Best of the Loire Valley

Top itineraries and travel advice in and around Loire Valley

Occupying a once-strategic zone between northern and southern France, the fertile Loire Valley became the go-to place for kings, queens and high-ranking aristocracy to build their opulent castles. As a result, this region is one of scenic splendor, where grand châteaux (decorative fortresses) line beautiful riverside and highly-regarded vineyards carpet the gentle hillsides. Much of the area is also Unesco-listed. See a stately country château like Château de Chambord (the Loire Valley's largest) and Château de Chenonceau, with a two-storey galley prettily straddling the Loire river. Explore the delightful wine country with a tour of one or more of the excellent wineries, such as those in the Bourgueil region.

The countryside is beautiful, but the handsome towns and cities here also hold their allure. Visit Amboise, once home of the French royal court, where you can see sights like Château du Clos Lucé where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life, or Blois with its Château Royal de Blois lavishly showcasing several of France's most renowned architectural periods, Gothic, Renaissance and Classical.

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Loire Valley Essentials

A couple look out at one of the Loire Valley's beautiful chateauxs

Planning Your Perfect Honeymoon in France

Ask soon-to-be honeymooners around the world to reveal their dream destinations for getting away together, and the chances are many would be in France. The settings for vacationing newlyweds do not get much more iconically romantic than a view of Paris, the 'city of love' from atop the Eiffel Tower, a sip of champagne in the region where the drink is exclusively produced or a stroll through ornamental gardens depicting four different sorts of love in the Loire Valley. From a very long and lovely list, here we select the best destinations in France for a honeymoon and what to do in each.

Top Cultural Experiences in France

Many travelers choose France specifically for its unique and diverse culture. Explore Paris for its food, literature, and cabaret, visit Normandy for its art (including Claude Monet's gardens), and escape to the Loire Valley for chateaus, palaces, castles, and more. When ready, head to the south and peruse the unique cuisine and culture of the French Riviera and Provence, plus romantic hilltop villages and medieval riverside hamlets.

Best Things to Do in the Loire Valley

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.

The 5 Best Boutique Hotels in the Loire Valley

Why just tour a chateau when you can stay in one? Get up close experience with the historical luxury and design of the Loire Valley with a stay in a remodeled chateau, either in the city center of Amboise or a secluded riverside park in Blois.

Top Active Experiences in France

France is an active traveler's dream, with sandy beaches in the north, the towering Alps in the southeast, several river valleys across its heartland, and a rocky southern coastline dotted with inlets, caves, and coves. You can easily spend your time cycling through vineyards and from one chateau to another, riding horses in the surf, kayaking the famous Calanques, and hiking in the mountains. Or, if you're more of a city person, add a bike tour or vineyard stroll to your exploration of hubs like Paris.

Loire Valley Itineraries

Loire Valley Château Tour - 5 Days

This relaxing 5-day jaunt focuses on the Loire Valley, a fertile region south of Paris dotted with hundreds of opulent châteaux (many that are UNESCO-listed) that once belonged to kings, queens, dukes, and influential artists. Enjoy a series of full-day private tours where you'll explore the area's best estates, gardens, game reserves, vineyards, and charming towns, especially Amboise—your home base for the trip.

The majestic Loire Valley château of Chenonceau

Paris & the Loire Valley - 8 Days

City and countryside combine on this relaxed 8-day journey from Paris to the Loire Valley. Starting in the French capital, you'll take a glittering dinner cruise down the Seine and sample local cheeses in Le Marais before catching a train east into the heart of the Loire Valley. Explore the medieval city of Tours, then settle into the riverside town of Amboise—the perfect base as you tour the grand châteaus and world-class wineries of this spectacular French region.

