Paris is internationally known as the City of Lights, and for good reason. It is a beacon that influences the world through its rich history, art, and fashion. However, France is more than just Paris, which is why I’d suggest that everyone, including students, travel outside it while they are there. The rewards are rich for the adventurous. My list is just three places right outside the city that are easy and inexpensive via metro or by train.

Saint Denis

There are many worthwhile things to see in France that are just outside Paris. A short metro ride leads to the vibrant suburb of Saint-Denis, which lays to the north of the city. This suburb does have a small reputation for being a place to avoid for travelers. But if you follow a few basic travel precautions, such as not dressing too “touristy” or flashy, then you shouldn’t run into any issues.

First, on the list of cultural activities for your time outside of Paris is visiting the Basilica of Saint-Denis. The basilica was completed in 1144AD, and is widely considered to be the first gothic church. The most remarkable thing about this old church is that it is the royal necropolis, meaning it serves as the final resting place for most French monarchs and other royalty. Tickets to enter and explore this church and guided tours are relatively cheap. There is also a crypt that you may enter that has untouched areas and additional tombs for famous royalty.

Another notable thing about this Parisian suburb is the fact that it is also the home to the Stade de France, which is a huge stadium that hosts: concerts, football games, and other events. I was lucky enough to coincidently be in the city of Paris during the European Championship. Only problem with this was tickets to all upcoming matches had been sold-out for months prior to my arrival, they do hold many exhibition games. I would recommend anyone staying in France long term to embrace football and watch the games to meet and connect with Parians and other Europeans. The Stadium will also give you the chance to see some of your favorite performers live for a relatively lower cost than if they were to see them in the US. When I was in Paris the stadium held events for the likes of Beyoncé and Rihanna.

Versailles

A 30 minute train ride leads to the wealthy suburb of Versailles, which is named after the most extravagant and famous chateau in all of France. Versailles started as a relatively small hunting lodge for Louis Xlll in 1623, but was famously expanded by Louis XlV and was completed in 1710. Many French monarchs and royalty were born and died here. This palace is visited by people from all over the world so I would recommend for you to get here as early as possible so that you can avoid the lengthy line and get more time to see and experience the inside of this beautiful chateau and surrounding gardens. I would also recommend for you to spend the majority of your day here because on some special nights they have light and fountains shows in the enormous gardens.

Chartes

If you’re in Paris another place that is worth a day trip is Chartes. It has a small, commune feel and a thriving farmer’s market where fresh organic produce can be bought. The notable thing about this city is the Notre-Dame de Chartes, which is an old cathedral that is considered the one of the finest and best preserved examples of gothic architecture in France and all of Europe.

Even with a 2-3 hour guided tour of this church, you’ll barely scratch the surface of this church’s 1000-year history. My favorite part of visiting this city was learning the stories behind the stained glass windows. I never know that they contained theology of the bible, and the complexity of it all was awe-inspiring. Which is why this cathedral deserves a visit.