france tour itinerary

The Ultimate 10 Day France Itinerary

By Author Katie

Posted on Last updated: January 30, 2024

This 10 Day France Itinerary shares the best places to visit in France in 10 days, so you can see everything the country has to offer.

Embarking on a journey to the land of croissants, vineyards, and iconic landmarks. Bienvenue à la France! There is so much to see and experience in the country; there are so many reasons to visit France .

Planning the perfect 10-day France itinerary can be overwhelming so we have put together the perfect trip for you, including France travel tips and the best places to visit in France.

A tapestry of experiences awaits you every day, from the chic streets of Paris to the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera. 

Get ready to immerse yourself in the art, history, and romance of France, as each day unfolds with discoveries and unforgettable moments, creating a journey that will stay with you for a lifetime.

10-Day France Itinerary

1 Day in Normandy

Kickstart your journey with a riveting military historical tour by Band of Brothers Tours . Pay tribute to the hallowed grounds of Normandy as you retrace the steps of the Allied Forces during World War II.

The tour will take you to the awe-inspiring Omaha Beach and pay homage to the American cemetery. This experience offers a deep understanding of the sacrifices made by those who fought for freedom. 

Immerse yourself in the soldiers’ poignant stories and heroic acts as you visit the well-preserved bunkers and learn about the challenges they faced during the D-Day landings. 

This tour provides a profound and educational experience, allowing you to gain a deeper appreciation for the bravery and resilience of the Allied Forces during this pivotal moment in history.

3 Days in Paris

What is a trip to France without exploring its glamorous capital, The City of Lights. There are so many things to do in Paris , it is overflowing with culturally renowned experiences and is a must on your France bucket list .

The peaceful hallways of The Louvre offer exhibits of some of the most canonical artworks of the Western world. The sidewalks are bustling with charming cafes serving croissants and a nice milky coffee. 

And you cannot miss admiring the city from the top of the Eiffel Tower even if it is a workout climbing to the top! But to truly see the city in all its glory, take a sunset boat cruise along the Seine to witness the city sparkle at night.

A visit to the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre provides a glimpse into the artistic heart of Paris, with its quaint streets, lively squares, and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

For a touch of magic, a stroll through the enchanting gardens of Luxembourg Palace.

1 day in Versailles 

About, an hour outside of Paris is the opulent Palace of Versailles, which makes a great day trip from Paris during your 10 day France Itinerary. Explore the adorned hall of Mirrors, stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens, and relive the magnificence of royal life. 

Step back in time and uncover the stories of some of France’s most famous and influential leaders. The backstories of Sun King, Louis XIV, and Marie Antoinette will entice you. Get lost in the rich history and artistic magnificence of this iconic palace. 

As you wander through the opulent chambers and grand halls, you will be transported to a bygone era of extravagance and power, gaining a deeper appreciation for the historical significance of this architectural masterpiece. 

The Palace of Versailles truly offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur and legacy of the French monarchy, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and admirers of art and architecture.

This is a unique and one of the best experiences in France so make sure to include it on your France itinerary.

2 Days in Lyon 

As one of the most beautiful cities in France , Lyon is another popular place to visit next on your France itinerary.

When the hustle and bustle of the city becomes too overwhelming, take a train south to the student town of Lyon. It is not only an academic hub, this city is also the gastronomic capital of France. And it will offer you unforgettable culinary experiences.

To complete the experience, stroll along the cobbled streets of Old Lyon and discover the hidden Traboules. The charm of traditional bouchon, like Le Bonnes Manières, will delight you with local delicacies.

You cannot come all the way out to Lyon without taking a trip to the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière. It is a stunning hilltop masterpiece that offers panoramic views of the city.

Lyon also has a rich history and vibrant culture that is beautifully showcased in its many museums, such as the Musée des Beaux-Arts, making it a well-rounded destination for travelers seeking a blend of culinary delights, historical exploration, and scenic beauty.

1 Day Provence 

Now that you’ve whetted your palette with some of the best food in the world take a train south to Provence . Its idyllic landscapes will enchant you endlessly.

Its rolling hills are famously adorned with lavender fields. Its quaint, medieval towns have inspired many a renowned painter. And the slow pace of Provençal life makes for the perfect retreat.

As you explore the charming villages and vibrant markets, the region’s rich cultural heritage and the warm hospitality of its people will captivate you.

To help you immerse yourself in this lavender-scented region, hire a bike and take a leisurely ride through the vineyards. You can even stop and sample some of the exquisite wines from local cellars like Château Romanin and Domaine de la Vallongue. 

The stunning natural beauty of Provence, with its olive groves, sunflower fields, and picturesque vineyards, creates an atmosphere of tranquility and romance, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a peaceful and rejuvenating escape.

2 Days in French Riviera

When you are planning your trip to France, not adding the French Riviera into your itinerary would be a crime. It is a sun-soaked paradise where azure waters meet glamorous coastal towns.

In Nice, unwinding on the pebble beaches and exploring the Promenade de Anglais will be an unforgettable highlight. And if you like lemon groves and a pastel mosaic of houses then the vibrant streets of Menton will be exactly what you are looking for.

Immerse yourself in the artistic air of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. It is a medieval town long cherished by creatives. And as the sun sets, consider embracing the allure of Monaco, with its ritzy casinos and luxurious atmosphere. 

The French Riviera offers the best of the sun and the sea but it also has a rich cultural tapestry, from the modern art museums to the historic charm.

Exploring the narrow cobblestone streets and art galleries of Saint-Paul-de-Vence will transport you to a world of artistic inspiration, while the glitz and glamour of Monaco provide a taste of luxury and opulence, a blend of relaxation, culture, and sophistication.

Mont Saint-Michel 

What better way to conclude your French journey than with a visit to the enchanting Mont Saint-Michel? It is a dramatic medieval masterpiece rising dramatically from the sea. 

As the tide shifts, watch the island transform into a secluded fortress or an ethereal mirage. Mont Saint-Michel is a poetic conclusion to your journey. It weaves history, architecture, and natural beauty into a beautiful tapestry. 

The ever-changing landscape of Mont Saint-Michel, with its surrounding tidal flats and the mesmerizing play of light and shadow, creates a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

As you explore the abbey and its surroundings, you’ll be transported back in time, feeling the weight of history and the spiritual significance of this iconic site. 

The poetic allure of Mont Saint-Michel serves as a fitting conclusion to your French journey, leaving you with lasting memories of the country’s rich heritage and natural splendor.

Beautiful cities in France

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One-Week Itinerary

One Week in France: The Ultimate Itinerary

If you've only got a week to visit France, you'll have to plan your trip carefully. How to cover plenty of ground while still enjoying the country's diverse regions and popular attractions? This guide is designed to help you just do that.

Your week in France begins in Paris, then gives you options for day trips to Normandy and Champagne, making it unnecessary to change hotels every day. This also gives you a base in the capital so you can take full advantage of its charms. We then head south to the French Riviera and Provence, before moving north to Lyon. On your last day, return to the French capital to explore it further before concluding your adventure.

Day 1: Paris

TripSavvy / Leopoldine Bauer

Welcome to France! After arriving at Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport and arriving in the city, drop off your bags at your hotel and grab some breakfast or lunch from a French bakery . It's then time to start your adventure. Buy some Paris metro tickets , and make sure you have a map or access to online directions.

Your first day begins with a sightseeing cruise of Paris that takes you along the Seine River, giving you a first glimpse of some of the city's big-ticket attractions and an educational audio tour. Choose a cruise that suits your tastes and budget.

In the afternoon, head to the Louvre or the Musée d'Orsay to take in a few masterpieces within their world-class collections. Buying tickets in advance is advised.

Next, take the metro or walk to the Latin Quarter and wander its centuries-old streets, famous for their photogenic details and long history. We recommend wandering at a leisurely pace and stumbling upon quiet corners to explore at random, in addition to seeing the area's main attractions.

Cap off your day with dinner at one of the city's historic brasseries , sitting out on the terrace if the weather permits. Make a reservation during high season.

Day 2: Day Trip to Mont St-Michel or Giverny

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It's time to take advantage of the capital's easy access to other, equally fascinating regions.

Since you only have a day to explore highlights in Normandy, we recommend choosing between two options: a whirl through Monet's Gardens at Giverny or a guided bus tour to Mont St-Michel. Giverny is recommended in spring and early summer, while Mont St-Michel is superb year-round.

Giverny: Located at the edge of Normandy and just over an hour from Paris by train and a quick shuttle, Giverny was long home to French impressionist master Claude Monet. It was here that he painted his famous "Waterlilies" series, inspired by his own Japanese-style gardens. Make sure you arrive by late morning to fully enjoy the site. Stroll through the gardens, explore the house, and have lunch at one of the village's charming local restaurants.

See our full guide to Giverny and Monet's gardens for more info on getting there, highlights to see, and tips on how to make the most of your visit.

Mont St-Michel: Unless you prefer to rent a car, the best way to visit Mont-St-Michel in a day is to take a bus tour, such as the ones offered by Viator. Tours generally leave early in the morning and include round-trip transportation to the UNESCO World Heritage site and medieval abbey, as well as lunch. Explore the centuries-old site and the natural wonders of the surrounding Bay, before returning to Paris.

Day 3: Day Trip to Champagne

Sylvain Sonnet/Corbis Documentary/Getty Images

On day three, you'll once again hop on a train for a short day trip eastward, to the Champagne region. Inexpensive trains to the region depart nearly every hour from the Gare de l'Est, to hub cities including Reims and Troyes.

While it's best known for its world-famous sparkling wines, Champagne also has much to offer by way of architecture, history, food, and contemporary life. It's difficult to see all of the region's highlights in just a day, so we recommend focusing on the cathedral city of Reims and nearby Epernay . You can travel between the two via a short train, bus, or taxi ride (about 30 minutes).

Both are home to some of the region's most famous champagne makers, from Taittinger to Veuve-Cliquot, Dom Perignon, and Mercier. They also house picturesque, rolling vineyards, and fascinating networks of underground cellars, some dating back hundreds of years.

In Reims, after visiting the breathtaking Notre-Dame Cathedral, make sure to see les crayeres, an extensive network of chalk quarries that partly serve as cellars for several champagne producers. These are so historically important that they were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you want to see as much of the region's highlights as possible in a single day, consider taking a guided bus tour to Champagne that includes tastings at several famous cellars and wineries, lunch, cultural attractions, and round-trip transport from Paris.

Day 4: Nice

Frederic Pacorel/Photolibrary/Getty Images

Head to the south of France to see a different side of the country. Nice , a centuries-old city on the Mediterranean and the French Riviera, is your first destination. We recommend boarding a short, direct flight from Paris to save time. Air France, Easyjet, and Lufthansa offer daily flights.

Drop off your bags and go explore the Promenade des Anglais, a 2.5-mile boardwalk stretching along the coast from the Old Town in the east to the airport in the west. Admire the azure-blue sea water and buildings that exemplify 18th-century Belle-Epoque architecture, including the famous Le Negresco hotel.

Take the boardwalk to Nice's Old Town ( Vieux Nice ), whose highlights include 17th-century squares such as the Place Rossetti, winding cobblestone streets, the Opéra de Nice , and an array of shops selling traditional Provencal products and souvenirs. There, browse locally made goods such as olive-oil and lavender-scented soaps.

Next, take the stairs (or Art Deco elevator) at the end of the Quai des États-Unis to reach the  Colline du Château , or Castle Hill. The original, medieval city of Nice was located here within a citadel that has since been dismantled. From here, enjoy fantastic views over Old Town and the Baie des Anges (Angel Bay).

For dinner, get a taste of typical regional cuisine at one of Nice's best restaurants . For a nightcap, consider heading back to the Promenade des Anglais and enjoying a cocktail with sea views, at bars such as  Waka  and  Movida .

Day 5: Aix-en-Provence

TripSavvy / Julie Magnussen

It's your second day in the south, and it's time to head a bit inland to Aix-en-Provence . You can catch a train from Nice to Aix; the trip takes around three hours and 30 minutes, so we recommend that you leave early in the morning to make the most of your destination.

Aix was beloved by resident Paul Cézanne, who remains deeply associated with the town. He painted numerous landscapes of Aix and its surrounding natural scenery, famously capturing what many say is incomparable light. Start your visit of the town by taking a walk along a route known as the Cézanne Trail , allowing you both to get acquainted with some of Aix's most-iconic sites and learn a bit of art history. You can also take a guided tour if preferred.

Next, visit the town's beloved market square at Place Richelme, a food market open daily. Take in the busy-yet-relaxed scenes of Provencal life on the square, browse the market stalls, and enjoy dappled light playing on the warm stone buildings.

You can have lunch (al fresco, if weather permits) at one of the traditional restaurants or brasseries lining the square.

Wondering what else to do in town? See this page for a complete guide to enjoying Aix to the fullest.

Day 6: Lyon

 TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Grab an early breakfast, then hop on the high-speed TGV train from Aix-en-Provence to Lyon. The journey takes about an hour and 10 minutes.

Lyon , nestled in the Rhone Valley and surrounded by spectacular vineyards, is one of France's most-important cities in terms of both population and cultural history. It's a culinary capital, home to legendary chefs such as the late Paul Bocuse. It also boasts thousands of years of history, having served as the Roman capital of Gaul.

After checking into your hotel, explore the city by foot, local bus or metro. We especially recommend exploring Old Lyon ( Vieux Lyon ) around the banks of the Saone river. See the breathtaking St-Jean Cathedraland wander through the medieval and Renaissance-era streets, before taking a guided tour of the area's "traboules," passageways between buildings once used by silk workers to transport textiles. During World War II, French resistance fighters used them to hide from the Gestapo.

If time allows, visit the Museum of Gallo-Roman Civilization and see two well-preserved Roman theaters that crown the hill at Fourvière; one dates to 15 BC. From here, you can enjoy spectacular views over the city. For dinner, enjoy typical regional dishes and wines at a bouchon , one of Lyon's traditional eateries.

Day 7: Return to Paris

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

On your final day, head back to Paris for a last chance to explore the city during this trip. You'll take the TGV train from Lyon to Paris (taking around two and a half hours) and arrive at Gare de Lyon.

It may be close to lunchtime when you arrive. If so, we recommend having lunch at Le Train Bleu , a grand restaurant situated on the second floor of the Gare de Lyon station. Its ornate, sprawling dining room and traditional menu offer a memorable, old-world Parisian experience.

Next, it's time to explore the right bank a bit. Take the metro (line 1) to Hotel de Ville. Get off and admire Paris City Hall before exploring the Marais district, with its well-preserved Renaissance mansions, picturesque squares, fashionable boutiques and delicious street food .

Around sunset, head south from the Marais back to the banks of the Seine and enjoy picturesque views of the water and Ile St-Louis from the Pont Marie , one of the city's loveliest bridges. If time allows, take a stroll on the natural island that connects to it across the river.

For your last evening, choose between dinner in arty, historic Montmartre followed by a show at a typical Parisian cabaret, or a delicious meal of wine, cheese, and small plates at one of the city's   inest wine bars . We recommend Frenchie Bar à Vin and Le Verre Volé.

France Guide: Planning Your Trip

How to Travel from Frankfurt to Paris by Train, Bus, Car, and Plane

The Top 15 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in France

How to Travel from Paris to Aix-en-Provence by Train, Car, Bus, and Plane

Avoid these First-timers France Travel Mistakes

Top Gardens of France

Paris Guide: Planning Your Trip

The Best Time to Visit France

The Best Time to Visit Marseille

Getting Around Paris: Guide to Public Transportation

Top 20 Most Popular French Cities for International Visitors

Aix en Provence: Planning Your Trip

The 12 Best Day Trips From Paris

The Top 15 Things to Do in France

Top French Wine Tours, Regions and Wine Routes

The Essential Guide to Alsace, France: What to See & Do

France Itineraries

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My niece and I attended this terrific workshop. We learned a lot and had tons of fun. The bread and pastries were amazing. It was great to get behind the s...

The following itineraries are designed to lead you up, down and round about la belle France – picking out the crème de la crème of the country’s cities, valleys and mountains, vineyards and coastline.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for France, created by local experts

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An active walking tour out of the way in France

Your trip starts with an in-depth introduction to France in Paris: several unique day excursions connect you with local Parisians to show you their city and way of life. Afterwards continue south to start a few days walking journey through Southern France before ending around Avignon.

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Southern France – Walks in the Alpilles and Lavender fields

Start your tour in the coastal city of Marseille, exploring Cassis on the way. Around the Alpilles in Provence, you will be provided with detailed walking materials to explore the area on foot, from both Les Baux and St Remy. End your tour in famous Avignon.

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Tasting Eastern France

A delicious yet active journey through Eastern France. Start your trip in Lyon with some unique food tours before setting off on a 4-day walk across the Beaujolais region. Almost every day ends with a wine tasting in your guesthouse, soothing for body and soul.

Recommended France itineraries

If you are planning your travel to France yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

Jardin du Luxembourg, Paris

France Itinerary 1 - Le grand tour

Crossing off the iconic sights takes up most visitors’ first few days, but leave time for soaking up that legendary Parisian chic while relaxing in pavement cafés and squares.

2. Normandy

The chocolate-box port of Honfleur makes the obvious base for day-trips to the Bayeux tapestry, D-Day Beaches and Le Mont St-Michel.

3. Loire Valley

Use Amboise as your pied-à-terre in the beautiful Loire Valley, famed for its fairy-tale castles.

4. Dordogne

An abundance of medieval clifftop castles, prehistoric cave art and sublime local cuisine account for the enduring popularity of the Dordogne.

5. Carcassonne

Take in a couple of the southern Lot’s bastide towns and Cathar castles en route to the magnificently turretted Carcassonne.

6. Arles, West Provence

The elegant Pont du Gard and beautifully preserved theatre at Orange are just two of the many Roman vestiges within reach of Arles.

7. Gorges du Verdon, East Provence

String together as many villages perchés as you can on the high road across the Var to the awesome Gorges du Verdon.

8. The Alps

A jaw-dropping journey north through the heart of Europe’s highest mountains culminates with the snowfields of Mont Blanc.

9. Nancy, Lorraine

A serene and refined city, Nancy has one of the most elegant places in Europe – Place Stanislas.

Travel back to the capital via the sobering monument to World War I’s fallen at Verdun.

France Itinerary 2 - Viticultural odyssey

1. Saumur, Loire

Known for its cool-climate-style whites, such as Sancerre, Vouvray and Muscadet, the Loire’s varied wines are best sampled from the pretty town of Saumur.

2. St-Émilion, Bordeaux

St-Émilion is an ideal springboard for visiting the famous châteaux around Bordeaux.

3. St-Jean-Pied-de-Port, Pays Basque

In the Pyrenean foothills, St-Jean is a delightfully picturesque medieval town where you can taste the luscious sweet wines of nearby Jurançon.

4. Béziers, Languedoc

The sun-drenched land sweeping from the Mediterranean coast is the world’s largest wine-producing region, and Béziers, its capital, is perfectly placed for tasting forays to Collioure, Banyuls and Faugères.

5. Bandol, Côte d’Azur

Low rainfall and oodles of sunshine are the hallmarks of the region to the east of Marseille, where the fishing village of Bandol is home to the flagship wine; reds and rosés rule the roost here.

6. Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Provence

The wines produced around this ancient village in the southern Rhône are legendary – and expensive.

7. Beaune, Bourgogne

Burgundy boasts more AOP designation wine than anywhere else and the medieval town of Beaune is the recommended base.

8. Colmar, Alsace

The Fecht valley, just west of Colmar, is striped with steeply shelving vines – source of Alsace’s finest Rieslings and Gewürtztraminers.

9. Épernay, Champagne

France’s champagne capital, Épernay, is the place to sample the country’s best bubbly.

France Itinerary 3 - Iconic landscapes

1. Les Falaises d’Étretat, Normandy

The chalk cliffs, needles and arches of Étretat inspired Monet, Courbet, Flaubert and Maupassant in their day, and now offer a superb, if dizzying, coastal walk.

2. Les Volcans d’Auvergne

With their grassy slopes, cratered summits and ridgetops, the extinct volcanoes running across the Massif Central create a mountain environment unlike any other.

3. Grande Cascade de Gavarnie, Pyrenees

France’s tallest waterfall crashes 423 metres from the awesome Cirque de Gavarnie in the Pyrenees.

4. Gorge de l’Ardèche

Kayak down the magnificent Gorge de l’Ardèche, lined by 300-metre-tall limestone cliffs. Famous landmarks include the Pont d’Arc, the largest natural bridge in Europe.

5. Lavender fields, Provence

Immortalized in the paintings of Van Gogh and Cézanne, the lavender fields of the southeast are at their most fragrant in early summer.

6. Golfe de Porto, Corsica

The red porphyry cliffs of Corsica’s wild northwest coast rise from a bay of exquisite cobalt blue to a wall of snow-streaked granite mountains.

7. Les Gorges du Verdon, Vaucluse

France’s own Grand Canyon forms a spectacular trench in the Provençal limestone.

8. Mer de Glace, French Alps

Hop on the rack railway from Chamonix for a stupendous view of Europe’s largest glacier.

The Rough Guides to France and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for France

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to France

• Eating and drinking in France
• Getting around France: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips France for planning and on the go
• How to get to France
• Outdoor activities
• Shopping tips for France
• Best time to visit France

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Fabulous 10-Day France Itinerary:  See the Best of France!

Planning a trip to France?  With so many amazing French cities, it’s hard to pick the best ones to visit.

I’ve traveled to France over half a dozen times (Paris is my favorite travel destination!). My trips across the country have ranged from the sunny French Riviera to the beaches of Normandy. 

I’ve put together the perfect 10-day France itinerary to help you explore some of the best cities in France. 

Plus, you can travel to all these destinations by train for a stress-free French vacation.

Lace up your shoes and let’s go!

Table of Contents

Recommended duration:  3-5 days

Paris is the number one tourist destination in the world, so it’s no surprise that your French itinerary begins here.  Plus, with two major airports (Charles de Gaulle and Orly), Paris is the easiest point of entry for most international visitors. 

Paris is also a hub for the efficient French railway system, so it’s easy to travel around France from Paris.

Best Things to Do in Paris

I recommend starting your trip to Paris by taking a cruise along the Seine.  It’s a great way to get your bearings in the city, even if you have jet lag.

The banks of the Seine are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and many top Paris attractions are visible from the river.  Pass by the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

For a more romantic experience, why not take a Seine River dinner cruise?  Paris is beautiful at night, with its monuments illuminated (it is known as the City of Light, after all!).  You won’t want to miss the Eiffel Tower light show at the top of the hour.

Climbing the Eiffel Tower is at the top of bucket list experiences for many travelers.  If you want to ascend the tower, purchase your tickets in advance.  If you’re looking for great Eiffel Tower pictures, cross the river and take in the stunning views from the Trocadéro.

For another iconic Paris viewpoint, head to Montmartre.  This is where you’ll find the fabulous Sacré-Cœur Basilica.  It’s the second most visited French church, and for good reason. The basilica is incredible, and so are the views of Paris.

Paris is filled with gorgeous parks and gardens. These are great places to relax, enjoy the flowers and statues, and do some people-watching.  I love to pick up cheese and a baguette from a local market and head to the Luxembourg Gardens for a picnic!

If you love gardens, you’ll want to take a day trip to Versailles.  Even if you’re not interested in touring the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the gardens alone are worth a trip.  The fantastic gardens are free to visit, except on days of the musical fountain shows.

Best Museums in Paris

Paris is an art lover’s dream!  There are so many world-class art museums in Paris that it can be tough to choose.  If you plan to visit several museums during your stay, consider purchasing the Paris Museum Pass to save time and money.

The Louvre is the most visited museum in the world, and it is home to countless treasures of the art world.  I love classical statues such as the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace .  One of the most famous pieces in the Louvre is da Vinci’s Mona Lisa.

If you love Impressionist art, you’ll want to visit the Musée d’Orsay.  This stellar museum is housed in a former train station, making a dramatic showcase for the art.  Enjoy works by Impressionist masters such as Monet and Degas.

Prefer sculpture?  You won’t want to miss the Musée Rodin. The highlight is the sculpture garden, where you can enjoy gorgeous pieces such as The Thinker in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Recommended duration:  3-4 days

From the capital city of Paris, we journey to Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France.

The best way to get from Paris to Lyon is by train.  It’s a fast 2-hour trip on a high-speed train from the Gare de Lyon in Paris to the Lyon Part-Dieu station.

A great way to save money during your stay in Lyon is to purchase the Lyon City Card.  Not only does it grant you free access to over 20 museums, but it also comes with free city tours and unlimited use of Lyon’s public transportation network.

Best Things to Do in Lyon

Foodies will love visiting Lyon.  Whether you dine at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in Lyon or prefer a more casual meal at a cozy bouchon , Lyonnais cuisine is sure to please! 

Try a savory quenelle (fish dumpling) or treat your sweet tooth to the praline rose (pink sugared almonds).   Don’t miss the famous gourmet food market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse!

One of the best things to do in Lyon is to explore its charming historic neighborhood, Vieux Lyon.  Wander along the picturesque cobblestoned streets and search out Lyon’s secret passageways, called traboules . 

Ride the funicular up to the top of Fourvière Hill.  One of the must-see attractions in Lyon is the stunning Notre Dame de Fourvière Basilica.  Go inside — you won’t want to miss the magnificent gilded mosaics and stained-glass windows.

Visitors don’t just come here for the basilica – the panoramic views of Lyon from this hilltop vantage point are spectacular.  Gaze down and see the Saint-Jean-Baptiste Cathedral in Vieux Lyon, with the Rhône and Saône rivers lazily twisting through the city.

Take a sightseeing river cruise on the Saône and marvel at the architecture of Lyon.  It’s a unique blend of Renaissance buildings in Old Lyon and ultra-modern architecture such as the Orange Cube and the Musée des Confluences.

In addition to its gastronomy, Lyon is known for its incredible trompe-l’oeil murals. As you stroll through the city, keep your eyes open for these spectacular frescoes.  Le Mur des Canuts and the Fresque des Lyonnais will have you doing a double take to figure out what is real and what is a painted scene!

Best Museums in Lyon

No matter what you’re interested in, you’re sure to find a museum in Lyon that you’ll love.

If you prefer fine arts, spend an afternoon at the Musée des Beaux-Arts.   This fine arts museum is housed in a former 17 th -century abbey off the Place des Terreaux.  Be sure to take a moment to relax in the museum’s serene courtyard, where classical statues are sprinkled throughout the garden.

History buffs will enjoy a journey back to Roman times at the Lugdunum Museum.  This museum features artifacts from Lyon’s Roman history.  It’s built into the side of Fourvière Hill overlooking the Gallo-Roman theater, so it’s easy to visit the ruins along with your trip to the museum.

Lyon is the birthplace of cinematography.  Learn about the Lumière brothers and their invention of the Cinématographe at the Musée Lumière.  Or visit the Cinema and Miniatures Museum and immerse yourself in the world of special effects and props from blockbuster films.

Recommended duration:  1-2 days

Dijon is the capital of the Burgundy region of France and, like Lyon, is known for its food and wine.

The train is the best way to get from Lyon to Dijon, with the fastest routes taking just over an hour and a half. (When you’re ready to head back to Paris at the end of your France trip, hop on the high-speed train. You’ll arrive in Paris in about an hour and a half.)

