Magnificent France: 14-Day Road Trip Adventure

Suggestion for the Day: 

• On day 5 of your road trip start your journey from Lyon early in the morning, heading south towards Avignon.  After about an hour, take a brief coffee break in the charming town of Vienne, enjoying a pastry at a local café and perhaps visiting the ancient Roman Temple of Augustus and Livia. Continue your drive to the town of Valence. Here, you can visit the beautiful Cathedral of Saint-Apollinaire and stroll through the lovely Jouvet Park. Following your visit, indulge in a leisurely lunch at a local bistro.
• After lunch, resume your journey to Avignon, arriving by mid-afternoon. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax or explore the historic streets of Avignon. In the late afternoon, visit the stunning Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe. Continue your exploration with a visit to the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, the iconic medieval bridge that partially spans the Rhône River.
• If time permits, enjoy a walk through the beautiful Rocher des Doms Park, offering panoramic views of the city and the river. In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring Provençal cuisine, which is known for its fresh, aromatic flavors.

Suggestion for the Day: Admire Charming Aix-en-Provence, Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, and on to Monaco

• Continue your road trip adventure, heading southeast towards Monaco. Enjoy the drive through Provence's beautiful countryside, passing by lavender fields and picturesque vineyards. Make a mid-morning stop in the charming town of Aix-en-Provence. Take a leisurely walk through its historic center, visiting the lively markets and perhaps the impressive Saint-Sauveur Cathedral. Grab a coffee and a pastry at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Continue your journey towards Monaco, enjoying the changing scenery as you get closer to the Mediterranean coast.
• For lunch, stop in the town of Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, known for its impressive basilica and quaint streets. Find a cozy bistro to enjoy a delicious Provençal meal, sampling local specialties. Resume your drive towards Monaco, arriving by mid-afternoon. Check into your hotel and take some time to relax or freshen up. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the highlights of Monaco. Begin with a visit to the Prince's Palace. Then, stroll through the old town, Le Rocher, and visit the Monaco Cathedral where Princess Grace is buried. Head to the Oceanographic Museum, perched on the cliff edge, offering fascinating exhibits and stunning views over the sea.
• Afterward, wander through the exotic gardens of Jardin Exotique, filled with rare plants and offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean. In the evening, immerse yourself in the glamour of Monte Carlo. Visit the renowned Casino de Monte-Carlo, even if just to admire its stunning architecture and luxurious interior. Choose a restaurant nearby for dinner, where you can savor exquisite French cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the marina, admiring the luxurious yachts and the glittering lights of Monaco before retiring for the night at your hotel.

Suggestion for the Day: Enjoy Beautiful French Riviera 

Begin your day in Monaco with a leisurely breakfast overlooking the Mediterranean, savoring the view as you prepare for your journey to Marseille. Depart Monaco, heading west towards the vibrant city of Marseille. You have several options for stops along the way. About 40 minutes into your drive, you stop in Nice. Spend some time exploring the Promenade des Anglais, strolling along the seaside boulevard, or visiting the bustling markets in the Old Town (Vieux Nice). Enjoy a coffee or a light snack at a café in the historic Place Masséna, soaking in the lively atmosphere. Another possible stop is in Cannes, renowned for its glamorous film festival and beautiful beaches. Walk along the Croisette, lined with luxury boutiques and upscale hotels, and perhaps take a quick dip in the Mediterranean. Another possible stop is in Saint-Tropez. Resume your drive towards Marseille, driving through the beautiful region of Provence.  Arrive in Marseille and check into your hotel. Begin your exploration of Marseille with a visit to the iconic Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde. Perched high above the city, the basilica offers breathtaking panoramic views of Marseille and the Mediterranean Sea. Take your time exploring the basilica and enjoying the view. Next, head down to the Vieux-Port (Old Port), the heart of Marseille. Stroll along the waterfront, watching the boats come and go, and perhaps visit the fish market to see the local catch of the day. Take a moment to admire the historic forts that guard the entrance to the port. As evening approaches, explore the vibrant district of Le Panier, the oldest neighborhood in Marseille. Wander through its narrow streets, lined with colorful buildings, art studios, and cafés. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor traditional Provençal cuisine, such as bouillabaisse, a rich seafood stew that Marseille is famous for.

