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The allure ofParisis undeniable.

An old mill house on the Seine in Vernon.
Staying here not only means beautiful digs swathed in history, but also unmatched privileges to explore the estate.
And in just 45 minutes you might reach Reims, the unofficial capital of theChampagne region.
And in addition to its thousands of vineyards, the destination is also regarded for its Renaissance castles.

The Hall of Mirrors at the Palace of Versailles.
The result: a beautifully decorated, period-appropriate hotel without all the pretense and pomposity.
While it may be far from many of the areas most popular spots, its well worth the drive.
Rouen
In about an hour and a half from Saint-Lazare youll reach Rouen, the capital ofNormandy.

A suite at the Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle.
Plus, its a better-positioned launchpad to the regions many vineyards.
Here, check out our guide to thebest hotels in London.
Bruges, Belgium
Looking to make the most of your Europe trip orEurail Passwith more country hopping?

Reims Cathedral at twilight.
Belgium is just a stones throw away.
But lets talk logistics and get technical for a moment (hang with us).
For those unfamiliar, cognac is essentially a brandy thats specifically made in its namesake enclave.

Monet’s gardens at Giverny.

The St. Georges district of old Lyon.

The Château de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley.

Inside the Hotel Château du Grand Lucé.

The Gros Horloge of Rouen.

The historic town of Colmar.

London at sunrise.

The Rozenhoedkaai Canal in the medieval old town of Bruges.
Dawn at the Château de Chantilly.
The Château de Fontainebleau in spring.
The Charente river at Cognac.