Best Things to Do in Dijon

Dijon has quite a culinary reputation.  It is best known for mustard, but don’t miss out on regional specialties such as boeuf bourguignon and pain d’epices .   (This take on gingerbread differs from the classic holiday cookies you’re used to but is still delicious!)

One of the best ways to see the highlights of Dijon is to follow the Owl’s Trail, or Le Parcours de la Chouette .  Just follow the markers built into the cobblestones of Dijon’s streets to find the 22 main attractions in Old Dijon. 

You’ll see the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, the Darcy Gardens, the Porte Guillaume, Les Halles de Dijon, and the Tour Philippe le Bon.  Feeling energetic?  Climb the tower for fabulous views of Dijon and the Place de la Libération.

Be sure to keep your eyes open to spot the Owl of Dijon, carved into the façade of the Notre-Dame de Dijon church.   The owl is Dijon’s good-luck charm.  It’s said to be lucky to stroke the owl, or maybe you’ll even have a wish granted.

The colorful rooftops in Dijon are sure to catch your eye!  Colorful glazed tiles arranged in geometric patterns are a signature of Burgundian architecture.

Best Museums in Dijon

The Musée des Beaux-Arts de Dijon is housed in the eastern wing of the Palais des Ducs.  The extensive collection includes paintings, classical statues, and the tombs of some of the Dukes of Burgundy.  It’s easy to spend several hours admiring the artwork here.

Other top Dijon museums include the Natural History Museum (located at the edge of the lovely Arquebuse Botanical Garden) and the Museum of Burgundian Life.

Best of all, admission to all public Dijon museums is free!

Final Thoughts

This fantastic ten-day France itinerary will make travel memories you’ll treasure. 

From the iconic sights of Paris to the tantalizing cuisine of Lyon and Dijon, it’s easy to love exploring some of the best cities in France.

I bet you will want to come back to experience more of what France has to offer!

Bon Voyage!

About the Author

Lisa is an engineer by profession, a traveler by obsession, and the founder of the Waves and Cobblestones and Travel to Lyon travel blogs.  Whether you are planning a two-week trip to France or have just one day in Cabo San Lucas on a cruise, her destination guides and travel tips will help you have an amazing trip.  Lace up your shoes and let’s go!  

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Travel Home > France > Itineraries > France in 5 Days Itinerary

France in 5 Days Itinerary

• Officially Licensed Guides

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Flexible rescheduling, how to spend 5 days in france.

Welcome to our 5-day tour itinerary of France, where you will discover the highlights of Paris, the grandeur of Versailles, and the picturesque beauty of the Loire Valley. This tour is a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature, offering an unforgettable experience to travelers.

Get ready for a journey full of breathtaking scenery, rich history, and cultural experiences. We look forward to showing you the best of France over these five days!

Trip Highlights

• Paris Tours
• Versailles Guided Tour
• Giverny Day Trip
• Loire Valley Tour

What's Included?

• Luxury Transport
• Private Drivers
• 24 Hour Online Support
• Fully Customizable Tour Itinerary
• Free Cancellation & Rescheduling

Day 1: Paris

Welcome to Paris, the City of Light and Love! This itinerary will guide you through two days of private, guided tours of some of the most iconic and beautiful sights in the city. Get ready to discover the rich history, culture, and beauty of Paris with your personal guide.

Eiffel Tower & Champ de Mars

Start your first day in Paris with a visit to the Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.

Your guide will escort you to the entrance of the tower and ensure that you avoid the long lines often associated with visiting this popular attraction. Once you reach the top, your guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the city, pointing out notable landmarks and providing interesting historical and cultural insights.

At the top, you’ll have 360-degree views of the city, allowing you to take in the beauty and grandeur of Paris from a breathtaking perspective.

Afterward, descend the tower and accompany your guide as you Take a walk around the Champ de Mars, the vast public park that surrounds the tower, and soak in the sights and sounds of the city. Don’t forget to snap a photo or two to capture the memory!

The Latin Quarter & Sorbonne University

Next, head to the Latin Quarter, a charming and historic neighborhood in the center of Paris. Here, your guide will take you on a stroll through the narrow, winding streets lined with historic buildings, quaint cafes, and charming boutiques. You’ll learn about the history of the Latin Quarter, which was once home to some of the greatest minds and thinkers of the Middle Ages, including scholars and philosophers.

Your guide will then take you to Sorbonne University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. This historic institution was founded in the 13th century and has been at the forefront of education and research ever since. Here, you’ll see the beautiful neo-classical buildings and courtyards that make up the university and learn about its storied history and cultural significance.

As you explore the Latin Quarter and Sorbonne University, you’ll get a unique glimpse into the cultural and intellectual heart of Paris and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich history and tradition of learning and innovation.

Luxembourg Gardens

After exploring the Latin Quarter, your guide will take you to the Luxembourg Gardens, a beautiful public park located in the heart of Paris. This stunning park is a peaceful oasis in the bustling city, filled with well-manicured gardens, serene lakes, and charming sculptures.

As you walk through the park, your guide will point out the highlights and give you a history of the gardens, including the palace that serves as the official residence of the Senate of France. You’ll also have the opportunity to see the many monuments and statues that adorn the park, including the famous Medici Fountain and the bronze statue of Queen Victoria.

In the warmer months, the Luxembourg Gardens come to life with the sounds of live music and the smell of blooming flowers, making it a perfect place to relax and soak in the beauty of Paris. Whether you’re a nature lover or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, a visit to the Luxembourg Gardens is a must.

Seine River Cruise

An evening riverboat tour on the Seine River in Paris is a unique and magical experience. The Seine River winds its way through the heart of Paris, providing a stunning backdrop for the city’s iconic landmarks and monuments.

As you board your riverboat, you’ll be greeted by the warm glow of the city lights and the twinkling lights that line the riverbank. Your guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the sights along the way, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum, among others.

As you glide along the river, you’ll be able to take in the sights and sounds of Paris from a whole new perspective. The riverboat tour provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city and a chance to see Paris in all its evening glory.

Day 2: The Louvre Museum

On the second day of your tour, your guide will take you to one of the most famous museums in the world, the Louvre Museum. This iconic institution is home to an unparalleled collection of art and artifacts, including some of the most famous works of art in the world, such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.

Your private guide will escort you through the museum, providing you with a personalized and intimate tour of its many galleries and collections. They will share their expert knowledge and provide you with a deeper understanding of the art, history, and cultural significance of each piece.

In addition to the famous works of art, your guide will also take you to see some of the lesser-known gems of the Louvre, providing you with a unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re an art aficionado or simply looking to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Paris, a visit to the Louvre Museum is a must-do.

Your guide will ensure that you make the most of your time at the museum, providing you with a well-rounded and informative tour that will leave you with a lasting appreciation for the art and history of Paris.

Musée d'Orsay

The next stop is the world-famous Musée d’Orsay museum. This stunning museum is housed in a former train station and is dedicated to the arts from the mid-19th century to the early 20th century.

At the Musée d’Orsay, you’ll have the opportunity to see some of the greatest masterpieces of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Degas, Van Gogh, and many others. Your private guide will provide you with a comprehensive tour of the museum, sharing their expertise and knowledge of the art and artists on display.

In addition to the world-renowned collection of art, the Musée d’Orsay is also a stunning architectural landmark, with its magnificent glass dome and ornate clock tower. Your guide will take you on a tour of the building, showcasing its beautiful design and rich history.

A visit to the Musée d’Orsay is a must-do for art lovers and anyone interested in the cultural heritage of Paris. Your guide will ensure that you have a personalized and unforgettable experience, complete with rich historical and cultural insights and breathtaking views of the museum’s stunning collection.

Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe

Now it’s time to visit two of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. The Champs-Élysées is one of the most famous shopping and dining avenues in the world and the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely stroll and see the sights of Paris.

Your guide will lead you down the Champs-Élysées, providing you with a detailed history of this iconic avenue and pointing out the many landmarks and monuments along the way. They will also share their knowledge of the local shopping and dining scene, ensuring that you have a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Just a one-minute walk away, you will arrive at The Arc de Triomphe, one of the most recognizable landmarks in Paris. This magnificent triumphal arch is a symbol of French military victories and has been a site of national ceremonies and events for over 200 years.

At the Arc de Triomphe, you’ll have the opportunity to climb to the top for breathtaking views of Paris and the surrounding neighborhoods. Your guide will provide you with a detailed history of the arch and its significance in French history and culture, ensuring that you have a memorable and educational experience.

Sainte-Chapelle & Île de la Cité

The Sainte-Chapelle is a stunning example of French Gothic architecture.

Your guide will provide you with a comprehensive tour of the Sainte-Chapelle, sharing their knowledge of its history, art, and architecture. They will also give you the opportunity to admire the breathtaking stained glass windows, which are considered to be some of the finest examples of medieval glasswork in the world.

After visiting the Sainte-Chapelle, your guide will take you to the Île de la Cité, the birthplace of Paris and one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. The Île de la Cité is home to many famous landmarks and monuments, including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Palais de Justice.

Your guide will take you on a leisurely tour of the Île de la Cité, providing you with a rich cultural and historical context of the area. They will also point out the many landmarks and monuments along the way, ensuring that you have a well-rounded and memorable experience.

Evening Luxury Dining Experience

To end your 2 days in Paris, your guide will take you to a luxurious French restaurant, where you’ll experience the best in classic French cuisine. From the moment you step into the restaurant, you’ll be treated to a warm and welcoming atmosphere, complete with elegant décor, soft lighting, and impeccable service.

You’ll be seated at a table that offers stunning views of Paris, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the city as you dine. Your guide will help you choose from the restaurant’s extensive menu, which features classic French dishes made with the freshest and highest-quality ingredients.

Whether you’re in the mood for a delicate bouillabaisse, a rich and hearty coq au vin, or a decadent crème brûlée, your meal will be a true feast for the senses. Each dish will be expertly prepared, showcasing the subtle flavors and aromas that have made French cuisine famous around the world.

To accompany your meal, your guide will help you choose from a selection of fine French wines, ensuring that your dining experience is truly unforgettable.

As you savor your meal, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on the many sights and experiences you’ve had over the past two days in Paris as the next three days of your France in 5 days tour will be spent exploring the best day trips from the city.

Day 3: Driver-Guided Day Trip to Versailles Palace

Your driver-guide will meet you at your hotel in Paris as you prepare to make the 40-minute journey to Versailles Palace in our luxury air-conditioned vehicle.

Guided Tour of the Palace of Versailles

Upon arrival at the Palace of Versailles, your guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of this magnificent and historic building. You will have the opportunity to learn about the history and significance of the palace, as well as the daily life and routines of the French monarchy during its heyday.

Guided Tour of State Apartments and Rooms

Your guide will take you through the stunning state apartments, including the King’s Grand Apartment, the Queen’s Grand Apartment, and the Hall of Mirrors, which is widely considered one of the most beautiful rooms in the palace. You’ll also have the chance to see the stunning artwork, furniture, and décor that adorn the palace, providing a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur of the French court.

Introduction to the Versailles Palace Gardens

The Palace of Versailles is not only famous for its grand and opulent interior but also for its magnificent gardens. The gardens, designed by the famous landscape architect André Le Nôtre, are a masterpiece of the French Baroque style and an iconic symbol of French royalty.

The tour begins with a stroll along the Grand Canal, a long and narrow body of water that runs through the center of the gardens. The canal is surrounded by manicured lawns, trimmed hedges, and pristine flower beds and is lined with a series of magnificent statues and fountains.

One of the highlights of the gardens is the numerous fountains and sculptures that dot the landscape. From the spectacular Apollo Fountain to the tranquil Fountain of Latona, each fountain tells a different story and is a work of art in its own right.

During our tour, we will learn about the symbolism and meaning behind the fountains and sculptures and appreciate the skill and creativity of the artists and artisans who created them. We will also discuss the technological innovations of the time, such as hydraulic engineering, that allowed for the creation of these magnificent fountains.

Finally, you will visit the Trianons and the English-Style Garden. These intimate and charming structures, surrounded by gardens in the English style, provide a contrast to the grandeur of the main palace and gardens.

Your driver will return you to your Paris accommodation in the evening.

Day 4: Giverny & its Importance in the Art World

Giverny is a small town located in the region of Normandy, France. It is best known as the home and inspiration of the legendary Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Monet lived and painted in Giverny for over 40 years, creating some of his most famous works in his gardens and surroundings. Today, Giverny attracts thousands of visitors each year, eager to see the places that inspired one of the greatest artists of all time.

As a starting point for our guided day tour, we will explore the significance of Giverny in the art world and understand why Monet chose this idyllic village as his home and source of inspiration.

Your journey time will take either approx 1 hour and 20 minutes in a private car, or approx 55 minutes by train.

Claude Monet's House and Gardens: A Stroll through the Artist's Inspiration

One of the highlights of our guided day tour of Giverny is, naturally, a visit to Claude Monet’s house and gardens. The house, which has been preserved and restored to its original condition, offers a glimpse into the personal life and artistic vision of the master painter. Here, we will explore the rooms where Monet lived and worked and see how his love for nature and beauty is reflected in his home décor.

As we step outside, we will enter Monet’s stunning gardens, which were the main source of inspiration for many of his iconic paintings. The gardens are divided into two parts: the flower garden, filled with vibrant blooms and sweet fragrances, and the water garden, with its iconic Japanese bridge and lily pond. As we stroll through these peaceful and picturesque surroundings, we will understand why Monet was so captivated by the beauty of nature and how it influenced his art.

The Water Lily Pond: A Study in Light and Color

One of the most famous and recognizable elements of Monet’s gardens is the water lily pond. This tranquil body of water served as the subject of many of Monet’s paintings and is considered one of the defining works of the Impressionist movement.

As we approach the water lily pond, we will see why it was such a powerful source of inspiration for Monet. The pond, surrounded by lush greenery and dotted with water lilies, provides a harmonious balance of light and color. Monet was particularly interested in capturing the changing moods of the water and the way it reflected the sky and surrounding landscape.

During our visit, we will discuss the techniques and methods used by Monet in his water lily series and how he sought to convey the ephemeral beauty of nature through his paintings. This is an opportunity to appreciate the masterful use of color, light, and brushwork that made Monet one of the greatest artists of all time.

As we stand by the pond and soak in its peaceful atmosphere, we will understand why Monet referred to it as his “supreme work of art.”

The Japanese Bridge and Its Symbolism in Monet's Work

Another of the most striking features of Monet’s water garden is the Japanese bridge. This delicate wooden bridge, covered in ivy and surrounded by water lilies, provides a picturesque view that Monet captured in many of his paintings.

During our guided tour, we will explore the symbolism and significance of the Japanese bridge in Monet’s work. The bridge was not only a functional element that allowed Monet to cross the pond but also a visual symbol of the connection between the two halves of the garden and a representation of the balance between nature and art.

Monet’s use of the Japanese bridge in his paintings is also representative of his interest in Eastern culture and the influence of Japanese art on the Impressionist movement. We will discuss how Monet’s innovative use of color, light, and composition transformed the simple wooden bridge into a powerful expression of his artistic vision.

As we walk across the bridge, we will see the view that Monet captured in so many of his paintings and appreciate the beauty of the water lily pond from a new perspective.

Day 5: Driver-Guided Tour to Loire Valley Wine Region

Just over 2 hours away from Paris in our executive vehicle with your private driver, you will arrive at The Loire Valley in France is a region famous for its revered wine estates and vineyards, rolling hills, picturesque villages, towering castles, and often referred to as the “Garden of France.”

During our guided day tour, we will explore the beauty and history of this remarkable region and discover why it is considered one of the most important wine regions and cultural landscapes in France.

The Villages of the Loire Valley

As we travel through the Loire Valley, we will stop to explore some of the region’s charming and picturesque villages, such as Amboise and Blois. These villages are known for their half-timbered houses, picturesque streets, and rich cultural heritage, and they are the perfect place to experience the local way of life.

The Royal Château de Blois

The Royal Château de Blois is a magnificent castle in the center of the town of Blois and one of the most important historical sites in the Loire Valley. From its grand halls to its intricate stonework, Blois is a fascinating example of French Renaissance architecture and a testament to the power and wealth of the French monarchy.

Private Wine Estate Tour

A vineyard and private wine estate tour in the Loire Valley typically include a visit to a local winery, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the wine-making process and sample the various wines produced on the estate.

The tour will also include a visit to the vineyards, where you can see the grapes growing and learn about the various methods used to cultivate the vines.

During the private tasting session, a knowledgeable guide will lead you through a guided tasting of the estate’s wines, explaining the flavors, aromas, and history of each wine. The experience is typically intimate and tailored to your specific interests, making it a unique and memorable way to discover the wine culture of the Loire Valley.

The Gardens of Villandry

The Gardens of Villandry are considered one of the finest examples of French Renaissance gardens in France and are a must-see destination for anyone interested in gardens and horticulture. From its intricate knot gardens to its magnificent water features, the gardens are a feast for the eyes and a peaceful oasis in the midst of the Loire Valley.

At the end of the tour, you have the option of remaining in the Loire Valley for the evening or returning to your Paris-based accommodation.

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Your private guide and/or driver will meet you at the pre-arranged starting point of your tour and everything necessary for a seamless tour experience.

Contact Us About A 5-Day Tour Of France

This 5-day tour itinerary was designed to deliver the best of Paris, Versailles, and Loire Valley; however, this is just one of the numerous ways to spend 5 days in France.

Use our online contact form to discuss any aspect of this tour with our team. Our tour planning specialists would be happy to create a completely complimentary 5-day tour itinerary of France for you.

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Home » Itineraries » 28 Day Tour

Four Weeks in France Tour Itinerary

Private tours, free refunds & rescheduling, customizable itineraries, spend a month traveling france with your own guides.

Welcome to our 28-day France tour itinerary, curated by the specialists at Luxury France Tours.

With our four-week-long itinerary, you will stroll the romantic streets of Paris, immersing yourself in the birthplace of haute couture and world-renowned cuisine, explore the enchanting vineyards of Champagne and Burgundy, taste some of the world’s finest wines, bask in the Mediterranean sun in Nice and the French Riviera and much more besides.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food and wine connoisseur, or simply a lover of life’s finer things, this tour promises to enrich, inspire, and delight in equal measure. So join us at Luxury France Tours for a month-long journey through France that you’ll remember for a lifetime. Bon voyage!

Destinations on our 4-Week itinerary

Each day of the tour has been meticulously planned to provide unique experiences and offer an authentic taste of French life. With a private driver and a dedicated guide by your side, you’ll have the freedom and flexibility to truly delve into the heart of each destination.

Throughout the journey, you will stay in handpicked hotels that not only provide exceptional comfort but also reflect the local character and charm.

• Day 1-4: Exploring Paris
• Day 5-8: Reims & Champagne Route
• Day 9-12: Dijon and Burgundy Wine Region
• Day 13-14: Beune Vineyards & Wine Estates
• Day 15-17: Best of Lyon
• Day 18: Beaujolais Wineries
• Day 19-20: Avignon Old Town & Highlights
• Day 21: Provence Lavender Fields
• Day 22: Gordes and Roussillon Day Trip
• Day 23-27: French Riviera - Nice, Monaco, & Cannes
• Day 28: Departure

Day 1: Arrival in Paris

We begin our 28-day journey in the enchanting city of Paris, often referred to as the City of Love or the City of Lights. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your private driver, ensuring a comfortable journey to your hotel.

Settle into your luxury hotel and familiarize yourself with its amenities. Once you’ve had a chance to rest, prepare for an introductory exploration of the city’s nearby attractions.

Paris Walking Tour

Accompanied by your private guide, embark on an enlightening walking tour of Paris. Your guide will help you navigate the city’s streets, pointing out significant landmarks and hidden gems.

You’ll get an overview of Paris’s layout, making it easier to explore independently in the following days. Soak in the charm of Paris on this initial day, setting the tone for the incredible journey to come.

Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, perhaps dining in a local bistro before heading back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 2: Eiffel Tower & Seine River Cruise

Visit the iconic Eiffel Tower and enjoy a river cruise on the Seine.

Morning Visit to the Eiffel Tower

Day 2 begins with a visit to perhaps the most famous sight in all of France, the Eiffel Tower, an everlasting symbol of Paris and an architectural masterpiece.

Your private guide will share fascinating insights about its history and construction. Take the elevator up to the top, where you’ll witness a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris. It’s a sight that’s sure to etch itself into your memory, making your Parisian experience truly unforgettable.

Afternoon Seine River Cruise

Our itinerary will now see you proceed to the banks of the Seine, the lifeline of Paris.

Enjoy a leisurely river cruise, offering a unique perspective of the city. As you glide along the water, observe the exquisite Parisian buildings, bridges, and monuments that line the riverbanks.

Head back to your hotel after a fulfilling day, looking forward to more Parisian adventures in the days to come.

Day 3: Louvre & Notre-Dame Cathedral

Day 3 of our itinerary takes you on private guided tours of the world-renowned Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Visit the Louvre Museum With Skip-The-Line Access

Start your morning by visiting the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s largest and most iconic art museums.

Housing an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts, the Louvre is a treasure trove of cultural heritage. Your private guide will lead you through its vast halls, showcasing masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Immerse yourself in the world of art and history, making this a truly enriching experience.

Afternoon Tour of Notre-Dame Cathedral

Post the Louvre visit, head towards the Notre Dame Cathedral, an awe-inspiring example of French Gothic architecture, freshly re-opened after a catastrophic fire in 2019.

While the exterior is notable for its detailed sculptures and dramatic gargoyles, the interior boasts a serene atmosphere and beautiful stained glass. Learn about its rich history from your guide and, if possible, climb up to enjoy a panoramic view of Paris.

Evening Entertainment: Theatre or Fine Dining

As the day winds down, prepare for an elegant Parisian evening. If you’re a theatre enthusiast, enjoy a captivating performance at one of Paris’s renowned theatres, like the Comédie-Française.

Alternatively, indulge in a classy dining experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant, savoring exquisite French cuisine while reflecting on the day’s adventures. Finally, after an eventful day, return to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Day 4: Paris Cooking Class & Champs-Élysées

Your guide will take you on a walking tour of the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most famous avenues.

This grand boulevard, lined with shops, cafes, and theatres, leads to the Arc de Triomphe, a monumental arch dedicated to French soldiers. Your guide will enlighten you about its historical significance, adding depth to your understanding of French culture.

Afternoon in Montmartre

Venture into the charming neighborhood of Montmartre. Famous for its bohemian past and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre offers stunning views over Paris.

Wander through its quaint, winding streets, visit the bustling Place du Tertre with its artists and portraitists, and explore the Montmartre Museum to learn about the neighborhood’s vibrant history.

Evening French Cooking Class

As evening falls, immerse yourself in a private French cooking class. This hands-on experience will introduce you to the nuances of French cuisine and allow you to create and enjoy your own French meal.

Whether you’re kneading dough for a baguette, flambéing a crêpe, or simmering a coq au vin, this culinary adventure promises to be a memorable part of your Parisian journey.

Return to your hotel, savoring the flavors of the day.

Day 5: Reims

Bid farewell to Paris as you embark on a 2-hour drive to Reims, a city in the Champagne-Ardenne region of France.

Reims Cathedral Tour

Prepare for a private guided tour of the magnificent Reims Cathedral. This Gothic marvel is one of Europe’s most important cathedrals, having been the coronation site for French kings for centuries.

Your guide will share fascinating insights about its architecture, stained glass windows, and historical significance. Marvel at the intricate design and grandeur of this iconic cathedral.

Day 6: Reims - Palace of Tau and the St Remi Museum

Discover the captivating history and stunning architecture of the Palace of Tau and the St Remi Museum, two landmark cultural sites. Following this, you will visit the renowned Champagne cellars, uncovering the sparkling secrets of champagne production.

Exploration of the Palace of Tau

Begin your day with a visit to the Palace of Tau, the former residence of the Archbishops of Reims.

This architectural gem is now a museum that houses an impressive collection of sculptures, tapestries, and other artifacts related to the coronation ceremonies of French kings. Your private guide will provide a deep dive into the history and significance of these pieces, enhancing your appreciation of this important site.

St Remi Museum

In the afternoon, head to the St Remi Museum housed in the ancient St Remi Abbey. The museum hosts a wide array of artifacts from the Gallo-Roman period through the early Middle Ages, providing a comprehensive overview of the region’s past. Your guide will help bring these artifacts to life, shedding light on their context and importance.

Champagne Cellars Tour

No visit to Reims would be complete without exploring its famous Champagne cellars. Embark on a guided tour of these historic cellars, learning about the intricate process of Champagne production, from grape to bottle.

Evening Champagne Tasting Experience

As evening falls, opt for a champagne-tasting experience. Indulge in a selection of the region’s finest bubbly, learning about the subtle differences in flavor and aroma. This tasteful end to your day will surely make your visit to Reims a memorable one. Afterward, return to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Day 7: Exploring the Champagne Route

Today, our itinerary is dedicated to exploring the famous Champagne Route. Along the way, you will visit exquisite Champagne Houses and meander through idyllic vineyards and charming villages. Your guide will share insights about the region’s unique terroir, crucial for producing the world-renowned Champagne.

Visiting Champagne Houses

The route is dotted with prestigious Champagne houses, many of which open their doors to visitors. Take guided tours of these houses, delving deeper into the Champagne-making process, from the vine to the glass.

Evening Champagne Tasting

Your day on the Champagne Route culminates with a delightful Champagne tasting session.

Sample different varieties of the iconic bubbly, appreciating the subtleties in taste and aroma that make each unique. The day’s experience will provide a deeper appreciation for this celebrated beverage.

Day 8: Free Day in Reims

Enjoy a leisurely day in Reims to explore at your own pace. Visit local markets, enjoy French cuisine, or simply relax at your hotel.

In the evening, your guide can recommend a local restaurant where you can enjoy traditional regional dishes, perhaps paired with a glass of Champagne.

Day 9: Dijon - Palace of the Dukes and Notre Dame of Dijon

Bid adieu to Reims as you embark on a comfortable 3-hour drive to Dijon, the capital of the historic Burgundy region.

Palace of the Dukes

After settling in, begin your exploration of Dijon with a visit to the Palace of the Dukes.

This impressive palace was the residence of the Dukes of Burgundy and now houses the city hall and the Museum of Fine Arts. Your private guide will enlighten you about the palace’s history and architectural significance, enhancing your appreciation of this grand edifice.

Visit to Notre Dame of Dijon

Afterward, make your way to the Notre Dame of Dijon, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Marvel at its detailed façade, and don’t miss the “Owl of Dijon,” a small stone carving that’s said to bring good luck when touched with the left hand.

Dijon Mustard Tasting

In the evening, participate in a unique Dijon mustard-tasting experience. Learn about the production process of this famous condiment and sample different varieties.

This flavorful end to your day will be a memorable introduction to the culinary delights of Dijon.

Day 10: Dijon Fine Arts & Food Market

Begin Day 10 with a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the oldest and most prestigious museums in France.

Museum of Fine Arts Tour

Located within the Palace of the Dukes, the museum’s vast collection spans from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary art. Your private guide will lead you through the galleries, offering insights into significant works.

Dijon Food Market

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring Dijon’s vibrant food market. Discover a vast array of local produce, cheeses, meats, and the region’s renowned mustard.

French Cuisine Dinner

Conclude your day with a sumptuous French dinner at a local restaurant recommended by your guide. Savor the flavors of traditional Burgundian dishes, accompanied by a glass of regional wine.

Day 11: Exploring the Burgundy Wine Route

Spend Day 11 journeying along the Burgundy Wine Route with your guide.