Suggestion for the Day: 

• Start your day in Marseille with a delicious breakfast at your hotel, preparing for your journey west to the historic city of Carcassonne. The drive will take approximately three hours, offering beautiful views of the Provence and Languedoc regions. For a change of pace, make a stop in the picturesque town of Nîmes, about an hour and a half into your journey. Nîmes is renowned for its well-preserved Roman architecture. Visit the impressive Nîmes Arena, a Roman amphitheater still in use today, and the Maison Carrée, an ancient Roman temple. Take a short break to enjoy a coffee and a snack at a local café before continuing your journey. Resume your drive westward, enjoying the scenic countryside as you approach Carcassonne.
• Arrive in Carcassonne by early afternoon and check into your hotel. Begin your exploration with a visit to the iconic Cité de Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's best-preserved medieval fortresses. Spend the afternoon wandering through the narrow cobbled streets of the Cité, exploring the Château Comtal and the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus. Take your time to walk along the ancient ramparts, which offer breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the lower town of Carcassonne.
• In the late afternoon, visit the nearby Canal du Midi, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the canal, or if you prefer, take a short boat ride to experience the tranquil beauty of this historic waterway. As evening approaches, find a cozy restaurant within the medieval walls of Carcassonne. Savor the local specialty, cassoulet, a rich and hearty dish made with beans, sausage, and meat. After dinner, take a stroll around the illuminated fortress, soaking in the magical atmosphere of Carcassonne at night before returning to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Suggestion for the day: 

• Today, continue your journey towards Lourdes. The drive will take approximately three hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views of the Pyrenees as you travel through the countryside of southwestern France. Arrive in Lourdes by late morning and begin your visit to this world-renowned pilgrimage site. Start at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, where you can visit the Grotto of Massabielle, the site of the Marian apparitions. Take some time to explore the Rosary Basilica and the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception.  For lunch, find a local restaurant or café near the sanctuary, where you can enjoy traditional French cuisine.
• After lunch, consider visiting the Château Fort of Lourdes, a historic castle offering panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains. In the early afternoon, resume your journey towards Biarritz, a drive of about two hours through the beautiful landscapes of the Pyrenees and Basque Country. Arrive in Biarritz by mid-afternoon and check into your hotel, taking some time to relax and refresh. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Biarritz, a glamorous seaside town known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant surf culture. Visit the Rocher de la Vierge, a rock formation with a statue of the Virgin Mary, connected to the mainland by a footbridge. Enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline.
• As evening approaches, take a leisurely walk along the Grande Plage, the main beach in Biarritz, lined with elegant buildings and seaside cafés. Choose a local restaurant for dinner, where you can savor fresh seafood and Basque specialties while enjoying the ocean views. After dinner, take a stroll along the waterfront promenade, soaking in the lively atmosphere of Biarritz at night. Return to your hotel for a restful night's sleep, ready for the next leg of your journey.

Suggestion for the day: 

• Start your day in Biarritz with a refreshing breakfast at your hotel, then set off mid-morning towards Bordeaux. The drive will take approximately two and a half hours, offering beautiful views of the Atlantic coast and the rolling vineyards of southwestern France. Arrive in Bordeaux and begin your exploration of this historic city, known for its wine and stunning architecture. Start with a visit to the Place de la Bourse and the Miroir d'Eau, a large reflecting pool that creates stunning reflections of the surrounding buildings. For lunch, find a local brasserie in the city center, where you can enjoy traditional French cuisine and sample some local wines.
• After lunch, take a walk along the Garonne River, heading towards the historic district of Saint-Pierre. Spend the afternoon exploring the historic heart of Bordeaux. Visit the impressive Bordeaux Cathedral and climb the Pey Berland Tower for panoramic views of the city. Stroll through the charming streets of the Saint-Pierre district, filled with cafés, boutiques, and historic buildings. Next, head to the Cité du Vin, Bordeaux's modern wine museum. Enjoy an immersive experience learning about the history of wine, its production, and its cultural significance. End your visit with a wine-tasting session, offering a selection of wines from around the world.
• In the early evening, explore the lively district of Chartrons, known for its antique shops and vibrant atmosphere. Find a cozy wine bar to relax and enjoy a glass of Bordeaux wine before dinner. For dinner, choose a restaurant in the Chartrons district or the nearby Quai des Chartrons, offering views of the river. Savor the local specialties, such as entrecôte à la bordelaise (steak with Bordeaux wine sauce) and canelé, a delicious local pastry.

Suggestion for the day: 

• Start your day in Bordeaux with a delightful breakfast, then set off mid-morning towards the Loire Valley. The drive to Amboise, your next destination, will take approximately three and a half hours, offering scenic views of the French countryside, vineyards, and charming towns along the way. Arrive in Amboise by early afternoon and check into your hotel. After a brief rest, begin your exploration of this enchanting town, which sits on the banks of the Loire River. Start with a visit to the Château Royal d'Amboise, a stunning castle that was a residence of the French kings. Explore its beautifully furnished rooms, and take a walk through the terraced gardens, which offer panoramic views of the Loire Valley.
• For lunch, find a local café or bistro near the castle. Enjoy a meal of regional specialties, perhaps accompanied by a glass of Loire Valley wine. After lunch, take a short walk to the nearby Clos Lucé, the final residence of Leonardo da Vinci. Explore the museum dedicated to his life and work, and wander through the park filled with models of his inventions. In the mid-afternoon, take a scenic drive through the surrounding Loire Valley, known for its beautiful châteaux and vineyards. Consider visiting the Château de Chenonceau, a short drive from Amboise, which is famous for its unique architecture spanning the River Cher.
• Alternatively, visit a local winery for a wine tasting session, sampling some of the region’s renowned wines, such as Vouvray or Chinon. Return to Amboise in the late afternoon and take some time to relax by the river, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.