Local Flavors of France: Paris & Loire Valley - 8 Days

Ignite your senses—and taste buds—with this delicious tour of Paris and the picturesque Loire Valley, home to countless castles and gastronomic delights. Discover iconic Parisian highlights and delve into local flavor with wine tasting, a cooking class, and more. After, board a train through the magnificent French countryside to explore the Loire Valley's castles and vineyards and sail through the sky on an unforgettable hot-air balloon ride.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris & the Loire Valley - 5 Days

If you're short on time and want to see Paris and western France, this five-day road trip is the perfect getaway. Start in the City of Lights to haggle with market vendors and view art at the Louvre, then hit the road for the Loire Valley to the south-west. Here, each château is more magnificent than the last, and an endless variety of French wines are waiting for you to taste them.

Snap a fun photo with views of the Eiffel Tower from the Seine

Family Fun in Paris & the Loire Valley -7 Days

This fun itinerary will take you through many of the most iconic highlights of French culture, from the beauty of Paris to the stately elegance of the Loire Valley châteaux. Sample some of the country's finest produce and cuisine along the way. If your family loves history, culture, and fine foods—with a bit of plain old fun at Disneyland thrown into the mix—then this is the trip for you.

Paris & Tours: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting both Paris and Tours spend about 9 to 11 days in France, which usually includes some time in Bordeaux as well. If you're only headed to Paris and Tours, you can enjoy a comfortably-paced trip in six to nine days. For the best itineraries, including Paris and Tours, keep reading below.

Stroll the Alexandre III Bridge in Paris at sunset

Paris & Amboise: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most people visiting both Paris and Amboise spend about 9 to 12 days in France, which usually includes some time in Bayeux as well. For travelers wanting to visit Paris and Amboise exclusively, plan eight to nine days for a well-paced trip. Even travelers with limited time can see the highlights in as few as five to seven days. Read on for the best itineraries, including Paris, Amboise, and beyond.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris & the Loire Valley - 6 Days

If you've got six days and want to explore Paris and the Loire Valley, consider this short road trip. Start in the capital city, where you'll eat your fill of pastries, visit the Louvre, and learn about the city's history. Spend the second half of the trip in the Loire Valley, where magnificent castles dot the countryside, and the stories flow like French wine.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris, Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 9 Days

Paris, the Loire Valley, and Bordeaux—when it comes to French history and wine, what more do you need? This nine-day road trip includes this and more: from world-famous art in Paris and the famed castles of Tours to the unparalleled Bordeaux wine and fresh-caught Arcachon oysters. Dive into the French lifestyle as you enjoy fresh seafood in a typical brasserie and haggle with burly vendors at an 18th-century market.

Sunset on Chambord castle in Loire Valley

Highlights of France in Paris, Bordeaux & the Loire Valley - 9 Days

Experience three of the major regions of France with this trip through Bordeaux, the Loire Valley, and Paris. Start off shopping in the morning markets and sipping wine in historic vineyards, continue to tours of Renaissance-era castles and classic châteaux, and end your trip amid the city streets and cultural institutions of the City of Lights.

Paris, Bordeaux & the Loire Valley - 10 Days

Spend 10 memorable days celebrating the splendor of French wine, history, and gastronomy. Zip around France by train, stopping to marvel at Bordeaux's neoclassical architecture and taste the vintages at world-class vineyards. Next is the Loire Valley and its array of medieval castles dotting the countryside, followed by a showstopping tour of Paris, where highlights like Notre Dame and the Louvre await.

Spend two leisurely days driving around the Brittany region

Normandy, Brittany & the Loire Valley - 14 Days

This epic trip loops around three beloved regions in France with a nice mix of free time and guided tours. Start in Normandy to visit historical sites—spanning 900 years—between Bayeux and Omaha Beach. Next is Brittany, where you'll have free time (and a car) to explore the wild, rugged coastline at your own pace. Then experience UNESCO-listed villages and castles in the Loire Valley before finishing with two days in Paris.

