France 21 Day Itinerary: A Grand Tour from Paris to Bordeaux
Embark on a three-week adventure across France, starting with the iconic sights of Paris, journeying through the gastronomic heart of Lyon, exploring the historic charm of Avignon and the Riviera allure of Nice, and concluding in the renowned wine region of Bordeaux. This itinerary combines city exploration with scenic bus and train travel, offering a diverse experience of French culture and landscapes.
- 1Paris
- 2Lyon
- 3Avignon
- 4Nice
- 5Bordeaux
Day 1: Arrive in Paris
Begin your French journey in the capital. After arriving and settling into your accommodation, enjoy an evening stroll to soak in the Parisian atmosphere.
Highlights
- Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Paris, Quai de Bercy (Bercy Seine) bus station.
- Consider Paris Orly Airport (ORY) or Paris Beauvais-Tillé Airport (BVA) as alternatives, with various transport options to the city centre.
- Take an evening walk around the iconic Eiffel Tower and along the Seine River.
Day 2: Explore Parisian Icons
Dedicate your first full day to some of Paris's most famous landmarks, from world-class art to grand avenues.
Highlights
- Discover masterpieces at the Louvre Museum, home to vast collections spanning centuries.
- Stroll through the elegant Tuileries Garden, connecting the Louvre to the Champs-Élysées.
- Walk along the grand Champs-Élysées, leading to the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
Day 3: Historic Paris and Bohemian Montmartre
Delve into Paris's rich history on Île de la Cité before ascending to the artistic heights of Montmartre.
Highlights
- Visit the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore the charming Île de la Cité.
- Wander through the artistic district of Montmartre, known for its stairways and village lanes.
- Admire the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica, offering panoramic views over the city.
Day 4: Day Trip to Versailles
Take a day trip from Paris to experience the opulent Palace of Versailles and its magnificent gardens.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Paris, Gare Montparnasse to Versailles, Gare de Versailles Château - Rive Gauche. The earliest outbound bus departs at 07:25.
- Explore the grandeur of the Château de Versailles, the iconic former royal residence.
- Wander through the vast and formal Jardins du Château de Versailles, famous for their fountains and perspectives. The latest return bus from Versailles departs at 19:30.
Day 5: Impressionist Art and Seine River Views
Immerse yourself in Impressionist art and enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Seine, experiencing Paris from a different perspective.
Highlights
- Admire masterpieces by Monet and Van Gogh at the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a former railway station.
- Explore the vibrant Latin Quarter, known for its historic streets and intellectual atmosphere.
- Enjoy a memorable Bateaux Mouches cruise on the Seine River, offering iconic city views.
Day 6: Travel to Lyon
Journey south to Lyon, France's gastronomic capital. Settle in and begin your exploration with the charming Old Town.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Paris, Quai de Bercy (Bercy Seine) to Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache. The journey takes approximately 4 hours 55 minutes.
- Operators like BlaBlaCar Bus, FlixBus, Itabus, Alsa, BlaBlaCar, and Internorte offer services on this route, with tickets starting from €9.
- Spend the evening exploring Vieux Lyon, a Renaissance quarter with cobbled lanes and traboules.
Day 7: Lyon's Hilltop Views and City Centre
Discover Lyon's spiritual heart and ancient Roman heritage, then explore the elegant Presqu'île district.
Highlights
- Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière for grand mosaics and panoramic city views.
- Explore the ancient Théâtres Romains de Fourvière, preserving Lyon's Roman origins.
- Stroll through the Presqu'île, the central peninsula between the Rhône and Saône rivers, filled with elegant streets and squares.
Day 8: Day Trip to Annecy
Escape to the picturesque town of Annecy, known for its stunning lake and charming canals.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Lyon, Avenue Tony Garnier (Gare routière de Lyon Gerland) to Annecy, Gare Routière. The earliest outbound bus departs at 03:50, with tickets starting from €10.
- Explore Annecy's atmospheric Vieille Ville (Old Town) with its canals and pastel houses, and visit the iconic Palais de l'Isle.
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of Lake Annecy and the Jardins de l'Europe. Return to Lyon by train from Annecy to Lyon, with the latest return train departing at 23:01.
Day 9: Art, Silk History, and Lyonnaise Cuisine
Immerse yourself in Lyon's art scene, explore its historic silk-worker district, and indulge in its renowned culinary delights.
Highlights
- Discover the extensive collections at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, a major fine arts museum.
- Explore La Croix-Rousse, the historic silk-workers’ hill district, known for its unique character.
- Savour traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, such as Quenelles De Brochet or Salade Lyonnaise, at a local bouchon.
Day 10: Travel to Avignon
Journey to Avignon, the historic city of popes. Settle in and immediately explore its most iconic landmarks.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Lyon, Gare Routière de Perrache to Le Pontet, Avignon Gare de Bus (Ave. Charles de Gaulle). The journey takes approximately 2 hours 24 minutes.
- Operators like FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus, Alsa, and SNCF | Autocar offer services on this route, with tickets starting from €11.
- Visit the imposing Palais des Papes, a Gothic papal palace and UNESCO World Heritage site, and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet.
Day 11: Avignon's Panoramic Views and Art
Enjoy breathtaking views over Avignon, explore its lively central square, and delve into its rich artistic heritage.