Visit vineyards and wine cellars, learn about the winemaking process, and enjoy tastings of the region’s world-famous Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.

Wine and Cheese Pairing

In the evening, participate in a wine and cheese pairing experience. Learn how different cheeses complement the region’s wines and taste some exquisite pairings.

Day 12: Dijon Cooking Class

Welcome to a unique culinary experience in the heart of Dijon – a private cooking class that brings you up close and personal with the rich gastronomy of Burgundy. With a passionate, experienced private chef leading the session, you’re in for a journey through the unique flavors and techniques that define regional cuisine.

Upon arrival at the intimate and well-equipped kitchen, the aroma of fresh ingredients and simmering sauces welcomes you. The chef will introduce you to an array of local produce, explaining their significance and usage in Burgundian cuisine. The ingredients speak of the region’s culinary heritage, from the earthy flavors of the region’s famous Dijon mustard to the richness of Époisses cheese.

Then, it’s time to don your apron and delve into the hands-on experience. You’ll learn to prepare classic Burgundian dishes, guided step-by-step by the expert chef. Whether it’s the savory delight of Coq au Vin or the comforting pleasure of a hearty Beef Bourguignon, the class is a feast of learning and fun.

As you work, the chef will share stories and insights, weaving together the region’s culinary traditions with its history. By the end of the class, you’ll not only have learned to create delectable Burgundian cuisine but also have gained a deeper understanding of Burgundy’s gastronomic culture.

Day 13: Beaune Wine Region

Continue your French adventure with a short, 45-minute drive from Dijon to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy.

Visit Hospices de Beaune

Your exploration of Beaune begins with a guided tour of the Hospices de Beaune, a former charitable almshouse and a jewel of Burgundy’s flamboyant gothic architecture.

Our private guide will illuminate its history, detailing its function as a hospital for the poor in the Middle Ages and its transition into a museum. The highlight is the “Polyptych of the Last Judgement,” a 15th-century masterpiece by Rogier van der Weyden.

Walking Tour of Beaune's Historic Center

Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling around Beaune’s historic center. Admire the preserved medieval architecture, pop into charming boutiques, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this quaint town.

Burgundy Wine Tasting

Partake in a Burgundy wine tasting at a local cellar in the evening. Learn about the region’s celebrated Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines and sample a few vintages.

Day 14: Beaune Vineyards & Wine Tasting

Explore the vineyards around Beaune with wine-tasting sessions guided by your driver.

We have devoted today’s itinerary to exploring the vineyards surrounding Beaune. Your private driver-guide will take you on a tour through the picturesque wine country, stopping at several vineyards along the way.

You’ll learn about the specific terroir of the region, the grape varieties grown, and the meticulous winemaking process that results in some of the world’s most acclaimed wines.

Wine Tasting Sessions

At each vineyard, enjoy guided wine-tasting sessions.

Discover the distinct characteristics of each wine, learning to identify the subtle notes and aromas. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a wine novice, this immersive experience will deepen your appreciation for Burgundy wines.

Day 15: Welcome to Lyon

The next destination on our itinerary will see you arrive in Lyon, a 2-hour drive away with your private chauffeur.

Venture into the heart of France’s gastronomic capital with a guided walking tour of Old Lyon, or Vieux Lyon, one of the largest Renaissance quarters in Europe. As you tread the cobblestone streets and traverse the narrow passageways, or “traboules,” you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Old Lyon Walking Tour

Your tour begins at the foot of Fourvière Hill, the birthplace of ancient Lugdunum, offering a spectacular panoramic view over the city. Here, your knowledgeable guide will introduce you to Lyon’s rich history, dating back to its founding by the Romans in 43 BC.

Descending into the Saint-Jean district, you’ll marvel at the ornate facades of the Renaissance buildings, the stunning St. Jean Cathedral, and the impressive astronomical clock intricately designed with a daily spectacle. Walking further, you’ll cross into the Saint-Paul district, where the influence of Italian Renaissance architecture is clear.

Explore the hidden gems of Vieux Lyon through its ‘traboules,’ secret passageways that weavers once used to transport their silks. These hidden corridors reveal surprising courtyards and spiral staircases, transporting you to a world that whispers of Lyon’s past.

The tour culminates at the lively Saint-Georges district, known for its silk workshops. Throughout the journey, your guide’s stories and anecdotes will illuminate the city’s past and present, making this walkthrough Old Lyon a captivating trip through the ages.

Day 16: Exploring Lyon - Sacred Heights, Green Splendor, and Gastronomic Delights

Begin your Lyon exploration by ascending the Fourvière hill to visit the iconic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

The Majestic Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

This architectural marvel crowned on Lyon’s heights, commands awe-inspiring views of the city.

As you wander through its stunning interiors, your guide will illuminate the basilica’s rich history and intricate mosaics that tell tales of spiritual reverence and artistic prowess. Venture onto the adjacent esplanade, a prime vantage point for capturing Lyon’s expansive cityscape in unforgettable photos.

The Verdant Paradise of Parc de la Tête d'Or

In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the natural wonderland of Parc de la Tête d’Or.

Spread across 117 hectares, this urban park ranks among France’s largest, boasting a zoo, a botanical garden, and a rose garden. Navigate the lush pathways alongside your guide, who will spotlight the park’s array of flora and fauna. Opt for a tranquil boat ride on the park’s vast lake, or simply bask in the serenity of this urban green sanctuary.

Dining at a Traditional Lyonnais Bouchon

Round off your day with a culinary journey at a traditional Lyonnais’ Bouchon.’ Famous for serving up hearty Lyon cuisine packed with robust flavors, bouchons offer a unique gastronomic experience.

Day 17: A Gastronomic Journey Through Lyon

Start your 17th day by immersing yourself in the flavors and aromas of Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a gourmet food market named after the legendary French chef.

A Sensorial Journey at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse

A veritable paradise for food enthusiasts, the market buzzes with a wide variety of local produce, artisan cheeses, delicately crafted pastries, and an array of charcuterie, demonstrating Lyon’s culinary richness.

Your guide will help you navigate this gastronomic labyrinth, introducing you to the delights and stories behind each food stall.

Traboule Tour and Bouchon Lunch

Next, traverse Lyon’s unique traboules, hidden passageways that weave through the old buildings, connecting the city’s streets in an intriguing web of history.

These ancient routes, once used by silk workers, often lead to traditional bouchons tucked away in their depths. Your guide will navigate you through these labyrinthine corridors, culminating in a hearty lunch at one of these distinctive eateries.

Pastry-Making Masterclass

After lunch, indulge your sweet tooth with a pastry-making class led by a local chef.

Under expert guidance, learn to create Lyon’s signature sweet treats, like the crimson praline tart or the famous cousin de Lyon. It’s not only a lesson in baking but also a dive into Lyon’s rich confectionery tradition.

Dine Like a Lyonnais

Round off your day by indulging in a gourmet dinner at one of Lyon’s highly acclaimed restaurants. Here, witness the inventive prowess of modern Lyon chefs as they take traditional ingredients and transform them into culinary masterpieces.

Day 18: Exploring the Beaujolais Wine Region

On Day 18, venture out of the city to explore the beautiful Beaujolais wine region. This picturesque area, characterized by rolling hills and historic vineyards, is renowned for its light, fruity wines.

Your guide will take you to several wineries, where you’ll learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and the unique ‘Gamay’ grape used in Beaujolais wine.

Enjoy a tasting session at each winery, sampling a variety of Beaujolais wines. Your guide will help you identify the unique characteristics of each wine, enhancing your appreciation of this celebrated wine region.

Wine and Dine

In the evening, return to Lyon and enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant.

Opt for dishes paired with the wines you sampled earlier in the day, bringing your Beaujolais experience full circle.

Day 19: Avignon Old Town

Day 19 begins with a 2.5-hour scenic drive from Lyon to Avignon. As the Provençal countryside unfolds before your eyes, your guide will share fascinating stories about the rich history and culture of this region.

Your driver guide will collect you from your hotel in the morning for the 2.5-hour journey to Avignon, a city known for its exceptional blend of history, culture, and the arts, manifested in the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.

The city’s charming old town, with its cobbled streets and beautifully preserved 14th-century ramparts, offers a rich tapestry of historical sites, inviting cafes, and vibrant markets, fostering an ambiance of timeless allure.

Enchanting Stroll through Avignon's Historical Heart

Picture your footsteps echoing over the ancient cobblestones, each one steeped in history, all while surrounded by the formidable medieval walls that have served as the city’s stalwart defenders. As you navigate the vibrant markets, a cornucopia of local goods awaits discovery. As the stories of Avignon are unveiled by your guide, you’ll gain insight into the city’s strategic importance during the stormy times of the Papal Schism.

Evening Culinary Adventure in Provence

Brace your senses for a gastronomic extravaganza at a delightful local restaurant. Indulge in the symphony of Provençal cuisine, a harmonious blend of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that truly mirror the region’s bountiful produce.

Day 20: Immersive Journey through Avignon's Iconic Landmarks

Morning is dedicated to exploring Avignon’s celebrated architectural marvels.

Palais des Papes Tour

Immerse yourself in the grandiosity of the Palais des Papes, an awe-inspiring monument of Gothic architecture that was once the stronghold of popes during the 14th century.

Next, visit the iconic Avignon Bridge or Pont Saint-Bénézet, echoing the refrains of the legendary French song.

Evening Wine Tasting Session

As the day morphs into night, prepare for an enlightening journey into the world of wine appreciation. Relish the sensory exploration as you taste exquisite Côtes du Rhône wines, each sip revealing the rich viticultural tapestry of this renowned region.

Day 21: Exploring the Provence Region

Embark on a journey through the captivating landscapes of Provence, an enchanting region synonymous with natural beauty and an enduring cultural legacy. Here, you’ll find yourself wholly immersed in the delightful medley of sights, sounds, and scents that epitomize the Provençal charm.

A Sea of Purple: Lavender Fields of Provence

Your exploration begins in the heart of a dazzling expanse of lavender fields, the embodiment of Provençal grace.

Picture the endless stretches of undulating purple, bending softly to the rhythm of the breeze. The intoxicating fragrance of the blooms fills the air, lending a note of tranquillity to the picturesque panorama.

Known worldwide for its soothing properties, the lavender of Provence has been used in local arts and crafts and in creating the region’s fragrant soaps and essential oils. As you wander through the lavender rows, be prepared for a sensory feast that will remain with you forever.

Vineyards of Excellence: The Rosé Wines of Provence

We continue to the verdant vineyards renowned for producing some of France’s most esteemed rosé wines. Meander through the orderly rows of grapevines laden with plump grapes ripening under the Mediterranean sun.

These vineyards are the source of the delightful rosé wines that have put Provence on the global viticulture map.

The wines of Provence, known for their vibrant hues and subtle flavors, mirror the region’s vibrant personality. A visit to these vineyards provides a deeper understanding and appreciation of the meticulous artistry involved in creating these cherished wines, further enriching your Provençal experience.

Day 22: Excursion to Gordes and Roussillon

Embark on an excursion to Gordes, a charming village perched high on the hills of the Luberon region. As you approach, the view of this stunning stone-built village, clinging defiantly to the cliff face, is nothing short of breathtaking. Gordes is known as one of the “Most Beautiful Villages of France,” and as you wander through its narrow, winding streets, it’s easy to see why.

The houses, built from local stone, rise in terraces from the rock, their pale facades glowing softly in the Provencal sun. Feel the echoes of the past as you pass historic buildings, ancient washhouses, and the imposing 12th-century castle. The panoramic view from the village is a vast canvas of the Luberon Valley, a mesmerizing sight that invites contemplation and wonder.

The Palette of Nature: Roussillon

Next, take a journey to the vibrant village of Roussillon, another jewel in the crown of Provence. Famous for its magnificent ochre cliffs and quarries, Roussillon is a cascade of colors, a visual symphony ranging from soft yellows to flaming reds. This stunning natural color palette has inspired artists for centuries, and a walk through the Ochre Path (“Sentier des Ocres”) is a must-do for visitors.

The quaint, charming village is just as colorful, with houses painted in shades reflecting the ochre hues. Wander through its streets to discover art galleries, craft shops, and inviting cafes. Don’t miss the panoramic view from the top of the village, where the vistas of the surrounding countryside, painted with vineyards, olive groves, and fields of lavender, will leave you spellbound.

Day 23: The Gateway to French Riviera: Nice

Nestled on the pebble-laden shores of the Mediterranean 2.5 hours drive from Avignon, lies Nice, the crown jewel of the French Riviera, which is a radiant blend of sun-kissed beaches, Belle Époque architecture, and an irresistible, vibrant culture.

As your chauffeur deftly navigates the serpentine coastal roads, the vistas shift from lush vineyards and lavender fields to the azure stretch of the Mediterranean, framed by sun-drenched beaches and opulent villas.

Your guide, a walking encyclopedia of the Riviera’s past and present, will regale you with captivating anecdotes of the region’s glamorous past, filled with tales of famous artists, nobility, and Hollywood stars who have fallen under its spell.

A Promenade through History

On arriving in Nice, spend your afternoon absorbing the city’s allure by strolling along the famous Promenade des Anglais.

This palm-fringed seafront avenue, where the upper echelons of Victorian society would “promenade” in their finery, presents a captivating tableau of Nice’s city life against the backdrop of the shimmering Mediterranean.

As you walk, your guide will highlight key landmarks, such as the Negresco Hotel and the art-deco Palais de la Méditerranée, narrating intriguing tales of the city’s belle époque era.

Day 24: The Charms and Splendors of Nice

Day two in Nice introduces you to the authentic soul of the city – Vieux Nice (Old Town). This district is a labyrinth of narrow, meandering alleys flanked by ochre-hued buildings, with vibrant markets, enticing shops, and baroque churches nestled in its nooks and crannies.

As you delve deeper into this historical quarter with your guide, you’ll discover hidden gems and learn fascinating anecdotes from its kaleidoscopic history.

The Matisse Museum

After lunch, your cultural exploration of Nice continues with a visit to the Matisse Museum. This homage to the artistic genius of Henri Matisse, who spent nearly four decades in Nice, provides an immersive journey through his artistic evolution. The museum’s extensive collection encapsulates Matisse’s diverse artistic styles and mediums, offering an unparalleled insight into his life and work.

Evening Serenade: The Jazz Notes of Nice

As dusk sets in, the city’s vibrant music scene beckons. Immerse yourself in an evening of live jazz at one of Nice’s renowned music venues. The city has a rich history of jazz, with the annual Nice Jazz Festival being one of the highlights of its cultural calendar. As the soulful notes fill the air, reflect on your experiences in Nice, a city that dances gracefully between its historical roots and contemporary charm.

Day 25: Day Trip to Monaco

Your 25th day will be spent exploring the glitzy city-state of Monaco. Known for its luxurious casinos, yacht-lined harbor, and prestigious Grand Prix, Monaco is a playground for the rich and famous.

Your guide will lead you through its glamorous streets, highlighting iconic sights like the Prince’s Palace, the Casino de Monte-Carlo, and the opulent Opera House.

The Iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo

Begin your day of exploration in the glitzy and glamorous Principality of Monaco with a visit to the legendary Casino de Monte-Carlo.

An architectural masterpiece of the Belle Époque, the casino encapsulates Monaco’s grandeur and opulence. As your guide leads you through its ornate rooms filled with frescoes, sculptures, and an astonishing array of gaming tables, they will relay captivating tales of fortunes won and lost within these hallowed halls.

While here, don’t miss the chance to admire the lavish Opera de Monte-Carlo, designed by renowned architect Charles Garnier.

The Oceanographic Museum of Monaco

Venture to the Oceanographic Museum perched dramatically on the cliffside overlooking the Mediterranean.

A temple dedicated to the sea, this institution has been enchanting visitors for over a century. Accompanied by your guide, delve into the wonders of marine life, from the smallest plankton to the fearsome shark. Don’t forget to marvel at the museum’s magnificent facade, a striking blend of Baroque Revival and Art Nouveau architecture.

The Exotic Gardens and Observation Cave

Nestled on a cliffside, the Exotic Garden of Monaco is home to thousands of rare succulent and cacti species from the world’s arid regions.

As your guide shares insights into the garden’s remarkable collection, enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Monaco and the azure Mediterranean Sea.

Also, take a moment to explore the Observation Cave, a prehistoric underground grotto filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites.

The Royal Palace and Changing of the Guard

Your Monaco experience wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Prince’s Palace, the official residence of the Sovereign Prince of Monaco.

As you explore the palace’s opulent State Apartments with your guide, discover a fascinating blend of architectural styles reflecting Monaco’s rich history. Be sure to time your visit to witness the traditional Changing of the Guard ceremony, a spectacle of pomp and pageantry.

Return to Nice in the evening with your private driver.

Day 26: Day Trip to Antibes and Cannes

Discover Antibes’ rich history and vibrant cultural scene in its old town and Picasso Museum before stepping onto Cannes’ red carpet along the stunning La Croisette.

The day culminates with a serene sunset cruise, where you’ll relish the breathtaking views of the glimmering coastline.

Charm of Antibes

Welcome the day with an exciting visit to the quaint town of Antibes, beautifully tucked between the cities of Nice and Cannes.

Boasting a rich history, golden sandy beaches, and a vibrant cultural scene, Antibes will leave you bewitched. Start your tour at the heart of Antibes’ history – its old town. As your guide navigates through the labyrinth of narrow, winding lanes, listen to enchanting tales of yesteryears and the town’s metamorphosis into a modern cultural haven.

Your journey through Antibes’ history culminates at the Château Grimaldi, which now houses the renowned Picasso Museum. Inside this historic castle, witness an impressive collection of Picasso’s works, showcasing his indomitable spirit and artistic evolution.

Cannes Exploration

Following a satisfying local lunch, set your sights on the glamorous city of Cannes, synonymous with its prestigious international film festival.

Your guide leads you down La Croisette, a stunning promenade fringed by towering palm trees, upscale boutiques, and imposing grand hotels. A walk down this iconic boulevard is like stepping onto the red carpet, and you can almost hear the camera shutters clicking.

Make a pitstop at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, the heartbeat of the Cannes Film Festival. If time allows, give in to the allure of Cannes’ pristine sandy beaches and take a refreshing dip in the shimmering Mediterranean Sea.

Sunset Cruise

What better way to conclude your Cannes experience than with a sunset cruise departing from the coast lined with glamorous white yachts?

Sailing along the glimmering coastline of the French Riviera, you are privy to an exclusive panorama of the coast, bathed in the soft, warm hues of the setting sun. Complement this serene spectacle with a glass of local wine, its complex notes echoing the richness of your day’s experiences.

As the cool sea breeze caresses your face and the lapping waves sing a gentle lullaby, the perfect end to your day on the Riviera unfolds.

Day 27: Leisure Day in Nice

Your penultimate day in Nice is a leisurely one. Start the day with a visit to a local market, such as the famous Cours Saleya, where you can taste local produce and purchase unique souvenirs. Alternatively, you might prefer to spend the morning relaxing on one of Nice’s beautiful beaches.

The rest of the day is at your disposal. You can choose to explore more of Nice, visit a nearby town, or simply relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel.

Savor your last night in France with a special farewell dinner at a renowned Nice restaurant. Delight in the flavors of the Mediterranean while reminiscing about the fantastic memories created during your journey.

Day 28: Departure from Nice

Your 28-day private driver-guided tour of France comes to an end. Your private driver will escort you to the airport for your departure, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the diverse and beautiful landscapes of France.

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Contact us for a bespoke month-long France itinerary

This comprehensive 28-day journey through France offers an immersive experience of the country’s rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the iconic landmarks of Paris to the world-renowned vineyards of Burgundy and Champagne, from the gastronomic capital of Lyon to the sun-soaked French Riviera, this itinerary has been crafted to ensure a once-in-a-lifetime French adventure.

At Luxury France Tours, we understand that each traveler is unique, and so are their preferences. We are happy to tailor this itinerary to suit your interests and desires. Whether you wish to spend more time exploring art museums, historic sites, vineyards, or coastal towns, our team of experts will work closely with you to design a bespoke itinerary that aligns with your preferences.

We invite you to contact the team at Luxury France Tours for a complimentary bespoke itinerary. Let’s craft your dream vacation to France together, a journey that will meet and exceed your expectations. Bon voyage!

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Meet your personal tour planner

Salut from France! I’m Debbie, founder of Luxury France Tours.

Having developed into a Francophile on a trip to the French Alps many years ago while still in school, I moved to France after a career traveling the world led to me meeting my (now) French Husband in Johannesburg. I created Luxury France Tours as a way of sharing my love of France & igniting this passion in others.

Email Debbie

[email protected]

+1 (856) 888-4286

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Discover the best of French life with this spectacular France itinerary. Start your trip in beautiful Paris and let the train carry you down to the sunny Mediterranean, while cruising through hillside vineyards and endless lavender fields. Reserve a seat on France's TGV high-speed train for fast and comfortable journeys between major cities. Or take it easy and explore the French countryside with RET regional trains, one charming village at a time. When traveling with a Eurail Pass , you simply can't miss out on la belle France .

Itinerary in short

Cities visited in this trip:.

Click here or on the map to view this route in our Trip Planner.

For this itinerary we recommend:

• Eurail pass: France
• Travel days:  7 days within 1 month

Most of the high-speed trains in France, like the TGV and some InterCités, require reservations. These reservations are not included in your Eurail Pass. Make sure to book your seats in advance, there are limited seats available for Eurail Pass holders. It's also possible to avoid reservations all together, simply by taking regional trains . 

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Paris, France

Paris is known as the city of love, and what a lovely place it is! Take a stroll underneath the famous Eiffel Tower and have a glass of wine on the banks of the Seine river. You can do some fancy shopping on the Champs Élysées by day and visit the magnificent Paris Opera by night. The city is a haven for culture vultures, who could spend days exploring the wonderful collection of the Louvre museum . Make sure to visit the art district of Montmartre , where famous painters like Picasso, Dalí, and Van Gogh used to work. Here you'll also find the pristine white Sacré-Coeur Basilica , the second most famous church in Paris, after the hunchback's hideout - the Notre Dame .

From Paris to Versailles

Travel time:

Gare Montparnasse

Versailles, France

Versailles-Chantiers

For splendor with a capital S, visit the magnificent Palace of Versailles . A symbol of flamboyance, it was the royal palace for two centuries right up to the French Revolution. Take a stroll around the Versailles Gardens to follow in the footsteps of Louis XIV, the infamous Sun King. Inside the palace, you’ll find extravagance in every room. Don’t miss out on the Royal Apartments and the fabulous Mirror Hall (Galerie des Glaces). Visit the Hall of the Battles (Galerie des Batailles) to see France’s military history in paintings and in sculptures.

From Paris to Mont St. Michel

Reservation needed:

Reservation required

Rennes, France

Gare de Rennes

Mont St. Michel, France

Mont St. Michel

Mont Saint-Michel, France

An hour out of Rennes, just off the coast of Normandy, you'll find the tiny island of Mont Saint-Michel. It is dominated by the monastery from which it draws its name and was an important place of pilgrimage in medieval times. These days, Mont Saint-Michel is one of the major tourist attractions in France. For centuries, you could only reach the island when the tide was low, but these days a bridge connects the town to the mainland. Take a regional train from Rennes to get to Mont Saint-Michel.

From Mont St. Michel to Bordeaux

Nantes, france.

Gare de Nantes

Bordeaux, France

Gare de Bordeaux-St. Jean

The port city of Bordeaux is France’s uncontested wine capital. You’ll find many luscious vineyards and charming chateaux in the region, which have been producing wine since Roman times. If you're interested in a wine tour , by foot or by bike, beautiful Bordeaux is the perfect place for it! The city itself is rich in architectural highlights from all periods. Climb to the top of the bell tower next to Bordeaux Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-André) for a stunning view of the city. In the Musee des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux you can find a large collection of masterpieces by famous European painters.

From Bordeaux to Carcassonne

Carcassonne, france.

Gare de Carcassonne

On your way to the sunny Mediterranean, hop off the train in Carcassonne for a sight you'll never forget. The town's medieval citadel will make you believe you’ve stepped out of a time machine. Take a walk through history and visit the Chateau Comtal and the gothic Basilica of Saint-Nazaire . Stand in front of the impressive Narbonne Gate where the centuries look down upon you.

From Carcassonne to Nice

Marseille, france.

Gare de Marseille-Saint-Charles

Nice, France

The city of Nice is located on the Mediterranean coast near the Italian border. It’s one of the most popular tourist cities in France, second only to Paris. Enjoy the gentle sea breeze on the Promenade des Anglais and work on your tan on Nice’s beautiful beaches. Only twenty minutes away from Nice you’ll find the tiny city-state of Monaco . Take a daytrip there to see the yachts in the marina and the Lamborghinis in the streets. If you’re feeling lucky, you can place a bet at the famous Monte Carlo casino.

From Nice to Lyon

Avignon, france.

Gare d’Avignon Centre

Lyon, France

Lyon Part-Dieu

If you’re making your way back to Paris, the city of Lyon is the perfect stopover. For centuries now, Lyon has been known as the gastronomical capital of France. Go to a bouchon , a typical Lyonnais restaurant, to taste authentic local cuisine and have a glass of Beaujolais wine. In Lyon's bustling center, you’ll find plenty of interesting sights. Have a look inside the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and observe the city from the top of Fourviere hill. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, visit the Parc de la Tete d’Or , one of the most beautiful parks in France.

Experience France with the Eurail France Pass!  

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Ultimate South of France Itinerary: Provence + French Riviera

Home to everything from sprawling lavender fields to hilltop towns to fishing villages to the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, it’s no wonder that traveling through Provence and the French Riviera is a dream trip for many–and this south of France itinerary makes it easy to enjoy the perfect trip.

We absolutely love exploring southern France and have enjoyed a handful of road trips, train trips, and more throughout the region.

We designed this south of France itinerary for first-time visitors to the region who want a little taste of everything that Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur has to offer, from the cobblestone streets of the Luberon Valley to the glamour of Nice’s promenade.

Hoping to visit southern France and find yourself overwhelmed with village names and potential places to visit?

This south of France itinerary is for you !

Table of Contents

Where Exactly is Provence?

Getting around during your trip to southern france, how long does this south of france itinerary take, south of france itinerary note: pay attention to market days, the complete south of france itinerary, more time in southern france, where to stay in the south of france , getting to provence-alpes-côte d’azur, south of france itinerary map, best time to visit the south of france, what to pack for the south of france.

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When planning a trip to the south of France, Provence is often the first region that comes to mind–but what exactly is Provence, anyway, other than an endless collection of photos of blooming lavender fields?

Short version: Provence is part of the French administrative region of Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, which is located in southeastern France.

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is then divided into six subregions, whose names you’ll probably notice around you as you work through this south of France itinerary–Vaucluse is one example.

The bulk of this recommended south of France itinerary takes place in what is colloquially known as Provence (the southern and western part of the region).

The d estinations mentioned toward the end of the trip like Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are located along the Côte d’Azur–aka the French Riviera–in the eastern part of the region.

While the cities and towns visited throughout this south of France itinerary are generally walkable (even Nice !), you will likely need a car to get between them.

In a pinch, you can certainly complete this itinerary with a combination of buses, trains, and booked tours, but that would be far less efficient than a road trip!

A few tips on driving in southern France: budget generously for gas and tolls, book your lodging each night with the parking situation in mind, and rent the smallest car you possibly can.