Paris, Bordeaux & the Loire Valley - 7 Days

Traveling by train, this weeklong French adventure covers three destinations with a focus on history, architecture, food, and wine. Start in Bordeaux to experience the city's UNESCO-listed streets and world-renowned vineyards. Then head to Amboise for stunning castles and gardens surrounded by bucolic landscapes. Finish with two nights in Paris and let local experts show you the quintessential attractions.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris, Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 10 Days

If driving from Paris through western France for 10 days sounds like a dream come true, this itinerary is for you. Start in Paris, where art at the Louvre, flaky croissants, and a day trip to Versailles will capture your imagination and taste buds. Continue to the Loire Valley to see the famed castles and see where da Vinci lived, then end in Bordeaux for world-famous oysters and wine.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris, Normandy, & the Loire Valley - 7 Days

If you have a week and want to explore western France, this quick road trip is perfect. Begin your journey in Paris, where you'll spend equal amounts of time exploring the city's history and savoring pastries. Continue to Normandy to visit the preserved city of Bayeux and see D-Day sites. End the trip in the Loire Valley to discover its famed castles and châteaus.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 10 Days

There are enough French cheeses that you could eat a different one every day for a year. This itinerary only takes you as far as 10 days, so you'll have to eat a little faster than that. Start by consulting a cheesemaker in Le Marais, then ascend the Eiffel Tower to see Paris from the sky. You'll then head to the castles of the Loire Valley, followed by three nights in Bordeaux to sample vintages dating back centuries.

The Loire Valley's Châteaus de Chenonceau

Paris, the Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 7 Days

Fairytale French landscapes beckon on this romantic, week-long itinerary. Start in Paris with a twilight dinner cruise down the Seine, then head to the storied Loire Valley. Here in the heart of France, you'll explore postcard-perfect medieval villages, lush vineyards, and stately châteaus. Continue south to elegant Bordeaux to sample the rich local gastronomy and visit the world-famous vineyards of the Haute-Gironde.

Paris, Bordeaux & Tours: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, nine to 11 days is the perfect amount of time for a France trip with stops in Paris, Bordeaux, and Tours. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in four to eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Amboise, Bayeux, or Toulouse. See more ideas for Paris, Bordeaux, and Tours itineraries below.

Paris, Bordeaux & Amboise: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 9 to 10 days is the perfect amount of time for a France trip with stops in Paris, Bordeaux, and Amboise. It's also possible to hit the highlights in a week or eight days if you don't mind a fast-paced journey. Travelers with more time can enjoy extra sights and activities at each stop or explore more of the country—some popular itinerary extensions include Tours, Bayeux, or La Rochelle. Keep reading for more inspiring Paris, Bordeaux, and Amboise itineraries.

There'll be plenty of wine to taste in the vineyards of the Loire Valley

Luxury France for Wine Lovers: Loire Valley, Bordeaux & Dordogne - 10 Days

Renaissance castles, medieval villages, and the exceptional wines of Bordeaux and the Loire await on this 10-day trip to France. Your vacation begins with a sunset hot-air balloon flight and a three-night stay in a luxury 17th-century manor house, perfectly placed for vineyard trips and the châteaux of the Loire. The 5-star theme continues with private transfers to Bordeaux and Sarlat to visit Saint-Émilion's renowned vineyards, a truffle hunt in the Dordogne, and iconic Arcachon Bay oysters.

Paris, Bayeux & Amboise: Best Itinerary Ideas

Nine to 12 days is a great length for a France trip with stops in Paris, Bayeux, and Amboise. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in a week or eight days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. Or, extend your trip and explore more of the country—some of the best-loved trip extensions include Saint-Malo and Tours. Get inspired with kimkim's Paris, Bayeux, and Amboise trip ideas below.

Water Mill and Aure River in Bayeux, France

Paris, Bayeux & Tours: Best Itinerary Ideas

Most travelers will find that 8 to 10 days is perfect for a well-paced France trip with stops in Paris, Bayeux, and Tours. Travelers with less time can hit the route's highlights in six or seven days, which makes for a fast-paced journey. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region like Bordeaux or Saint-Malo. Keep reading for more inspiring Paris, Bayeux, and Tours itineraries.