Suggestion for the day: 

• Today, head towards Mont Saint-Michel. The drive will take approximately three and a half hours. Arrive at Mont Saint-Michel by early afternoon. Park your car in the designated parking area on the mainland, then take the shuttle or enjoy a picturesque walk across the causeway to the island. As you approach, marvel at the stunning silhouette of the medieval abbey rising dramatically from the rock. Start your exploration with a visit to the Mont Saint-Michel Abbey. Climb the winding streets and steps to the top, where you can tour the abbey's impressive Gothic architecture and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding bay. Take your time exploring the cloisters, refectory, and other historical areas of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• For lunch, choose one of the charming restaurants or cafés on the island. Sample local specialties such as omelette de la Mère Poulard, a famous fluffy omelet, or fresh seafood from the nearby waters. After lunch, wander through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the village, exploring its shops, museums, and historic buildings. Visit the Musée Maritime to learn about the unique tidal patterns of the bay and the island's history or the Musée Historique for a glimpse into the medieval life of Mont Saint-Michel. In the late afternoon, take a walk around the ramparts, offering panoramic views of the bay and the chance to see the dramatic tides that surround the island. Depending on the tide schedule, you might witness the sea rushing in or out, transforming the landscape.
• For dinner, enjoy a meal at one of the island's restaurants, savoring regional dishes like lamb pre-salé (salt meadow lamb) or moules marinières (mussels in white wine sauce). As night falls, experience the magical atmosphere of Mont Saint-Michel illuminated against the night sky, before heading to your accommodation and settling in for the night.
• After dinner, make your way back across the causeway to your car and drive to a nearby hotel on the mainland, where you can rest for the night, reflecting on the unique beauty and history of Mont Saint-Michel.

Suggestion for the day: 

• The historic city of Rouen is your next stop. The drive will take approximately two and a half hours, offering beautiful views of the Normandy countryside along the way. Arrive in Rouen by late morning and begin your exploration of this charming city, known for its medieval architecture and rich history. Start with a visit to the stunning Rouen Cathedral (Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen), an impressive example of Gothic architecture and famously painted by Claude Monet. Take your time to explore the intricate details of the facade and the serene interior.
• For lunch, find a local bistro in the city center, where you can enjoy traditional Norman cuisine, such as duck à la Rouennaise or a hearty bowl of Normandy's famous cider. After lunch, head to the Gros-Horloge, an ornate astronomical clock that is one of Rouen’s most famous landmarks. Stroll along the pedestrianized Rue du Gros-Horloge, filled with charming shops and cafés. In the early afternoon, visit the Church of Saint Joan of Arc, a modern church built in honor of the famous heroine who was martyred in Rouen. Nearby, you can see the Place du Vieux-Marché, the historic square where Joan of Arc was executed. Take a moment to appreciate the historical significance of the site and explore the surrounding market area.
• Next, head to the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, which houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, including works by Caravaggio, Velázquez, and Monet. Spend some time admiring the art and relaxing in the museum's beautiful garden. As the afternoon comes to a close, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Seine River. Enjoy the picturesque views of the river and the city, and perhaps stop at a riverside café for a drink and a snack. For the last dinner of your road trip, choose a restaurant in the historic city center, where you can savor Norman specialties like coq au cidre (chicken in cider) and tarte Tatin (upside-down apple tart).

Begin your day in Rouen with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, then set off mid-morning towards Paris. The drive will take approximately one and a half to two hours, allowing you to enjoy the scenic countryside of Normandy one last time. As you head towards Paris, depending on when your flight is, plan a stop in Giverny, the picturesque village that was home to the famous Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Giverny is located about halfway between Rouen and Paris, making it a perfect stopover. There you can visit the beautiful Monet's House and Gardens. Explore the artist's charming home, filled with memorabilia and reproductions of his works. Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant flower gardens and the iconic water lily pond, which inspired many of Monet's masterpieces. After soaking in the lovely atmosphere, continue your drive towards Paris.  Once there, return your rental car, and as you wait for your departure, think about all the new beautiful memories you created on this unforgettable road trip!