We cover our tips for driving in France a lot more thoroughly in our broader France road trip guide , so be sure to check that out before taking off on your trip to southern France !

To book your rental car for the south of France, we recommend checking prices, inclusions and availability via Discover Cars .

They’ll search both local and international brands that have available cars, and allow you to compare prices, reviews, and inclusions side-by-side.

Shop rental cars for your trip to the south of France today!

We’ve structured this South of France itinerary with the assumption that you’ll be spending roughly 2 weeks in the region, and the number of days noted by each city is the minimum number of full days that we recommend spending in each spot.

In other words, when you pull into town at 7:00 PM, that doesn’t count as a “day” in the destination on this suggested route.

That’s not to say you couldn’t stay longer–you absolutely could!

Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur is an immense region that is absolutely packed with things to do, from strolling past lavender fields to perusing markets to going on adventurous hikes to relaxing on the beach, and so much more. 

There’s truly something for every interest here–and then some–so be prepared to start plotting your return visit by the halfway point through your trip!

If you have less than 2 weeks in the South of France, we recommend narrowing your focus to either the Cote d’Azur or Provence, rather than trying to squeeze both destinations into your limited time.

Perusing the open-air markets of the villages of Provence is an iconic part of any trip to the region–so make sure to structure your South of France itinerary so you don’t miss the best ones!

Most markets are open 1-3 days/week and different markets focus on different things.

Some will be about food, and others will be French flea markets/brocantes that focus on textiles, clothing, or antiques.

If you manage to time it right, on Thursdays Aix-en-Provence has three markets in town at once, so you can get the perfect experience all in one spot.

Avignon: 1 Day

Once the home of popes, Avignon is the perfect place to kick off your south of France itinerary.

Spend the day exploring the town, hitting up the impressive Papal Palace, the Pont d’Avignon, and the Les Halles Market in between wandering the streets and marveling that you’re finally in southern France!

If you have time, also consider ducking into one of the other beautiful art museums in the city.

If you’d like to get out of town for a bit in the afternoon, the 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard aqueduct is incredibly impressive and only a 30-minute drive from Avignon.

Luberon Valley: 2 Days

Ah, the Luberon Valley: this is the area that tends to come to mind immediately when someone says the word “Provence”.

All hilltop villages and rolling countryside filled with lavender fields, the Luberon Valley is absolutely stunning and a must-visit on any Provence itinerary.

It also happens to be one of our favorite corners of France and one that we love to visit repeatedly!

Be sure to visit the town of Bonnieux for some of the best views over the valley, Gordes for its impressive location built into a hilltop, Fontaine-de-Vaucluse for its lovely spring and river, Roussillon for its majestic red cliff, and Goult for its understated and quiet beauty.

Other favorites include Lacoste for its picturesque views, Menerbes for its delightful charm (if you ever read A Year in Provence , this is the town!), and Lourmarin for its idyllic beauty.

That’s merely the tip of the iceberg, of course: Sénanque Abbey and Isle sur Sorgue are just a couple of the other spots that might hold your attention during this section of your south of France itinerary.

You probably won’t have time to visit all of those–but the great thing about exploring the Luberon Valley is that going slow and savoring the journey is half the fun anyway.

Depending on how fast you tend to go and how much each village captures your heart (okay, and how much French wine you indulge in at lunch), you can comfortably visit 2-3 villages a day.

The Alpilles: 1 Day

The first two towns on your list in the Alpilles?

Les Baux-de-Provence, often considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, the former home of Van Gogh and a bit of an artistic enclave.

Both towns are absolutely lovely, but in our biased opinion, we do think that Saint-Rémy-de-Provence is slightly prettier than Les Baux-de-Provence .

However, w e do recognize that the views from Les Baux-de-Provence themselves are top-notch !

While you can whip through these highlights in a day if needed, outdoor enthusiasts–especially hikers and bikers–might prefer to set up shop in the Alpilles a bit longer.

We enjoyed Saint-Rémy-de-Provence so much the first time around that when we later returned to southeast France, we based ourselves there for almost a week!

It’s a beautiful, conveniently located place that makes an excellent addition to any France trip.

Aix-en-Provence: 1 Day

The gorgeous city of Aix-en-Provence is known for its beauty, its accessibility–this is a great place to base yourself for part of your southern France trip–and most importantly, its markets.

I’m not exaggerating when I say that the markets in Aix-en-Provence, which sell everything from flowers to fruits to fedoras, are some of the best that we’ve ever seen.

We have loaded up our backpack more than once on shopping extravaganzas here!

Though Aix-en-Provence does have daily markets, to see the markets at their biggest and best, plan to spend a day here on either a Thursday!

Tuesday and Saturday are great backup options.

Cassis + Calanques National Park: 1 Day

The adorable fishing village of Cassis is a delightful addition to any south of France itinerary.

Much smaller and prettier than nearby Marseilles, Cassis is also the perfect jumping-off point for visiting Calanques National Park.

And, w hether you want to go for a hike or simply take a boat tour past the beautiful calanques, visiting this stunning part of the French coastline is a must !

While you’re in and around Cassis, be sure to also check out to picture-perfect Port de Cassis, visit the (extremely accessible) Calanque de Port Miou, and admire the views from the Cap Canaille.

Valensole Plateau + Verdon Gorge: 1 Day

Of all the suggested stops on this south of France itinerary, this one is probably the most anticipated for many summer visitors.

T he Valensole Plateau is the iconic home to those never-ending lavender fields pictured on tourism brochures around the world !

Sure, the Luberon Valley also has stunning fields, and they’re definitely worth seeing–but in Valensole, be ready to pull your car over nearly constantly, because every field seems to be more gorgeous than the last.

Early July is considered the absolute optimal time for enjoying the lavender fields on the Valensole Plateau, though late June, the rest of July, and maybe the very beginning of August can work as well.

That being said, we have visited the Valensole Plateau outside of lavender season as well, and while it’s certainly not as magical as it is when the lavender is at its peak, it’s still a striking and beautiful part of Provence.

After you get your fill of snapping photos, head to the Verdon Gorge, home to cascading cliffs, turquoise water, the nearby Lake of Sainte-Croix, some incredible hiking, and–again for summer visitors specifically–excellent kayaking and rafting.

Though I’ve noted you can see the major sites of the area in one day here, like in the Alpilles, photographers and/or outdoor enthusiasts will probably want to spend at least a couple of days here if at all possible .

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: 1 Day

Perched high above the Mediterranean Sea along the Cote d’Azur, Saint-Paul-de-Vence is one of those destinations that we expected to enjoy but quickly move on from, but in actuality knocked us off our feet and charmed us completely.

For that reason alone, I can’t resist adding a day here to this suggested itinerary for the south of France!

Come here for a delightful combination of all the things that makes the south of France so charming , from the delicious food to the winding stone streets to the sublime views.

S tand on the medieval walls of the town, and you’ll be smitten with the views of the countryside and sea.

Stroll through the tiny cobblestone streets of the village, and you’ll feel like you’re back in the Luberon Valley.

Sit down for a fantastic French meal on a stunning terrace, and you’ll immediately feel all the glitz and glamour of the Cote d’Azur.

Oh–and definitely grab a cup of coffee at the cafe just outside the town walls.

The coffee is merely average (by impeccable French standards, anyway), and I wouldn’t take chances on the touristy food, but it’s worth sitting down just to see if the adorable corgi who passes through regularly happens to come by!

Nice + The French Riviera: 3 Days

There’s no better place to close out your south of France itinerary than soaking up the sun along the French Riviera.

As the largest city in the region and home to a good airport, glamorous Nice is the obvious final stop for your south of France trip.

That being said, it certainly doesn’t need to be your only destination along the French Riviera!

Antibes is another great option for a base in the area, and of course trips to places like Menton, Eze, and Monaco are all fabulous ways to spend a day.

(For travelers who happen to be visiting in the offseason, look up Menton’s February lemon festival !).

Of course, if all you want to do with the final days of your south of France vacation is lay on Nice’s famous beach, we certainly can’t blame you for that!

Be sure to at least make time for a quick stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, admiring the view from Castle Hill, and lunch spent diving into a plate of Nicoise salad.

If you have significantly more time than the south of France itinerary outlined here suggests, we would recommend doing one of two things.

Option 1: Beaches

With more time in southern France, you can’t go wrong with s pending a lot more time along the French Riviera, especially if you’re visiting during the high season.

Highlights like Saint-Tropez, Cannes, and Antibes would be a great place to start, but there are endless gorgeous small towns and rural beaches to choose from in the region.

Option 2: Small Town Vibes

Prefer to dive into the slower pace of village life for a few days?

After wrapping up this itinerary, pick your favorite place–maybe a tiny village like Lourmarin, maybe a city with plenty of day trip options like Aix-en-Provence, your choice–and settle into Provencal life for a while, savoring your experiences and slowly soaking up everything that makes southern France special.

The most important thing to keep in mind when deciding where to stay in the south of France?

Limit your changes in lodging.

Packing and unpacking your belongings, loading and unloading the car, checking in and out of your hotels and/or apartments… all of these things take up more time than you might initially think.

Even as European road trip veterans of sorts, we still got too excited when planning our most recent trip to France and booked ourselves into an itinerary that moved around too much–and we paid for it in exhaustion.

We’d recommend only changing lodging every 2-3 days at the absolute maximum, and structuring your trip to the south of France as a series of day trips taken from various bases instead of actually sleeping in each location.

I’ve outlined some popular, well-reviewed, and well-located options in two of the most popular bases visited during this south of France itinerary: Aix-en-Provence and Nice.

That being said, we highly recommend basing yourselves at least once in a smaller village , too!

We’ve stayed in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence and Lourmarin and absolutely loved our experiences in both.

Aix-en-Provence

Séjours & Affaires Aix-en-Provence Mirabeau — This is where we stayed when visiting Aix-en-Provence, and we loved it!

These studio apartments are within walking distance of central Aix-en-Provence and all its best markets, have access to affordable parking across the street, and are very clean and comfortable.

They’re not particularly charming, and the vibe is very “could be a modern hotel anywhere in the world”, but they absolutely get the job done for a budget or even mid-range traveler visiting Aix-en-Provence.

Having the kitchen was a huge benefit for us (especially after visiting the markets in Aix-en-Provence), and we’d be happy to stay again.

Check rates & book your stay at Séjours & Affaires Aix-en-Provence Mirabeau!

Les Quatre Dauphins — Located in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, Les Quatre Dauphins boasts light and bright decor–this is the kind of hotel that you dream of when booking a trip to the south of France!

Street parking is available nearby, and everything you could hope to visit within the center of Aix-en-Provence is at your fingertips when staying at Les Quatre Dauphins.

Check rates & book your stay at Les Quatre Dauphins!

La Maison d’Aix — This converted townhome makes the perfect luxury boutique hotel in Aix-en-Provence!

Boasting impeccable reviews–especially for the breakfast, cleanliness, and customer service at the hotel–luxury travelers will love both the creature comforts and central location of La Maison d’Aix.

Check rates & book your stay at La Maison d’Aix!

Boutique Hôtel Neptune Nice — This small hotel in central Nice is perfect for travelers hoping to stay (somewhat–Nice is pricey!) on a budget while still keeping themselves within walking distance of Nice’s best highlights.

Rooms are small, but customer service is wonderful! The hotel is known for its impeccable location, and you can’t go wrong staying here on your south of France trip!

Check rates & book your stay at Boutique Hôtel Neptune Nice!

Le Dortoir — Featuring near-perfect reviews and a crisp, bright interior, Le Dortoir is an excellent option for visitors to Nice who want to enjoy a spacious hotel room… without Nice’s top-end luxury prices.

From Le Dortoir, you’ll be able to reach all of Nice’s highlights on foot, and its fabulous customer service ratings mean that you’ll be able to ask for advice on just about anywhere you want to go!

Check rates & book your stay at Le Dortoir!

Hotel Negresco — If you’ve seen photos of the French Riviera, there’s a good chance you’ve seen photos of the iconic Hotel Negresco, with its tiled dome and bright white facade.

This is one of the most famous luxury hotels in France and has built up quite the storied history (and held a number of famous guests) since it opened in 1913–and it’s also a whimsical and wonderful place to stay today.

Located right along the Promenade des Anglais, a stay at the ever-popular and unique Hotel Negresco is not something you’re likely to forget anytime soon.

Check rates & book your stay at Hotel Negresco!

The two biggest airports in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region are Marseille and Nice, and you can easily fly into either to start your trip to southern France.

If you fly into Nice, consider completing this south of France itinerary in the opposite order that I’ve written it.

Alternatively, check the prices of flights to Geneva (on one of our trips to France, we flew into Geneva, spent a few days in the delightful city of Annecy , and then drove to Avignon to start exploring Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur) .

And, of course, there’s always Paris!

You can easily take a train from Paris to Nice, Marseille, Avignon, or Aix-en-Provence, but be sure to account for that cost and travel time when planning your southern France itinerary!

Shop train tickets from Paris to the south of France today!

Take This Map With You! Click each highlight to pull up the name of the destination. To save this map to “Your Places” on Google Maps, click the star to the right of the title. You’ll then be able to find it under the Maps tab of your Google Maps account! To open the map in a new window, click the button on the top right of the map.

Each season brings with it a reason to visit the south of France!

Unlike many other places, though, traveling during the high (read: summer) season here comes with enough advantages that unless you’re entirely allergic to crowds and high prices, I’d recommend planning your trip then.

Here are some quick pros and cons of completing this south of France itinerary in each season.

Summer is the best time to visit the south of France if you’re hoping for a classic trip.

The lavender fields will be blooming (July is the best time to aim for, though you might be lucky and still find some fields in early August), the beaches will be warm and lovely, and the sun will (most likely) be shining.

The downsides?

Everyone else also thinks this is the best time to visit the south of France, so prices will be high and crowds will be large.

While you’ll experience a bit more rain than in the summer, fall can be a lovely time to visit the south of France if you’re looking for reduced crowds and prices while still experiencing quite a bit of sunshine and some lovely markets.

Except for perhaps in the very early fall during a hot year, though, you likely won’t want to swim during this time of year, and of course, there won’t be any lavender around.

Winter is very quiet in the south of France, and if you visit during this time, expect to find some businesses (including accommodation) closed.

Winter definitely isn’t an ideal time to be experiencing this south of France itinerary, but if cold weather and closed businesses are a worthy trade for rock-bottom prices and a lack of crowds, winter might be an option for your trip!

Plus, as a bonus, Provencal Christmas traditions (and markets!) are lovely.

We love the south of France in the spring, and would happily visit in the spring again.

Spring brings increased sunshine and temperatures, and businesses start to wake back up after the long winter. 

Spring is also an excellent time of year to be exploring Provencal markets, something that we have taken full advantage of when visiting during this time of year.

And sure, there isn’t lavender, but you do get to enjoy wisteria, which is the next-best thing!

If you come during spring, though, pack for varying temperatures, and definitely bring plenty of layers to guard against the viciously cold mistral winds that whip through the region during this time of year.

Books About the South of France — What’s better to add to your packing list than a book about the region you’re visiting?

Provence in particular has spawned countless novels and memoirs–if you’re looking for an excellent starting point, Peter Mayle’s A Year in Provence is a classic.

Travel Insurance — We don’t ever suggest traveling without insurance–anything can happen anywhere, and this is definitely a case of better safe than sorry.

We use and recommend Safety Wing for trips to the south of France.

Travel Adaptors for France — If you’re coming from outside of Europe, you’ll definitely need adaptors for your electronics.

Pacsafe — We can’t recommend our Pacsafe enough: this travel safe is affordable, sturdy, easy to pack, and will help keep your valuables safe in your hotel room (not that you should need to worry much about theft in France, but it’s better to be safe than sorry!).

Bring a small pack of tissues, toss them in your day bag, and you won’t have to worry about it.

Having these saved me more than once during our last trip to France!

Tote Bag — Trust me: you’ll want a very sturdy reusable bag with you when you visit Provencal markets!

Hand Sanitizer — We’ve never been sorry to have this floating around in our day bag.

Swiss Army Knife — Want to open wine bottles in your hotel room, slice cheese from the market, or cut up that baguette from the bakery?

You’ll be so glad you brought a Swiss Army Knife along for your south of France vacation!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

42 thoughts on “Ultimate South of France Itinerary: Provence + French Riviera”

This is such a great guide! I love that you added books about the South of France as well. My husband & I just relocated to Amsterdam and we are planning a trip here for early July. Do you have any 2020 specific tips or anything you think might be closed or different?

Thank you so much, Mercedes! I wish I could offer some 2020 specific advice, but everything has been developing and changing so quickly that it’s hard to predict from one day to the next! Outdoor dining and activities will definitely be your best bets, but luckily, that’s generally where you’ll find the best of southern France anyway!

I loved reading this! I do have a question for you. I am interested in going to the South of France but would like to stay in a house or villa that we would use as home base, but do day trips to various areas. Is this possible to do? if so what area would be the best to stay? I am just starting my research and I was so happy to come across your blog. Any input or advice would be so appreciated. Right now I am thinking around 10 days but could extend a little if necessary.

Yes, that would absolutely be possible, and in fact is a great way to see the area. You can’t day trip everywhere from one base, but you can sure see a lot!

Personally, if I were renting a villa I’d look somewhere in the Luberon Valley, so near villages like Gordes or Bonnieux. From there, you can reach the southern coast (we highly recommend Cassis in the surrounding area) on a day trip, as well as the Valensole Plateau, Avignon, Aix en Provence, etc.

If you also want to see Nice and the immediate surrounding area, you’d want to move into different lodging for that. 🙂

Thank you so much Kate for getting back to me. You have now given me a starting point in planning my trip! I will be in touch as I plan! I am happy that I stumbled across your site.

Love your travels. We follow your travels and learned much from you when we did the 3-week family trip to the Czech Republic, Austria, Germany and Italy in summer of 2019. (Family of 4 with two college-age boys) Thank you. Scratch last year, ugh…

Question.. How do you think things are looking for an August 2021 visit to the south of France and Barcelona? Using Aix as a home base while in France. Splitting 2 weeks up between Provence and Barcelona… (a little of each) thx

Thank you so much, Kevin! So glad we could help a couple of years ago.

I wish I knew exactly what the situation was going to look like in August–it seems likely that some travel will be open by then (both France and Spain have mentioned a desire to open to vaccinated tourists this summer), but as for what that will look like, no clue.

I’d recommend booking things with as flexible as cancellation policies as possible. I’d also only recommend booking one country right now–whichever is your priority–and then giving it another couple of months to see how easy it will be to travel between the two (will you need to test or isolate, etc).

Anecdotally, borders just officially opened between all Spanish regions for Spanish residents and citizens this week, and France is experiencing a notoriously long and expansive list of restrictions. Could things be 100% normal by then? Maybe, but I’d bank on a contingency plan or two.

A bit long-winded, I know, and will likely be dated advice within a week, but that’s the best I can offer now! On a personal note, we’re planning to visit Europe this summer but stick to one country for ease/to limit the risks of things going wrong… at least that’s the plan as of today!

Hi, We are American citizens visiting Portugal and plan on flying to Nice (early July) to see French Rivera from there. Do you think things are opening up? Thanks,

I wish we knew! Things are definitely more open than they were a couple of months ago, but I’d say it’s still a bit of a gamble to plan on a trip to two countries right now. In theory, there’s supposed to be more news from the EU on this front June 7, but we’ll see!

Hi Kate, I really enjoyed reading your post. We are planning a trip to southern France (flying into Nice) in mid-July for our long-awaited honeymoon! We have about 2 weeks. What are your thoughts about 5 days in the French Riviera, 5 days in Provence, and then 3 days in Paris. Does this seem too rushed? I know you suggested 14 days in Provence and the French Riviera but we’ve never been to Paris! Thanks 🙂

That sounds lovely, and congratulations on your marriage! Your itinerary will leave you tired at the end, but it’s definitely realistic. 🙂

I’d recommend basing yourselves in one place in each the French Riviera and Provence to cut down on travel days that will eat into your exploring, aiming to only stay in 3 hotels/rentals during your honeymoon.

If you haven’t read it, we highly recommend checking out our 3 days in Paris itinerary as well: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/3-days-in-paris-itinerary/

Hi Kate! I loved discovering your site! My husband and I are fully vaxed and can’t wait to start travelling overseas again! Lots of missed celebrations…so our first planned trip is to France in September, I grew up there and can’t wait to share it with him. We’re driving from Paris south, areas I want to specifically hit; Bordeaux, Nice/Cannes & Montpellier and then driving back to Paris. We have two weeks, would love to get some route& sightseeing suggestions from you. Merci!

Thank you so much, Crystina!

Sadly we haven’t been to Bordeaux or Montpellier yet (hopefully soon!). Nice is fantastic–we highly recommend visiting Eze and Vence when in the area as well. Both are gorgeous small towns with excellent views. I’m not sure if you’re planning inland at all, but the Verdon Gorge is incredible and is a couple of hours from Cannes.

You are covering a lot of ground in two weeks, especially with Paris too. If you’re only planning on visiting the city of Bordeaux, you may want to consider taking the fast train from Paris to Bordeaux and then from Bordeaux to Montpellier to speed things up, and then only rent a car in the southeast. Just food for thought!

Hello, this is simply superb, thank you very much for sharing this. This is exactly the itinerary I plan to follow next month, and I just have one question. I know you have mentioned Aix-en-Provence and Nice as two potential bases for the itinerary but I understand that may not be enough (i.e. not everything in your itinerary can be done has day trips from these 2 bases alone), and you also seem to have suggested 2 days in Luberon valley. So can you suggest a list of all the places we should use as our bases (overnight stays) so that we can cover all these places and yet not be packing/unpacking every other day? Many thanks in advance.

Hi Ricardo,

It really depends on your personal tastes–some people prefer to move around, and others prefer to stay in one base. For the Luberon Valley, all the major towns such as Gordes and Roussillon have beautiful places to stay, but you’ll want to book in advance as they’re mostly small, boutique properties. We personally explored the Luberon from a base of Aix-en-Provence.

Thank you Kate, much appreciated.

Hi We are thinking of spending 1 week in Lyon and 1 week in Porto to relax and at the same time visit the sights in and around in Sept/Oct 22. Do you have any suggestions for some can’t miss day trips from Lyon? Thank you

Sounds like a wonderful trip!

From Lyon, I highly recommend a day trip to Annecy! Here’s our post on it: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-annecy-france/

Dijon is another great option, though I haven’t had a chance to visit yet.

So helpful! My daughter will be doing a course through SCAD in Lacoste in December and I will join her around the 15th to travel a bit before she comes home. I know it is not the best time of year, but excited to go anyway. I am wondering if you have a “1 week don’t miss” version and anyway to print your itineraries. Thank you!!

December may not be a traditional time to be in Provence, but it is lovely!

I’d consider skipping the Riviera and sticking to the areas surrounding the Luberon Valley since you’re short on time and visiting in winter.

Be sure to seek out the Christmas markets–a fun bonus of a winter trip. I know Aix-en-Provence and Avignon are supposed to have lovely ones, and I’m sure the smaller cities and towns will have plenty too.

Sadly I don’t have a printable version of our itineraries yet, but I hope to create them in the future!

My family would like to spend one month in South France visiting beautiful villages! Where would you suggest for us to base and in how many locations? Could to suggest some of the villages to visit? Is Spring (June) a good time or Summer is a better season?

Thanks and much Appreciated for your help!

Hi Han! Sounds like a wonderful trip.

June is a wonderful time to visit Provence, but I’d aim for the end of the month and into July if you want to catch the lavender fields at their best.

For a month, I’d probably base yourselves for 2 weeks in one of the villages in the Luberon Valley (or Aix-in-Provence if you prefer more of a city feel), and half in one of the cities on the French Riviera!

Hello, What a great source of information-so very helpful in planning our trip which begins in Avignon on July 31. Would it make sense for us to stay between Luberon Valley, Valensole and Verdon Gorge so that we have a single base while visiting both of those areas before we head down to Nice? If so, can you recommend a particular town or inn? Second question, it sounds like we may miss the lavender fields in bloom! If that is a highlight of those areas and there is so much to see elsewhere too, should we skip Luberon Valley since we are already squeezing quite a lot in?

Thanks so much, Mimi!

You can use one base in a pinch, but that’ll mean a lot of driving each day. I’d recommend maybe one base in the Luberon and then one between Valensole/Verdon Gorge.

The Luberon Valley is a stunning place, and I personally think it’s absolutely worth visiting with or without lavender! As a silver lining, if the lavender is gone some of the crowds will disperse also. 🙂

I love and admire your site and insights. I will be part of a group of 8 women, arriving in Paris in October for one week. We’d like to head visit the small towns/villages of the south of France. Do you have a one week recommendation that begins and ends in Paris, in October? We’ve been thinking of perhaps hiring a van and driver. Thank you so much. Ellen

Hi Ellen! Unfortunately, I don’t, but off the top of my head, I’d consider maybe Paris – Luberon Valley – Paris.

It’d be a busy itinerary, but the Luberon Valley has a high concentration of darling Provencal villages so you can see several in quick succession.

If your group is comfortable with it, I’d look into potentially taking a train from Paris to Aix-en-Provence or Avignon and then hiring a driver for the Provence portion.

Alternatively, if you drive down, you could add a day in the Loire Valley (a bit out of the way but beautiful) or even a lesser-visited city like Dijon.

Hope you guys have a wonderful trip! France with girlfriends sounds delightful.

Hello Kate Thank you so much for the detailed itinerary. I am meeting my daughter in Paris and plan to travel via train to Nice and hit some of your highlighted spots in reverse. We would like to end in aix-en-Provence and possibly Avignon. See as much of the French Riveria as we can then head towards Avignon. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Dominique! Near the French Riviera, hilltop towns like Eze and Saint-Paul-de-Vence are well worth adding in to mix up beach towns if you’re looking for great views. I also wouldn’t miss the Valensole Plateau as you’re heading toward Aix-en-Provence if you’re visiting during summer/lavender season.

Hello Kate, Thank you for such a helpful article! Great info! We will be coming from the U.S. in Sept. & only have 18 days, including travel, for France & Sicily. We were thinking of flying in to Paris (assuming cheapest, easiest), only staying1-2 night there. Really not interested in the city (no doubt fun, but save for another time). Would really only care to see Eiffel Tower at night, if that, on this trip. Planned to then drive to southern France & fly out of Nice to Sicily. Mainly wanted to see cute small towns & pretty scenery, not into the big cities for this trip. Several questions. Would you just skip Paris & fly into another city, or not that big of a deal to start there & drive, or take a train from Paris to the south & then get car? Sounds like we would like to be sure to see Aix-en-Provence, Gorge, Eze & Vence. Is that all doable from one location, or see part from Nice, as I imagine will need to stay there a night or two to be in the area to catch a flight out. Last, how many days would you choose for France & how many for Sicily? Also, enjoyed your Sicily blog! Obviously not enough time to see both in detail, but thought we could get a basic overview & know if there was somewhere we want to return with more time. Thank you so much for your thoughts!

Sounds like a magical trip–we actually flew from Nice to Sicily ourselves the first time we visit, and it worked out great.

If you’re not interested in seeing Paris on this trip, I’d definitely recommend checking flights to Nice as well, as that will save you time. If you do end up flying into Paris, definitely don’t drive to Provence/the Riviera, but instead book the fast train from Paris (probably to Aix-en-Provence). It’s much faster! However, book tickets in advance as prices for high speed trains increase as the date of travel gets closer.

