A country filled with a rich history, fabulous culture, beautiful nature, mouth-watering food and fabulous Champagne and wine, a trip to France will not disappoint. This two week itinerary will take you through the highlights of what this country has to offer. From the Eiffel Tower to the incredible French Alps, there is so much to experience!
Paris
Day 1:
As the most common hub for flights and trains, you will probably arrive first in Paris and are eager to start your two week adventure. Make your way to your accommodation, drop off your bags, put on your comfortable shoes and it’s time to hit the ground running.
Eiffel Tower
No trip to Paris is complete without a visit to this iconic location. After all, were you really in Paris if you didn’t visit the Eiffel Tower? To avoid long lines, purchase your tickets in advance including a skip the line pass. There will still be a line, but it will be shorter. You have two options to make your way to the top, the elevator or the stairs. There are a total of 1,665 steps from the ground to the top, but only the first 674 are open to the public for climbing. After spending the better part of your day sitting in transit to Paris, it is time. Buy in for the view: climb 674 stairs!
Rue Cler
Now that you have made it down from the Eiffel Tower, head over to one of the most picturesque Parisian streets to purchase food for your picnic. Breads, cheeses, fruits, and pastries, are all available. Gather up the foods that catch your eye as you stroll down this street.
Champ De Mars
And now, we eat. In the beautiful park with the Eiffel Tower as a backdrop, it is time to find a spot to settle down and enjoy the fruits of your stroll (as well as all of the other goodies)!
Seine
Walk along the Seine river and enjoy the scenic views as you move towards your next destination.
Pantheon
The first monument in Paris of this magnitude, the Pantheon sits in the Latin Quarter and has been used throughout the years as either a religious setting or a symbol of French patriotism.
Montparnasse Tower
For one of the most breathtaking views of Paris, visit the 56th floor and observation deck. Be sure to arrive in the hour before sunset and be prepared to stay until the sun has fully set to experience as the city goes from day to night with the beautiful colors of the sky in the golden hour in between.
Day 2:
Notre Dame
With greater significance than the church in the “Hunchback of Notre Dame,” this medieval gothic Catholic cathedral is one of the most iconic backdrops of the city.
The Louvre
Home to the Mona Lisa and several other of the world’s most famous works of art, this historic Paris landmark is also one of the world’s most visited museums!
Place de la Concorde
Adjacent to the Champs-Elysees, this is the largest public square in Paris.
Champs Elysses
Sitting between the Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe, this avenue is 1.9 kilometers long and 70 meters wide.
Arc De Triomphe
One of Paris’ most famous monuments, the Arc de Triomphe stands at center of the Place Charles de Gualle at the edge of the Champs-Elysees and at the center of the 12 surrounding avenues.
Montmartre
After exploring some of the most significant symbols and monuments of Paris, it’s time to head to this iconic neighborhood best known for its bohemian atmosphere, lively nightlife,cute narrow cobblestone streets, beautiful white church, and for the artists who created their village here over a century ago. Whether you choose to stop by the famous Moulin Rouge at the edge of the neighborhood or not, you must spend your afternoon and evening exploring this unique part of town.
Normandy
Day 3:
Start off your day bright and early by meeting at the assigned spot for an organized tour to Normandy and Caen. We suggest this as the most convenient way to visit as it will provide you with a guide that will be able to also provide background information of the significance of each of the stopping points along the trip. The following stops may be included in your tour:
US Military Cemetery
Rouen Cathedral
The Church of Joan of Arc
We will point out that it is also comfortable to rent a car and visit the various stops by yourself. You will be able to see more, but will not have the privilege of a guide. Of course, private tours can also be booked.
Champagne Region
Day 4:
Today you will be visiting the Champagne region of France, known for this very specific sparkling wine. (Side note, did you know that sparkling wine that comes from anywhere other than this region is simply that, sparkling wine and not champagne?)
Though it is rare for us, this is the second day that we would recommend an organized tour. Yes, it is possible to do this trip yourself via car or train, but the convenience of an organized trip combined with the detail oriented specifics, make it worthwhile. A knowledgeable guide will take you to the region, explaining historical significance of landmarks in Reims and guiding you to the tastings at one of the famed vineyards.
After enjoying your dinner in Paris, it is time to pack your belongings and prepare for an early departure tomorrow morning.
Lyon
Day 5:
Croissant and coffee in hand, pick up your rental car and begin the scenic drive south east to the city of Lyon. This is a long drive of about 5 hours, so we recommend starting early and breaking it up with a stop for a short hike and some fresh air.