The stunning stained glass of Sainte-Chapelle within Paris' Île de la Cité

Western France Getaway: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley & More - 14 Days

If you dream of spending two weeks exploring history and cuisine in western France, this itinerary is for you. Visit the Louvre and Versailles and learn to bake bread the authentic French way. Continue to Normandy and Brittany on the coast to explore medieval abbeys and sample fresh-caught seafood. Wrap things up in the Loire Valley, where resplendent Châteaux and endless vineyards await.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris, Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 11 Days

Eleven days driving through the pretty countryside of western France—what could be better? Start your trip in Paris—the land of espresso, world-famous art, and the gilded halls of Versailles. Hit the road for the Loire Valley, where 300+ castles, each one lovelier than the last, await exploration. End with three days in Bordeaux for a visit to the market and tasting of Arcachon's oysters.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley & More - 11 Days

From the Opéra Garnier in Paris to the quiet countryside of the Loire Valley, this luxurious 11-day itinerary covers the highlights—and much more. Walk through the gilded halls of Versailles, explore the fishing villages and beaches of the Atlantic Coast, and visit Mont-Saint-Michel: the abbey on an island. End the trip with wine tasting in the Loire Valley and see where Da Vinci spent his final years.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 11 Days

France is the world's second-largest exporter of wine, but you can sample the bottles they keep for themselves on this 11-day itinerary. Start off in Paris, strolling the Palais Royal and covered markets, before you travel to the Loire Valley to relax under the vines where da Vinci spent the last years of his life. Then finish your trip in Bordeaux to compare the wines of the left and right river banks, just to make sure you've tried them all.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris, Normandy & the Loire Valley - 8 Days

Eight days is enough time to see the highlights of western France at a leisurely pace—and this road trip does just that. Spend three days in Paris, exploring the city's history and secrets—both at street level and underground. Continue west to the Atlantic coast for a vacation on Normandy's seaside, then head to Loire Valley, where 300-plus castles line the peaceful country roads.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, & More - 15 Days

Spend fifteen days exploring Paris and the western regions on this luxurious itinerary. Start in the City of Lights, where you'll stroll the Champs de Mars under the twinkle of the Eiffel Tower and eat your weight in croissants. Head to the coast for apple cider tours, fresh seafood, and the famed Normandy beaches. End the trip in the Loire Valley to go wine tasting and see where Da Vinci spent his last years.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, & Arcachon - 15 Days

Learn how to say important phrases like, "no more, thank you, I'm stuffed," on this 15-day itinerary through the epicurean delights of western France. Whether you're sampling cheese and pastries in Paris, the mushrooms and wines of the Loire Valley, cannelé pastries and even more wine in Bordeaux, or oysters in Arcachon, there's a new gastronomical adventure around every corner.

Road Trip through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 12 Days

View art in Paris, enjoy beaches in Normandy, and taste oysters in Bordeaux on this twelve-day road trip through western France. Spend four days in the City of Lights (with a day trip to see Versailles), then head to the Atlantic Coast for seafood and WWII history. End in Bordeaux, where the wine flows freely and the food is world-class.

Pont des Arts with Palais Royal and Musee D'orsay

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 12 Days

This 12-day luxury itinerary through three of France's regions is a feast for both your eyes and your stomach. From the museums and markets of Paris to the castles and vineyards of the Loire Valley there's always a new sensory delight to be found. End in your tip in Bordeaux, where historic villages, unparalleled hospitality, and renowned cuisine and wines await your exploration.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, & More - 12 Days

Twelve days enjoying Parisian architecture, Normandy seafood, and Loire Valley wine—what could be sweeter? See the Eiffel Tower and learn to bake authentic French baguettes in the capital, then head to the coast for medieval ruins, fresh mussels, and World War II history. Wrap the trip up in the Loire Valley, where stately chateaus line the quiet country lanes and vineyards stretch out of sight.