Aix and Nice are both pretty big–not Paris big, but definitely small towns. For small towns I’d recommend the Luberon Valley–truly gorgeous and very typically “Provencal”. It’s where Gordes is as well as places like Bonneiux, Lourmarin, Roussillon, etc.

I’d think of that area–Aix + small Provencal villages–as a separate section from the Riviera. You’ll want one base there, and the one base on the coast.

Vence and Eze are both easy day trips from Nice, but if small towns are what you’re after, you may consider staying in one of them instead of Nice!

With 18 days you have some flexibility. I’d give Sicily a week minimum–with that timeline, you can cover the east coast (Taormina, Siracusa, etc.) at a pretty leisurely pace and enjoy some beach time!

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip! September is such a beautiful time to visit. 🙂

Hi! I love your site. I am having a hard time deciding where to go. I am a single woman and always travels solo to major cities like Paris, Rome etc. This time I want to go to the south of France but not sure the best way to do that if I am traveling solo. I will be in Paris then want to go to the South. I went to Cannes as a child with my family but obviously this trip will be different. I’d like a few beach dates where I can swim in the ocean, sit under an umbrella (basically being catered too lol) and then go out to fun dinners, walk around, shop (love antique markets etc.) Can you help me narrow it down if I am there for one week? Should I rent a car by myself or is that not recommended? Is it scary driving the roads? I also don’t want to do too much traveling and instead chill in a few cities and talk it all in!

Your help would be awesome. Oh, I’m thinking early/mid September…

I think you’ll definitely be able to find what you’re looking for.

Scary driving is a matter of perspective of course, but for confident drivers, the Riviera isn’t too bad! If you want to stay in only a handful of locations and have a more leisurely trip, though, you probably don’t need a car.

Most of the major beach towns/cities will have what you’re looking for, including Nice. You may want to look into Menton, too!

The hill towns about the Riviera are excellent for wandering around, restaurants, etc, but of course, you’re missing the beach.

Basing yourself in Nice and taking day trips (on non-beach days!) to places like Eze, St-Paul-de-Vence, Monaco, etc, might suit you perfectly.

Hello Kate, I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog posts about all your wonderful travels. My husband and I are looking at going to southern France for a week or two in July 2023. … Celebration of my 70th birthday and my wedding anniversary in 45 years. We were looking at an Airbnb in La Ciotat. Is that a good place to stay to have opportunity for day trips? We also considered staying in Provence for a few days too. Is there somewhere you would suggest. We can get another Airbnb or a hotel. Someone suggested Avignon, but wondered if outside the city would be better. We will rent a car. WE are novice travelers to France and are really seeking guidance on our first journey. We just dont want to do a river cruise or a tour group really.

Happy Birthday and Anniversary! France sounds like a fantastic way to celebrate both. 🙂

We haven’t stayed in La Ciotat, but it looks darling (its reputation is for being a bit quieter, which can make a nice base) and is fairly close to Cassis, which we love: https://www.ourescapeclause.com/things-to-do-in-cassis-france/

For day trips right around the coast, it will undoubtedly work. I’d also recommend looking into a boat trip around the Calanques!

If you want to spend time both on the coast and inland, I’d recommend choosing a second base as well.

For a more classic Provence feel with small farming villages, lavender fields (July is a great time to catch the blooms!), etc, we can’t recommend the Luberon Valley more highly. Villages like Gordes, Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, Roussillon, etc, are an absolute delight, and the fun of the region is driving between them and visiting several in one stay.

Avignon makes for an excellent base as well, as do the villages near the Alpilles (we adore Saint-Rémy-de-Provence), but the Luberon is the most classic option.

All of the inland places I just listed are within day-tripping distance of each other, though, so you don’t necessarily have to pick and choose.

The absolute best lavender fields are over at the Valensole Plateau, which is a bit of a drive but worth it if you want to see the biggest fields.

Hello Kate, I’ve really enjoyed reading your blog posts about all your wonderful travels. My husband and I are looking at going to southern France for six days in June 2023. … We are doing the River Rhine cruise and decided to visit southern France after the cruise. We should be arriving in Nice on the 26th of June. We were thinking of staying in Nice and visit the surrounding areas and then going to Provence region before flying back to California. Do you have any recommendations for hotels we can check out for the two areas and also if there are any small tour groups (no river cruise 🙂 ) you think would be good to use since we do not have a lot of time this time around.

That’s a beautiful time to be in southern France–it’ll definitely be busy, but not quite the peak summer crowds of July and August yet!

We have recommended hotels for some of the most popular places to stay in the area under the “Where to Stay” section above, including Nice! Hotel Negresco is the most iconic choice for its history and location alone.

If you’re looking for a small group tour, I’d look for day trips to the Luberon Valley area, probably leaving from Aix-en-Provence or perhaps Avignon. If you’d like to see several of Provence’s most iconic villages without driving, it’s a fun way to do so! We’ve always driven ourselves, but if we were planning to book a day trip like that, we’d look on Get Your Guide, which we use regularly.

thank you for the wonderful blog! I am definitely going to Provence this spring/summer and already imagining sounds, colours and vibes of the beautiful villages and small towns that you described. I am thinking, is it possible to arrange a multi-day round trip in Province, to avoid renting a car? There are lots of half-day or full day trips, but some round one lasting for few days would be perfect, like we did in Scotland. What is, in your opinion best alternative to renting a car? Thanks& enjoy your trips in 2023!

I’m sure they exist, though I’m not personally familiar with any! Rick Steves, for example, has a tour that touches on Provence but it doesn’t really focus on it.

If you search “Provence small group tours”, that’s where I found the results I think you’re looking for (as opposed to “Provence tours” that mostly suggests day trips). I can’t personally vouch for any of the companies that pop up in those results, though.

All of that being said, if there’s not a particular reason (not confident driving, etc) that you want to avoid a rental car, you will undoubtedly spend less and have more flexibility by driving yourself!

Driving in Provence is fairly simple–GPS directions work well, and you park outside the historic centers so you don’t have to worry about driving on tiny roads.

Hope you guys have a fantastic trip!

Hi Kate, We are going to Provence and the Riviera for a short 5 days. I would love to see best of both. I’ll be arriving in Avignon around noon on the 20th July and thinking of staying in either Saint Remy or Bonnieux or anywhere in those regions that make it easy to see the main villages and possibly fit in a hike. I would love to see a vineyard and maybe olive grove/mill and thinking of heading to either Aix en Provence or Cassis for the afternoon of 22nd. I see there is a vineyard/olive mill near aix so could go there is that makes more sense. Hoping to do the boat ride in calanques probably morning of 23rd and then head to Nice as a base until 25th…. Late flight at 10pm that day. It would be helpful if you can help me figure out the best route to take and where to base myself in Provence. Worried it’s too busy in Avignon and Aix with the festivals.My husband loves Rose wine so hoping to do a tasting wherever possible. Only have to do one vineyard. We have a 13 year old so have to really balance all the activities. Probably some watersport beach time in the riviera.

Hi Kinnari,

Honestly I think that’s a very long to-do list for 5 days, so I’d recommend cutting back where you can!

If you’re not too particular about which villages you see in Provence, I’d consider focusing your time there around the Luberon Valley, as you’ll be able to see several different villages fairly quickly.

From there, you can head down to Cassis, spend most of the 23rd there, and then drive to Nice for the night, which gives you the 24th and maybe part of the 25th on the Riviera.

I’d only prioritize Avignon and Aix if you want to see them in particular–they’re lovely places, but if you’re hoping for a smaller village feel with hiking options, I don’t think they’re worth prioritizing on this trip.

We have 14 days in Provence /south of France Fly in and out of nice We want to go to Gordes de Vernon Aix de Provence Avignon Arles Moustiers Luberon villages Cassis Antibes at the end We want to do wine tastings and markets Is it a good idea to spend 3 or 4 nights in a few places to use as base Thanks

Hi Maureen,

Yes, that definitely works! I’d probably choose 3 bases in your case, to give yourself enough time in each surrounding area while also not having to travel too far for day trips.

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The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in the South of France Itinerary

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Planning a south of France itinerary is one of the highlights of visiting this incredible country. France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and, although many visitors will stay in Paris, plenty head down to spend 7 to 10 days in the south of France to soak up the sun on the pristine beaches, visit the stunning mountain ranges or learn about French culture on a city break.

A south of France itinerary can be extremely diverse, taking you to all of the above, or allowing you to pick and mix as you please. Whichever stops you end up choosing, you’re sure to have a fantastic holiday surrounded by lush natural areas, historic locations or beautiful city centres.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the South of France?

To explore the whole of the south of France, from the Atlantic coast of Bayonne to the Mediterranean principality of Monaco , you would need at least two weeks to freely explore each wonderful town and city en route without rushing. However, to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline and its neighbouring cities, towns and quaint villages, 10 days in the south of France is ideal.

Although, if you want to concentrate your stops in one area, such as Languedoc-Roussillon or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, you can spend a very pleasant 7 days in the south of France, without spending too much time on the road. 

Part of the fun of a south of France road trip is seeing the sights from a car window and stopping when your interest is piqued by a looming château or spectacular view. So it can be a great idea to plan a few days of activities but leave yourselves a day or at least an afternoon here and there for travelling and taking in the scenery.

Equally, if you prefer not to drive and would rather take trains or buses, you can pack picnics for your journeys and enjoy the views; you may still be on the move rather than on your feet or a sun lounger, but it’s a great way to make the most of every moment of your holiday.

The itinerary for the south of France outlined below covers a range of highlights to be found in the area. However, if you’re keen to dig deeper into various regions, make sure to check out our Provence itinerary or our French Riviera itinerary if you’ve already decided where you want to go.

Getting To & Around the South of France

Driving tends to be the best mode of transport to get around the south of France, as you’re then free to move around according to your own schedule, and there are many free (or at least cheap) places to park to be found in most cities and towns across the country.

All of the airports and city centres will have rental car companies where you can find various vehicles for reasonable prices, although it’s advisable to book in advance to guarantee you get the car of your choice.

The French have an expression that roughly translates to “there may not be work, but there are always roadworks”, so if you’re planning a south of France road trip itinerary outside of the summer months, it’s useful to have Google Maps open to have live traffic information for your journey so you can take alternative routes where necessary.

However, from June to September, as both French and foreign tourists travel around the country, there tend to be very few problems on the road, and you can almost guarantee excellent road surfaces to make your car journeys significantly more comfortable.

What’s more, the south of France has an excellent reputation for hitchhiking, so if you’re feeling adventurous and have a loose schedule for your trip to the south of France, this can be a great way of travelling around and getting some insider information about the hidden gems. Just make sure to follow safety precautions.

Getting to the south of France in the first place is also very simple as there are many airports located all along the south.

There are major airports in Toulouse, Montpellier, Marseille and Nice, so you can start your journey easily from any of these cities, although you can also arrive from the UK and other neighbouring European countries in the smaller cities of Carcassonne, Nîmes, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Toulon. You can book airport pickups here.

Each of these cities also has excellent public transportation, so you can visit much of the south of France by train. However, if you’d like to spend time in more rural villages and historic sites, there may not be trains and only a few buses each day, so having your own car is definitely advisable.

Most of the stops on our southern France itinerary will be well-known towns and cities that can easily be accessed by train or bus, but there are a couple of more out-of-the-way destinations that will be harder to reach without a car. So try to choose the best stops for your own south of France itinerary accordingly. You can view train and bus schedules here.

7 to 10 Day South of France Itinerary

From cities and towns to lakes and villages, our southern France itinerary will show you the best that France has to offer, without spending too long on the road so you can make the most of the bright sunshine, bustling streets and beautiful landscape.

Day 1 – Toulouse

Toulouse is a great place to start your 7 days in the south of France, as the airport has excellent connections to major European cities like London , Paris , Amsterdam and Munich , without being so busy that you spend your whole first day waiting at border control.

You can rent a car from the airport to start your road trip, or take the tram into the city for just a few euros and arrive in the centre ready to explore.

The centre of Toulouse has a wonderful large square lined on one side by the beautiful pink and white building Le Capitole that houses the town hall and the theatre of Toulouse.

This square is a great welcome into the city, leading off into winding streets full of boutiques and restaurants showing off the famous red brick of the region and the amazing cuisine.

You can wander around the city and discover the other incredible red brick structures like the Saint-Sernin Basilica and the Jacobins Convent with its enormous stained glass windows and occasional evening light show on the exterior façade. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  a food tour  if you want to learn more about the area from a guide.

The Canal du Midi also flows through Toulouse, as does the River Garonne, which provides a lovely place for an afternoon stroll, admiring the Occitan architecture, sunbathing on the steps leading to the river and sipping a cocktail on one of the floating bars. Plus, if you look closely under the Pont Neuf, you can spot one of James Colomina’s curious little red statues…

As a city, you can find plenty of places to stay within Toulouse from budget hotels and B&Bs to luxury apartments. Or, for a more rural gîte, you can head slightly further out of the city to enjoy nature, which is particularly beautiful around the Tarn and Garonne Rivers.

Where to Stay in Toulouse

Hôtel Héliot – Mid-range visitors to Toulouse will love this cool, 3-star hotel. Located in the centre of the city, they have a range of lovely rooms along with a great breakfast on offer in the morning. Click here to check availability

Boutique Hotel SOCLO – This boutique hotel is an excellent option for those after a luxury stay in Toulouse. They have a range of plush rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for exploring all the city has to offer. Click here to check availability

Appartements Design Hypercentre – If you’d prefer to have your own flat while in the South of France, then these apartments in Toulouse are a great choice. They come fully furnished and have a great, central location. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Toulouse hotels!

Day 2 – Carcassonne

Moving further south from Toulouse, you come across the amazing walled city of Carcassonne – the perfect place for a day trip. You can visit independently or go on an organised trip such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

Having been occupied since 500 BCE, this land was transformed by the Romans into a walled city which was further enhanced in the 12th century to create the incredible 3 km of ramparts we see today.

You can see the 52 towers rising in the distance as you approach by car, train or plane and the inside of the city takes you back in time with its traditional French shops selling everything from sweets to swords.

In the summer, the city comes to life with jousting tournaments, battle reenactments, opportunities to learn how to write with a quill and ink and people dressed in traditional mediaeval clothing wandering around the city. It’s a great place to visit with the family, but equally interesting for anyone with an interest in history, architecture or French culture.

The highlight of Carcassonne is the mediaeval city, however, there is a more modern town on the other side of the river which has hotels, restaurants and some apartments to rent, so if you haven’t brought your campervan, this is an excellent place to stay.

Day 3 – Montpellier

Moving further south still, we get to the real entrance of the south of France: Montpellier . Located on the Mediterranean coast, the amazing city has everything, from Roman ruins and neoclassical architecture to beaches, parks and exquisite gastronomy.

Visitors can happily stroll around the streets of the city centre, coming across the main square La Comedie, named after the huge theatre on one end, where the locals gather for entertainment, or simply to pass through on their way to work.

A short walk will take you to the magnificent 17th-century Triumphal Arch and stunning 18th-century tiered aqueduct that’s still working to supply the city’s fountains with water.

If that’s not enough to entice you, Montpellier has a fantastic botanical garden, which is the oldest in France, as well as plenty of murals and trompe d’œils dotted around the city streets, making for a wonderful walking tour. You can also easily take the tram around the city if you don’t feel like walking too far, as well as to the enormous beach with wild flamingos nearby.

Montpellier is a large city and has a very popular university so you can find activities for young people around every corner, as well as cheap hotels and apartments so everyone can have the chance to explore this amazing coastal city. Even if you can only stay for 7 days in the south of France, make sure you stop by Montpellier – you won’t be disappointed!

Where to Stay in Montpellier

Hôtel Royal – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Montpellier is a fantastic choice for those looking for a central place to stay in this French city. They have a range of chic rooms to choose from along with breakfast on offer each morning. Click here to check availability

Hôtel Oceania Le Métropole – This chic hotel is an excellent choice for those after a luxury option while staying in Montpellier. They have an excellent, central location along with an array of plush rooms plus many other amenities available. Click here to check their availability

Appart’City Confort Montpellier Saint Roch – If you’re keen for a self-catering option while exploring the south of France, then these apartments are a great choice. They have an array of fully-furnished flats all within easy access of all Montpellier has to offer. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Montpellier hotels!

Day 4 – Arles

Carcassonne and Montpellier were simply appetisers for history buffs, who can now rub their hands in glee at our next destination, the fabulous city of Arles . Arles is a perfectly sized town to wander around the streets and get a glimpse of the Provençal architecture and Roman ruins, namely the spectacular amphitheatre, Arènes d’Arles.

This 20,000 seater, two-tiered arena was built in 90 CE for gladiator fights and chariot races to entertain the locals and had towers added during the mediaeval era and looks unbelievably incredible today.

You can easily spend a few hours learning about the history of the structure or even watching a performance as it now hosts live music, bullfighting and other events in Summer, before heading off to experience the city’s other claim to fame: van Gogh’s house.

Having lived in the city for just a year, Vincent van Gogh created hundreds of artworks during his stay, having been greatly inspired by the natural beauty and pastel colours of the houses. Unfortunately, the house where he resided (and cut off his ear) was destroyed during the Second World War, however, you can visit a museum dedicated to the artist nearby.

Don’t miss out on the amazing and spooky Alyscamps either, with its incredible Gothic sarcophagi on either side of the ancient road leading down to a 12th-century church.

There aren’t lots of hotels within Arles city centre, however, with the Rhône River flowing through the landscape, there are some wonderful campsites and gîtes surrounded by countryside just five minutes driving out of the city. It is also very feasible to continue onto Marseille for the next few nights.

Where to Stay in Marseille

Hôtel Life Marseille VP – Mid-range visitors to Marseille will love this cool 3-star hotel in the centre of the city. They have an array of wonderful rooms to choose from, a fantastic location and plenty of other perks to ensure you have an excellent stay. Click here to check availability

La Residence Du Vieux Port – This luxury hotel in the Old Port area of Marseille is perfect for those looking for a chic and romantic place to stay in this French city. There are plentiful rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for seeing the city. Located in the Old Port area of Marseille, those looking for luxury will love this opulent boutique hotel. Click here to check availability

Vertigo Vieux-Port – Those looking for a budget option or if you’re after a great social atmosphere will love this highly-rated hostel in the Old Port area of Marseille. They have great common areas and self-catering facilities along with both dorms and private rooms available. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Marseille hotels!

Day 5 – Marseille

There’s not much to be said about the oldest and third-largest city in France that hasn’t already been said, and all of the great things you’ve heard about Marseille are true. Founded by the Greeks over 2600 years ago, the port city has seen a great deal of migration from all across the world making it a spectacularly diverse melting pot of architecture, cuisine, culture and religion.

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is a must-see place within the city, and fortunately, you can see it from all around Marseille as it towers high above the otherwise quite flat city.

On the opposite side of Marseille, close to the train station is the equally spectacular but less well-known black and white striped Cathedrale La Major, which looks particularly magnificent at sunrise when the daylight causes the domed roof to glow orange.

A short distance away is the famous fish market and port of Marseille where you can see the fishermen selling their catches, as they’ve done for centuries, and take amazing photographs with the beautiful boats in the fore and the basilica in the background.

It’s possible to spend a few days in Marseille and not get the chance to see everything, so it’s a great destination for a weekend break, but even if you’ve got 10 days in the area, you’ve got to spare one for Marseille – even if it’s just to eat seafood (or take a food tour ) and enjoy the views.

Similar to other cities in France, you can find many hotels across the city for all kinds of budgets, as well as smaller B&Bs in the suburbs.

But there’s great transportation in the city, so rather than driving in, it’s a good idea to leave your car parked by your accommodation and just take a bus in and out of the city when you need to. 

Day 6 – Gorges du Verdon

So far each destination has been easily reachable by public transport, however, it’s more difficult to reach our next stop if you’re seeing the south of France by train. But, the Gorges du Verdon is one of the most breathtaking locations in the whole of France, so if possible, you have to include it on your southern France itinerary.

This 25 km long canyon has been cut out of limestone by the brilliant turquoise Verdon River that reaches down 700 metres at its deepest and is a popular place to take a pedalo or kayak, or go hiking and even rock climbing.

You can travel through the gorge into the Sainte-Croix Lake which was created in the 1970s by flooding the small village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, later rebuilt on the banks of the lake. You can stop here for lunch in any number of delightful restaurants with mesmerising lakeside views, or bring a picnic with you to enjoy a full day out exploring the canyon and surrounding lakes.

There are several hotels in the village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon and near the small village of Boulogne, on the south side of the gorges, and you can find plenty of campsites surrounding the Sainte-Croix Lake, some with cabins that you can rent if you haven’t got your own tent.

But be wary that the Gorges du Verdon is a very popular place to stay in Summer, so you’ll need to book your accommodation well in advance. Alternatively, continue onto Cannes for the evening, where you can be based for the next few days of this itinerary. There are also a number of other places to stay on the French Riviera that are great choices.

For those who don’t want to make the drive out to the gorge, there are other great options available for this day. You could, for instance, spend another day exploring Marseille. You could also opt to take a day trip to the lavender fields and take in a hilltop village in Provence.

Another great option would be to visit the Calanques du Marseille and the village of Cassis for a gorgeous area very close to the city.

Where to Stay in Cannes

Villa Claudia Hotel Cannes – If you’re on a mid-range budget while in Cannes, then this hotel is a good choice. It has a good location for exploring the city, breakfast is available in the mornings and there is a great garden to enjoy. Click here to check availability

Hotel Splendid – This hotel is a fantastic luxury option for those looking to live the high life while on the French Riviera. They have a myriad of incredible rooms to choose from along with a great location for exploring the city and area. Click here to check availability

La Bastide de l’Oliveraie – Those after a bit of an alternative accommodation option will love these plush suites in Cannes. They have an excellent, central location and there are plenty of rooms and suites available to choose from. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cannes hotels!

Day 7 – Saint-Raphaël

Back down to the Mediterranean coast, between the picturesque but incredibly busy town of St Tropez and the large and equally popular city of Cannes , is the small yet delightful town of Saint-Raphaël.

With a small harbour, a huge cathedral and beautiful beaches, this lovely little town is a great place to spend a relaxing final day of a south of France itinerary if you’re on a week-long holiday.

The charming town is a wonderful place to wander around, perusing the little shops and soaking up the sun, but during the Summer, the town really comes to life after 7.30 pm with its famous night market! This is much different than market day in other Provençal towns.

Stalls line the boardwalk all evening, selling local products from traditional Provençal soaps and perfumes to sweet treats and jewellery, so after you’ve had your traditional fish soup, anchovy paste, stuffed peppers or Bouillabaisse, you can’t miss out on a wander around the market to bring your 7 days in the south of France to a close.

If you’ve got time, you’ve also got to check out the superb amphitheatre of Fréjus, just a ten-minute drive from Saint-Raphaël centre.

Saint-Raphaël doesn’t have its own airport, however, it’s just a 45-minute drive from Cannes Airport, or 1 hour along the coastal road so you can say your farewells to the Côte d’Azur as you head home.

If you’re staying on, you can find many different hotels and apartments to stay in for the night all along the coast, although as we head into the more glamorous coastline, you’ll notice the prices can jump up quite a bit from other properties on our itinerary.

Day 8 – Valbonne

For your eighth day in the south of France, it’s time to head away from the coastal towns and cities to experience life in a small village, and there’s none better than Valbonne.

Just north of Cannes and Antibes, you can easily reach Valbonne by car from Saint-Raphaël, or if you’re travelling on public transport you can take a bus from Cannes to Valbonne for just a few euros.

This little village may lack big landmarks and resorts, but it’s bursting with character, with charming cobbled streets leading you around the village, from quaint squares to historic churches.

This style of architecture and tiny community nestled into a valley surrounded by wilderness is archetypal of the area, so a must-visit place for anyone looking to get away from the busy cities and tourist-filled beaches to get a glimpse into the real south of France.

There are a number of wonderful places to eat, including Auberges, serving traditional dishes using produce sourced directly from the surrounding countryside to heighten your experience of rural French life. You can stay in the village, but there are only two hotels, so you’ll want to book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

However, the large city of Cannes is not far away so there will be much more choice of hotels, as well as gîtes and B&Bs dotted around the countryside if you prefer to stay in a more rural location.

Day 9 – Nice

After a day in the countryside, it’s time to get back into the city, and one of the French Riviera’s most unmissable cities has to be Nice .

With its bustling city centre full of designer shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you won’t be short of things to do as you walk from street to street, under the intriguing street lamps. But Nice isn’t your average city.

As you head out of the modern centre, you can come across the delightful old town, with more traditional boutiques and eateries, and you can even visit one of the first Russian Orthodox Cathedrals built in France, the beautiful Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice.

With its intriguing shape, red brick exterior, turquoise domed roofs and pointed turrets, it may be small but it’s well worth visiting while you’re in Nice – just remember to wear long sleeves and trousers to be allowed entry.

You can also walk up the Colline du Château to see the ruins of an old castle and a beautiful waterfall as well as have incredible views over the whole of Nice.

There’s plenty to do in the city for all ages and interests, as well as accommodation for all budgets in the city centre and further out in the suburbs. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  food tour  if you prefer to explore with a guide.

Where to Stay in Nice

Nice Garden Hotel – This is a great mid-range hotel in Nice to round out your south of France trip. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from along with a great location within easy reach of the Promenade des Anglais. Click here to check availability

Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel – If you’re looking for a luxury hotel while in Nice, then you can’t go wrong with this lovely place. They have a number of delightful rooms to choose from along with plenty of amenities to ensure you have a great stay. Click here to check availability

Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice – Located in Old Nice, these apartments are a wonderful choice for those keen for their own space in this coastal metropolis. They have a number of great flats, all equipped with everything you may need for your stay. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nice hotels!

Day 10 – Èze

Nice Airport is the best place to fly out of the south of France if you’ve come along the south coast from west to east, and fortunately, it’s not far from the wonderful village of Èze, which makes for a remarkably relaxing final day of your holiday.

Simply wander around the picturesque village with cobbled streets and stone houses, stunning views over the Mediterranean and the nearby millionaire’s playground that is Monaco.

Or, take a free tour of the renowned Fragonard perfume factory before heading to a cliffside restaurant to enjoy your final plat du jour and a crisp local vin blanc before heading home.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 10 days , there are plenty of other highlights to stop in en route.

Stop in one of the only papal seats outside the Vatican in Avignon to explore the Pope’s Palace, the famous destroyed bridge Le Pont d’Avignon and the nearby Pont du Gard for a day before visiting Arles, or continue your journey along the French Riviera to the flash principality of Monaco to see how the other half live or try your luck in the famous casino.

Or if Roman history piques your interest, stop by the incredible city of Nîmes near Arles to see a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre that gives Arles a run for its money, as well as its perfectly preserved white Roman temple La Maison Carrée.

En route from Carcassonne to Montpellier, you can also stop for a day of hiking and art in the community of Mayronnes to walk along the impressive 6 km long sculpture trail – but bring plenty of water with you as it can get very hot, especially in the height of summer.

Whether you take a south of France road trip or see the south of France by train, there is plenty to do across the whole region for all interests. Over a week or 10 days in the south, you’ll get to experience some amazing food, architecture and natural areas that will surely have you aching to get back as soon as your feet are off French soil.

Are you visiting the south of France? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Nice or St Tropez: Which French City to Visit?

