10 day trip in france

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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10 Day France Itinerary: See the Best of France

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 10 day France itinerary aims to get you outside of Paris and exploring other equally incredible parts of the country.

My France 10 day itinerary covers just some of the highlights that France has to offer. It brings together the what to see in France in 10 days 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 driver and passengers, plus on that has plenty of space for your luggage.

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.

10 Day France Itinerary

Days 1 to 3 – Paris

Day 1 – Begin your 10 days in France by arriving in Paris. This itinerary assumes that you arrive in the morning giving you three quarters of a 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 4 to 5 – Loire Valley

Drive: The next stop on your 10 day trip to France is the Loire Valley. From Paris to Tours it is approximately 2.5 hours drive. Leave Paris early to make the most of the day in The Loire Valley.

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 6 to 7 – Lyon

Drive: Your Frnace 10 day itinerary continues in Lyon which is approximately 4.5 hours drive from Tours. Leave Tours early to make the most of the day and allow time for plenty of scenic stops along the way.

If the main reasons you’re visiting France are for the culture and the food then you can’t miss visiting Lyon on your travel travel itinerary. 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 8 – Aix-en-Provence

Drive: The next stop on your France vacation itinerary is Aix-en-Provence, located approximately 3.5 hours drive south of Lyon. Leave Lyon early to allow time for plenty of stops along the way.

Suggested Stop

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 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  Amphitheater  – During the summer months this ancient roman amphitheater 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 9 to 10 – French Riviera

Drive: The last stop on this 10 day France Itinerary is the French Riviera, with Nice, the main city along this stretch of coast approximately 5 hours drive from Aux-en-Provence 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 .

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 10 days in France you have a few options to extend you’re time there.

Check out my Two Week France Itinerary which covers a little more time in some of the places mentioned above, plus a few nights in the historic Normandy region.

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 .

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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4 thoughts on “10 Day France Itinerary: See the Best of France”

Hello and thank you for all the info. We want to start in Marsielle and hoping to see Provence, St. Tropez, Nice and Paris. From Paris we are going to Amsterdam. Do you think we can do that in 7 days prior to going to Amsterdam? Thank you

HI Cindy, Yes it is doable however it will be tight. I tend to choose quality time in each destination rather than lots of destinations. You could easily spend the whole 7 days in Paris and not get bored.

Hello, thank you for this information. I lived and traveled in France many years ago and still speak it pretty well. I am planning to take my 2 adult nieces on a 10 day trip- this itinerary looks great but a bit tight; I am in my late 50’s so I’m wondering if I can keep up. (:-)) Do you have an approximate suggestion of cost for this trip- just housing and food (not including air fare)? I’m also thinking of substituting Mont St. Michel for something else (maybe Lyon), but that may not be practical. Everything else you mentioned sounds perfect. We’re planning to go in late March 2023. Thank you!

We’re renting a car any suggestion we want to travel out of PARIS starting at CDG AND BACK TO CDG ( 10 days road trip_

Any nice route we want to see small town, architecture ,like the dordogne

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Ultimate 10 Days in France Itinerary: 10 Ways to See France in 10 Days in 2024

Some posts on this site contain affiliate links, meaning if you book or buy something through one of these links, I may earn a small commission (at no additional cost to you!). Read the full disclosure policy here .

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A 10 days in France itinerary creates a great amount of time to see some truly phenomenal parts of the country. It is enough time to sightsee, try delicious foods, and get a small insight into French culture. 

However, as it is a pretty large country, which is the best 10-day France itinerary? That can be a real challenge to come up with, especially as every visitor wants to see different things. 

So to help you figure out the best way to spend 10 days in France, I came up with the top 10 itineraries. Whether you want to road trip in the South of France or sip Champagne and see castles, these are the best ways to spend ten days in France. 

Ultimate 10 Days in France Itinerary Ideas

After having lived in France and traveled there many times, I’ve actually been on many 10-day trips. So, I made a list of great places to visit for your 10 days in France.

Option 1: Paris and South of France Itinerary in 10 Days

• Days 1-3: Paris
• Days 4-5: Avignon & Chateauneuf-du-Pape
• Day 6: Luberon Villages Trip
• Day 7: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis
• Days 8-9: Cannes
• Day 10: Nice

This is one of the more popular France itineraries as it combines Paris and the South of France, which are namely the most frequented places by visitors. 

But if you have 10 days in France, instead of 5 days in Paris and 5 in Nice, explore a bit more of the South of France and get a good feel of the magic of Provence. 

In this itinerary, you’d spend 3 days in Paris to see the main sights, spot a couple of hidden gems , and overall enjoy the City of Lights. Then, you’ll take a train down to Avignon and begin a 7-day South of France road trip . 

Now, I have a detailed itinerary for the South of France road trip, so you can look there for more information. But, you’d visit places like Avignon, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the Luberon Villages , Aix-en-Provence, Cassis , Cannes , and then spend a day in Nice . 

This enables you to have some beach time, explore places like Calanques National Park from Cassis, perhaps spot lavender fields in the Luberon (if you visit mid-summer), and enjoy all the tasty seafood and markets in the south. 

This itinerary is best during the late spring through early autumn months, so you can take advantage of the warmer weather for the beach. 

Where to Stay in Paris:

I have a whole guide about this , but here are a few hotels to choose from based on budget.

• Budget: Libertel Canal St-Martin
• Mid-Range: Au Manoir Saint Germain des Pres
• Luxury: Grand Hotel du Palais Royale

Where to Stay in Avignon:

• Budget: Regina Hotel
• Mid-Range: Aux Augustins
• Luxury: La Mirande

Where to Stay in Aix-en-Provence: 

• Budget: Hotel des Augustins
• Mid-Range: Maison Dauphine
• Luxury: Villa Gallici

Where to Stay in Cannes:

• Budget: Novotel Suites Cannes Centre
• Mid-Range: Hotel de Provence
• Luxury: Hotel Barriere Le Majestic Cannes

Where to Stay in Nice:

• Budget: Arome Hotel
• Mid-Range: Hotel Palais Saleya
• Luxury: Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Medditeranee

Option 2: Paris and the Alsace 

• Days 1-5: Paris
• Days 6-8: Strasbourg
• Days 9-10: Colmar

This 10-day tour of France includes spending 5 days in the Alsace region of the country. While you could do this anytime of the year, especially as the Alsace is lovely in the summer and fall, this is a perfect itinerary for the holiday season. 

I spent 5 days exploring the best Christmas markets in the Alsace last year, and it was super magical. Before that, you can enjoy Paris in 5 days , where you have plenty of time to see the main attractions as well as partake in the Christmas markets if you visit around the season. 

You even have time for a day trip to a place like Versailles ! 

Then, you’ll take the train to Strasbourg and use it as a base. Spend a day exploring Strasbourg (plus the markets during that time of year ), take a day trip along the Alsace Wine Route , and perhaps pop over to Obernai for a day to enjoy its Christmas markets or just its lovely small-town vibe.

After that, you’ll base yourself in Colmar for a couple of days where you can wander the town to your heart’s content and perhaps visit other towns in the area like Ribeauville , Riquewihr , and Kaysersberg . This is fantastic during the holiday season! 

Don’t forget to wander around Petite France in Strasbourg and Petit Venise in Colmar for dreamy canals lined with half-timbered houses. 

Where to Stay in Strasbourg: 

• Budget: Hotel Beaucour
• Mid-Range: Hannog Hotel & Wine Bar
• Luxury: Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa

Where to Stay in Colmar:

• Budget: Hotel Turenne
• Mid-Range: Colmar Hotel
• Luxury: Maison des Tetes

Option 3: 10 Days in Provence Itinerary

• Days 1-2: Avignon & Chateauneuf-du-Pape
• Day 3: Luberon Villages
• Day 4: Aix-en-Provence & Cassis
• Days 5-6: Cannes
• Days 7-10: Nice 

Want to spend the whole time in the South of France during your 10 days? Then, you can copy this road trip itinerary where you start in Avignon and visit Chateauneuf-du-Pape, perhaps swing by Pont du Gard during that time, and then continue on to the Luberon Villages for a day. 

Then, you’ll explore Aix-en-Provence and Cassis, have some beach time in Cannes , and then spend the remainder of your 10-day road trip in France in Nice.

This is very similar to the 7-day South of France road trip, only in this itinerary, you’ll spend more time in Nice. 

The main reason for that is that you can base yourself in Nice for several days while you explore places like Monaco, Menton, Eze, Villefranche-sur-Mer, and more. And Nice is a lovely city with tons to offer between its beaches and its markets. 

This is another great itinerary for the spring through autumn months! 

• Mid-Range: Aux Augstins

Option 4 of a France Itinerary in 10 Days: Paris, Dijon, and Annecy

• Days 1-4: Paris
• Days 5-7: Dijon
• Days 8-10: Annecy

Want a great mix of visiting Paris, a delightful foodie city where you can explore Burgundy, and some time in the Alps? This is the idyllic itinerary for you! 

I’ve actually done this itinerary and really enjoyed it! Start out in Paris for 4 days to see the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and other main sites as well as explore iconic neighborhoods like Saint Germain, Montmartre, and Le Marias. 

After that, hop on a train to Dijon, where you’ll stay for a few days to explore the lovely town, enjoy Dijon mustard at a shop, tour a pain d’epice factory, eat at delicious restaurants, and more. 

You’ll also take a day trip to Beaune , where you’ll bike around vineyards and enjoy delightful Burgundian wines. 

After that, hop on the train again to one of my favorite places in France: Annecy . This place is along Lake Annecy, a crystal-clear lake with stunning views of the Alps on the other side. 

Stay in Annecy for a couple of days to enjoy its sprawling market, take a paddleboat on the lake, wander around the old city, go for a hike or two, and definitely take a day trip to the Savoie wine region to sample some of France’s best wine (in my opinion).

Also, being in the Alps, you can enjoy all the hearty alpine fare like tartiflette, fondue savoyarde, and raclette. 

Honestly, this can be done year-round, but if you want to explore Burgundy on a bike, I highly recommend doing this in the summer and autumn months. 

Where to Stay in Dijon: 

• Budget: Hotel Le Jacquemart
• Mid-Range: Hotel Oceania Le Jura Dijon
• Luxury: Grande Hotel La Cloche Dijon

Where to Stay in Annecy:

• Budget: IBIS Styles Annecy Gare Center
• Mid-Range: Atipik Hotel Alexandra
• Luxury: Les Loges Annecy Vielle Ville

Option 5: Paris, Champagne, and the Loire Valley in 10 Days

• Days 4-6: Loire Valley
• Days 7-10: Champagne

The City of Lights, castles, and bubbly; the trifecta of a 10-day itinerary for France. In this France in 10 days itinerary, you’ll be sticking to central France. 

Start the trip off by spending a lovely 3 days in Paris, where you’ll wander along the Seine, take in some museums , perhaps take a food tour of Le Marais, and enjoy the Eiffel Tower as it glitters at night. 

Then, you’ll want to rent a car to enjoy a few days in the Loire Valley. This area is known for its delicious Sancerre wine as well as amazing chateaux. Chateau de Chambord is rumored to be the inspiration for the Beauty and the Beast Castle. 

The prior hunting lodge is a massively gorgeous castle with sprawling gardens. 

I also love Chateau de Chenonceau, otherwise known as “The Lady Castle,” as it has switched hands between various prominent women other the years, including Diane de Poitiers. This iconic castle crosses the river Cher, and the gardens here are full of flowers in the summer. 

And finally, you’ll end your trip with 4 days in Champagne . I recommend splitting time between Reims and Epernay so that you get the full experience. Both have famous and smaller Champagne houses where you can taste bubbly. 

So take your time to enjoy both the Champagne and major sites like the Reims Cathedral and Porte de Mars. 

This itinerary is best enjoyed from spring through summer. 

Where to Stay in the Loire Valley:

• Budget: Manoir du Parc Amboise
• Mid-Range: Chateau d’Artigny
• Luxury: Chateau de Nazelles Amboise

Where to Stay in Epernay:

• Budget: Les Epicuriens
• Mid-Range: Au Jeu de Paume
• Luxury: Les Suites du 33

Where to Stay in Reims:

• Budget: Mercure Reims Centre Cathedrale
• Mid-Range: La Caserne Chanzy Hotel & Spa
• Luxury: Domaine Les Crayeres

Option 6: Paris and Normandy 10-Day Trip

• Days 1-2: Paris
• Days 3-4: Rouen
• Days 5-7: Deauville
• Day 8: Bayeux
• Day 9-10: Mont St Michel

Okay, so you want to explore Paris for a bit and then Normandy. Perhaps this isn’t your first time in France and you want to see this region. Perhaps you want to see the D-Day beaches and Mont St Michel . 

Either way, spend 2 days in Paris hitting up the main sites or exploring hidden gems before embarking on a road trip through Normandy . Hit the road and stop by Monet’s home in Giverny before continuing on to Rouen. 

Then, spend a few days in the gorgeous beachside town of Deauville . In the summertime, you can enjoy the beaches here. From Deauville, you can explore places like Honfleur, Etretat, and even the Cider Route . 

And, of course, you cannot forget to visit the D-Day beaches as well in Normandy. Then, you must venture out to Mont St Michel for its astounding beauty. For the D-Day beaches, stay in Bayeux, and there are a few hotels in and nearby Mont Saint Michel for visiting the tidal island. 

This 10 days in France trip is perfect for summer and very early autumn, especially if you want to enjoy the beaches. 

Where to Stay in Rouen:

• Budget: Hotel Cardinal
• Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Hotel Rouen Centre
• Luxury: Hotel du Bourgtheroulde

Where to Stay in Deauville:

• Budget: IBIS Styles Deauville Centre
• Mid-Range: Villa Augeval Hotel & Spa
• Luxury: Hotel Barriere Le Royal Deauville

Where to Stay in Bayeux:

• Budget: Hotel Le Bayeux
• Mid-Range: Hotel Reine Mathilde
• Luxury: Chateau La Cheneviere

Where to Stay in Mont St Michel: 

• Budget: Aux Chambres du Mont
• Mid-Range: Hotel Mercure Mont Saint Michel
• Luxury: Ermitage Mont Saint Michel

Option 7: Normandy & Brittany Road Trip

• Days 1-3: Deauville
• Day 4: Bayeaux
• Day 5: Mont St Michel
• Days 6-8: Saint-Malo
• Days 8-10: Brest

Want to dive into Normandy and Brittany during a 10-day French road trip? Definitely split time between the two. Start in Deauville and enjoy the beaches, plus take a day trip over to Honfleur or Etretat. 

Then, be sure to check out the Cider Route, and then stop by Bayeaux for a night to see the nearby D-Day beaches.

On day 5, you’ll want to explore Mont Saint Michel before heading to Saint Malo and Brest for the remainder of the trip. 

While you could just use those days in the towns themselves, you can road trip around to see various sites like the Stones of Carnac, Closed City of Concarneau, castles, and even smaller Medieval towns like Vannes, or perhaps hop over for a day on an island. 

Like the prior itinerary, avoiding winter is best because this area can be quite rainy and cold. Instead, opt for late spring through early autumn for a lovely time. 

• Luxury: Chateaux La Cheneviere

Where to Stay in Saint-Malo:

• Budget: Hotel San Pedro
• Mid-Range: Hotel Beaufort
• Luxury: Hotel Oceania Saint-Malo

Where to Stay Near Brest:

• Budget: L’Amiraute
• Mid-Range: Hotel Oceania Brest Centre
• Luxury: Sainte-Barbe Hotel & Spa

Option 8: 10-Day Corsica Trip

• Day 1: Ajaccio
• Days 2-5: Bonifacio
• Days 6-8: Porto-Vecchio
• Days 9-10: Calvi

Perched just above Sardinia in the Mediterranean Sea is the lovely French isle of Corsica. Known both for its stunning seascapes and gorgeous mountains, Corsica is the beachy and mountain escape that you need. 

Start out in Ajaccio, as that is the most accessible via plane and boat. Head to the local market to try some Corse specialties. Then, be sure to stop by the Ajaccio Cathedral and learn more about Napoleon Bonaparte at the National Museum of the Bonaparte Residence. 

Next up is Bonifacio, where you’ll enjoy some iconic beaches and lovely churches in and around the town as well as the Citadelle de Bonifacio. Take some time to snorkel and kayak in the area, and definitely do the coastal hike to the lighthouse. 

Porto-Vecchio is up next. This is another great beach destination, and from here you can take a day trip to the Lavezzi Archipelago . 

Then, wrap up the trip in Calvi, where you can enjoy the lovely town, the Citadella de Cavli, and go on some hikes in the area. 

Between hiking, snorkeling, swimming, and exploring, Corsica is an idyllic 10-day trip in France!

Corsica is lovely to visit year-round. However, if you want to enjoy the beaches and go for a swim, it is best to visit between late May through September. 

Where to Stay in Ajaccio:

• Budget: Hotel Marengo
• Mid-Range: IBIS Styles Ajaccio Napoleon
• Luxury: Hotel Les Mouettes

Where to Stay in Bonifacio:

• Budget: L’Escale
• Mid-Range: Hotel Genovese
• Luxury: Hotel & Spa Version Maquis Citadelle

Where to Stay in Porto-Vecchio:

• Budget: Les Pavillons de Belvedere
• Mid-Range: Casa Santini X Roc Seven
• Luxury: Hotel Casadelmar

Where to Stay in Calvi: 

• Budget: Hotel Casa Bianca
• Mid-Range: Hotel Corsica
• Luxury: La Villa Calvi

Option 9 of the France in 10 Days Itineraries: Southwest Road Trip

• Days 1-4: Bordeaux
• Days 4-6: Biarritz
• Days 7-10: Lourdes/Pyrenees

A visit to the Southwest of France is always a good idea for lovers of wine and off-the-beaten-path hiking destinations. Spend several days in Bordeaux, where you can sample various wines from Saint-Emillon to Medoc. 

Also, Bordeaux has the fabulous La Cite du Vin museum dedicated to wine, the lovely Garonne River, the Bordeaux Cathedral, and, of course, several vineyards surrounding the town. 

You can take several day trips to various vineyards, including this fun bike tour ! And if you have a car, you can also take your own day trips to places like the Lascaux Caves! 

Then, head south to France’s Basque country to the lovely town of Biarritz. This coastal place has some beautiful beaches, and you’ll love partaking in all the delicious seafood. 

And finally, spend the last several days in the Pyrenees, with Lourdes as your base. This town is known for its Notre Dame de Lourdes church and pilgrimages to the grotto and is considered a holy place.

This is also a great place to base yourself to go hiking in the Pyrenees to places like Cirque de Gavarnie, Caves de Bedat, and Lac de Lourdes. 

For hiking and some time at the beach, definitely opt for summertime to visit. 

Where to Stay in Bordeaux:

• Budget: Mama Shelter Bordeaux
• Mid-Range: Hotel de Tourny
• Luxury: Hotel Cardinal Bordeaux

Where to Stay in Biarritz: 

• Budget: Le Windsor Grande Plage Biarritz
• Mid-Range: Sofitel Biarritz Le Miramar Thalossa Sea & Spa
• Luxury: Hotel du Palais Biarritz

Where to Stay in Lourdes:

• Budget: Hotel Sainte Marie
• Mid-Range: Grand Hotel Gallia Chappelle & Spa Nuxe
• Luxury: Belfry & Spa By Ligne St Barth

Option 10: Paris, Lyon, Annecy, and Nice

• Days 4-5: Lyon
• Days 6-7: Annecy
• Days 8-10: Nice

The last of the 10-day itineraries for France, this one combines quite a few great places to visit including some time in Paris, a couple of days in France’s gastronomical capital, a couple of days in the Alps, and finally, some beach time in Nice. 

Partake in a few days in Paris taking in all the art, architecture, and incredible neighborhoods. Then, spend some time in Lyon enjoying things like Vieux Lyon, the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière, and the 2,000+-year-old theatre, and definitely take a food tour ! 

Then, take the train to Annecy to enjoy its stunning alpine lake, delicious, hearty food, and its charming canals. 

And then hop back on the train to get some beach time in Nice as well as explore the Marché Aux Fleurs Cours Saleya, eat some delicious seafood, and perhaps take a day trip to places like Monaco, Eze, or Villefranche-sur-Mer. 

This is a great itinerary for late spring through early autumn for the beaches in the south. 

Where to Stay in Lyon: 

• Budget: Elysee Hotel
• Mid-Range: Mercure Lyon Centre Beaux Arts Hotel
• Luxury: Cour des Loges

These are the best possible ways to spend 10 days in France! Whether you want to enjoy the exciting city of Paris, frolic around castles, or have fun in the sun, these 10-day France itineraries offer a fantastic insight into this amazing country.

Which itinerary would you most like to use? 

Want more France travel? Check out these posts!

• Ultimate 5-Day French Riviera Itinerary
• Best French Gifts
• Top Day Trips From Annecy
• 23 Travel Tips for First Timers to Paris
• Best French Cheeses
• Top Things to do in Grenoble
• Best Time to Visit Paris
• Top Weekend Trips From Paris
• Romantic Things to do in Paris
• 55 Bucket List Things to do in France
• Most Beautiful Cities in France
• Annecy in Winter
• Paris Bucket List
• 1 Day in Paris
• Helpful French Phrases to Know
• Paris in January
• Paris in the Fall Guide
• Things to Do in Paris in the Summer
• Ultimate Paris 2024 Olympics Travel Guide
• Top 15 France Road Trips
• Best French Pharmacy Beauty Products
• Roussillon Ochre Trail Guide
• 31 Top Paris Gifts
• Ultimate Solo Travel Guide in Paris

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2 thoughts on “Ultimate 10 Days in France Itinerary: 10 Ways to See France in 10 Days in 2024”

I recently read your article about France itineraries, and I found it to be very informative and helpful. I am planning a trip to France soon, and I am using your article as a resource to help me plan my trip.

I am especially interested in the itinerary that you suggested for Paris, Lyon, Annecy, and Nice. I think this itinerary would be a great way to see some of the most popular tourist destinations in France, and I am excited to start planning my trip.

Yay thank you!!

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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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Your One Stop Shop For Travel Planning

10 day france itinerary – a jam-packed summer guide.

What do you picture when you hear the word France? Eiffel Tower?

While the best known sites in France are in Paris, there is so much more to see in France! In this 10 day France Itinerary, you will get to see the bustling city of Paris, drink authentic champagne where champagne was born, ride a boat through the Gorges du Verdon, run through the rolling lavender fields of Valensole, see the rich and famous in Monaco, and relax in the quaint beach town of Nice.

This guide will hit the best of France but also the hidden gems that are still untouched by tourism. I am truly SO proud of this itinerary and can’t wait to share it with you!

I want to fair warn you.. this itinerary is long and incredibly detailed. But if you are planning (or thinking about planning) a trip to France, I really encourage you to grab a cup of coffee and focus for this wordy guide. I dive into the details of my first-hand experience, tried and tested tips, what is & isn’t worth seeing, and SO much more.

Please keep in mind that this is a very active itinerary for people who like to cram in as much as possible to see. I have always believed there is a big difference between a vacation and traveling – and this is definitely not a relaxing, laying on the beach for ten days type of guide! 🙂

Are you ready for an epic summer in France?!

TIP: Best places to stay in each city are listed at the bottom of the guide! I did a lot of research on best locations to stay in and I highly recommend all of my choices!

There’s a chance that this post contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you), that goes directly towards little Rosie’s dog treats!

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Check into your Hotel, Explore your Arrondissement

Day 2: Paris Site Seeing (all the famous sites!)

Day 3: Day Trip to Champagne, France

Day 4: Louvre + More sight seeing

Day 5: Train to Provence

Day 6: Gorges Du Verdon

Day 7: Drive to Nice

Day 8: Explore Nice

Day 9: Day Trip to Monaco

Day 10: Travel Day Home!