See the Château de Chambord and other Loire Valley treasures on this 12-day itinerary

Tour the Palaces & Châteaux of Paris & the Loire Valley - 12 Days

From the gilded halls of Versailles to the fairy-tale castles of the Loire Valley, this 12-day tour features the opulent interiors and intricate gardens of some of France's most famous châteaux. Begin in Paris with day trips to Chantilly and Compiegne, then hop a train to Amboise to e-bike around the countryside and get lost in the hedge maze of Château de Villandry. More medieval fortresses and Renaissance châteaux await in Saumur and Angers before a train whisks you back to Paris for departure.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, & Arcachon - 16 Days

Spend 16 splendid days savoring the western regions of France. Meet with a master cheesemaker in Le Marais, bake amidst Les Batignolles, and recline in the vineyards of the Loire Valley. You'll traverse the "Route des Chateaux” in the Médoc, then cruise down the Gironde estuary to sample all the riversides of the Bordeaux region before a relaxing end to your trip in the seaside resort town of Arcachon.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, & More - 16 Days

From the Paris Opera to the beaches of Brittany, explore Western France in luxury on this 16-day itinerary. Learn to bake bread the French way and stroll through Versaille's resplendent halls, then head to the coast to explore the fishing villages and beaches of the Atlantic Coast. Enjoy fresh seafood in a typical brasserie in Saint-Malo, then end the trip in the Loire valley, where fairytale castles and vineyards abound.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 13 Days

If spending thirteen days driving from Paris through Normandy to Bordeaux sounds like your perfect getaway, this trip is for you. Get to know the sweet side of France on a pastry tour in Paris, breathe in the fresh ocean air in Normandy, and view castles (including da Vinci’s former residence) in the Loire Valley. End in Bordeaux to sample the best of France’s wine and cuisine.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, & Loire Valley - 9 Days

From the gilded halls of Versailles to the resplendent Châteaus of the Loire Valley, explore Western France in all its luxury on this 9-day getaway. Stroll the Champs de Mars under the twinkle of the Eiffel Tower, explore the fishing villages and beaches of the Atlantic Coast, and visit Mont-Saint-Michel: the abbey on an island. End the trip with a tour of the resplendent Châteaus de Chambord and Chenonceau.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 9 Days

A French lunch break can be up to two hours long, but you get nine full days to sample the country's food and wine on this itinerary. Visit the artsy alleys and markets of Le Marais and Montmartre, then travel to the Loire Valley and Bordeaux to tour the vineyards that made French wine famous.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, & Arcachon - 13 Days

See spots you've only heard referenced by your favorite sommeliers on this 13-day journey. Whether you're tasting wine in a Parisian covered passageway, lined with mosaic-tiled floors and glass ceilings, amidst the vines of centuries-old estates along sedate rivers, or overlooking villas on the Atlantic coast, you'll soon realize that the best pairing for any glass of wine is a good view.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, & More - 13 Days

Spend thirteen lucky days luxuriating in some of France's finest regions, from Paris to the Loire Valley. Kick things off in the City of Lights, where you'll explore history and take a day trip to Versailles. From there, head to Normandy on the coast, where small fishing villages and D-Day sites dot the landscape. End in the Loire Valley, where you'll relax in peaceful vineyards and tour elegant chateaus.

Aerial view of Saint Malo, Britanny, France

Paris, Bayeux, Saint-Malo & Amboise: Best Itinerary Ideas

For most travelers, 11 to 14 days is the perfect amount of time for a France trip with stops in Paris, Bayeux, Saint-Malo, and Amboise. If you don't mind a fast-paced journey, you can see the highlights of this route in less time—as few as 7 to 10 days. With more time, you can enjoy extra activities at each stop or a few days in another region. Get inspired with the below Paris, Bayeux, Saint-Malo, and Amboise trip ideas.

Explore the 16th-century Château de Chambord at your own pace

Paris & Self-Drive Château & Wine Tour in the Loire Valley - 13 Days

In just under two weeks, discover some of France's most beautiful châteaus and delicious wines. Spend one night in Paris before catching a train to Niort to explore the historic Château du Coudray-Salbart and the canals of the serene Marais Poitevin wetland. Then, drive to Chinon to visit its royal fortress and indulge in wine tastings at local estates. Stop at Caves Ambacia for a wine tour on your way to Blois, where you'll visit renowned châteaus before returning to Paris to explore the city and its cuisine.

