eastern france travel itinerary

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With bountiful vineyards, classic villages, and hearty cuisine, eastern France is a wonderful part of the country to explore.

Located where the Rhine River divides the European continent, eastern France has been at the strategic centre of empires and nations at war for centuries and has the historical landmarks and scars to show for it. Today it is a mix of cultures where you’ll find traditional French tastes and styles alongside distinct German influences.

A visit to eastern France offers a paradise for those who love to be outdoors, are looking for spectacular scenery, and appreciate good food and excellent wine.

Whether you’re visiting for a weekend, a week … or longer, here are eight great places to visit in eastern France to experience the best the region has to offer as recommended by fellow travel bloggers and us.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our   full disclosure policy here .

TABLE OF CONTENTS

8 great places to visit in eastern france.

• Clermont-Ferrand

Places to Visit in Eastern France Map

As the capital of the Alsace region in eastern France, Strasbourg is home to a dizzying combination of fairytale views, delicious local wine, and a charming pairing of French and German culture.

Come here to explore the food, the architecture, and (depending on the time of year)–the Christmas markets!

MUST DO IN STRASBOURG:

• Pay a Visit to La Petite France : Strasbourg’s most picturesque neighbourhood looks like it was ripped right out of ‘ Beauty & the Beast ‘: all about the half-timber houses, canals, and colourful buildings. If you only have time to do one thing in Strasbourg, visiting this neighbourhood has to be it. Depending on time, you have a couple of options for how to explore: you can wander through the neighbourhood aimlessly, using the pedestrian bridges to hop from one side of the canal to the next, or you can take a boat tour and admire the view from the water! Both have their advantages, and we’d definitely suggest doing both if you have the time.
• Taste the Local Wine and Cheese : Alsatian wine is absolutely delicious, and the region also produces some incredible cheeses–including Munster! Though you can certainly head out for a day to a beautiful winery, if you’re short on time, there are plenty of shops and restaurants in Strasbourg that will be eager to put on a tasting for you.
• Climb to the Roof of the Strasbourg Cathedral : Standing on the roof of Strasbourg’s Cathedral gives you a beautiful view of not only the intricately built cathedral but of the beautiful city of Strasbourg! Look directly down for some truly adorable birds-eye views of winding streets and classic architecture. The interior of the cathedral is worth a quick stop as well–grand and beautiful, it is also home to a quirky astronomical clock!

Contribution and Photo from Kate of   Our Escape Clause

Reviews of La Petite France   |  Reviews of Wine and Cheese Tasting   |  Reviews of Strasbourg Cathedral

Grenoble is an exceptionally special French city that has captivated visitors for centuries. It is situated at the foot of the French Alps and is undeniably picture-perfect, boasting views of Mont Blanc and providing easy access to mind-blowing mountains and forests nearby.

But there’s beauty inside the city too. There’s a unique atmosphere in Grenoble thanks to an intoxicating blend of the old and new; history, architecture and culture collide.

MUST DO IN GRENOBLE:

• La Bastille : Be sure to take the short, yet steep, hike up to the ancient fortification of La Bastille. Or, if you don’t fancy the effort, take the cable car to the top! Positioned on Mount Rachais, these fortifications have immense historical significance to the city and are a must-do for any visitor. They’re great to explore and provide outstanding views over Grenoble too.
• Parc Paul Mistral : In the centre of the city sits Parc Paul Mistral- a huge area of green that provides some lovely respite from the buzz of cars and concrete all around. Simply walk around and soak in the atmosphere here. It’s a peaceful place to spend an afternoon.
• Musée de Grenoble : Finally, check out Grenoble’s main art museum: the Musée de Grenoble. The building itself is pretty cool in itself, but it’s the modern art within that’s the main draw!

Contribution from Danny of Coddiwomp

Reviews of La Bastille   |  Reviews of Parc Paul Mistral   |  Reviews of Musée de Grenoble

Experience the best of the Burgundy region with a visit to Dijon. Here you will discover a rich cultural heritage, exciting culinary experiences and a history dating back to Roman times.

Home to the Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon became a seat of learning, fine arts and the region’s signature wine making. Today you can wander through medieval streets, admire the stunning architecture, soak in the history and sample the local produce.

MUST DO IN DIJON:

• Visit the Ducal Palace and Beaux-Arts Museum : Phillipe le Bon began construction of the imposing Ducal Palace in 1450 on the grounds of a Roman Fortress. Today the palace is both a museum and the city’s administrative centre. Entering through the original chapel, you can see the remains of ancient 14th-century murals and the Salle des Gardes, containing the tombs of Philip the Bold and John the Fearless. The ornate tombs are elaborately embellished, demonstrating that the Dukes were as wealthy in death as in life. The remaining rooms feature collections of artwork and artifacts from the Middle Ages and Renaissance periods. Entry to the museum is free but for a small additional charge, you can climb the 316 stone, spiral stairs in the Tower of Phillip le Bon to the roof terrace and enjoy spectacular views across Dijon.
• Follow the Owl Trail : Follow the “Owl Trail” to discover Dijon’s many historic treasures. Numbered brass owl plaques embedded in the cobblestones guide you through ancient alleyways, past medieval architecture embellished with gargoyles, town squares with elaborate fountains, and half-timbered buildings that have weathered the ages. The tour will take you to most of the major historic attractions in Dijon, including the famous “Dijon Owl” carved into the stone of Notre Dame Cathedral and the ruins of an ancient Roman temple. A walking map is available at the tourist centre, or you can download the “ Owl App ” if you prefer an audio tour.
• Sample the Local Produce : Dijon is also home to fine food, mustard, and, of course, fine Burgundy wines. Sample the local wines, mustards, and cheeses from one of the many market stallholders in the medieval town squares. There are also several food and wine tours available, or simply relax under a shady umbrella at one of the many restaurants and enjoy the local cuisine.

Contribution and Photo from Lesley of   Empty Nesters Travel Insights

Reviews of Musée des Beaux-Arts   |  Reviews of Owl’s Trail   |  Reviews of Local Produce

READ MORE: Looking for more great places to visit in France? Check them out here!

The third-largest city in France , Lyon is the country’s gastronomic capital with a wealth of cultural and historic sites to discover too. Situated on the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône, the city covers the banks of both rivers and is joined by a series of bridges.

This strategic position means that Lyon has been a hub for trade across Europe for centuries. In Lyon, you will find Roman ruins, a UNESCO-listed medieval old town, and the largest fine art museum after the Louvre in Paris . But many people visit Lyon simply to eat.

From fine dining to local markets and traditional restaurants, Lyon is the place to immerse yourself in French cuisine.

MUST DO IN LYON:

• Explore Vieux Lyon and Get Lost in the Famous “Traboules” : These secret passages date from the 4th century and were used by the city’s silk workers to bring their wares to market. There are over 400 in the city’s Croix-Rousse district and some of these are open to the public.
• Discover Lyon’s Gastronomic Heritage : Dine at one of the many Michelin starred restaurants, traditional   bouchons featuring simple fare, and the magnificent Les Halles Paul Bocuse market. Here you will find the best local cheeses, patisserie, and produce.
• Relax in the Parc de la Tête d’Or : With its beautiful lake, ponds, statues, and fountains, this park is a wonderful place to take some time to relax – there is even a small zoo inside the park that is free to visit.

Contribution and Photo from Katy of   Untold Morsels

Reviews of The Old Town   |  Reviews of Parc de la Tête d’Or

CLERMONT-FERRAND

If you want to taste a bit of the quieter France, to leave behind you the busy city of Paris and explore a peaceful little town, then Clermont-Ferrand is what you need. Clermont-Ferrand is in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, around two hours’ drive from Lyon.

This small town is perfect for a short getaway, and it will make you fall in love with it.

MUST DO IN CLERMONT-FERRAND:

• Hike the Puy-de-Dôme: The fascinating thing about this little town is the fact that it is surrounded by dormant volcanoes like the Chaîne des Puys so it’s not surprising that most activities and tourists focus on them. The first thing you should do upon getting to Clermont-Ferrand is to hike the Puy-de-Dôme, which, at an elevation of 1,465m, provides a stunning panorama over the town. If you want to pump up some adrenaline, you can even try some paragliding from its peak!
• Visit the Cathedral : One of the main attractions of the city is the Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption. This incredible cathedral is the landmark of the city, and distinctive features help it stand out from all the other buildings in town. The remarkable feature of the cathedral is its Gothic design and the fact that it’s entirely built of black lava stone.
• Wander the Town : After you’ve admired the cathedral you should start wandering around it to explore the old streets surrounding the cathedral in the old town. These little streets all hide a variety of antiques stores and shops selling various traditional crafts, including cutlery, from nearby Thiers which is also known as the capital of cutlery.

Contribution and Photo from Andra of  Our World to Wander

Reviews of Puy-de-Dôme   |   Reviews of Cathedral Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption

Colmar is an idyllic city in eastern France, in the province of Alsace-Lorraine.  It is a land that was fought over between France and Germany for centuries. Through it all, Alsace-Lorraine has incorporated the culture, architecture and cuisine of both countries, into a unique blend that is found nowhere else in the world.  

Colmar lies in the Rhine valley, just south of the Vosges mountains.  The land is prime for grapes and wine production, and the city is the heart of the Alsatian wine country.  There are a number of vineyards producing the region’s speciality wines.

The city is also known for its charming old town along the canals of the River Launch, which is an area known as La Petite Venise that is characterized by colourful half-timbered homes and cobblestone streets. Traditionally, the bright colours indicated the profession of the family. Although that is no longer the case, today it is required that no neighbouring houses be painted the same colour, to maintain the historic charm.

MUST DO IN COLMAR:

• La Petite Venise : The old town is easy to walk, and there are several points of interest and historical significance along the streets and canals.  Restaurants and cafes offer canal-side seating, the perfect spot to enjoy the delicious Alsatian cuisine. But the most enjoyable way to experience La Petite Venise is taking a canal cruise, which affords fabulous photo opportunities.
• The Bartholdi Museum : Bartholdi was the sculptor who designed the Statue of Liberty as a gift to the United States .  The museum houses many models and casts of the numerous works of Bartholdi which are found throughout France and the United States, and a tour of the family home is also included. Complete the visit by heading north of the city to see the replica of Lady Liberty.
• The Unterlinden Museum : Housed in a former Dominican friary, the museum covers over 7,000 years of history.  The highlight of the museum is the stunning medieval Isenheim Altarpiece. Lovers of religious art should also make a stop at the Dominican church afterward to see the magnificent Madonna of the Rosebush.

Contribution and Photo from Roxanna of   Gypsy With a Day Job

Reviews of La Petite Venise   |  Reviews of Bartholdi Museum   |  Reviews of Unterlinden Museum

A beautiful mountain town close to the Italian border – in fact, if you go on one of the cable car rides, you actually end up in Italy, before you make your way back into France.

Chamonix is a well-known winter destination for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing, but in the summer, the town comes alive with hikers, mountain climbers, as well as Wingsuit flying!

MUST DO IN CHAMONIX:

• Ride the Train up to the Mer De Glace : You’ll see the glacier up close, and even go inside it as well as experience the effects of climate change. In the days when it first became a tourist destination, the cable car ended on the mouth of the glacier. Nowadays, you’ll have to climb down a few sets of stairs to the glacier.
• Wander the Town : A quaint, small town, with lots of places to eat and souvenir shops. The places to eat can take a small drag on your budget, but there are plenty of free drinking fountains to refill your bottle.
• Ride up the Aiguille de Midi Cable Car : The end of the French side is on top of an observation area, where you can see the town from up top. Remember to bring sunscreen as the snow on top of the mountain casts a glare. And yes, there’s snow even in the summertime!

Contribution and Photo from Ruby of   A Journey We Love

Reviews of Mer de Glace   |  Reviews of Aiguille du Midi

Situated at the northern end of the lake of the same name, Annecy is an alpine town in eastern France with pastel-coloured houses, cobbled streets and winding canals.

Settled since Roman times, the town was the court of the Counts of Geneva from the 10th-century, transferred the Counts of Savoy in 1401 until the Savoy region was conquered by France during the French Revolution.

Wandering the town today there are plenty of buildings to admire which are hundreds of years old, canals which earned the town the nickname of the Venice of the Alps whose banks are bedecked in flowers and the glacial lake with its crystal clear waters to enjoy.

MUST DO IN ANNECY:

• Palais de l’Isle : This fairy-tale building is located on a small island in Le Thiou Canal and was built in the 12th-century and has served the town as a prison, courthouse, mint, and residence. It is now a museum that leads visitors through the history of the building and its importance to Annecy.
• Cycle Lake Annecy : Take a day, rent a bike and cycle this stunning lake. The whole trip should take about 2.5 hours, so you’ll have plenty of time for stops to admire the views and, being a lake, it is mostly pretty flat, except through Les Granges.
• Pont des Amours : This elegant bridge is known as Lover’s Bridge and legend says that if two lovers kiss on the bridge, they will be together forever. The spectacular view from the bridge across the lake and up to the mountains as well as back down the canal makes it worth a visit.

Reviews of Palais de l’Isle   |  Reviews of Lake Annecy   |  Reviews of Pont des Amours

Looking for more information to plan your visit to France? You may find these articles helpful.

• 8 Great Places to Visit in Northeast France
• 21 Weekend Breaks in France
• 21 Things to See and Do in Paris, France
• Best of Normandy: 3-Day Road Trip Itinerary

MAP OF PLACES TO VISIT IN EASTERN FRANCE

RESOURCES | PLAN YOUR TRIP TO FRANCE

To book flights, rental cars, accommodations, and activities for your trip, please check out our recommended travel providers, favourite apps and websites. 

• For all things France, you can’t go wrong with Rick Steves! Check out his   France travel guide , full episodes of his   TV show , or download his app for excellent   audio tours .

Some of the links in the post above are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, we will receive an affiliate commission but this does not affect the price to you. Please read our   full disclosure policy here . 

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A Blog About Life & Travel in France

The Ultimate 10-Day Eastern France Itinerary

• By Jen Ciesielski
• Updated: 4 January 2024
• 19 December 2022

Eastern France is a melting pot of diversity. It gathers a whopping five different regions (Champagne-Ardenne, Alsace, Franche-Comté, Lorraine, and the Rhône-Alpes)! Each one with its own unique culture, cuisine, and history. And, yet, few tourists ever venture to this area of France . It sits in the shadows of more popular destinations, beckoning to be explored.

So, if you’re looking for a trip that will take you off the beaten path this eastern France itinerary is for you. In ten days, you’ll travel from France’s bustling capital (Paris) to the enchanting villages in Alsace before zigzagging down to Lyon. Along the way, you’ll sip champagne, visit world-renowned museums, and devour some of the tastiest dishes in France. It has everything for travelers, photographers, and adventurers alike.

Please note : This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking on a link (at no extra cost to you). Privacy Policy .

Eastern France Itinerary Map

This map includes all the sites listed on this itinerary. Click on the map below to open Google Maps.

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 1

Visit the eiffel tower.

Your journey beings in the City of Light with the most epic of monuments, the Eiffel Tower. From its observation deck, you’ll have absolutely stunning views of Paris. Take the elevator to the top or brave the iron stairs. Either way, you won’t be disappointed.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance! They sell out quickly.

You can book your tickets by clicking here .

Useful Tip : If you don’t want to go to the top, there are several spots where you can see the Eiffel Tower for free. My favorite is Place du Trocadéro, especially at sunrise.

Address : Champ de Mars, 5 Avenue Anatole France

Closest Metro Stations : Trocadéro (Lines 6 and 9) and Bir-Hakeim (Line 6).

Meander Around Montmartre

Montmartre is one of the most well-known arrondissements in Paris .

Since the 19th century, this hilltop district has been an important cultural center. In fact, famous artists like Picasso, Renoir, and Van Gogh lived and worked here at some point in their careers.

Today, the area is home to some of Paris’ most recognizable landmarks, including Moulin Rouge. Make sure to stop by Rue de l’Abreuvoir, it’s one of the most charming streets in Paris.

Closest Metro Station : Anvers (Line 2)

Marvel at the Sacré-Coeur Basilica

Of course, no trip to Montmartre is complete without visiting the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. This white-domed church is one of the most beautiful in Paris. It’s an architectural masterpiece that will no doubt leave you in awe. And from its terrace, you’ll have stunning panoramic views of the city below.

Useful Tip : If you’re visiting in summer , make sure to catch the sunset from the steps of the Sacré-Coeur Basilica. You won’t regret it!

Admission to the basilica is free and audio guides are available for a small fee.

Address : 35 Rue du Chevalier de la Barre

Stroll along the Promenade Plantée

The Promenade Plantée is a 4.5-kilometer (2.7-mile) long elevated park that runs through the 12th arrondissement. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy a peaceful stroll.

Every time I’m in Paris I come here . And it’s the first place I recommend when I get asked about cool places to visit. If you can, get there early in the morning. The path will be empty, and you’ll have it all to yourself!

Closest Metro Station : Ledru-Rollin (Line 8) and Bel-Air (Line 6)

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Eastern France Itinerary – Day 2

Travel from paris to reims.

On the morning of day two, you’ll travel from Paris to Reims, the city of champagne.

By Train : Trains run regularly from Paris’ Gare de l’Est station to Reims and take about 45 minutes. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : Driving time ranges from one to two hours, depending on traffic. (Distance: 144 kilometers or 89 miles)

If you’re looking to rent a car in France, I recommend Discover Cars . They search both local and international car rental companies to find you the best deals and the lowest prices.

Explore Reims

The second day of your trip will be luxurious but not expensive. After all, this is where the kings of France were crowned.

Stroll the streets of Reims taking in the beautiful architecture, visit the Palais du Tau, or tour a champagne house. Of course, the Reims Cathedral and the Musée de la Reddition should also be on your list.

With so many things to do you might be wondering if a day in Reims is enough. Believe it or not, it is! The city is small and compact so it’s easy to visit in a single day.

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 3

Travel from reims to strasbourg.

On day three you’ll travel from Reims to Strasbourg. I recommend leaving early in the morning. Strasbourg is bigger than Reims, so you’ll want to be sure to have enough time to visit everything.

By Train : Trains from Reims to Strasbourg are frequent and take about two hours. First, take the train at Reims Central Station to Champagne-Ardenne TGV (15 minutes). Change trains and take the train to Strasbourg (1.5 hours). You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : Driving from Reims to Strasbourg will be much longer than the train. It takes four to five hours in light traffic. (Distance: 347 kilometers or 215 miles) Parking in Strasbourg is limited so make sure your hotel offers it.

Useful Tip : Strasbourg is a small city, and you can visit the highlights in a day. But, if you want to experience all this city has to offer, you’ll need a few days here .

Meander Around La Petite France

La Petite France is the most beautiful neighborhood in Strasbourg. Here colorful half-timbered houses from the 16th-century line narrow cobbled streets. There’s also a host of excellent restaurants and cafés where you can dine in style with some of the best views of the city.

