7 Days In France, 10 Amazing One Week In France Itineraries

Looking for some travel inspiration for your next trip to France? Look no further! I’ve put together a guide to help you plan a perfect one week itinerary, complete with 10 sample 7 days in France itineraries.

Although one week may seem like a short amount of time, with some advance planning and a sense of adventure, you can have an unforgettable trip to France.

France is a country with incredible diversity, each region offering its own unique culture, food, architecture, and attractions. As someone who has visited France numerous times, I can attest to the country’s charm and appeal.

Pinterest pin for one week in France itineraries
Pinterest pin for one week in France itineraries

But with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to prioritize. That’s why I’ve narrowed down my top 10 itineraries for spending one perfect week in France. These itineraries range from the most popular cities and attractions to off-the-beaten-path destinations, so there’s something for everyone.

Whether you’re interested in exploring the glamour of Paris, immersing yourself in French history and culture, enjoying the outdoors, or wandering through quaint medieval towns, there’s an itinerary for you. You can even combine these itineraries to create a longer trip to France.

Of course, these itineraries can be adjusted and customized to suit your personal interests and needs. So what are you waiting for? Let’s plan your dream trip to France!

Notre Dame on the Île de la Cité
Notre Dame on the Île de la Cité

1 Week In France: 10 Sample 7 Day Itineraries

As a self-proclaimed obsessive itinerary planner, I can personally vouch for these amazing one week in France itineraries.

When it comes to planning a one week trip to France, there are two main ways to structure your itinerary.

You can opt for a fast-paced trip, moving around 2-3 times to see all the bucket-list items on your list. Alternatively, you can choose a single base or region and take day trips from there for a more relaxed pace.

Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower

These sample 7 days in France itineraries offer both options, and I personally would be excited to take any of these trips again. For each itinerary, I suggest places to stay and tickets and tours you might need. For Paris especially, it’s important to book skip the line tickets well in advance.

Here are my picks for the best ways to spend one week in France:

  • 1 week in Paris
  • 1 week in Provence
  • 1 week in Occitanie
  • 1 week in the Dordogne
  • 1 week in the Loire Valley
  • 1 week in Northeast France
  • 1 week in Normandy
  • 1 week in Brittany
  • 1 week in the French Riviera
  • 1 week in Paris + the Champagne Region
  • 1 week in the Paris + the Alsace
Arc de Triomphe
Arc de Triomphe

One Week In France Itineraries

One Week In France: 7 Days In Paris Itinerary

One week in Paris is a delicious treat. You’ll never run out of things to do, but you won’t have to rush around frantically to see everything. Here’s how to proceed:

Day 1:

Explore the Louvre Museum and its vast collection of art, including the famous Mona Lisa. Visit the Palais Royal and stroll through its garden and art installation.

Take in a nearby museum, either the Pompidou Center or the Bourse de Commerce. At night, stroll along the Seine River or take a Seine river cruise.

Day 2:

Climb the iconic Eiffel Tower and take in the stunning views of the city from the top. Visit the Quai Branley Museum, which is a unique museum devoted entirely to non-Western indigenous art.

Explore the Champs-Élysées and enjoy shopping or browsing. At sunset, climb the Arc de Triomphe for sweeping views of Paris.

Rue de l'Abreuvoir in Montmartre
Rue de l’Abreuvoir in Montmartre

Day 3:

Spend the day exploring the charming neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais. Stroll Montmartre’s cobbled lanes and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. In the Marais, admire the Place des Vosges and take in some of the excellent museums like the Picasso Museum or the Musee Carnavalet.

Day 4:

Take a day trip to the Palace of Versailles. The palace was the principal royal residence of Louis XIV and is one of the most famous and opulent palaces in the world. Visitors can see the palace’s grand Hall of Mirrors, the King’s State Apartments, the gardens, and the Trianon palaces.

Day 5:

Visit the Île de la Cité. Discover the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Sainte-Chapelle, known for its stunning stained glass windows. In the afternoon, visit the Musée d’Orsay and admire its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.