Off-Set your Carbon Footprint:

If you plan to do a lot of international travel, it’s a good idea to off-set your carbon footprint! My favorite online resource is Carbonfootprint.com , where you can calculate the miles you are traveling, calculate the estimated cost to off-set your footprint, and partner you with a company! 🙂

10 Day France Itinerary

Okay, let’s dive into the good stuff! This 10 Day France Itinerary is JAM PACKED with all the highlights of France. There’s not many itineraries that take you to see the most famous sites in Paris, Champagne tasting in Champagne, flower fields in the country side, hidden gems, and ending with a relaxing beach day in the French Riviera! 

Day 0: Flight

If you are flying from the United States (like me), you loose an entire day due to travel time and the time change. The first day I don’t even count because you are taking a Melatonin and sleeping for as long as humanly possible!

Day 1: Check into hotel and explore your Arrondissement.

Once you finally get off that darn plane, check into your hotel and grab some dinner at a local cafe!

I go into the detail of best places to stay at the bottom of this guide, but I decided to stay in Le Marais district (3rd & 4th arrondissement) after much research. I couldn’t be happier with that decision! There are tons of little cafes and bars in this area, so you won’t need to worry about calling an Uber or hopping on a train to find a good place to eat.

For dinner, head along Rue Des Archives (if you are also staying in Le Marais district) where you will find tons of restaurants and bars to choose from for dinner. I would highly recommend sitting on the patio at Le Ju’ to enjoy their amazing crispy chicken salad and a glass of chardonnay!

Day 2: Best of Paris

This guide only includes 2 full days in Paris, so that means cramming in all the famous sites! Paris has SO much to see and do, so this is more for the first time visitor who hasn’t seen all the highlights of Paris yet.

Start your morning with a croissant and cappuccino at one of Paris’s many cafes. This is my favorite memory of Paris, getting a new pastry to try every day at a new cafe! There are endless to choose from on almost every corner.

After you’re fueled and ready to fight jet lag, it’s time to head outside of the city to see the massive and impressive Palace of Versailles . You can take the train directly to it, and it takes roughly one hour and costs only 7 euros to get there.

The Palace of Versailles is rated the #1 day trip from Paris from many travel sites!

The Palace of Versailles is open everyday except Monday, as early as 9am. This is an extremely popular site, for good reason, so with that comes tour buses. To avoid “cues” (AKA lines), I would try to get there as close to opening time as possible. I got VERY lost on the metro/train getting there, and had to stand in a cue for over an hour, not fun!

Some backstory on The Palace of Versailles, it was the royal residence of King Louis XIV who previously lived in the Louvre but decided it was too small… Yes, TOO. SMALL. That should paint a pretty picture of how enormous this place is!

While the inside of the castle is beautiful and well-kept, the gardens are what truly made my jaw drop. On the backside of the castle, there are gardens that go for miles and miles. It holds a vast forest, large lake where you can rent boats, fountains, and garden mazes that hold beautiful sculptures. If the weather permits, you can spend at least an hour exploring the gardens alone.

When it’s time for lunch, get back on the train and head towards the Eiffel Tower. If you are traveling to France in the summer and the weather is good, I would recommend going into markets to get food for a picnic. You can picnic at the Champ De Mars (the large park located in front of the Eiffel Tower), and even though this is a popular thing to do, there’s plenty of room for everyone!

TIP: I’ve read mixed reviews about if you can drink wine at the Champ De Mars, and I did not have a problem. People are literally walking around selling bottles of wine to people picnicking. I doubt you will run into any problems, but if you do, just be respectful and put the wine away. 

If you’re not a picnic fan, or the weather just isn’t good, head over to a cafe to get steak and frites, escargot, and a glass of wine!

From here you can spend some time exploring the area and shops. Some notable things around here are the Trocardero (photogenic area that gives a great view of the Eiffel Tower), Jardins du Trocadéro , Arc de Triomphe , or going to the top of the Eiffel Tower.

If you’re still kicking after all that sight seeing, I would recommend hanging out in that area for dinner so you get the chance to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle after the sunsets. Unfortunately, I didn’t get to see it on this trip because the thunderstorms were horrible (look how dark the sky is in the picture below), but it it truly beautiful!

I know this sounds like a lot on the first day when you are jet-lagged, but the best way to fight jet lag is to keep yourself as busy as possible so you aren’t tempted to nap. Plus you’ll be so exhausted from all your activities that it will be a lot easier to fall asleep when night time rolls around! If you only have 10 days in France, you will want to whip yourself into that time zone as quickly as possible!!

TIP: ALWAYS bring light sleeping medication to get you through the first few nights. My go-to is Melatonin , which is an all-natural vitamin that is actually good for you! You won’t wake up groggy like NyQuil or something too strong.

Day 3: Champagne tasting in Champagne, France

I have SO much to tell you about Champagne tasting in Champagne that writing a small, daily excerpt wouldn’t do it justice. I decided to create a separate guide for you!  I will go into the two regions to choose from here, but if you plan to go champagne tasting in Epernay, don’t forget to check out this guide !

If you don’t like champagne (which, I can’t trust you if you don’t) , there are plenty of other day trips from Paris you could swap this day out with.

There are two main regions of Champagne: Epernay and Reims. These two regions hold the most famous champagne houses and so much history! You truly can’t go wrong with either area, it will ultimately depend on what champagne houses you would want to see.

Reims, Champagne

Reims is home to the popular champagne brand, Veuve Cliquot. It also has a lot of history and an adorable village. This is the more popular of the two regions, based on what I saw online. The only reason I decided against Reims was because I love to see the actual vineyards when I am wine/champagne tasting. Reims did not offer that!

Epernay, Champagne

Epernay is home to the world famous Moet and Chandon / Dom Perignon champagne house. The tours are long and affordable and teach you SO much about champagne. Most champagne houses are along one road, but if you travel just 10 minutes outside of the downtown area, you will find the beautiful views of the vineyards. I chose Epernay because I felt it gave me more of a variety to see!

Again, you can read all about which champagne houses I visited and most photogenic spots in Epernay here !

Day 4: Visiting the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, & Montmarte

On the map, these seems incredibly far away from each other, but thanks to the Metro, this is all easily doable in a day!

Stop 1: The Louvre Museum

Due to the protests in May 2019, The Louvre now requires that you buy tickets in advance to secure a time slot. Reason is to minimize the number of people who are in the Louvre at a time, but don’t let that fool you because it will still be extremely busy, ha!

Like this photo!? It was taken on my I-Phone and edited with my ONE CLICK photo filters ! 

I would recommend buying the earliest possible time-slot, for many reasons: One, because you only have two days in Paris and you want to start your day as early as possible. Two, if you want pictures in front of the Louvre you should aim to get there before the crowds begin to roll in. And three, it is so empty the first hour the Louvre opens because the time slots begin to overlap.

Let me explain: The 11am time slot will most likely have people from the 9am and 10am time slot still. So if you chose the 11am slot, you have to share the space with your time slot, the time slots before you and guess what? In an hour… another time slot is going to be funneling in. So the earlier you go = less people to share the Mona Lisa with! I go into more detail with this decision on my Guide to the Louvre .

I chose the earliest time to go in the Louvre and the first hour was wonderful. We stayed about 3 hours, and I honestly would have stayed longer but the field trips and tour buses were taking over to the point where it was hard to walk through the exhibits.

If you want a detailed guide on how to buy tickets, how much it costs to visit the Louvre, what not to miss, and what to bring for a day at the Louvre, click here !

After your brain is overwhelmed by all the history of The Louvre, walk through the beautiful Tuilieres Gardens to see all the kids playing in the park, couples picnicking, and people relaxing by the fountains. The metro station to get to The Arc de Triomphe is located just outside the Tuilieres Gardens and is only a 15 minute ride.

Stop 2: Arc de Triomphe 

The metro will spit you out directly in front of the Arc de Triomphe . You will immediately see crowds of people surrounding the famous architecture trying get their perfect picture. The most popular spot being the circle that is located in the middle of the street where you can fit the entire Arc de Triomphe in your backdrop.

Click here to take your photos to the next level & edit like me!

I highly recommend NOT waiting in a long line to get that picture, because why would you want to re-create the same exact picture thousands of people are taking every day? There are so many good photo ops, just like the one pictured above!

You can climb the stairs to the top of the Arc de Triomphe that will give you one of the best views of Paris, because the best view (in my opinion) includes seeing the Eiffel Tower in the view! To get to the Arc de Triomphe, you first take an underground tunnel located on the north side of the Champs Elysees. To get to the top, you will have to pay roughly 10 euros to climb the stairs.

Stop 3: Montmarte

Head back to the same metro station to go up to Montmarte . Expect about a 20 minute metro ride, but if you think of it as your break from walking it won’t be too bad!

Montmarte is an art district that is filled with so much history. Perched on top of the hill, this picturesque area is where famous artists, like Picasso and Van Gogh, practiced their craft. Today, artists still gather in this district and are inspired by the beautiful views of Paris.

Some notable sights to see in Montmarte are:

• The church that is nestled on the top of the hill. This is where you can work off some of those croissants and climb the stairs to the top. When you get to the church, you will see the expansive views of Paris and artists painting along the street.
• This famous theater is known for the birth of the can-can dance. If you have the time and money to see a show, I would highly recommend it!
• Did you know Paris has a vineyard? Most people don’t, and lucky for you one of them is located right in Montmarte! You can see this quaint vineyard tucked between old Parisian buildings and cobblestone streets. Talk about a contrast!
• This adorable pink cafe is located on the most picturesque street of Montmarte. Rumors are, the owners of this cafe hate tourists and will threaten to call the police for taking pictures in front of their cafe. So visit at your own risk, ha!
• This art wall is composed of over 600 navy blue tiles that read “I love you” in over 250 different languages.

You could easily spend an entire day exploring Montmarte, so if you do have an extra day in Paris, I would recommend splitting this up into a full day. If you end up spending more time in Paris, I only scratched the surface on things to do! Click here for more ideas on bucket list things to do in Paris.

Day 5: Provence here we come!

The train ride from Paris to Marseille is only 3 hours and runs constantly throughout the day. This is the easiest, cheapest and least stressful way of getting to the south of France from Paris. You will need to reserve train tickets in advance using one of the train sites, I used RailEurope !

Once you arrive in Marseille, it’s time to pick up your rental car.

TIP: I would HIGHLY recommend picking up your rental car at a location a little bit out of the city. Marseille is very scary to drive in, especially right by the train station. Once you get just 10-15 minutes inland, the roads are very open, much like the USA. You also save a lot of money on the rental car itself by doing this, so win-win! 

I used the rental company Europcar and didn’t run into any problems. The agents spoke great English and were extremely helpful. The location that I picked up the car from was “Europcar Valentine,” located at 6 Av. de Saint Menet .

TIP: When reserving your rental car, make sure you look for unlimited mileage and automatic (if you can’t drive manual). Most European cars are manual and there will be an additional fee for automatic. 

After you get your rental car, it’s time to head inland to Valensole to see the lavender fields! If you are not coming during the blooming season, I would skip right to Moustiers St Marie, because there’s truly no point to go to Valensole if the fields aren’t in bloom.

Lavender blooming season is literally only two weeks. Whatever you read differently is simply not true. I read online that fields bloom in June and July, but what they didn’t tell me is they only bloom END of June and BEGINNING of July. I went in the beginning of June and all the fields were still green.

Driving through Valensole and seeing miles of rolling fields, I could only imagine how breathtaking it would have been. People travel from all over the world to see this beautiful sight! Luckily, I was extremely determined and drove around for over an hour to find a small field of bloomed lavender.

Psst.. don’t forget to follow along on Instagram! 🙂

TIP: If you are allergic to bees, DO NOT GO IN THE FIELDS. There are hundreds of bees in the fields and they will be buzzing all around you. If you are terrified of bees, I would just stay in the car or on the outskirts of the fields. 

After you got your lavender fix, it’s time to drive to Moustiers St Marie . The drive will be winding and narrow, but if you drive slow I promise you will be okay!

Moustiers St Marie is the most beautiful town I have ever been to. If I didn’t have a boyfriend and adorable puppy waiting for me at home, I really think I could’ve stayed there forever!

This quaint village is nestled on top of the mountain with beautiful views of the surrounding farm town. Walking around the village you will find locals selling lavender, a waterfall centering the town, and a narrow creek lining all the restaurants.

What makes this town so important on this perfect itinerary is the contrast between the bustling city of Paris and this quiet, homey and authentic French village. This is your time to unwind and appreciate the French culture!

My best memory of this town is the strong aroma of flowers everywhere you go and sound of birds chirping at all hours of the day. I did not see a single american tourist while I was there, which made the time I spent there all the more magical! This place still feels so untouched from tourism , I was hesitant to even put this on the itinerary.

Again, I put a “where to stay” section at the bottom of this guide, but I really want to emphasize how much Hotel Le Colombier made my stay! The family-owned hotel had outstanding views, perfect location, and the friendliest staff. Plus, they have a hot tub with a view, so need I say more?!

Day 6: Gorges du Verdon

This was by far my favorite day of the entire 10 day France itinerary. Actually, I would go as far to say my favorite place I have ever been to .

The Gorges du Verdon , also known as the Verdon Gorge, is located in the Provence region less than three hours from Nice. It’s home to towering green cliffs with vibrant turquoise water.

The gorge is only a ten minute drive from Moustiers St Marie, and you can park your car for free at the boat rental shop on Lac St Croix. After you park your car, I would first walk over to the bridge to see the famous lookout point that has the view of the entire gorge and lake. I am not kidding you, real tears were coming out of my eyes looking at this view.

These photo filters make those greens and blues look AMAZING! 🙂

Next up, time to rent a paddle boat to explore the gorge! You can rent a boat that fits up to five people for only $20 euros an hour. They recommend only two hours, but I extended to four hours and honestly could have spent longer on the boat.

The boats are rumored to sell out in the summer months, but I went down to the boat dock around 10:30 and there were plenty left. I assume if you show up around 12-1pm, they might sell out.

TIP: Pack a wireless speaker , bottle of wine and picnic to enjoy on the boat!

I have an incredibly long and detailed guide that is dedicated to the Gorges du Verdon. Click here to read the ultimate guide to traveling to the Verdon Gorge !

The drive from Moustiers Sainte Marie to Nice is a little scary for the timid driver! You will be winding down a mountain on narrow roads, but the upside is you will be on the inward side of the cliff.

My only recommendation is to go earlier in the day so the roads are not as crowded and to drive slowly.

Once you drive into Nice, you will drop off the rental car right away. Remember that most places in France close between lunch and dinner times, so make sure you don’t plan to drop off the rental car during closed hours!

TIP: There are a lot of one-way roads in Nice with some beach traffic. I would look into exactly where the rental car drop off garage is BEFORE driving into the city center to avoid getting lost.

The best way to describe Nice would be a perfect mix of Paris and Moustiers Sainte Marie. It is touristy and crowded, but has a very relaxing atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, spend the remainder of the day strolling along the Promenade De Anglais (Nice boardwalk), sipping on an aperol spritz, and soaking in the views of the French Riviera!

Day 8: Free day in Nice

Nice is not extremely large, but you would be surprised on how much there is to do there! It’s always nice to have a free day with no appointments to make. Some recommendations to choose from are:

• Great view of the Promenade des Anglais and a great way to work off all those croissants!
• Along the Promenade des Anglais, there are many beach clubs that you can go to. The one I went to (mainly because it was closest to my hotel) was the Beau Rivage Plag e. You can rent beach chairs for roughly 20 euros a day or you can hang out at their lounge that is situated right on the beach for free (with purchase of food/drinks of course).
• Stores in Nice have really cute things! Of course, they have the standard tourist shops with “I <3 France” shot glasses, but they also have a great selection of things your friends and family would ACTUALLY want!
• Renting bikes and riding along the Promenade des Anglais
• Markets of all types are constantly happening all throughout the city. Ask the front desk of your hotel if there are any markets going on that day!
• Nice Cathedral

Due to rainy weather during the daytime, I chose to do my souvenir shopping and then hang out at the beach clubs after the rain subsided.

Day 9: Day trip to Monaco

Monaco is known for it’s yacht-lined harbor, Monte Carlo gambling scene, the Grand Prix race, and being a great day trip from Nice.

There are two ways to get to Monaco (other than driving yourself): Taking the bus and the train. They take roughly the same amount of time, the only difference is the bus is extremely inexpensive (less than 2 euros each way).

I know what you’re thinking, taking the public bus to Monaco, one of the most luxurious cities in the world? Oh how the mighty have fallen…

Once you arrive in Monaco, you will immediately see the ragged coastline dotted with yachts the size of hotels. I recommend stopping for lunch at Cafe Milano that overlooks Port Hercule.

Everyone at this restaurant was so friendly and a BIG budget tip: They serve bottomless wine with your meal! If you order a glass and food, they keep refilling your glass of wine until you’re done with your food.

The main attraction to see in Monaco is the Monte Carlo Casino . When you arrive there, you will see the richest cars parked out front with security guards lining the entrance. You can walk into the main lobby free of charge, but to enter into the gambling area, you will need to pay 17 euros… just to get in . I couldn’t tell you what it looks like past the (free) lobby, because I am from Las Vegas, how impressed would I really be?!

Day 10: Fly back home!

The flight back is brutal and depressing, because who wants to ever leave the French Riviera?!

You can take the bus to the Nice airport for roughly six euros per person (check with the front desk of your hotel for current bus pricing). It will be far less expensive to fly into Paris before flying home, especially considering you will unlikely find direct flights from Nice anyways. Leave yourself about 3 hours in between your flight landing and leaving Paris.

That’s a wrap! This was truly the perfect 10 days in France. You will get to see a little bit of everything, giving you so many different experiences in one trip. It will honestly make you feel like you traveled to three different countries since these cities were all so different from each other.

Pssst… Don’t forget to check out my full guide to champagne tasting in champagne where I dive into all the details of which region to choose, exact train time recommendations, best champagne houses, and Instagram spots in Hautvillers! Read more here .

Where to stay in Paris?

Paris is huge, and there are endless areas to choose from that will give you completely different experiences. After a ton of research, I decided to stay in Le Marais district (3rd & 4th arrondissement) because of the local community, trendy shopping, and nightlife! This is known to be a gay district though, so if you have issues with that then I would pick a different arrondissement (but does anyone still have issues with that? I hope not, it’s 2019 people!) .

To get specific with the hotel I chose, Hotel Duo is located in Le Marais district and I seriously could not recommend this hotel enough! It had a beautiful design and spot-on location, surrounded by great shopping, restaurants and bars, and we were extremely close to the metro for anything farther. The design of the hotel was modern and had more amenities than I ever thought a Parisian hotel could hold! They had a bar, breakfast, fitness gym, AND sauna. Need I say more? You can browse pricing and availability here .

Not sure which arrondissement is best for you? I found this article by Solo Sophie to be extremely helpful when picking an arrondissement to stay in!

Where to stay to see the Gorges du Verdon?

The closest town to Gorges du Verdon is Moustiers St Marie, being only 10-15 minutes away. This town is absolutely adorable and feels like an authentic french village you would see in movies.

The village is very small, so wherever you stay within the city should be fine. I stayed at Hotel Le Colombier and truly could not recommend it enough. I would go as far to say I wouldn’t have loved the experience I had in this city as much if I didn’t stay at this hotel.

It’s located right outside the Moustiers St Marie city limits (and when I say that, I mean a 10 minute walk outside the village), but the good thing about that is if you rented a car, you won’t have to worry about driving through the narrow streets of the village.

The hotel had a friendly staff that hosted a big buffet breakfast every morning. They had a gorgeous deck that had a wonderful view of the valley and pool/hot tub that was open daily. This hotel felt so homey, I did not want to leave!

You can check pricing and availability here .

Where to stay in Nice, France?

There are endless options to stay in Nice, but I ended up choosing the Beau Rivage . This beautiful and modern hotel is located right on the beach and had it’s own beach club connected to it.

It was located extremely close to the tram station, bus station, train station, shopping areas and restaurants. Nothing was ever more than a 10 minute walk away! They offered free breakfast, but I personally felt it was overpriced, especially considering all the amazing cafe options right around the hotel.

You can check pricing and availability here. 

Don’t forget to check out my other guides on France travel: Champagne tasting in Champagne, France, The Ultimate Guide to the Louvre Museum & Gorges Du Verdon Guide !

Thanks so much for stopping by 🙂

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myperfectitinerary

A guide to champagne tasting in epernay, champagne, gorges du verdon guide – everything you need to know, you may also like, a perfect weekend in scottsdale: 3 jam-packed days, best things to do in scottsdale for couples, 23 unique things to do in la fortuna..., 10 days in costa rica – explore the..., 27 things to do in buena park for..., weekend in vegas itinerary – a perfect 3..., a jam-packed capri day trip from the amalfi..., an epic 2 week italy itinerary (with amalfi..., a romantic lake como itinerary for your italian..., utah national parks road trip – 14 epic..., 16 comments.

You should put this in a book. Simply amazing and so well thought out! This was so much fun to read I felt like I was enjoying the trip with you! Bottomless wine? IM IN! Thank you for sharing?

Thank you so much Tara!! 🙂

Well written, accurate, precise, exciting and amusing! I am sure the best detailed trip through France ever! It should motivate many to visit these beautiful places…the pictures are beautiful and professional.

Thank you, so glad you enjoyed it!! 🙂

Oooohhh La La – a very inspiring read indeed for those desiring to go to France!

This was so much fun to read I felt like I was enjoying the trip with you! Bottomless wine? IM IN! Thank you for sharing?

So glad you loved it! Thanks for reading 🙂

I hate to contradict you but your head would be spinning if you did all of this in 10 days. And you’d end up not feeling like you’d truly seen anything. For example, a nice trip to Versailles takes virtually a whole day. The train ride out of Paris to Versailles is about 45 minutes alone. Then the line to get in during the summer time will take another hour. And, if you walk out into the forest and pools, which is worth doing, you can forget about getting back to Paris anytime before 4 to 5 pm. If you are trying to see all of France in one trip you need to make it at least 2 weeks or longer preferably. Just sayin’.

Hi Gail, thanks for the comment! I of course wish I could stretch the trip out to more than 10 days, but unfortunately work would not allow it, ha! 🙂

It was definitely a jam-packed itinerary, but that is more my travel style. If you prefer slower paced travel, then I would recommend stretching this trip out to more than ten days or cutting out a few things. The day to Versailles was definitely a long one, but we started our day early since we were so jet-lagged and couldn’t sleep (I think we got there around 10am?) and finished up at Versailles around 1pm. Just in time for lunch near the Eiffel Tower!

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A Stunning France Road Trip – The Ultimate 10 Day Itinerary

There are many reasons why going on a France road trip should be very high on your European bucket list. The south of France is home to some of the prettiest towns and most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen, not to mention all of the incredible food and wine this region has to offer!

The best way to see southern France is by renting a car so that you can easily travel around at your own pace, stopping wherever and whenever you please. I’ve designed this epic 10 day France road trip itinerary to pass through the very best sights and stop in the most beautiful small towns and villages along the way.

So buckle up and get ready to taste all the delicious French cheeses, olives and wines, inhale the scent of fresh lavender, wander through the most charming medieval villages and drive through the most incredible landscapes you’ve ever seen. I promise this France road trip will not disappoint!

Table of Contents

France Road Trip Overview

• Nice – 1 night
• Moustiers-Sainte-Marie – 1 night
• Valensole Lavender fields
• Gordes – 2 nights
• Château de Tarascon

Pont du Gard

• Nîmes – 2 nights
• Carcassonne – 2 nights
• Cahors (option to spend 1 night)
• Rocamadour – 2 nights

The spectacular Gorges du Verdon, seen from the Pont du Galetas viewpoint

Recommended stops

Day One  – Depart Nice early + drive 3 hrs to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie taking the scenic mountain road that runs through the Gorges du Verdon. See the sights of Moustiers in the afternoon and evening.

