Hiking Outside Paris: Footsteps of Van Gogh Tour

Paris is a beautiful, busy city great for shopping, eating, and exploring. Apart from the exciting hustle and bustle of the city I love and need a good nature view. That’s right, even through the excitement of traveling to a new city, I still prioritize a break in nature if I can. Taking a hike on your vacation is a great way to explore beyond the city and get that break. Whilst visiting Paris, France I took the Footsteps of Van Gogh hiking tour– it was phenomenal. Nature and art wrapped into one? I’ll take it!

On my recent trip to Paris, I went on a 6-hour hike through the countryside where I fed my need for nature and learned about Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh. We first traveled about 40 minutes to the northwestern suburb Pontoise. From there we hiked along the Oise river to Auvers-sur-Oise where Van Gogh would later move to and eventually pass. 

On our hike, I learned a great deal about the impressionist movement, the life of Van Gogh, and a bit about Pontoise from our amazing hike guide, Victor. This hike was definitely a highlight of my Paris trip, given the opportunity to see the beautiful landscapes and walk along a cozy village. I’m sure I know more about Van Gogh now than I do any painter!