Day 6:

Explore the Saint Germain and Latin Quarter neighborhood on the Left Bank. Stroll though Luxembourg Gardens and visit the Pantheon or the Cluny Museum. In the evening, consider taking a Left Bank food tour.

street in the Latin Quarter
Latin Quarter

Day 7:

Explore the 8th arrondissement and the 9th arrondissement. Visit the Grand Palais, the Petit Palais, the Opera Garnier, or La Madeleine Church. Go shopping at Paris’ grand magasins, Printemps and the Galleries Lafayette.

Tours & Tickets:

Here are some guided tours that you may want to book in Paris:

You will definitely need to pre-book these tickets for popular attractions:

Where To Stay In Paris: Relais Christine, Cour des Vosges, La Planque Hotel, La Roch Hotel & Spa, Four Seasons George VHotel San Regis Hotel Le Crillon.

Roman Amphitheater in Arles
Roman Amphitheater in Arles

One Week In France: 7 Days In Provence

Provence is a picturesque region in the southeast of France, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. 

This sun-kissed region is famous for its rolling hills covered in lavender fields, vineyards, and olive groves, charming hilltop villages, and stunning coastline. The region is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood, fragrant herbs, and world class wines. 

Here’s how to spend one week in Provence:

Day 1: Arles

Arrival in Arles, which is a UNESCO city filled to the brim with Roman treasures, fantastic art, and colorful pastel houses. Explore the city, including the Roman Amphitheatre, the Theatre Antique, the Van Gogh Foundation, and Luma Arles.

Day 2: Saint-Remy-de-Provence & Les Baux

Take a day trip to Saint-Remy-de-Provence and visit the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole monastery. This is where Van Gogh stayed in an asylum and painted some of his most famous works. You can also visit the nearby town Les Baux-de-Provence, a stoney UNESCO village perched on a hilltop.

Saint-Remy-de-Provence
Saint-Remy-de-Provence

Day 3: Avignon

Head to Avignon, a charming city known for its impressive architecture, lively squares, and chic eateries. Visit the Palais des Papes, the famous bridge Pont Saint-Benezet, and the historic center of the city. For more information, you can check out my one day in Avignon itinerary.

Day 4: Pont du Gard & Uzes

Leave Arles in the morning and visit Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct that is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can take a guided tour of the aqueduct and learn about its history and engineering, or simply enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Afterward, head to Uzès, a charming medieval town with a famous market, historic architecture, and lovely shops and cafes. In the late afternoon, continue on to Lourmarin and settle into your accommodation.

pretty street in Uses
Uzes

Day 5: Lourmarin & Valensole

Visit the village of Lourmarin and have a relaxing day. Take a walk through the town, visit the Château de Lourmarin and the local market, and enjoy lunch at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the village.

You could also go to Valensole in the afternoon. It’s 22 miles northeast of Lourmarin. Valensole is famous for its stunning lavender fields, which bloom from late June to early August each year.

Day 6: Luberon Villages

Take a day trip to the picturesque hilltop villages of Gordes, Roussillon, and Bonnieux in the Luberon Valley. Each of these villages has its own unique charm and character, and they offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

pretty street in Lourmarin
pretty street in Lourmarin

Day 7: Vaison-la-Romaine

Visit Vaison-la-Romaine, an ancient Roman city that is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Provence. Visit the Puymin Archaeological Site, the Roman Theatre, and the Roman Bridge. Then explore the enchanting medieval part of the town.

Where To Stay:

For this 7 days in France itinerary, I suggest you stay in Arles and one of the Luberon villages like Lourmarin. In Arles, check out: L’Hotel Particulier Arles, Hotel & Spa Jules Cesar Arles, and the L’Arlatan.

In Lourmarin, you might consider Hotel Bastide de LourmarinLe Moulin, or the Beaumier Hotel.

Tickets & Tours: Arles walking tour, wine tour from Avignon, Van Gogh themed tour, Luberon Valley tour, Pont du Gard ticket

medieval part of Vaison-la-Romaine
medieval part of Vaison-la-Romaine

One Week In France: 7 Days In Occitanie

Occitanie is a dreamy region in southern France known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique culture.