Night One  – Spend one night in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie.

Day Two  – Wake up early and begin the 2 hour drive toward Gordes with a stop at the Valensole lavender fields for some photos. Stop once more in the village of Roussillon + take a walk around the Ochre Trail before continuing the drive to Gordes.

Nights Two & Three  – Spend two nights in the village of Gordes.

Day Three  – Spend a full day seeing the highlights of Gordes and surrounding countryside.

Day Four  – Depart Gordes in the morning + drive 50 min to Château de Tarascon. Spend 1 hour at the castle then drive 25 mins to the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard. Spend a few hours at the aqueduct and museum before driving a further 30 mins to Nîmes.

A perfect Carcassonne sunset

Night Four & Five  – Spend two nights in Nîmes.

Day Five  – Enjoy a full day of sightseeing in Nîmes, visiting the amazing Roman monuments.

Day Six  –Depart Nîmes and drive 2.5 hours to Carcassonne. Spend the afternoon and evening exploring Carcassonne.

Nights Six & Seven  – Spend two nights in Carcassonne.

Day Seven  – Visit all of Carcassonne’s highlights.

Day Eight – Drive 2.5 hours to the town of Cahors (option to spend 1 night here to break up the drive), spend a few hours exploring the town before driving 1 hour to the village of Rocamadour.

Nights Eight & Nine – Spend two nights in Rocamadour.

Day Nine – See the highlights of Rocamadour on the final day of the road trip.

Total Driving Time

13-14 hours, give or take depending on traffic

Longest Stretch of Driving

3.5 hours – Day 8, Carcassonne to Rocamadour with a stop in Cahors to break it up

Total Kilometres / Miles Covered

970 kilometres / 600 miles

France Road Trip Highlights

• The drive through the majestic Gorges du Verdon will take your breath away
• Picturesque villages of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Gordes and Roussillon are so beautiful they will leave a lasting memory
• The extremely well preserved medieval towns of Carcassonne and Rocamadour are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites to tick off
• Taste the delicious Malbec wine in the pretty town of Cahors
• Breathtakingly beautiful scenery will be seen along your drives including lavender & sunflower fields, vineyards, turquoise lakes, pretty castles and so much more!
• Discover the fascinating Roman history and well preserved 2000+ year old monuments in the lovely town of Nîmes

The magical village of Gordes

How Long Will I Need?

We completed this France road trip in 10 days, this is the minimum time you should allow to follow it however it would be very easy to extend this itinerary to 2 weeks if you prefer a slower pace. There are many other towns, cities and attractions to visit along the way that you could easily stretch it out if you are flexible.

We flew to Nice from England, but if you are arriving after a long haul flight you should allow for a few days to recover at the beginning of your trip. Spending a few extra nights in Nice would be a good idea.

Pretty scenes around Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Best Time to Visit the South of France

We did this road trip in late September/early October and the weather was mostly sunny and around 10-22°C. We had a few days of rain and the temperatures got cooler as we travelled north. For the most part, we found this to be a great time to travel as there were minimal crowds.

The summer months of June/July/August are definitely the most popular time to road trip the south of France but bear in mind that there will be a significant amount of people in each town and at every attraction. If you’re hoping to see the lavender fields, the best time is mid June – mid July.

Another great option would be to visit during the spring months of April, May or early June as the temperatures begin to rise and just before the summer crowds arrive. The south of France typically sees a lot of sun year round so if you’re not a fan of crowds, plan your trip for spring or autumn.

The breathtaking cliffside village of Rocamadour

The Best Travel Insurance for Road Trips

Don’t risk it. Road tripping without travel insurance is never a good idea! The reality of travelling overseas is that unexpected things can happen at anytime so the best thing you can do is be prepared.

For peace of mind while abroad,  Heymondo is one of the most reputable travel insurance companies that will provide you with simple and flexible coverage. Whether you are into adventurous activities or simply looking for trip cancellation and medical insurance, Heymondo has you covered!

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The Ultimate France Road Trip Itinerary – Beautiful Lavender Fields, Magical Cliffside Villages & Spectacular Landscapes

Chateau de Tarascon

Where to Rent a Car in Nice

Nice is a beautiful city but we were keen to get on the road so we decided to spend one night in Nice after flying in and then set off early the next morning. We recommend booking your car rental through this search tool as it’s hassle free and always has plenty of providers to choose from with reasonable prices.

One can never buy too many lavender sachets!

Driving from Nice to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie via the Gorges du Verdon

If you type “Nice to Moustiers” into Google maps, it will come up with the most direct route which takes just over 2 hours and passes through Cannes. The route we decided to take is a longer and slower drive (3 hours), but the extra time is 100% worth it!

We chose to take a route that passes through pretty villages, scenic mountain roads and best of all it runs straight through the spectacular Gorges du Verdon , also known as the Grand Canyon of Europe. The views along this route are absolutely breathtaking and possibly the best of the entire France road trip!

As you make your way toward the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll pass lovely little villages like Gréolières

Below are the exact driving directions for the route we followed including all stops along the way. You’ll notice that the roads are very twisty and mountainous. If you’re a bit apprehensive about driving along the edge of a gorge with a sheer drop on one side, you may want to try a different route.

We made our first stop in the mountain village of Gréolières to stretch our legs. You can easily pull over and take a walk up to the old church above the town for some nice views or grab a coffee in the town and continue driving. The next stop was in the small town of Comps-sur-Artuby where we had some lunch in a little cafe before starting the drive through the Gorges du Verdon.

The windy road that will take you through the gorge is called the D71 and it begins in Comps-sur-Artuby. As you make your way through the gorge there will undoubtedly be many spots you’d like to pull over for photos but as the roads are very narrow, there is a lack of space to stop most of the time.

The Balcon de la Mescla viewpoint – photos don’t do it justice!

Best Gorges du Verdon Viewpoints

Since you can’t pull over for every single view, I’ve saved you the hassle and listed the most epic Gorges du Verdon viewpoints in order so that you don’t miss the very best. You’ll also notice them marked on the map above.

• Balcon de la Mescla – An incredible viewing platform just as you enter the dramatic landscape of the gorge, there are no words to describe the view you will find there! There is plenty of room to leave your car at the entrance of this viewpoint.
• Verdon Gorge Viewpoint – On the edge of the windy road you’ll find this spectacular panoramic viewpoint at one of the highest points of the drive. There’s only a small area to pull over here so if it’s already full of other cars, you may be out of luck.

The jaw dropping Verdon Gorge viewpoint

• View of Aiguines Castle – As you descend from the gorge toward the town of Aiguines, you’ll turn a corner and immediately notice the most beautiful scene of Aiguines Castle and vineyard with the shimmering Lac de Sainte Croix as the backdrop. This is one of my favorite photos of the road trip! There’s a little pullout area just passed the view on your left where you can leave the car and walk back up the side of the road to take some photos.
• Pont du Galetas – Another absolute must-see view just before you enter the town of Moustiers. Once you cross the Pont du Galetas bridge there’s a car park to pull into on your left. This bridge is where you’ll find the most iconic and jaw dropping beautiful view of the Gorges du Verdon and the turquoise coloured lake!

Aiguines Castle view

Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

After you finish driving through the Gorges du Verdon, you’ll likely arrive in Moustiers by the afternoon. You’ll have the rest of the day to explore the town and see the highlights listed below.

Truly one of the prettiest towns in France , Moustiers is nestled in between two limestone cliffs overlooking the valley and lake below. Rich in history and full of small town Provence charm, the beauty of Moustiers doesn’t fail to impress!

The town’s history goes back to the 5th century when monks settled in the village and built a monastery. Over the centuries, Moustiers became known for producing beautiful hand-made ceramics. Pop into the Ceramic Museum in the town center to see over 5 centuries worth of Moustier’s gorgeous ceramics.

Highlights of Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

Explore the village – Moustiers itself is actually a very small town and can easily be seen in a few hours. Take some time to explore the charming streets and squares of the town center, finding postcard perfect scenes around each corner. Browse the little shops and pick out a souvenir or two to take home. Lavender sachets and hand-made ceramics are the perfect way to remember Moustiers!

Weekly market – If you happen to be visiting the town on a Friday, make sure to check out the market which takes place in the main square. Fresh loaves of bread, juicy olives, goats cheese, jars of tapenade, and olive oils are just a few of the delicious things you can expect to find there. The weekly market is another great place to pick up the perfect souvenir or gift to take home.

Ceramic museum – Admire over 300 beautiful hand-made ceramics that were once known as the very best in the region. The museum is home to over 5 centuries of locally produced antique ceramics. Tickets cost €3 per person.

A beautiful view from the trail to the chapel

Steep drops along the hike

Notre Dame de Beauvoir – Hike up to the 12th century chapel that’s built into the cliffs above the town. The hike to the church is very steep but it’s only 20 minutes and absolutely rewarding. The chapel itself doesn’t have much to offer but it’s the sweeping panoramic views of the valley, lake and rooftops of the town below that make it all worthwhile.

As you hike you’ll notice the iconic gold star that has hung between the two cliffs since the 13th century. There are many legends that explain the reason it came to be there but the true story behind the hanging star remains a mystery.

Lac de Sainte Croix – If you have any time left over while you’re in Moustiers, the pretty turquoise waters of Lac de Sainte Croix is a great place for a swim or to hire a kayak/small boat and explore the gorge.

Strolling the quaint streets of Moustiers

Where to Stay in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie

The town center of Moustier doesn’t have many options for parking but having a car makes it easy to stay at one of the many B&Bs in the countryside surrounding the town.

La Ferme du petit Ségriès B&B –  We chose to stay at this charming old farm house 5km from Moustiers. We really enjoyed the peaceful rustic vibes and beautiful views that can be seen from the property. There are also some lavender fields nearby to add to the atmosphere. We had a comfortable stay there and loved the delicious fresh breakfast they serve daily.

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Lovely buildings of Moustiers

Valensole Lavender Fields

During the summer months Provence comes to life with dazzling fields of lavender and sunflowers. People travel from all over the world just to stroll through the endless rows of purple flowers and witness the magic of this special time of year in the south of France.

One of the best spots to see the lavender fields in Provence is the Valensole Plateau. This area has a concentration of fields so you have the option to visit many of them if you wish to. The Valensole Plateau is located only 30 minutes from Moustiers and is conveniently en route to the next stop.

It’s not hard to find them as they are located all along the main road as you drive from  Moustiers to Rousillon, you’ll see them from the car. Zoom into the map below for a few suggested lavender field stops on your drive. Looking for a sunflower and lavender field together? Click here  for exact location.

This brightly colored village is surrounded by lush countryside and located in one of the largest ochre deposits in the world. It’s no surprise that Roussillon has officially been recognized as one of France’s most beautiful villages, it really is an impressive sight!

For centuries, ochre has been used in the area for things like art, textiles, and adding colour to houses (as you can tell by the orange/red colour of the buildings in the town). In the 18th century, ochre mining around Roussillon was in full swing when there was high demand for the red pigment. Ochre factories were once located around the village, some of which can still be seen today.

The picturesque village of Roussillon

Highlights of Roussillon

Town center – Take some time to stroll through the town’s narrow streets finding plenty of great photo opportunities of the pretty buildings as you go. Stop for lunch in a cafe or pick up an ice cream cone from one of the many ice cream shops.

Ochre Trail – You can’t visit Roussillon without talking a walk through the spectacular Ochre Trail . It’s an easy walking trail that will take you through an ochre quarry. The start of the trail begins near the village and you’ll have the option of taking the shorter path (30 min walk) or the longer route (50 min walk). For only €2.50 per person, this walk is definitely a highlight you shouldn’t miss.

Spend as long as you like visiting Roussillon because the next stop on this epic France road trip is only 15 minutes away. You’ll be spending two nights in Gordes so day two is all about exploring the lavender fields and seeing the sights of Roussillon.

When I think of the prettiest fairy tale village I’ve ever seen, Gordes is the first one that comes to mind. Perched on a hilltop and surrounded by the beautiful Luberon Valley, Gordes is one of the most popular and touristy villages in the south of France and it’s not hard to see why.

As you wander through the village, enjoy getting lost in the maze of steep, narrow alleys that extend from the town square, you’ll be sure to stumble on the prettiest corners and best viewpoints. Spectacular views can be seen over the surrounding countryside from various lookouts around the town.

The stunning hilltop village of Gordes

A perfect view lies around every corner in Gordes

Highlights of Gordes

Gordes Castle – It’s hard to miss the 11th century medieval castle that dominates the skyline of Gordes. It sits at the highest point of the town and can be seen from pretty much everywhere.

If you decide to go inside you can’t expect to see much in the way of historical artifacts or background information about the castle. Instead you’ll find an art exhibition on display.

We decided to give the castle a miss because most reviews were negative with people writing that they were disappointed by their visit. Unless you’re interested in art, this castle is best admired from the outside. Also, it’s really beautiful when lit up at night!

Gordes market

Drooling over fresh olives at Gordes market😍

Gordes market – If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Gordes on a Tuesday, make sure to check out the town market. We were excited to arrive in Gordes just in time for the weekly market and it did not disappoint. Colourful market stalls light up the town’s beige alleys selling everything from clothing, jewellry and lavender to olives, cheeses and tapenade!

Best Gordes viewpoint – To snap the perfect photo of Gordes, head over to the Gordes town viewpoint either in the morning or at sunset to catch this magical town lit up in the best lighting of the day.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque – Only a 10 minute drive out of Gordes, this gorgeous old abbey dates back to the 12th century when it was founded by monks. An added bonus to your visit is the stunning rows of lavender growing in the field next to the abbey during the summer months. Fascinating history and beautiful scenery, this is an absolute must-see!

Click here for the abbey’s current opening hours.

Abbaye Notre-Dame de Sénanque

Where to Stay in Gordes

Since you will be spending two nights in Gordes, it’s worth finding a nice place with a pool and some views. There are plenty of beautiful places to stay around Gordes but you need to be quick to book ahead, especially in high season! If you leave it to the last minute, you’ll be stuck with few options as Gordes gets very touristy.

La Borie en Provence

La Borie en Provence – We loved our stay in this B&B just outside of the town center. If you’re craving some down time, their pool with epic valley views is the perfect place to relax and soak up that golden Provence sunshine. They also serve one of the best breakfasts we had on our entire road trip through France.

A huge selection of cheese, fresh bread, fresh fruit and spreads were laid out for us each morning, the coffee was amazing too. I can’t recommend this place enough. During high season, the rooms book out pretty far in advance so it’s best to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

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The perfect French breakfast at La Borie en Provence

Chateâu de Tarascon

Located on the banks of the Rhône River, just 20 minutes south of Avignon is the medieval commune of Tarascon. The town is known for its impressive 15th century castle that sits right on the river’s edge. Chateâu de Tarascon is conveniently along the route to the next stop of the road trip making it the perfect place to break up the drive.

We didn’t actually plan to visit this castle but as we were driving from Gordes to Pont du Gard , we passed by Chateâu de Tarascon and just had to stop to check it out. The castle is massive and extremely well preserved considering its age. It was strategically built on the river that marks the western border of Provence providing defense and protection.

Highlights of Chateâu de Tarascon

When you first enter you’ll cross a bridge over the castle’s moat, which no longer has water. You’ll be given a map with some background history so you can explore at your own pace. The entire castle can be seen in about 1 hour.

Inside the castle there are many rooms, courtyards, and spiral staircases to see. Even though the rooms are not decorated with furniture, it doesn’t fail to impress. In the 18th century Chateâu de Tarascon was actually used as a prison and you’ll be able to see the prisoner’s graffiti on the walls in some of the rooms.

Once you climb to the top of the castle you’ll find a huge terrace with sweeping panoramic views over the river and surrounding countryside. The view alone is worth the ticket price! Directly across the river you can see another fortress, Château de Beaucaire.

What I loved about Chateâu de Tarascon was the lack of people. It was really quiet when we visited and it was nice to be able to explore the entire castle without navigating through crowds of people. We actually had the entire rooftop terrace to ourselves!

Opening Times: 9:30am-12:30, 2pm-5pm, closed on Mondays in the off-season

Click here for more info on opening times and prices

Tickets: €7.50

View from the rooftop terrace of Chateâu de Tarascon

As the France road trip continues, you will officially leave Provence behind as you make your way into the Languedoc region to see the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard. Crossing over the Gardon River, this masterpiece of Roman engineering was built in the year 50 AD. It’s the highest and best preserved Roman aqueduct to survive in the world!

Pont du Gard was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. It was built to supply water to the Roman city of Nîmes and it spans about 50 km long! Estimations say that it took around 1000 men working over a 5 year period to complete the aqueduct.

Highlights of Pont du Gard

The best part about visiting Pont du Gard is being able to walk across the entire aqueduct. Once you reach the other side, you can visit the Pont du Gard museum which is dedicated to the aqueduct and surrounding area. This museum provides a fascinating insight into Roman life, it really does not disappoint!

Step back over 2,000 years when you visit the elaborate and very well put together museum that covers the bridge’s construction and history. Enjoy seeing life sized reconstructions, virtual tours, and informative clips taking you into the world of ancient Rome.

Before jumping back in the car, make sure to take a walk along the river to get some different perspectives of the aqueduct. Take a seat and soak in the wonder of this awe-inspiring monument that has managed to survive undamaged through the centuries.

Walking across the magnificent Pont du Gard

If you’re hungry for lunch or a snack, there are a number of restaurants and cafes to pick from at the aqueduct.

Opening Times – 9am – 9pm daily

Hours of operation change throughout the year, check the official website for the most current times.

Skip-the-Line-Tickets – €9.50

Entrance to the museum is included in the price. Tickets can be purchased online before visiting, click here for more info . As with most other attractions, the queues here will get unbearably long during high season so it’s much easier to purchase beforehand.

Carrying on with the theme of Roman history, next up on this southern France itinerary is the beautiful city of Nîmes, also known as Nemausus in Roman Times. During the height of the Roman Empire, Nîmes was one of the wealthiest cities in Gaul and emperor Augustus was pretty keen to make that obvious.

Going back to 1st century AD, the city was thriving and money was being thrown into its growth/lavish architecture. This is when all of the spectacular Roman monuments that can still be visited today were constructed.

If you’re a fan of Roman history, the city of Nîmes is on par with Rome in my books. There are very few places left in the world besides Rome with a such an amazing concentration of extremely well preserved Roman monuments like you will find in Nîmes.

Nîmes is a beautiful city and of course there is more to see here than just Roman architecture but since you only have one full day to spend, adding any other attractions would make it feel rushed and not enjoyable. We only visited the highlights listed below and after walking around the city and sightseeing all day in the sun, we were definitely exhausted!

The incredible Nîmes Arena

Highlights of Nîmes

Arena of Nîmes – In the heart of the city, the magnificent Nîmes Arena has stood proud for the passed 2,000 years. It was built only a few years after the Colosseum in Rome and is considered one of the best preserved Roman amphitheatres in the world.

It may be significantly smaller than the Colosseum but it was built to hold around 24,000 people! The arena is still in use today for events, concerts and bull fighting several times per year. Visitors can enter the arena and audio guides are available for self guided tours.

Maison Carrée – This beautiful Roman temple is the only one of its kind left in such an impressive condition with all of its columns still surviving intact. Built under the rule of Augustus, it was once at the center of the forum or public gathering area of Nîmes.

Maison Carrée is only a 5 minute walk from Nîmes Arena. After admiring it from the outside, you can enter the temple to watch a short film about the history of Nemausus.

Jardin de la Fontaine – A stunning 18th century park featuring fountains, ponds, sculptures. The park is huge and very impressive with many details to admire. It was actually built over a sacred Roman spring which is still flowing today. It’s a great place to take a seat and relax.

You’ll pass through this lovely park on your way up to the Tour Magne from the Maison Carrée, see here for walking directions. You’ll also pass the Temple of Diane along the way, a Roman temple that was left in ruins.

Maison Carrée

La Tour Magne  – At the highest point of Nîmes, La Tour Magne overlooks the city from a hilltop and offers spectacular city views from the top. It’s one of the last surviving towers from the Roman wall that once encircled Nîmes.

To get to the tower, it’s an 11 minute steep walk up the hill from the Jardin. Once you arrive, you’ll be able to climb the spiral staircase inside to reach the panoramic viewing platform at the top. Don’t worry, the view makes all the walking worth it!

Tickets for Roman attractions  – I would recommend buying the €13 pass that gives you access to the 3 most popular Roman monuments: Nîmes Arena + Maison Carrée + La Tour Magne. I suggest that you start your day at the Arena and purchase the combination ticket there.

Click here for more info on ticket prices.

Strolling toward La Tour Magne

Walking tour of Nîmes – Explore the highlights of Nîmes on a 2.5 hour historic walking tour led by an expert local guide. Entrance to the Arena is included in your ticket. Check tour times and availability here.

Where to Stay in Nîmes

You’ll be doing a lot of walking around Nîmes so it’s best to stay somewhere central where you can easily access all of the sights by foot. Keep in mind that you’ll want to find a place that offers parking, most places in Nîmes charge extra for parking.

Appart’City Confort Nimes Arenes – This conveniently located B&B couldn’t be in a better spot. It’s right in the middle of the historic center of Nîmes and only 1 minute walk from the Arena! Some of the rooms even have a view of the Arena.

The rooms are spacious, comfortable and offer free Wi-Fi. A breakfast of fresh fruit, croissants, cheese and bread is served daily and underground parking is available for an extra cost.

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Jardin de la Fontaine

Carcassonne

Day six of this epic south of France road trip itinerary will start off with a 2.5 hr drive to the fortified medieval city of Carcassonne . The old town of Carcassonne is incredibly well preserved, its entire wall and castle are in excellent condition. The town really looks like something from a fairy tale with blue and red spiky turrets, towers and a perfect castle.

The town dates back to the 12th century but it had been destroyed during attacks in the middle ages and left to ruins. In the 19th century, the town’s walls and castle were fully renovated by a famous French architect named Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. He was responsible for major restoration projects of other French castles and cathedrals including the Notre Dame in Paris.

Carcassonne is a true masterpiece, it’s one of the largest fully preserved medieval cities in Europe and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. Since then it’s become very popular with tourism attracting over 3 million people from all over the world each year. If you visit during high season you should be prepared for some very big crowds filling the narrow streets.

Highlights of Carcassonne

Old town – As you enter the town by crossing over the draw bridge and stepping through the stone archway, it really feels as though you’ve been transported to another time. The narrow cobblestone streets and beautiful medieval buildings just add to the town’s charm.

I recommend taking a walk around the town during sunset and also when it gets dark. The towers and walls look absolutely magical when lit up at night. I don’t think we put our camera down the entire time we were there but some of our favourite photos of Carcassonne were shot at sunset/night-time.

The charming streets of Carcassonne

Château Comtal – Once home to a wealthy French family of the 12th century, this impressive medieval castle is one of Carcassonne’s most popular attractions. Inside the castle, you’ll pass through courtyards, a series of rooms featuring historical facts and then access the ramparts. For an extra €3 you can get an audio guide.

Walking the ramparts – Entry to the castle also covers your walk around the town’s walls which is definitely the highlight for most people’s visit to Carcassonne. Walking around the ramparts will give you all kinds of epic views. You’ll get many different perspectives of the castle, town and beautiful countryside that surrounds it.

Château Comtal

Skip-the-line ticket – €9.50

During high season the queue to enter the castle can be extremely long, there was even a queue when we were there in October. I would highly recommend purchasing a skip-the-line ticket online to save yourself some time when you get there.

Click here to buy your ticket for the castle and ramparts.