For the most picturesque streets be sure to head to Quai de la Petite France and Rue du Pont du Saint-Martin.

Closest Tram Station : Homme de Fer (Lines A and D)

Dine at La Maison des Tanneurs

If you’re strolling the streets of La Petite France, then stopping for a bite at La Maison des Tanneurs is a must. After all, this is one of the best spots to try traditional-style cuisine in town .

Its cozy interior is charming and welcoming. And the traditional hearty Alsatian menu will no doubt warm your soul. It’s a great way to experience the city’s culinary culture.

Make sure to ask for a table on the terrace, next to the canal. This is the most photographed spot in Strasbourg.

Address : 42 Rue du Bain-aux-Plantes

Marvel at Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral

Strasbourg’s Notre Dame Cathedral is nothing short of magnificent. Construction of this Gothic masterpiece began in the 10th century and continued until 1439. Of course, once you see it, it’s clear why it took so long.

It dominates the city’s skyline at a whopping 142 meters (465 feet). And on a clear day, you can even see its tower from the outskirts of Alsace. Then, if you want to test the limits of your vertigo, climb to the top for the best view over Strasbourg.

Address : Place de la Cathédrale

Closest Tram Station : Broglie (Lines B, C, and F)

Visit Palais Rohan

As the cultural and economic center of Alsace, Strasbourg has played an important role in European history . So, why not explore its rich cultural heritage by visiting a museum?

Of course, there are tons of museums in Strasbourg, but Palais Rohan is home to three! Here you’ll find the Archaeological Museum, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Decorative Arts. And each one is on a different floor. So, not only will you get to learn something cool, but you’ll get to tour this 17th-century baroque palace.

Address : 2 Place du Château

Closest Tram Station : Langstross – Grand’Rue (Lines A and D)

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 4

Travel from strasbourg to colmar.

On the morning of day four, you’ll travel from Strasbourg to Colmar.

By Train : Trains from Strasbourg to Colmar are frequent and take about 30 minutes. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : The route from Strasbourg to Colmar is direct and only takes one hour. (Distance: 75 kilometers or 46 miles)

Useful Tip : Colmar is smaller than Strasbourg and you can see the main highlights in a day. But, if you want to see everything, you’ll need two days in Colmar.

Wander the Streets of Colmar

This charming city is known for its well-preserved old-world architecture. As you wander through the rows of red, blue, and yellow half-timbered Medieval houses you can’t help but wonder if you’ve stepped back in time. It’s easy to get lost in the beauty of it all as each street seems more colorful than the last.

I recommend starting in La Petite Venise (Little Venice) near the Rue des Écoles bridge. It’s the most photogenic spot in Colmar.

Tour the Unterlinden Museum

The Unterlinden Museum is one of the most famous museums in Colmar and the most visited in Alsace. It’s home to an impressive collection of works dating to prehistorical times. But its most well-known piece is the Isenheim Altarpiece from the early 15th century. Tickets start at €13.

Address : Place des Unterlinden

Take a Gondola Ride

The Lauch River flows through the most enchanting neighborhoods of Colmar. So, why not explore it from a gondola?

In this unforgettable experience, you’ll weave through the romantic canals of Colmar, taking in some amazing views. Your gondolier is also a tour guide. So, they’ll cover the history of Colmar and give you some insider stories that you won’t hear elsewhere. It’s definitely one of the best things to do in Colmar !

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 5

Travel from colmar to eguisheim.

On the fifth day, you’ll travel to a small town not far from Colmar, Eguisheim.

By Bus : Head to the bus stop next to Colmar’s main train station called Diaconat. Take Bus 7 to Ricoh, the closest stop to Eguisheim.

By Car : Eguisheim is seven kilometers (four miles) west of Colmar. By car, it only takes 15 minutes.

Spend the Day in Eguisheim

Nestled among the rolling vineyards of Alsace, lies a picturesque village called Eguisheim. This quaint town is mostly known by local tourists. But don’t let that deter you, there are so many attractions to visit in Eguisheim . In fact, this is one of my favorite places to visit in eastern France!

Wander the ramparts admiring the beautiful buildings or hike up to Les Trois Châteaux (The Three Castles) for the most magnificent views over the region. Then, of course, there’s the wine. It’s touted as the best in Alsace. You can tour the vineyards or a wine cellar. Either way, you won’t regret it.

Return to Colmar

Return to Colmar using the same bus you took to get to Eguisheim.

Useful Tip : While you could stay in Eguisheim, there are more accommodation options in Colmar.

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 6

Travel from colmar to kaysersberg.

On the sixth day, you’ll be exploring another beautiful town in Alsace, Kaysersberg. It’s not far from Colmar and it’s easily accessible.

By Bus : From the Théâtre bus stop in Colmar take Bus 68R013 to Rocade Verte (the bus stop in Kaysersberg). Buses run every two hours and take about 30 minutes.

By Car : Kaysersberg is not far from Colmar, but parking is limited. The total driving time is about 15 minutes. (Distance: 11.2 kilometers or 6.9 miles)

Visit Kaysersberg

Kaysersberg is another beautiful town in the Alsace region of eastern France. It’s well known for its picturesque architecture and lovely scenery. There are also plenty of things to do in Kaysersberg . Highlights include a fortified bridge from the 15th century, the every-impressive Château de Schlossberg that overlooks the town, and, of course, Église Sainte-Croix. Then, if you’re looking for an adventure, hike to Rocher des Corbeaux. It’s a 40-minute uphill slog, but your efforts will be rewarded with stunning views of the valley below.

Return to Colmar using the same bus you took to get to Kaysersberg.

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 7

Travel from colmar to dijon.

On day seven, you’ll leave Alsace and head to the capital of Burgundy, Dijon.

By Train : From Colmar’s Central Station, take the train to Dijon. Trains are frequent and take about two hours. Direct trains are rare so, in some cases, you’ll have to change at Mulhouse. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : The route to Dijon is straightforward and takes about two to three hours. (Distance: 251 kilometers or 155 miles)

Discover Dijon

Dijon is a city rich in history and culture. It’s easily one of the best places in eastern France to visit. There are plenty of things to do here, but 24 hours in Dijon is enough.

Start your day at Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne. This palace is a masterpiece of architectural design. Not only that but it’s also home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, which has free admission. And last, but not least, you can go up to the tower (Tour Philippe le Bon) for some incredible views over the city.

After you toured the palace head over to the Dijon’s Notre Dame Cathedrale. It’s sure to leave you in awe.

Of course, no trip to Dijon is complete without sampling some mustard. After all, this is the town where it originated. You can even visit the original Maille shop!

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 8

Travel from dijon to lyon.

After a wonderful day in Dijon, you’ll head to the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, Lyon.

By Train : Trains from Dijon to Lyon leave hourly and take about two hours. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : From Dijon to Lyon, the route is direct and only takes two hours. (Distance: 194 kilometers or 120 miles)

Useful Tip : This eastern France Itinerary allows for two days in Lyon. But if you want to explore everything this wonderful town has to offer, three days in Lyon is ideal.

Wander through Vieux Lyon (Lyon’s Old Town)

Vieux Lyon sits between the banks of the Saône River and cobblestoned streets lined with Renaissance-era mansions. It’s here you’ll find the most beautiful architecture in the city. Then, of course, there’s the majestic Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste which is a must-visit.

There’s also a wealth of museums in the neighborhood. My favorite was the Musée Miniature et Cinéma (Movies & Miniature Museum). From life-like models to tiny scenes, you’ll learn about special effects and how they’ve evolved over the years. It’s an extraordinary museum, to say the least.

Closest Metro Station : Vieux Lyon – Cathédrale Saint-Jean (Line D)

Get Lost in a Traboule

Who doesn’t like secret passageways?

Believe it or not but Lyon has tons of hidden passageways or traboules.

These traboules were originally created to transport products. The first of these appeared in the fourth century but proved the most useful during World War II. Today, you can explore these hidden passageways as part of a tour or on your own. There are several throughout the city, but a few stand out.

Below are the most famous traboules in Lyon:

• Longest Traboule – 54 Rue St Jean connecting with 27 Rue de Boeuf
• Cour des Voraces – Entrances at Place Colbert, Montée Saint-Sébastien and Rue Imbert-Colomès.

Useful Tip : I had a hard time finding the entrances. Keep your eyes peeled. Most of the time they are labeled, but the labels are not obvious. Don’t be afraid to enter through a door that looks like someone’s house.

Marvel at Lyon’s Frescoes

When it comes to street art Lyon doesn’t disappoint. And of the pieces you will see, the frescoes are the most impressive. These giant murals depict everyday scenes in life-size proportions. In fact, these are so real they almost look like an optical illusion or trompe l’oeil in French. Some of the most famous include La Fresque des Canuts, La Fresque des Lyonnais, and La Bibliothèque de la Cité.

Addresses :

• La Fresque des Canuts – Corner of Boulevard des Canuts and Rue Denfert Rochereau
• La Fresque des Lyonnais – 2 Rue de la Martinière
• La Bibliothèque de la Cité – 6 Rue de la Platière

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 9

Meander around fourvière hill.

Towering over Lyon lies one of its most beautiful neighborhoods, Fourvière Hill. From Vieux Lyon, it’s a solid climb to the top, but you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views and some of the best attractions in the city. Given its size and the number of things to see, it will take you at least half a day to visit the entire area.

First on the list of things to see is the ever-magnificent Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière . Featuring Romanesque and Byzantine architecture, this marble-coated church features intricate mosaics and gorgeous stained-glass windows.

Not far from the basilica is the Ancient Theatre of Fourvière. Once at the center of the Romain city, this, now UNESCO World Heritage Site can sit up to 10,000 people. The ruins are open to the public and free to visit year-round.

Next to the theater is the Gallo-Roman Museum of Lyon-Fourvière . This massive museum covers the history of Lyon starting from its first inhabitants. And, for only €7, you’ll get to tour one of the largest archaeological collections in France.

Then, to finish your time in Fourvière Hill, head to Jardin des Curiosités. This small garden isn’t much, but the views are spectacular. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic.

Closest Funicular Station (to Fourvière Hill) : Minimes Théatres Romains (Line F1)

Explore Parc de la Tête d’Or

Parc de la Tête d’Or is the largest and most visited park in Lyon. At a whopping 117 hectares (290 acres), it’s easy to spend an afternoon here. Stroll along the well-maintained walking paths, admire one of its many gardens, or picnic in a grassed area. It’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Closest Metro Station : Charpennes Charles Hernu (Lines A and B)

Eastern France Itinerary – Day 10

Travel from lyon to paris.

After two glorious days in Lyon, you’ll head back to Paris to finish your trip.

By Train : Trains go from Lyon’s Part Dieu to Paris’ Gare de Lyon almost every hour and take two and a half hours. It’s a popular route so you should buy your tickets a few days in advance. You can book your train tickets online by clicking here .

By Car : The route from Lyon to Paris is direct, but far. It takes about five hours. (Distance: 465 kilometers or 288 miles)

Visit Paris

Depending on your schedule, you can either finish the list of things to do in Paris above or visit some other sites. If you have more time, I recommend a few things.

First is the Louvre. Yes, this is touristy but it’s a must-see, nonetheless. Then, there’s the Père Lachaise Cemetery. This is the most visited cemetery in Paris and for good reason. Here you’ll find the tombstones of artists including Edith Piaf and Oscar Wilde. And, last but not least, my favorite place of all, Bois de Vincennes. It’s the perfect place to relax before catching a flight!

Get In and Around

This eastern France itinerary starts and ends in Paris. And, of the cities on this list, it’s the easiest to reach and the most connected.

Paris has two international airports (Charles de Gaulle and Orly). You can also reach most cities on this list from a train station in Paris.

You can do this itinerary by train or car. Both are excellent options. The high-speed trains in France are very efficient, but the freedom that comes with renting a car can’t be beat.

Renting a Car – If you’re looking to rent a car in France, I recommend Discover Cars . They search both local and international car rental companies to find you the best deals and the lowest prices.

Train Tickets – You can book and buy all of your train tickets online by clicking here .

When to Visit Eastern France

• April to June – This is one of the best times to visit eastern France. The summer crowds have yet to arrive, the weather is pleasant, and prices are lower.
• July to August – This is the worst time to travel in France. The prices are at their highest, the crowds are unbearable, and the heat is stifling.
• September to November – Like Spring, Fall is another great time to visit eastern France. The summer crowds have cleared, and prices start to drop. Plus, the falls colors start to show in the middle of October.
• December – If you want to see the Christmas markets, this is the best time to visit.
• January to March – Unless you love skiing, this is not a good time to tour eastern France. It’s cold and most outdoor attractions are closed.

What is East France known for?

Eastern France is known for its beautiful landscapes, charming villages, and delicious food. From bustling cities and world-renowned museums to rolling vineyards and ancient ruins, there’s something for everyone in this region of France.

What to Visit in the East of France?

There are so many places to visit in the East of France! The most popular destinations include Reims, Colmar, and Lyon. Of course, there are some hidden gems that are often overlooked like Dijon and Eguisheim.

What is Eastern France like?

Eastern France is very diverse. The cities are vibrant and full of cultural activities, while the villages offer a glimpse of small-town life. The landscapes are varied, with rolling hillsides, lush vineyards, and snow-capped mountains. And the food is mouth-wateringly delicious! It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to get off the beaten path and explore a unique region of France.

Free Printable Eastern France Itinerary

Whether you’re looking for quaint villages, delicious food, or stunning landscapes, you’ll find it in eastern France. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do, but I recommend Spring or Fall. The crowds are smaller, and the weather is pleasant. But no matter when you visit, you’re guaranteed an epic adventure. This eastern France itinerary is designed to show you all this wonderful region has to offer. So, start planning your trip today!

Read More Articles About France

I hope you enjoyed my eastern France itinerary and found it useful. Here are some other articles that I think you might find interesting.

• 20 Pros and Cons of Living in France
• 15 Pros and Cons of Living in Strasbourg

Jen Ciesielski

Jen Ciesielski is the creator of Dabbling in Jet Lag. She has lived abroad for over ten years, traveled to more than 50 countries, and speaks French and English fluently. Her areas of expertise include moving abroad, learning languages, and travel planning. Originally from the United States, she now lives in France, where she has been for more than six years. She has also traveled extensively around the country. She shares her experiences as an expat living in France and helps thousands of people plan their trips every month.

11 Most Beautiful Towns in Eastern France To Visit on a Road Trip

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: September 13, 2024

Eastern France is the perfect place to explore beautiful towns, villages, vibrant cities, world-class vineyards, fairytale castles , and Gothic churches. And, of course, feasting on French and international dishes and fine wines from the area is all part of the magical experience of driving through this beautiful part of France.

If you are considering a road trip through Eastern France, the international town of Strasbourg is a great place to start.

The driving route will pass through the delightfully charming towns and villages in the Alsace region to the vineyards of Burgundy and the alpine mountains of Chamonix, the world championship ski resort.

Eastern France borders Switzerland , Germany and Italy, so it is easy to continue to one of these other amazing countries on your European Road Trip. If you prefer to loop back to Strasbourg through France, then Lyon and Metz are two more great French towns to visit in north-eastern France .

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Table of Contents

Helpful Information For Visiting Eastern France

The best way to get to strasbourg.

The flight time from the UK to Strasbourg via Amsterdam is approximately 4 hours.

Eurostar with a car from the UK to Calais is 55 minutes.

Ferry crossing by car from the UK to Calais takes 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The driving time from Calais to Strasbourg is 6 hours.

Foot passengers can hire a car in France from Calais or Strasbourg upon arrival by air, train, or ferry.

The Best Towns To Stay In Eastern France

Strasbourg for 1 or 2 nights

Colmar or Eguisham for two or three nights – use one of these as your base and then drive out each day to the surrounding towns in Alsace.

Beaune for two nights

Grenoble for one night

Annecy for one night

Chamonix 1 or 2 nights

Top Tips For Driving Through France

Driving is on the right-hand side of the road.

Tolls must be paid on certain roads in France. Ensure you have cash or a pre-paid toll card to pass through the toll areas. You can find more information here on driving through France.

If you are driving through large cities, you must  purchase a French clean air sticker .

The Most Beautiful Towns And Villages In Eastern France (complete with driving times) 

With the help of fellow travel bloggers who agree that Eastern France is a fabulous destination, I have compiled a road trip itinerary highlighting 11 unmissable towns in Eastern France that you must visit on a road trip through France.

I think you will agree that there are some spectacular towns and villages for travellers to explore.

Eastern France Road Trip Map

Strasbourg #1

Strasbourg is the capital of the charming Alsace region in eastern France, just a short distance from Switzerland and Germany. It is packed with fun things to do and see.

Strasbourg’s beautiful cobbled streets, flower-laden buildings, and picturesque canals are a taster of the delights to be discovered in other Alsace towns of Eastern France, such as  Ribeauville ,  Riquewihr ,  Kaysersberg, and  Colmar.

With its 12th-century Gothic towers and impressive astronomical clock, Strasbourg Cathedral is the city’s centrepiece and well worth visiting.  Strasbourg is also one of the best destinations in France for foodies, so you can enjoy refreshments in one of the many traditional restaurants surrounding Cathedral Square.

Cruise along the canals and learn more about this historical city and why it is known as “Petite France.” Afterwards, stroll to the Place de la Republique, the German imperial district known as the Neustadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Strasbourg is also the seat of the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, and the European Court of Human Rights. Due to its blend of German and French culture, it is known as the “Capital of Europe.”

Recommended Strasbourg Tours

Where to stay in strasbourg.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Strasbourg

Time and Distance from Strasbourg to Ribeauville – 45 minutes / 65.2 kilometres

Ribeauville #2

Ribeauville is one of the small picturesque French villages on the Alsace Wine Route. With a population of just under 5,000, it is a highly popular destination for travellers exploring the Alsace Region.

Located only 16 kilometres from Colmar and 65 kilometres from Strasbourg, it is a perfect place to stop, explore and spend the night before continuing on the road to visit some of the other unmissable towns in Eastern France.

You must visit “Grand Rue”, Ribeauville’s main street, lined with restaurants, bakeries, cellar doors and pretty buildings dating back to the 15th and 18th centuries.

Wander along its medieval cobblestones and discover squares adorned with Renaissance-style fountains. Experience Ribeauville like a local by heading off the main street to find local establishments such as Bar Gourman for refreshments.

From the town centre, there is a popular walking trail that takes in historical sites.

On the hill directly behind the town, you will find three castles. Saint-Ulrich castle, Girsberg castle, and Haut-Ribeaupierre castle. You can enjoy the panoramic views across the city’s rooftops from here.

Where To Stay In Ribeauville

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Ribeauville

Time and Distance from Ribeauville to Riquewihr – 10 minutes / 5 kilometres

Riquewihr #3

The village of Riquewihr in France’s Alsace region is truly charming and one of the unmissable places to visit in Eastern France.

The walled town centre is filled with traditional half-timbered houses painted in rainbow colours.  