It encompasses a diverse range of areas, from the Pyrenees mountains to the Mediterranean coast, and is home to many charming towns and cities. 

The region has a strong sense of identity and a unique language, Occitan, which is still spoken in some areas. Visitors can enjoy local cuisine, wines, and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing. And the foodie scene is great, especially in Toulouse. 

Toulouse, a must visit with one week in France
Toulouse

Day 1: Toulouse

Arrive in Toulouse, the lively capital of Occitanie. The city is blessed with beautiful churches, museums, and cobblestone squares. The food is very unique and some of the most famous in the world.

Spend the day exploring the city’s historic center, known for its pink-hued brick buildings, and visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, the largest Romanesque church in Europe. For more ideas and information, you can read my one day in Toulouse itinerary and my guide to the top attractions in Toulouse.

Day 2: Carcassonne

Take a day trip to Carcassonne, a fortified medieval city known for its well-preserved castle and ramparts. Stroll through the narrow streets of the citadel and learn about its fascinating history. 

Day 3: Albi

Visit Albi, a UNESCO World Heritage site and birthplace of the famous painter Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Explore the city’s historic center and see the imposing Sainte-Cécile Cathedral and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.

the UNESCO-listed Albi Cathedral
the UNESCO-listed Albi Cathedral

Day 4: Cordes-sur-Ciel

Take a day trip to Cordes-sur-Ciel, a stunning medieval village perched atop a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside. Wander the cobblestone streets and admire the Gothic architecture of the 13th-century Saint-Michel Church.

Day 5: Cathar Castles

Explore the impressive Cathar castles in Occitanie, including the Chateau de Montsegur, Chateau de Peyrepertuse, and Chateau de Puilaurens. These castles are perched on rocky hilltops and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 6: Montpelier & Nimes

On day 6, visit Montpelier and Nimes, which are about 30 miles apart. You could do them both in one day if you prioritize the top attractions. But if you’d rather proceed at a more leisurely pace, just choose one of these towns to visit.

Montpellier is a lively university town known for its historic city center. It features winding cobblestone streets, elegant mansions, and lively squares. The town is also famous for its modern architecture, including the futuristic Antigone District.

Roman Arena of Nimes
Roman Arena of Nimes

Nimes is best known for its incredibly well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Maison Carrée temple and the stunning Roman Amphitheater. The city also has a rich history, with medieval and Renaissance architecture throughout the old town.

Day 7: Toulouse

Return to Toulouse. Spend the day exploring the Canal du Midi, a 17th-century canal that that connects Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea.Take a boat tour or rent a bike and ride along the scenic towpaths.

Alternatively, you could visit one of Toulouse’s many museums. The Musée des Augustins houses a lovely collection of medieval and Renaissance art. Les Abattoirs has cutting edge modern art. And 

Where To Stay:

For this itinerary, you could base yourself in Toulouse. There are some lovely hotels and Air Bnb there, including Grand Hotel de l’Opera, Hotel des Beaux Arts, Le Grand Balcon, or the Pullman Toulouse Centre Ramblas Hotel.

If something in the country side appeals more, check out Château de la Cazine (in Noth) and Domaine de Verchant (Castelnau-le-Lez).

Tickets & Tours: Toulouse walking tour, Toulouse wine tasting tour, guided food tour, Albi walking tour, Nimes walking tour

Beynac-et-Cazenac
Beynac-et-Cazenac

One Week In France: 7 Days In The Dordogne

Located in southwestern France, the Dordogne is a region known for its stunning natural beauty, prehistoric caves, and charming medieval towns. 

The region is named after the Dordogne River that flows through it, offering stunning views and recreational activities like canoeing and kayaking. The area is also renowned for its culinary delights, including truffles, foie gras, and wine. 

You can visit ancient castles and abbeys, wander through quaint villages, and enjoy  the lively markets that showcase local produce and crafts. The Dordogne is the perfect destination for those looking to experience the best of France’s countryside, culture, and cuisine.