Le Pont Vieux – Take a walk down to the 14th century pedestrian bridge. From there you’ll get an amazing view of the town, this is also a nice spot to visit at night.

For the best view of Carcassonne, you should also walk over to the new bridge . This angle will give you the perfect shot of the entire walled city and old bridge in the foreground.

View of Carcassonne and Pont Vieux from the new bridge

Where to Stay in Carcassonne

Staying near the old town is definitely the most desirable location in Carcassonne. For this reason, rooms tends to book out months in advance. When we were booking our accommodation, there really weren’t many options left so we ended up staying at the Budget Ibis.

To be honest I had no complaints about our stay, breakfast was good, the room was basic but clean and there is free parking. The only thing it’s lacking is some character and it’s 1 km from the old town which isn’t ideal. That’s why I will recommend somewhere that we wished we could have stayed instead…

La Rapière – Only steps from the medieval town center, this lovely looking place has extremely high ratings on Booking.com. That’s no surprise since city wall views can be seen from the pool, dining terrace and even some of the rooms.

Free parking and breakfast is included in your stay. Based on its popularity, you’d need to book a room asap if you really want to stay there! If it doesn’t work out, there’s always the Budget Ibis …

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Spectacular views along the ramparts of Carcassonne

Cahors is a beautiful town in the Midi-Pyrénées region surrounded by vineyards dating all the way back to the Roman times. It’s located along the route as you drive from Carcassonne to Rocamadour making it the perfect place to take a break, stretch your legs and try some delicious wine! (not too much if you’re driving though…)

There are vineyards literally surrounding Cahors and many of them offer tastings. They also sell their wines at a much cheaper price than buying a bottle at a restaurant or shop. If you’re really into wine tasting and enjoy visiting vineyards, then perhaps spending an extra night in Cahors would be a great idea.

Medieval bridge of Cahors, Pont Valentré

Highlights of Cahors

Pont Valentré – The most iconic landmark of Cahors is the 14th century bridge, often referred to as the most beautiful medieval bridge in France. The bridge was fortified and strategically placed on the Lot River defending the town of Cahors from attacks.

Cahors is located on a peninsula surrounded by the Lot River so it only makes sense that the river would need to be protected. Taking a walk across Pont Valentré is a must when visiting Cahors, it’s also very photogenic (even on an overcast day) as you can see below!

Saint-Étienne Cathedral – The second most popular thing to see in Cahors is the massive 11th century cathedral in the heart of the town’s historic center. The architecture is very impressive and it’s worth taking a look inside to see the stained glass windows, inner courtyard gardens, and lots of intricate detailing.

Pont Valentré

Try the famous Cahors Malbec – The region that surrounds Cahors has been long known for its production of Malbec wine. For the wine connoisseurs out there, you might be thinking “hang on, didn’t Malbec originate in Argentina?” Nope! It was actually Cahors where Malbec grapes were first cultivated in the middle ages.

Malbec happens to be our favourite type of wine so you can imagine just how excited we were to visit Cahors and try it directly from the source. I can tell you, it really did not disappoint. Cahors is also known for its black wine which gets the name because of how dark and rich it is.

Cahors market – A colourful market is open on Wednesday and Sunday mornings year round near the cathedral in the historic town center. You’ll find fresh produce, cheese, olives and all the typical things you can except to see at a French market. It’s worth checking out if you happen to be passing through town on either of those days.

Trying the most delicious Cahors Malbec!😍

Where to stay in Cahors

Hôtel Le Coin des Halles – If you opt to spend the night in Cahors, staying near the historic center is the best spot to base yourself. This little hotel is in prime location directly next to the Cahors market in the old town. Perfect for being able to see the sights of Cahors by foot. Parking is also available here but it comes at an extra cost.

Brit Hotel Cahors – Le France – Another good option with high ratings and only a 10 minute walk from the old town and a 5 minute walk from Pont Valentré. A buffet breakfast is served here each morning and parking is also available for €5 per day.

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The final stop on this 10-day France road trip itinerary is the jaw droppingly beautiful cliffside village of Rocamadour in the Dordogne Valley. Driving from Cahors to Rocamadour only takes 1 hour and as you approach the village the roads become very twisty.

The village of Rocamadour is famous for its religious buildings that cling dramatically to the face of a cliff. It’s surrounded by a lush green valley which gives it an extremely unique and impressive appearance.

For many centuries Rocamadour has been a popular pilgrimage destination. Inside the religious buildings is a sacred shrine that is said to provide healing powers. In the middle ages, pilgrims from all over Europe made the trek to Rocamadour so that they could experience the healing benefits of the shrine.

Rocamadour – the prettiest village of them all!

Highlights of Rocamadour

Village center – It’s not very big and there is only one street but it’s so pretty and full of history. As you enter the 13th century gate and stroll along the main strip you’ll see ivy covered buildings, walk through medieval stone archways and if you continue all the way to the end, the cutest bakery I have ever laid eyes on.

Grand Escalier – Starting in the village center, this epic set of stairs is what once led pilgrims upward through the series of sacred buildings, some of them even climbed all 216 steps on their knees! The religious buildings and shrine are open to visitors so you’ll be able to go inside the churches and visit the famous shrine of Rocamadour.

*Tip* Remember to wear good shoes when climbing the Grand Escalier as the stairs can be quite steep in places.

Making my way up the Grand Escalier

Lovely views can be seen on the way up

Palace – If you continue walking up the stairs passed all of the sacred buildings, you’ll come to the 14th century palace at the top of the cliff. For €2 per person you can visit the palace grounds to see the breathtaking view of the amazing landscape and town below. You can’t enter the inside of the palace but the view makes it worthwhile.

Rocamadour viewpoint – For the absolute best view of Rocamadour, you should head to the l’Hospitalet viewpoint . This is the awe-inspiring view that everyone needs to see when visiting. As you look out to the village from across the valley, it really makes you wonder how it was even built hundreds of years ago! It’s such a spectacular sight.

Villages around Rocamadour – If you have the time and would like to see some more sights around the area, the Dordogne Valley is full of lovely little medieval villages dotting the countryside around Rocamadour.

These are some of the best:

• Collonges-la-Rouge
• Sarlat-la-Canéda

The prettiest bakery I’ve ever seen

Where to Stay in Rocamadour

The village itself is very small and doesn’t have many accommodation options to offer, not to mention parking anywhere nearby isn’t possible. It’s better to stay just across the valley from Rocamadour in the l’Hospitalet area. There are plenty of restaurants and hotels around there and it’s easy to reach the village by foot in just 10 minutes.

Logis Hôtel Le Belvédère – To mark the end of your road trip through the south of France why not treat yourself and stay somewhere really nice? This hotel is located in what could possibly be the best spot in all of Rocamadour. It’s right next to the viewpoint!

Watch the sun go down over the village from your room, relax by the pool or grab a glass of wine on the terrace overlooking the village, all for a surprisingly reasonable price. Free parking and a delicious breakfast is served daily.

Archway entrance to Rocamadour

Like I’ve said before a few times in this post, you really need to book far in advance to get the place you want in Rocamadour. During high season, the streets are overflowing with tourists and accommodation books out many months in advance. There are only 26 hotels in Rocamadour listed on Booking.com so you should get your room locked in asap!

►Browse more accommodation options in Rocamadour◄

After spending two nights in Rocamadour, on day ten of the France road trip you will make your way to the city of Toulouse to drop the rental car off at the airport and catch your flight home. The drive from Rocamadour to Toulouse is just under 2 hours making it the closest and most convenient city to fly out of.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this road trip itinerary and find it useful when planning your own France road trip. In my opinion the south of France was made for road trips, the landscapes and sights in between the towns are just too beautiful to miss out on if you were to take a train or bus instead.

If you think I’ve missed something important on this south of France itinerary or if you’ve tried this route and really enjoyed it, don’t hesitate to leave me a comment below 🙂 Happy travels!

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Hello and welcome to my blog!

I’m Ann, a free-spirited Canadian adventurer who quit my 9-5 to hike mountains, chase waterfalls and live life to the fullest!

A lover of road trips, good wine and off the beaten path destinations – you will find these topics covered in depth on my blog.

Travel has changed my life for the better and I want to show you how it can do the same for you!

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10 days in France - the ultimate France itinerary

Moving from Paris is never easy but the pain of leaving is somewhat eased upon discovery of the rest of the country. Heading south through France will first reveal medieval old towns packed with castles, then Roman cities and then alpine regions, all of it linked by way of lavender fields and vineyards. Then, before you know it, you’ve reached the azure Mediterranean coast with its yacht-filled marinas and casino resorts filled with the rich and famous. So, take what you know about France and leave it at the door, because for our ultimate France itinerary 10 days we’re all about that ‘quelle surprise’.

Tailor-Made France: Paris & Normandy

Discover the many faces of France on a single, diverse itinerary taking you to the City of Light, with its renowned art and architecture; idyllic Giverny, immortalised by Monet’s brush; and the historic beaches of Normandy, site of the D-Day landing.

from $9,995 /8 days

Saint-Tropez, France | Photo: La Coccinelle

Whatever and wherever takes your fancy, you’re bound to fall in love with the gourmet fare, classy ateliers and historic architecture nationwide

Welcome to France

Bienvenue messieurs, you are about to embark on a stylish European getaway to remember, spending 10 days in France travelling down through the country from the capital to the Côte d’Azur, passing stunning French countryside, vibrant second cities and alpine regions along the way. Seen by some 89 million visitors each year, there is no one way to build a 10 day France itinerary; you could follow our Provence itinerary 5 days , explore the best castles of Loire Valley , or perhaps you’d rather spend the entire time soaking up the sun in celebrity company on the French Riviera. Whatever and wherever takes your fancy, you’re bound to fall in love with the gourmet fare, classy ateliers and historic architecture nationwide.

Best time to visit France

Spring (April-May), summer (June-August) and autumn (September-October) are all good times to visit France, with balmy and sunny days common throughout. Though the summer is the most popular and hottest time (with highs of 28°C), spring has the added benefit of fewer crowds and temperatures ranging from 12-20°C. Autumn meanwhile is favoured as a time when rustic foliage takes over the mountains, forests and countryside to every photographer’s delight. Geographically speaking, you’re more likely to find Mediterranean weather towards the southern coast, while to the north – near the English Channel – wetter weather prevails. Not to be written off however is the winter season when the nation’s cities, especially Paris with its Christmas markets and cosy bistros, are set a-twinkling with festive cheer.

Photo: Michael Rodichev

Photo: John Jason

Getting around France

Boasting the most extensive rail network in Western Europe, French is a joy to traverse with or without a private vehicle. Trains are both fast and reliable and connect the majority of main towns, while buses fill in the gaps to more rural areas (though may be somewhat less reliable). If self-drive is an option, however, you won’t regret hiring a vehicle and going your own way along a fabulous network of autoroutes spanning both countryside and city limits. Though the motorway roads have tolls, they are a great way to avoid more congested routes. Look for the ‘routes nationales’ (or routes départementales) sign, marked ‘RN’ or ‘R’ beside the road number. Other minor routes marked ‘D’ are more scenic and usually free of traffic. If driving, be savvy by avoiding the big cities or major seaside resorts, particularly during high season and annual vacations in mid-July and the whole of August.

The ultimate France itinerary

Our dream France itinerary starts in the capital but soon moves out into the countryside, allowing for a completely new view of the nation with room for wine country escapes in Provence and sophisticated beach breaks in the Riviera. If a Loire Valley chateaux doesn’t excite, then hiking, trekking and skiing in the French Alps might be more your thing. But, if you’re anything like us, a nice balance of culture, history and outdoor activity, is exactly the way to go.

Photo: Rodrigo Kugnharski

Day 1-2: Paris

Needing no introduction, the City of Lights is our first stop to take in iconic art, culture and architecture by way of walking tours up the famed Champ Elysees, passing under the Arc du Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral and of course the Eiffel Tower. In amongst the grand landmarks, Paris continues to wow its many visitors at every turn. From wide boulevards to manicured parks, there’s always a place to take a rest, jumping on the metro or bus and sprawling out in the Jardin des Tuileries when walking gets too tiresome. From there, lose yourself in any of the city’s 20 arrondissements, people-watching while sipping on a café au lait among the spiralling streets. Art lovers will of course want to explore the Louvre, though the area around Montmartre is also a worthy stop, as the bohemian neighbourhood of Paris’ art world, home of the Sacre Coeur Basilica and fantastic city views.

Another way to get a unique view of the city is to take a Seine River cruise by night, passing by some of the city’s best architecture and landmarks lit up from below. Then, slightly outside of the city proper, the Palace of Versailles is every history buff’s dream spot, the grand former home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette set within manicured gardens. Venture inside the chateau to see their priceless collection of artwork and antiques, kept in pristine condition as though the revolution never happened. As for Paris’ gay scene, you’ll find it centred in the Marais, the old neighbourhood in the 4 th arrondissement where gay bars, cafés and shops play out among centuries-old buildings. Come day or night to move amongst the city’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community. Discover more ways to see the city, with our full Paris travel guide .

Photo: Paulo Marcelo Martins

Photo: Jeanbaptiste Burbaud

The region features a number of towns and villages each with their own series of stone towers, cupolas and banquet halls, all overlooking rolling wine country

Day 3-4: Loire Valley

It’s castles upon castles starting on day three, and if royal chateau life attracts you then you’re sure to arrive satisfied after your short train ride (or autoroute drive) from Paris to Loire Valley. Once a location of strategic importance at the mid-point between northern and southern France, the Loire Valley used to be the place to build feudal castles and plush palaces thereafter upon the picturesque river valley. Today a UNESCO Heritage Site, the region features a number of towns and villages each with their own series of stone towers, cupolas and banquet halls, all overlooking rolling wine country. Chateau Chambord is the most famous castle in the valley, built by King Francis I in renaissance styles across 440 rooms, a number of which are open to the public. Château d’Ainay-le-Vieil meanwhile is notable for its vast gardens and themed rooms which have housed the same family since 1467. Then there’s the gothic-style Bourges Cathedral in the town of the same name, said to be one of the most remarkable of its type in France, modelled on the Notre Dame and dating back to the 12 th century.

Driving the Loire Valley is certainly a good choice, but hiring a bike on a clear day is also a winner, allowing for several stops at various small villages along the way and all the more wine tastings! Whether red, white, rosé or sparkling, you can’t leave the various cities and towns without trying the local plonk, airing a bottle at each stop, from Orléans and Blois to Tours and Angers. Alternatively you can take a drive (or cycle) out to the source, sampling the grapes at any of the vineyards surrounding the valley.

Photo: Dorian Mongel

Day 5-6: Lyon

Hearing the wet roar at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, we can know we’ve finally arrived in Lyon, a city populated since Roman times as early as 43 BC. More recently within the last 500 years, Lyon has become one of France’s biggest industrial and financial powerhouses as the country’s third-largest city. As a result, Lyon boasts a range of world-class museums and cultural institutions, all centred on the Vieux (Old Town) where delicatessens, artisan shops and al fresco cafés line the cobblestoned streets beside famed Lyon monuments. Squeeze down the secret traboule passageways, once used as trade routes for silk during medieval times but now serving as short cuts towards the old town’s best bits, such as the Museum of Fine Arts with its mix of ancient Egyptian relics and modern works, and the Musee de Confluence particularly favoured among science and anthropology nerds.

From Lyon’s centre, we head up to the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourviere (otherwise known as the ‘upside-down elephant’) which is set some ways above the old town as a dominant feature on the skyline. Brave the steep stairway up to the basilica or take the funicular for a fee, pausing along the promenade for prime views over the city and its rivers. The town’s Roman Amphitheatre lies conveniently beside the basilica, allowing for a touch of ancient drama before completing the day with a spot of traditional Lyonnaise fare at a Bouchon restaurant (caution: may contain offal!)

Lyon | Photo: Saba Shakarashvili

Lyon | Photo: Jonne Makikyro

Day 7-8: Aix-en-Provence

Classier than you trying to pronounce its name, Aix-en-Provence, is a rural version of Paris set within rolling fields of lavender in the south of France. Although not quite on the coast, Aix-en-Provence is a popular stop for those en route to the Riviera, providing a leafier outlook amidst 17th-century plazas and grand avenues – such as the 440-metre long Cours Mirabeau – frequented by espresso-drinking students. Though a university city, these students are cooler than cool, allowing Aix to maintain its upmarket appeal while also being right on-trend. The outer ring roads may throng with traffic but the centre of Aix’ Old Town is reserved for pedestrians, meaning that you can wander the cobblestones carefree, browsing boutiques and scouting out artisan markets. Two of the town’s biggest attractions are the Pont du Gard – a historic Roman aqueduct – and the Palais des Papes in the once papal ruled area of Avignon. From there, it’s just a short walk over the Pont Saint Benezet to find evermore cafés, restaurants and art galleries, many of which pay homage to the local artist Paul Cézanne.

For more Roman history, it’s the Arles Amphitheatre you’ll also want to tick off while in Aix, an ancient stage still utilised to this day, especially in the summer months when concerts and outdoor performances kick off in earnest. Saint-Remy-de-Provence meanwhile provides a whole Roman settlement to get lost in, with ruins scattered over the now sleepy village, also on the map for having homed Van Gogh in his later years. To see Aix-en-Provence lavender up close, venture into the hills of Digne les Bains from June to August, stopping at the road side for soaps, honey and other fragrant souvenirs. From there, you can continue on a day trip towards Marseille’s Old Port, a destination in its own right with a whole host of shops, markets, cafés and bars, or, alternatively, wend your way through the Gorges du Verdon to eventually find the charming medieval town of Moustiers Sainte-Marie.

More days in Provence? Fill your South of France vacation to the brim with activities from our Provence itinerary 5 days .

Photo: Claudio Vincenti

Day 9-10: French Riviera

Last up on our itinerary for France is of course the French Riviera, a region that channels Cannes boat party glamour all year round. First up on the list of places to visit is Nice, a beach town with as much ruggedness as riches. Those who want to be seen will hop between the beaches and Corsica Island, but don’t forget about the Old Town where cobblestone streets meander outwards to meet artisan stores, flower-covered façades and tiny cafés for days. With just one more day to fill our French Riviera vacations, it’s Monaco that does the honour, just 30 minutes by train outside of Nice. Famed for its casinos and yachting community, Monaco drips with money, particularly around the marina and Le Palais des Princes de Monaco. There are however a few good things that come for free in Monaco, number one being the sunset view over the yachts and number two being the pop art exhibition at the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art, a building which also boasts a beautiful rooftop view. If that wasn’t enough, driving around the Formula 1 Grand Prix Circuit in a Ferrari (or a Peugeot!) is sure to make you feel like a champ.

Want to simplify luxury travel planning?

Whether you want a resort vacation, wildlife safari, city break, luxury cruise, wellness retreat, honeymoon, once-in-a-lifetime adventure or weekend escape, the trip curation experts at Mr Hudson make travel planning a breeze. Find out how we can handle the finer details of vacationing in style.

Monaco | Photo: Rishi Jhajharia

Photo: Maria Orlova

Photo: Anthony Delanoix

Photo: Alicia Steels

Aix-en-Provence | Photo: Despina Galani

Nice | Photo: Julian Hacker

Photo: Arno Senoner

Nice | Photo: Nick Page

Monte Carlo, Monaco | Photo: Mark de Jong

Photo: Antoine Paboeuf

Lyon | Photo: Nathan J.

Fondation Vazarely, Aix-en-Provence | Photo: Clement Dellandrea

Aix-en-Provence | Photo: Linh Nguyen

Photo: Matheus Frade

Photo: Meveen Anton

Lyon | Photo: Mitchell Henderson

Photo: Behzad Ghaffarian

Photo: Drapeau Noir

Paris | Photo: Pedro Lastra

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10 Day France Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 10 day France tour with TourRadar. Choose from 262 trips with 851 customer reviews, that range from 8 up to 10 days.

250+ France 10 day tour packages with 851 reviews

• Self-Guided Cycling

Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Orleans to St-Nazaire)

Fantastic trip. Hotels were tremendous, especially the meal in the hotel in Saint Florent-le-Vieil. Maps were good though I used my app Bikemap.net, to act as a Sat Nav. A couple of hiccups with luggaeew but minor in comparison with holiday organisation. Would certainly recommend.

• In-depth Cultural
• Christmas & New Year

Tailor-Made Best France Tour with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Coach / Bus
• Sightseeing

Magnificent France ( 10 days )

Castles on the River Loire: La Route Royal

La Belle France

• €150 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Burgundy & Provence with 2 Nights in Nice (Northbound)

Burgundy & Provence with 2 Nights in Paris (Northbound) 2024

Premium Best of France

Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Paris - Arles - Marseille

Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Paris (Start Paris, End Nice)

France Family Journey: From Paris to Normandy and Beyond

The tour was interesting, fun, and just the right balance of group and independent activities. The tour guides were knowledgeable, helpful, and very organized!

Burgundy & Provence with 2 Nights in Nice (Southbound)

Sensations of Lyon and Provence & Aix-en-Provence

• River Cruise

Active & Discovery on the Rhône with 2 Nights in Paris (Northbound) 2024

Burgundy & Provence with 2 Nights in Paris (Southbound) 2024

What people love about 10 day france tours, regions in france.

• Southern France (128)
• Northern France (73)
• Provence (41)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees (31)
• Normandy (28)
• Bordeaux & Dordogne (16)
• Loire Valley (14)
• Pays de la Loire (14)
• Burgundy (10)
• French Riviera (9)
• Alsace & Lorraine (6)
• Garonne (11)
• Dordogne (9)

Other Regions in France

• Southern France 10 day Tours (133)
• Northern France 7 day Tours (117)
• Northern France 10 day Tours (76)
• Southern France 7 day Tours (71)
• Alsace & Lorraine 7 day Tours (47)
• Provence 10 day Tours (43)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees 10 day Tours (31)
• Provence 7 day Tours (30)
• Normandy 10 day Tours (28)
• Northern France 2 week Tours (24)
• Loire Valley 7 day Tours (21)
• Pays de la Loire 7 day Tours (21)
• Ile de France 7 day Tours (17)
• Aquitaine & Midi Pyrenees 7 day Tours (17)
• Bordeaux & Dordogne 10 day Tours (16)
• Burgundy 7 day Tours (16)
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)

• Travel Planning Guide

10 Days in France: The Best Tours

Looking for the perfect 10-day getaway to France with a fantastic tour? We've carefully analyzed all of the possible tour options to France based on price, comfort, service, guest ratings, cuisine, and activities in order to find the absolute best 10-day tour options available. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed expedition, these guided tours offer the perfect length to indulge in the best of both worlds. From captivating excursions to tantalizing cuisine, get ready to experience the ultimate 10-day escape to France that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of wanderlust. Great for museums & attractions, food, nightlife, and beaches, France is a terrific destination. So, check out our curated list of tours below to get started!

• Highlights of France and Barcelona (End Barcelona, 10 Days) 10 Days, $3185.00
• In-depth Discovery of the French Riviera & Provence 10 Days, $3801.95
• Active & Discovery on the Moselle with 2 Nights in Paris 2024 10 Days, $5148.00

Which 10-day tour options are available in France?

Here are the important factors:

• 5 trip options analyzed
• $304 average price per day (USD)
• 4.62 of 5 average rating
• 49 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of tours lasting 10 days? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.62 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 49 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 5 tours lasting 10 days, you can rest assured that France has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 5 Best 10-Day Tours in France

Highlights of france and barcelona (end barcelona, 10 days).

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices
• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 10 days.

This exceptional trip offering by Trafalgar has received a 4.6 out of 5 rating. On this 10-day trip, visiting France, Monaco, and Spain, you can unwind while also making new memories. Along the way, this journey encompasses 10 destinations, including Arles, Carcassonne, Figueres, and Chartres. Paris will mark the start of your journey, while Barcelona will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 50 people, it's suitable for travelers from 5 and up. This extraordinary adventure also revolves around local culture and family-friendly activities. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $287 per day. Act quickly to seize the current limited-time sale and reserve your spot now.