In spring and summer, they are covered in wisteria and other vines, and it’s such a romantic place to sit and enjoy the small-town atmosphere.

Riquewihr is nestled amongst vineyards, and tasting the local wines can be done right on the main street. There’s also plenty of locally produced food too. Look out for delicious bakeries, cheese shops and small goods.

After all that delicious food, walk up into the vineyards behind the town for great views of the rooftops and the valley beyond.

You must visit a small museum called the “Museum of Thieves”. Visitors can access one section of the medieval walls to explore, but just wandering the streets is captivating enough for a relaxed visit.

If you stay overnight, look for the nightly light show projected onto the town’s upper gate.

Food from the Alsace region has a German twist to it. To try some, have dinner at La Grappe d’Or, where you will likely forget you are in France.

Riquewihr is on the Grand Crus Alsace wine trail, so it is an excellent location for a hike or bike ride if you want a more active visit.

Riquewihr is less than one hour from Strasbourg or twenty minutes from Colmar , so it is a perfect day trip from either of these larger cities.

Where To Stay In Riquewihr

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Riquewihr

Time and Distance from Riquewihr to Kaysersburg – 23 minutes / 10.9 kilometres

Kaysersberg #4

Contributed by Derek and Mike from Robe Trotting

One of the most beautiful French villages lies just east of the Rhine River beneath a simple castle fortress.

It’s surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills with a medieval town centre and picturesque cobblestone streets. The village is called Kaysersberg, and it’s a must-see road trip stop on the French Alsace’s wine route.

Kaysersberg is quintessential Alsatian, with half-timber houses painted in pastel colours and provincial buildings housing boutiques, bakeries, and wine houses.

In the village of Kaysersberg, you should make time to get lost in the ribbons of winding streets.

Stroll over stone bridges traversing the stream that once powered the town’s mills.

Of course, you should also visit the wine shops for tastings and purchase a bottle of Alsatian white wine to enjoy at home; this is one of France’s best wine regions !

The city has a complicated past as it was once a free city-state and, through the war, was absorbed by both France and Germany throughout history.

There are memorials to the residents who were forced to serve in the German military during World War II and those who perished defending the town before the Germans captured it.

The town of Kaysersberg is a real gem in eastern France and should not be missed when exploring Alsace.

Consider a stay at Hotel KLE , a boutique hotel and spa where you can pamper yourself while enjoying the beauty of Kaysersberg and the town’s brilliant wine culture.

Where To Stay In Kayersberg

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Kaysersberg

Time and Distance from Kaysersberg to Colmar – 21 minutes / 11 kilometres

Planning on heading to the South of France? Please Read

16 Most Beautiful Places in the South of France For an Epic Holiday

Gorgeous Colmar in France’s Alsace region is close to the German border and a fantastic mix of French and Germanic culture.

The Old Town has beautiful half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, a great mix of historic landmarks, cute restaurants, and excellent bakeries serving the regional speciality Kugelhopf cakes.

You’ll also find plenty of wine shops selling the regional Riesling and Gewürztraminer wines from the local Alsatian wine route.

The most famous part of the Old Town is the Little Venice area – La Petite Venise – where colourful half-timbered houses sit alongside Colmar’s canal network.

This area used to be home to butchers, tanners, and fishmongers, but thankfully, it’s stench-free now!

It’s the perfect spot to try one of the local wines, sit on a restaurant balcony overlooking the canal, and watch the boats travel along.  

The beautiful St Martin’s church dominates the Old Town and is well worth visiting to admire the Gothic architecture.

The Unterlinden Museum is a great place to get a culture fix. It houses an extensive collection of local and international artworks.  

While in Colmar, you must try a slice of delicious “Tarte Flambee” or “Flammkuchen” – a thin pizza-like base topped with lardons (bacon), onions and cheese.

You can get it at many of the restaurants in Colmar, and it’s also available “à emporter” – to take away.

Recommended Tours In Colmar

Where to stay in colmar.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Colmar

Time and Distance from Colmar to Eguisheim –  14 minutes /  6.8 kilometres 

Eguisheim #6

Contributed by Kristel and Gabriel from Chef Travel Guide

The small commune of Eguisheim on the Alsatian wine trail is only a leisurely 30-minute bicycle ride from Colmar and a fantastic starting point on any wine-tasting adventure.

You will instantly be transported to a place right out of a fairytale, including medieval half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and a church with nesting storks on top.

The entire town centre is within the castle’s old walls, once surrounded by a moat.

This incredibly charming commune has won several awards for its flowers and has been honoured as one of France’s most beautiful villages .

Although Eguisheim is a stunner , the wines produced here are even more gorgeous.

This small town is home to 33 wine producers, two of which hold the highly esteemed Grand Cru designation, including the Pfersigberg and Eichberg wineries.

Although the Alsatian wine region is known for its Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Blanc, and Pinot Gris, the show’s star is Crémant d’Alsace. This sparkling wine is produced in white and rosѐ versions and must not be missed.

If you want a sweet treat to fuel your pedal back to your accommodation, visit one of the many amazing little patisseries, including Maison Alsacienne de Biscuiterie, for some macarons or a kugelhopf, a cake (often with raisins), traditionally baked in a distinctive circular shape.

Where To Stay In Eguisheim

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Eguisheim

Time and Distance from Eguisheim to Dijon –  2 hours 28 minutes /  245 kilometres (this route has tolls)

Dijon is a small, perfectly formed medieval city in eastern France. It is a perfect destination and base for food and wine lovers.

Deep in the heart of historic Burgundy and surrounded by the vineyards of the Cote d’Or, the region is home to over 3,000 winemakers and has vines as old as 600 AD.  

The off-the-beaten-track French city  of Dijon is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, laden with medieval half-timbered houses and elegant Renaissance buildings, to remind you that this city was once home to the Duchy Burgundy, a significant power in Europe.

You’ll find Dijon’s excellent restaurants and a buzzing street scene in the pedestrian-friendly city centre.

Make sure to visit the bustling Les Halles market, where the best local and regional foods are for sale every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, underneath the steel beams and glass-ceiling structure designed by Gustave Eiffel.  

Although most Dijon mustard is now manufactured in Canada, it’s worth visiting one of the mustard shops in the centre to try some traditional and more modern versions of this historic French accompaniment.

Follow the Parcours de la Chouette (Owl Route), which takes in the top 22 places of interest within the old city.

If you don’t fancy walking the route, you can do it on a Segway or bike. Ensure you see the original owl carved on the side of the Église Notre Dame. Local tradition says if you rub the owl with your left hand and make a wish, your wish will come true.

Recommended Tours In Dijon

Where to stay in dijon.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Dijon

Time and Distance from Dijon to Beaune – 40 minutes / 44.6 kilometres (this route has tolls)

At first, Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, seems like a sleepy French village; however, scratch its surface, and you will uncover that it is a town full of history and culture.

At its historical centre is the Hospices de Beaune. Once the home of the Dukes of Burgundy and a medieval hospital for the poor, it is now an excellent interactive museum that tells about the property with reconstructions of the central ward and apothecary.

Don’t write it off—it is fascinating. The property still owns several vineyards in the area that produce world-renowned wines.

Of course, being the wine capital of Burgundy, sampling wine from the region will undoubtedly be on your list of things to do in Beaune .

From wine tastings and cellar tours in town to guided tours of the 10 Grand Cru vineyards in the surrounding area. Or why not hire a bike from Beaune and peddle through the beautiful countryside to discover all it has to offer?

The centre of Beaune is the perfect place to stock up on provisions for your onward journey.

Shops selling wine, cheese, pate, bread and pastries line the narrow streets vying for your attention, while beautiful fine dining restaurants tempt you inside with their extravagant menus and wine lists.

If you love fine dining, Beaune is undoubtedly the place to be, with several Michelin-star restaurants for you to try!

Recommended Beaune Wine Tours

Where to stay in beaune.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Beaune

Time and Distance from Beaune to Grenoble- 2 hours 35 minutes / 270 kilometres ( this route has tolls)

Grenoble #9

Grenoble, the self-designated “Capital of the Alps”, has abundant natural and cultural assets. As one of Europe’s most important research and technology centres, it is no stranger to innovation and has reinvented itself many times over the last two hundred years.

Its historic centre is perfect for strolling through centuries-old buildings with Renaissance and Gothic facades. Don’t miss the charming Saint-André square with its terraced restaurants, Place Grenette or the covered market of Place Aux Herbes.

Grenoble’s most famous destination is La Bastille Fort, built in the early 19th century and 475 metres above the city. The fort is accessible by foot for more active visitors, but most take the cable car with its iconic bubble gondola design.

Home to Art Exhibitions and a Military Museum, the most prominent attraction is the splendid panoramic view of the city and surrounding region.

From here, the vistas of the Chartreuse, Vercors and Belledonne mountain ranges are jaw-dropping. You may even see Mont Blanc, which is 150 km to the northwest of the city.

Other Grenoble attractions include the hugely impressive Domain de Vizille with its beautiful landscaped gardens and the only museum in France dedicated to the French Revolution.

Less than 10 km from the city centre, the tiny village of Sassenage offers visitors a trip to a fabulous cave network and the splendid Dauphinois Chateau.

Recommended Tours In Grenoble

Where to stay in grenoble.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Grenoble

Time and Distance from Grenoble to Annecy – 1 hour 21 minutes / 107 kilometres ( this route has tolls)

A quintessentially charming little French town, Annecy checks all the boxes for a relaxing, scenic weekend destination.

Situated on Lake Annecy with the stunning Alps looming behind, it is full of tranquil canals lined with quaint old buildings and plenty of decorative flower arrangements.

Photographers could (and do) spend days here, enjoying the picturesque spots around every corner. The lake is a water-sports hot spot in the summer, offering motor and pedal boat rentals, fantastic beaches, and even waterslides.

Active types can enjoy water skiing and wakeboarding, following hiking trails around the lake or taking a circular bike trip around the entire city.

The truly adventurous can tackle the world-famous Tour du Mont Blanc trek , which starts just 2 hours away in Chamonix , a gorgeous little town in its own right.

Annecy has many beautiful hotels and a wide range of terrific restaurants throughout the old town. Le Munich is a particular favourite for its outstanding German cuisine and excellent location on the canal.

It has photogenic canals, lake and mountain views, old-town charm and enough food options to keep you busy for months. Annecy is one of the best places to visit in France and a hidden gem of eastern France.

Recommended Tours In Annecy

Where to stay in annecy.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Annecy

Time and Distance from Annecy to Chamonix – 1 hour 17 minutes / 101 kilometres ( this route has tolls)

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc #11

Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, the world-famous ski resort in Eastern France, is much more than a winter destination.

Visit Chamonix in the summer , and you will discover a charming town adorned with flowers and eclipsed by Mont Blanc, the second-highest mountain in Europe.

Chamonix offers a wealth of outdoor pursuits for all ages and fitness levels, from hiking trails through the most beautiful scenery in the French Alps to parasailing, helicopter rides, glacier hikes, bungee jumping and mountain biking.

All year round, cable cars take visitors to nearby peaks with panoramic views, including the most famous Aiguille du Midi.

Once at the top, head to the highest gourmet restaurant in town, step inside “The Void” – a glass box overhanging the mountain’s side or take a trip to Italy via the mountains. 

Start on the Aiguille du Midi Cable car in France, head across on the panoramic gondola to the Italian side and descend into Courmayeur, the hidden gem in Northern Italy’s Aosta Valley , via Skyway Monte Bianco Cable car. Then make your way back from Courmayeur to Chamonix by bus or taxi via the Mont Blanc tunnel.

If you prefer something more sedate, visit one of the charming cafes or restaurants in town and watch the world go by or relax in your outdoor swimming pool and jacuzzi at Hotel Mont Blanc , the most luxurious hotel in Chamonix. Whatever you choose to do, Chamonix is the perfect place to add to your road trip itinerary.

Recommended Tours In Chamonix

Where to stay in chamonix.

Rates and Availability for Accommodation in Chamonix

Please Pin for Future Travel to France

Are you looking for further French travel inspiration? Please check out the following posts:

9 Great French Beaches for Sun Worshippers

A Wonderful Weekend of Sightseeing and Champagne Tasting in Reims

Discover The French Riviera in 3-Nights: The Best Travel Guide

Eze: The Enchanting Village on the French Riviera

How To Visit Claude Monet’s House and Garden On A Giverny Day Trip From Paris

Angela Price is an accomplished travel writer bringing extensive expertise and passion to the world of travel. With over 35 years of globetrotting adventures under her belt and with a keen eye for unique experiences, she has established herself as an authoritative voice in travel, offering invaluable insights for fellow adventurers seeking to uncover the delights of worldwide destinations. Her motto is “live life wandering not wondering”

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Friday 19th of November 2021

I'm so glad I came across this post. A commendable effort putting so much information together about Eastern France. Keep it up!

Saturday 5th of September 2020

I lived with a host family near Strasbourg as a teenager and hung out in Strasbourg all the time. Great region and beautiful area. Loved the tarte flambee and muenster cheese!

Laureen Lund

What a great blog...so much information! It breaks my heart I can't travel right now. I am saving this to refer to later...thank you for all your research and your photos are amazing.

Friday 4th of September 2020

This post has me drooling. I would LOVE to do this. I've been to France several times but have not really seen much of it outside of Paris. So! One day! A leisurely Eastern France road trip. Thanks for the inspiration.

What a great post. Unfortunately I live in Mexico right now so can't get back to France easily but I grew up exploring this region. I love France so much and this made me so homesick. Awesome photos, btw.

• Travel Planning Guide

Eastern France 7-Day Itinerary

Transportation

• Travel Costs

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation, wine, food, and the countryside.

Ready to craft the perfect adventure around Eastern France, but unsure about where to kick things off, which places to hit, the budget, or how many days to plan for? This itinerary is perfect for you because it's packed with all the essentials to create a spectacular seven-day journey. You'll be able to see the museums, delicious food, beautiful locations, and couples along the way.

If you follow this guide, you'll find local wineries, delicious food, gorgeous countryside, and historic towns. All of the specific planning information you need will be covered below, such as the route, expected budget, activities, and where to stay.

This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:

• Lyon ( 2 days )
• Beaune ( 2 days )
• Dijon ( 2 days )
• Auxerre ( 1 day )

Itinerary Highlights

• Great for couples
• Family-friendly
• Good for backpackers and budget travelers
• Delicious Food
• Small Town Charm
• Historic Sites
• Beautiful Locations

The beautiful and charming small towns of the region are a must-see. They provide an excellent chance to dive into the local culture, history, food, and more.

You'll also be able to uncover the rich and vibrant history of Eastern France. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic architecture, museums, and deep historical culture that permeates the area.

When is the best time to visit?

Autumn in Eastern France offers a cooler climate, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the added perk of dwindling tourist crowds as the season unfolds. Consider this time of year for a visit if you are able to work it into your schedule.

Summer is a great time to visit Eastern France. It's a peak travel season here that draws plenty of visitors for a good reason. Although you might encounter bustling crowds, the upside is that everything will be wide open and within easy reach.

Who is this itinerary for?

Let's get into the romantic side of Eastern France. This region has a well-deserved reputation as the perfect spot for couples. If you're exploring with your special someone, get ready for a truly delightful experience. Especially visit Dijon, Lyon, and Beaune for the enchanting atmosphere.

If you're planning a family getaway , the area is an absolute winner for a fantastic, kid-friendly trip. There's a wide variety of activities tailored for the little ones. We'll dig into more details below. In particular, make a point to visit Lyon.

This area offers a myriad of travel choices perfect for those on a budget or backpacking adventure. Whether it's budget-friendly hostels, affordable hotels, free activities, pocket-friendly dining, or the lively social scene, you're in for a fantastic trip even if you're pinching pennies. Spending more time in Lyon can especially help your budget.

Getting from one destination to another in Eastern France is generally easy, with the majority of these places being approximately 3 hours apart.

We've planned this as a one-way journey from Lyon to Auxerre because it covers a lot of distance and the transportation options are good in both places. However, you could always loop back to the beginning if it's easier. Also, you can do this route in the opposite direction if you find better tickets into Auxerre instead of Lyon. To get to Lyon, you can see flight prices and schedules here .

To navigate this itinerary with ease, do it with a car . If you aren't in a position to bring your own, no problem, just rent a car . Having your own vehicle in Eastern France means you're in control of your schedule and can make pit stops whenever you feel like it.

The train network in Eastern France offers a hassle-free and economical way to explore the region. Major cities are well-connected with swift train services, though reaching smaller towns might involve additional time and potential transfers to local buses. Opting for main routes ensures a straightforward journey, allowing travelers to relax and take in the beautiful views from their seats. It's advisable to plan ahead by checking ticket prices and schedules for a smooth travel experience.

Is seven days enough time in Eastern France?

Yes, seven days should give you ample time to explore the key destinations in Eastern France. Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures you can savor these locales at a leisurely pace, making your trip both relaxed and enjoyable. Of course, if you're eager for more local experiences, feel free to extend your stay or delve deeper into each spot. Day trip options abound, offering flexibility. Conversely, if time is tight, you can customize this suggested itinerary for a shorter yet fulfilling visit. While trimming destinations is an option, we recommend sticking to around seven days to truly appreciate everything.

How much does a seven-day trip to Eastern France cost?

Let's break down the estimated budget for this specific seven-day adventure in Eastern France, assuming you stick to the plan outlined below. Drawing on actual spending data from travelers and cost data from major travel companies, the daily average costs below are per person. They exclude transportation, as that can vary depending on your choices. Consider this breakdown as a financial roadmap, with mid-level hotels, regular dining, and key attractions aligning with these estimates. Anyone seeking cheaper options can opt for hostels, budget hotels, and more affordable food options. On the flip side, embracing luxury hotels, upscale dining, and private tours will make you go well beyond this budget.

The estimated cost for this seven-day adventure in Eastern France is approximately $1,102 per person, according to our calculations. It's worth noting that this does not cover transportation between destinations. That part is entirely dependent on your chosen mode of travel.

Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through Eastern France based on calculated averages.

Hotel Prices

The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Sourced from Kayak's hotel data, it's crucial to recognize that these figures exclude taxes and fees. Think of these averages as representative of mid-range hotel experiences, yet, keep in mind, that it's possible to spend more or less, particularly if you opt for budget-friendly lodgings or indulge in high-end luxury hotels. These prices will usually be higher during peak travel season, too.

Hostel Prices

If you're all about smart spending on your adventure, hostels are an enticing option, especially for younger or solo travelers. The prices outlined below show the average expenses for a dorm bed in a hostel at each destination. Despite sacrificing a bit of privacy in a hostel dorm, the lively atmosphere often cultivates a social setting, creating fantastic opportunities to build new connections. It's worth noting that many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher cost than dorms, along with additional perks like kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are computed from available hostel data shared by HostelWorld.

Eastern France Itinerary

Lyon is a beautiful city with a long history. It has one of Europe's best old towns, which climbs the hills above the River Saône and is filled with character. There are many traditional restaurants where you can try the local cuisine. The city is also known for its Marionette puppets and there is a museum as well as places to watch a production.

