France by Train: A 7-Day Itinerary from Paris to Provence
Embark on a 7-day train journey through France, starting with the iconic sights of Paris, continuing to the gastronomic delights of Lyon, and concluding amidst the papal history and Provençal charm of Avignon, with a coastal day trip to Cassis.
- 1Paris
- 2Lyon
- 3Avignon
Day 1: Arrive in Paris
Begin your French adventure in the capital, arriving at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) and transferring to the city centre via RER B train to Gare du Nord. Spend your afternoon exploring some of Paris's most famous landmarks.
Highlights
- Marvel at the iconic Eiffel Tower, offering sweeping city views and a quintessential Parisian experience.
- Stroll along the grand Champs-Élysées, linking Place de la Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe.
Day 2: Explore Parisian Art and Culture
Dedicate a full day to immersing yourself in Paris's rich artistic heritage and historic neighbourhoods, from world-class museums to charming hilltop districts.
Highlights
- Discover masterpieces at the Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and vast collections spanning centuries.
- Visit the Musée d'Orsay, housed in a magnificent former railway station, to admire Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works.
- Wander through Montmartre, a historic hilltop district known for its artistic past, winding lanes, and panoramic city views.
Day 3: Paris to Lyon by Train
Journey by train from Paris to Lyon, a trip that takes as little as 1 hour 51 minutes. Upon arrival, begin exploring Lyon's renowned culinary scene and the historic Old Town.
Highlights
- Take a high-speed train from Paris Gare de Lyon to Lyon Part Dieu, with tickets starting from €24.
- Explore Vieux Lyon, the Renaissance quarter, with its cobbled lanes, hidden passageways (traboules), and historic courtyards.
- Savour traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, such as Quenelles de Brochet (pike dumplings) or Salade Lyonnaise, at a local bouchon.
Day 4: Discover Lyon's Roman Heritage and Silk History
Uncover Lyon's ancient Roman roots and its unique silk-worker heritage, enjoying stunning city panoramas along the way.
Highlights
- Visit the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a hilltop basilica offering grand mosaics and panoramic views over the city.
- Explore the Théâtres Romains de Fourvière, preserving Lyon’s ancient origins with its Roman amphitheatre and odeon.
- Wander through La Croix-Rousse, the historic silk-workers’ hill district, known for its stairways, murals, and distinctive local character.
Day 5: Lyon to Avignon by Train
Travel by train from Lyon to Avignon, a journey that can be as quick as 50 minutes. Settle into this charming Provençal city and delve into its significant papal history.
Highlights
- Board a high-speed train from Lyon Part Dieu to Avignon TGV, with tickets starting from €16.
- Explore the Palais des Papes, a Gothic papal palace and UNESCO World Heritage site, central to Avignon’s history.
- Walk across the Pont Saint-Bénézet, the famous medieval bridge celebrated in song, and enjoy views of the Rhône.
Day 6: Day Trip to Cassis
Take a scenic train journey from Avignon to the coastal town of Cassis, known for its stunning calanques and Mediterranean charm. The earliest outbound train departs at 06:02, and the latest return is at 22:20.
Highlights
- Travel by train from Avignon Centre to Cassis, with tickets starting from €4.
- Explore the picturesque Port de Cassis, lined with pastel-coloured buildings and fishing boats.
- Relax on Plage de la Grande Mer, a beautiful beach offering postcard views of the castle and headlands.
Day 7: Depart Avignon
Enjoy a final morning in Avignon before departing from Avignon TGV. For international flights, Marseille Provence Airport (MRS) is the recommended gateway, accessible by bus and train.
Highlights
- Visit the Rocher des Doms, a landscaped hilltop garden next to the cathedral, for excellent panoramic views.
- Explore the Musée du Petit Palais, housing a world-class collection of medieval sculptures and frescoes.