Spend a day castle-hopping in the Loire Valley

France Family Adventure - 14 Days

This exciting, yet easy-going itinerary is the perfect introduction to France—especially for groups and families (ages 10 and up). Over the course of two weeks, you'll spend quality time in Paris, the Loire Valley, Provence, and the French Riviera with a fun mix of educational tours led by local guides and free time to explore on your own.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 14 Days

Spend two weeks exploring the highlights of western France, from the City of Lights to the quiet villages of the Loire Valley. Sample pastries in Paris and head underground to see the catacombs, then hit the road for the beaches on the Normandy coast. End the trip in Bordeaux, where you'll haggle with vendors for fresh seafood at an 18th-century market.

France Family Vacation: Paris, Loire Valley, Provence & the French Riviera - 14 Days

This 14-day family tour of France starts in Paris, where you'll walk the city's historic streets, enjoy a tasting of delectable pastries and chocolates, and visit the delightful Monmarte neighborhood. Then, it's off to Amboise for castles, canoeing, and a visit to a working cheese farm! Explore the hidden coves of Calanques National Park, rent a bike at Château de Berne, and walk the promenade in Nice. End with a visit to the vibrant city of Marseille, with its open-air markets and historical sights.

Luxury Food and Wine Tour: Paris, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, & Arcachon - 14 Days

Food isn't the only indulgence western France has to offer on this two-week itinerary. Lounge in the gardens of the Palais Royal, once the personal residence for Cardinal Richelieu; see through the eyes of artists like Degas and da Vinci in Montmartre and Amboise, and stroll through cobblestone village streets and seaside boardwalks as you sample the best the area has to offer.

Luxury France for Wine Lovers: Paris, Loire Valley, Bordeaux & Dordogne - 14 Days

You don't need to decide between elegant Paris and the historic châteaux of the Loire Valley on this sumptuous two-week getaway that starts with a stylish stay in the capital before heading to the most renowned French wine regions. From the standout landmarks of Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower to the vineyards of Bordeaux and the gastronomic delights of Dordogne, you'll tick off all the highlights during a fortnight that's jam-packed with private tours for enophiles and culture connoisseurs.

Famous medieval castle Sully sur Loire at sunset

Paris, Normandy & the Loire Valley - 10 Days

This epic 10-day French sojourn kicks off in Paris with three days of culture and cuisine in the "City of Lights." Then, hit the road to the Normandy coast to visit the Mont-Saint-Michel tidal island, medieval Bayeux, and Omaha Beach. Next is the Loire Valley, where you'll explore the charming towns and gorgeous castles of this famous wine region before returning to Paris for one more Belle Époque adventure.

Luxury Getaway to Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, & More - 10 Days

Dive into French culture and settle into a quieter pace of life on this 10-day luxury trip to Western France. Start in Paris, where you'll learn history in the l’Ile de la Cité and take a day trip to the gilded halls of Versailles. Head west to tour D-Day sites in Normandy and explore Mont-Saint-Michel: the abbey on an island. Round out the trip with two days in the Loire Valley, famous for castles and wine alike.

You can bet that landmarks like the Eiffel Tower will be featured in the 2024 Summer Games

Olympic Adventure in Paris, Brittany & Bordeaux - 10 Days

Olympics 2024, here you come! Paris will be hosting this 3,000-year-old tradition, and you'll experience the pomp and circumstance over 10 event-filled days—plus enjoy adventures in other highlight regions. After experiencing the best of Paris, catch a train to the Loire Valley for vineyard tours, explore the historic villages of Brittany, and visit Bordeaux for bike tours and to indulge in fine food and wine.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, Bordeaux & More - 15 Days

Fifteen days is enough time to get off the beaten path in western France on this road trip from Paris to Bordeaux. Start in the capital city, where you'll visit the Louvre and enjoy afternoon walks along the Seine River. Head west along the Atlantic Coast to explore World War II history and explore small fishing villages and beaches, then continue south for countryside castles, Bordeaux wine, and the famed Arcachon oysters.