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Strasbourg Itinerary

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Champagne Itinerary

About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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The Best of France: A Two Week Itinerary

France is a country that offers visitors incredible diversity. It is loved by so many and is one of the most visited countries in the world. But the majority of those people only visit Paris. This two week France itinerary aims to get you outside of Paris and exploring other equally incredible parts of the country.

My France two week itinerary covers key areas of France to give you balanced itinerary to follow taking in its physical beauty, culture, history and culinary delights. It brings together the best bits of France in two weeks so you can get a taste for this beautiful country and make the most of your precious vacation time.

If you follow this trip to a tee you’ll be driving close to 2,000 km so you’ll want a vehicle that is comfortable for both the driver and passengers, plus one that has plenty of space for your luggage (and the goodies you might pick up along the way!.

For all my car hire bookings I use and recommend Hertz . I’ve found they offer the most comparable prices, let you search and compare multiple vehicle types and they have a great customer service team who can help if you come into any unexpected troubles.

France Two Week Itinerary

Days 1 to 4 – Paris

Day 1 – Start off your two weeks in France by arriving in Paris. This itinerary assumes that you arrive in the morning giving you most of the day to start seeing the sights.

The City of Lights, Paris, is one of the most visited cities in the world and rightly so. It is dripping with amazing architecture, world class art and culture and mouth-watering food. Paris is a city for everyone and its highlights can easily be explored in just a few days.

What to See & Do in Paris

Eiffel Tower – The icon of Paris is the perfect place to start your visit. Admire the architecture of what was once the world’s tallest tower before being whisked to the top in an elevator to enjoy the most spectacular uninterrupted views of the city. Skip the queues and pre-booked your visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower here .

Arc Du Triomphe – Take a walk up the famous Champ Elysees to enjoy the approaching view of this imposing arch. Built to honour those who fought and died for France, check out the inner and outer surfaces of the Arc for the names of French war victories and generals inscribed in the stone. You can climb the steps to the top for nice views over Paris and down the avenues that run off the centre of the Arc. Avoid long queues with this pre-booked ticket to the top.

Notre Dame Cathedral – One of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the world, Notre Dame is famous for its incredible stained glass windows and for the gargoyles that guard the cathedral from above. Inside it is simply breathtaking and the view from the top allows you to get a closer look at those gargoyles, the cathedral’s roof and spires and over the city.

The Louvre – Home of the famous Mona Lisa, the world’s largest and most visited museum is spread across three wings with eight different departments and around 35,000 works of art and artifacts on display. One visit is most certainly not enough to take it all in so a little forward planning about what you want to see is a must. You might also want to nab yourself a timed entry ticket here to avoid the really long queues.

Montmartre & Sacre Coeur – For many hundreds of years the area of Montmartre has attracted artists from around the world. Today the area has a very bohemian vibe with tons of character and notorious nightlife. The most notable structure in the area is the lovely Sacre Coeur Basilica which holds services daily for locals and visitors. Make sure you enjoy the view from the area in front of the Basilica looking out over Paris. With so much interesting history in this area, a short tour with a local guide is a must!

Cruise the Seine –  Some of Paris’s best architecture and landmarks line the Seine River making a sightseeing cruise a must do (especially this evening illuminations cruise where you will see Paris sparkle!). My top tip is to hop aboard the Bateaux Mouches for a one hour cruise at night on an open top boat that will take you under all of the city’s famous bridges and past its famous sites.

Palace of Versailles – This grand chateau was once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette and is simply spectacular inside and out. Grand rooms filled with priceless works of art, furniture and antiquities on the inside and sprawling perfectly manicured gardens on the outside make this a worthy half to full day trip from the centre of Paris. As with most popular Paris attractions, having a skip the line entry ticket is a must.

Enjoy the Gardens – Paris has some really stunning gardens that are a haven from the busy streets of the city. Stroll the length of the Jardin des Tuileries from the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde or enjoy the spectacular flower displays of the Jardin du Luxembourg, just to name two of the city’s best green spaces.

Where to Stay in Paris

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities. You can also check out my whole post dedicated to places to stay in Paris here .

Budget – Hotel Marignan

Mid-Range – Hotel Le Relais des Halles

Luxury – Four Seasons Hotel George V Paris

Read More About Paris

30 Things to Do in Paris

The Best Tours in Paris for Sightseeing

The Best Day Trips from Paris

Days 5 to 6 – The Normandy Region

Drive:  Paris to Caen – approx. 2.5 hours. Leave Paris early to give yourself plenty of time to stop along the way.

Suggested Stop

Like Paris, Rouen is set on the River Seine and has a rich medieval history. In just a few hours you can easily check out the city’s Gothic Cathedral (a favourite subject for artist Monte), wander the medieval quarter and visit the site where Joan of Arc met her demise.

From its dramatic coastal landscape to its rolling green fertile hills and rich history, Normandy is one of France’s hidden gems. Visit to delve deeper into its Norman, Medieval and War Time history; taste the freshness of the regions orchids, seafood and cheese; and explore the dramatic yet charming coastal towns.

What to See & Do in Normandy

Arromanches – On the 6th of June 1944 during World War II, Allied troops stormed the beaches of Normandy beginning their victory on the Western Front. You can visit those beaches, including Arromanches, where you will see remnants of the ‘Mulberry’ harbour the troops built. Then head up to the cliff tops to the 360 Cinema to get just a small feel for what it would have been like for the troops.

American Cemetery at Colleville – Laid out over 70 hectares overlooking the beaches where the troops landed and the chalky cliffs of the Normandy coast is the largest American cemetery in the area. Start your visit in the Visitors Centre which details the mission. Then head outside to wander the 9,387 gravestones perfectly aligned on a majestic expanse of green lawn. At the end of every day you can watch the ceremony of the Lowering of the Colours to the sound of a military hymn. (Book a guided tour that includes the cemetery and other American D-Day sites.)

Bayeux Tapestry – Known to the French as La Tapisserie de la Reine Mathilde , this 230-foot long tapestry is one of the largest and most detailed in the world, and tells the story of the events leading up to the Norman invasion in 1066. While you’re in Bayeux the town itself is also worth a look.

Camembert – France’s most famous cheese, Camembert comes from the village of the same name right in the heart of Normandy. You can take a tour to see how it is made and taste this creamy brie-like cheese at the President farm located in the heart of Camembert.

Where to Stay in Normandy

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located in the town of Caen, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – B&B Hotel Caen Memorial

Mid-Range – Ibis Styles Caen Centre Gare

Luxury – Hotel Restaurant Spa Ivan Vautier

Days 7 to 8 – Loire Valley

Drive:  Caen to Tours – approx. 2.5 hours OR 4.5 hours with a detour to Mont St Michel. Leave Caen early to make the most of the day.

Suggested Detour

Pictures of Mont Saint-Michel are among some of the most iconic images of France. The town which is topped with a monastery is built on a rocky outcrop in the middle of a tidal flat and connected to the mainland by a causeway. Try to get there early to wander the steep winding streets up to the monastery without the crowds.

Famous for its abundance of chateau, The Loire Valley has to be one of the most beautiful regions of France. Explore the chateau, wander the sprawling gardens and orchids, taste the local produce and wine and just simply soak up the beauty of the landscape.

What to See & Do in the Loire Valley

Chateau Chambord – The biggest and most famous of the chateau in The Loire Valley, Chateau Chambord was built by King Francis I as a hunting lodge. Of course it has been upgraded and expanded considerably since then. It is one of the best examples of renaissance architecture in the world. A small number of the 440 odd rooms in the chateau are open to the public to explore. See this incredible building without the queues by booking here in advance.

Ainy-le-Vieil Chateau & Gardens – One of the many chateau in the region, what sets Ainy-le-Vieil apart from the rest is the incredible gardens which are split into a series of rooms each with a different theme. The chateau itself has been in the same family since 1467 and you can explore the interiors to check out some of the personal mementos left behind by past family members.

Cycle along the Loire River – The Loire Valley is relatively flat making it the perfect place to hire a bike or take a bike tour ( like this one !). There are bike hire places in most villages along the river and the path is well sign posted. Whether its just a short ride or a full day, you’ll see plenty of beautiful chateau and have the opportunity to stop by plenty of quaint little villages on your ride.

Bourges Cathedral – One of the most remarkable Gothic cathedrals in France, the Bourges is located in the town of the same name and dates back to the 12th century. Modelled on Notre-Dame in Paris, the cathedrals biggest draw card is its spectacular stained glass windows intricately depicting biblical stories.

Explore the Vineyards – The Loire Valley has some of the best wine-making soil in France and some of France’s most well-known wine is produced in the region. You can explore the vineyards on your own in the car, hire a bike or take a tour like this one . Maps are available from local tourist offices making it easy to navigate between the vineyards.

Where to Stay in the Loire Valley

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located in the town of Tours, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel Italia

Mid-Range – Best Western Plus l’Artist Hotel

Luxury – Chateau Belmont Tours

Days 9 to 10 – Lyon

Drive:  Tours to Lyon – approx. 4.5 hours. Leave Tours early to make the most of the day and allow time for plenty of scenic stops along the way.

This is my personal favourite place on this France 14 day itinerary. If the main reasons you’re visiting France are for the culture and the food then you’ll love Lyon. France’s third largest city is home to interesting museums, cultural events year round and food offerings for those with an adventurous palate. 

What to See & Do in Lyon

Explore the Vieux – Lyon’s Vieux (old town) is a great place to start your visit. Take a wander around the cobblestone streets through narrow passageways past delicatessens, artisan stores and sidewalk cafes. Keep your eye out for an old traboule which are passageways used in medieval times by the silk industry, some of which have been recently renovated. A guided tour, like this one , will help you find all those hidden spots.

Dine in a Bouchon – These small restaurants serve the most traditional of Lyonnaise cuisine and are best suited to those looking to try something a little different. Dishes on the menu might include ingredients such as tripe, bone marrow or pork offal.

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere – Perched high above the old town, this impressive white church dominates Lyon’s skyline and offers great views over Lyon from the promenade out the front. You can walk up the steep steps to get there or take the funicular for a few euros to save your legs. Nicknamed “the upside down elephant” because of its outside shape, inside its interior is quite pretty with lots of ornate features.

Roman Amphitheatre  – Right next to Notre Dame is one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres outside of Rome. The theatre holds up to 10,000 people and is used by the city to host many festivals and events throughout the year. When there’s nothing going on, visitors are free to wander around the theatre and picture themselves enjoying a concert in roman times.

Museum of Fine Arts – This museum has one of the broadest collections of fine art pieces of any museum in the world with their collection ranging from ancient Egyptian antiquities to modern art pieces from the last few decades. The Museum of Fine Arts also holds pieces that are among the finest in all of Europe. For art lovers, this place is heaven and not to be missed.

Hire a bike – Lyon is laid out on relatively flat ground and running right through the city are two rivers. This makes Lyon a great place to hire a bike and explore. There are Velo bike stations all over the city where you can pick up a bike any time of day for a few hours or a full day and explore along the rivers or around the city. It’s a great way to cover a lot of ground in less time.

Take a River Cruise – A great way to see most cities in Europe is on a river cruise and Lyon is no different. This one hour Saone River cruise will give you a new perspective of the most famous landmarks of Lyon and its interesting and unique architecture.

Where to Stay in Lyon

Here are three accommodation options to suit all budgets that I recommend you check out. All are centrally located, highly rated and come with excellent facilities.

Budget – Hotel Saint Vincent

Mid-Range – Hotel ParkSaone

Luxury – Villa Maia

Days 11 to 12 – Aix-en-Provence

Drive:  Lyon to Aix-en-Provence – approx. 3.5 hours. Leave Lyon early to allow time for plenty of stops along the way.

Allow plenty of time to stop at two French gems. First make stop at the Pont du Gard for a stroll out to this ancient roman aqueduct. Then head into Avignon to check out the Palais des Papes, walk over the Pont Saint-Benezet, wander the cobblestone streets browsing the boutiques and relax in one of the sidewalk cafes.

Food to the people of Provence is everything, so foodies will love exploring this region on this 2 week France itinerary. From the markets to the cafes and rolling fields of produce, Provence is a region for the senses. Its naturally beautiful landscapes and pretty little towns have been attracting artists for hundreds of years who come for the light and create masterpieces that can now be found in some of the best galleries all over the world.

What to See & Do in Provence

Aix-en-Provence – Basing yourself in Aix-en-Provence will give you plenty of time to explore this picture perfect town. Dine in one of the many fantastic restaurants that use only the best local produce. Wander the cobblestone lanes to see exactly why artists like Cezanne were so inspired by this town. And browse through the chic boutiques scattered through the town.

Arles Amphitheatre  – During the summer months this ancient roman amphitheatre comes alive with plays and concerts. For the rest of the year it is open to visitors. Take a walk around and picture yourself back in the roman days watching sporting events, wild-animal hunts, executions of prisoners, and gladiatorial contests.

Marseille’s Vieux Port – The Old Port of Marseille is the beating heart of the city and the Provence region. It is the place where locals and visitors go to relax, eat, drink, shop and just generally enjoy life. Wander through the shops and markets, have a drink or a bite to eat in one of the restaurants, bars and cafes or just stroll along the harbour people watching.

Saint-Remy-de-Provence – This quaint, traditional Provençal village is rather sleepy these days but back in Roman times it was a thriving Roman settlement, the ruins of which can still be seen today. However, this isn’t the town’s only claim to fame. It was also where Van Gogh was housed while being treated for his many psychiatric problems. It’s a lovely town to explore on foot and enjoy a break at one of the many cafes.

Moustiers Sainte-Marie – Hiding up the Gorges du Verdon is the town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie. The drive to this beautiful medieval town is on a long and winding road up the gorge with some spectacular scenery. The village itself is charming and well worth the effort to get there as it seems like time has stood still of hundreds of years.

Digne les Bains Lavender Fields – Take a drive through the rolling hills of Digne les Bains to see field after field of lavender mass planted. Stop by one of the road-side stalls or country shops to buy all sorts of lavender products from soaps and fragrance sprays to honey and other food products. The lavender blooms from June to August and the locals celebrate with a festival over a few days in August at harvest time.

Where to Stay in Provence

Budget – Hotel Le Mozart

Mid-Range – Hotel du Globe

Luxury – Villa Gallici Hotel & Spa

Days 13 to 14 – French Riviera

Drive:  Aix-en-Provence to Nice – approx. 5 hours if you take the slower coast road the whole way or 3 hours if you take the inland faster route. Leave Nimes early to make the most of the day and allow time for plenty of scenic stops along the way.

Optional Detour

To get to Nice you can take the quick route shown in the map above. Or if you have a bit more time you can detour the French Riviera coast stopping in Saint Topez, Cannes and Antibes .

A France 2 week itinerary would not be complete without a visit to the heart of the French Riviera. Nice is everything you have heard it is and so much more. Nice is a mixture of grit and opulence drenched with lots of sunshine. While the beaches and corso are the places to be and be seen, it’s the winding cobblestone lanes of the old town you’ll want to get lost in and find your own little piece of Nice.

What to See & Do in the French Riviera

Soak up with sun on the beach – While the beaches of Nice aren’t like the white sandy beaches most will be used to, the warm Mediterranean seas are more than enough to get most people over having to walk on pebbles. Whether you hire a sun lounger and umbrella for a day or brave it on the pebbles, a day by the water in Nice is an absolutely must!

Stroll the Promenade des Anglais – This palm fringed promenade runs for five miles along the beach at Nice and is the place to be and be seen when the sun is shining. You could easily spend a few hours strolling up and down the promenade watching the people enjoy life and this beautiful part of the world.

Nice Old Town – Once you’ve had your time in the sun, head to the old town to wander around the colourful winding cobblestone lanes. It’s a labyrinth you could easily get lost in passing but tiny local cafes, green grocers and artisan stores. There’s usually a market going on too which gives you a great glimpse into the lives of the locals.

Monaco – The nicest time of day to enjoy Monaco is just before the sun sets. You can take a bus or train from Nice (20-30 minutes) in the late afternoon to explore Le Palais des Princes de Monaco then watch the sun set over the billions of dollar’s worth of yachts in the marina. Finishing off the night in the Monte Carlo Casino or just outside in one of the sidewalk cafes checking out some of the world’s most expensive cars and the wealthy people who own them. This evening tour is also a great way to experience the very best of Monaco on short trip from Nice.

Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art – Get your final art fix of the trip at this museum famous for its Pop Art collection. The Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art has a large collection of permanent exhibitions which are free to visit as well as ever-changing temporary exhibitions for a small fee. The building itself is also a work of art and worth a look, as is the view from the roof.

Where to Stay in Nice

Budget – Hotel des Dames

Mid-Range – Ibis Styles Nice Centre Gare

Luxury – Hotel Negresco

Read More About Nice

Things to Do in Nice

Got More Time?

If you have more than 2 weeks in France you have a few options to extend you’re time there.

You can choose to add some additional days at the places mentioned above. This will give you more quality time to spend in each place and will allow you to see more and spend a bit more time relaxing.

Alternatively you can add another destination or two to your journey. Just a few of these options include the Bordeaux wine region, the French Alps (I love the mountain town of Annecy), Dijon for the cuisine or Strasbourg on the German border to see how the cultures mix together to form a truly unique city.

Your can read more about some of these additional places to visit in France here .

Short on Time?

Check out my 10 day France Itinerary to see the best of this amazing country if you have a little less than two weeks to spend in France.

Over to you!

What is your favourite part of this France vacation itinerary or where are you most keen to visit?

Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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27 thoughts on “The Best of France: A Two Week Itinerary”

This looks like an incredible itinerary! I’ve only been to Paris and for not that long, would love to go back and do it properly!

Thanks Madi!

Hello, is there another way to follow this itinerary if we won’t drive on our own? Can we go there by train?:) thanks

Hi Dez, You could absolutely do parts of this itinerary by train. Check out https://www.bahn.com/i/view/index.shtml for timetables. Or send me an email and I can see what I can do. Cheers Jen

When you end in Monaco, what are the options to get back to the US? Is there an airport so you can fly back to Paris then US?

Hi There, There is an airport in Nice that you can fly direct to the US from depending on the city you are going to. Otherwise you can fly via most major European cities from Nice to the US. Hope this help.s Cheers Jen

I am coming with my wife and 6 year old. We would like to tour the above (possibly shorter in Paris). Outside Paris – 05 Jun (from Paris) to 13 Jun (Nice). Is there any tour groups we can join for this itinerary or it can be done easily on our own ? Any reasonable recommendation for tour organizers for a similar tour ?

Hi Chidam, I don’t know of any tours that run for this short amount of time in France sorry. However, this trip would easily be done on your own if you hire a car. With your shorter amount of time, you would need to skip a few places and spend a few longer driving days. Cheers Jen

Hi The two week itinerary is very helpful but can you tell me if you have a valid indian licence can we drive in France and if not then how can we do this trip – suggest an alternative say bus train or cycle

Hi Surekha, I am unsure about licence validity for India I am afraid. Might be best to speak with your local licence registery to find that one out. A bus could definitely replace this whole itinerary, a train may be more tricky but not impossible. Cycling would be big distances and you would need a lot more time to cover the long distances. Cheers Jen

Hello I like you article as we are all in great need to discover new adventure in unique destination such as France, The best thing about your article that it is well organised in term of using just few lines to tell us more about France and about thing to do there, places to visit and lifestyle , Thanks for your talented lines, Your professional photos and the great destination you selected

Thanks Reem.

Hi Jen, I am planning to do this itinerary this Oct’18 last weekend upto early week of Nov’18. Is this doable? Should I be worried about any Snowfall during the drive?

HI Thejas, All you need is 2 weeks to do this itinerary. If you have less time, you can remove one or two places to make it more achievable. More time, you can add extra time in some places or some of the other suggested stops at the end. It is flexible. At that time of the year it is unlikely to snow but if it does the areas you are travelling to are well equipped to help you if it does. Have a great trip! Cheers Jen

Thank you for this wonderful article. I have pinned it for when I have more time to visit the southern area. This dec we will be in paris for 5 night and as part of that, I have been trying to find vineyards that we can visit as a day trip or spend a night in town. however, I noticed some vineyards are closed in december time – do you have any experience with that?

Thanks Anish for the kind words. I hope you enjoy Paris. I haven’t had any experience visiting Paris at that time of year i’m sorry Maybe you could find a tour that would be able to help you get to the ones that are open.

I love your itennery and descriptions! We are coming to France 4June for 7-8 days. We think 2-3 days in Paris then we want to immerse in smaller villages either by car or train. Can you recommend the best route given our limited time please Thanks, Susan

We have 8 days outside Paris and would like to visit the ff: 1. Strasbourg 2. Loire Valley 3. Bordeaux 4. Mont Saint Michel

I think its impossible to visit all 4, in 8 days. Which would you suggest we prioritise for this trip and how would you arrange them? We intend to take the train from one city to another.

Thanks so much in advance!

Hi Joanna, GOod to hear you are getting out of Paris. France is so much more than Paris. If you can squeeze in more than 8 days you will have more time to enjoy this. Otherwise suggest dropping one to give you more time to spend in each place and there is also quite a distance between some of them so you will loose whole days travelling. Suggest dropping Bordeaux only because it is so far south. All the other are up north. Order I’d suggest if you dropped Bordeaux would be Mont Saint Michel, Loire Valley and Strasbourg. Have a great trip!

Thanks for sharing your itinerary. We are planning a trip to france in Aug, and yours is pretty much a blue print for us. Having said that, i understand you drove through all these places, and i won’t be having that option. My itinerary will be pretty close to yours except that i will be using public transport to travel between cities. I know that can be more time consuming, but i don’t have any other option. With this limitation, i feel it’s better for me to stay for more nights in a place to avoid carrying luggage. I have divided your itinerary with 4 places to stay. Paris, tours, lyon and Nice. Do you think they are good choices as to embark my journey to visit near by places? These are the places we will be staying.

Dear Jen, My family of 6 with 4 kids ages 17-7 will be traveling to France Oct. 13-Oct. 30. Are there any adjustments you would make to this schedule for fall weather? Also, is Disney Paris worth a day of the trip? Any idea if the train for a family of 6 would be cheaper than renting a large vehicle? I have been so stressed about planning our trip and your schedule is a huge blessing! Thank you!

Hi Amy, Glad to hear this has been helpful! This itinerary is good for travel all year round, so no adjustments required. I have been to Disney Paris as an adult and to be honest found it a bit boring in comparison to Disney in the US. Having said that, I think the kids would love it, it is Disney after all and made for kids. For the car vs train, I would weigh up the cost between the two but also take into account fuel and parking costs. Most likely you will find the train will be cheaper when you factor everything in. Have a fantastic trip!

Hi. Thanks for the info, this is wonderful. I have 14 days of actual visit time and will be doing Paris and Saint Michel. I’ll probably do some of the loire valley, but rather than Nice, Cannes, etc, I’d like to do the french alps. I have to be back in Paris on day 15. Ideas for the Alps?

Hi Jonathan, Thanks your message. I can suggest Annecy as a beautiful village at the foothills of the Alps. It has enchanting canals, great atmosphere and incredible local food.. Hope this helps and enjoy your trip.

I like your travel plan, but will stop in Angers along the way because I went to school there in 1986-1987. I want to visit the university (l’université Catholique de l’Ouest) where I studied and visit some of my host families. Do you have recommendations for hotels? I haven’t been back to France since and it’s been thirty-six years.

Hi Mari, Glad I could help with the itinerary. Sounds like it will be a very nostalgic trip for you. Let me know what type of accommodation and/or per night budget and I will get you some recommendations. Cheers Jen

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Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need

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The South of France is simply perfection. It is a destination that truly entices your senses. Hints of lavender and handmade soap fill the air, tastes of cheeses and jams at the market delight the tastebuds, and even the views of hilltop villages and sun-drenched beaches will leave you breathless. And the best way to experience it is with a South of France road trip itinerary!

If you’re currently planning a trip to the South of France, you’ve probably realized by now that this area of the world has SO much to offer. This definitely makes creating a plan for 7 days in Provence tricky. 

However, after countless hours of research and dreaming, I have created a perfect 7-day South of France itinerary including stops in Avignon, the villages of the Luberon, Aix-en-Provence, Cassis, Cannes, and Nice that you’re 100% going to love. How do I know that? 

Well, I was just there and enjoyed the heck out of it. And yes, it is all super doable in just 7 days. So sit back, relax, dream of sunny days and rosé, and let’s get into it. 

What is Provence?

You’ve likely noticed above that I have used both “South of France” and “Provence” interchangeably. Well, Provence, or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, is a region in the southeast of France well-known for its Mediterranean beaches and lavender fields. 

It is also referred to as the South of France, especially among English speakers, even though it is not the only region that is in the south. 

Now, to break it down further, Provence is made up of 6 departments, which are administrative departments. These include Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Hautes-Alpes, Alpes-Maritimes, Bouches-du-Rhône, Var, and Vaucluse. 

In this Southern France itinerary, we’ll be visiting Vaucluse, Bouches-du-Rhône, and Alpes-Maritimes departments. 

Summary of the Ultimate South of France Itinerary in 7 Days

For a quick reference guide, here is a breakdown of where to go during a South of France road trip!

• Days 1-2: Avignon & Chateaunuef-du-Pape
• Day 3: Drive the Villages of the Luberon to Aix-en-Provence
• Day 4: Aix-en-Provence and Cassis
• Days 5-6: Cannes
• Day 7: Nice 

For more details of all the things to do in the best Provence itinerary, keep reading below! 

Only 7-Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary You’ll Ever Need

From charming villages to a chilled-out beach day, let’s talk about how to have the best South of France Itinerary in 7 days! 

Days 1-2: Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape

To start your Southern France itinerary, Avignon is always a great idea . Steeped in history, this city is a lovely spot to base yourself for exploring the town and nearby area. 

Then, because you’re in the Southern Rhône wine region, you’ve got to visit Chateauneuf-du-Pape! 

Day 1: Avignon & Pont du Gard 

For your first day, arrive in Avignon . Now, the easiest way to get to Avignon is via train. So, depending on where you’re coming from, you can easily take the train from Marseille or Paris. We spent 2 days in Paris beforehand, so we took the 2.5-hour train to Avignon. 

PS- Avignon is a great weekend trip from Paris too!

FYI- There are 2 main train stations in Avignon. The Avignon Centre Railway Station is just outside the city center. The Avignon TGV Railway Station is an 11-minute drive southwest of the city. 

This is super important to know because you’ll be renting a car in Avignon for your South of France road trip itinerary, so choosing the right station is key. Most car rental companies are located at the TGV Railway Station. 

Trust me, I made this mistake and had to Uber over to the correct station to get my car. 

Alright, once you’ve picked up your rental car, it is time to head into Avignon! 

On your first day in Avignon, the best thing to do is to wander around the old city. Have lunch at Cafe Saint-Jean with views of the square and the lovely Saint-Jean Tower. 

Pop into shops around the old city, including Autrefois , with local treats like nougat and callisons, and explore squares like the Place de l’Horloge , before hopping back into your car to visit Pont du Gard . 

Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes. 

This is a stunning area where you could spend a couple of hours walking down by the river, watching the kayakers float by, or you can even cross the bridge! 

Okay, you aren’t actually walking on the ancient structure, but rather on another bridge next to it. But you certainly get close! 

There are also ample hiking trails in the area and even a prehistoric cave. It is well worth spending the rest of the afternoon here before driving back to Avignon for dinner and drinks. 

And for dinner and drinks, definitely head to La Mirande . This 5-star luxury hotel is like stepping right into the Downtown Abbey drawing room. At least that is what it feels like when you have a seat at the salon with a handcrafted cocktail. 