• Coach / Bus
• In-depth Cultural

In-depth Discovery of the French Riviera & Provence

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, visiting France and Monaco. This itinerary covers 13 captivating destinations, with stops in Grasse, Saint-Tropez, Aix-En-Provence, and Avignon, among others. Nice marks the starting point, while Marseille stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This terrific trip also highights local culture, family-friendly activities, and local cuisine. Spanning across 10 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 15 participants, and it's great for travelers from 2 and up. Brought to you by the renowned So Provence So Alps ! , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $380 per day - an unbeatable value.

• Food & Culinary

Active & Discovery on the Moselle with 2 Nights in Paris 2024

This 10-day trip, visiting France, Luxembourg, and Germany, is ideal for travelers from 8 and up. And priced at only $536 per day, it's a great value, too. Immerse yourself in a travel experience that includes 10 destinations, featuring Rudesheim am Rhein, Verdun, Remich, and Luxembourg. Beginning in beautiful Paris, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Frankfurt-am-Main. It's offered by Avalon Waterways , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• River Cruise

Loire Cycle Path: Wild-romantic all the way to the sea (from Orleans to St-Nazaire)

Priced at just $139 per day, this terrific 10-day voyage is ideal for travelers of any age. Uncover the beauty of 9 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Chinon, Saumur, Angers, and Saint-Florent-le-Vieil. Orleans will mark the start of your journey, while St-Nazaire will serve as its final destination. Organized by the reputable Eurobike , this is one of the best tours on this list.

• Self-Guided Cycling

Trekking Mont Blanc

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices

Check out this incredible journey that has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting France, Italy, and Switzerland. Guests on this trip get to partake in hiking and mountain hikes. With a duration of 10 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 12 people, and is good for travelers from 12 to 90 years old. Traverse through 8 enchanting destinations, with La Fouly, Les Houches, Les Contamines-Montjoie, and Bourg-Saint-Maurice among the must-see stops along the route. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Chamonix. This fantastic option, organized by G Adventures , presents an unbeatable value at just $180 per day. Act quickly to seize the current limited-time sale and reserve your spot now.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France , The Best Historical Tours in France , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France , The Best 2-Week Tours in France , The Best River Cruises in France , The Best Bicycle Tours in France , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in France , The Best Christmas Market Tours in France , The Best Coach Bus Tours in France , The Best Adventure Tours to France , The Best Eco Tours in France , The Best Sightseeing Tours in France , The Best Cultural Tours in France , The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France , The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France , The Best Music Tours in France , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France , The Best Walking Tours in France , The Best Tours Under $1000 in France , The Best Luxury Tours to France , The Best Budget Tours to France , The Best Tours for Seniors to France , The Best Contiki Tours to France , or The Best G Adventures Tours to France for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lyon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bordeaux , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Arles , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Avignon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nice , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chamonix , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Strasbourg , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Blois , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chalon sur Saone , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Marseille , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dijon , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tours , The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris , The Best 10-Day Tours from Arles , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nice , The Best 10-Day Tours from Chalon sur Saone , The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris , The Best 2-Week Tours from Arles , The Best 2-Week Tours from Chamonix , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Nice for more package tour options.

How much do 10-day tours to France cost?

After analyzing 5 tours lasting 10 days in France, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $304 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for tours lasting 10 days with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in France .

And for more information on France, see France Travel Costs and France Hotel Costs .

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Amazing 10-day road trip in France starting from Paris

Table of content

If you go to France for ten days, you probably wonder where you should go. Places are many, and time is limited. How about a road trip? A 10-day road trip is way too short to explore France, but with a well-planned itinerary, you can see a lot and avoid feeling stressed and rushed.

The itinerary for this road trip through France includes cities, mountains, lakes, castles, and lavender fields. Some places are widely known, while others are off the main road. We have visited all the places included in this 10-day road trip itinerary.

France! Taste the fizz of Crémant, dream about the history of the kings and queens, feel the warmth of the Mediterranean breeze on your skin, and enjoy beautiful sunsets by the sea.

A road trip is an amazing way to see a lot in a shorter amount of time. Main roads in France are good, but take a few detours on old highways, and you will discover some treasures you don’t have to plan for.

France is full of history, but as you will see, every region you pass will have different architecture and a different feel. Aix-en-Provence is terracotta, Loire Valley is majestic white, and Normandy is Gingerbread-ish.

10-day road trip in France – map

This 10-day road trip through France starts in Paris at the beginning of July. We planned to visit some known and a few less-known places. Suppose you use this itinerary for your road trip. In that case, you will visit Paris, the Palace of Versailles, Beaune in Burgundy, Annecy by the Lake Annecy and the Alps, lavender fields on Valensole plateau, Aix-en-Provence in Provence, Montpellier, Tours, Omaha Beach, and Deauville in Normandy.

The longest drive leg on this itinerary is Montpellier to Tours, approximately 6,5 hours.

Road trip day 1 – explore Paris

Start your road trip in Paris and stay here for at least one night. Suppose you haven’t been to Paris before you have to stay in the city for at least a few days. Be a tourist and explore all the famous attractions! You won’t regret it.

The traffic in Paris is crazy, and parking can be challenging, meaning you can’t just park in front of your hotel. I recommend renting and picking up your car at the airport on the day of your first drive.  Alternatively, you can pick up a rented car in Paris.

We took the express train from the airport to the city, and since we didn’t need a hotel with a parking lot, we could stay very central, right next to Arch de Triomphe. If you haven’t been to Paris before or would love to explore other neighborhoods than you already have, I recommend reading my post on the best neighborhoods to stay in Paris .

• Charming Beaune – not only for wine lovers

Best arrondissement to stay in Paris

To help you plan for the best time to go on a road trip in France, you can read my post on the best time to visit Paris. This will give you an idea of prices, weather, and how crowded the country gets during some months. If you plan to explore France for over 10 days, I recommend staying in Paris for three days, preferably off the Champs Elysee. The metro in Paris runs smoothly, but watch out for pickpockets.

Before you drive on, you must try at least one of my favorite restaurants in Paris .

Road trip day 2 – Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles was slightly off the road for the next stop on this road trip. The Palace of Versailles is the holy grail of French history. If you cannot return to Paris soon, I suggest you add the Palace of Versailles to your itinerary.

The Palace of Versailles is about 45 45-minute drive from Paris. Go early so you can be here just before they open. If you are here in July, bring water, wear sunscreen and a cap, or use an umbrella. It is super hot. Get skip-the-line tickets for the Palace of Versailles and set aside at least half a day to explore.

Road trip day 2/3 – indulge in Beaune, Burgundy

Are you a fan of red wine? Especially Burgundy? Well, Beaune is known to be the wine capital of France . This charming town is located between Lyon and Dijon. We chose where to spend our first night after leaving Paris by flipping a coin during road trip planning. The town is not very big, but the lack of size is compensated by the city’s charm and offers of great food. In addition to food, the area of Beaune provides a great selection of wine tours and beautiful castles.

If you are traveling in the middle of the summer, I recommend booking a hotel with a swimming pool. In Beaune, you can stay at Novotel Hotel , a pool and a central location just a few minutes walk from the city center.

It takes only 3 hours to drive from the Palace of Versailles to Beaune , leaving plenty of time to explore this charming city. You can also extend your stay by one night and go on a wine or castle tour.

Road trip day 3/5 – 2 nights in Annecy by the Alps and Lake Annecy

After a cultural and culinary stay in Beaune, I am sure you are ready for another adventure. Annecy, French Venice, offers you mountain activities, lake activities or relaxation, and wine.

Annecy has two advantages: the gorgeous Lake Annecy with its warm and crystal clear waters and the Alps. If you are going on a road trip, a hotel offering parking space is a must, and I recommend staying at Hotel Le Clos Marcel in Duingt, just outside of Annecy. 

Whether looking for an active stay, hiking in the beautiful Alps, or chilling by the lake, I promise you you will find both in Annecy. It takes only 2,5 hours to drive from Beaune to Annecy .

Road trips are an amazing way to explore a country, and Southern Europe has more than enough to offer. High up on our bucket list is a road trip in Saõ Miguel , the largest island of the Azores archipelago off the coast of Portugal. The island seems to have just as much to offer (if not more) as the mainland. It’s time to plan another road trip 🙂

Road trip day 5 – see the beauty of lavender fields on Valensole

You can’t go on a road trip in Provence in France and not visit lavender fields. There are many lavender fields, and to find the right one, you can read my article on how to find them in France. If you want a photoshoot, pack your camera gear and clothes easily accessible in your luggage.

Lavender blossoms until the middle of July; after that, the harvest starts, and you will most likely miss the flowers. It takes about 2.5 hours to drive from Annecy to the Valensole Plateau on a scenic road through the Alps.

Road trip day 5 /6 – get Provence under your skin in Aix-an-Provence

By now, you have visited historical sites and famous attractions, explored a tiny piece of Burgundy, hiked the Alps, swam in the lake,  seen the beautiful lavender fields, and drunk a lot of red wine. Provence is the next stop on the road trip in the beautiful country of France. It takes about an hour to drive from the Valensole plateau to Aix-en-Provence (depending on the field).

You can choose to stay in many other towns in Provence, but we stayed in Aix-an-Provence. The town has a great vibe, typical Provence colors, architecture, history, and food. Aix-an-Provence is a university town, but all the students go home during the summer, leaving the young vibe to natives and tourists.

Provence has a lot to offer, and you can easily stay here a few days longer if you have time. You can always shorten your stay in another place on this road trip. For a hotel stay, I can recommend the Odalys vacancy . They have rooms with a kitchenette, and the hotel has a pool. We stayed here for one night. The hotel also has a great location, just a few hundred meters from the old town. During our stay, the city had a siesta in the middle of the day, and the kitchenette and the pool were perfect for a few hours in the middle of the day.

Suggestion : Read my article for several things to do in Provence

Road trip day 6/8 – Montpellier

Montpellier is another “old meets new” city in France and the third-largest after Nice and Marseille on the coast of the Meditteranean. The charming old town,  colorful tramps, Arc de Triomphe, architecture, and surrounding beaches. This is what you will see in Montpellier and the area around. But you will feel the constant but pleasant buzz of life in the streets, especially in the old town.

Did you know that Montpellier was founded already in 985 bc

We decided early on to stay somewhere for more than 1-2 nights at one point. We stayed in Montpellier for the whole four nights.

Montpellier lies between two rivers, a short drive from the Meditteranean, and surrounded by a few hills that will provide nice views of the city and area.

If you would rather visit museums, there are a few of those too. Montpellier is a diverse city that offers a lot and can satisfy almost any interest, even if you want to spend some time in a zoo or an aquarium. And you can always book a guided tour to a winery.

It takes about 2 hours to drive from Aix-en-Provence to Montpellier. For some strange reason, the water in the Meditteranean was ice cold in July, and I am glad we stayed in a hotel with a pool .

Road trip day 8/9 – Tours in Loire Valley – the Valley of the Kings

Who hasn’t seen the Leonardo Di Caprio movie “The Man with the Iron Mask”? The legend says that the king’s twin brother Louis was indeed real, and he was secretly sent to Loire Valley to live there. To avoid intrigues in court, of course. Choosing which of the boys would become the King of France was impossible. Since the boy was still royal, he would live like a royal, even in secret. And that is why there are so many castles in the Loire Valley.

Tours, the region’s capital, lies in the lower part of the river Loire banks. The two major attractions in the city center are the cathedral and Hotel de Ville (city hall). But like any respectable city in France, Tours has quite a few buildings of both historical and architectonic interest. If you stay here for a few days, you should visit some castles in the Loire Valley.

Have a burger and a beer at the Guingette sur Loire, the outdoor cafe on the left bank of the river. Enjoy your simple meal in the shadow of the riverbank while people watch.

It takes 6,5 hours to drive from Montpellier to Tours. We stayed near Hotel de Ville in a gorgeous hotel with a beautiful spa/pool.

Road trip day 9 – Omaha Beach in Normandy

Omaha Beach and its history doesn’t need further introduction. Since we are both WWII “fans,” we visited the museum instead of Mont-Saint-Michel. It can be quite foggy and very windy at the beach, so pack your windbreaker so it is easily accessible.

Visit the main memorial and the cemetery, but also a few small installations in the area. Take a stroll on the beach, and don’t forget to turn left to see the magnificent cliffs or, even better, take a slight detour to visit one of the hidden gems in France – the white cliffs of Etretat.

It takes 3 hours to drive from Tours to Omaha Beach. Check museum opening hours , so you don’t come too early.

Road trip day 9/10 – the gingerbread village of Normandy – Deauville

The last stop on this road trip in France is Deauville. The gingerbread village, as I like to call it. Deauville is known for several things, such as an international film festival, a racecourse, and a casino. According to Wikipedia, the village is regarded as “the queen of the Norman beaches.” If you stay here, which I recommend you do for at least one night, you will have an expensive ending to your road trip.

Deauville has been home to French high society’s seaside houses and is often called the  Parisian Riviera . Since the 19th century, the town of Deauville has been a fashionable holiday resort for the international upper class. And this village is also a desirable family resort for the wealthy. So here you go!

Driving from Omaha Beach to Deauville takes a little longer than an hour. We stayed in the gorgeous but also most expensive hotel on this trip. Which I still recommend for at least one night. Upon your arrival, we were taken on a tour around the hotel and shown the photos of all the famous movie stars before us.

Your road trip in France can also start here in Normandy and go another way around. Getting to Airport Charles de Gaule from Deauville takes about 2 hours and 40 minutes.

When we planned this itinerary, we decided to stay in cheaper hotels where we stayed for one night and more expensive places where we spent two or more nights.

Highways in France are fine, but old highways and side roads are like any other European country. We took a sideroad between Aix-en-Provence and Montpellier and met Pont du Gard. This ancient Roman aqueduct is the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges and one of the best-preserved. Sometimes planning is overrated 🙂

All links to hotels are affiliated. If you book through any of these links, I will get a small commission from the hotel. Your price will not be higher by booking through my links.

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If you are into exploring small, colorful cities like Deauville, then you will love to spend 2-3 days in Venice

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Hi! I am Lena from Norway. Immerse yourself in captivating narratives that capture the essence of European destinations. I wish you a safe journey!

10 comments

This is a great itinerary, southern France is my favorite! I’ve never been to Aix-an-Provence but it looks like such a beautiful town!

Aix-an-Provence was lovely! Can totally recommend 🙂

Admittedly not the biggest fan of Paris, so this itinerary is perfect to get out of the city and see more of this beautiful country!

I love Paris, but agree with you that the rest of the country is beautiful 🙂 Thank you!

Such a fabulous road tip itinerary. France has so much to off. Love the lavender field. Perfect for insta 🥰

France is amazing, the history, the food, the wine, the charm and the climate – just amazing.

I hope to visit France one day. So many stunning places to see. The gingerbread village looks so charming!

I hope you do! Deauville (the ginger bread village) was extremely charming 🙂

Beaune looks absolutely stunning! All of these places look like fabulous stops on a road trip, with such variety!

Beaune was extremely charming 🙂 It has been an amzing road trip with small villages and larger cities on the trip😍

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10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary (+Local Tips)

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First time in the south of France, and looking for a cute Provence itinerary with a little sprinkle of French Riviera.

I spent August and September exploring Provence, from Lyon to Nice to Marseille and everything in between guided by the local recommendations of my host, friends in the area, and a French lover – because there’s nothing like dating a French man to put a pep in your step – and I have some gems to share! 😘

Here’s the best itinerary that gets you both the iconic Instagram-worthy spots and the local gems most blogs don’t write about:

• 4 Days: French Riviera: Nice – Eze – Villefranche-sur-Mer – Saint-Paul-de-Vence – La Madrague Coast ( local gem! )
• 6 Days: Provence: Arles – Gordes – Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue – Loirmarin – Saint-Rémy-de-Provence – Gorge du Verdon – Lavander Fields – Avignon – Cooking Class – Wineries – Aix-en-Provence

Because of the local guidance I had, I discovered things I otherwise would never have on my own – exploring areas like the Madrague peninsula where a more authentic French Riviera vibe still exists, or the wild Camargue region where horses run wild and flamingos roam the lowlands.

I learned to pay attention to the local festival schedules and market days for different villages because that’s where the French locals gather, I was educated on how to dissect and properly eat a croissant, and so many more little tidbits.

So in this 10-day French Riviera and (mostly) Provence itinerary, I’ve included all my local finds , favorite restaurants, a few hikes and beaches that tourists don’t know about, and things I learned about the southern French culture that just made me fall in love with it even more. I swear, I must have said “ I could live here ” a thousand times…

French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Table of Contents

Southern France Itinerary Priorities

So with all that learning, here is how I went about thinking through this Provence itinerary:

✔️ A More Authentic Provençal Vibe .

For my due diligence prior to coming to France, I watched a ton of French-inspired movies and read A Year in Provence by Peter Mayle. I wanted to follow in his footsteps by digging into the Provençal culture more than check-boxing the iconic overtouristed sites.

✔️ A Home Base to Explore.

Provence is actually a pretty large region, and it’s best to have a central home base. Arles and Aix-en-Provence (the former capital of the region) are the most centrally located and have a cute local vibe and nightlife that I adore.

✔️ More Time Sightseeing, Less Time Driving.

While I do think renting a car is key for exploring southern France , there’s no need to be driving for hours every day to get somewhere. This itinerary is set up logically so you’re not on the road all the time .

DRIVING IN FRANCE: Driving in France is pretty straightforward and enjoyable! I recommend you rent a small car because the roads are narrow in Provence.

✔️ Culture, Nature, and Adventure

Cooking classes, winery visits, local markets, a coastal hike, and a little kayaking trip through the Gorge du Verdon are all part of the adventure. I’ve also sprinkled little things I learned along the way about the French in my itinerary – ya’ll, they are wild!

All in all, the vibe of this itinerary is super laid back, slow, food and wine-heavy, and full of iconic little French villages, local tips, lesser-known beaches and hikes, and my favorite spots from a month of adventuring in the region.

10-Day French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

The first couple of days of this itinerary focus on the French Riviera because I’m a maximizer and like starting a trip out on the beach. Then I shift into a full week of cute little villages, lavender fields, wineries, and all things Provence.

PRO TIP: If you only have 7 days in Provence , skip the initial part of my itinerary which starts with 3 days on the French Riviera. Fly into the Marseille Airport instead, and drive to your home base in Arles or Aix-en-Provence.

Although 10 days is just enough to get a taste of the Riviera and Provence, it’s a perfect start for a road trip. Let’s dive into the details!

Day 1: Fly Into Nice

🏠 Stay in Nice for 3 nights.

Nice, Marseille, and Avignon are the big cities that sort of hug the Provence and French Riviera area. Landing in any of these will be fine, as they are only a 2-3 hour driving distance apart. I started in Nice because its pretty, and on the beach, which makes for a great start to a vacation.

For a day in Nice, start with a walk along the Promenade des Anglais, aptly named because it was built by the Brits in the 1800s. Then, get lost in the colorful streets of Vieux Nice (old town) and check out the Cours Saleya flower market (best earlier in the day).

For lunch, you’ve got to try Le Cafe de Turin . I had whatever the chef was cooking that day, which included a bunch of cold fish in some sort of butter sauce – delicious! In the afternoon, hit up the Musée Matisse. Matisse actually lived in Nice for a big chunk of his life, and his vibrant art totally reflects the city’s vibe.

FUN FACT: Niçoise salads come from Nice, and are a a perfect reflection of the Mediterranean diet – fresh fish, local ingredients like tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, Niçoise olives, anchovies, and olive oil. While variations have popped up all over the US with random things added, the French stick to the original recipe, showcasing the freshest produce available that day.

Cap off your day at Colline du Château Park for some epic city views. There’s an elevator you can take up or take the stairs up where you can travel by a cute trolley train. Up in the park, there are lots of open spaces, sitting areas, and outdoor cafes that serve beer, wine, sandwiches, burgers, and ice cream. The toilets are 1€, and you can pay with your credit card.

And for dinner, I really liked Le Plongeoir . It looks like one of those places that’s just for show on Instagram, but trust me, the food is fantastic.

Nice is this perfect mix of history, culture, and great food. The city’s got a rich past, starting as a Greek settlement, and now it’s this bustling, artsy spot. This is why I recommend it for the start of the trip.

Where to Stay in Nice (3 Nights)

📍 Luxury: Arome Hotel – The decor is absolutely stunning, and the hotel is in the heart of the city, close to the beach, the old town, and tons of little cafes. 📍 Mid-Range: Residence Lamartine – Beautiful rooms, with a personalized welcome and complimentary treats – I love their attention to detail! This will feel like a high-end experience at a moderate price.

Day 2: A Day Along the French Riviera

Today is a full day of perfectly classic Riviera vibes! Less than half an hour away from Nice are the villages of Eze and Villefranche-sur-Mer. You are going to see these all up and down French postcards because they are so darn pretty and “French”. I know we’re in France, but I mean… they are extra French.

I recommend starting the morning with a drive to Eze on the M6007 regional road. This should take about 25 minutes.

Eze is this stunning medieval village perched way up on a hill with super pretty views of the sea. The place is like stepping back in time, with cobblestone streets and an old castle. Grab lunch here; the restaurants have these cute terraces overlooking the Mediterranean.

FUN FACT: Here’s a cool bit about Eze – it’s not just pretty views; it’s also famous for its perfume factories. You can actually tour the Fragonard Perfumery and see how they make all these amazing scents!

In the afternoon, head down to Villefranche-sur-Mer, only a 15-minute drive from Eze back towards Nice. Villefranche-sur-Mer is this colorful, laid-back seaside town. It’s got a bit of everything – history with its old fort, beautiful waterfront walks, and it’s a bit artsy too.

For dinner, pick a spot by the sea in Villefranche. The seafood is top-notch. After dinner, stroll down the seaside with a gelato before heading back to Nice.

Day 3: Medieval Villages & Perfume (Saint-Paul-de-Vence)

For the last day of Riviera vibes, I recommend heading inland to the towns of Saint-Paul de Vence and Vence, with a little early morning perfume detour – because I love me some “make your own perfume”!

PERFUME DETOUR: About a 40-minute drive from Nice is the Grasse Fragonard Perfumery . Entry tickets are free, but call ahead and see if they have spots for you to make your own perfume ! It’s like a 1-hour chemistry class, super cool! I walked out of there with my very own perfume and certificate.

Head back east to Saint-Paul de Vence for lunch – it’s going to be about a 30-minute drive. It’s this gorgeous medieval village that’s like a magnet for artists. The streets are lined with art galleries and studios, little boutiques, and shops, perfumeries, and artisan shops.

Grab lunch at one of the local cafes. The food is as amazing as the views. You’ll find some great spots with outdoor seating that are perfect for people-watching. Before you leave, make sure to walk along the town walls for some pretty views of the countryside – and take pictures!

FUN FACT: Did you know Saint-Paul de Vence became a hangout for famous artists like Chagall and Matisse? It’s like walking through a living art museum.

For the afternoon, head over to Vence, a town more low-key than Saint-Paul but equally charming.

Check out the old town and the Matisse Chapel, where Matisse designed everything, from the stained glass to the priest’s robes (control freak much?).

For dinner, Vence has some great bistros. The town’s a bit more laid back, so it’s a nice change of pace from the usual tourist spots. After dinner, head back to Nice. It’s a short drive, so you’ll be back in no time.

This trip is perfect if you’re into art and history , or if you just want to explore some really pretty French villages. Both Saint-Paul de Vence and Vence have this unique, artsy feel that’s totally different from anywhere else.

