TRAVEL FROM PARIS: Deauville on the weekend
How to Get from Paris to Deauville – A Chic Coastal Getaway
We were overdue for a weekend escape—just the two of us. The kind of getaway where you pack light, roll down the car windows, and leave the city behind without needing to board a plane. I wanted the beach. He wanted something low-fuss. We both wanted to be somewhere beautiful. So we picked Deauville—a little under two hours from Paris, and just far enough to feel like another world.
The drive was dreamy: golden fields flickering past, French pop radio humming in the background, and that familiar excitement that builds as you head closer to the coast. Deauville greeted us with sunshine, salt in the air, and Belle Époque charm—like a set from a vintage French film. We parked the car, slipped on our sandals, and let the weekend begin.
It was all the things we needed: café breakfasts on bustling terraces, long walks along wide beaches, lazy ice cream moments, and a little window shopping for daydreams. We didn’t overplan—we just let the town unfold at its own rhythm.
Here’s how you can do the same if travelling from Paris.
How to Get to Deauville from Paris
The Fastest Way: Drive
We drove, and if you’re looking for speed and flexibility, it’s the best option. The journey takes about 2 hours via the A13, and it’s a scenic ride past rolling fields and tiny Norman towns. You’ll want to leave early to make the most of the day.
By Train: Paris to Deauville
If you prefer a train, it’s also an easy ride:
- Depart from Paris Saint-Lazare to Deauville-Trouville
- Travel time: around 2h15 to 2h30
- Prices: from €18 to €35 one-way, depending on how early you book (check on SNCF Connect or Trainline)
Trains run several times a day, especially on weekends and holidays, but be sure to book ahead in the summer as it gets busy.
Best Time to Visit Deauville
Deauville is most magical between May and September, when the weather is warm and the beach is buzzing. Expect sunshine, cool sea breezes, and crisp evenings. We visited in early summer—perfect for long terrace lunches and dipping toes in the (still brisk) water.
When we went in June, the water was surprisingly warm!
What Is Deauville Known For?
Deauville is one of the most iconic seaside towns in France, located on the Normandy coast, just about 2 hours from Paris. It’s famously known for:
- Elegant Belle Époque architecture – Grand villas and stylish promenades reflect its 19th-century resort-town glamour.
- The Deauville American Film Festival – Held annually in September, it’s one of Europe’s most prestigious cinema events, attracting Hollywood stars and French celebrities alike.
- Les Planches – The legendary wooden boardwalk along the beach, lined with colorful parasols and art-deco beach cabins marked with the names of famous actors.
- Luxury lifestyle – High-end shopping (think: Hermès, Chanel), fine dining, casinos, and horse racing.
- Equestrian culture – Home to world-class horse races, polo matches, and year-round equestrian events at the Deauville-La Touques Racecourse.
- Deauville Beach – Long, wide sandy shores ideal for summer swims, romantic walks, and family picnics.
- Weekend getaways from Paris – Deauville is often called the “21st arrondissement of Paris” due to its popularity with Parisians seeking seaside luxury just a short drive or train ride away.
What to Do in Deauville
- Hit the Beach: The beach is immense—wide, golden, and dotted with Deauville’s iconic parasols. Perfect for relaxing, swimming, or a walk along the Promenade des Planches.
- Stroll the Marina: Walk over to the docks to admire sleek yachts and fishing boats. A lovely way to wind down post-lunch.
- Explore the Town: With its Norman-style architecture and Belle Époque charm, the town is pure eye candy.
- Ride the Tourist Train: Cute and kitschy, the Petit Train de Deauville gives a sweet overview of the town (especially great for families).
- Shop: Designer lovers, get ready. You’ll find Hermès, Longchamp, and other high-end boutiques clustered in the town center.
- Go to the Market: The outdoor marché is full of local life. We picked up juicy olives and sausages with garlic, fig, and black pepper—seriously delicious.
- Watch the People: Especially fun on weekends, where the town transforms into a sort of Norman bachelorette headquarters. We counted 11 bridal parties—all treasure-hunting their way through town in wild costumes!
Where to Eat in Deauville
- Breakfast at Le Morny’s Café: We started the day with buttery croissants and Café Richard on the terrace—hello, people watching!
- Lunch at La Cantine: A friendly, delicious spot right in the center. The seafood was fresh and the vibe relaxed.
- Other Hot Tables: We spotted lively crowds at Le Drakkar and L’Institution—both popular and buzzy. Brasserie L’Odyssée also caught our eye for a future visit.
- Ice Cream at Martine Lambert: No trip is complete without a scoop from Martine Lambert. After lunch, we grabbed cones and strolled toward the beach. Bliss.
We really couldn’t find any good coffee spots – and that was really missing – no artisanal coffee shops, but there was a Ralphs Cafe that we will check out next time.
Fun for Families
Deauville is great with kids too! There’s:
- Mini-golf
- A carousel
- Pony rides
- And family-friendly beach clubs with lounge chairs and games
Swanky Stays
If you’re staying overnight, consider:
- Hôtel Barrière Le Normandy – Old-school glam with striped awnings and top-notch service
- Hôtel Barrière Le Royal – Luxury with sea views and a spa
- Boutique rentals and guesthouses also abound for quieter stays
Save This List: What to Do, Eat, and See in Deauville
How to Get There:
- Drive (2 hrs)
- Train from Paris St-Lazare to Deauville-Trouville (2h15+, ~€18-€35)
Best Time to Visit:
- May to September
Things to Do:
- Promenade des Planches (beach walk)
- Relax on the wide beach
- Petit Train de Deauville
- Walk the docks & see boats
- Outdoor Market (fruit, veggies, sausages!)
- Watch the bachelorette parties on weekends
- Designer shopping (Hermès, etc.)
- Mini-golf & pony rides for kids
Where to Eat:
- Le Morny’s Café – breakfast & people watching
- La Cantine – lunch
- Spotted: Le Drakkar, L’Institution, Brasserie L’Odyssée
- Martine Lambert – artisanal ice cream
Where to Stay:
- Hôtel Barrière Le Normandy
- Hôtel Barrière Le Royal
Whether you’re heading for the weekend or just a sun-soaked day trip, Deauville is the kind of place that mixes high-end glam with barefoot charm. Come for the beach, stay for the seafood… and maybe even crash a bridal party treasure hunt while you’re at it.
Have a lovely day wherever you are reading from 🙂
bisous, Yanique
@myparisianlife | myparisianlife.com