Lyon brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for families and backpackers because of everything available.

For foodies, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.

Lyon has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.

What to See in Lyon

How to spend 2 days in lyon.

Lyon is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

The culinary scene in Lyon is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.

Lyon is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.

The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.

Lyon is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.

The public transit in Lyon is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.

More Activities

Lyon offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

3h Lyon Vegan Food Tour

Discovering vieux-lyon.

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Lyon, see The Best Wine Tours and Tastings around Lyon , The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Lyon , The Best Cheap Walking Tours Around Lyon , and The Best Bike Tours in Lyon .

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Lyon average around $137 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Lyon here .

When it comes to accommodations in Lyon, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $92, calculated from the data of 203 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Lyon here .

Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery

La tour rose.

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Lyon offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $28. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Lyon .

If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Lyon to Beaune .

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Lyon to Beaune, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here .

Beaune is a beautiful walled town in the middle of Burgundy. It's a popular wine making destination where you can sip French wines and explore vineyards. There are cobblestone streets in town and wandering walks through the countryside outside of town. The town also offers many culinary experiences such as cooking classes and winetasting.

Beaune brings plenty of visitors because it has museums, nightlife, and delicious food. It's also a great destination for couples and families because of everything available.

Beaune has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.

What to See in Beaune

How to spend 2 days in beaune.

The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The old town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.

The culinary scene in Beaune is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this town's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.

Beaune is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.

Don't miss the Surrounding Vineyards during your trip to Beaune, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. You'll find bars and pubs as well as many places to sip French wine and enjoy the evening.

The public transit in Beaune is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the town quite easily and affordably. While you can walk around the historic center, it's possible to take a bus if you're traveling further.

Beaune offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

Private Guided Sidecar Tour in Burgundy from Meursault

Truffle cavage demonstration, at the table with louis de funès expo and wine tasting in beaune.

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Beaune, see The Best Burgundy Wine Tours Around Beaune , The Hospices de Beaune , Basilique Notre-Dame de Beaune , and Marché aux Vins .

Beaune Costs

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Beaune average around $184 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Beaune here .

When it comes to accommodations in Beaune, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $119, calculated from the data of 59 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Beaune here .

Abbaye de Maizieres

Chateau de challanges.

If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Beaune to Dijon .

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Beaune to Dijon, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here .

Dijon is the capital of Burgundy. The city has long been a destination for foodies and local favorites include escargot, wines, and, of course, mustard. While you're in the area you can enjoy tours of the nearby vineyards or exploring the stunning architecture.

Dijon brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for families and backpackers because of everything available.

What to See in Dijon

How to spend 2 days in dijon.

Don't miss the Ducal Palace during your trip to Dijon, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.

The delicious food of Dijon is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. It is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.

Public transit in Dijon is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.

Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Dijon a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.

This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.

Dijon offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

Burgundy Wines Masterclass in Dijon

Cheese and wine pairing 1-hour session in dijon, pinot noir masterclass - wine tasting in dijon.

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Dijon, see The Best Wine Tours in Dijon and Burgundy , The Dijon Central Market Hall , The Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon , and Arquebuse Botanical Garden .

Dijon Costs

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Dijon average around $169 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Dijon here .

When it comes to accommodations in Dijon, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $82, calculated from the data of 72 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Dijon here .

Hotel Oceania Le Jura Dijon

La cour berbisey - les collectionneurs.

If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Dijon to Auxerre .

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Dijon to Auxerre, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here .

Auxerre is an often overlooked town in Burgundy that is both a commercial and industrial hub for the area. You'll find great wine as well as several beautiful historical buildings.

Auxerre brings plenty of visitors because it has museums. It's also a great destination for families because of everything available.

What to See in Auxerre

How to spend 1 day in auxerre.

You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.

Public transit in Auxerre is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the town quite easily. There are buses around town.

Auxerre offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.

Touristic highlights of Auxerre a Private half day tour (4 Hours) with a local

Us and french revolution with general lafayette, paris data esim 0.5gb daily to 50gb 30days.

If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Auxerre, see The Best Wine Tours in Auxerre , The Abbaye Saint-Germain d'Auxerre , The Clock Tower of Auxerre , and Auxerre Cathedral .

Auxerre Costs

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Auxerre average around $123 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Auxerre here .

When it comes to accommodations in Auxerre, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $87, calculated from the data of 10 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Auxerre here .

Hotel Les Marechaux

B&b le relais des saints peres, final transportation.

As this is the end of this itinerary, you could make your way back to Lyon, or head north to Paris which will probably offer more transportation options.

So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your seven-day trip in Eastern France, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Hunawihr town in fall Tristan Vuano - ADT Alsace

The Best of Eastern France

This itinerary takes you to Eastern France from North to South. After spending a few days in Paris, you will enjoy the Alsace region on the German border and then drive your way south all the way to Provence. 

The best itinerary to discover l'Est de la France !

The Perfect Trip Through France With France Just For You Emilie interviewed us and designed a perfect trip from Paris through the Loire Valley and Normandy, back to Paris, to …

The Perfect Trip Through France With France Just For You Emilie interviewed us and designed a perfect trip from Paris through the Loire Valley and Normandy, back to Paris, to celebrate my husband's 70th birthday. Every detail was perfect and it was easy to get around. The places she selected for us to stay were simply lovely with wonderful hosts and beautiful gardens, and the pace of the trip was just right. We celebrated on a private wooden boat on the Seine with a wine expert, swam in a pool on the lawn of a chateau, walked with peacocks, and enjoyed a breathtaking view of the chalk cliffs in Etretat. Beautiful breakfasts were served each morning on location and we had the opportunity to meet new and interesting people from around the world. We can't imagine ever traveling through France again without France Just for You!

Your accommodations

Step by step

Paris, oh paris .

• Start your trip living the Parisian life for 3 nights. Comfortably accommodated in a  charming 4* boutique-hotel in the Saint Germain disctrict , you will discover the French capital city’s must sees and hidden beauties.
• Being based  less than 10  minute walk to Notre Dame Cathedral , you can explore Paris by foot, by boat or using public transportation with different and unique itineraries we have prepared for you. We also recommend our favorite restaurants and boulangeries in different districts of the capital city so you’ll know where to take a break.
• To get oriented in Paris, we plan for you to  follow a private Parisian guide for a half-day . We will craft your itinerary with Raf based on what you already know and want to discover. It may also include museums if you wish.

Alsace's lovely towns & vineyards

• Your next step is in Alsace is for 4 nights in a 4* Boutique-Hotel in the very center of Colmar in the little Venice District , walking distance to all bar, shops and restaurants. This hotel is in a 16th century building which was renovated mixing new and old materials - resulting as a charming and cozy ambiance. 
• Discover the gorgeous town of  Colmar , its canal maybe on a barge tour and enjoy a meal in a typical Winstub with a nice beer. 
• Another day,  drive along the Wine Road , stop in some of the most beautiful villages of France with their typical  colorful half-timbered houses  and the stork nests . . . enjoy the Alsatian wines and the great views over the Vosges foothills. 
• Alsace has also a very rich history : we include cut-the-line tickets to the  Haut-Koenigsbourg castle  which dates from the Middle Ages and was rebuilt entirely in the early 20th century. This is a fascinating visit. 

Burgundy from Beaune

• For 2 nights, you will reside 2 minutes on foot from the famous  Hospices , right next to Beaune's ramparts, in a old toll house dating from the Middle Ages when people had to pay to enter the city, which has been tastefully restored.
• Enjoy being able to walk everywhere while staying in this quiet B&B nestled in a cool garden. We'll tell you where to go for the  best wine tasting in Beaune . After that, you can savor a traditional Burgundy meal or buy a picnic at the market to enjoy in the nearby park.
• To discover the Burgundy vineyard trails, we plan for you to  spend an afternoon on a bike to discover Burgundy wines . You will make several stops on the way to taste wine at smaller wineries.

The city of Lyon

• Spend 2 nights in the very heart of Lyon, in a charming privately owned Boutique-Hotel , located on a quiet street of the most lively part of the city. Laurent and his team take great care of their guests and are always happy to give advice and share tips. 
• Discover Lyon's amazing history, enjoy quality design shops and trendy restaurants . Gourmet travelers may even enjoy treating themselves to a star-rated Michelin restaurant or two . . . there are so many options in Lyon !
• We include home-crafted  walking itineraries of the different districts so you will make the most of your stay and enjoy the different facets of the 3rd largest city in France. 
• On the 12 th  day, settle in your central base camp to  explore Provence . Stay for 4 nights in a welcoming Provencal stone house, a former convent, perfectly located between Avignon and the Luberon . You will stay in a large room and at night, relax in the garden, by the pool or meeting with fellow travelers around the barbecue, with a glass of wine. 
• You will enjoy  hilltop villages on market day , walking in the footsteps of  famous painters  such as Cézanne or Picasso. We will also tell you about some  hidden jewels,  off the beaten track, where you will stroll around charming streets or have a drink at a provencal café with locals. We can also recommend a farmer’s market and wine cellar for each day of the week!
• Speaking of gastronomy, let a local man who was born and raised in Avignon, take you on a  walking tour to discover the Provençal food specialties -  a great way to get acquainted with the local culture, from the Pompe à l’huile to the thyme chocolates.
• If you are interested in history, don’t miss the  Roman ruins at Arles, Orange and the Pont du Gard.  We will also take you to smaller sites – less famous and much quieter.

Activities included

Paris Private Walking Tour

For a half-day, follow a private guide in the heart of Paris to get oriented and learn more about the history, art, culture or architecture. We will taylor make your program based on your wishes. 

Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle

Enjoy the visit of the Haut-Koenisbourg fortress with cut-the-line tickets to avoid waiting. This is a Middleages marvel rebuilt in the early 20th century.

Burgundy Wine & Bike Tour

Spend an afternoon with a guide who will take you wine tasting in Côte de Beaune famous vineyards...and wineries of course.

Gourmet Experience in Provence

Let a passionate who was born and raised in Provence, take you to his best addresses in the old city to discover Provence food specialties. 

Booking process

• Share your wishes with us
• We will interact with you to finalize the itinerary
• Get a detailed Travel Plan & Quote
• Book your trip
• Enjoy the real France!

Let us craft your perfect Travel Plan

Get your Free Quote

Customize this tour

We are glad to customize this itinerary to include additionnal night stays, extra activities or any specific request you have.

YOUR Guide Book

100% customized to your itinerary, it is the perfect tool before, during & after your trip.

Explore the French regions

Alexandre Lamoureux - CRT Bretagne

Riquewihr lovely town M.Schampion - CDT Alsace

Lille Main Square Laurent Ghesquière - OTCL Lille

Lille & North

Lyon along the Saône river T.Deschamps - OT Lyon

Amiens Cathedral Somme Tourisme - F. Leonardi

Verzenay Champagne vineyards E.Vidal - ADT Marne

The Meuse river in Verdun Verdun Tourisme

French Basque Country Sceneries CDT Pays Basque

Basque Country

Tours of Carcassonne - fortress ADT Aude

Carcassonne

Half Timbered Farms in the Normandy Hinterland - Normandy Tours Calvados Tourisme

Dentelles - 7 days in Provence - Provence tours Alain Hocquel - CDT Vaucluse

tours of Dordogne region Dordogne Valley

Visit Chateau de l'Islette - Loire Valley driving tours Chateau de l'Islette

Loire Valley

Paris tours Paris Tourism Office - Amélie Dupont

Le Miroir d'eau - self drive tours Bordeaux France - Bordeaux tours Christophe Bouthé - OT Bordeaux

Burgundy wines Alain Doiré

Eze perched village France Just For You

French Riviera

Our travelers’ reviews.

An experience OF France, not just a trip TO France. For over 30 years my wife has dreamed of visiting the Loire region of France. Emilie and Laura not only made this a reality, they made it truly a dream trip. The multi-hundred page guidebook not only guided our daily itinerary, it prepared us for what we needed to know for a successful self-guided …

An experience OF France, not just a trip TO France.

For over 30 years my wife has dreamed of visiting the Loire region of France. Emilie and Laura not only made this a reality, they made it truly a dream trip.

The multi-hundred page guidebook not only guided our daily itinerary, it prepared us for what we needed to know for a successful self-guided tour throughout the region. This was invaluable, as we learned many of the cultural things we needed to know to most fully participate in the experience of French life.

And to speak of the itinerary... WOW! The choices and details, from how to see Chenonceau from every angle, to the private vineyard tour and wine tasting, to the little-known liqueur distillery, to the personal touches based on our wishes. Even now, as we look back at our pictures and think on our memories, it seems a dream. Friends, some of whom had visited France, marveled at our pictures and stories.

We can't wait for our next experience of France. And we look forward to Emilie and Laura being our guides.

I can't say enough about how much we loved working with Emily and Laura. I am a wine geek and they put together a full day private tour of Burgundy (with a fantastic guide) and a half day visit and basket lunch at a wonderful winery in Provence. In addition there was a private half day walking tour of Paris and a private tour of the Palais des …

I can't say enough about how much we loved working with Emily and Laura. I am a wine geek and they put together a full day private tour of Burgundy (with a fantastic guide) and a half day visit and basket lunch at a wonderful winery in Provence. In addition there was a private half day walking tour of Paris and a private tour of the Palais des Papes in Avignon. The personalized guide book that they put together for us was fantastic and if anything had too many suggestions of things to do. Every thing was taken care of; we never had to lift a finger. It was well worth what we paid and I would highly recommend them to anyone planning on visiting France.

I was very nervous to visit a country that I have never learned the language spoken so that is the reason I wanted someone to help me plan this trip with my children. Emilie was wonderful. The B&Bs that she booked were some of the very best places I have ever stayed and I have traveled quite a bit. The cell phone that we were given was priceless …

I was very nervous to visit a country that I have never learned the language spoken so that is the reason I wanted someone to help me plan this trip with my children. Emilie was wonderful. The B&Bs that she booked were some of the very best places I have ever stayed and I have traveled quite a bit. The cell phone that we were given was priceless for getting around, the language barrier and checking in with others back home. I would recommended using Emilie to everyone. It was fantastic. A trip of a lifetime with my children who are 18 and 25.

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20+ Hidden Gems & Best Kept Secrets of Eastern France

Last Updated on 23rd November 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

This post may contain affiliate links. Please check out my  privacy policy  and  disclosure  for more information.

Travel in the East of France and you’ll soon discover timber-framed towns, long-forgotten cities, countless Roman ruins, and a gourmet scene that’s enough to make any foodie drool. Here are the best-kept secrets of Eastern France !

Between bustling Paris, the wild and rugged coastline of Brittany, and the glittering Azure Blue Sea of the South, Eastern France often misses out on much of the press it so rightly deserves in lieu of its better-known and significantly more popular neighbours.

Why you must visit Eastern France

#1 the underrated city of metz, #2 dole, the town of louis pasteur, #3 the pastel-hued city of mâcon, #4 the mountain resort of châtel, #5 evian-les-bains, home of evian water, #6 the roman city of vienne, #7 the unesco citadel of besançon, #8 varennes and the flight of louis xvi, #9 hostellerie du château des monthairons , #10 abbey of st germanus in auxerre, #11 the timber-framed city of chalon-sur-saône, #12 follow in the footsteps of joan of arc, #13 reims underground tunnels, #14 discover the many hidden gems of dijon, #15 the picturesque town of eguisheim, #16 niedermorschwihr, #17 the secret history of strasbourg, #18 kaysersberg, #19 dragées braquier factory, #20 discover the secret side of lyon, #21 faux de verzy, map of the best places to visit in eastern france, things to know before visiting the east of france, enjoyed reading about the best kept secrets of eastern france pin it now, read it again later:.

Historically, the region is made up of five distinct regions. Though these have since been swallowed up by much larger administrative areas, each region retains its own distinctive cultural and historical feel.

Filled with varying architectural styles, unique foodstuffs, and in some cases, even their own language, the regions are Alsace, Champagne-Ardenne , Franche-Comté, Lorraine , and the Rhône-Alpes. Some of the best reasons to visit the East of France include getting to see a side of l’Hexagone that’s a little off the beaten track.

From cities where few tourists venture into to centuries-old abbeys where the relics of Saints are now alleged to lie, there’s something for every interest when it comes to this little parcel of Europe.

And of course, there is perhaps no wine in the world quite as famous as the rich reds of Burgundy. After all, the most expensive wine in the world can be found along the UNESCO Route des Grands Crus.

Best places to visit in the East of France

Just a half-hour drive from the small and landlocked country of Luxembourg, the stunning settlement of Metz is a highly underrated city with plenty to do and even more to see.

Situated at the confluence of the River Moselle and the River Seille, some of the best things to do in Metz include wandering around the Centre-Pompidou Metz art museum and admiring the 13th-century Porte des Allemands.

If you’re looking for an off the beaten tourist track town with plenty of history, then you should stop your search now. Dole is a charming city built alongside the River Doubs in the Jura region.

Constructed around the Collégiale Notre-Dame de Dole , there’s a free museum fill of Roman artefacts and many a cobbled lane worth strolling along. Situated somewhere on the train line between the mustard city of Dijon and the greenest city in France, Besançon, Dole also happens to be the birthplace of Louis Pasteur ,

Pasteur is the man who discovered the rabies vaccination and pasteurisation, among other things. While in Dole, be sure not to miss out on other French attractions such as the hospital turned library (Hôtel Dieu de Dole) and the pretty walkway along Canal des Tanneurs.

With a Provençal feel and plenty of wonderful weather to match, the Southern Burgundy city of Mâcon is a must-see on any visit to Bourgogne, especially so if you’re looking to experience the Beaujolais wine region.

Highlights of this Saône side city, which is known as Mascon in English, include the ruins of the once impressive Old Cathedral of Saint Vincent and the timber-framed oldest house in the city.

If you’re visiting in the spring, then plenty of beautiful cherry blossom can be found in a car park close to the Musée des Ursulines, a town museum housed within a former convent.

And if you’re looking for an extra luxe stay during your time in Eastern France (at a very reasonable rate) , then I highly recommend booking a room at the Panorama 360 . The four-star hotel even has a sky bar where you can sip on a kir while watching the sun go down.

Less frequented by international tourists than many other ski resorts in France, Châtel is not only a winter destination but also a well-sought out summer spot for adventure activities such as hiking and mountain biking.

One of many resorts along the Portes du Soleil complex, a stretch that encompasses some 650 kilometres of ski trail. While in the area, be sure to visit the beautiful Saint-Laurent Church, as well as sample locally made Abondance Cheese .

Situated on the border with Switzerland and quite literally located on the ever-glittering Lake Geneva, Evian-Les-Bains has been a lakeside getaway for the French since at least the 19th-century.

Main attractions of Evian-Les-Bains include the Palais Lumiere (which houses Picasso artwork) and sampling Evian water at source from the Source Cachat. In the winter, the town is close to nearby mountains for skiing.