Start with some dinner here at La Salle à Manger . Yes, you could eat at their Michelin-starred restaurant instead for their tasting menu, but if you don’t want to spend too much money, you can enjoy eating à la carte from La Salle à Manger. Trust me, it is just as delicious. 

Enjoy onion soup and delicious mackerel before heading to the bar post-dinner. 

The bar is the coziest spot for a drink with paintings on the wall, plush, 19th-century couches, and even a little fireplace. It is a delightful place for a martini and to wrap up the first day of your 1 week in the South of France. 

Day 2: Avignon & Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Fun fact: did you know that the popes used to live in Avignon? From 1309-1376 the popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome due to civil unrest. 

So, as you can imagine, they needed a place to stay. That is when the Pope’s Palace came to be. Construction began in 1335 and today you can visit this magnificent palace. 

I actually recommend purchasing a pass that includes the Pont de Benezet (or the Pont d’Avignon), Pope’s Palace , and the gardens. Then you can spend a few hours exploring these places. We purchased our passes at the Pont de Benezet.

After that, head to Les Halles to pick up provisions for dinner or some lunch. This massive indoor market has everything from meats and cheeses to fresh produce and wine. 

Then, in the afternoon, it is time to get picked up for your wine tour of Chateauneuf-du-Pape .

We loved this tour as it visits 2 wineries and you learn a lot about the making of this wine, the wine of this region, and more. 

Plus, Chateauneuf-du-Pape literally translates to the New Castle of the Pope. It is named after the castle built for the second of the popes in Avignon: Pope John XII. 

During the tour, you’ll visit a couple of wineries as well as visit the ruins of the castle. It wraps up that evening, and then I recommend winding down your day with some cheese and wine that you picked up at the market earlier. 

Where to Stay in Avignon: 

There are so many great places to stay in Avignon. We stayed in this Airbnb complete with its own kitchen, comfortable bedroom, and a washer/dryer. However, if you wish to stay at a hotel, these are great options:

Budget: Regina Hotel

Mid-Range: Aux Augustins

Luxury: Hotel La Mirande

Day 3 of Your Provence Itinerary in 7 Days: Driving the Villages of the Luberon

Today is a transition day from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence. And while you could just drive straight to the next destination, now is the perfect time to really take in the villages of the Luberon during your 7-day Provence road trip! 

So grab a quick coffee and croissant before driving through the Luberon Regional Natural Park to see some of the most beautiful villages in France. Seriously, there is even an award called “Les Plus Beaux Villages de France.” A couple of towns that you’re visiting today have this award. 

Of course, this area is also well-known for its lavender fields that bloom from mid-June through mid-July. So if you come during this period, expect some more crowds but also stunning lavender. 

But, even outside of the lavender season, this area is gorgeous. We visited in early October and had a great time driving through dreamy villages and enjoying a local market. 

Now there are plenty of stunning villages to drive through here, but, a must-see spot has to be Senanque Abbey . This abbey was founded in 1148 AD by Cistercian monks and is still a working abbey. 

It is gorgeous to visit on its own, but again, during the lavender season, this place really shines. It is surrounded by lavender. 

After the abbey, definitely check out Gordes . There is a lovely lookout spot for taking photos, but pass through the village or even stop at their market if you’re driving there on a Tuesday. This place was awarded one of the most beautiful villages in France, so it is worth a stop! 

Then, as it was a Saturday when we were driving the Luberon, we went to Apt specifically for their Saturday farmers market. Honestly, we were so impressed. It was so much fun to walk around, sampling jams, chutneys, cheeses, and sausages. 

We purchased so much just from this market including cheese, nougat, jam, handmade lavender soap, and more. Take some time here to grab essentials for a picnic lunch or just fill up at the market itself. 

FYI- Check out market days ahead of time while planning your itinerary. We chose to visit Apt for the market on Saturday, but there are markets all over the Luberon villages open on different days of the week. 

Also, many of these markets close up shop around 12:30 pm or so, meaning you’ll want to get there by at least 11:30 am to really take it all in. 

After Apt, it is time to hop back into the car and drive to another awarded beautiful village in France: Roussillon. Unlike other villages with limestone architecture, this place is red, orange, and yellow thanks to the ochre-rich cliffs. 

Wander in the village before walking along the Ochre Path to see the mineral-rich soil up close. There is a hiking path that is both 35 and 50 minutes long. 

Up next is Bonnieux , where you’ll stop in to try some rosé at a local winery: Chateau la Canorgue . This estate has free wine tastings and is just stunning. 

Then, definitely head to Lourmarin (another Plus Beaux Village winner) to see the Chateau de Lourmarin before stopping at Chateau Constantin for another tasting (drink responsibly, of course!). 

Then, last, but not least, as the day starts to turn into evening, head to Cucuron. This gorgeous little town has a basin lined with trees with ample cafes perfect for people-watching. We also loved the Citadel Tower with views over the little village. 

Once you’ve explored the Luberon, head into Aix-en-Provence for dinner and bedtime. 

Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis

Wake up and grab some breakfast before exploring the lovely city of Aix-en-Provence. Some highlights here include Cezanne’s Studio and Musee Granet. However, if you’re lucky and happen to be here on a Sunday as we were, it was fun just wandering around and visiting all the markets! 

There was a flower market, antique market, and food market that we visited and took in the scenery! It was also fun just to wander the streets and stop at confectionaries and other shops! 

Spend the morning exploring Aix-en-Provence before driving down to Cassis . 

Grab lunch by the harbor before going on a boat cruise of Calanques National Park . These Calanques are rock formations (typically from limestone) that create a deep gorge in which water from the sea flows. 

There is an option from Cassis to do a boat tour from the harbor with stops at either 3, 5, 8, or 9 Calanques. We ended up doing 5 as that lasted just over an hour (the longest tour is 2 hours and 20 minutes). You can buy tickets at the ticket booth and then go on the tour.

It was really cool to glide into these Calanques and enjoy the views! 

You could also hike to a few of the Calanques from Cassis if you have time. Or, if you want to get adventurous, why not take a kayak tour ? 

However, as we also wanted to explore more of Cassis and have dinner in Aix-en-Provence, we opted for the boat trip. 

After the boat cruise, we wandered around the harbor and ended with some beach time at Plage du Bestouan . 

After that, head back to Aix-en-Provence to explore during the evening before the next stop on your Southern France road trip. 

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence:

Aix-en-Provence has so many cute places to stay, including Airbnbs. We ended up staying in this amazing Airbnb that was our favorite apartment of the trip! However, if you prefer hotels, check out these places. 

Budget: Hotel des Augustins

Mid-Range: Renaissance Aix-en-Provence

Mid-Range: Maison Dauphine

Luxury: Villa Gallici

Days 5-6 of Your South of France Road Trip Itinerary: Cannes

Up next is the iconic star-studded town of Cannes ! Okay, there aren’t celebrities there year-round, just mostly during the Cannes Film Festival. 

Outside of that, this is a town of luxury shopping, delicious food, and beach clubs. 

Day 5: Drive to Cannes & Explore

Okay, there are two ways to shape this day during your South of France road trip in a week. The first is to go straight to Cannes and explore , which is what we did. 

We grabbed lunch, window-shopped at luxury stores like Chanel and Louis Vuitton, strolled along the Croisette Promenade as we took in the Mediterranean views, and then we hiked up to the Église Notre-Dame d’Espérance and wandered at a stellar sunset view over the city and sea. 

Then, we wrapped up our day with dinner at Restaurant Mickaella over in the Suquet neighborhood. Honestly, this neighborhood is the place to grab dinner and drinks. The stuff along the harbor is way too crowded in the evenings. This place has such a cool vibe and the restaurants are better. 

If you’re visiting during the lavender season and have the energy, you could make this another road trip day and visit the lavender fields in the Valensole Plateau and stop by Gorge du Verdon for a boat trip. 

Then, you’d end up in Cannes in the evening for dinner. 

Honestly, we were wiped from all the previous exploring (and we weren’t there during the lavender season) so we gave it a skip and went straight to Cannes, but it was in our original plan before having to reschedule our trip to October! 

Day 6: Beach Day in Cannes

Regardless of yesterday’s choose-your-own-adventure, today is meant for resting. The main point of our journey to Cannes was for a beach day. Why? 

While there are tons of great beaches along the French Riviera , Cannes is known for its sandy beaches versus pebbly ones. Plus, I always wanted to try out a beach club. 

So today is the day when you’ll head to a beach club off the Croissette Promenade for the day. Many of these places open up around 10 am and stay open until the evening. We ended up booking a spot at La Plage du Festival . 

And it was super adorable. You head downstairs from the promenade and are met with a colorful cocktail bar, ample seating for lunch, and several beach chairs and umbrellas. During the summertime, chairs go for €40-50+ for the day and include the chair, umbrella, and a towel. 

Luckily, if you show up in the fall, it usually is still warm enough for a swim and it is only around €25 for the day. 

So take advantage of having a beach chair all day and relax, read, go for a swim, have lunch, and get some rosé or Aperol spritzes. 

Then, clean up that evening and have dinner around the Suquet area again before your last day of the best 1 week South of France trip itinerary.

Where to Stay in Cannes: 

This can range wildly in prices as there are ample luxurious hotels. But, here are some based on your budget. 

Budget:  Novotel Suites Cannes Centre

Mid-Range: Hotel de Provence

Luxury: Hotel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes

Day 7 of the South of France Road Trip in a Week: Nice

To wrap up your South of France road trip, it is time to head to Nice. 

Nice is an iconic city on the French Riviera and for good reason. Its architecture is stunning, it has a fabulous market, and you can’t beat the relaxed atmosphere. 

So after a day pampering yourself by the beach in Cannes, why not end by exploring the city of Nice ?

Start off by driving toward the Nice Côte d’Azur airport to drop off your rental car. And even though it adds a bit more time, take the scenic route. There is a road that goes along the coast that you can take (I suggest using Google Maps and selecting that route). 

You’ll pass Antibes, Cagnes-sur-Mer, and more as you head to the Nice airport to drop off your rental car. 

Yes, you could just drop it off when you fly out the next day, but if you have an early flight this could be tricky. Plus, parking in Nice can be difficult so we just saved some money and dropped off the car this day. 

From there, head into Nice to explore. Walk along the Promenade des Anglais along the sea, visit the Cours Saleya Market for last-minute souvenirs and to try socca (a chickpea flour pancake with water, olive oil, and salt), and wander up to the Colline du Château for amazing views over the town and sea.

If you want to keep wandering, there are also cool spots to check out like Massena Square with its light-up statues or the Modern Art Museum. 

Obviously, there is a ton to do here, but if you only have a day, I’d keep it simple with the promenade, market, and chateau. Then, why not check out the beach before dinner? 

Then, it is time to head to bed as you unwind from your amazing South of France road trip itinerary! 

It is hard to leave this part of the world, but this trip will leave you with so many memories. 

Where to Stay in Nice:

Being a larger city, there are plenty of places to stay. Here are a few favorites. 

Budget: Arome Hotel

Mid-Range: Hotel Palais Saleya

Luxury: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée

Best Way to Get Around the South of France

While this is a South of France road trip itinerary, there are other ways to explore this area. If you want to see smaller towns on your own schedule, though, renting a car is the best idea. 

But, you can also take trains to various cities like Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, Cannes, Cassis, and Nice. 

From there, you could stay and take day trips. Here are a few to check out! 

• From Avignon: Best of Provence Tour
• From Avignon: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Avignon: Lavender Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Luberon Villages Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Half-Day Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Cassis Boat Ride and Wine Tour
• From Aix-en-Provence: Valensole Lavender Tour
• From Nice: Full-Day French Riviera Day Tour

When to Visit Provence For Your 7-Day Trip

The most popular time to visit Provence is the summer, particularly when the lavender is in bloom from mid-June through mid-July. That is when Avignon, Aix-en-Provence, and the Luberon villages will be full of people dreaming of a glimpse of the lavender fields. 

It is also warm and sunny along the beaches, making it a perfect time to swim. 

However, it is also insanely crowded at times. So while late May through August is a popular time to visit, I honestly loved our October trip. 

In October, it is still warm enough to swim most of the time in the earlier part of the month. We had a beach day in Cannes and it was great! We also started to see fall foliage which was charming, especially in the villages. 

Even the winter is much nicer than in northern France, especially along the Riviera. But, I’d say the best time for fewer people and great weather is September-October. 

But, if you’re here for lavender (which I totally understand- we were originally supposed to go for that!), opt for the beginning of July. 

Other Tips For Visiting Provence

Before you book that Provence road trip itinerary, here are some tips:

• Check dates/times of markets. Almost every city and village will have a market. Some are several days a week, while others are once a week. Most of the time they don’t stay open late. The Luberon markets typically wrap up around 12:30 pm. Markets like Les Halles in Avignon close at 2 pm. 
• Enjoy a slower pace. Some days we rushed to see a lot, but on others we relaxed and wandered. Leave room to wander during this trip. Stop at roadside cafes or shops and poke inside. Head to a winery. Pull over near the beach and go for a swim if you wish! Provence is meant to be savored. 
• Pack sunscreen. Provence is a sunny region, so pack sunscreen ! 
• Learn a little French. I’m not saying be fluent (I’m still learning too!), but know a few words/phrases like how to order at a restaurant and ask where the toilets are.
• Always say “Bonjour/Bonsoir.” This is a France travel thing in general. It is important to greet people in shops and cafes with a simple “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir” depending on the time of day. I typically start saying “Bonsoir” after 5 pm.
• Try all the local products! Provence has a plethora of unique products to try including soap, lavender (sprays, candy, syrups-you name it, there is lavender for it), aioli, spices, socca, and more! You may want to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs. 
• Have fun! Provence is a stunning region full of jaw-dropping views and delightful cuisine. Enjoy every second during your 7 days in the South of France. 

A 7-day South of France itinerary is enough time to really savor Provence. You’ll experience local markets, incredible cuisine, dazzling beaches, and even enchanting towns. What could be better than that? 

Would you visit Provence? What would your ideal South of France itinerary look like? 

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16 thoughts on “Only South of France Road Trip Itinerary in 7 Days You’ll Ever Need”

Thank you for this article I enjoyed reading it and I look forward to those vacation more than ever now

Hi am really keen on going to all these places but how did you go with parking your car in each village. Is it expensive and easy to do . I am going in October too

Hi Davinya! Parking isn’t too bad, especially since you’re traveling in the shoulder season. There are places to park around towns and you’ll either need to download a parking app to pay or pay at a pay station. Some bigger towns, like Aix-en-Provence, even have parking garages you can use as well. Parking wasn’t too bad in price either.

Hello there! I just finished reading your article about a South of France road trip itinerary in 7 days, and I must say, it’s an absolutely stunning and enticing journey through this beautiful region. The South of France has always been a dream destination for me, and your detailed insights and recommendations have left me even more eager to embark on this unforgettable road trip.

Your suggested itinerary for the South of France is well-planned and covers a diverse range of experiences. From the charming city of Nice to the picturesque lavender fields of Provence, you’ve curated a perfect route that captures the essence of this enchanting region.

I loved how you included practical tips for travelers, such as the best time to visit and recommended stops along the way. Your insights on where to indulge in delicious French cuisine and experience the local culture were very helpful.

The inclusion of lesser-known gems and off-the-beaten-path attractions was a wonderful addition. It’s evident that you want your readers to have a well-rounded and authentic journey through the South of France.

The captivating images throughout the article truly bring the destinations to life, making me feel like I’m already on this scenic road trip.

Thank you for sharing such a valuable and inspiring guide. Your article is a fantastic resource for travelers planning a South of France road trip, and I’ll be sure to refer to your tips when I plan my own journey. Keep up the fantastic work, and I’ll be eagerly waiting for more of your travel insights and recommendations!

Thank you! That is high praise! I hope you get to enjoy the South of France soon!

Thank you for sharing this it is very helpful

Hello Kat, my family is planning a trip to the south of France in October 2024. I was wondering what would be the best itinerary for a 2 week trip in car leaving from Paris and returning back to Paris. There are so many beautiful villages in the south and will need advice on the best villages to see and stay. Thanks

Hi Nelson! Have so much fun, the South of France is truly incredible. I would definitely recommend spending 7 days doing this itinerary, but, since you have some extra time, I would recommend spending a couple of days in the Luberon and perhaps staying in a town like Gordes. I also would recommend checking out Antibes and Saint-Tropez if you would like to go to more beach destinations. If you want more smaller towns to enjoy, check out L’Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue for its canals and its Sunday market, Grasse if you love perfume (it’s the perfume capital of the world!), and even Saint-Remy-de-Provence for its architecture and landscapes that once inspired Van Gogh. Since you’re driving all the way to Provence from Paris, you could also spend some time in Dijon and the villages of Burgundy as well as Lyon on the way down and perhaps stop by some chateaux of the Loire Valley on the way back to Paris. I hope this helps and have fun!

Hi, Regarding your comment below- is this accessible by train or is there an easy way to see the bridge without hiring a car?

“Pont du Gard is about a 30-minute drive from Avignon and is a must-see. This is an ancient Roman aqueduct that crosses the Gardon River. Step back through time at this first-century bridge that was used to carry water to Nîmes.”

Yes, it is easiest to see via car. However, you can take the train into Avignon and take Bus Line 115 to Pont du Gard. Timetables can be found here: https://storage.googleapis.com/is-wp-90-prod/uploads-preprod/2023/08/OC-0723-FHliO-30-115.pdf

Hi- is Senanque Abbey or the lavender fields accessible by public transport?

Sadly, this is not available via public transport. However, you could book a tour that stops here. This is a good tour that stops at Senanque Abbey during June and July for the lavender fields: https://gyg.me/UQNw8u9z

Hi Kat, I think you have just sorted out my summer vacation! Thank you so much for the details, pictures and amazing descriptions. I am just wondering how feasible this is to do on a budget and if you have anymore money saving recommendations.

Thanks so much 🙂 x

You’re welcome! You’re going to fall in love with the South of France! It wasn’t too terribly expensive when we went. However, it was in late September/early October. If you can go before peak season of July and August, that helps a bit. Also, instead of renting a car, you could take the train around to the cities and do day trips to places like the Luberon via a tour. Also, there are some B&Bs and hotels that can be found in these places for less money- I like checking for prices on TripAdvisor. Also, you can potentially grab Airbnbs and such too with a kitchen to save some $$$ on dining out every day. I hope this helps and have a great time!

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South of France Itinerary: 7-Day Road Trip Through Provence & the French Riviera

Whether you’re cruising with the top down through the stunning wine country of Provence , or driving through the French Riviera along the sparkling coast (aka “The Côte d’Azur”), southern France is a region you’ll want to absorb every last inch of. But because there’s so much to do and see, planning your South of France itinerary can be quite overwhelming. 

The good news? This guide—which was created as the result of some SERIOUS research prior to my own trip—will be the perfect outline for your road trip through the French Riviera and Provence. Whether you’re planning on spending 7 days or 10 days in the South of France, you’ll find the suggestions below to be the perfect road-trip itinerary for first-time visitors.

It hits every spot you’d want to see: Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Marseille, Bormes-Les-Mimosas, Le Lavandou, St. Tropez, Nice, Cannes, Grasse, Antibes, Éze, and Monaco .

One thing to note before we dive in: the South of France is meant for exploring and discovering—a little bit of this, a little bit of that, and a whole lot of rosé along the way (not while driving), of course. For me, it definitely felt like more of an “on-the-go” trip than a relaxing vacation. Just something to keep in mind while you’re planning your itinerary.

Here’s an overview of exactly what the quintessential South of France road trip looks like. One of the best travel hacks , in my opinion, is using Google Maps Trip Planner to plot out your own specific itinerary once you decide on it! You can add a ton of additional details and points of interest based on your specific road trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect South of France Itinerary

How many days should you spend in the south of france.

The length of a trip to the South of France really depends on so many factors: your budget, your time, how quick of a pace you like to move at, where you’re flying in from, and how many places you want to see.

I’m going to start off by recommending at least 5 days— but truthfully, in order to get the full experience, you’d probably want to dedicate a week or 10 days.

Day 1 – 2: Aix-en-Provence, Avignon and Marseille

Upon landing, pick up your rental car and kick off your South of France road-trip in Provence. 

Sample Itinerary

8:00 AM – Visit Notre Dame de Sanaque (make sure you check the times it opens)

11:30 AM – Pope’s Palace in Avignon (you could spend all day here, but if you want to cram in a bunch, you’ll get the gist of the place by just touring around and taking it all in)

2:00 PM – Lunch (and a glass, or two, of rosé, of course)

3:30 PM – Cavaillon Synagogue (you can easily substitute this with a visit to a winery or another local attraction)

6:00 PM – Discover Port of Marseilles and eat at La Marine des Goudes (one of the best fresh seafood meals I’ve had in my life, overlooking the most stunning vista). Separately, you can find a restaurant where to eat Bouillabaisse, as this region is well-known for this traditional Provençal fish stew.

10:00 PM – Head back to the hotel.

Pro Tip: If you’re dead set on seeing the lavender fields, make sure you time it right. When I went the lavender had just been harvested and I did not see one ounce of purple anywhere. The best time to see the lavender fields in Provence is from mid-June to mid-July.

Now, if you’re hoping to add winery visits to your Provence itinerary, you’ll notice that I didn’t include that. Since I only had one day and there’s so much to explore, I chose to skip the wineries in favor of seeing other aspects of the area. However, if I had more time, I would have spent the second day dedicated to seeing all of the different wineries.

For those looking to incorporate a winery or vineyard visit into their trip for Day 2 , here’s a quick list for you! 

The Best Wineries to Visit in Provence

• Chateau la Canorgue
• Château de Berne
• Chêne Bleu Winery
• Domaine de Fontenille
• Château Fontvert
• Chateau D’Esclans

The Best Restaurants In Provence, France

• Le Jardin du Quai
• La Petite Maison de Cucuron
• Le Pont de l’Orme
• L’Agape, Avignon
• L’Oustau de Baumanière, Les Baux de Provence

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence: Hotel Le Pigonnet

In order to get to the hotel, we drove through what was a seemingly industrial area, so I initially wasn’t sure what to expect. However, once we turned off the main road and into the gates of this property, I knew it was a fantastic choice. At the end of a short, tree-lined gravel road was Le Pigonnet, a stunning boutique hotel in the middle of Aix-en-Provence. 

With its old world charm and 18th century foundations, this stunner did not disappoint. Although small, the rooms were adorable, some with balconies overlooking the small, but unique pool set up. The staff was friendly and welcoming and it was a lovely start to our trip. 

From here, it was easy to get around, even on foot. We were in the middle of Aix and could visit the town center, as well as easily drive out of town to the wineries and small surrounding villages we wanted to explore, including the lavender fields that everyone raves about.

(FYI: we initially decided on the property because it’s a Chase Sapphire partner. If you’re not using credit card benefits and points for travel , you’re doing it wrong!)

Day 3: Bormes-Les-Mimosas, Le Lavandou, and St. Tropez

After a fruitful first day, we kept it moving. Waking up early, and having breakfast by our beautiful pool, we then hoped in our Fiat and rode down the scenic A52 autoroute toward St. Tropez—the epitome of a seaside French Riviera town (and the one you see in all those vintage posters of the Cote d’Azur).

For this portion of your itinerary, you’ll definitely want to explore all of the small villages including Bormes-Les-Mimosas and Le Lavandou on the way to the famed St. Tropez. 

9:00 AM – Light breakfast at the hotel; hit the road.

The drive is beautiful, and you’ll find it hard not to pull over every 10 minutes. Definitely give yourself some extra time to wander around throughout your drive.

* Pro Tip: If you’re not interested in hilltop villages, you can always head to Chateau D’Esclans (Whispering Angel winery) for a little early morning rosé tasting.

12:30 PM – Stop for lunch. We decided to stop at Bormes-Les-Mimosas for a quick lunch and a hurried peek to appreciate the perfect panorama along the many outlook points on this hilltop village.

Continue your drive and stop at other small villages and communes along the way. A few of the most beautiful towns in this area are Grimaud, Port Grimaud, and Le Lavandou.

Then head to St. Tropez.

3:00 PM – Explore the Port de Saint-Tropez for shopping and an afternoon coffee. (Many of the items on our list of the best things to buy in Paris are available in Saint-Tropez as well, so keep an eye out!) Alternatively, if you’re interested in wine, you should check out Château Minuty in Gassin, which is located right near St. Tropez. (The brand is known for making some of the best rosé wine in the world.)

10:30 PM – Dinner at L’Opera. One of the most quintessentially over-the-top experiences you can have while visiting St. Tropez is dinner at L’Opera. It’s a restaurant, nightclub, and theatrical performance all wrapped into one. There are two main seatings—early and late—and as you might imagine, the later seating is when things really heat up. You can ask your hotel concierge to assist with making a reservation.

Day 4: St. Tropez

9:00 AM – Have a leisurely morning at your hotel.

2:00 PM – Late lunch & beach club.

The celeb-fueled party location of St. Tropez was made famous during the 60’s as the go-to destination for the jetsetting elite. Today, St. Tropez attracts an equally glamorous crowd, drawn to the area for its bustling beach clubs, mega-yachts, and high-end shopping.

Typically, if you walk along the beach, you’ll find people dancing on tables, loud thumping house music, and fabulous people feasting on lavish meals while downing jeroboams of rose and champagne.

However—you won’t find that if you go in August like we did. What we didn’t realize was that August is the slow month, as mostly everyone in Europe leaves these towns for their own vacations. Aside from the waitstaff and a few stragglers, the town was dead. Just something to keep in mind and help manage expectations. Lesson learned! May, June, and July are far more lively.

There are so many different beach clubs to choose from, so here’s a quick list of recommendations!

The Best Beach Clubs in St Tropez

• Loulou Plage & Restaurant
• Club 55 (a bit more low-key than the others)
• Nikki Beach
• Tahiti Plage
• Pearl Beach
• Bagatelle (perfect for a celebratory occasion or a bachelorette party)
• La Réserve à la Plage (make sure you try the lobster salad)
• Byblos Beach Club
• Club Les Palmiers

7:00 PM – Enjoy sunset on the beach, then head back to your hotel. Grab a casual bite to eat near where you’re staying.

Where to Stay in St. Tropez

• Mid-range: La Ponche
• Expensive:  Lily of the Valley — If you’re lucky enough to stay here, be sure to have breakfast on the terrace. You can reserve a beach villa if you’re hoping for a getaway that feels super luxe and private. The property has a gorgeous spa and pool, and they serve really great food. I’m including some pics of the property below!

Best Restaurants in St. Tropez, France

• L’Opéra Saint-Tropez (a full show/experience rather than just a dinner)
• La Petit Plage
• Cucina Byblos
• La Sauvageonne (a fun spot for cocktails)
• Dior des Lices (the best place to grab brunch)

Day 5: Nice

8:00 AM – Make your way to Nice. The drive takes about an hour and a half without traffic.

10:00 AM – Food walking tour with A Taste of Nice.

2:30 PM – Explore Vieux Nice (Old Nice) and Lunch (tons of cute cafes, so pick your fave!)

Pro Tip: Booking AirBnB experiences is an excellent way to do things the way locals do. Whether its a bike tour, a food tour, a walking tour, or anything that suits your fancy, I always check these options wherever I travel.

