Embark on a captivating journey through France, exploring its rich history, majestic castles, and renowned wine regions. This itinerary guides you from Paris to Normandy, the Loire Valley, Bordeaux, Dordogne, and back to Paris, offering a blend of cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Let’s start with a map:
Day 1-3: Normandy
- Suggested length: 3 days
- Total distance: Approximately 500 km (310 miles)
Rouen
Step into history in Rouen, a city of medieval charm and rich heritage. Admire the Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece that inspired Monet’s paintings.
Wander the cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and visit the Gros-Horloge, a stunning 14th-century astronomical clock.
Stand at the Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431—today, a church honors her memory.
Caen
A city shaped by both medieval and modern history, Caen is home to the Caen Memorial Museum, one of France’s best WWII museums.
Discover powerful exhibits on the D-Day landings, the Battle of Normandy, and the path to peace.
Explore the ruins of Caen Castle, once home to William the Conqueror, and stroll through the charming Abbaye aux Hommes, a Romanesque masterpiece.
D-Day Beaches & Cemeteries
Walk in the footsteps of history at the D-Day landing beaches—Utah, Omaha, Juno, Sword, and Gold.
These shores saw the largest amphibious invasion of World War II on June 6, 1944.
Visit the museums and memorials to learn about the bravery of Allied soldiers.
The American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking Omaha Beach, is a moving tribute.
Bayeux
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Step back in time with the Bayeux Tapestry, a 1,000-year-old embroidered masterpiece that tells the story of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England in 1066.
Stroll through the charming old town with its half-timbered houses and visit the impressive Bayeux Cathedral, a Gothic gem.
Mont-Saint-Michel
Rising from the sea like a fairytale castle, Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France’s most magical sights.
Wander its narrow medieval streets, climb up to the breathtaking abbey, and take in panoramic views of the vast surrounding bay.
Watch the tide change—one of nature’s great spectacles!
Day 4-6: Loire Valley
- Suggested Length: 3 days
- Total Distance: Approximately 400 km (250 miles)
Château de Chambord
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Step into a fairytale at Château de Chambord, the largest and most extravagant castle in the Loire Valley.
Designed with influence from Leonardo da Vinci, its double-helix staircase and 440 rooms make it an architectural wonder.
Climb to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the vast hunting grounds.
Château de Chenonceau
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Known as the “Ladies’ Château”, Chenonceau spans the River Cher with graceful arches, making it one of the most picturesque castles in France.
Walk through its beautifully decorated rooms, once home to powerful women like Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de’ Medici, and stroll through its stunning gardens.
Château d’Amboise
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Perched above the Loire River, the Château d’Amboise was once a royal residence.
Visit the Chapel of Saint-Hubert, the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, and admire the panoramic views from the castle’s terraces.
Just a short walk away is Clos Lucé, where da Vinci spent his final years.
Tours
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
The lively city of Tours blends history with a vibrant atmosphere.
Wander the medieval Place Plumereau, known for its half-timbered houses and cafés.
Visit the Tours Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece with breathtaking stained-glass windows.
Chinon
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
A town rich in history, Chinon is famous for its medieval fortress, which played a key role in the Hundred Years’ War.
Climb up to the Château de Chinon, where Joan of Arc met the future King Charles VII.
After exploring, enjoy a glass of local wine in the town’s charming streets.
Wine Tastings in Chinon or Saumur
The Loire Valley is famous for its wines! Head to Chinon or Saumur for tastings at charming vineyards and underground wine cellars.
Sample Cabernet Franc reds in Chinon or the crisp sparkling wines of Saumur.
Many wineries offer guided tours to share the secrets of their craft.
Day 7-10: Bordeaux & Dordogne
- Suggested Length: 4 days
- Total Distance: Approximately 600 km (375 miles)
Bordeaux
A city of elegance and world-class wine, Bordeaux blends history with modern charm.
Stroll along the Garonne River, admire the grand Place de la Bourse, and see the stunning Water Mirror reflecting the city’s beauty.
Don’t miss the Cité du Vin, an interactive museum dedicated to the world of wine.
Saint-Émilion
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
A postcard-perfect village, Saint-Émilion is a paradise for wine lovers and history buffs alike.
Wander its cobbled streets, visit the monolithic church carved into limestone, and enjoy a wine tasting at one of the many vineyards producing world-famous Merlot wines.
The rolling vineyards surrounding the village are a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Bergerac
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Famous for its connection to Cyrano de Bergerac, this riverside town is a delightful stop for wine lovers.
Visit the Maison des Vins for a tasting of the region’s best wines, including the sweet white wines of Monbazillac.
Take a peaceful boat ride on the Dordogne River to soak in the scenic beauty of the region.
Périgueux
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
The capital of the Dordogne, Périgueux is rich in both Roman and medieval history.
Visit the impressive Saint-Front Cathedral, with its Byzantine-style domes, and explore the Vesunna Museum, built around the ruins of a Roman villa.
Wander the charming old town, filled with lively markets and cafés.
Sarlat-la-Canéda
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Step into a medieval fairytale in Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of France’s best-preserved old towns.
Golden stone buildings, narrow alleys, and bustling markets make this a must-visit in the Dordogne region.
Try local specialties like truffles and foie gras as you explore its enchanting squares.
Lascaux Caves
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Travel back 17,000 years at the Lascaux Caves, home to some of the world’s most famous prehistoric cave paintings.
While the original caves are closed to the public, the Lascaux IV replica offers an incredible, lifelike experience.
Marvel at the detailed depictions of ancient animals, created by early humans.
Day 11-14: Return to Paris via Chartres
- Suggested Length: 4 days
- Total Distance: Approximately 600 km (375 miles)
Orléans
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
A city steeped in history, Orléans is forever linked to Joan of Arc, who helped liberate it during the Hundred Years’ War.
Visit the Maison de Jeanne d’Arc, a museum dedicated to her legacy, and admire the Orléans Cathedral, which echoes the grandeur of Notre-Dame de Paris.
Wander through the lively streets and squares, filled with cafés and boutiques.
Chartres
Voir cette publication sur Instagram
A jewel of Gothic architecture, Chartres is home to the magnificent Chartres Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Marvel at its stained-glass windows, some of the finest in the world, and walk the labyrinth inside, a symbol of spiritual journey.
Stroll through the charming old town, with its half-timbered houses and riverside walkways.
Palace of Versailles
End your journey in royal splendor at the Palace of Versailles, the legendary residence of Louis XIV, the Sun King.
Explore the opulent Hall of Mirrors, the King’s Apartments, and the vast Gardens of Versailles, filled with fountains and perfectly manicured landscapes.
Don’t miss the Grand Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, a rustic retreat built for the queen.
With a passion for travel and having visited over 50 countries, Dorian is eager to share his favorite spots and expert tips to help you explore Paris and France like a local.