Today, the town is most synonymous with Evian bottled water, though the city also has plenty of world-famous spas thanks to the alleged special properties of the mineral water found in the area. If you have a little more time while in the area, be sure to catch the ferry to the other side of the lake so as to explore the Swiss city of Lausanne .

Of course, everyone has heard of Lyon, the third-largest city in France, but not everyone has heard of the pretty city of Vienne , the other Roman city of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

Once known as ‘Vienna’ and one of the most important cities in Roman Gaul, today Vienne is a small city characterised by its many Roman ruins. One particular of the city by the River Rhône includes a Roman Theatre that once seated some 10,000 people.

Elsewhere in Vienne, the magnificently preserved Temple of Augustus, an ancient place of worship that only survived thanks to its transformation into a church many centuries ago.

While in the area, there’s also breathtaking views of the Château de la Bâtie, as well as the Museum and archaeological site of Saint-Romain-en-Gal.

Dubbed France’s ‘greenest city,’ Besançon also happens to be the birthplace of Victor Hugo . There’s even a museum dedicated to the world-famous author on the very same square where the developers of the cinema, the Lumiere brothers, were born.

However, with this being said, it’s well worth noting that Hugo actually only lived in Besançon for six weeks before leaving, never to return again! Close to the border with Switzerland, you could easily spend a long weekend meandering the city’s many quays.

Other highlights of Besançon include exploring the Roman ruins, and admiring the impressive astronomical clock of Besançon’s cathedral. And for the history buffs, there are even the UNESCO Vauban fortifications, which merit half a day of exploration in their own right and date back to the 17th-century.

What you may well not know about North Eastern France is that there’s plenty of Renaissance history to unpack within the region. For example, somewhere in a rural region of Meuse, the small village of  Varennes-en-Argonne (also known simply as Varennes) is where Louis XVI was captured together with Marie-Antoinette following his attempted escape from France during the French Revolution.

I must admit that my first stay in a French Château truly was one of those ‘pinch me moments’ that you can’t quite express with words. And so, if you’re looking for a fairytale French château stay in Eastern France, then you simply must book a stay in Hostellerie du Château des Monthairons .

Located in several dozen acres and with no less than two chapels on-site(!!), the hotel is laid-back, warm, and friendly. While the rooms are a little dated in their decor, the setting itself is simply beautiful, not to mention that the food on offer for dinner and breakfast is simply delicious.

Though the city of Auxerre is undoubtedly best known for its imposing clock tower , there’s much more to this compact city than meets the eye. Characterised by its three impressive churches (an Abbey, a Cathedral, and a Church) , Auxerre lies alongside the River Yonne and is filled with timber-framed houses and cobbled lanes.

Truth be told, the most important ecclesiastical building in the city is the Abbey of Saint Germanus, a building named for a bishop of the city in Late Antiquity. If you speak French and you have some spare time, then be sure to embark on a guided tour of the Abbey and its associated buildings.

Deep in detail, this 1.5 tour will show you hidden gems of the Abbey, including parts of the Merovingian cathedral and 9th-century beautifully preserved frescoes. For more information about this beautiful place to visit in Eastern France, check out our guide to the best things to do in Auxerre.

When you imagine Burgundy (or Bourgogne as it is so-called in French) , you likely picture the Hôtel Dieu of Beaune or the Cathedral of Dijon. But what you may not know is that there also plenty of other cities in the region that have just as much to offer the visitor in the form of museums, beautiful views, and plenty of history.

Chalon-sur-Saône is set across mainland France and a small island in the centre of the River Saône. Of particular note is a series of statues and museums dedicated to Nicéphore Niépce, the man who took the earliest surviving photograph . Elsewhere in the city, the cathedral square is home to many a timber-framed house and is the perfect spot to stop off for a coffee break.

Domremy-la-Pucelle is alleged to be the birthplace of Joan of Arc and there are many small towns and cities where Jeanne d’Arc is alleged to have attended services, marched through, or simply rested within during her travels through France during the 15th-century.

And when it comes to Eastern France, several cities display plaques, denoting that d’Arc once passed through. Among these towns are Auxerre, Sens, and the medieval city of Provins. Today, if you want to follow in the French heroine’s footsteps now, here’s a guide to Joan of Arc in France .

Though Reims may be most famous as being the capital city of Champagne , what many visitors to the city don’t know is that there is a plethora of history to the city that predates even the invention of the bubbly French tipple (even though that’s many visitors’ main reason for frequenting the region) .

You see, Reims was an important city during the Roman era, and the chalky ground beneath the topsoil was perfect for mining.

While the Romans would have quarried the chalks, centuries later people realised that the underground tunnels that ensued as a result of the mining were perfect for storage, particularly that of Champagne.

Today, the tunnels are UNESCO world heritage listed and you can even often visit them for yourself should you opt to take a Champagne House tour.

Of course, between a library overlooking Reims Cathedral and hidden churches across the city, Reims also has plenty of other secrets to uncover. Check here for the best-kept secrets of Reims .

Once upon a time, Dijon was the French capital city of mustard. And while there are no houses producing the piquant sauce within the city itself, there remains ample opportunity to go mustard tasting in Dijon .

Otherwise, while the Burgundy settlement is by no means a hidden gem, there are still plenty of secret spots in Dijon that you’ll want to discover for yourself on your next trip to Bourgogne.

For example, did you know that Gustave Eiffel was born in the city? Or that there’s a café bookshop in the very heart of town? And so, if you’re looking to escape the crowds of Paris and don’t wish to stay for too long in Beaune, then I highly recommend heading to Dijon next time you’re in Eastern France!

Though some of the biggest cities in the Alsace Region of France are Strasbourg and Mulhouse, followed closely by the often underrated city of Colmar , there are plenty more smaller and off the beaten path towns and villages worth discovering, if only you know where to look.

For example, the charming French settlement of Eguisheim is to be found just a fifteen minute drive from Colmar and is a picturesque timer-framed throwback to centuries gone by.

Surrounded by rolling hills and lush green hills, Eguisheim is located on the Alsace wine route and is best-known for the three castles of Eguinsheim, a set of ruinous sandstone fortifications which date all the way back to 1006!

One of the best-kept secrets of the Alsace region in Eastern France is easily the tiny village of Niedermorschwih r. Characterised by its tiny nature and surrounded by swathes of vineyards (the Alsace is one of the largest wine-producing regions in l’Hexagone) , the town has a selection of Alsace taverns serving a selection of regional food, as well as plenty of pretty timber-framed houses!

Of all the secrets of Eastern France, this matchbox-sized settlement is one of my favourites! Though the charm of this little village is actually its beautiful façades (there is little by way of tourist attractions), one of the most unique features of Niedermorschwihr is its church which boasts a crooked spire.

Of course, the capital city of the Alsace region, i.e. Strasbourg, is by no means a secret! However, what many people don’t know about is one of the most surprising (and tragic) episodes in the settlement’s long history. After all, during the 16th-century, the Strasbourg Dancing Plague overtook the city and resulted in the deaths of dozens of local residents.

One of the most charming and underrated towns of the Alsace is that of Kaysersberg, which is part of the wider commune of Kaysersberg Vignoble. The town lies along the Alsatian wine route and is full of timber-framed houses, with the hill it is set against being crowned with the ruins of an old castle.

The town is best-seen in the winter when the wonderful Christmas market takes place. For more inspiration, check out our guide to Kaysersberg at Christmas .

The  sweet factory of Braquier  makes the sweet treat that put the city of Verdun on the French foodie cultural map. The factory itself is a short drive out of town and can be visited for free.  Find more details here.

The Dragée is typically an almond coated in a hard candy shell and it was invented in an apothecary in Verdun at some point in the middle ages. Today, the sweet is often gifted at weddings, christenings, and communions.

Lyon can be found in Eastern France and is one of the largest cities that the country has to offer. Not far from the foothills of the Alps and the wine region of Burgundy,  Lyon  also happens to be a great base from which to base yourself to take  trips to the wider region .

Otherwise, if you’re short on time and want to discover the best that the city has to offer, be sure to check out our guide to spending  one day in Lyon. It’s also worth noting that, despite a vast city, Lyon also has plenty of hidden gems worth discovering.

One of the most unusual and unique things to do in the historic French region of Champagne is to visit the Faux de Verzy  (forest of Verzy) , an enchanting and magical forest that boasts just under a thousand unique dwarf beech trees.

A faux is a dwarf beech tree  (fau being the old French word for beech and faux being the plural) . There are also dwarf oak trees and dwarf chesnut trees in the forest. A visit to the forest is free and it is truly remarkable to see such unique trees all in the same place.

Nearly all the major cities and towns found within the region can be reached by either train or bus. You don’t need to generally book tickets in advance and train travel is, for the most part, inexpensive.

However, due to the more rural location of many of these destinations, accommodation is more limited and is often more expensive. Check here for accommodation in South-East France and here for accommodation in Franche-Comté .

Sophie Nadeau is a full time travel writer and photographer focused on cultural experiences in Europe and beyond. When she's not chasing after the sunset (or cute dogs she sees on her travels) she can be found reading, playing video games, and going on long hikes with her husband.

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Road Trip Alsace – Itinerary & Map

Article written by Elisa This article may contain compensated links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

Here’s the Ultimate Alsace Road Trip

The historic region of  Alsace , today part of the region of  Grand Est   in  Eastern France , is a land rich in natural wonders, picturesque small towns, and good wines. The Alsatians are amicable and welcoming people, the  Alsace Christmas Markets  are the best in France, and the Alsace food is excellent too!

The best way to explore the region of Alsace is by car. This  Alsace Road Trip   from Mulhouse to Strasbourg  (or vice-versa) covers part of the  Alsace Wine Region , but it also visits other interesting sites near this route.

This road trip Alsace itinerary takes seven days, and it is a good itinerary for those who love history, sightseeing, outdoor activities, and wine.

This Alsace trip by car is one of the best road trips in France . Read more about road-tripping in France:

Alsace Road Trip Overview

• Start: Mulhouse
• Finish: Strasbourg
• Duration: 7 days
• Suggested route: Mulhouse – Colmar – Strasbourg
• Total distance: 155Km, 2,5 hours drive in total
• Region covered: Grand Est
• Best for: history, sightseeing, nature, small towns, food & wine

Road Trip Alsace Map

Click here to see this Road Trip Alsace Map on Google

Road Trip Alsace Itinerary

This Alsace road trip starts from  Mulhouse , the second most important city in Alsace. If you don’t have a car, you can travel to Mulhouse by train and then rent one in Mulhouse (click here for our best tips for renting a car in France ). The chances are that car rental in Mulhouse is cheaper than in Paris, plus you avoid the hassle of driving from Paris or any other city to the east.

Click here to rent your car in Mulhouse

Day 0 | Arrival in Mulhouse

Arrive in Mulhouse the day before the start of this Alsace road trip. For your night in Mulhouse, Hotel Bristol is comfortable, beautiful, and very central.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Bristol

Day 1 | Mulhouse – Colmar

Morning in Mulhouse

The first day of this road trip Alsace starts by exploring the city of Mulhouse . After a good breakfast with no rush, spend the morning visiting the Old Town. Mulhouse has a beautiful central square ( Place de la Réunion ) dominated by the Temple St. Etienne and the Town Hall. The surrounding streets are also interesting to explore too.

Afternoon at La Cité de l’Automobile

Mulhouse’s main attractions are the Automobile Museum ( Cité de l’Automobile ) and the Railway Museum ( Cité du Train ). These two top museums reflect the history of the city, which is strongly influenced by industry.

If there’s time to visit only one museum in Mulhouse, we recommend La  Cité de l’Automobile.  Also known as Musée National de l’Automobile , this fantastic museum is built around the Schlumpf collection of classic automobiles.

The Schlumpf brothers were two businessmen with a passion for cars living in Mulhouse. Their collection, located in one of their former factories, contains the largest and most comprehensive collection of  Bugatti cars  in the world. The museum displays not only some of the very first Bugatti cars but also racing cars and luxury cars. It is amazing!

TIP: This museum is huge! When you arrive, it is a good idea to take the free little train (with a commentary), which meanders around the museum to get an overview of the collection and the different sections.

The  Cité du Train  is an excellent museum to visit too. The Cité du Train is the biggest train museum in Europe, and it displays more than 100 French trains from all periods.

Evening and Night in Colmar

After visiting the museum of your choice in Mulhouse, drive to Colmar, where you will spend three nights. For your stay in Colmar, we recommend the  Hotel Le Colombier , a charming property located in the district of Little Venice. This hotel has spacious and stylish rooms, a bar, and a garden in which to relax.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Le Colombier

Day 2 | Colmar 

Day 2 of this Alsace road trip is dedicated to visiting Colmar. Located in the center of Alsace, between Strasbourg and Mulhouse, the oh-so-pretty  Colmar  is one of the must-stops of any Alsace itinerary. This medium-sized city is frequently voted as one of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and it has many monuments and typical neighborhoods.

You are going to love walking around Colmar. The Old Town of Colmar is very picturesque, with half-timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, and quaint canals. Don’t miss La Petite Venise , Colmar’s most picturesque neighborhood built along the main canal.

In Colmar, you have one of the best museums in the region, the  Unterlinden Museum . Once a monastery, it is now filled with masterpieces of art from the Middle Ages to Modern Art.

A signposted walking trail leads visitors in a 6.1km loop around the city (estimated time: 2.5 hrs). The route is outlined on the free Colmar Old Town Map from the tourist office, or follow the golden triangles along the way (embossed with Lady Liberty) to the top Colmar sights.

The list of fun things to see and do in Colmar includes:

• The Unterlinden Museum
• The Bartholdi Museum
• The Little Venice
• The Food Market (consider having lunch inside for a super local experience)
• The Toy Museum
• The Choco Story Colmar

FUN FACT: Artist  Auguste Bartholdi  – The man who created the Statue of Liberty – was born in Colmar in 1834. As a Colmar claim-to-fame, Lady Liberty appears throughout the city.

Day 3 | Colmar – Eguisheim – Colmar

Morning in Eguisheim

From Colmar, consider a half-day or a day trip to Eguisheim, located just out of Colmar. Eguisheim is one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace , and it is a wonder. Eguisheim is only a 10-minute drive from Colmar, and some people like to take this excursion to Eguisheim by bike.

Eguisheim   has a unique layout, where the streets are arranged in concentric circles around the Eguisheim Castle. Wander around the narrow cobbled streets, flanked by the beautiful architecture of half-timbered houses with balconies and windows full of flowers. Don’t miss the central square with its magnificent stone fountain and the colorful Saint Leo Chapel inside.

One of the best things to do in Eiguisheim is to visit one of the many cellars in the Old Town , where you can learn more about the local grape varieties and do some tastings. After some research, we recommend the wines from Eichberg and Pfersigberg , which reveal aromas of fruit, honey, and wood.

Afternoon Hike Up to the Three Towers

The Three Castles   on the Schlossberg Hill (591m) is a beautiful trail to walk, and it starts from Eguisheim. The Castles were built during the 11th and 12th centuries by three families of the region. All three Castles were destroyed in 1466 during the War of the Six Oboles.

The ruins of the Castles per se are nothing spectacular, but the hike up to the hill is beautiful and easy to walk (1.5 hr uphill). Take the trail starting at the camping site “Les Trois Chateaux” in Eguisheim. On the way, you will cross vineyards, the small town of Husseren-Les-Châteaux, and a bit of forest at the end of the hike.

Moreover, this path offers an exceptional panorama of the whole valley and its three Castles. The views from the top of the hill are also great.

Day 4 | Kaysersberg – Riquewihr

Morning in Kaysersberg

Day 4 of this Alsace itinerary by car explores two of the prettiest Alsace villages. From Colmar, drive to  Kaysersberg Vignoble , a small town nestled at the entrance of a Vosges Valley, only a few kilometers from Ribeauvillé and Riquewihr. Kaysersberg is built next to the River Weiss, which flows between the houses.

You are going to love Kaysersberg, with its beautiful historic center, its many half-timbered houses from the 15th – 16th centuries, and a unique fortified bridge built in 1514 in pink sandstone from the Vosges. Kaysersberg means “the Emperor’s mountain,” and the ruins of the imperial castle that dominates the city have an incredible charm.

TIP: don’t miss the stone decoration on houses and public buildings and the old shop signs.

Afternoon in Riquewihr

From Kaysersberg, drive to  Riquewihr , another picturesque town where you will spend one night. For your stay in Riquewihr, book the charming  Hotel à l’Oriel , located in the heart of the Old Town. The hotel proposes individually decorated beautiful traditional rooms, a good breakfast, and private parking.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel à l’Oriel

If you only have time to visit one village in Alsace,  Riquewihr has everything to fall in love with it. This fortified village, surrounded by vineyards and listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, was built in the 16th century, and it is as if time has slowed down in this town.

Apart from its beautiful half-timbered houses and picturesque alleys, Riquewihr has no less than 40 classified Historical Monuments. Follow the town’s walls and visit the village’s three defense towers, some of the oldest fortifications here. The famous Thieves’ Tower was the former prison of Riquewihr.

At the entrance of Riquewihr, you will find several wine producers offering wine tastings and their best bottles of Alsace wine. We bought a couple of bottles of muscat and crémant at Domaine Dopff au Moulin (2 Avenue Jacques Preiss, Riquewihr). Then, within the walls, you will find many wine shops.

Day 5 | Riquewihr – Strasbourg

Morning at Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg

Day 5 of this road trip Alsace starts with a visit to Château du Haut Koenigsbourg , one of the most fascinating castles in France . This is a fortified castle built in the 12th century but deeply transformed over the centuries. It dominates the Alsatian Plain from the Buntsandstein Rock.

The Hohenstaufen family built the castle as part of a defense line to reinforce their power in Alsace. Over the centuries, the castle was disputed by different families and nations until it was severely damaged during the Thirty Years’ War and was subsequently abandoned.

In the 20th century, the castle went through an extensive restoration under the direct supervision of the German Kaiser William II, who visited the works regularly. For the Kaiser, this castle marked the western boundary of the German Empire.

Visit the castle inside (ask at the ticket control for the free guided tours), and if you have time, explore a bit of the surrounding forest.

Afternoon at Mont Sainte-Odile

After visiting the Château, drive to Mont Saint-Odile , in the heart of the Vosges. The mountain (764 m) is named after Saint-Odile, the Saint Patron of Alsace, and it has a monastery/convent, the Abbey of Hohenburg .

Drive to the summit of Mont Sainte-Odile to take in the views (and perhaps a little prayer). You can also visit some parts of the monastery. Before leaving, make sure to check out the Pagan Wall , a series of stone fortifications built in 1000 BC.

After visiting Mont Sainte-Odile, drive to Strasbourg, the last stop of this Alsace road trip. In Strasbourg, book two nights at the  Hotel Cathédrale , located just opposite Notre Dame de Strasbourg. Some rooms come with incredible and spectacular views over the Cathedral.

