Most travelers will find that 9 to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced France trip with stops in Nice, Avignon, and Paris. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in seven or eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Those with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some favored itinerary extensions include Lyon, Aix-en-Provence, or Marseille. Get inspired with the below Nice, Avignon, and Paris trip ideas.
Set in northern France along the coast of the English Channel, Normandy is known for its chalky-white cliffs and beaches, the famous Mont-Saint-Michel island, the WWII D-Day landings, and picturesque half-timbered houses surrounded by dairy farms. History is the region's highlight, but you'll also find treasured towns like Honfleur and the Pays d'Auge, gourmet cheese, cider farms, and many sites of famous Impressionist works of art, plus the home and gardens of Claude Monet.
France is known for its world-class wines, picturesque countryside, and variegated history. With the help of our local experts, you'll discover both the highlights and hidden treasures of Paris, stroll through romantic hidden villages and indulge in French gastronomy to your heart's content. In this article, we'll go over how kimkim will help you craft the perfect French adventure.
France is a dream destination for many, but if it's your first time visiting, you probably have plenty of questions. How many days should I spend? Is there a tipping culture? What should I pack? This guide answers the most common FAQs to help you navigate France with ease—whether you're exploring Paris, sipping wine in Bordeaux, or sunning on the French Riviera.
Known for its wine and imposing chateaus, France's Loire Valley gives you those quintessential French vibes and experiences, with rolling hills dotted with fairytale-like castles and endless vineyards stretching across the region. Visit Leonardo da Vinci's mansion, sip on organic wine, cycle between chateaus, take a hot air balloon ride above the landscape, and discover humble villages, all within one compact area.
Nice is brimming with unique cultural aspects, including vibrant markets showing off its signature Niçois cuisine, tiny multi-generational wine regions, a gorgeous coastline dotted with historic villages, and the title of the birthplace of perfume. Explore the city by diving deep into its culture, enjoying those legendary sunsets, and discovering neighboring villages and cities, such as Monaco, Eze, Cannes, and Antibes.
For a solid France itinerary that covers two regions plus Paris, a 10-day trip is a great choice. With less time, a well-rounded trip is still within reach, especially if you're willing to forego time in Paris to see more of the country. And, of course, the lucky travelers with two weeks or more will have no shortage of things to see and do. Check out some possible itineraries from 5 to 14 days below.
The Mediterranean coast remains quiet with near-empty beaches offering a serene environment in a part of France that is crazy busy the rest of the year. Meanwhile, the Provençal Christmas season continues seeing plenty of food and wine festivals, among others, there's the much-sought-after black truffle. Hit the slopes of any of the stellar resorts, shop the winter sales, and discover cultural delights within Lourmarin's Château walls.
Known as "mini Paris," Aix-en-Provence sits in the heart of the Provence region, known for its charm, lavender, wine, and unique signature cuisine. Spend time exploring these claims to fame with cooking classes, wine tastings, drives through lavender fields, and walking tours. Then head out into the countryside and discover more Provençal charm, such as in the city of Avignon, the scenic hilltop villages of Luberon, or the impressive Verdon Canyon.
Travelers to France typically plan a trip for 11 to 14 days when combining Paris, Bayeux, and Saint-Malo with Amboise. For travelers wanting to visit Paris, Bayeux, and Saint-Malo exclusively, plan 8 to 10 days for a well-paced trip. A fast-paced highlights trip is possible in five to seven days for travelers with limited time. For the best itineraries, including Paris, Bayeux, and Saint-Malo, keep reading below.