Here’s how to spend one week in France in the Dordogne region:

Day 1: Bergerac

Arrive in Bergerac and spend the day exploring the town’s historic center, with its narrow streets, old houses, and beautiful church.

Sarlat, a must see town with one week in France in the Dordogne region
Sarlat

Day 2: Sarlat

Head to Sarlat-la-Canéda, one of the region’s most picturesque towns. Wander the narrow streets lined with beautiful Renaissance and medieval buildings, and visit the Saturday morning market.

Day 3: Château de Beynac

Visit the Château de Beynac, a stunning medieval castle perched on a cliff overlooking the Dordogne River. Afterward, take a relaxing canoe trip down the river, passing by more beautiful castles and scenic villages.

Day 4: Lascaux

Explore the prehistoric caves of Lascaux, which contain some of the world’s most famous cave paintings. Afterward, head to the charming village of Saint-Geniès for lunch and a stroll around the town.

Rocamadour
Rocamadour

Day 5: Rocamadour

Visit the beautiful town of Rocamadour, built into the side of a cliff overlooking the Alzou River. Afterward, explore the nearby Gouffre de Padirac, a deep underground cave system with crystal-clear pools and an underground river.

Day 6: Brantôme

Spend the day in the beautiful town of Brantôme, known as the Venice of the Dordogne thanks to its network of canals and beautiful buildings. Visit the Benedictine abbey and take a stroll along the river.

Day 7: Marqueyssac

End your trip with a visit to the stunning gardens of Marqueyssac, with its beautiful topiary and panoramic views of the Dordogne valley. Alternatively, you could visit the Château de Castelnaud, a beautiful castle with a fascinating history and great views over the river.

Where To Stay: For this one week in France itinerary, I would base yourself either in or near Sarlat. You can check out La Villa des Consuls, Le Mas de Castel, or Château de la Treyne. Another option is Château des Vigiers outside Bergerac.

Tickets & Tours: Lascaux Caves tour, Sarlat gourmet food and market tour, half day Rocamadour tour

One Week In France: 7 Days In The Loire Valley

The Loire Valley is a UNESCO-listed region in France that is dotted with beautiful chateaux and steeped in aristocratic grandeur. The Loire River flows gently through the valley, surrounded by lush green fields, vineyards, and rolling hills.

While the towns along the Loire River are not particularly noteworthy, it’s the enchanting and centuries-old fairytale castles that make the region a must-visit destination. These stunning chateaux boast extravagant facades, opulent interiors, and splendid gardens.

I’ve written a one week in the Loire Valley itinerary already, so won’t repeat it all here.

Chateau de Chenonceau
Chateau de Chenonceau

It goes like this:

  • Day 1: Depart from Paris, stop in Chartres en route to Blois
  • Day 2: Visit Chateau de Chambord and Chateau de Cheverny from Blois
  • Day 3: Drive to Amboise and visit Chateau d’Amboise and Chateau du Clos Luce
  • Day 4: Visit Chateau de Chenonceau and Chateau de Chaumont
  • Day 5: Drive to Chinon, stop at Chateau de Villandry and Chateau d’Usse
  • Day 6: Visit Chateau de Langeais and Chateau Azay-le-Rideau
  • Day 7: Visit Royal Abbey Fontevraud and Chateau d’Angers
  • Extra time? Head to Brittany or Normandy

The region is easily accessible from Paris, and this one week in France itinerary assumes that you will be starting your trip in the French capital. However, you could also fly into Nantes and follow this itinerary in reverse order.

Where To Stay: I listed hotels for each Loire city in my linked itinerary. Two of the most bucolic options to consider are the Relais de Chambord and Domain des Hauts de Loire.

Tickets & Tours: Chateau Chambord tour, Chateau Chenonceau ticket, hot air balloon ride

Lille

One Week In France: 7 Days In Northeast France Itinerary

Northeast France is a historic region that boasts charming towns, magnificent cathedrals, and a rich cultural heritage.