Click here to book your stay at Hotel Cathédrale

Days 6 -7 | Strasbourg

Days 6 and 7 of this Alsace itinerary explore the city of Strasbourg, so you won’t need the car. 

Strasbourg , the capital of Alsace, is also known as the Capital of Europe because of both its central location and it plays host to more than 20 European institutions. Strasbourg has an immense historical and architectural heritage, making it the wealthiest city in Alsace. Its city center, developed on the River Ill banks, not far from the Rhine River, is inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.

If you are visiting Strasbourg for the first time, we recommend this  Strasbourg itinerary for 2 days which covers the main sights and comes with some good tips.

The list of fun things to see and do in Strasbourg includes:

• Notre Dame Cathedral
• The Petite-France, a picturesque district
• The covered bridges and the barrage Vauban
• Strasbourg river cruise
• History Museum
• The European neighborhood

So, what are you waiting for? Book your Alsace road trip today!

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France Road Trip – 13 Amazing Itineraries

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Your Complete French Road Trip Planner

Ahhh, France. A country so eclectic and beguiling, it is the most visited nation on the planet . A French road trip is the best way to explore the wonderful diversity and beautiful landscapes of this country.

A road trip in France showcases the dramatic landscapes, historic cities, abundant UNESCO sites and some of the most picture-perfect villages in Europe, like no other way to travel does.

As you road trip through France, you’ll find yourself stopping regularly for Insta-worthy images, and along the way you’ll find fantastic adventures to try like chateaux hunting, hiking in some of Europe’s highest peaks, kayaking and wild swimming in crystal clear rivers, and sampling the wonderful gastronomy across the country.

In this France travel guide you’ll find a round-up of all the best road trips in France by region, with France travel tips and information to help you plan and prepare. Come with us as we share our unmissable French road trip itineraries.

Getting to France

Flying in and opting rent a car in France is a great choice, especially as France has so many easily accessible international airports, the perfect starting point for many of our road trip itineraries.

You can fly in to Paris, Lyon, Marseille, Nice, Toulouse, Bordeaux and many other French cities to start your trip. We recommend booking your flights through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Driving to France from UK

If you’re planning to drive to from the UK to France , then you’ll find everything you need to know, including the best, fastest and cheapest routes, as well as driving tips, in our driving to France from UK guide .

Are you planning to rent a car in France? As one of the largest car hire aggregator companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best rental prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Italy . We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

Use the Park4Night app to find overnight spots and campsites, and sleep on a high mountain pass, next to a beautiful lake, or in a wildflower meadow.

Best Time to Take a French Road Trip

December to february.

The winter months can be very cold throughout France, even in the south of the country and rain is quite common at this time of year.  But, the roads and cities will be quiet and less crowded, although not all attractions will be open.

March to May

Spring is a wonderful time to visit France, with temperatures warming up across the country. Markets increase in size, restaurants start preparing different dishes and the countryside is glorious. You’ll still find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

June and July are busier months to roadtrip France, with perfect temperatures for camping and outdoor activities. June is probably the best month, as schools have yet to break up across Europe and the family rush to the coasts has not yet started.

August brings the French annual holiday when many businesses close for the duration. If you’re planning on road tripping in tourist areas, then this won’t affect you too much, and you’ll have perfect holiday weather.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for French road trips , especially in the south of France. The coast will be quieter but if you’re lucky, you’ll enjoy an Indian summer amongst the grape harvest and changing fall colors of the countryside.

Is this your first time visiting France? Get all the information you need in our France Travel Guide , including what to pack, the best time of year to go, getting there, and practical tips to help you have the best trip!

Road Trip France Planner by Region

France is such a diverse country, it can be hard to decide where to take a road trip, especially if you want to see the less traveled in France for a more authentic experience.

Whether you like coasts, mountains or rolling countryside, historic cities, elegant palaces, or wild landscapes, you’ll find your perfect road trip here, and there’s no dount that you’ll be ticking plenty off your France bucket list !

A road trip to France is an easy win for most Europeans and Brits, who are on the same continent, or just a hop across the English Channel.

For everyone else, Paris makes a great place to start any France road trip itinerary. Book with Skyscanner and fly in, pick up a rental car, or even a campervan, and you can be anywhere in the country within a day – that’s the beauty of a  voyage en voitre , or road trip in French!

France Road Trip Map by Region

Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes

A huge region, the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes stretches from the volcanoes and plateau of the Massif Central in the west to the highest point of the French Alps in eastern France, offering some of the best roads in France, with spectacular scenery, rugged landscapes, and historic cities.

Divided by the mighty Rhone river, and with the center of the region being the vibrant foodie city of Lyon, there is great diversity here and four distinct climates. The further south you head, the more you will notice the flora, fauna, and climate taking on a Mediterranean feel.

A UNESCO Road Trip

Lyon – clermont-ferrand – le-puy-en-valey – saint-etienne.

• Distance 370km
• Duration 7 days
• Drive Time 5 hours

Start in the fabulous city of Lyon, the capital of the Rhone region. The historic heart, Vieux-Lyon, stretches across the base of Fourviere Hill and its grand basilica.

There are lots of things to do in Lyon , eating is one of the best! As you stroll the medieval streets and iconic traboules (or hidden passageways), stop in Lyon’s traditional restaurants, known as bouchons , and get up close to Renaissance facades and buildings that boast over a thousand years of history.

Next on your Auvergne road trip is one of France’s oldest cities, Clermont-Ferrand, known for its string of volcanoes called the Chaine des Puys. The dormant volcano Puy de Dome is one of the highest and has been a tectonic hotspot on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2018.

In the city itself, don’t miss the jewel of Notre-Dame-du-Port Basilica and the highly distinctive black lava stone Gothic Cathedral.

In Le-Puy-en-Valey, visit the imposing cathedral, the silhouette of which stands proud on the slopes of Mount Anis. The building, celebrated for housing the enigmatic Black Madonna, and one of the most beautiful cloisters in Europe, is a key monument of Romanesque art.

Finally, around Saint-Etienne, a UNESCO Design City, the site at Firminy hosts Le Corbusier’s largest European work. Visit the four buildings featured on the architectural walk, including the famous Maison de la Culture, where you can trace the legacy left by modern architecture.

Not far from Lyon, pay a visit to the Tourette Convent, the last great building by Le Corbusier in France, which will be a fitting end to your UNESCO road trip.

Road trip here if you like…

• Mountains – if outdoor activities are your thing, start  hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc  from Chamonix at the foot of the country’s easternmost mountains, explore the medium-high extinct volcanoes of the Massif Central, or take a road trip on the Route des Grandes Alpes .
• Gastronomic delights – There’s  so much to do in Lyon , not only one of the most beautiful cities in France, it is the food city of this gastronomic country. Regional dishes are influenced by the mountains and tend to be hearty and wholesome. 
• Water sports – with Lake Geneva, Lake Annecy, and Lac de Bourget in the region, summer sailing, wind-surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking are on the doorstep.

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting France . We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Bourgogne-Franche-Comte

This beautiful region of France is famous for its rich history and viniculture. Sometimes abbreviated to BFC, this area is around a five to six hour drive from Calais on the A26, and just a few hours from Paris, making it a great option if you’re short on time. 

Part of this area is the old historic region of Burgundy, once the heartland of France and known for its wines, such as Beaujolais and Chablis.

BFC is sparsely populated and sees relatively little tourist footfall, making this cross-country road trip a joy for anyone looking to get off the beaten path. The route takes you through a mix of low agricultural lands to the fabulous mountains and lakes of the Jura.

RELATED POST: Off The Beaten Path France – 8 Unique Places

The Jura Route des Lacs

Dijon – marigny – thoirette.

• Distance 350km
• Duration 3-5 days
• Drive Time 3 hours

Start in the beautiful historic city of Dijon, surrounded by the Cote d’Or vineyards where over 3,000 winemakers produce their world-famous wines in the heart of ancient Burgundy.

The UNESCO old center of Dijon is packed with half-timbered medieval houses and elegant Renaissance buildings. Make sure to try the wines from the region, and Dijon’s other claim to fame, Dijon mustard.

Head south to off-the-beaten-track Marigny for the deep navy and turquoise lakes of the Jura Massif, where you can explore museums, regional crafts, and local gastronomy, as well as remote places, natural sites, and plenty of waterfalls.

You might want to get in the water too, there are twenty lakes to choose from!

• Great gastronomy  – the home of the unique Vin Jaune, Boeuf Bourguignon, Coq au Vin, Comte cheese, and Dijon mustard is a powerhouse of French cooking, particularly where the use of wine is required!
• Atmospheric historic cities – Beaune and Dijon are just two gorgeous cities in this region, packed with history, Gothic and medieval architecture with a typical French ambiance.
• Breathtaking castles – there are well over thirty well-preserved chateaux in the northern half of this region, you’ll see them literally on every bend in the road!

The rugged peninsula of western France, Bretagne, is an ideal place for a one or two week northern France road trip itinerary.

With Rennes, the capital of the region, being just an hour’s drive from St Malo, it is literally a hop over the channel and the perfect place for a road trip from the UK to France .

With a wild and dramatic coastline and an undiscovered feel beyond the well-known tourist spots, this western France road trip offers a shared Celtic culture, ancient mysticism, and every type of beach imaginable!

Brittany Coast to Coast

Saint-malo – brest – quimper – vannes – rennes.

• Distance 540km
• Duration 10 days
• Drive Time 6 hour

The peninsula of Brittany lends itself to a jaunt around its coast, enjoying the superb seafood and friendly nature of the locals.

Start in historic St Malo before taking in the endless sightseeing opportunities of the peninsula’s varied 1600km long coastline. 

There’s a beach here for your taste, from secluded coves and surfing hotspots to long white stretches, dramatic cliffs, and rocky outcrops.

Around Perros-Guirec is the Cote de Granit Rose with its pink beaches, one of the most interesting coastlines in France, and across to the west is the Finistere coast with its huge beaches and quaint fishing villages.

If you want to dip into every cove, explore every interesting finger of land that protrudes into the sea, and visit all the charming towns and villages en route, then allow at least two weeks for this magical road trip.

• Beautiful gardens – also known as the Garden Coast, Brittany has some of the best gardens in France. From English-style cottage gardens to exotics, there’s something here for every green-fingered visitor.
• Delicious cider – Brittany is the cider country of France. With more than 600 apple varieties grown in the region, there’s a cider to suit everyone’s tastes.
• Customs and tradition – the pan-Celtic tradition is very evident here; the Breton language is spoken with pride and widespread cultural festivals celebrate Celtic music and dance.

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Centre-Val de Loire

Centre-Val de Loire is a landlocked region, located to the southwest of the French capital Paris. As the name suggests this region is all about the magnificent river Loire. Just four to five hours from Calais to the capital of Orleans, and three from Paris, this region is a popular holiday region and makes an ideal destination for a road trip.

This is a real France bucket list trip. Fine historical cities and towns, many of which stand on the banks of the Loire, offer superb Renaissance religious buildings and architecture and of course, the fabulous and extravagant chateaux the region is best known for.

Chateaux of the Loire

Orleans – blois – tours – angers – nantes.

The enchanting chateaux and picturesque towns of the Loire Valley make this historic region the perfect place to take a 10 day road trip in France.

Follow this Loire Valley road trip between famous cities and marvel at the natural wonders, opulent architecture, charming towns, and breathtaking castles of one of France’s best-loved regions.

You’ll visit the many chateaux on the route, including the famous Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Villandry, and explore the Loire’s historic towns, learning about French history, architecture and culture and you go.

Discover Joan of Arc’s legacy in Orleans and take a ride on a giant machine elephant in Nantes as you take in the beautiful Loire landscape.

• Delicious white wines – Touraine, Vouvray, Pouilly-Fume, Sancerre, and Valencay are just some of the well-known whites produced in this region. Take a vineyard tour and make sure to enjoy a wine tasting afterward!
• Historic cities – from gracious Orleans to Gothic Blois and Tours with its beautiful old town, the cities of this region are must-sees.
• Bird watching – La Brenne Natural Park is the hidden gem of Centre-Val de Loire. To the south of the region, this huge park containing over a thousand lakes is a wetland paradise for birders. 

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip.

Grand Est borders Germany, Luxembourg, Belgium, and a small part of Switzerland so it’s not surprising that this region has multicultural influences.

Grand Est is one of the most accessible regions if you’re taking a France road trip from Calais, a four hour drive will take you to the heart of the rolling Aube, and in six hours you can be in  Strasbourg , the capital of the region and home to one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. 

Previously known as Alsace-Champagne-Ardenne-Lorraine, the region is home to typical French countryside with an eclectic mix of vineyards, the low-lying Vosges mountains, and some of the prettiest small towns in France, found along the Alsace wine route.

In some less-visited and remote wooded parts of the Vosges, lynx, boar, and wolves can still be found in the wild, making the rich nature and biodiversity of the area of particular interest.

RELATED POST: Europe Road Trip – 16 Incredible Routes

Route Touristique du Champagne

Reims – trigny – epernay – cumieres – essoyes.

• Distance 285km
• Drive Time 5 hour

The whole of the Champagne Route stretches for around 700km across the departments of Marne, Aube, and Aisne, with eight marked trails to authentic villages, ancient monasteries, imposing châteaux and churches, and of course, vineyards!

This bit of the route takes you from Reims and its world-renowned champagne houses to the massif of Saint-Thierry where you can enjoy beautiful views from Trigny, a flower-filled village with medieval ramparts.

Visit the Verzenay lighthouse, which watches over a rolling swathe of vineyards and now houses the Musée de la Vigne, where you can learn about the history of champagne before driving on to Epernay, and its famous champagne houses of Moet & Chandon, Perrier Jouet and Pol Roger.

From Cumieres, embark on the Champagne Vallee boat to discover the vineyards along the water in the Marne valley. 

Further south on the Côte des Blancs road, admire the panoramic view of the vineyards from Mont Aimé and enjoy the charms of the pretty village of Oger. 

In Aube around Bar-sur-Seine, with its half-timbered houses, make a stop at Essoyes where Impressionist artist Auguste Renoir lived for a few years, and visit one of the 28 champagne cellars in the area.

• Champagne – of course! This champagne road trip is perfect for lovers of bubbles!
• Medieval   cathedrals – Grand Est is home to some of the most beautiful cathedrals in Europe, many are UNESCO World Heritage sites.
• War history – the Verdun & Argonne battlefields and war graves cemeteries of WWI can be found in the region, along with the WWII Maginot Line forts. The Surrender Room in Reims is where German forces capitulated to Eisenhower in May 1945, bringing an end to the long war.
• Accessible hiking  – easier on the heart and lungs, the hiking routes of the Vosges are a pleasure. With stunning rolling scenery and trails to take you through historic villages and make the most of the views, hiking in the Vosges is a real highlight. 

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to France.

Hauts-de-France

This is is the most northerly region of France and home to the port city of Calais, meaning it’s on the doorstep of the UK and a perfect French road trip destination for those wishing to nip across the Channel for a weekend from the UK, or for anyone looking for a few beach days on a longer trip in Paris. 

Not a major tourist region, the area is known for the battlefields of World War I, most notably the Somme, a four month battle in which over a million people lost their lives, and many people come here for the memorials and war sites.

But there is more to see in this part of France, including the incredible beaches, elegant resort towns, and pretty fishing villages dotted along the unspoiled and beautiful Cote d’Opale, or Opal Coast.  

Explore the Opal Coast

Calais – boulogne-sur-mer – le touquet – etaples – montreuil – abbeville.

• Distance 144km
• Duration 3 days
• Drive Time 2 hour

From Calais, head south and visit Cap Blanc-Nez (cape white nose), opposite the white cliffs of Dover, and Cap Griz-Nez, (cape grey nose), the closest point in France to England. Both headlands offer fine views across the channel and coast and some great walking opportunities.

Boulogne is the largest fishing port in France and is home to all things sea! Visit the excellent Nausicca Aquarium, full of fascinating displays, interactive exhibits, and sea life, before visiting the historic old town and port, where you can join an organized tour. 

Le Touquet is the jewel of the coast, known as Paris-Plage because this is traditionally where Parisians came for their long August break. Nowadays, it’s a lively resort known for its fantastic beach, water sports, and nightlife, including clubs and casinos.

Don’t miss the lighthouse, La Phare de la Canche, which rewards you with breathtaking views if you’re happy to climb the 274 steps to get to the viewing platform at the top!

Stop at the peaceful nature park of Baie de Canche, situated east of Étaples-Sur-Mer, a protected area of 45 hectares teeming with wildlife, before heading to Abbeville.

The capital of maritime Picardy and your final stop, Abbeville is a beautiful city and boasts rich historical monuments including the flamboyant Gothic style Saint-Vulfran collegiate church, with its magnificent carved facade.

• Mining history – much of the infrastructure in the northern parts of the region has been shaped by mining, a now redundant industry in this part of France. Visit the UNESCO listed Nord-Pas de Calais Mining Basin for a fascinating insight into the industry and a miner’s life in the pits.
• Beautiful belfries –  tall and often ornate clock towers attached to civic buildings, belfries are common in the region and were built to symbolize the power of the local alderman and councillors. The Belfries of Belgium and France is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features Roman, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles of architecture.
• Battlefield tours  – the battles of Flanders, the Somme, Vimy, and Ypres were all fought on the soil of the Hauts-de France by French, British, Canadian, Australian, and African troops. The memorials and cemeteries marking these battles make for moving visits.

France Road Trip Essentials

Lonely Planet France

France driving essentials

France SIM card

UPF 50 travel sun hat

France beaux villages guide

universal adaptor + USB

Ile-de-France

Ile-de-France is the small region surrounding the beautiful city of Paris. Surrounded by cities and forests that prospered from the patronage of the Kings of France, the area is rich in royal history, elegant palaces, and medieval towns. 

A four hour drive from Calais and on the doorstep for those flying in, it is perhaps not the first destination road trippers think of, but it is the ideal opportunity to combine a five day trip to Paris with a road trip to see the best bits of this compact region.

A Road Trip Around Paris

Chantilly – provins – fontainebleau – versailles – saint-denis.

• Distance 275km
• Duration 5 days
• Drive Time 4 hour

Start in Chantilly, a town obsessed with horses, and join the Parisians at the elegant Chantilly racetrack, home of the French Derby (or Prix du Jockey Club).  

Head along the pretty country roads to Fontainebleau forest for a spot of activity. Once the hunting grounds of French kings, and home to a beautiful palace, the area is dotted with massive boulders that attract anyone wanting to try bouldering. 

If hiking is more your thing, there are more than 500km of marked trails in the forest, with the 25 Bosses Trail being the most well-known. This challenging day hike will reward you with incredible views of the surrounding area. 

If you prefer to see it from the air, then hitch a ride on a hot air balloon, a popular way to see the forest.

From here, drive to the UNESCO site of historic Provins, a fortified city full of medieval half-timbered houses and cobbled streets inside the well-preserved ramparts. Built to accommodate an annual fair linking northern Europe with the Mediterranean, most of the buildings here are still in their original form.