4:30pm – Beach. During the summer, the sun stays out for a long time, so it’s nice to take a little rest. But, the beaches in Nice are rocky, so just account for that. Alternatively, you can chose to go to the beach in Villefranche-Sur-Mer or Menton, the lemon capital of the world and the last French town before you reach Italy.

7:00pm – Climb Le Parc de la Colline du Château for sunset views and a stroll along Port Lympia. Alternatively, you could head down to Le Plongeoir (a local restaurant) for a really unique sunset watching experience.

9:30 PM – Dinner at La Roustide or Le Petit Maison.

Where to Stay in Nice: Chateau Le Cagnard

Rather than staying in Nice proper, we chose instead to stay in nearby Cagnes-sur-Mer, and we’re so glad we did. This real-life 15th century castle-turned-boutique hotel is perched on a hilltop overlooking the quaint village of Haut de Cagnes.

Day 6: Grasse and Antibes

8:00 AM – Light breakfast and  drive to Grasse (the perfume capital of the world.)

10:00 AM – Musee International de la Parfumerie. If you want to create your own fragrance, be sure to book that specific tour as it is about 4 hours long and requires advanced booking.

12:00 PM – Drive to the famous Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. ( Alternatively, you could use this afternoon to explore Cannes. If that’s what you choose, I recommend lunch at Restaurant La Palme d’Or or L’Alba.)

1:00 PM – Lunch, pool, and drinks at the Hotel du Cap Eden Roc. Try booking a day cabana and eat by the pool instead of the restaurant. It’s pricey—but not as pricey as staying at the hotel—and gives you the same indulgent and relaxing experience that you’d have if you were a guest.

5:00 PM – Head out to Antibes and explore the unique charm of this underrated town.

7:30 PM – Dinner in Antibes at Le Figuier de Saint Esprit (another stunning little town on the Cote d’Azur you just can’t miss!)

Day 7: Èze, Monaco

Next on the itinerary is the exquisite and fabulous village of Èze and the glitzy principality of Monaco. In reality, you could break these places up into two separate days, but for the sake of this itinerary, we have them included together.

8:00 AM – Depart your hotel and drive to Èze for breakfast. It’s approximately a 45-60 minute drive from the Cannes/Antibes area.

9:00 AM – Discover Èze. The Medieval hilltop village, which overlooks the Cote d’Azur, is stunning. Think quaint cobblestone streets, vibrant bougainvillea, and charming boutiques. Note that Èze requires a lot of walking at steep inclines, so you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes .

3:00 PM – Drive to Monaco and check into your hotel. 

There’s certainly no shortage of opulence or fabulosity in this region. It’s not for everyone. (Personally I found it very pretentious and it was a bit cheesy for my taste.) But there are certainly other areas, like the botanical gardens, that provide a more local experience.

8:00 PM – Dinner at Blue Bay, La Montgolfiere, Buddha Bar or Le Grill, followed by a round at the casino and a swing by the several bars, lounges and clubs to get the night going… if that’s your thing, of course!

Where to Stay in Monte Carlo

• Mid-Range: Fairmont
• Expensive: Hotel Metropole Monte-Carlo

We ended up getting a room at the Fairmont (where the famous “hairpin turn” is of the 24 Hours of Le Mans race every summer) because we wanted to enjoy the casino and nightlife of Monaco and didn’t want to drive back to our hotel late at night.

Monaco vs. Monte Carlo

Now you’re probably wondering: what’s the difference between Monte Carlo and Monaco? The two are often used interchangeably so it can be a bit confusing. Monaco is the name of the country (principality), and Monte Carlo is a neighborhood within Monaco.

Monte-Carlo is where you’ll find the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo and many luxury hotels.

Fun fact: Monaco is also the second smallest country in the world. (Only Vatican City is smaller.)

What to Wear in the South of France

One of the questions I get asked most often is about packing for a trip to the South of France—and more specifically, whether there’s a “French Riviera dress code.”

While the fashion here definitely skews a bit more polished than what you’d pack for a standard beach vacation or other European destinations like Santorini or Positano , there’s no specific dress code, per se.

Below you’ll find examples of several outfits I wore during my trip. Lots of sundresses, flat sandals, tasteful swimsuits, and sun-hats.

This packing guide for St Barths also provides additional inspo as the styles are very similar!

Hopefully you found this South of France itinerary helpful. Are there any recommendations you have that I didn’t include here? Please leave them in the comments below!

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Nikki Marie, a Cuban American Miami native, moved to her dream city, NYC, in 2015. Her penchant for adventure and travel have taken her to more than 30 countries. A PR pro 9-5, Nikki Marie uses her free time to share her travel hacks and high-lo fashion inspo via her instagram  @TheCubanCarrie  – a play on words of her all-time favorite character, Carrie Bradshaw.

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loved this piece! what would you recommend for a more *relaxing* trip in the south of france (which cities, hotels, etc) for about 5 days? looking at also going at the end of august then spending 2 nights in paris on the return.

Fly to Niece then stay in the small town of Mentin for a few days….you don’t need a car take the train along the coast maybe stay near eze or similar few days or Antibes…the train is coastal so you can use it daily..gappy holidays…

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4 ways to experience slow tourism in France

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Nature and Outdoor Activities Cycling Tourism

Reading time: 0 min Published on 19 March 2024, updated on 17 April 2024

What about exploring France by taking it easy, taking your time, savouring encounters and landscapes, and simply soaking up the stillness and beauty? Whether you're on foot, on a bike, on the water or on horseback, France is a wonderful outdoor playground bursting with relaxed adventure itineraries. Here are our tips for living life in the slow lane.

Bike rides and early starts

With 22,800km of cycle routes and greenways, 5,500km of regional tourist routes and 3,000 road and mountain bike circuits, the Tour de France 's home country has no shortage of great two-wheeled escapes. Choose from a range of bikes - classic road, mountain or electric - and hurtle down the Champagne hillsides, climb the Auvergne mountains or Alpine passes, pedal with your hair blowing in the wind on the Atlantic coast, or saunter from chateau to chateau in the Loire Valley.

Whether you opt for a one-day loop or a longer route in stages, every region has their own range of options, over and above the major routes that criss-cross the whole of France. The highly practical France Vélo Tourisme website lists them all. At the top of the list, with 900 sumptuous kilometres from Nevers to Saint-Brévin, the Loire à Vélo trail boasts the 'maillot jaune' in terms of annual rider numbers. But the Véloscénie from Paris to the Mont-Saint-Michel, the ViaRhôna connecting Lake Geneva to the Mediterranean through vineyards and lavender fields, and the Vélodyssée, undulating from Brittany to the Basque Country, are also popular choices. There's also the Vélomaritime, with its 1,500kms and almost uninterrupted sea views from Roscoff in Finistère to Dunkirk in Northern France.

So you can take your hands off the handlebars, so to speak, Accueil Vélo takes care of the logistics. There are 7000 service providers throughout France offering services to cyclists: accommodation, catering, repairers, rental companies, tourist sites and tourist offices. All you have to do is ride and enjoy, knowing that the French Cycling Federation has also approved some 650 specific cycling tourism addresses. Time to get in the saddle!

France Cycle Tourism 'Cyclists Welcome' Loire à Vélo (Loire by Bike) ViaRhôna Vélodyssée Véloscénie (Véloscenic) Vélomaritime

Hiking: the best way to walk

Itchy feet? Lace up your shoes, grab your poles and get out onto France's hiking trails, coastal paths, seaside dunes, country lanes and mountain passes. With 11 national parks, 54 regional natural parks and 180,000km of marked trails including 65,000 for long-distance hiking (GR), France is a walker's paradise. Take a simple day trip around the pretty hilltop villages of the Luberon or try a bivouac trek in the Alps around Mont Blanc, or around the Pyrenean craters.

Fancy an initiation? The Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage trails , and in particular the famous Via Podiensis which follows the GR65 from Puy-en-Velay in Auvergne, should inspire you. Enjoy wide open spaces, beautiful views and friendly tables in stopover gites.

Other renowned routes include the Via Alpina, the Chemin de Stevenson (to be tackled with or without a donkey), the extraordinary mountainous GR20 in Corsica or Brittany's coastal GR34, where you hardly ever see customs' officers despite its nickname. There are vast variations in landscape, duration and ability level in France - so to make your choice easier, the French Hiking Federation has produced several collections of precious topo-guides stuffed with info. The Federation is also responsible for maintaining the GR and smaller PR routes.

French Hiking Federation (French only) My GR (French only) French National Parks French Regional Natural Parks

River tourism: take the plunge

Ready to cast off the moorings of everyday life? To unplug with the slow rhythm of a river cruise, surrounded by greenery with just the sound of lapping water? With its majestic rivers and canals, France is the ideal boating destination. It offers 8,500km of waterways, of which 6,700 are officially labelled as navigable ('Voies Navigables de France'), making it the proud owner of Europe's largest river network. Time to embark on a floating adventure through a landscape dotted with elegant chateaux, picturesque villages, lockkeepers' houses bedecked with flowers and beautiful port towns.

You can travel by barge along the canals of the Rhône, Burgundy and Midi at a relaxed speed of 7km/hour. These motorised houseboats (no licence required) make holidays with family or friends feel effortless - but to truly experience 'river tourism', you have to set foot on land, too. Combine gentle navigation with cycling along the ViaRhôna or the Loire à Vélo, or hiking or horseback riding on the towpaths. Combine all that with exploring the local food, heritage and traditions - and you'll understand what a holiday on the waterways is all about.

Navigable Waterways of France (French only) Le Boat - River Cruising (French only) Locaboat Holidays Nicols - Boat Rentals

On horseback, without galloping

While it's best to have a bit of training before embarking on a long-distance ride, there's nothing to stop you going slowly on the beach at sunset in Brittany or Normandy, between flamingos and herdsmen's huts in Camargue, or along the Cézallier plateau in Auvergne.

Gaining height on horseback also provides new points of view to admire the châteaux of the Loire, the great vineyards of Burgundy and Bordeaux, or the Bay of the Mont-Saint-Michel. Trekking horses are ideal for beginners, accustomed to their environment and moving with a sure footing, so you can experience unspoilt corners without needing prior experience. Some 8,000 equestrian centres and specialist agencies will get you started - and the Geo Cheval website can suggest routes throughout France.

For a wilder adventure, you should set off at full throttle on the Route d'Artagnan, a European benchmark. Departing from Lupiac, in the Occitanie region of France, where King Louis XIV's proud Gascon musketeer originated, it crosses France, taking two routes via the beautiful Loire Valley. Head to Chambord and its enchanting park for some memorable cavalcades under century-old trees.

Thinking of a more peaceful ride? Chugging along in total safety, donkeys also make affectionate guides and travel companions for family trips. Load your picnic, bags and kids and off you go, either on your own or accompanied by a country guide. From the Brittany coast to the thyme-scented paths of Provence, the National Donkey and Hiking Federation provides a comprehensive list of donkeys and suitable routes throughout France.

French Riding Federation (French only) Route d'Artagnan GeoCheval (French only) National Donkey and Hiking Federation (French only)

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Enchanting Colmar & Strasbourg: A 3-Day Fairytale Itinerary

April 22, 2024 · 3 min read

Embark on a 3-day journey through the picturesque towns of Colmar and Strasbourg, nestled in the Bas-Rhin region of France. Begin your adventure in Colmar's Little Venice, where the quaint Quai de la Poissonnerie sets the scene for an hour of exploration through one of the most characteristic neighborhoods, brimming with historic sites. Continue to St Martin's Church, an architectural marvel that demands an hour of admiration. Next, wander through the old-world charm of Vieux Colmar for two hours, soaking in the ambiance of its characteristic neighborhood. Conclude your first day with a visit to the Unterlinden Museum, where art and history converge for two enlightening hours. Day two takes you to the majestic Chateau du Haut Koenigsbourg, a castle that promises to transport you back in time during your one-hour visit. Follow this with the grandeur of Palais du Rhin and the modern political landscape at the European Parliament Strasbourg, each offering an hour of cultural enrichment. Unwind amidst the greenery of Parc de l’Orangerie to round off the day. Your final day is dedicated to the spiritual grandeur of Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, a historic site that captivates for an hour, before spending the remainder of your day in the enchanting district of Petite-France, a place that truly embodies the fairy-tale essence of the region. This 3-day itinerary promises a blend of history, culture, and the undeniable charm of France's storied towns.

• Day 1: Enchanting Strolls and Historical Marvels in Colmar

Little Venice

Begin your Colmar adventure with a visit to the picturesque Little Venice, a charming neighborhood that seems to have leapt straight out of a storybook. With just an hour to spend, you'll want to soak in the serene atmosphere as you stroll along the Quai de la Poissonnerie. The colorful half-timbered houses reflecting on the calm waters of the canal create a perfect backdrop for your first memories in this Alsatian gem.

Attraction Info

• Quai de la Poissonnerie, 68000, Colmar, France
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open 24 hours

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

St Martin's Church

A short walk from the quaint canals, St Martin's Church awaits as your second stop. This historic church stands as a testament to Colmar's rich architectural heritage. Spend an hour marveling at its impressive Gothic structure and the intricate details that adorn its facade. It's a spiritual retreat that offers a peaceful contrast to the bustling streets outside.

• 18 Pl. de la Cathédrale, 68000 Colmar, France
• Open on Mon-Sat,8:15am-5:45pm;Open on Sun,10:00am-7:00pm

Vieux Colmar

Next, immerse yourself in the heart of Colmar by exploring Vieux Colmar, the old town, for a couple of hours. This characteristic neighborhood is a vibrant tapestry of cobblestone streets, traditional Alsatian eateries, and shops brimming with local crafts. Allow yourself to be transported back in time as you wander through this living museum of Alsatian culture.

• 68000 Colmar, France
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour

Unterlinden Museum

Conclude your day with a cultural deep dive at the Unterlinden Museum, housed in a former convent. As an art gallery that boasts an extensive collection ranging from medieval masterpieces to modern art, it offers a two-hour journey through the ages. The museum's highlight, the Isenheim Altarpiece, is an unmissable sight that encapsulates the artistic spirit of Colmar.

• 1 Rue des Unterlinden, 68000 Colmar
• Open on Mon, Wed-Sun,9:00am-6:00pm

Where to Stay Tonight

La maison des tetes, mercure colmar centre unterlinden.

• Day 2: Medieval Marvels to Modern Wonders in Colmar

Chateau du Haut Koenigsbourg

Begin your second day with a journey back in time at the Chateau du Haut Koenigsbourg, a majestic castle perched atop the Vosges mountains. As the first stop of the day, this fortress offers a panoramic view of the Alsace region, perfect for an early morning adventure. Spend an hour exploring the castle's ancient walls, towers, and rooms, each telling the tale of medieval times and the art of warfare. The Chateau du Haut Koenigsbourg is not just a historical site; it's an immersive experience into the chivalric era, complete with restored interiors and a collection of medieval weaponry.

• D159, 67600 Orschwiller, France
• Suggested tour duration: 1-3 hour
• Open on Tue-Sun,9:15am-5:00pm;Open on Mon,10:30am-5:00pm

Palais du Rhin

Next, descend from the heights of the past to the grandeur of the Palais du Rhin, a symbol of historical significance in the heart of Strasbourg. This palatial building, once the imperial residence of Wilhelm I, stands as a testament to the region's tumultuous history and Franco-German cultural blend. Spend an hour marveling at the architectural splendor, the intricate facades, and the stately rooms that have witnessed pivotal moments in history. The Palais du Rhin is not just a monument; it's a narrative etched in stone, reflecting the evolution of power and politics in Alsace.

• Palais du Rhin, 2 Place de la République, 67000 Strasbourg, 法国
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour
• Open on Mon-Thu,9:00am-12:00pm,2:00pm-5:00pm;Open on Fri,9:00am-12:00pm,2:00pm-4:00pm

European Parliament Strasbourg

Continue your cultural exploration at the European Parliament Strasbourg, the emblematic seat of European democracy. This modern edifice represents the town hall of Europe, where decisions shaping the continent are made. Dedicate an hour to understanding the significance of this institution, its role in fostering unity, and the architectural symbolism that conveys a message of transparency and cooperation. The European Parliament is more than a political landmark; it's a beacon of hope and collaboration in a diverse Europe.

• Rue des Forges, 21000 Dijon
• Open on Mon-Sat,9:30am-11:59pm

Parc de l’Orangerie

Conclude your day with a serene stroll through Parc de l’Orangerie, the city's oldest park. This green oasis offers a tranquil retreat from the urban hustle. Spend your final hour of the day meandering through lush pathways, past the lake, and around the mini-zoo. The park's natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection on the day's adventures. Parc de l’Orangerie is not just a park; it's a haven of peace, a place where nature and culture harmoniously coexist.

• Rue de la Chouette, 21000 Dijon
• Open from 7:00am-8:00pm

Garrigae Villa la Florangerie

Le jean-sebastien bach.

• Day 3: Spiritual Mornings and Enchanting Evenings in Strasbourg

Cathedrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg

Begin your final day with a serene visit to the Cathédrale Notre Dame de Strasbourg, a majestic symbol of Gothic architecture. As the first light of day caresses its intricate façades, you'll be captivated by the church's historic grandeur. Spend an hour marveling at the towering spire and the stunning stained glass windows that tell tales of a bygone era. This spiritual sanctuary is not just a feast for the eyes but also a tranquil start to your day, setting a reflective tone before you delve into the vibrant streets of Strasbourg.

• Place de la Cathédrale, 67000 Strasbourg
• Open on Mon-Sat,8:30am-11:15am,12:45pm-5:45pm;Open on Sun,2:00pm-5:15pm

Petite-France

As the day unfolds, immerse yourself in the storybook charm of Petite-France, Strasbourg's most picturesque district. With its entire day dedicated to exploration, you'll wander through cobbled alleys lined with half-timbered houses, each corner revealing a new vista more enchanting than the last. Petite-France is a living canvas where the past and present blend seamlessly, offering endless photo opportunities and cozy spots to relax by the water's edge. Let the day gently slip away as you soak in the fairytale ambiance of this unforgettable quarter.

• La Petite France, 67000 Strasbourg
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

Hotel & Spa Regent Petite France

Pavillon regent petite france.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Rail route of the month: vines on the line from Avignon to Lyon, France

Our slow travel expert takes the train through the Rhône’s wine country, hoping for grand cru views and a glass of Condrieu

T rains and wine make natural partners, be it a glass of crisp white over a leisurely lunch in a restaurant car while cruising through the Alps or a rail itinerary that meanders through a region noted for its fine wines. Many of Europe’s most prized wine regions lend themselves naturally to exploration by rail.

Take the train from São Bento station in Porto to Pocinho, for example, for fine views of the estates that have underpinned the port trade. Other classic European wine regions where trains weave through vineyards include Tokay in Hungary, Germany’s Moselle valley, the Ebro valley in Spain (for fine Rioja) and Switzerland’s Lavaux region where one grand cru white, made from Chasselas grapes, even plays up the rail connection: the Massy family’s classy Dézaley is called Chemin de Fer .

North from Avignon to Valence

It is a tempting rail-wine connection that brings me to Avignon on a damp early spring day, to explore the Rhône valley. Few travellers are around. Avignon Centre railway station looks handsome with its yellow and white walls. This is the jumping-off point for the regular slow trains to Lyon (a journey of two and a half hours). This regional rail route once carried grand express trains, but no longer. The TGVs dash north to Paris on a high-speed line that tracks well east of the Rhône valley. Only regional trains stick to the old valley route, along the way taking in a roll call of grand appellations that line either side of the Rhône as one follows the railway upstream from Avignon. The railway passes Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Hermitage, while later in the journey there are fine views across the river to Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie.

Slipping out of Avignon Centre on the blue-and-white train bound for Lyon, there are views to the left of the city’s ancient walls, then we cross the Canal Crillon. We have barely left Avignon’s suburban sprawl when we pause at a station called Sorgues-Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Not a vine in sight, but a few moments later, the distinctive low hill which is home to Châteauneuf-du-Pape’s classiest vineyards is visible away to the west, while on the other side of the railway the rough Provençal countryside stretches east to the Vacqueyras wine district and, in the distance, the hill country around Gigondas and Beaumes de Venise, the latter noted for its aromatic Muscat.

Our train loops slightly west to serve Orange, after which we have our first real encounter with the main channel of the River Rhône. It isn’t all pretty – we pass cement works, graveyards of abandoned cars and nuclear power plants.

Halfway through the journey, I stop for lunch in Valence where the elegant design of Valence Ville railway station recalls the architectural idiom of the Grand Trianon at Versailles. I know this route well, and in either direction a stop at Valence is mandatory. Coming from the north, it’s the first town that embodies the energetic vitality of the scented south of France, and heading north it’s a chance to bid the south adieu . And embrace the famous vineyards that lie ahead.

Beyond Valence, the valley sides close in and the countryside, now a little greener, hosts vineyards from which come powerful red wines made from the Syrah grape, and many opulent whites, the best of which reflect the finesse of three very contrasting grapes: Marsanne, Roussanne and Viognier. The latter brings the prospect of a heady perfume of orange blossom, apricots and almonds.

Northern Rhône vineyards

Leaving Valence, there’s a view over the Rhône to Cornas, renowned for its assertive, peppery reds. Then we cross the River Isère and soon we are cruising past a litany of celebrated vineyards. Signs mark the prized parcels of land owned by illustrious winemakers like Chave, Chapoutier and Jaboulet.

There’s a neck-craning view of a chapel high on a slope above the railway. Not any chapel but the one which dominates a parcel of land in Hermitage known as La Chapelle, associated with revered red wines that develop gently over decades in the bottle.

To the left, the slow-flowing waters of the Rhône and to the right the gentle slopes draped with vineyards of the Crozes-Hermitage appellation. Across the river is Saint-Joseph. But the best is yet to come. For lovers of the Viognier grape, and I count myself among their number, the high point of this journey is Condrieu and Chateau-Grillet. The steep slopes of both appellations are visible on the other bank of the river as we approach the station at Saint-Clair-Les Roches where I stay overnight in the Hotel Bellevue (doubles from €115, room only).

It wins no prizes for architectural ambition, but among the hotel’s many redemptive qualities are a Rhône view as fine as its name implies, good food, and access via a bridge over the river to the Condrieu vineyards on the west bank.

“We call that Guigalville,” says the waiter at the hotel gesturing to the vineyards over the river and referring to the family who have done so much to promote the wines of Condrieu and neighbouring Côte-Rôtie. So the next day, I take a local bus to Ampuis to visit the Guigal estate and taste some local wines.

The Condrieu is a star, with its perfect balance of acidity and fruit. Then it’s back to Saint-Clair and the onward train north up the valley to Lyon. There’s a tantalising view across the river to the turreted Château d’Ampuis, home of the Guigal family. Our train pauses at Vienne, a riverside town famous for its Roman remains. Then we run non-stop to Lyon, a hop of 20 minutes, passing through Seyssuel where ambitious young winemakers are buying up land amid rumours that its wines could offer all the finesse of Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie.

Now the last of the vineyards are gone and we enter Lyon, passing factories and oil refineries, power stations and sewage works. I note that the train I am on continues beyond Lyon to Mâcon, giving the option of extending my wine tour north to include Beaujolais and the southernmost portion of the Mâconnais.

I am tempted, but Swiss whites beckon, so I alight at Lyon and make tracks for the Lavaux region on the north side of Lake Geneva (Lac Léman) where I have an appointment with a glass of Luc Massy’s grand cru Dézaley Chemin de Fer.

Travel details

There are 11 direct regional trains each weekday from Avignon Centre to Lyon. The service is less frequent at weekends with nine direct trains on Saturdays and seven on Sundays. The one-way fare from Avignon Centre to Lyon Part Dieu via the Rhône valley is €40.70. Purchase at the station before departure or in advance via Rail Europe for £36 (tickets priced in sterling no longer carry a booking fee).

Nicky Gardner lives in Berlin. She is co-author of Europe by Rail: the Definitive Guide (Hidden Europe, £18.99). To support the Guardian and Observer, order your copy of the 17th edition from guardianbookshop.com . Delivery charges may apply.

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N.B. tourism minister defends pricey trip to United Kingdom, France

Tammy scott-wallace says new brunswick can learn ‘best practices’ from windsor castle, palace of versailles.

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New Brunswick's tourism minister is defending a trip she and her top officials took to the United Kingdom and France that helped her deputy minister rack up a $77,000 travel bill last year.

Tammy Scott-Wallace said the trip last September included meetings with a number of tour operators and public relations firms in London and Paris that have contracts to market the province to potential visitors from the two countries.

"That's incredibly important. It's a good day's work and it's a good seven days' work for me, I'll tell you that," Scott-Wallace said.

Her deputy, Yennah Hurley, sat next to her as she spent more than an hour responding to questions about the trip from Liberal MLA and tourism critic Isabelle Thériault during a meeting of the legislature committee studying budget estimates. 

As first reported by CBC News, Hurley's expenses for the trip totalled $12,328, part of the $77,710 overall she claimed last year.

Scott-Wallace's trip cost $10,199.

"What did it give the taxpayers of New Brunswick, that you went there for eight days?" Thériault asked.

"It's really not clear what you did, except visit some places. Like, you have to face the music."

Two other officials from the Department of Tourism, Heritage and Culture also made the trip.

Scott-Wallace acknowledged that no travel conferences or tourism trade shows were part of her schedule.

But she said it was important to meet with the tour operators and public relations firms hired to represent the province in the U.K. and France to rebuild connections frayed during COVID-19 travel restrictions.

"These are key markets for our province," she said.

Departmental staff then "built an itinerary," Scott-Wallace said, that included visits to Windsor Castle, Stonehenge, the British Museum, the London Eye and the Palace of Versailles — all of them expensed to taxpayers.

N.B. tourism minister defends pricey European trip

The visits by her officials to the Palace of Versailles and Windsor Palace — which she pointed out she did not visit herself — provided insights into managing "built heritage," the minister said.

New Brunswick has "similar sites, but on a smaller scale, absolutely," Scott-Wallace argued.

"There are best practices all over the country, all over the world, and when we are there having meetings with stakeholders, it's important we learn those best practices while we're there." 

She also said 45-minute tours offered at the British Museum in London could be a model for an abbreviated tour of the New Brunswick Museum in Saint John offered to cruise ship visitors.

She called the London facility "truly a new, modern-age museum, and I think the people of New Brunswick deserve to have a modern, state-of-the-art museum." 

No one from the New Brunswick Museum was part of the London visit but it was set up at the suggestion of the Saint John museum's staff, Scott-Wallace said.

Thériault told CBC News she wasn't satisfied with Scott-Wallace's responses.

"I didn't get clear answers," she said.

Scott-Wallace said New Brunswick recorded 122,600 "visit nights" from French tourists in 2023, worth $11.6 million in revenue, and 121,000 from U.K. visitors, worth $18.2 million.

Trips to the province from the U.K. were up 23 per cent last year, compared to 2022, while trips from France were up 12 per cent. 

Asked if Premier Blaine Higgs or someone else approved the trip in advance, Scott-Wallace said such trips are normal for the department.

"It is budgeted for. It is part of the work that we do," she said.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Provincial Affairs reporter

Jacques Poitras has been CBC's provincial affairs reporter in New Brunswick since 2000. He grew up in Moncton and covered Parliament in Ottawa for the New Brunswick Telegraph-Journal. He has reported on every New Brunswick election since 1995 and won awards from the Radio Television Digital News Association, the National Newspaper Awards and Amnesty International. He is also the author of five non-fiction books about New Brunswick politics and history.