Morvan Regional National Park
Just about half way along the drive is this beautiful national park that offers a variety of nature trails to enjoy. Whether you are in the mood for a longer hike or a short trail walk, or really just a view stop for photographs, there are some great options not too far off of the main route to Lyon. (For about an hour trail walk, check out: Moulin Cadoux et Bois De Champ Queue)
It will probably be mid-afternoon by the time you arrive in Lyon and have checked in to your accommodation. Time to put those legs back to work and wander around this city filled with history, painted walls, beautiful views, and adorable cafes.
Fourvière Hill
A beautiful and unique district of Lyon, Fourviere Hill is known as “the hill that prays” and is located in the western part of the city. Known for its many incredible panoramic viewpoints, the hill was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998. To make your way up to these panoramic views, you’ll have to make your way up the slopes of this hill. While there is a funicular, we suggest heading the long way up by climbing the steps of Montee des Carmes-Dechaussees and Montee Nicolas de Lange. Spend the afternoon wandering around.
Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Day 6:
Place Bellecour
One of the largest pedestrian squares in all of Europe, Place Bellecour is in many ways the heart of Lyon. Complete with a ferris wheel and the statue of Louis XIV, you can look up to the nearby hilltop of Fourviere which you visited yesterday.
Old Town Lyon
Known in French as, Vieux Lyon, this Old Town sits at the edge of the Saone River. The best preserved neighborhood in all of Lyon, it is easy to admire the Renaissance architecture and alleyways. As you walk around, try to picture this high end neighborhood as the home to the wealthy. Be sure to walk along Rue Saint Jean street and weave through the nearby alleys.
Lyon Cathedral
While the Lyon Cathedral is in Old Town, it deserves a separate mention. The Cathedral not only stands well above the neighboring buildings, its beauty inside is incredibly ornate, and it is complete with an astronomical clock dating back to 1598! An interesting fact is that the perpetual calendar that is part of the clock was originally designed to make it to 2019.
Parc de la tête d’ Or
The largest urban park in all of France, this park provides for a peaceful and quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. With a variety of places to explore and things to do, everyone can enjoy it here. Among them are:
- Botanical Gardens
- Rose Garden
- Greenhouse
- Zoo
- Lake (with boat rentals)
- Playgrounds
- Karting
- Mini Boats
Annecy
Day 6:
This morning you’ll be making your way to one of the most beautiful cities in France, Annecy. Undoubtedly a paradise for hikers, this gorgeous alpine town is just under a two hour drive from Lyon and is a must visit to make a trip to the French Alps complete.
Croix de Sevrier – 3 Part Circuit
Even before heading into town or checking into your accommodation, we suggest making this your first stop out of Lyon. Sevrier sits close to the lake, but the mountains climb high above the charming village. After an initial climb through the forest, the trail guides you along a ridge with 3 distinct viewpoints that lookout over the lake. You can’t miss them as each one is quite distinctively marked with a cross. Across the lake you can get a glimpse of tomorrow’s hiking choices, seeing the beautiful mountains of Mont Baron and Veyrier as well as the tall peak of La Tournette. This may be a short hike, but is definitely worth the views and a perfect way to end your drive and start off your time in the beautiful French Alps.
After making your way down it is time to check in to your accommodation, drop off your belongings and hit the town.
Old Town
Filled with its picturesque colorful buildings sitting upon quaint cobblestone streets, this is the quintessential definition of a French alpine old town. Sitting right along the main canal, the views are endless and your eyes will be pleased in any way you look. Wander through the Old Town, taking it all in. Enjoy the canals, the shops, the cafes and more. There are several points of interest to see in this area.
Rue Royale
A bit larger than its neighbors, stroll down this street with several beautiful commercial shops and cafes.
Palais de l’Isle
Built on a small isle in the middle of the Thiou River, this has become to be known as one of the symbols of Annecy.
Place Sainte-Claire
A beautiful pedestrian square that is a must see while in Annecy.
Cathedrale Saint-Perre
Built in the beginning of the 16th century, this cathedral is a national monument.
Château d’Annecy
Now home to a museum that exhibits art and historical information about the region, The medieval Annecy Castle was once home to the counts from Geneva.
Jardins de l’Europe
This lovely park sits on the edge of Lake Annecy and has the most beautiful views of the mountains.