Versailles is a once-in-a-lifetime visit and you must book online in advance as it can take five hours to queue in the summer if you don’t have a ticket. This shining, golden Baroque palace was once home to the Kings of France and spreads over 800 acres.

The inside is full of gold leaf, pink marble, and other finishes so opulent it almost hurts the eye. The formal gardens are beautifully symmetrical and soothing, with thousands of trees and water features – the perfect place for a picnic.

From Versailles, head north-east to the beautiful Basilica of Saint-Denis, one of the most important religious buildings in Ile-de-France. The first Gothic cathedral was built at the exact spot where Saint-Denis, the patron saint of Paris and France was buried.

• Iconic cities – although driving in and around Paris is to be avoided at all costs, you can stay outside Paris and get the train in, just follow this perfect  Paris one day trip itinerary  to see top sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame in one of the most cultured cities in Europe .
• Theme parks –  meet all your favorite characters at Disneyland Paris , just three and a half hours from Calais and an hour from Paris.
• Modern architecture – there are four Le Corbusier villas in Ile-de-France. Villa Savoye is in Poissy and Villa La Roche, Villa Jeanneret, and Immeuble Molitor are wonderful hidden gems in Paris.

Normandy borders the English Channel and is easily accessible from all the channel ports, the furthest being St Malo around a three to four hour drive. Le Havre is in the region itself and a perfect arrival port popular with UK road trippers, as well as being close to pretty Honfleur.

The whole region was a significant medieval empire and controlled much of England and Wales, leaving a rich history for visitors to explore on a Normandy road trip.

The three huge attractions of Rouen cathedral, the Bayeux Tapestry, and Mont Saint-Michel are the must-sees of the region. Along with the pretty fishing port of Honfleur and the D-Day beaches, this region has much to recommend and is one of the best road trip destinations in France.

The World War II Sites of Normandy

Benouville – ouistreham – arromanches – colleville-sur-mer – bayeaux.

• Distance 180km
• Drive Time 3 hour

You could visit the key places on this tour in a day, but to the sites justice and spend time at the memorials, you need three to five days.  

Start at Benouville, just north of Caen, for Pegasus Bridge and its museum, the site of a daring landing by gliders of the British 6th Airborne Division in shortly before the sea invasion.

From here, it’s a short hop to Ouistreham to visit Le Grand Bunker, part of the German Atlantic Wall defenses, and the German Battery to the north. 

Heading west, you’ll find the landing beaches of Sword (British and French), Juno (Canadian), Gold (British), and Omaha and Utah (American). Each has a number of visitor sites to be explored.

At Arromanches, watch an educational film at the 360-degree cinema on top of the cliff before you descend into the town itself and visit the Landing Museum built near the site of the Mulberry Harbours, which were constructed to aid the Allies in getting supplies ashore. 

As you continue west, don’t miss the German Gun Battery at Longues, before arriving at the atmospheric American Cemetery at Colville, where you can hear the Last Post daily at 5pm.

From Utah beach, skirt back to Bayeaux, home of the British and Commonwealth Cemetery and Battle of Normandy Museum (and of course, that famous tapestry).

RELATED POST: Normandy Road Trip: Ultimate 7 Day Itinerary

• Medieval heritage – Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, is chock full of medieval architecture and history. The Bayeux Tapestry, telling the story of the Norman invasion of England in 1066 is on glorious display in the town of the same name.
• Gorgeous gardens – if you are a gardener or painter, then there is no better garden in the whole of France than Giverny, Claude Monet’s country home and garden. Gloriously and unashamedly colorful, this beautiful place has provided inspiration to generations of gardeners and painters alike.
• Impressionist art – known as the birthplace of impressionism after Monet took inspiration in Le Havre and painted ‘ Impression, soleil levant ‘ (‘Impression, sunrise’) in 1872. Normandy houses two major collections and has no fewer than fifteen museums dedicated to impressionist art and history.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine

One of our personal favorites for a France road trip holiday, Nouvelle-Aquitaine is the largest region of France. From the ports of Caen or Cherbourg, the capital Bordeaux is a good seven to eight hour drive, making the region an ideal destination for a two or three weeks holiday. 

This region in the southwest of France is incredibly varied, from the mountains of the Pyrenees and the gently meandering Dordogne valley, to the almost continuous beach of the long Landes coastline. There’s also great French wine heritage here, along with classic gastronomy which uses the abundance of high-quality ingredients grown and produced in the region.

Pine forests, vineyards, elegant resorts and rustic villages shape this space, along with great regional food and wine which give life and color to a seriously enjoyable region of France.

RELATED POST: A Seven Day Pyrenees Hiking Tour

The Best of the Dordogne

Bordeaux – bergerac – la roque-gageac – sarlat-la-caneda – rocamadour – perigueux.

• Distance 380km
• Duration 5-7 days

Staring in the magnificent city of Bordeaux , known as the wine capital of the world, follow the Dordogne to beautiful Bergerac, a historic city, whose narrow streets are lined with fine houses and filled with blooms and quirky art installations.

Of course, you’ll also find a statue of Bergerac’s most famous son, Cyrano de Bergerac. A French soldier remembered chiefly for fighting many duels often over the size of his nose! 

From here, head for the medieval village of La Roque-Gageac, the gateway to the Valley of the Five Chateaux, home to five impressive castles, including Chateau Beynac and Chateau Castelnaud. You’ll also find the stunning Gardens of Marqueyssac hanging on the cliffs above the village.

Head east for the gorgeous town of Sarlat, deep in the wooded hills of the Dordogne. With cobbled streets and Gothic mansions galore, Sarlat makes a great base to explore locally and enjoy some of the fantastic gastronomy of the region.  

Cross into Occitanie for Rocamadour, home to the cheese of the same name, and the Gouffre de Padirac, two of the must-see attractions in the area which can be visited in a day if you’re pushed for time.

Allow a full day to explore the final stop of  Perigueux, making sure to visit the Saint-Front Cathedral, the quays, and the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum.

• Mountains  – the eastern Pyrenees are to the south of the region and beyond the towns and cities provide amazing cycling and hiking opportunities, including this seven day Pyrenees hiking tour . 
• Beaches – there are hundreds of miles of soft golden beaches along the coast. Stretching from the glamorous resort of Biarritz in the south to La Rochelle in the north, only interrupted by the river Garonne and the Arcachon Basin. If you like sand, head for the largest sand dune in Europe, Dune du Pilat, with an incredible view of the blue, turquoise and green crystal clear waters of the Arcachon basin. 
• Surfing –  people come here to surf the huge Atlantic rollers coming in from the Bay of Biscay and there is an annual world surf competition held in Lacanau-Ocean. If you can’t stand up, get a body board, or just spend hours deciding whether to float over the next wave or power under it.   

Occitanie (previously known as Languedoc) makes up almost one-half of the south of France and is a region of huge contrast. A solid ten to eleven hour drive from Caen, Occitanie makes a good destination if you have a couple of weeks to travel or, as part of a longer trip.

We think it’s worth the drive time for the atmosphere, history, and beauty you will find in this region. 

From the sun-drenched Herault of the deep south and the Mediterranean coast to the wild and raw beauty of the Cevennes and the majesty of the Pyrenees, the landscape and climate differ greatly.

This is a busy part of France, home to Carcassonne, Lourdes, and the Pont du Gard. These three top the busiest tourist destinations in Europe list and are best visited outside of July and August.

RELATED POST: The Best Wild Swimming in France

Beaches & Mountains of the Languedoc

Montpellier – sete – agde – beziers – carcassonne – gorge d’heric – pezenas – saint-guilhem-le-désert.

Start in the growing city of Monpellier and head south along the coast to the pretty fishing port and the seaside resort of Sete, surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea on one side and the Etang de Thau salt lake on the other.

The main canal running through the Sete city center is lined with bars and restaurants offering fish and seafood delicacies. Make sure to try a tielle, a local specialty comprising of octopus cooked in olive oil, tomato, and red wine and baked in pastry.

The salt lake Etang de Thau is sandwiched between vineyards and natural scrubland and is the ideal place to learn more about what the area is famous for – shellfish, and in particular oysters. There are a number of oyster farms open for visits where you can learn about the farming process.  

Agde, just along the coast, is famous for its black volcanic sand beaches which are unique to the region. La Grande Conque is one such beach, a small bay carved into the coast and a great place to while away the day sunbathing and swimming.

Your next stop is the beautiful town of Beziers, home to the Fonserannes Locks, the famous staircase of nine locks on the Canal du Midi, which allow boats to be raised 21.5m over a distance of 300m. You can hire a bike here and cycle along the canal towpath, for a peaceful afternoon ride.

Head west and inland for the iconic city of Carcassonne. The beautifully renovated citadel, La Cite, is a must-see in this area of France. Vast and imposing, it towers above the Aude and ‘new’ Carcassonne and feels a little Dinsneyesque inside, with lots of touristy (and expensive) bars and restaurants.

From here, if you have more time, you can head into the Pyrenees if you want to hike, kayak, and see the religious castles the area is famous for. 

Otherwise, the magnificent Gorge d’Heric is next up, with hiking and wild swimming opportunities in abundance. This dramatic gorge, in the heart of the Haut Languedoc nature reserve, is home to the river Heric as it rushes down from the Massif de Caroux.

You can walk up the Gorge for around 5km, or hike and rock climb the Caroux if you want something a bit more challenging. All the way up the gorge are massive boulders and private natural swimming pools, filled with clear turquoise waters and wonderful for a cooling dip on a hot summer’s day.

From here, pretty Pezenas calls, with its Friday wine festivals through summer, local craft shops, and weekly farmers market. A perfect place to stop for a few days and catch your breath, before taking in the Pont du Diable, perfect for a spot of cliff-jumping and paddle boarding.

A few miles away from the Devil’s Bridge is Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, nestled in the heart of the Herault Gorges and a major stop for pilgrims making their way to Santiago de Compostela in north-west Spain. The centerpiece of the village is the Gellone Abbey, a 1200-year-old UNESCO World Heritage Site, tucked in the corner of the main square.

RELATED POST: South of France Road Trip: Route, Highlights & Tips

• Wild swimming – the gorges of the region have some of the best  wild swimming  and canyoning in France. Tucked into the Montagne Noire or the midi-Pyrenees, the water is crystal clear and refreshing.
• Outdoor adventures – head for the Gard and Lozere departments where you’ll find nature at its finest. Winding rivers like the Tarn are superb for kayaking and often have small river beaches and swimming holes, with perfectly placed rocky ledges to jump from. The Cevennes National Park offers great hiking in a wild and natural environment.
• Religious history – The Aude and Ariege have a strong Cathar history and you can see remnants everywhere. Follow the Route of the Cathars through fortified hilltops, castles, villages, and towns for a fascinating insight into a religion that shaped this part of France for centuries.

Pays de la Loire

The Pays de la Loire is a region of north-western France that adjoins the region of Centre-Val de Loire. Both regions share many characteristics including the Loire Valley and large numbers of famous chateaux.

One difference is the long Atlantic coastline of the Pays de la Loire known as the Vendee, a very popular UK tourist destination due to its proximity to the eastern channel ports, and enjoyed for its gentle waves, sandy beaches, and quintessential sea-side resorts.  

An easy three to four hours from Caen to Nantes places you in the heart of this region, with the Loire Valley to the east and the beaches of the Vendee to the west.  

RELATED POST: The Best Campervan Destinations in France

The Coast of the Vendee

Nantes – saint-gilles-croix-de-vie – les sables-d’olonne – la tranche-sur-mer – la rochelle.

Starting in increasingly popular Nantes, home to the Les Machines de L’ile, this west coast road trip is more about the relaxed coastal resorts than cities.

Make for Saint Gilles-Croix-de Vie, stopping at Sallertaine on the route, to explore the peaceful canals of the Marais Breton in an open canoe.

Once in Saint-Gilles, enjoy the chic and lively ambiance, as well as superb sardines, caught locally and on your plate within a few hours.

On the Côte de Lumière or Coast of Light, the coastal resorts here enjoy 2400 hours of sun every year, making this a perfect place to relax on a sun lounger for a few days.

Continue south to Les Sables-d’Olonne, the point of departure for the Vendee Globe round-the-world sailing race. A popular seaside resort, it has a superb sandy beach and a pretty seafront promenade plus a casino and golf course to keep you busy.

Next up is La Tranche-sur-Mer, known as ‘little California’ because of its exceptional sunshine hours and 13km of sandy beaches.

With an authentic vibe and lively family atmosphere, this is a great stop for teenagers, with lots of water sports on offer, as well as free concerts and street entertainment in the evenings in summer.

Your final stop is the historic sea town of La Rochelle, a laid-back resort town with a well-deserved reputation for great seafood, and the best old port on the French Atlantic.

Spend a day meandering around the charming town before exploring the maritime museum and aquarium.

• Bucket and spade holidays – perfect for family holidays, the Vendee is lined with some of the best French holiday parks offering fantastic facilities. Kids love the beaches for perfect sand-castle building and gentle waves.
• Theme parks – the Puy du Fou historic theme park has  over 1,5 million visitors a year and is one of the most popular attractions in the whole of France, and perfect for a day out if you are traveling with kids.
• Beautiful chateaux – one of the main attractions of the region, the chateaux of the Loire Valley are world famous.

Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur

A favorite of many, this region, often abbreviated to PACA, covers a large and diverse area. From the sparkling Mediterranean Sea to the French Alps, and from the river Rhone to the Italian border, Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur is the furthest of France’s regions from the UK.

It takes a whopping eight hours of driving from Paris and twelve to thirteen hours from Calais, making the journey a road trip to the south of France in its own right.

For the glamorous and fashionable resorts of the French Riviera, the lavender fields and whitewashed towns of Provence, and the off-the-beaten-path wilderness of the Parc Naturel Régional de Camargue, those driving hours are so worth it.

The sun-baked landscapes, beautiful hilltop towns and villages, abundant local produce, and delicious wines just add to the attraction. 

The Route Napoleon

Grenoble – laffrey – la mure – corps – col bayard – gap – sisteron – digne – castellane – saint-vallier-de-thiey – grasse – antibes.

• Distance 314km
• Drive Time 8 hour

The most picturesque south of France road trip, the historic Route Napoleon begins in the Auvergne-Rhone- Alpes region.

The road trip starts (or ends, as the route starts at the coast, but can be road tripped either way) in Grenoble, the route follows the footsteps of the famous General on his return from exile in Elba, as he headed north for Waterloo.

Inaugurated in 1932, you will see statues of the Imperial French Eagle marking the way, along what is now (mainly) the N85.

The road is really spectacular, with switchbacks, sweeping bends, and challenging mountain stretches making it one of the best road trips in France.

Peaking at 1246m at Col Bayard before passing into Provence and the towns of historic Sisteron, beautiful Digne, and fragrant Grasse, you’ll also pass the stunning Gorge du Verdon and the beautiful lavender fields of the Valensole plateau.

From Castellane to Grasse, the views to the coast from the road are spectacular, across lush green slopes dotted with magnificent villas, to the sparkling blue of the Mediterranean, just one of the reasons to start in Grenoble and head south. 

This route smells heavenly too – the scent of hot pine sap and the essential oils of regional herbs being warmed by the sun is the fragrance of southern France.

RELATED POST: Route Napoleon: A Historic French Road Trip

• Glitz and glamour – St Tropez is one of the most famous Cote d’Azur holiday resorts. People on Riviera road trips flock to the vieux port where the rich and famous berth their mega-yachts, and enjoy the honeyed stone buildings and pretty squares of a slightly more relaxed and authentic St Tropez. If you want more, head to Monaco, Nice or Cannes, or one of the ridiculously opulent villas which open their doors to the public. 
• Iconic Lavender – field upon field and row upon row of beautiful and fragrant lavender carpets  Provence  in June and July. Go early in the day for the best photo opportunities.
• Local produce – experience a marchés hebdomadaires ( farmers market). Most towns have a weekly market where you will find fresh bread, wonderful fruit and vegetables, pungent cheeses, meaty saucisson sausage, fat olives, and pretty much any other fresh food stuff you might want to buy. 

France Country Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in France.

• Search for affordable flights to France with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in France with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in France with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable hire cars in France with Rentalcars.com
• Best for ferries from UK to France Direct Ferries
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Information About Driving in France

Road trips in France are usually pleasurable, thanks to their extensive and well-maintained autoroute network, and generally good local roads. French drivers can be impatient and are dreadful tailgaters and really, really dislike being overtaken, but, c’est la vie, this is France!

Whether your road tripping France in a campervan , car, or motorbike, follow these tips for driving safely and legally;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from France.
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit for driving in Europe . You can check whether you need an IDP here .
• You must carry at least one reflective jacket within the passenger compartment of your vehicle and must put it on before you get out in an emergency or breakdown situation. You must also carry a warning triangle.
• You may require a Crit’Air sticker which is placed in the windscreen of your vehicle to provide a visible way to identify the level of emissions produced. If you’re renting a vehicle, the Crit’Air sticker should already be on display in the windscreen. Find out more and purchase Crit’Air stickers from the official certificat-air.gouv.fr website.
• On 1 November 2021 the Loi Montage II or ‘mountain law II’ came into force in 48 French mountainous departments within the Alpes, Massif Central, Jura, Pyrénées, and Vosges regions. Anyone traveling in a car or motorhome or through one of these areas between 1 November and 31 March will be obliged to fit four approved winter tires or carry at least two snow chains or socks in the vehicle.
• French motorways are privately managed and you’re not allowed to request your own assistance company to attend to you if you break down. If you do break down use the orange emergency telephones that are situated every 2km along French motorways to call the police or the official breakdown service operating in that area or dial the emergency services on 112. You will be towed to a safe designated area where you can make onward arrangements for your own breakdown insurer to assist you if you have it. Otherwise, the towing company will be able to provide support or signpost you. 
• You do not need to carry a breathalyzer, the law requiring that you do has been repealed.
• You may want to consider carrying an  electronic toll pass  for the duration of your French road trip itinerary. These devices deduct the toll fees from a credit card automatically, meaning you don’t have to stop at a booth or barrier.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

Are you looking for more incredible road trips? Check out these top posts…

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The Ultimate 7 to 10 Days in the South of France Itinerary

Last Updated on September 1, 2023

by Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe and, although many visitors will stay in Paris, plenty head down to to plan an itinerary for the south of France to soak up the sun on the pristine beaches, visit the stunning mountain ranges or learn about French culture on a city break.

There is a lot of diversity to see in the south of France, taking you to all of the above, or allowing you to pick and mix as you please.

Whichever stops you end up choosing, you’re sure to have a fantastic holiday surrounded by lush natural areas, historic locations or beautiful city centres, whetthr you have a week to spend, 10 days or more.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in the South of France?

To explore the whole of the south of France, from the Atlantic coast of Bayonne to the Mediterranean principality of Monaco , you would need at least two weeks to freely explore each wonderful town and city en route without rushing.

