pass, here are 5 magical day trips you can do for free.

5 free day trips from Paris

1. Auvers-sur-Oise

Just 30 km northwest of Paris, this charming village is most famous as the final home of Vincent van Gogh. He created over 70 paintings in the last 70 days of his life here.

Must-See Attractions:

• Auberge Ravoux: Van Gogh's final residence. His tiny room is preserved and open to visitors.

• Église Notre-Dame d’Auvers: The church he famously painted.

• Van Gogh’s Tomb: In the village cemetery alongside his brother Theo.

• Stroll through wheat fields and landscapes that inspired Van Gogh.

How to Get There:

From Paris Gare du Nord, take a Transilien H to Valmondois, then change for a local train to Auvers-sur-Oise (only runs directly on weekends; weekdays require a change)

2. Château de Rambouillet

Once a hunting lodge for kings and later a presidential residence, this castle is nestled in the heart of the Rambouillet forest.

Must-See Attractions:

• The Château

• The Gardens

• The surrounding forest is perfect for cycling or long peaceful walks.

How to Get There:

From Paris Montparnasse, take a Transilien N train to Rambouillet (about 1h).

3. Provins

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Provins is a spectacularly preserved medieval town.

Must-See Attractions:

• Ramparts & Caesar’s Tower: Walk the defensive walls and climb the tower for views.

• Medieval Shows: Falconry and jousting events happen during weekends and festivals.

How to Get There:

From Paris Gare de l’Est, take a Transilien P train to Provins (1h25).

4. Château de Versailles

This is a must-see for anyone visiting France. Though the entrance to the château itself isn’t free for everybody, exploring the gardens, the estate of Trianon, and the park is free on most days.

Must-See Attractions:

• Gardens of Versailles

• The Château

• Canal Walks & Picnic Spots: Rent a bike or a boat, or simply walk

• around the Grand Canal.

How to Get There:

From Paris RER C direction Versailles-Rive Gauche (about 45min).

5. Château de Fontainebleau

Less crowded than Versailles but just as majestic, Fontainebleau was inhabited by 34 kings and two emperors. Surrounded by a vast forest, it’s ideal for both history lovers and nature seekers.

Must-See Attractions:

• The Château

• Gardens & Courtyards

• Forest of Fontainebleau: Excellent for hiking and bouldering (a favorite

• for rock climbers).

How to Get There:

From Paris Gare de Lyon, take a Transilien R train to Fontainebleau-Avon (40min), then a 20 min walk or local bus.