Day 7:
You’ll start this morning relatively early and choose from one of the following two hikes. You can’t go wrong either way, it’s all about personal preference and experience. We suggest bringing plenty of water, a light picnic lunch, a windbreaker, and sunscreen,
La Tournette
The highest mountain around the Lake, the hike to the top is tough but absolutely worth it. The last part of the climb up to the summit includes a bit of rock climbing using cables and ladders to make your final ascent (though there are several via ferratas in the area, this isn’t one of them). The views from the summit are worth your efforts as they are simply breathtaking. On a clear day, you will even be able to see Mont Blanc ahead of you! Considered a difficult hike, this should take about 4 – 5 hours roundtrip.
Mont Baron & Mont Veyrier
You can start this hike to the two mountains adjacent to Annecy from the lake shore at the edge of town. You can shorten the hike by driving a ways if you prefer. You’ll climb through a s forest, but soon be on the mountains above already offering incredible views of the lake below. As you ascend up the mountain, the views become even more epic. Once you reach the top you will be able to walk across the scenic ridge that sits between the peaks of the two mountains. While also taking about 4 -5 hours roundtrip, this beautiful hike is less difficult than the former, while still offering breathtaking views.
Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard
This medieval castle as it stands today was erected during the 10th century. The castle in of itself is unique, but the way that you see it perched against the backdrop of mountains above Lake Annecy makes you feel like you are in a movie.
Côte d’Azur
Day 8: Nice
Nice, with its old-world opulence and year-round sunshine, and stunning seaside location is a must-see destination for all visitors to the Cote d’Azur. It offers stunning markets, magnificent architecture, and great dining options
Рrоmеnаdе dеѕ Аnglаіѕ
Stroll along Nice’s iconic promenade with a view to the sea, aside a lovely park and adjacent to the wonders of Old Town.
Fontaine Miroir d’Eau
Stroll along the lovely park until you reach this beautiful “mirror” fountain.
Old Town
There is no better way to get to know a historic town than wandering around the Old Town, or Vieux Nice in French. With many classically French roads and buildings, Nice’s Old Town is also home to many of the city’s most unique buildings and attractions.
Сours Saleya Market
Arguably the most popular site in the Old Town, this lively market has received awards even for its culinary delights. Vendors sell everything from fruits and vegetables to colorful flowers, meats, fish, spices and a variety of other ingredients. Of course, there are plenty of vendors selling prepared foods and snacks to be enjoyed during your visit!
Opera de Nice
Built, re-built, and re-built again, this site has been home to many performances from opera to ballet. Hosting diplomats, royalty, and the rich and famous, to view some of the most exquisite performances.
Ваѕіlіquе Notre-Dаmе dе l’Аѕѕоmрtіоn
A short visit to this neo-Gothic church to view its impeccable stained glass windows and tall towers is a perfect way to sum up your wander through town.
Саѕtlе Hill
Though no longer home to a castle as it was destroyed in 1706, make your way up the hill to enjoy this historic site with a beautiful view. The hike up is well worth it as it is still home to ancient defensive walls, a cathedral, landscaped grounds, and Cascade Dijon, a beautiful artificial waterfall.
Belanda Tower
Built on the site of the ancient acropolis, this medieval structure was a strategic defensive position guarding over the Baie des Anges at the south of the castle grounds.
Day 9:
Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild
Located between Nice and Monaco, the iconic Rothschild Villa is worth a half day visit. Built by Baroness Beatrice de Rothschild in the early 1900s this palace and its magnificent gardens were designed by famous French architect, Aaron Messiah. A tour of the inside of the palace is quite impressive, but the gardens are truly exceptional. Each of the 9 gardens have a different theme and are magnificently well-kept. We suggest stopping by the Villa’s cafe to pick up a basket to enjoy lunch in the gardens.
Plage Beau Rivage
A trip to the French Riviera is simply not complete without spending some time on one of the beautiful beaches. There are many beautiful beaches along the coast that it is hard to choose. This beautiful public beach is conveniently located next to the Old Town and its sandy shores are lined with a variety of restaurants with beautiful sea views for when hunger strikes. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy beach or on one of the many rentable loungers under the bright colorful umbrellas.
Gоrgеѕ оf Vеrdоn & Plateau de Valensole
Day 10:
Pick up a coffee and delicious French pastry and head out as early as you can.
Gorges du Verdon
The Verdon Gorge is a beautiful river canyon only a short drive from Nice sitting within a national park with the same name. With several trails to choose from, including multi-day hikes, this is a great place to be outside with the wonders of nature. Since we love adventure, our first choice is a half day canyoning trip here. There are a handful of reputable tour providers, but note that you should make arrangements in advance. If you opt for a bit less adventure, the Quinson Heights trail is absolutely beautiful and will take about 4 hours to complete while the Lower Gorges du Verdon hike takes about 3 hours round trip and also provides breathtaking views.
