Sampling oysters on the northern coast of Normandy, sipping stellar vintages in Bordeaux and wandering the soul-stirring streets of Paris: the French holiday of your dreams awaits.
Whether you want to tick off the greatest hits or seek out more under-the-radar spots, these itineraries will take you all over the country.
Ranging from a 3-day north-south journey from Calais to the Alps to a 9-day trip crisscrossing France to cover many highlights, these routes can be extended by adding extra days at various stops or combining multiple routes to make the perfect trip.
1. Hit France’s most iconic sites
Allow at least 9 days
Distance: 1200km (746 miles)
If you’ve always dreamed of seeing the best of France, this highlight-studded trip is for you. Expect world-class museums and châteaux, Roman relics and a dizzying dose of urban action by the sea. With more time, each stop can (and really should) easily be extended by a few days.
Paris: 2 days
The bird’s-eye city view from the Eiffel Tower – especially by night – is a breathtaking introduction to the capital that never gets old. Alternatively, gorge on the Paris panorama that unfurls from atop the Arc de Triomphe instead. Don’t miss a concert in the soul-stirring Sainte-Chapelle and the splendor of Versailles. Factor in ample time for cafe lounging, bistro lunches and Seine-side strolls.
Next stop: Take a train from Paris to Blois (1.5 hours).
Blois: 1 day
Four centuries of French history come alive in the small town of Blois, the one-time feudal seat of powerful counts. Play the French flâneur in its old-town tangle of tuff mansions and half-timbered houses, then plunge into Château de Blois’ bloody history. Rent a bicycle or e-bike to devote the afternoon to the Renaissance confection Château de Chambord, 16km (10 miles) east.
Next stop: Drive from Blois to the Vezère Valley (4 hours).
Vezère Valley: 1 day
Descending into caves painted by prehistoric artists is the subterranean thrill of this rural valley in the Dordogne. Learn the back story at the Musée National de Préhistoire in the pretty riverside village of Les Eyzies before plunging into nearby Grotte de Font de Gaume and later Lascaux in Montignac. Buy tickets for both in advance…
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