Question 1

What makes Chateau de Fontainebleau different from other French castles?

Accepted Answer

Chateau de Fontainebleau offers a more authentic royal residence experience than Versailles, having served as home to French monarchs for eight centuries. During your 3-hour visit, you'll see the only remaining throne room in France, the magnificent Renaissance Ballroom, and Napoleon's apartments. Unlike other castles, Fontainebleau displays a range of decorative styles from Medieval to Empire, showing how the palace evolved through different royal dynasties from Francis I to Napoleon III.

Question 2

What are the highlights of the medieval town of Provins?

Accepted Answer

Provins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in France. During your 2.5-hour visit, explore the imposing ramparts surrounding the upper town, climb the 12th-century Caesar's Tower for panoramic views, and visit the underground passages (Les Souterrains) that once served as storage spaces and secret meeting places. Don't miss the 13th-century Tithe Barn and the romantic Provins Rose Garden showcasing the town's famous medicinal roses.

Question 3

Are there interesting seasonal events or shows in these destinations?

Accepted Answer

Both locations offer seasonal attractions worth timing your visit around. Fontainebleau hosts special exhibitions in the Napoleon Museum throughout the year. Provins features medieval shows from April to November, including falconry displays at the Eagles of the Ramparts and theatrical performances at the Roses Theater showcasing medieval combat and horsemanship. The Rose Festival in June and the Medieval Festival in June are particularly lively times to visit Provins.

Question 4

How far are these destinations from Paris?

Accepted Answer

Fontainebleau is approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) southeast of Paris, with a driving time of about 1 hour. Provins is located 90 kilometers (56 miles) southeast of Paris, about 1.5 hours by car. The distance between Fontainebleau and Provins is approximately 50 kilometers (31 miles), or about 45 minutes driving time. Your private Daytrip driver handles all transportation, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic countryside of the Île-de-France and Seine-et-Marne regions.

Question 5

What are the best local specialties to try during this day trip?

Accepted Answer

In Fontainebleau, try the town's eponymous dessert, Fontainebleau a light mousse-like cream cheese sweetened with honey or sugaror sample regional Brie de Meaux cheese. Provins is famous for its rose-based productsincluding rose honeyrose candyand rose tea at the Maison des Provinciales. Also try medieval-inspired treats like hypocras (spiced wine) and fouees (bread pockets filled with local ingredients) at restaurants in the historic center.

Question 6

What outdoor activities can I do in the Fontainebleau area?

Accepted Answer

If you're interested in nature, the Fontainebleau Forest surrounding the chateau offers 28,000 hectares of protected woodland with marked trails. It's world-famous for rock climbing on its unique sandstone boulders (a sport called bouldering). Your driver can arrange a brief forest stop before or after your palace visit. The formal palace gardens designed in part by Andre Le Nôtre also provide beautiful outdoor spaces to explore during your 3-hour visit.

Question 7

Is this day trip suitable for families with children?

Accepted Answer

This day trip works well for families, with engaging activities at both destinations. Fontainebleau offers dedicated children's audioguides and periodic treasure hunt activities. Provins' medieval atmosphere appeals to children, especially the falconry show and the opportunity to climb the ancient tower. The underground tunnels of Provins add an element of adventure. Both locations have open spaces for children to run around, making this day trip less confining than museum-focused excursions.

Question 8

How do day trips with Daytrip work?

Accepted Answer

Day trips offer travelers private round-trip transportation to popular sightseeing locations. One of our professional drivers will pick you up in a luxurious, climate-controlled car, take you to the site of interest, and wait for you while you explore before driving you back to your hotel.

Question 9

Will I have to wait around for the driver to return?

Accepted Answer

Your Daytrip driver will wait for you nearby for the duration of your exploration, meaning you’ll never have to wait for your return trip transportation to arrive. Your comfort and convenience are our top priorities, and we aim to close out your day trip with a return on your schedule.

Question 10

Can I customize the pickup and drop-off times?

Accepted Answer

Yes! You’re free to choose the pickup and drop-off times that work best for you. However, the time spent at the destination is fixed and cannot be changed.

Question 11

Are entrance tickets and tours included in the price?

Accepted Answer

The price of a day trip does not include any entrance tickets, guided tours, or meals you may partake in at your destination. The price covers round-trip transportation in a luxury vehicle with a professional driver who can provide local insights en route.

Question 12

How long will I have to explore?

Accepted Answer

Each sightseeing stop has a recommended duration that includes plenty of time to explore. However, it is possible to customize the time spent at each sightseeing stop at a later stage in the booking process to best fit your unique schedule.

Question 13

If my plans change, is the booking flexible?

Accepted Answer

Day trip bookings can be canceled up to 24 hours before your trip for a full refund, no strings attached. While the destination and stops are predetermined, it is possible to change your pick-up point, whether it is at your hotel or some other location within the city.

Question 14

Can I take a large group?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Day trips are fully customizable to suit the needs of any private group. From solo travelers to large families with children and even corporate groups, we are ready to create a bespoke itinerary that accommodates parties of all sizes. The price is dependent on the number of vehicles required to serve your group, and we also provide child seats.

Question 15

Will my driver speak English?

Accepted Answer

Your friendly, professional, local driver will speak English. Our drivers are happy to provide any local insight they can on the way to your destination and may be able to answer questions and provide tips for the best possible experience on your day trip.

Question 16

Can I request children’s car seats for the journey?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we provide car seats for children of all ages, which meet stringent safety standards and local legal requirements. You can even bring your own car seat. We also have handicapped-accessible vehicles available for a wide range of needs for our passengers. When booking your day trip, please specify the accommodations you will need.

Question 17

Can I pay securely online?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Daytrip offers flexible payment options. We accept Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Ali Pay. You also can pay securely online with any major credit card, such as Visa, Mastercard, or American Express.

Question 18

How do I book?

Accepted Answer

Booking your day trip is as easy as our one-way and return trips! On the landing page of the day trip you’d like to take, simply select the date, pick up time, and how many adults and children will be on the trip. On the second page, you’ll fill in personal details, including any special requests, disability accommodations, and children’s car seats you may need. We are flexible too! You can change your exact pick-up location (hotel address, etc) up to 24 hours before your day trip.

Paris to Fontainebleau and Provins: Private day trip

Private ride with a local driver

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