Plateau de Valensole
If you are visiting during the summer months (June – August), you will be delighted with the beautiful view and scent of lavender. A spectacular experience that shouldn’t be missed. The lavender fields of provence, particularly along the Valensole Plateau are truly stunning and unique. You can drive along and stop as you please to take photographs and enjoy the scenery.
Continue your drive from the lavender fields of Provence to Toulouse. Stop along the way as you please to admire the beauty around you, to eat, and well, to make the long drive as enjoyable as possible.
Toulouse
Day 11:
About half the distance between the beautiful French Riviera on the Mediterranean Sea to France’s western coast along the Atlantic Ocean, this major French city has a charm of its own. Mostly built from bricks at a time where this was a sign of poverty, these beautiful brick buildings give Toulouse its modern nick-name, the pink city. Depending on how the sun hits the bricks, the city changes from red to orange and from orange to pink. The large mansions, the beautiful gardens, this is a beautiful city to walk around and enjoy the magic of the city.
Church of the Jacobins
The burial site of Thomas Aquinas, this church is known for its bell tower which allows for views across the medieval town below.
Basilica of Saint-Sernin
A stop for those who trek along the Camino de Santiago from or to Spain, the vaults of this Basilica hold the largest holy collection outside of the Vatican.
Toulouse Cathedral
The true beauty of this cathedral comes from its imperfections. With a wide array of concepts and styles that have come together over the approximately 500 years since it was first constructed, there is much to be admired.
Capitole
The walls of Capitole mark the four seasons, memorialize the great history of the city, and celebrate love.
Hotel d’Assezat
Filled with mansions built throughout the 15th century by wealthy merchants who profited from the city’s pastel trade, this building is filled with an impressive collection of Renaissance and Impressionist art.
Aeroscopia Aeronautical Museum
Sharing the beginning of the creation of the world’s most iconic aircraft, this museum showcases the city’s deep aviation heritage.
Enjoy a dinner on one of the many patio restaurants and experience as the sun beautifully sets upon the brick buildings of the city.
Bordeaux
Day 12:
After a full night’s sleep and breakfast on the go (might we suggest a coffee and delicious French pastry, or two). Begin your drive from Toulouse to the beautiful region of Bordeaux, taking just over two hours to reach the city.
La Cite du Vin
Today is all about the wine that makes Bordeaux famous. La Cite du Vin is the starting place for everything about the wine of Bordeaux. Explore their website in advance to seek our wine tours, tastings, and even workshops
River Garonne
Enjoy a dinner cruise along the river, of course accompanied by some of Bordeaux’s greatest wines.
Day 13:
Today is for exploring the elegance and charm that makes Bordeaux so unique. A city poised with 18th century grand arches and gatehouses, this architecture and grace combines with a youthful vibe that is just full of life and beggin you to explore.
Pont de Pierre Bridge
Enjoy the beautiful view as the Pyrenees waters flow into the Bay of Biscay
Saint Michael’s Basilica & Bell Tower
This grand gothic church which is along the famous route of Santiago, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the other two main churches of Bordeaux in 1998.
Cathedrale St. Andre
A part of the designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Bordeaux Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic church and is where the Archbishop of Bordeaux sits.
Monument aux Girondins
Dedicated to the Girondin revolutionaries, this glorious monument has a fountain with a column.
Grand Theater de Bordeaux
Also known as the Bordeaux Opera House, this theater has hosted many performances since it was first inaugurated in 1780.
Rue Sainte-Catherine
Stroll down Europe’s longest shopping street.
Aquitaine Museum
Cave paintings of prehistory to the city’s history of becoming a prime trading port, there is plenty to see here.
Cenotaph of Michel de Montaigne
Take in the wise advice given to his fellow citizens, “the value of life lies not in the length of days, but in the way we use them”.
Now that you have used your day well, it is time to start the first leg of your drive towards Le Mans. We advise this as a way to split up the drive time to avoid spending 6-7 hours on the road on your last day (approximately 4 hours to Le Mans and another 2 to Paris)
Le Mans & Departure from Paris
Day 14:
You have a long but enjoyable drive ahead of you. After enjoying breakfast at a French bakery, hit the road for Le Mans before making your way to return your rental car in Paris and heading home.
The world’s oldest endurance racing event that is still held today, the 24 Hours of Le Mans race car race is held each year in Le Mans, France