Lille is an exciting and underrated city and there are plenty of other medieval towns to explore. The region is also known for its delicious cuisine, including hearty stews, fresh seafood, and world renowned cheeses.

Day 1: Lille

Arrive in Lille and spend the day exploring the city. Lille is a great destination for foodies, history buffs, and art lovers, with a lively atmosphere and plenty of things to see and do. Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts, the Grand Place, and the Citadel of Lille.

Day 2: Roubaix

Take a day trip to Roubaix, just north of Lille, and visit the La Piscine Museum of Art and Industry, housed in a former Art Deco swimming pool.

Arras
Arras

Day 3: Arras

Travel to Arras and spend the day exploring the city’s historic center, including the Grand Place and the Belfry. Don’t miss the Wellington Quarry, an underground museum that tells the story of the Battle of Arras during World War I.

Day 4: Lens

Take a day trip to Lens and visit the Louvre-Lens Museum. It’s a stunning glass and steel museum that showcases works from the Louvre’s collection.

Day 5: Laon

Travel to the medieval city of Laon and spend the day exploring the stunning cathedral, the ramparts, and the picturesque streets of the old town. The cathedral is so unique. It’s covered in animal sculptures — lions, eagles, owls, griffins, and oxen.

Day 6: Chemin des Dames

Visit the nearby Chemin des Dames, a series of ridges that were the site of a major battle during World War I. Explore the various monuments and memorials along the route.

Louvre-Lens Museum in Lens
Louvre-Lens Museum in Lens

Day 7: Lille

Return to Lille and spend the day shopping and dining in the city’s trendy Vieux Lille neighborhood. Don’t miss the Wazemmes Market, a bustling open-air market that’s been held for over a century.

Where To Stay:

For this 7 days in France itinerary, Lille would be a great base as it is a major city in the region with good transportation and dining options. Plus, the hotels are amazing! Check out the Clarance Hotel Lille, Couvent des Minimes, Hotel Barrière Lille, and L’Hermitage Gantois, Autograph Collection.

Tickets & Tours: Vieux Lille walking tour

One Week In France: 7 Days In Normandy Itinerary

Normandy is a region steeped in history. In Normandy, legendary figures like William the Conquerer and Joan of Arc changed the course of history.

Normandy’s landscapes inspired the Impressionist painters. D-Day beaches commemorate the horror of WWII. In Bayeux, a 1,000 year old tapestry tells the story of medieval warfare and sieges.

Bayeux
Bayeux

Handsome Normandy is crammed with appealingly diverse landscapes. From its picturesque pastures to its ancient fishing harbors, Normandy is a bucolic melange of medieval towns, sun-drenched seaside resorts, and towering Gothic cathedrals.

I’ve already written a one week in Normandy itinerary, so you can check that our for more details. This one week in France itinerary goes like this:

  • Day 1: Drive to Rouen, stop in Giverny or at Chateau Gaillard
  • Day 2: Explore Rouen
  • Day 3: Drive to Honfleur
  • Day 4: Day Trip To Etretat and/or Fecamp
  • Day 5: Day trip to Le Havre or Deauville
  • Day 6: Drive To Bayeux
  • Day 7: Day Trip to D Day Beaches
  • More time: Mont Saint-Michel and Brittany

This 1 week itinerary assumes you’re departing for Normandy from Paris. For this one week in France tinerary, you’ll have three bases: (1) Rouen (2 nights); Honfleur (3 nights); and Bayeux (2 nights).

Honfleur, a beautiful must see town with one week in France
Honfleur

If you don’t want to move bases, you can just pick one. The destinations in this Normandy itinerary aren’t far apart. Check out my linked article for specific hotels.

Tickets & Tours: D-Day sites tour, Honfleur walking tour, Mont Saint-Michel tour

One Week In France: 7 Days In Brittany Itinerary

Brittany is a region in the northwest of France that is known for its rugged coastline, beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and rich Celtic heritage. A one week itinerary for Brittany could include the following destinations:

Day 1: Rennes

Spend the day exploring the city of Rennes, the capital of Brittany. Visit the Place des Lices, the Parliament of Brittany, and the Musée de Bretagne to learn about the history and culture of the region. In the evening, enjoy some traditional Breton cuisine at one of the city’s many restaurants.