However, to enjoy the Mediterranean coastline and its neighbouring cities, towns and quaint villages, 10 days are ideal.

Although, if you want to concentrate your stops in one area, such as Languedoc-Roussillon or Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur, you can spend a very pleasant week in the region, without spending too much time on the road. 

Part of the fun of a road trip is seeing the sights from a car window and stopping when your interest is piqued by a looming château or spectacular view.

So it can be a great idea to plan a few days of activities but leave yourselves a day or at least an afternoon here and there for travelling and taking in the scenery.

Equally, if you prefer not to drive and would rather take trains or buses, you can pack picnics for your journeys and enjoy the views; you may still be on the move rather than on your feet or a sun lounger, but it’s a great way to make the most of every moment of your holiday.

The itinerary outlined below covers a range of highlights to be found in the area. However, if you’re keen to dig deeper into various regions, make sure to check out our Provence itinerary or our French Riviera itinerary if you’ve already decided where you want to go.

Getting To & Around the South of France

Driving tends to be the best mode of transport to get around the south of France, as you’re then free to move around according to your own schedule, and there are many free (or at least cheap) places to park to be found in most cities and towns across the country.

All of the airports and city centres will have rental car companies where you can find various vehicles for reasonable prices, although it’s advisable to book in advance to guarantee you get the car of your choice.

The French have an expression that roughly translates to “there may not be work, but there are always roadworks”, so if you’re planning a south of France road trip itinerary outside of the summer months, it’s useful to have Google Maps open to have live traffic information for your journey so you can take alternative routes where necessary.

However, from June to September, as both French and foreign tourists travel around the country, there tend to be very few problems on the road, and you can almost guarantee excellent road surfaces to make your car journeys significantly more comfortable.

What’s more, the south of France has an excellent reputation for hitchhiking, so if you’re feeling adventurous and have a loose schedule for your trip to the south of France, this can be a great way of travelling around and getting some insider information about the hidden gems. Just make sure to follow safety precautions.

Getting to the south of France in the first place is also very simple as there are many airports located all along the south.

There are major airports in Toulouse, Nice, Marseille and Montpellier , so you can start your journey easily from any of these cities, although you can also arrive from the UK and other neighbouring European countries in the smaller cities of Carcassonne, Nîmes, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence and Toulon. You can book airport pickups here.

Each of these cities also has excellent public transportation, so you can visit much of the south of France by train. However, if you’d like to spend time in more rural villages and historic sites, there may not be trains and only a few buses each day, so having your own car is definitely advisable.

Most of the stops on our southern France itinerary will be well-known towns and cities that can easily be accessed by train or bus, but there are a couple of more out-of-the-way destinations that will be harder to reach without a car. So try to choose the best stops for your own route accordingly. You can view train and bus schedules here.

7 to 10 Day South of France Itinerary

From cities and towns to lakes and villages, this route will show you the best that France has to offer, without spending too long on the road so you can make the most of the bright sunshine, bustling streets and beautiful landscape.

Day 1 – Toulouse

Toulouse is a great place to start, as the airport has excellent connections to major European cities like London , Paris , Amsterdam and Munich , without being so busy that you spend your whole first day waiting at border control.

You can rent a car from the airport to start your road trip, or take the tram into the city for just a few euros and arrive in the centre ready to explore.

The centre of Toulouse has a wonderful large square lined on one side by the beautiful pink and white building Le Capitole that houses the town hall and the theatre of Toulouse.

This square is a great welcome into the city, leading off into winding streets full of boutiques and restaurants showing off the famous red brick of the region and the amazing cuisine.

You can wander around the city and discover the other incredible red brick structures like the Saint-Sernin Basilica and the Jacobins Convent with its enormous stained glass windows and occasional evening light show on the exterior façade. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  a food tour  if you want to learn more about the area from a guide.

The Canal du Midi also flows through Toulouse, as does the River Garonne, which provides a lovely place for an afternoon stroll, admiring the Occitan architecture, sunbathing on the steps leading to the river and sipping a cocktail on one of the floating bars. Plus, if you look closely under the Pont Neuf, you can spot one of James Colomina’s curious little red statues…

As a city, you can find plenty of places to stay within Toulouse from budget hotels and B&Bs to luxury apartments. Or, for a more rural gîte, you can head slightly further out of the city to enjoy nature, which is particularly beautiful around the Tarn and Garonne Rivers.

Where to Stay in Toulouse

Hôtel Héliot – Mid-range visitors to Toulouse will love this cool, 3-star hotel. Located in the centre of the city, they have a range of lovely rooms along with a great breakfast on offer in the morning.

Boutique Hotel SOCLO – This boutique hotel is an excellent option for those after a luxury stay in Toulouse. They have a range of plush rooms to choose from along with an excellent location for exploring all the city has to offer.

Appartements Design Hypercentre – If you’d prefer to have your own flat while in the South of France, then these apartments in Toulouse are a great choice. They come fully furnished and have a great, central location.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Toulouse hotels!

Day 2 – Carcassonne

Moving further south from Toulouse, you come across the amazing walled city of Carcassonne – the perfect place for a day trip. You can visit independently or go on an organised trip such as this full-day tour or this full-day tour.

Having been occupied since 500 BCE, this land was transformed by the Romans into a walled city which was further enhanced in the 12th century to create the incredible 3 km of ramparts we see today.

You can see the 52 towers rising in the distance as you approach by car, train or plane and the inside of the city takes you back in time with its traditional French shops selling everything from sweets to swords.

In the summer, the city comes to life with jousting tournaments, battle reenactments, opportunities to learn how to write with a quill and ink and people dressed in traditional mediaeval clothing wandering around the city. It’s a great place to visit with the family, but equally interesting for anyone with an interest in history, architecture or French culture.

The highlight of Carcassonne is the mediaeval city, however, there is a more modern town on the other side of the river which has hotels, restaurants and some apartments to rent, so if you haven’t brought your campervan, this is an excellent place to stay.

Day 3 – Montpellier

Moving further south still, we get to the real entrance of the south of France: Montpellier . Located on the Mediterranean coast, the amazing city has everything, from Roman ruins and neoclassical architecture to beaches, parks and exquisite gastronomy.

Visitors can happily stroll around the streets of the city centre, coming across the main square La Comedie, named after the huge theatre on one end, where the locals gather for entertainment, or simply to pass through on their way to work.

A short walk will take you to the magnificent 17th-century Triumphal Arch and stunning 18th-century tiered aqueduct that’s still working to supply the city’s fountains with water.

If that’s not enough to entice you, Montpellier has a fantastic botanical garden, which is the oldest in France, as well as plenty of murals and trompe d’œils dotted around the city streets, making for a wonderful walking tour. You can also easily take the tram around the city if you don’t feel like walking too far, as well as to the enormous beach with wild flamingos nearby.

Montpellier is a large city and has a very popular university so you can find activities for young people around every corner, as well as cheap hotels and apartments so everyone can have the chance to explore this amazing coastal city. Even if you can only stay for a week, make sure you stop by Montpellier – you won’t be disappointed!

Where to Stay in Montpellier

Hôtel Royal – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Montpellier is a fantastic choice for those looking for a central place to stay in this French city. They have a range of chic rooms to choose from along with breakfast on offer each morning.

Hôtel Oceania Le Métropole – This chic hotel is an excellent choice for those after a luxury option while staying in Montpellier. They have an excellent, central location along with an array of plush rooms plus many other amenities available.

Appart’City Confort Montpellier Saint Roch – If you’re keen for a self-catering option while exploring the south of France, then these apartments are a great choice. They have an array of fully-furnished flats all within easy access of all Montpellier has to offer.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Montpellier hotels!

Day 4 – Arles

Carcassonne and Montpellier were simply appetisers for history buffs, who can now rub their hands in glee at our next destination, the fabulous city of Arles . Arles is a perfectly sized town to wander around the streets and get a glimpse of the Provençal architecture and Roman ruins, namely the spectacular amphitheatre, Arènes d’Arles.

This 20,000 seater, two-tiered arena was built in 90 CE for gladiator fights and chariot races to entertain the locals and had towers added during the mediaeval era and looks unbelievably incredible today.

You can easily spend a few hours learning about the history of the structure or even watching a performance as it now hosts live music, bullfighting and other events in Summer, before heading off to experience the city’s other claim to fame: van Gogh’s house.

Having lived in the city for just a year, Vincent van Gogh created hundreds of artworks during his stay, having been greatly inspired by the natural beauty and pastel colours of the houses. Unfortunately, the house where he resided (and cut off his ear) was destroyed during the Second World War, however, you can visit a museum dedicated to the artist nearby.

Don’t miss out on the amazing and spooky Alyscamps either, with its incredible Gothic sarcophagi on either side of the ancient road leading down to a 12th-century church.

There aren’t lots of hotels within Arles city centre, however, with the Rhône River flowing through the landscape, there are some wonderful campsites and gîtes surrounded by countryside just five minutes driving out of the city. It is also very feasible to continue onto Marseille for the next few nights.

Where to Stay in Marseille

Hôtel Life Marseille VP – This 3-star hotel in the centre of Marseille is a great option for mid-range visitors. There are several bright and modern rooms on offer, a fab breakfast each morning and room service available.

La Residence Du Vieux Port – Located in the old port area of Marseille, this high-end hotel is great for luxury travellers. There are lots of room types for both couples and families, a fitness centre and a restaurant on site.

Vertigo Vieux-Port – This cool, centrally located hostel is great for backpackers looking for a budget-friendly and social option. There are dorms and privates available and good common areas to enjoy.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Marseille hotels!

Day 5 – Marseille

There’s not much to be said about the oldest and third-largest city in France that hasn’t already been said, and all of the great things you’ve heard about Marseille are true. Founded by the Greeks over 2600 years ago, the port city has seen a great deal of migration from all across the world making it a spectacularly diverse melting pot of architecture, cuisine, culture and religion.

The Basilique Notre-Dame de la Garde is a must-see place within the city, and fortunately, you can see it from all around Marseille as it towers high above the otherwise quite flat city.

On the opposite side of Marseille, close to the train station is the equally spectacular but less well-known black and white striped Cathedrale La Major, which looks particularly magnificent at sunrise when the daylight causes the domed roof to glow orange.

A short distance away is the famous fish market and port of Marseille where you can see the fishermen selling their catches, as they’ve done for centuries, and take amazing photographs with the beautiful boats in the fore and the basilica in the background.

It’s possible to spend a few days in Marseille and not get the chance to see everything, so it’s a great destination for a weekend break, but even if you’ve got 10 days in the area, you’ve got to spare one for Marseille – even if it’s just to eat seafood (or take a food tour ) and enjoy the views.

Similar to other cities in France, you can find many hotels across the city for all kinds of budgets, as well as smaller B&Bs in the suburbs.

But there’s great transportation in the city, so rather than driving in, it’s a good idea to leave your car parked by your accommodation and just take a bus in and out of the city when you need to. 

Day 6 – Gorges du Verdon

So far each destination has been easily reachable by public transport, however, it’s more difficult to reach our next stop if you’re seeing the south of France by train. But, the Gorges du Verdon is one of the most breathtaking locations in the whole of France, so if possible, you have to include it on your itinerary.

This 25 km long canyon has been cut out of limestone by the brilliant turquoise Verdon River that reaches down 700 metres at its deepest and is a popular place to take a pedalo or kayak, or go hiking and even rock climbing.

You can travel through the gorge into the Sainte-Croix Lake which was created in the 1970s by flooding the small village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon, later rebuilt on the banks of the lake. You can stop here for lunch in any number of delightful restaurants with mesmerising lakeside views, or bring a picnic with you to enjoy a full day out exploring the canyon and surrounding lakes.

There are several hotels in the village of Les Salles-sur-Verdon and near the small village of Boulogne, on the south side of the gorges, and you can find plenty of campsites surrounding the Sainte-Croix Lake, some with cabins that you can rent if you haven’t got your own tent.

But be wary that the Gorges du Verdon is a very popular place to stay in Summer, so you’ll need to book your accommodation well in advance. Alternatively, continue onto Cannes for the evening, where you can be based for the next few days of this itinerary. There are also a number of other places to stay on the French Riviera that are great choices.

For those who don’t want to make the drive out to the gorge, there are other great options available for this day. You could, for instance, spend another day exploring Marseille. You could also opt to take a day trip to the lavender fields and take in a hilltop village in Provence.

Another great option would be to visit the Calanques du Marseille and the village of Cassis for a gorgeous area very close to the city.

Where to Stay in Cannes

Villa Claudia Hotel Cannes – If you’re on a mid-range budget while in Cannes, then this hotel is a good choice. It has a good location for exploring the city, breakfast is available in the mornings and there is a great garden to enjoy.

Hotel Splendid – This hotel is a fantastic luxury option for those looking to live the high life while on the French Riviera. They have a myriad of incredible rooms to choose from along with a great location for exploring the city and area.

La Bastide de l’Oliveraie – Those after a bit of an alternative accommodation option will love these plush suites in Cannes. They have an excellent, central location and there are plenty of rooms and suites available to choose from.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Cannes hotels!

Day 7 – Saint-Raphaël

Back down to the Mediterranean coast, between the picturesque but incredibly busy town of St Tropez and the large and equally popular city of Cannes , is the small yet delightful town of Saint-Raphaël.

With a small harbour, a huge cathedral and beautiful beaches, this lovely little town is a great place to spend a relaxing final day of a south of France itinerary if you’re on a week-long holiday.

The charming town is a wonderful place to wander around, perusing the little shops and soaking up the sun, but during the Summer, the town really comes to life after 7.30 pm with its famous night market! This is much different than market day in other Provençal towns.

Stalls line the boardwalk all evening, selling local products from traditional Provençal soaps and perfumes to sweet treats and jewellery, so after you’ve had your traditional fish soup, anchovy paste, stuffed peppers or Bouillabaisse, you can’t miss out on a wander around the market to bring your 7 days in the south of France to a close.

If you’ve got time, you’ve also got to check out the superb amphitheatre of Fréjus, just a ten-minute drive from Saint-Raphaël centre.

Saint-Raphaël doesn’t have its own airport, however, it’s just a 45-minute drive from Cannes Airport, or 1 hour along the coastal road so you can say your farewells to the Côte d’Azur as you head home.

If you’re staying on, you can find many different hotels and apartments to stay in for the night all along the coast, although as we head into the more glamorous coastline, you’ll notice the prices can jump up quite a bit from other properties on our itinerary.

Day 8 – Valbonne

For your eighth day in the south of France, it’s time to head away from the coastal towns and cities to experience life in a small village, and there’s none better than Valbonne.

Just north of Cannes and Antibes, you can easily reach Valbonne by car from Saint-Raphaël, or if you’re travelling on public transport you can take a bus from Cannes to Valbonne for just a few euros.

This little village may lack big landmarks and resorts, but it’s bursting with character, with charming cobbled streets leading you around the village, from quaint squares to historic churches.

This style of architecture and tiny community nestled into a valley surrounded by wilderness is archetypal of the area, so a must-visit place for anyone looking to get away from the busy cities and tourist-filled beaches to get a glimpse into the real south of France.

There are a number of wonderful places to eat, including Auberges, serving traditional dishes using produce sourced directly from the surrounding countryside to heighten your experience of rural French life. You can stay in the village, but there are only two hotels, so you’ll want to book well in advance if you want to stay overnight.

However, the large city of Cannes is not far away so there will be much more choice of hotels, as well as gîtes and B&Bs dotted around the countryside if you prefer to stay in a more rural location.

Day 9 – Nice

After a day in the countryside, it’s time to get back into the city, and one of the French Riviera’s most unmissable cities has to be Nice .

With its bustling city centre full of designer shops, boutiques, restaurants, bars and nightclubs, you won’t be short of things to do as you walk from street to street, under the intriguing street lamps. But Nice isn’t your average city.

As you head out of the modern centre, you can come across the delightful old town, with more traditional boutiques and eateries, and you can even visit one of the first Russian Orthodox Cathedrals built in France, the beautiful Cathédrale Saint-Nicolas de Nice.

With its intriguing shape, red brick exterior, turquoise domed roofs and pointed turrets, it may be small but it’s well worth visiting while you’re in Nice – just remember to wear long sleeves and trousers to be allowed entry.

You can also walk up the Colline du Château to see the ruins of an old castle and a beautiful waterfall as well as have incredible views over the whole of Nice.

There’s plenty to do in the city for all ages and interests, as well as accommodation for all budgets in the city centre and further out in the suburbs. You can also  organise a walking tour  or  food tour  if you prefer to explore with a guide.

Where to Stay in Nice

Nice Garden Hotel – This is a great mid-range hotel in Nice to round out your south of France trip. They have a number of lovely rooms to choose from along with a great location within easy reach of the Promenade des Anglais.

Palais Saleya Boutique hôtel – If you’re looking for a luxury hotel while in Nice, then you can’t go wrong with this lovely place. They have a number of delightful rooms to choose from along with plenty of amenities to ensure you have a great stay.

Aparthotel AMMI Vieux Nice – Located in Old Nice, these apartments are a wonderful choice for those keen for their own space in this coastal metropolis. They have a number of great flats, all equipped with everything you may need for your stay.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Nice hotels!

Day 10 – Èze

Nice Airport is the best place to fly out of the south of France if you’ve come along the south coast from west to east, and fortunately, it’s not far from the wonderful village of Èze, which makes for a remarkably relaxing final day of your holiday.

Simply wander around the picturesque village with cobbled streets and stone houses, stunning views over the Mediterranean and the nearby millionaire’s playground that is Monaco.

Or, take a free tour of the renowned Fragonard perfume factory before heading to a cliffside restaurant to enjoy your final plat du jour and a crisp local vin blanc before heading home.

Have More Time?

If you have more than 10 days , there are plenty of other highlights to stop in en route.

Stop in one of the only papal seats outside the Vatican in Avignon to explore the Pope’s Palace, the famous destroyed bridge Le Pont d’Avignon and the nearby Pont du Gard for a day before visiting Arles, or continue your journey along the French Riviera to the flash principality of Monaco to see how the other half live or try your luck in the famous casino.

Or if Roman history piques your interest, stop by the incredible city of Nîmes near Arles to see a 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheatre that gives Arles a run for its money, as well as its perfectly preserved white Roman temple La Maison Carrée.

En route from Carcassonne to Montpellier, you can also stop for a day of hiking and art in the community of Mayronnes to walk along the impressive 6 km long sculpture trail – but bring plenty of water with you as it can get very hot, especially in the height of summer.

Whether you take a road trip or see the south of France by train, there is plenty to do across the whole region for all interests. Over a week or 10 days in the south of France, you’ll get to experience some amazing food, architecture and natural areas that will surely have you aching to get back as soon as your feet are off French soil.

Are you visiting the south of France? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Brittany Scott-Gunfield

Brittany is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Colchester, England, she is slowly but surely travelling the world as a digital nomad. She loves to hike around different landscapes and has a deep love for travelling around France (and elsewhere in Europe).

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