Day 4: La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem)

🏠 Stay in Arles for the rest of the trip (7 nights).

Today we’re heading west into the city of Arles, where I recommend a home base for visiting all of Provence. From Nice directly to Arles is a 3-hour drive on the A8 toll road. But why drive directly when you could make this a day of adventure ?

Today is about beaches and a local hike recommended by my host, Dorothea, in La Madrague.

From Nice to La Madrague is about a 1.5-hour drive. And then from La Madrague to Arles is another 1.5-hour drive. I love spending the day on the peninsula before making my way to the heart of Provence.

La Madrague has an interesting cultural background. It’s not as commercialized as other parts of the Riviera, so it has retained a lot of its authentic charm . The area is known for its traditional fishing practices, and you can sometimes see local fishermen using techniques that have been passed down for generations.

HIKING DIRECTIONS: Park here and start the route by heading up towards Plage des Darboussieres . The whole route takes about 3 hours if you don’t stop and soak the sun on Plage de la Madrague towards the end. The trail will pop you out along the street – have a celebratory beer and aperitif at Le Grotte and then back to your car and on to Arles for check-in and dinner.

I loved the trail around the peninsula along the seaside because it has some of the most amazing views. And the beaches along the route are literally jaw-dropping. They’re less crowded than the more famous spots on the Riviera, so you can really relax and enjoy the sun and chill vibe.

La Madrague is like a little slice of paradise, a glimpse into the traditional Riviera lifestyle .

Where to Stay in Arles (7 nights)

📍 Luxury: L’Hotel Particulier – A beautiful property with a pool right in the middle of Arles. 📍 Mid-Range: Appartements “La Chambre D’Ami” – Fantastic location, a great little apartment with the perk of having a little kitchen to make small snacks.

Day 5: Arles & Camargue

Arles is a great home base for this Provence itinerary because it’s centrally located, smaller than Nice, but still has tons of options for eating, gelato-ing, and boutique shopping. Not to mention museums and cafes on every corner, with a charming old-town feel.

➡️ Loved this Private Walking Tour – an excellent way to get your bearings and see the main sites through a local’s eyes! ⬅️

Arles is famous for its Roman heritage, and you can see this in the well-preserved ancient structures like the Arles Amphitheatre and the Roman Theatre. The city is also famous for its association with Vincent van Gogh, who lived and painted some of his most famous works here, including Starry Night .

RANDOM ART FACT: Interestingly, despite creating over 300 paintings and drawings during his time in Arles, Van Gogh sold only one painting while he lived.

Favorite Happy Hour Spot : L’Arlatan Hotel Favorite Gelato: Soleileïs

Every summer, Arles hosts the renowned ‘Les Rencontres d’Arles’, one of the world’s first and most prestigious photography festivals – I’ve been to it, and it’s absolutely amazing.

Last little bit of info on Arles, in case you’re visiting in the fall – during the September Feria, there’s a weekend where the whole town comes alive with bands in the streets, paella, and (unfortunately) the tradition of bullfighting.

Day 6: Luberon Villages (Gordes & Isle Sur La Sorgue)

The next two days are dedicated to cute little French villages in one of the most iconic Provençal regions, Luberon.

PRO TIP: Stick to just two-ish villages a day in the same area. It lets you really soak in each place without rushing. Trust me, it’s the way to go!

First up, plan a day for Gordes and Isle Sur La Sorgue . The drive from Arles up north to Gordes is about 1 hour and 20 minutes, and I recommend taking the smaller regional roads because everywhere you look is a snapshot of that classic Provencal beauty.

Gordes is this stunning hilltop village with amazing views, cobblestone streets, tons of little boutiques, and gelato spots. I recommend you start your day in Gordes. Park here and walk into town for lunch in the main town square.

The walk back to your car along the edge of the town will help settle the food afterward – viewpoints and Instagrammers included. It is one of the most popular villages in Provence, after all.

FUN FACT: It’s so damn pretty that a bunch of films were shot here including A Good Year with Russel Crowe.

Nearby, and on the way out of town, you should check out the Abbey of Senanque . It’s like something out of a postcard with all the lavender fields – especially in the summer.

Isle Sur La Sorgue is another gem, especially if you’re into antiques. This is a great afternoon and dinner along the riverfront. Again, you’ll want to park a bit outside of the old town and walk the 5 minutes into the heart of the village.

Isle Sur La Sorgue has these cute waterways and is often called the “Venice of Provence”, which if you’ve been to Venice is not quite true, but I’m going to let it slide because it’s still pretty. The water wheels around the town are pretty unique – they used to be for silk and paper making, but now is just a pretty photo opp.

I recommend a nice stroll along the river and in and out of the little streets, shopping, and an early dinner in Isle Sur La Sorgue before heading back home to Arles.

Day 7: More Luberon Villages (Loirmarin & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence)

For your second day, hit Loirmarin and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. It’s about an hour’s drive from Arles to Loirmarin – again, take the national road, labeled N113.

A super authentic French thing to do around Loirmarin is Truffle Hunting – it’s an early morning start, highly recommend it!

Just a bit outside of Loirmarin is an excellent Michelin-star restaurant at Hotel Auberge La Fenière . Grab lunch here and then head into town and explore Loirmarin. Make sure you call for a reservation ahead of time. They do have parking on the premises.

Loirmarin has this beautiful Renaissance castle with a little wine cellar you can stop in at, and a really laid-back feel. Fun fact – the writer Albert Camus, whom I remember reading in college, used to live here and is even buried in the village.

ANOTHER CUTE VILLAGE: If you’re aching for a bit more adventure, a 30-minute drive north through the mountains is the little nook village of Saignon. Park here and walk into the town center for a gelato. It’s the cutest little town square, with iconic light pink buildings engulfed by ivy growing along the walls, and those Provençal window shutters that are straight out of a book. It’s not a big, touristy village, took me about 1.5 hours to explore – the best views are from Bellevue Rock .

In the afternoon, head back towards Arles and stop in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence . I had my best shopping sprees in this town, there are so many little boutiques open till a bit later, around 7 pm.

Have dinner in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, and then a quick 20-minute drive back home to Arles.

Day 8: Gorge Du Verdon & Lavender Fields

We go deeper into the Provence region, all the way to the lavender fields on top of the Valensole Plateau, the Gorge du Verdon, and the gem of the town, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie (my personal favorite French village in Provence).

The drive from Arles to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is about 2.5 hours, and I recommend taking the D-952 route so that you are driving along the lavender fields of the Valensole Plateau on your way to lunch. Stop anywhere here for photos – it’s a wide-open road, and you’ll spot quite a few people doing the same.

Lunch and gelato in Moustiers-Sainte-Marie ( park here ). Nestled within the Verdon Natural Regional Park and surrounded by towering cliffs, Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is so pretty, that I visited it three times during my stay.

For a more traditional French cafe lunch, sit at the terrace overlooking the stream at Cafe Gourmandises . Then an apres lunch gelato at L’Etoile Givrée – Artisan Glacier .

Now is a bit of dead time in the mid-afternoon before dinner. This makes it a perfect time to head to Lake Saint-Croix and do some kayaking in the Gorge Du Verdon, just a quick 15-minute drive to the Kayak rental place – Activité Nautique .

KAYAK RENTAL : I rented a kayak for 3 hours and just took my time heading into the gorge. The prices are pretty reasonable at about $15 per hour. I would bring a water bottle and wear a bathing suit. They give you a waterproof sack to put your valuables in.

After taking all the pictures in the water and from the bridge of the Gorge du Verdon , head back to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie for an apéro (French for happy hour) at Le Bistrot des Apiculteurs Brasseurs. I had dinner at Restaurant Les Tables Du Cloitre and slowly made my way back to Arles for the night. Remember, it’s a 2-hour drive back.

DRIVING AT NIGHT: Don’t be scared of driving in France at night, even on the little regional roads. There’s hardly any traffic (or cars) and the roads are well-maintained with good reflective signage. It’s actually quite relaxing and pretty if you have a full moon.

Day 9: Cooking Lessons In Avignon

Today is about learning how to cook a few French dishes in the home of a local for an afternoon lunch and then exploring Avignon.

➡️ Highly recommend this French Cooking Lesson with Gina . You’ll be visiting the famous Halles market & having lunch on her terrace overlooking the Palace of the Popes! ⬅️

Avignon is most famous for its role in the Catholic Church’s history, particularly during the Avignon Papacy when the Popes lived here instead of in Rome. I’m pretty sure it’s because they discovered how freakin’ delicious French food and wine was, and ditched Italy for the South of France.

Here are the main sites to walk to after lunch:

• Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) : This is the star attraction of Avignon. It’s one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. The palace was the residence of the Popes in the 14th century and is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Pont d’Avignon : The famous bridge in all the postcards showing Avignon. While it no longer spans the entire Rhône River, the remaining arches are a piece of history to be appreciated.
• Rocher des Doms : For the best views of Avignon, head to this beautiful garden perched above the city. It’s a great spot for a walk and a nap.

After Avignon, head back to Arles. Tomorrow is your last day and I therefore time to celebrate by getting wine tipsy.

Day 10: French Wine & Aix-en-Provence

No trip to Provence is complete without visiting its former capital of the region, the gorgeous city of Aix-en-Provence.

This is going to sound crazy, but hear me out – we are starting the day with a wine tour in the mountains near Aix. I know drinking vino by 10 am is wild, but ‘when in France’, and also… you’ll manage!

➡️ Start the day with this Small Group Wine Tour to Côtes de Provence St-Victoire! ⬅️

Now that you’re a little tipsy, time for some sightseeing. Aix-en-Provence, often just called Aix (pronounced “ aeix “), is a city in the south of France with a bunch of history, culture, and charm.

It’s known for its classical architecture, and gorgeous fountains, and has been a center of art and learning over the years. Even now, it’s home to several universities and art schools, contributing to a youthful atmosphere and fun dating scene – just scroll through Bumble for a quick look. 😘

The best thing to do is head into the old town center near Fontaine de la Rotonde, sit down at a cafe, and people-watch. Order some calissons , the city’s traditional candy, a delicious treat made from ground almonds, candied melon, and orange peel, topped with royal icing – holy shit, wow!

FUN ARTSY FACT: Aix is famously associated with the post-impressionist painter Paul Cézanne. He was born and raised here, and the city’s landscapes inspired many of his works. You can visit his studio, Atelier Cézanne, which has not changed much since he left it.

Day 11: Fly Home

Time to write some postcards, return your car, and fly out of Nice. Arles to Nice is a 3-hour drive, and give yourself time because there’s always traffic when you get to Nice.

You can also see if you can return your car in Marseille and fly out of Marseille Airport. This will be an extra fee, but it’s an option.

Map: French Riviera & Provence Itinerary

Here’s a map of all the little spots I mentioned in my South of France itinerary.

Below is the regional map of the French Riviera and Provence, with the Luberon and Verdon mountain ranges in the middle. It’s helpful to understand where the regions are in relation to the cities – because everyone talks about Provence with regards to “Luberon” and “Vaucluse”, etc.

Where To Stay In Provence

I started my trip by landing in Nice because I wanted to spend the first 3 days exploring the famous French Riviera. The rest of the itinerary is all about Provence, where I recommend Arles as a home base to explore. I ended up staying in a smaller village in Provence , but if I had to do it again, I’d go with Arles because it has more amenities without being overwhelmingly big.

Where to Stay in Nice

Where to stay in arles.

📍 Luxury: L’Hotel Particulier – A beautiful property with a pool right in the middle of Arles. 📍 Mid-Range: Appartements “La Chambre D’Ami” – Fantastic location, a great little apartment with the perk of having a kitchen. For a week’s stay in Provence, you’ll need that.

Getting Around Provence

If you’re heading to Provence, seriously consider renting a car – it’s what I did. No waiting around for buses or trains, just pure, spontaneous adventure. Plus, some of the most charming spots in Provence are tucked away in places you can only get to by car.

➡️ I use Discover Cars to check prices in France! ⬅️

Driving in Provence is a treat in itself. Imagine cruising through landscapes straight out of a painting – lavender fields, vineyards, the works.

If you’re going with family or friends, it’s a no-brainer. You all pile in, share the costs, and it’s way more fun and cost-effective than buying a bunch of train tickets.

✈️ Flying to Provence

When traveling to Provence, there are several major airports you can consider, each in a different part of the region.

• Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) : This is the largest airport in the Provence region and the most convenient. It’s located about 27 kilometers northwest of Marseille and serves as a primary gateway to the region.
• Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) : While technically in the French Riviera, this airport is a popular choice for people also wanting a little beach life added to the Provence itinerary. It’s the third busiest airport in France and has a bunch of international and domestic flights.

I like to fly to Nice because it’s one of the prettier cities. I then rent a car, and slowly make my way west through the French Riviera into the heart of Provence.

🚂 Getting Around Provence By Train

Traveling around Provence by train is the second best option to renting a car.

The main train line in Provence runs from Marseille to Nice, stopping at major cities and towns like Aix-en-Provence, Toulon, Cannes, and Antibes. There’s also a line connecting Marseille to Avignon, with stops in smaller towns like Arles and Nîmes.

PRO TIP: One of the advantages of staying in Arles or Aix-en-Provence is that they are on the train route.

Ticket prices vary depending on the distance and type of train. High-speed TGV trains are more expensive but faster, while regional TER trains are more affordable but slower. A one-way ticket on a TER train for a short journey might cost around €10-€20, while longer journeys on TGV can range from €30 to over €100.

Make sure you book in advance , especially for TGV trains. It can save you money and ensure that you actually have a seat. Also, be aware that space for luggage can be limited on trains, so pack light.

There is also the regional bus system and FlixBus, but I recommend either renting a car or using the train system to get around Provence.

Do I need a car in Provence?

Yes, I recommend renting a car in Provence. Most of this itinerary and hilltop villages are only accessible by car, giving you maximum freedom to do whatever the hell you want, whenever you want.

Travel Tips for Visiting Provence

There are a few quirky things about visiting Provence. To add a few bits of advice to this itinerary, here are some tips and frequently asked questions that I had when I was planning my trip.

How many days do I need in Provence?

I suggest spending at least a week. This gives you the space to explore at a pace that lets you absorb the essence of Provence – slow and steady. A week gives you time to hit up a couple of the Luberon villages, wander through the markets in Aix-en-Provence, kayak the Gorge Du Verdon, do a few coastal hikes, and get your foodie fix in Avignon. Less than this will have you rushing and missing a few iconic things.

What is the best month to visit the South of France?

I think the best month to visit Provence is October (or September) because that’s when a lot of the tourists have left, all the French come back out, the restaurants are not packed, the traffic in all the villages and on the roads is manageable, the harvest is in, and the temperatures have begun to cool down without it being cold.

Final Thoughts: A Perfect Provence Itinerary

When I was doing research, I had a hard time figuring out where Provence was geographically and what was part of it/what wasn’t, where the best home base was going to be, and how to maximize my drive times and route so I could balance being outdoors, seeing the sites, and stuffing my face full of croissants.

To really maximize this 10-day Provence itinerary, you will need to rent a car. With the freedom of your own vehicle, you can navigate from the ritzy French Riviera to the rustic beauty of the Luberon villages, and won’t be missing a beat of what Provence has to offer.

Here’s the best route that optimizes driving time:

Day 1: Fly into Nice Day 2: French Rivera – Eze & Villefrenche-sur-Mer Day 3: French Riviera – Perfumery & Saint-Paul-de-Vence Day 4: French Riviera – La Madrague Coastal Hike (Local Gem!) Day 5: Arles & Camargue Region Day 6: Luberon Villages – Gordes & Isle-Sur-la-Sorgue Day 7: Loirmarin & Saint-Rémy-de-Provence Day 8: Gorge du Verdon & Lavander Fields Day 9: Cooking Lessons in Avignon Day 10: Wineries & Aix-en-Provence Day 11: Fly Home

For accommodations, balancing your stay between Arles and Aix-en-Provence gives you a taste of both the historical and the contemporary.

So, are you ready to turn this dream itinerary into a reality? Head over to Road Trip EuroGuide’s Plan My Trip – I can help you plan the perfect Provencal adventure, making sure every detail is covered, from recommending car rentals to cozy stays.

Mariana Barbuceanu is the owner and author of the Road Trip EuroGuide, a blog that inspires fellow travelers to explore Europe more authentically through slower travel and digging deeper into the culture of a place. When she isn't writing about her adventures, she is planning trips for her community and coaching people on how to take that next step towards a much-needed sabbatical.

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.

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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!

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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 10 Day South of France Road Trip Itinerary

• David Angel

About the author: David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian with 30+years experience exploring Europe. His work regularly appears in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, and The Guardian.

Welcome to my South of France Road Trip itinerary guide, taking in the best of both Provence and Occitanie.

Driving in the South of France enables you to see far more than public transport does. You can get off the beaten path, seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

This road trip itinerary is packed with suggestions, and if you have a few more days available, there are plenty of possibilities for discovering even more amazing places.

I’ve devised this southern France road trip itinerary to include some of the best of Provence and the region to the west, Occitanie. The latter, covering southwest France, used to be known as Languedoc & Roussillon.

Provence is perhaps better known than Occitanie – but over several trips I’ve found both are equally compelling. This itinerary is an amalgamation of two of the south of France road trips I have done. It also takes you around six UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The first few days are spent driving short distances around the west of Provence before heading west. You eventually return via the fascinating city of Albi, enjoying some of the most beautiful scenery in France along the way.

Table of Contents

South of France Road Trip Itinerary

Day 1 – avignon.

Avignon, my suggested starting point for this south of France vacation, is one of the best cities in France to visit. It’s best known as the City of Popes – six Popes presided from there in the 13 th and 14 th centuries.

The Palais des Papes – the Popes’ Palace – is one of the highlights. The immense fortified palace is one of the greatest Gothic buildings in France, and still dominates the whole city.

Avignon is also renowned because of the famous song, Sur le pont d’Avignon . The Pont Saint-Bénézet is named after the local saint who claimed he had a vision telling him to build a bridge on the site.

The location was unsuitable: the original 12th-century bridge was destroyed by floods, and just four arches of its replacement survive.

I suggest sticking to one day in Avignon , simply because there is so much to see elsewhere. It may well be worth considering a guided walking tour of Avignon , which will cover the main sights I’ve mentioned and the Notre Dame des Doms Cathedral near the Papal Palace.

There are also several more churches to explore, including those of St Didier and St Pierre, and the formidable circuit of town walls.

Also take a walk to the Rue des Teinturiers, one of the prettiest streets in Avignon. It’s set along a canal in an area once lived in by the city’s dyers and tanners, and one of their waterwheels is still preserved.

Places To Stay In Avignon

Hotel d’Europe : 5-star luxury on one of the loveliest squares in Avignon

La Mirande – 5-star elegance next to the Palais des Papes

Les Jardins de Baracane :  gorgeous 17 th century guesthouse      

Day 2 – Around Avignon – Pont du Gard, Orange And More

I suggest using Avignon as a base for the first part of this south of France road trip as there is such an abundance of day trips from Avignon . 

One of the best things about staying in Avignon is that so many of the best places to visit in Provence are within reach by public transport. That said, a great many places to see in Provence can only be reached by car.

The drawback of using public transport in the south of France is that you’re limited to seeing one place a day. Driving allows you to cover more ground more quickly, and on the second day of your South of France vacation you can easily reach two World Heritage Sites and explore some of the best of Côtes du Rhône wine country.    

Start the day by heading west along the N100 from Avignon, continuing to Remoulins and following the D19 towards the Pont du Gard. It’s one of the most iconic bridges in Europe , a triple-layered arched aqueduct built in the 1 st century AD. The Romans built it to supply the nearby town of Nemausus with water.

It’s remarkably well preserved, among the outstanding Roman monuments in Europe. The Aqueduct is a few minutes’ walk from the car park and small museum devoted to the Pont.

After a couple of hours at the Pont du Gard, return to Remoulins and then join the A9 motorway (toll applies) for the short journey (around 30 km from where you join the motorway) to Orange. Follow the signs to the centre of Orange, a provincial town to the north of Avignon.

Here you’ll need a couple of hours to visit two more amazing Roman sights (which make up another World Heritage Site). The Arc de Triomphe d’Orange is beautifully preserved, especially its exceptional bas-reliefs. It’s believed to date from the reign of the first Roman Emperor, Caesar Augustus, and there is also an inscription dedicated to his successor, Tiberius.

The other unmissable sight in Orange is the Théâtre Antique, or Ancient Theatre. Again, it’s incredibly well reserved, with an intact stage wall. The statue in the stage wall is of Emperor Augustus, during whose reign it was probably built. The Theatre has been used to stage productions again since the 19 th century.

The stage is an astonishing 60 metres wide, and dramas and comedies would have been performed on it in ancient times. Nowadays it’s used for opera performances, especially during the summertime Choregies d’Orange festival.

You can return to Orange via the backroads around the famous wine village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Alternatively, a more scenic route takes you east via Violes to the Dentelles de Montmirail, Beaumes-de-Venise and Carpentras before swinging south-east to Avignon.  

Day 3 – Avignon to Arles

We leave Avignon behind on the third morning of our South of France road trip, gently making our way a short distance down to the Rhone to the gorgeous World Heritage city of Arles.

Begin the day by driving the 10 miles (16 km) south from Avignon to the gorgeous little town of St Remy de Provence. I’ve stopped here numerous times over the years, and always found something new to intrigue me.

It’s mainly known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, who made several of his most famous paintings there, including Starry Night and Olive trees with the Alpilles in the background . He produced these while a patient at what was then known as the Saint-Paul Asylum, on the southern edge of the town.

This is now known as the Centre Culturel Saint-Paul de Mausole, and is next to the same groves of olive trees van Gogh painted. These are, in turn, next to the ancient Roman city of Glanum. Two of the best-preserved monuments – the Mausoleum of the Julii and Triumphal Arch – are on the west side of the road, while the rest of the city is on the other side.

The settlement pre-dated the Romans, who occupied the site until it was ransacked around 260 AD by the Alemanni.  The ruins of the main town are substantial, including part of a temple, a well-preserved main street, baths and a spring.

Head south over the jagged hills of the Alpilles range, from which you emerge with a view of the vast coastal plain.  The D5 road continues around to Les Baux de Provence, one of ‘les plus beaux villages de France’.   

It’s certainly one of the most dramatically sited villages in France, occupying a limestone outcrop with superb views in all directions. The village is huddled below the ruined medieval castle, which ruled over more than 70 villages before the line of succession ended in the 15 th century.

Most of the old village is given over to tourism, with many of the houses now used as galleries or gift shops. But don’t be put off. I’ve visited the village three times, and most recently loved the walks around the Val d’Enfer (the Valley of Hell) to the north of the village.

The views there are superb, and if you have time I also suggest visiting Les Carrières de Lumières , a series of underground caverns that hosts some amazing art installations. At the time of writing they have a Dutch theme, with Vermeer, van Gogh and Mondrian featured.

The village also gave its name to bauxite, an aluminium ore quarried to exhaustion until the end of the 20 th century. Your day is almost done. It’s a 20-minute drive – around 8 miles (14 km) south-east to the wonderful city of Arles, where I suggest staying two nights.

Where To Stay In Arles

Hotel de l’Anglais:  wonderful guesthouse in the heart of Old Arles

Hotel de l’Amphitheatre

Hotel Spa Le Calendal

Day 4 – Arles

Arles may just be our favourite city in Provence. I’ve visited several times over the years, and it’s a great base for a day – even several. It’s the gateway to the Camargue, the wetlands of the Rhone delta, and like Avignon, makes a great base for day trips in the south of France.  