Honeymoon Romance in France: Paris, Lyon, Avignon, & the French Riviera - 15 Days

Fifteen days is enough time to dive deep into several of France's most popular regions (and understand why they're a favorite!) Start in Paris, where mornings of fresh-baked pastries and hot espressos meld seamlessly into evenings of red wine and charcuteries. See the Chateau Chambord, immerse yourself in Avignon's history, and end your trip on a sunny note—along the warm beaches of the French Riviera.

Western France Road Trip: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 16 Days

Spend sixteen days exploring everything western France has to offer, from the metropolitan culture of Paris to the peaceful countryside of Bordeaux. See art at the Louvre, take a day trip to the gilded halls of Versailles, and vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside. Visit Mont-Saint-Michel—the abbey on an island—before continuing south to the land of resplendent châteaus and free-flowing wine.

France Scenic Self-Drive Getaway: Castles, Forts & Vineyards - 21 Days

Discover all the things that fairy tales are made of on this comprehensive, three-week tour of France. Start in Normandy, where you'll explore the rugged coastline and massive fortresses. Head to the Loire Valley for lavish châteaux, gardens, and vineyards, then turn south into the Dordogne and discover its unusual natural scenery. Continue to Lyon and immerse yourself in its "foodie" culture before embarking on a wine-tasting extravaganza between Châteauneuf and Burgundy.

Honeymoon Romance in France: Paris, Amboise, Lyon, Avignon, & the French Riviera - 16 Days

Get in touch with your romantic side on this sweet sixteen-day honeymoon itinerary in France. Check out the Eiffel Tower and other landmarks in Paris, see storybook villages and chateaus in the Loire Valley and explore Roman ruins in Avignon. Don't forget to make time for farmer's markets, pastries, and wine-tasting: after all, what is France without food?

See France's best vineyards and try delicious wines on this tour

Self-Drive Journey Through Burgundy, the Loire Valley & Brittany - 11 Days

This 11-day French road trip charts a path from Burgundy to the Brittany coast, winding through the best of the Loire Valley's grand châteaux and historic wineries along the way. Start in Beaune to sample Beaujolais wines and bike across Burgundy vineyards, then follow the Loire west through Amboise, Saumur, and Nantes. Turn north to feast on crêpes and cider in the walled city of Saint-Malo, and end in the tiny hamlet of Giverny, exploring the world of famed Impressionist artist Claude Monet.

Venture into the Loire Valley and explore historic treasures like the Château de Chenonceau

Grand Tour Through Historic France: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley & Bordeaux - 16 Days

This 16-day tour takes you through France's past and present, showcasing its history, culture, and heritage. Start in Paris, where you'll glide down the Seine on an evening cruise and walk the paths of kings in Versaille. Then, head to the Normandy region for a visit to the ethereal Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey and an e-bike tour of D-Day beaches. See the châteaux and wineries of the Loire Valley, learn all about wine at Bordeaux's Cité du Vin museum, and end back in Paris for an evening of fine French gastronomy.

Richelieu quay of Garonne river in Bordeaux

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley, & Bordeaux - 17 Days

From the streetside cafes of Paris to the fresh seafood markets of Normandy, this seventeen-day road trip through western France has it all. Spend a few days in the capital viewing art and eating your weight in pastries, then head west along the coast to vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside. Wrap the trip up in the Loire Valley and Bordeaux, famous for their countryside castles, 18th-century farmer's markets, and the freshest oysters in France.

Honeymoon Romance in France: Paris, Amboise, Lyon, Avignon, & the French Riviera - 17 Days

This seventeen-day honeymoon itinerary has something for every couple (or non-couples!) Stop by Aix en Provence for coffee and people watching on the plaza, experience the magic of Paris at night, and wonder at the splendor of the Versailles estate. Explore the storybook towns of the Loire Valley and go wine tasting in the Beaujolais wine region before spending time in Cannes and Monaco.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Loire Valley, Bordeaux, & More - 18 Days

If spending eighteen days driving from France's capital down the western Atlantic Coast sounds like the perfect getaway, this itinerary is for you. Start in Paris for flaky croissants and strong espresso, then hit the road for the coast. Vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside as you explore medieval and WWII history, then continue to the Loire Valley to see resplendent châteaus. End in Bordeaux, where the wine and oysters are unparalleled.