Highlights
- Ascend to Rocher des Doms, a landscaped hilltop garden offering panoramic views over the Rhône and bridge.
- Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Place de l'Horloge, an elegant central square ideal for people-watching.
- Discover medieval sculptures and frescoes at the Musée du Petit Palais, housed in a striking historic setting.
Day 12: Day Trip to Arles
Take a day trip to Arles, a city steeped in Roman history and artistic inspiration.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Avignon Centre to Arles. The earliest outbound train departs at 00:15, with tickets starting from €10.
- Explore the impressive Arènes d'Arles, a 1st-century Roman amphitheatre still used for events.
- Visit the ancient Théâtre Antique d'Arles and wander through the city's historic centre. The latest return train from Arles departs at 23:53.
Day 13: Travel to Nice
Head to the French Riviera and the vibrant city of Nice. After settling in, enjoy an evening stroll along its famous promenade.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Le Pontet, Avignon Gare de Bus (Ave. Charles de Gaulle) to Nice, Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur (Gare routière - Terminal 1). The journey takes approximately 3 hours 42 minutes.
- Operators like Alsa, BlaBlaCar, BlaBlaCar Bus, and FlixBus offer services on this route, with tickets starting from €15.
- Enjoy an evening stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, experiencing the Riviera atmosphere.
Day 14: Old Town Charm and Panoramic Vistas in Nice
Explore the lively maze of Nice's Old Town, climb for sweeping sea views, and discover the city's elegant main square.
Highlights
- Wander through Vieux Nice, the old town's narrow streets, Baroque churches, and colourful façades.
- Climb Colline du Château for sweeping sea views and to see the hilltop ruins of Nice's former citadel.
- Visit Place Masséna, the main square linking the old town and modern centre, known for its elegant arcades.
Day 15: Day Trip to Monaco
Experience the glamour of Monaco on a day trip, visiting its royal palace, famous casino, and bustling port.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Nice to Monaco - Monte-Carlo. The earliest outbound bus departs at 13:37, with tickets starting from €5.
- Visit the Prince's Palace of Monaco, the official residence of the sovereign prince.
- Explore the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo and stroll around Port Hercule, admiring the yachts. The latest return bus from Monaco departs at 23:30.
Day 16: Artistic Inspiration and Coastal Relaxation in Nice
Immerse yourself in the art of renowned masters and unwind on Nice's beautiful beaches.
Highlights
- Discover the works of Henri Matisse at the Musée Matisse, set in a Genoese villa.
- Visit the Musée National Marc Chagall, housing major biblical works by the artist.
- Relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun on one of Nice's beautiful beaches.
Day 17: Travel to Bordeaux
Embark on a long travel day to Bordeaux, the heart of France's famous wine region. Settle in and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Nice, Aéroport Nice Côte d'Azur (Gare routière - Terminal 1) to Bordeaux, Rue des Terres de Bordes. The journey takes approximately 10 hours 59 minutes.
- Operators like BlaBlaCar Bus, FlixBus, BlaBlaCar, and Lignes d'Azur offer services on this route, with tickets starting from €31.
- Arrive in Bordeaux and enjoy a quiet evening after your journey.
Day 18: Bordeaux's Grandeur and Historic Centre
Explore Bordeaux's elegant 18th-century squares, its iconic reflecting pool, and its impressive Gothic cathedral.
Highlights
- Visit Place de la Bourse, a grand 18th-century square central to Bordeaux's historic core.
- Experience the iconic Miroir d'eau, a reflecting pool offering striking photo opportunities.
- Explore Cathédrale Saint-André, a Gothic cathedral with a monumental nave and rich history.
Day 19: Day Trip to Arcachon
Take a day trip to Arcachon, a charming coastal town known for its oyster farming and unique architecture.
Highlights
- Travel by bus from Bordeaux to Arcachon. The earliest outbound bus departs at 06:04, with tickets starting from €14.
- Visit Jetée Thiers, an iconic pier offering classic Arcachon views, and explore the charming Ville d'Hiver with its ornate villas.
- Savour fresh Huîtres d'Arcachon, a regional staple, at a local eatery. Return to Bordeaux by train from Arcachon to Bordeaux, with the latest return train departing at 23:03.
Day 20: Wine Culture and Fine Art in Bordeaux
Delve into Bordeaux's world-renowned wine culture and explore its leading art museum, perhaps enjoying a local wine tasting.
Highlights
- Immerse yourself in wine history and culture at La Cité du Vin, an interactive museum with tastings.
- Discover European paintings and sculptures at the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux.
- Consider a wine tasting experience in the region to fully appreciate Bordeaux's viticultural heritage.
Day 21: Depart from Bordeaux
Enjoy a final morning in Bordeaux for last-minute souvenir shopping or a leisurely breakfast before your departure.
Highlights
- Depart from Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport (BOD) for your international flight.
- Alternatively, depart from Gare de Bordeaux Saint-Jean, the main train station, which is well-connected to the city centre by Tram Lines C and D.
- Consider Bergerac Dordogne Périgord Airport (EGC), Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS), or Biarritz Pays Basque Airport (BIQ) as alternative departure points, accessible by various transport options.