Some of you may prefer Arles to Avignon – it’s more vivid, bright and colourful than its more austere neighbour to the north. Arles, another UNESCO World Heritage city, has two main draws for its visitors: its Roman sites and Vincent van Gogh association.

The Roman amphitheatre, which holds crowds of 25,000, was completed a few years after the Colosseum in Rome. It’s in excellent condition, and like its counterpart in Nimes, hosts bullfighting (but no killing), and concerts.  It’s an awesome venue for events like this, and an absolute must-see if you visit Arles.

The Roman Theatre is a short distance away. It would have been of similar size to the Roman Theatre in Orange, but is in worse state of preservation. The most intriguing of the Roman sites in Arles is Les Alyscamps, a Roman-era necropolis that continued to be Arles’ principal burial ground a thousand years after they had gone.  Roman burial grounds were traditionally outside the city walls, as was the case here.

Vincent van Gogh moved to Arles in 1888, and though some of his time there could be described as turbulent, it was also one of the most productive of his lifetime.  Arles undoubtedly inspired him. It was where he produced the likes of Starry Night Over the Rhone , The Yellow House , Café Terrace At Night , L’Arlesienne and some of his famous still-lifes and studies of chairs.

He left Arles for St-Remy in May 1889, having spent time at the Hospital (now L’Espace van Gogh). If you have an interest in van Gogh, you should also make time to visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh , which usually has a small collection of his paintings on display.

Aficionados of modern architecture should also seek out Luma Arles. It’s an arts and cultural centre, the distinctive work of Frank Gehry.  The architect of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and Dancing House Prague completed this commission in 2021, and it’s one of his best.  I love the description of the Tower in the Guardian just after its completion – ‘Bacofoil scrunched by an invisible fist’.

Day 5 – Arles to Carcassonne

The fifth day of your South of France road trip is really down to you. It’s a two-hour drive, mostly along the A9 autoroute, to your next stop, Carcassonne. You may wish to see more of Arles. Or perhaps you may wish to get to Carcassonne as early as possible.

On the other hand, there is the option of heading south to the fascinating Camargue, or visiting some intriguing seaside towns very close by. I spent a couple of days of my first south of France road trip, back in the summer of 1988, in this area and have always meant to return.

We meandered around the Camargue for a while, camping near the beautiful old seaside town of Le Grau du Roi, on the western edge of the wetland area. Le Grau is a few miles along the coast from La Grande Motte, a resort built in the 1960s and 1970s.

I wrote in my journal at the time that it was ‘a seaside resort for aliens’. Many of the buildings – designed by Jean Balladur – are pyramid-like constructions. They were supposedly inspired by some of the pyramids of Central America, but always struck me as being more futuristic.

The medieval fortress town of Aigues-Mortes is a few miles along the coast on the D62. The town walls are superb, the architecture of much of the small town likewise. It’s on the shore of the Camargue, on the edge of a vast expanse of salt flats.  I haven’t returned there since the ‘80s, but would recommend anyone intrigued enough to go exploring.

Head for the A709 and then the A9 autoroute south of Montpellier. La Languedocienne takes you past the splendid old cities of Beziers and Narbonne, and at the latter take the A61 to your next stop, the fortified town of Carcassonne.

Places To Stay in Carcassonne

Hotel de la Cite & Spa MGallery : stunning 5-star hotel in the medieval citadel

Sowell Hotels Les Chevaliers : fine 4star in the Ville Basse, with some of the best views in town

Day 6 – Carcassonne

Carcassonne is one of the great icons of France and most beautiful castles in Europe.  The city – close to the Mediterranean and trade routes – has been fortified to some degree since Roman times.

The Visigoths took over the city, and the Carolingians, under Pepin the Short, took over in the 8 th century. The city was also renowned as one of the main refuges of the Cathars, Christians with what the Catholic Church considered heretical beliefs. As part of the Albigensian Crusade, thousands were brutally expelled from Carcassonne.

I’ve visited Carcassonne on three south of France road trips, and each time the initial sight of it has blown me away. The Cité de Carcassonne – the Citadel – encompasses the Old Town and Castle (Chateau Comtal), its 50 or more towers and turrets and immense walls visible from many miles away.  

It’s an amazing sight from the Pont Vieux – the long medieval bridge across the river Aude – and from the vineyards that surround the town. The Cité is quite small and only takes a few hours to explore, including its gateways and ramparts and the Basilica of St Nazaire. 

Each time I’ve visited I’ve ended up spending more time in the Ville Basse – the modern lower town – than the Cité.  A restored medieval citadel isn’t really conducive to day-to-day modern life, and this is where you’ll find more Carcassonne restaurants and hotels.

While there, don’t miss the Cathedral of Saint-Michel, which replaced the Basilica in the Cité as the region’s mother church in 1803. Also take a drive into the surrounding countryside to appreciate some of the amazing views of the Cité.  Some of the best are from the vineyards surrounding the town.

Carcassonne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and is on the doorstep of another – the Canal du Midi. This amazing feat of engineering was completed in the mid-17 th century. The 240-kilometre waterway links the city of Toulouse with the Mediterranean Sea, and Carcassonne is near the mid-point of the Canal.

Day 7 – Carcassonne to Albi

The drive between these two World Heritage cities takes you over the unheralded Montagne Noire (Black Mountain). It also crosses from the Aude departement to Tarn, of which Albi is the capital.

The Montagne Noire is a vast upland forest area, and the D118 winds its way up and over the top. It takes you as far as the outskirts of the fine town of Castres , a name familiar to rugby fans around Europe. I only stopped for lunch for an hour or so, with just enough time to admire the quirky tanners’ houses above the Agout river.

A few old friends from Wales have visited to watch rugby there, and are very enamoured with the town. I’d be inclined to press on towards Albi, but there are plenty of other things to see in Castres, including a Goya Museum.

Continuing northwards, you eventually pass the turnoff for the gorgeous medieval village of Lautrec. If the name is familiar, it’s the ancestral village of the family of artist Henri de Toulouse—Lautrec, more on whom shortly. There’s a beautiful square surrounded by characteristic local brick and timber houses, and a fine 17 th century windmill on the hill above the village.

Eventually you reach the red-brick wonder of Albi, long one of my favourite cities in France. Park, check in and head straight for the most striking building in the city, the extraordinary Cathédrale Ste Cécile.

Its exterior looks more like a forbidding fortress than a place of worship. This was the intention of Bishop Bernard de Castanet, who began the Cathedral in the aftermath of the 13th-century Albigensian Crusade.

This campaign had seen the defeat of the Cathar heretics, so the new Cathedral was all about projecting Bernard’s power.  Although he did cut costs somewhat by using brick rather than stone. Albi Cathedral is said to be the biggest brick building in the world. I’m pretty sure that it isn’t (mighty Malbork Castle in Poland is bigger) but it’s a hugely impressive edifice.

I strongly recommend taking a walk down the hill to the River Tarn to admire the view of the city with the Cathedral looming above.  It’s particularly striking at sunrise, when the first light of the day glances across the red-brick buildings. Albi Cathedral is so different inside. I remember expecting a bare, austere interior, like a vast empty hall in a Castle. Not at all. It’s positively lavish and extravagant.

I was particularly struck by the beautifully painted vaults, which run the length of the church. This would have been done in the late 15 th and early 16 th centuries. The walls are also beautifully decorated, with the 15 th -century Last Judgment mural at the west end of the nave the oldest surviving work.

Places To Stay In Albi

Hotel Alchimy: 4-star with luxury suites in the historical centre

Hostellerie du Grand St-Antoine

La Voute du 26   – amazing apartment in medieval house in the historic centre of Albi  

Day 8 – Albi and Albigeois Region

There are enough things to do in Albi to keep you there for two or three days. It’s one of the most underrated cities in France, a place rich in medieval architecture. Other cities (Toulouse) and towns in the region also have the distinctive red brick houses with timber frames – as does Lautrec, from the previous day of this South of France itinerary.

Start the day at the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum , housed next door to the Cathedral in the Bishops’ Palace, the Palais de la Berbie. The superb collection of Toulouse-Lautrec’s works was donated to his home city in 1922. He was famous for his Parisian posters and also drawings and paintings, and some of his best-known works are included in the collection, including the Moulin Rouge Masked Ball poster.

Spend more time exploring the less-known Albi sights, including the Maison du Vieil Alby (House of Old Albi, open afternoons only) and the Saint-Salvi church and cloister.      I was fortunate to have allowed myself three days in Albi, leaving time for a short drive north into the Albigeois, the countryside north of Albi. 

The main draw in the area is the gorgeous hilltop town of Cordes-sur-Ciel. It’s a beautiful rambling medieval town built on a steep hill, its cobbled streets full of galleries. It seemed to be pitched towards curious visitors, but when we visited, in April, there were very few of us around.

If Cordes is busy in summer and you really want to step back in time, head around 10 miles west to the village of Penne. It’s somewhere I yearn to return, an extraordinary village crowned by a wonky medieval castle. It’s in my personal most beautiful villages in France list, for sure.  

Day 9 – Albi to Millau

With great reluctance, we bid farewell to Albi to head east towards the southern end of the Massif Central. On this day we visit one of the great modern famous landmarks in France . And there is the option of visiting the home of one of the best blue cheeses in the world, if your tastebuds are so inclined.

We suggest following the D999 east from Albi into the Aveyron department, a journey of around 60 miles (100 km).  ass through the pretty town of Saint-Affrique before you reach the cheese mecca of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon. 

This small village is paradise to blue cheese fiends like us, and I ate one of the best sandwiches of my life there. The contents were no more than a very large chunk of bread and a huge helping of Roquefort cheese, but this was my food paradise.

The story goes that a shepherd left a piece of cheese in the high pastures, retrieving it months later to find it covered in mould. He supposedly tried a bite, and so one of the most famous cheeses in France was born.

See Also: What Is France Famous For? 

It’s a half-hour drive from there through the Grands Causses Regional Natural Park to Millau. These days it’s best-known as the nearest town to the Viaduc de Millau – or Millau Viaduct.

This magnificent bridge is the tallest in Europe, 270 metres above the Tarn valley floor at one point. One of its piers is 1143 feet (348 metres) high – which is considerably taller than the Eiffel Tower.

From Roquefort, I suggest rejoining the D999 and turning right, heading east to the nearest junction of the A75 autoroute (motorway). Join the autoroute, heading left (north) where you enjoy astounding views of the bridge and landscape below.

Turn off the A75 at the next junction, and follow the road around to the rest area (Aire du Viaduc de Millau) and viewpoint. From there you get a stunning view, with the piers of the bridge very close to each other. I also suggest driving around the Tarn Valley below the Viaduct to seek out more views of it.

One of my favourites is the beautiful village of Peyre, roughly a mile west of the Viaduct. This is where our dusk image of the Viaduct was shot.  

Hotels In Millau

Couvent de la Salette :  the best luxury bet in Millau, beautiful rooms in a centuries-old former convent

Domaine des Ondes – great guesthouse with wonderful mountain views

Day 10 – Millau to Avignon

Before the Viaduct was built, Millau was best-known as the gateway to the Gorges du Tarn. The upper reaches of the river flow through this spectacular narrow gorge on its way west, where it eventually meets the broad Garonne river.

Follow the D187 north out of Millau, continuing north-east to Le Rozier. From there, you have the option of heading 10 miles north to the best viewpoint in the Gorges du Tarn, the Point Sublime, which commands a breathtaking view of the valley.

From there, double back to Millau or head south via minor roads via Nant, to join the D7. This becomes the D999 a few miles to the east, and from here you continue into the Cevennes.  briefly stopped) and Saint Hippolyte du Fort. The D999 takes you all the way to Nimes, home to of the greatest Roman monuments in France and an enchanting old centre.  

You could overnight in Nimes or continue to Avignon – entirely up to you. I’ve stayed in Nimes twice, both times for one night, and would gladly do so again. The Maison Carrée, a 2 nd century AD Roman Temple, is one of the best-reserved ancient buildings anywhere in the world. It’s an astonishing sight, especially at dusk when the floodlights give it a magical aura.  

The Temple is on the same square as the Carré d’Art, a contemporary arts centre and museum designed by Norman Foster (who also designed the Viaduc de Millau. Even if a little Roman monument fatigue is beginning to creep in, the Arènes of Nimes is a must-see. Like that of Arles, this amphitheatre is in superb condition and still used for concerts and events.  

Getting To The South Of France

If you’re flying long-haul to France, from North America or Australia, it makes sense to fly to Paris, then catch the TGV (fast train) south to Avignon. You can then pick up your hire car from there. We recommend discover cars , who we use ourselves to find the best car rental deal in the area we’re exploring.

If you’re flying to the south of France from elsewhere in Europe, there are a multitude of airports in southern France to choose from.

You don’t necessarily have to start this south of France road trip from Avignon – you could easily do so from Carcassonne, which has a small airport that is a hub for budget carrier Ryanair.

I’ve flown into several other airports across the region, including Nimes (another Ryanair option), Marseille and Nice. You can also fly to Lyon (less than two hours’ drive north of Avignon) or even Grenoble, in the heart of the French Alps.  

South of France Road Trip – Final Thoughts

I hope this south of France road trip itinerary gives you some inspiration. It’s an astounding part of the world, and this mixture of Provence and Occitanie will encourage you to delve deeper into one, or both, of them.  

Check out more of our Europe road trip articles here:

• Normandy Road Trip – 7 days itinerary through gorgeous Normandy
• Portugal Road Trip – Alentejo – exploring the borderlands and backwoods of south-east Portugal
• Pembrokeshire Road Trip – 5 days around glorious West Wales
• Snowdonia Road Trip – 4 road itineraries around Eryri

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

100 days to go: 100 iconic places to discover in France before Paris 2024

The Opening Ceremony of the Olympic Games Paris 2024 will take place in exactly 100 days (on 26 July) along the Seine in the heart of the French capital, with a flotilla of boats flanked either side by some of the country's most cherished buildings and cultural gems.

But Paris is not alone in having breathtaking tourist sites , with the entire French territory populated with historical buildings and unique landscapes.

If you have secured your tickets to the Olympic Games or plan to book in the near future , spare some extra time to visit the rest of France: print this article, or take your notebook and write down some of the places below - you'll love to visit them!

This is a non-exhaustive and subjective list given the multitude of other exceptional places to visit in France.

Discover the map of the Olympic Torch Relay route ahead of the Olympic Games Paris 2024

Romantic castles in France

Chambord Castle (located in Loir-et-Cher): 16th century castle listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 July .

Chenonceau Castle (Indre-et-Loire): 16th century castle listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Blois Royal Castle (Loir-et-Cher): 13th century castle. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 July .

Cheverny Castle (Loir-et-Cher): inspiration for Tintin creator Hergé, which now hosts a permanent Tintin exhibition .

Guédelon Castle (Yonne): the site of a fortified castle, built using methods from the Middle Ages that started in 1997.

Versailles Castle (Yvelines): historic monument and former home of the kings of France since Louis XIV. The Paris 2024 equestrian and modern pentathlon events will take place here . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 July .

Vincennes Castle (Val-de-Marne): the largest royal castle in France. The Paris 2024 road cycling time trial will pass through here . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Ormesson Castle (Val-de-Marne): iconic Renaissance building from the 16th century. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Historical sites in France

Omaha Beach and the landing beaches (Calvados). On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 30 May .

Mont Saint-Michel (Manche): a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 31 May .

Place Stanislas in Nancy (Meurthe-et-Moselle): a classic urban spot listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1983.

European institutions of Strasbourg (Bas-Rhin): significant administrative organisations are located in this beautiful city. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Caves of Lascaux (Dordogne): paintings and engravings from the Paleolithic era can be seen on the walls of these caves. Discovered in 1940 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 22 May .

Vauban fortifications in Besançon (Doubs): Twelve fortified buildings listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 25 June .

Garabit Viaduct (Cantal): 19th century bridge designed and built by Gustave Eiffel a few years before the Eiffel Tower.

Hospices de Beaune (Côte d'Or): 15th century Gothic hospital, classified as a historical monument and converted into a museum. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 July .

Chauvet Cave - Pont d'Arc (Ardèche): discovered in 1994 and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this cave contains Paleolithic paintings estimated to be more than 30,000 years old.

Old Port of Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône): iconic area of the city a few steps from the Olympic sailing venue and the Marseille Marina . On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 8 May .

The Nîmes Arena (Gard): a Roman amphitheatre which dates back to the first century AD and is widely-considered one of the best-preserved antique arenas in the world.

The Millau Viaduct (Aveyron): an iconic cable-stayed bridge spanning the Tarn valley, which at its highest point reaches 343m. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 13 May .

Château d'If (Bouches-du-Rhône): a fortress built in the 16th century located off the coast of Marseilles, made famous by Alexandre Dumas’ novel "The Count of Monte Cristo".

The alignments of Carnac (Morbihan): a site with thousands of menhirs (megalithic stones) which were built between the 5th and 7th millennia BC.

Provins (Seine-et-Marne): a historic site from the Middle Ages which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Belfort Citadel (Territory of Belfort): a historic site built in the Middle Ages and expanded in the 19th century.

The City of Carcassonne (Aude): a medieval town which is acknowledged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 16 May .

Najac (Aveyron): a picturesque town located in the French commune of Aveyron, with six monuments listed in France’s historical monuments.

Palais Idéal du facteur Cheval (Drôme): 'The Postman Cheval's Ideal Palace' is a classified historical monument built by a postman between 1879 and 1912.

Iconic places in France

The Route des Grands Crus de Bourgogne (Côte d'Or): a 60km-long tourist route which weaves through 37 vineyards.

Oradour-sur-Glane (Haute-Vienne): a historic village and location of a wartime massacre, now a solemn place of remembrance.

La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime): located on the Atlantic coast, the fortified port dates back to the 14th and 15th centuries.

Port of Saint-Malo (Ille-et-Vilaine): a harbour which provides stunning views over the Emerald Coast. Don't miss the picture-postcard buildings in the town of Dinard and, in the distance, the tip of the Cape Fréhel. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Rennes (Ille-et-Vilaine): widely-considered the capital of Brittany and famous for its half-timbered houses, several of which date back to the 18th century, including the Parliament of Brittany, the Opera and City Hall. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Nantes (Loire-Atlantique): famed for its castle (Château des ducs de Bretagne), cathedral and the famous Passage Pommeraye. The city will host Olympic football matches at La Beaujoire Stadium .

'Promenade des Anglais' in Nice (Alpes-Maritimes): a famous avenue along the "Baie des anges" with several prestigious hotels within a short distance to another Olympic football stadium ( Nice Stadium ). On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 18 June .

Little Venice district in Colmar (Haut-Rhin): a picturesque district with several historic canals. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Troyes (Aube): a medieval town centred around beautiful buildings. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 13 July .

The Grand’Place in Lille (Nord): an outstanding urban site not far from Lille’s Olympic venue: Pierre-Mauroy Stadium. On the Olympic Torch Relay: 2 July .

The forest of Fontainebleau (Seine-et-Marne): a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site with its castle classified as a historical monument. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 20 July .

The Hippodrome (racecourse) of Enghien-Soisy, near Enghien-les-Bains (Val d’Oise): famous for its horse races. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 July .

The Bouchons Lyonnais (Rhône): traditional and local French restaurants, located near the Olympic venue Lyon Stadium .

Quais de Bordeaux (Gironde): the capital of Gironde, along the Garonne River where the Bordeaux Stadium - an Olympic football venue - is located. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 May .

Pays basque (Nouvelle-Aquitaine): a cultural region located by the Pyrenees on the border with Spain. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 20 May .

Saint-Cirq-Lapopie (Lot): a picture-perfect region in Lot and home to the Causses du Quercy Regional Natural Park, a UNESCO Global Geopark.

Saint-Antonin-Noble-Val (Tarn-et-Garonne): a commune listed among the Great Sites of the Occitanie region.

Pays Cathare (Occitanie): offers breathtaking views in the Aude region.

Gouffre de Padirac (Lot): a natural cave with an underground river flowing 100m below the surface.

Rocamadour (Lot): get your cameras ready for this local area highlighted by the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Dune of Pilat (Gironde): the highest sand dune in Europe, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the Arcachon Basin.

Cordes-sur-Ciel (Tarn): a commune listed in the association of the Most Beautiful Villages of France and voted France's Favourite Village in the TV show of the same name.

Collioure (Pyrénées-Orientales): an area located in Pyrénées-Orientales on the Mediterranean coast with a picturesque marina. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 15 May .

Rungis Market (Val-de-Marne): home of the biggest farmers market in the world. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 21 July .

Museums and cultural activities in France

Verdun Memorial (Meuse): a museum dedicated to the history of the Battle of Verdun that took place during World War I. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 29 June .

Louvre-Lens Museum (Pas-de-Calais): linked to the Louvre Museum by a scientific and cultural convention. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 3 July .

Armistice Memorial in Rethondes (Oise): dedicated to the armistice at the end of World War I.

Festival of Lights in Lyon (Rhône): an annual event where light installations are projected onto numerous buildings in the city.

Avignon Festival (Vaucluse): a famous month-long annual festival of theatre and other live performances.

Rencontres de la Photographie in Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône): an international photography festival.

Mucem (Bouches-du-Rhône): Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilisations in Marseille.

Musée des Confluences in Lyon (Rhône): a museum of natural history located where two famous rivers meet, the Rhône and the Saône.

Music Day (France): celebrations and concerts take place throughout the French territory on 21 June of each year.

Musée des Impressionnismes (Eure): museum dedicated to the impressionist movement located in Giverny, home of its most famous resident Claude Monnet.

Musée de la BD d’Angoulême (Charente): museum dedicated to comic books, where an annual festival is held every January. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 24 May .

LYON, FRANCE - DECEMBER 04: For four nights over 70 light installations will create a magical atmosphere in the streets, squares and parks all over the city and millions of visitors both French and from abroad will enjoy the friendly and joyful spirit of this unique event on December 4, 2014 in Lyon, France. (Photo by Bruno Vigneron/Getty Images)

Natural sites in France

La Chaîne of the Puys (Puy-de-Dôme): chain of 80 volcanos listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Vichy (Allier): a spa resort listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Poitevin Marsh (Vendée, Deux-Sèvres, Charente-Maritime): area of marshland nicknamed The Green Venice, where you can take a boat through meadows and woodlands. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 2 June .

Pink Granite Coast (Côtes d’Armor): coastline with pink rock formations more than 3,000 years old, and home to the Castle of Costaérès.

Les Abers (Finistère): picture-perfect fjords in Brittany. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 7 June .

Paimpon in the forest of Brocéliande (Ille-et-Vilaine): famous for its myths and legends since the Medieval Ages. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 1 June .

Loire Estuary (Loire-Atlantique): preserved wetlands.

Salt marshes of Guérande (Loire-Atlantique): an area spanning 50 km2 that has produced salt for thousands of years.

Cliffs of Étretat (Seine-Maritime): iconic site of Normandy with the famous Porte d’Aval, a natural arch made by the sea, on the white chalk coastline. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 5 July .

Verdon Gorge (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence, Var): a river canyon 25km in length with 700m cliffs.

Calanques national park (Bouches-du-Rhône): a series of creeks along the Mediterranean coastline that is lined with hiking trails between Marseille and Cassis. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Mont-Blanc (Haute-Savoie): the highest mountain in the Alps and Western Europe (4,805m) and Aiguille du midi (3,842m), that is reachable by cable car. Mont-Blanc is located at the edge of Chamonix city, host of Chamonix 1924 , the first Winter Olympic Games in history. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 23 June .

Montagne Sainte-Victoire (Bouches-du-Rhône): iconic mountain made famous by the painter Paul Cézanne. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Parc naturel régional du Luberon (Vaucluse and Alpes-de-Haute-Provence): mediterranean mountain with multiple picturesque villages.

Gorges de l’Ardèche (Ardèche): a 30-kilometre canyon with limestone cliffs overlooking the Ardèche river.

