Ultimate France Travel Itinerary: Best Places to Visit

This France travel itinerary begins in Paris, where grand boulevards and historic monuments set the tone. A morning visit to the Eiffel Tower offers breathtaking views over the city, followed by a leisurely stroll along the Seine to Notre-Dame Cathedral. The artistic treasures of the Louvre provide an afternoon of cultural indulgence, with a relaxed evening spent at a classic Parisian bistro.

A morning train ride to Versailles reveals the extravagant palace of Louis XIV, with its shimmering Hall of Mirrors and meticulously manicured gardens. Back in Paris, the afternoon is best spent wandering through Montmartre’s cobbled streets, where artists sketch in Place du Tertre and the Sacré-Cœur offers stunning panoramic views. A lively evening at a traditional cabaret or jazz club captures the city’s timeless spirit.

Leaving Paris behind, the journey continues to Normandy, where the charming port town of Honfleur delights with its colourful harbour and medieval timber-framed houses. A seafood lunch by the water is a must before exploring the historic streets. The evening is spent in Bayeux, home to the famous tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England.

A day dedicated to history begins with a visit to the D-Day landing beaches, where poignant memorials stand as a tribute to the events of World War II. The American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer offers a moment of reflection, followed by a visit to the dramatic cliffs of Pointe du Hoc. The evening is a quieter affair, sampling Normandy’s famous cider and camembert cheese.

The half way point on this France travel itinerary, and the enchanting Mont-Saint-Michel rises from the tidal waters like something from a fairytale. A morning visit allows for peaceful exploration of its winding alleys and abbey before continuing south to the Loire Valley. The evening is spent in a château hotel, indulging in the region’s fine wines and elegant cuisine.

The Loire Valley is a dream for lovers of history and architecture. Château de Chambord impresses with its extravagant turrets and sprawling grounds, while the graceful Château de Chenonceau spans the river in picturesque beauty. A leisurely afternoon in a vineyard introduces the finest wines of the region before a relaxed evening in a charming riverside village.

A morning train to Bordeaux brings a change of scenery, where grand neoclassical buildings and world-class vineyards await. A guided wine tour through the surrounding Médoc region offers a taste of some of the best vintages in the world. The evening is spent along Bordeaux’s scenic Garonne River, enjoying a meal infused with local flavours.

A high-speed train to Avignon introduces the lavender-scented landscapes of Provence. The imposing Palais des Papes stands as a testament to the city’s medieval grandeur, while a countryside excursion to the Luberon’s picturesque villages provides postcard-perfect scenery. The evening is all about Provençal cuisine, with a focus on fresh herbs, olive oil, and fine rosé.

A morning train from Nice to Monaco offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the tiny principality. A visit to the famous Monte Carlo Casino and the Prince’s Palace provides a taste of its regal charm. A leisurely walk along the harbour showcases superyachts and stunning coastal views. Returning to Nice in the afternoon, the evening is spent enjoying fresh seafood along the French Riviera’s sun-kissed promenades.

The final day of this France travel itinerary is spent in Marseille, where the historic Vieux-Port bustles with life. A boat trip to the Calanques reveals dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters, a breathtaking natural wonder. Before departure, a bowl of the city’s famous bouillabaisse offers a final taste of France’s rich culinary heritage, a fitting farewell to an unforgettable journey.