Honeymoon Romance in France: Paris, Amboise, Lyon, Avignon, & the French Riviera - 18 Days

With eighteen full days in the country, you'll get to experience the full variety of French cultures on this honeymoon trip. Learn about Parisian history in the heart of the city, search through the Louvre for hidden treasures, and explore the storybook towns of the Loire Valley. Stroll through historic Lyon, France’s third-most populous city, before stopping by Aix en Provence for coffee and people watching on the plaza.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Cognac, Bordeaux, & More - 19 Days

Drive along the Atlantic Coast on this nineteen-day road trip through western France. Start in Paris to see world-famous galleries at the Louvre and walk along the Seine River, then head west to explore the fishing villages and beaches of the Atlantic Coast. Visit Mont-Saint-Michel, the abbey on an island, and enjoy fresh seafood in a typical brasserie. End the trip in Bordeaux to sample the best of France’s wine and cuisine.

Honeymoon Romance in France: Paris, Amboise, Lyon, Avignon, & the French Riviera - 19 Days

Leave your worries behind on this romantic 19-day honeymoon getaway to France. Experience the magic of Paris at night, bargain with vendors for regional specialties at farmer’s markets, and tour the fairytale Châteaus de Chambord & Chenonceau. Explore Roman ruins in Avignon and see the hilltop villages of the Luberon, before ending the trip in Cannes and Monaco.

Road Trip Through Western France: Paris, Normandy, Brittany, Cognac, Bordeaux, & More - 20 Days

Vacation like the French on the Normandy seaside on this 20-day road trip through western France. You'll walk through the gilded halls of Versailles, immerse yourself in history on the D-Day beaches, and sample the best of France’s wine and cuisine in Bordeaux. For a taste of authentic western France life, haggle with vendors for your lunch at an 18th-century market, then head to the beach to enjoy wine and seafood on the water.

Honeymoon Romance in France: Paris, Amboise, Lyon, Avignon, & the French Riviera - 20 Days

With twenty full days to experience everything France has to offer, you're bound to come away with a bit more romance in your heart. On this honeymoon itinerary, you'll do everything from exploring Paris through pastries to bargaining with vendors for regional specialties at farmer’s markets. Stroll through historic Lyon, France’s third-most populous city, visit the hilltop villages of the Luberon, and stop by Aix en Provence for coffee and people watching on the plaza.

The self-drive portion of your adventure takes you from Bayeux in Normandy to the Loire Valley and historic Amboise

France from North to South: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley & French Riviera - 14 Days

Get a taste of the best of France over two special weeks as you travel from top to toe, starting and ending in Paris. Explore the sights of the capital and take a day trip to the Champagne region, then venture north to Normandy to explore historic towns like Bayeux and connect with D-Day stories. From here, you'll rent a car and travel across the Loire Valley, visiting fairy-tale châteaux before taking the train to Aix-en-Provence and Nice, where Provençal and Riviera adventures await.

Explore France's Western Route- 21 Days

Take the back roads of western France to discover a splendor of highlights and hidden gems on this three-week adventure. Start in Paris, where you'll climb the Eiffel Tower and visit Versailles. Head to the northern coasts and see the most beautiful spots of Brittany and Normandy. Go south to the Loire Valley to live the fairy tale life surrounded by castles and vineyards, and activate your taste buds as you savor cognac and wine amid the country's most famous vineyards and medieval villages.

Other popular travel destinations in France
Paris · Provence · French Riviera · Nice · Aix-en-Provence · Normandy · Bordeaux · Rhône Valley · Lyon · Marseille · Amboise · Bayeux · French Alps · Avignon · Saint-Malo · Brittany · Annecy · Cannes · Tours · Dordogne · Verdon Gorge · Sarlat · Dijon · Burgundy · Champagne · Reims · Saint-Rémy-de-Provence · Alsace · Strasbourg · Colmar · Mont Blanc Region · Chamonix · Honfleur · Mont-Saint-Michel · Basque Country · Corsica · Saint-Louis

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