Port-Cros national park (Var): a natural site made up of several islands off the Mediterranean coast of Hyères. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 10 May .

Scandola Nature Reserve (Corse-du-Sud): an iconic marina home to exceptional biodiversity and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 14 May .

Pic du Midi de Bigorre (Hautes-Pyrénées): a mountain in the French Pyrenees, famous for its observatory. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 May .

Cirque de Gavarnie (Hautes-Pyrénées): a picture-perfect valley in the central Pyrenees.

Gorges de l’Aveyron (Tarn-et-Garonne and Aveyron): a series of gorges registered as part of the Great Sites of the Occitanie region.

Parc naturel régional de Camargue (Bouches-du-Rhône): a 372,000-acre protected wetland home to a wide variety of plants and animals, including 30,000 pink flamingos. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 12 May .

Jura lakes (Jura): 70 lakes famed for their astonishing beauty and connected by a 93-mile road with panoramic views.

CHAMONIX-MONT-BLANC, FRANCE - FEBRUARY 25: Alpine skiers ski down a piste at La Flegere ski resort as the Mont Blanc summit is seen in the distance on February 25, 2018 near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, France. The French Alps are a popular destination for skiers and climbers, though they are also dangerous. Several visitors have fallen to their deaths while skiing or snowboarding off piste just in recent weeks. (Photo by Sean Gallup/Getty Images)

There’s more than one Notre-Dame!

Chartres Cathedral (Eure-et-Loire): a 12th century Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 7 July .

Saint-Étienne de Bourges Cathedral (Cher): a 12th century Gothic cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, near the Chateauroux Shooting Centre at Paris 2024 .

Sainte-Croix d’Orléans Cathedral (Loiret): a 13th century Gothic cathedral. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 10 July .

Basilique Notre-Dame-du-Port de Clermont-Ferrand (Puy-de-Dôme): a 12th century Romanesque basilica and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Notre-Dame de l’Assomption de Clermont Cathedral (Puy-de-Dôme): a 13th century Gothic cathedral.

Notre-Dame du Puy-en-Velay Cathedral (Haute-Loire): a 13th century Romanesque cathedral and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Abbey of Fontenay (Côte d'Or): the oldest preserved Cistercian abbey, built in the 12th century, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Basilique Sainte-Marie-Madeleine de Vézelay (Côte d'Or): a Romanesque and Gothic basilica erected in the 12th century and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 11 July .

Notre-Dame de La Charité-sur-Loire Priory (Yonne): 11th century Romanesque priory and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre Cathedral (Yonne): 16th century Gothic cathedral. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 11 July .

Notre-Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral (Bas-Rhin): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 26 June .

Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral (Marne): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 30 June .

Notre-Dame d'Amiens Cathedral (Somme): a Gothic cathedral listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 4 July .

Palais des Papes of Avignon (Vaucluse): a Middle Age Gothic palace where the Pope lived in the 14th century. On the Olympic Torch Relay route: 19 June .

Notre-Dame-de-La-Garde Cathedral (Bouches-du-Rhône): a cathedral overlooking the city of Marseille – where the Marseille stadium and Marina , two Olympic venues, are located – that is nicknamed ‘La Bonne Mère’.

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The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches 2024 – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Exploring historic churches is not just a journey through religious architecture; it’s an exploration of history, art, and spirituality. These sacred spaces, ranging from grand cathedrals to intimate chapels, offer a glimpse into their times’ cultural and spiritual life. This guide will take you through 10 of the world’s most historic and awe-inspiring churches, revealing their stories and the secrets they hold.

1. Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris, France

Experience the grandeur of Gothic architecture at Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. Situated on the Île de la Cité, this historical marvel boasts flying buttresses, gargoyles, and remarkable rose windows. Inside, the cathedral is just as impressive, with its high vaulted ceilings and beautiful stained glass. Don’t miss the Treasury for its sacred relics and the opportunity to climb the towers, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the Seine and the Parisian skyline. Visit in the evening to catch the magnificent light show or attend an organ concert for an immersive experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend an evening concert to experience the cathedral’s acoustics.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for fewer crowds.

How To Get There: Easily accessible via the Cité or Saint-Michel Notre-Dame metro stations.

2. St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Italy

Visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City to witness the heart of the Catholic world and a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture. Inside, you’ll find stunning works of art, including Michelangelo’s Pietà and Bernini’s Baldachin. The climb to the top of the dome offers a breathtaking panoramic view of Rome and the Vatican gardens. The scale of the basilica is awe-inspiring, from its imposing facade to the vastness of its interior. Remember to dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting this sacred site.

Insider’s Tip: Dress conservatively as a sign of respect for this sacred site.

When To Travel: Visit in the off-season to avoid long lines.

How To Get There: Reachable by metro (Ottaviano-S. Pietro-Musei Vaticani station).

3. Sagrada Família, Barcelona, Spain

The Sagrada Família, Antoni Gaudí’s renowned unfinished masterpiece, uniquely explores architectural innovation in Barcelona. The church’s facades, each depicting different biblical themes, are a testament to Gaudí’s creative genius. The stained-glass windows create a symphony of light that illuminates the intricate columns and ceilings. Ascend the towers for a closer look at the architectural details and a panoramic view of the city. The ongoing construction, part of the church’s charm, speaks to the evolving nature of this iconic structure.

Insider’s Tip: Book tickets online in advance to skip the long queues.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall for a more peaceful visit.

How To Get There: Accessible via the Sagrada Família metro station.

4. Westminster Abbey, London, England

Explore the rich history of England at Westminster Abbey in London. This Gothic church is a place of worship and a significant site for royal ceremonies and burials. The abbey houses tombs of monarchs, poets, and scientists, each with their own story. The Poets’ Corner is particularly noteworthy, resting place of figures like Shakespeare and Dickens. Try to attend Evensong for a traditional Anglican service accompanied by the renowned choir, a truly serene experience.

Insider’s Tip: Attend the Evensong service for a spiritual and musical experience.

When To Travel: Weekday mornings are typically less crowded.

How To Get There: A short walk from Westminster or St. James’s Park tube stations.

5. St. Basil’s Cathedral, Moscow, Russia

St. Basil’s Cathedral in Moscow, with its colorful, onion-domed towers, symbolizes Russia’s architectural creativity. Each dome of this iconic cathedral represents a different chapel, with vibrant frescoes and ornate altars. The interior is a maze of narrow corridors and small chapels, each uniquely decorated. Visit at night when the cathedral is illuminated to fully appreciate its beauty and the intricate details of its design.

Insider’s Tip: Visit at night when the cathedral is beautifully illuminated.

When To Travel: Late spring or early summer for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Located in Red Square, it’s easily accessible on foot from many parts of central Moscow.

6. Chartres Cathedral, Chartres, France

Immerse yourself in the spiritual ambiance of Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning architecture and stained-glass windows. The cathedral’s labyrinth on the floor is a highlight, offering a meditative journey for visitors. The blue Chartres stained glass, especially in the famous Rose Window, is renowned for its vibrancy and craftsmanship. The cathedral also hosts light shows illuminating its exterior, showcasing its spectacular architectural details.

Insider’s Tip: Try to visit on a sunny day when the stained glass truly comes to life.

When To Travel: Spring or early fall to avoid the tourist peak season.

How To Get There: About an hour by train from Paris.

7. Duomo di Milano, Milan, Italy

Discover the Duomo di Milano, an iconic symbol of Milan and one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world. Its elaborate façade, adorned with numerous statues and spires, is an architectural marvel. The interior is equally impressive, with high ceilings and stained-glass windows depicting various biblical stories. Don’t miss the chance to visit the rooftop terraces, where you can walk among the spires and enjoy a unique view of Milan’s cityscape.

Insider’s Tip: The rooftop is especially impressive at sunset.

When To Travel: Visit in the shoulder season to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: It’s located in the city center and accessible by metro (Duomo station).

8. Hagia Sophia, Istanbul, Turkey

Explore the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, a magnificent structure that has stood as a church, a mosque, and now a museum. This architectural marvel boasts a massive dome, stunning mosaics, and Islamic calligraphy. Its upper galleries provide a closer view of the intricate mosaics and offer a unique perspective of the interior and the sprawling city outside. The Hagia Sophia is a testament to Istanbul’s diverse religious history and architectural innovation.

Insider’s Tip: Look for the Viking graffiti on the upper gallery marble balustrades.

When To Travel: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

How To Get There: Situated in Sultanahmet, it’s easily accessible by tram.

9. Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Florence, Italy

Visit the Florence Cathedral, an architectural masterpiece in the heart of the city. Known for its striking red dome designed by Brunelleschi, the cathedral stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Renaissance. The exterior, with its intricate marble panels, is as impressive as the vast interior. Climbing the dome is a highlight, offering stunning views of Florence and a close-up look at the frescoes inside the dome.

Insider’s Tip: Visit the adjacent Baptistery to see the famous bronze doors.

When To Travel: Early spring or late fall to avoid the heavy tourist crowds.

How To Get There: Located in the heart of Florence, it’s best explored on foot.

10. Cologne Cathedral, Cologne, Germany

Experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of Cologne Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. The cathedral’s twin spires dominate Cologne’s skyline, and its interior houses an impressive collection of art, including the Shrine of the Three Kings. The stained-glass windows, particularly the modern ones in the south transept, are notable for their intricate designs and vivid colors. Climbing the south tower rewards you with a panoramic view of Cologne and the Rhine River.

Insider’s Tip: Climb the south tower for a breathtaking view of the city and the Rhine.

When To Travel: Visit during the week to avoid weekend crowds.

How To Get There: Conveniently located near the main train station in Cologne.

The Bottom Line

Your journey through these historic churches is more than just a tour of religious sites; it explores history, culture, and art. Each church offers a unique window into the past, from the Gothic spires of Cologne to the Byzantine domes of Hagia Sophia. As you wander these sacred spaces, take a moment to appreciate the silence, the beauty, and the stories they hold. Every stone, window, and painting in these churches has a tale to tell, waiting for you to discover.

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The post The Ultimate Guide to Exploring 10 Historic Churches – Sacred Spaces and Their Stories republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Korkusung.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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• International

Iran attack on Israel

Mayorkas impeachment proceedings

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April 14, 2024 - Iran's attack on Israel

By Jerome Taylor, Heather Chen , James Legge, Sophie Tanno, Emma Tucker , Kaanita Iyer , Paul LeBlanc , Catherine Nicholls, Maureen Chowdhury , Antoinette Radford and Eve Rothenberg, CNN

Our live coverage of Iran's attack on Israel has moved  here .

India calls on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board seized container ship 

From CNN's Sandi Sidhu in Hong Kong 

India has called on Iran to release 17 Indian crew members on board a container ship seized by Iran on Saturday. 

Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said that he spoke to his Iranian counterpart Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir Abdollahian and "took up the release of 17 Indian crew members of MSC Aries."

Four Filipino seamen were also on board the ship, according to the Philippine Department of Migrant Workers.

The department said it was working with its government, the ship owner, and the operator to release the captured seafarers.

On Saturday, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards seized an Israeli-linked container ship in a helicopter operation near the Strait of Hormuz, state news agency IRNA reported. 

Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC) said there were 25 crew members on board.

Japanese prime minister condemns Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Junko Ogura in Tokyo 

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday said he "strongly condemns" Iran's missile and drone attack on Israel.

"(The attack) further aggravates the current situation in the Middle East. We are deeply concerned and strongly condemn such an escalation," Kishida told reporters.

Kishida said Japan would continue diplomatic efforts to "prevent the situation from worsening and to calm the situation down," and "respond in cooperation with other countries."

Blinken calls British and German counterparts following Iran's attack on Israel

From CNN's Philip Wang 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken spoke with his counterparts from the United Kingdom and Germany on Sunday following Iran's attack on Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

All parties agreed "the importance of condemning Iran's attack in the strongest possible terms and preventing further escalation," the readout said. 

Blinken earlier held phone calls with his counterparts from Turkey, Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia , in which he emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the Middle East and of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

US forces destroyed more than 80 attack drones from Iran and Yemen, Central Command says

From CNN's Philip Wang

US forces intercepted more than 80 one-way attack drones and at least six ballistic missiles from Iran and Yemen during its attack on Israel, according to a statement from the Central Command.

The operation included destroying a ballistic missile on its launcher vehicle and seven drones on the ground in Iranian-backed Houthi-controlled areas of Yemen, CENTCOM said. 

"Iran's continued unprecedented, malign, and reckless behavior endangers regional stability and the safety of U.S. and coalition forces," the statement added. 

Israeli and Iranian ambassadors trade accusations during UN Security Council session

From Abel Alvarado in Atlanta

Israel and Iran’s United Nations ambassadors condemned each other’s actions during Sunday’s UN Security Council emergency session called to address Iran’s attack on Israel.

Israel’s UN ambassador Gilad Erdan said Iran "must be stopped before it drives the world to a point of no return, to a regional war that can escalate to a world war." Erdan accused Iran of seeking world domination and that its attack proved that Tehran "cares nothing, nothing for Islam or Muslims" before pulling out a tablet to show a video of Israel intercepting Iranian drones above Jerusalem’s Al-Aqsa Mosque.

Erdan called on the UN Security Council to designate the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terror organization.

“Action must be taken now, not for Israel's sake, not for the region's sake, but for the world's sake. Stop Iran today."

Iran’s UN Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani said his country’s operation was "entirely in the exercise of Iran’s inherent right to self-defense, as outlined in Article 51 of the Charter of the United Nations and recognized by international law."

Iravani said:

"This concluded action was necessary and proportionate," adding that the operation was “precise and only targeted military objectives” to reduce the potential of escalation and to prevent civilian harm. “Iran is never seeking to contribute to the spillover of the conflict in the region, nor does it to escalate or spread the tension to the entire region," he said.

Tehran’s attack had been anticipated since  a suspected Israeli strike  on an Iranian diplomatic complex in Syria earlier this month.

Iravani added Iran has “no intention of engaging in conflict with the US in the region” but warned Iran will use its “inherent right to respond proportionately” should the US initiate a military operation against “Iran, its citizens or its security.”

Israeli war cabinet says it's ready to respond to Iran's attack but delays immediate action. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

The hours-long Israeli war cabinet meeting ended Sunday night without a decision on how Israel will respond to Iran’s missile and drone attack , an Israeli official said.

The cabinet is determined to respond — but has yet to decide on the timing and scope and the official said the military has been tasked with coming up with additional options for a response.

Separately, a senior Biden administration official told reporters that an Israeli official told the United States that it's not looking to significantly escalate the showdown with Iran.

CNN analyst Barak Ravid said Israeli ministers Benny Gantz and Gadi Eisenkot advocated for swift action, but US President Joe Biden's phone call with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu led to a decision to delay the response until the next day. 

Here are the latest headlines:

• Retaliation is over, Iran told US: Iran privately messaged the United States that its retaliation against Israel had concluded, echoing what Tehran said publicly, according to a senior administration official. Late Saturday, Iran said its attack on Israel is a response to Israel's strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, and "the matter can be deemed concluded." However, President Ebrahim Raisi said any “new aggression against the interests of the Iranian nation will be met with a heavier and regrettable response,” according to Iran’s state news channel IRIB. 
• United Nations response: UN Secretary-General António Guterres  called for a de-escalation of violence after Iran’s attack. Guterres said the United Nations and member countries have a “shared responsibility” to engage “all parties concerned to prevent further escalation.” He also called for a ceasefire in the Israel-Gaza conflict. “Neither the region nor the world can afford more war,” he said.
• G7 and others: Amid a flurry of diplomatic activity in response to Iran's attack, the G7 nations said they would work together to "stabilize the situation" in the Middle East, according to a statement from Biden. Also, Jordan summoned Iran's ambassador in Amman on Sunday after it intercepted Iranian drones over the country.
• Meanwhile in Gaza: As thousands of Palestinians were turned away from returning to their homes in northern Gaza on Sunday, a 5-year-old girl was shot in the head by Israeli soldiers, her mother said. Video showed a man carrying a 5-year-old girl named Sally Abu Laila, who was bleeding from her head, with people crowding around her in panic trying to cover her wound.

Also on Sunday:

• Israel decided to lift its restrictions on large gatherings and to reopen schools on Monday.
• The US Department of Homeland Security has not identified any “specific or credible threats” to the US since Iran attacked Israel.

Blinken calls Turkish, Egyptian, Jordanian and Saudi counterparts following Iran's attack 

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Sunday spoke with his counterparts in Turkey, Egypt, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia following Iran's attacks in Israel, according to readouts from the State Department. 

During his phone calls, Blinken emphasized the importance of avoiding escalation in the region and the importance of "a coordinated diplomatic response."

In his conversation with Jordan and Egypt, Blinken also underlined the significance of achieving an "enduring end to the crisis in Gaza."

Iran will be held responsible if any action is taken against the US or Israel, deputy ambassador warns

From CNN’s Abel Alvarado

The United States warned Iran against taking any action against the US or Israel during the UN Security Council emergency session over Iran’s attack on Israel.

“Let me be clear, if Iran or its proxies take actions against the US or further action against Israel, Iran will be held responsible,” US Deputy Ambassador to the UN Robert Wood said Sunday.

The United States is “not seeking escalation, our actions have been purely defensive in nature,” adding that the “best way to prevent such escalation is an unambiguous condemnation of the council of Iran’s unprecedented large-scale attack,” he said.

The envoy reiterated US support for Israel and condemned Iran’s attack. “Iran’s intent was to cause significant damage and death in Israel,” Wood said.

Wood also said the UN Security Council had an “obligation to not let Iran’s actions go unanswered.”

“For far too long, Iran has flagrantly violated its international legal obligations,” he said before listing occasions Iran has violated UN Security Council resolutions and international law.

Wood accused Iran of being in a “broad sense complicit” of the October 7 attack on Israel by providing “significant funding and training for the military wing of Hamas.”

He added the US will explore "additional measures to hold Iran accountable here in the UN.”

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Stanley Just Launched A Collection Of Picnic Accessories (Including A Convenient Tumbler Bag) That’s Perfect For Spring

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You probably know Stanley for its mega-viral Quencher H2.O FlowState Tumblers . But the brand also makes lots of other drinkware, cookware, coolers and camping essentials. Today, it officially launched the All Day Collection , which features two soft-sided coolers, a Quencher tumbler holder and two insulated bottles perfect for chilling wine. It’s essentially everything you need for a spring picnic (minus the food and drinks), and the pieces are already selling out in some colorways.

Stanley's All Day Collection just launched this morning, and it's already selling out.

So far, the coolers seem to be the most popular items from the launch—both have sold out in every color but cream. And the Quencher Carry-All (a.k.a. the tumbler holder) isn’t far behind—it’s already sold out in two shades. If you’re interested in checking out the new collection, we suggest you do it soon.

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The best baby gifts, from stylish gear to practical presents, shop the new collection, a new way to bring your tumbler on the go, stanley all day 40-ounce quencher carry-all.

The Stanley tumbler has a ton of advantages, but it’s not known for being the most portable option. The new Carry-All changes that. It gives you the ability to tote your Quencher around hands-free, and has a convenient pocket and card sleeve so you can stash your essentials without having to bring a separate bag.

A Convenient Cooler Backpack

Stanley 1913

Stanley All Day Madeleine Midi Cooler Backpack

This compact cooler backpack has a 20-can storage capacity and can keep your provisions chilled for up to 24 hours. It seems like the perfect accessory for a beach day or a picnic at the park.

This 10-Can Mini Cooler

Stanley all day julienne mini cooler.

If you don’t need something with a 20-can capacity, check out the smaller Julienne Mini Cooler. It can hold up to 10 cans and will comfortably fit everything you need for one meal for a few people. It’ll only keep items cold for 12 hours, though.

A Chiller To Keep Beverages Ice Cold

Stanley all day 34-ounce slim bottle.

Ensure that your rosé stays ice cold this summer by transferring it into this 34-ounce bottle. The insulated design can hold a standard bottle of wine and keep it chilled for up to 17 hours.

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Biden is canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers. Here's who is eligible.

By Aimee Picchi

Edited By Alain Sherter

Updated on: April 12, 2024 / 3:29 PM EDT / CBS News

The Biden administration on Friday said it's canceling $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers, with the recipients scheduled to receive emails today to alert them to their loan discharges. 

The latest effort extends the debt relief provider under President Joe Biden after the Supreme Court last year blocked  his administration's plan for broad-based student loan forgiveness. With the latest batch of loan cancellations, the White House said it has forgiven about $153 billion in debt for 4.3 million student borrowers. 

Biden, who had made student loan relief a major campaign pledge, is tackling an issue that affects about 43 million Americans with a combined  $1.7 trillion in student debt. It's a burden that some borrowers and their advocates say has harmed their ability to save for a home or achieve financial milestones, an issue that was echoed by Education Secretary Miguel Cardona in a conference call with reporters. 

"I talked to a teacher in New York this week who took out a loan for $30,000," Cardona said Friday, "and after over a decade of paying and being a teacher the debt was $60,000, and she was saying that the interest was so high that the payments that she was making wasn't even touching her principal."

He added, "We are fixing a broken system. We're relentless and taking steps to transform a broken system into one that works people across the country."

Here's what to know about who is eligible for the latest round of forgiveness.

Who qualifies for the student loan forgiveness?

Three groups of people qualify under the latest round of debt relief, the White House said. 

• $3.6 billion for 206,800 borrowers enrolled in the SAVE plan.

About $3.6 billion will be forgiven for nearly 207,000 borrowers enrolled in the Saving on a Valuable Education (SAVE) plan, an income-driven repayment program, or IDR, that the Biden administration created last year. 

The White House said borrowers who are getting their debt discharged under SAVE had taken out smaller loans for their college studies. The plan allows people to receive forgiveness after they made at least 10 years of payments if they originally took out $12,000 or less in loans to pay for college; borrowers with larger loans are eligible after 20 or 25 years of repayment, depending on what types of loans they have. 

 "You sacrifice and you've saved for a decade or more to make your student loan payments, and you originally borrowed $12,000 or less, you're going to see relief," Cardona told reporters. "An overwhelming number of those who qualify for SAVE were eligible for Pell grants and come from low- and middle-income communities."

• $3.5 billion for 65,700 borrowers in income-repayment plans.

These borrowers will receive forgiveness through "administrative adjustments" to repayment plans where loan servicers had made it tougher for some borrowers to qualify for relief.  

"These are people who paid for a long time but were being deprived of relief because of administrative and servicing failures," Cardona said. "These people met the contract of their loan" and will receive forgiveness.

• $300 million for 4,600 borrowers through Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF).  

The PSLF program is designed to help public servants like teachers and government employees achieve debt forgiveness after 10 years of repayment. It's a program that started in 2007 but had been plagued with complex rules that effectively hampered people from getting their debt discharged, with only 7,000 receiving loan forgiveness prior to the Biden administration. 

With the latest round of discharges, the Biden administration has forgiven $62.8 billion in loans for 876,000 borrowers through PSLF. 

Are there legal challenges to Biden's debt forgiveness plans?

In two separate lawsuits, Republican attorneys general in 18 states are pushing to have the SAVE plan tossed and to halt any further student debt cancellation. They say the SAVE plan oversteps Biden's authority and makes it harder for states to recruit employees. They also contend the plan undermines a separate cancellation program that encourages careers in public service.

It's unclear what the suits could mean for loans that have already been canceled. A court document filed by Kansas' attorney general says it's "unrealistic to think that any loan forgiveness that occurs during this litigation will ever be clawed back."

—With reporting by the Associated Press.

• Biden Administration
• Student Loan

Aimee Picchi is the associate managing editor for CBS MoneyWatch, where she covers business and personal finance. She previously worked at Bloomberg News and has written for national news outlets including USA Today and Consumer Reports.

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