Saint-Malo
Saint-Malo

Day 2: Saint-Malo

Take a day trip to the walled city of Saint-Malo, located on the northern coast of Brittany. Stroll through the narrow streets of the old town, walk along the ramparts for stunning views of the sea, and visit the Château de Saint-Malo, a historic castle that now houses the Musée d’Histoire de la Ville.

Day 3: Dinan

Dinan is a medieval town with cobbled streets and half-timbered house, located on the banks of the Rance River. The town is known for its well-preserved historic architecture, including 14th and 15th century timber-framed houses. There’s also a 13th century castle on the top of a hill with stunning views of the surrounding area.

Day 4: Dinard

Spend the day in Dinard, a chic seaside town that is known for its Belle Epoque architecture and picturesque beaches. Visit the Villa Eugenie, a 19th century mansion that was once a popular destination for wealthy tourists, and relax on the Plage de l’Ecluse, one of the town’s most beautiful beaches.

Rocheforte-en-Terre
Rocheforte-en-Terre

Day 5: Rocheforte-en -Terre

Rochefort-en-Terre is a must-see village in Brittany and was voted “France’s favorite village” in 2016. This beautiful hamlet sits on a hilltop overlooking the Valley of Arz and is an architectural dream. 

Don’t miss the Notre Dame de la Tronchaye church and swoonful Place du Puits, where you’ll find stone buildings, hanging iron signs, a fountain, and flower boxes on every facade.

Day 6: Vannes

In the afternoon, head to Vannes, a picturesque walled city on the Gulf of Morbihan. Vannes is an ancient town famous for its iconic cobbled lanes, narrow streets, and walled fortifications.

Stroll through the old town, visit the Cathédrale Saint-Pierre, and explore the Musée de la Cohue. Vannes also has a great foodie scene and is home to several Michelin restaurants.

street in historic Rennes
Rennes

Day 7: Carnac and Back To Rennes

If you like prehistoric ruins, you could head to Carnac before heading back to Rennes for your departure. Carnac is known for its famous prehistoric standing stones. Visit the Alignments of Carnac, a complex of thousands of standing stones that are over 6,000 years old. 

Where To Stay:

For bases in Brittany, I would choose one in the north and one in the south. For the north, choose either Rennes or Saint-Malo. 

Choose Rennes if you like cities and want more dining and transportation options. It’s also slightly closer to Vannes and Rochefort. A great option is the Balthazar Hotel & Spa Rennes.

If you want small town charm instead, choose Saint-Malo or Dinan. A good option is Grand Hôtel des Thermes, on the Saint-Malo beachfront.

For your southern base in the Moribund region, you could pick Rochefort or Vannes. The Villa Kerasy Hotel Spa in Vannes has luxury rooms and a gourmet restaurant.

Tickets & Tours: Saint-Malo walking tour

Cannes
Cannes

One Week In France: 7 Days In The French Riviera Itinerary

The French Riviera, also known as the Côte d’Azur, is a world-renowned destination located along the southeastern coast of France, bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It’s an excellent place to spend one week in France.

With its sparkling blue waters, glamorous resorts, and charming coastal towns, the French Riviera has been a magnet for celebrities, artists, and visitors seeking the ultimate luxury experience. 

The region is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, as well as world-class museums, historic sites, luxury resorts, and famous festivals such as the Cannes Film Festival. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural getaway, or a high-end shopping experience, the French Riviera has it all.

Here’s how to spend one week in France in the French Riviera:

Day 1: Nice

Arrive in Nice and spend the day exploring the Old Town, with its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and outdoor markets. Visit the Place Masséna, the Promenade des Anglais, and the Castle Hill for panoramic views of the city.

Antibes
Antibes

Day 2: Cannes and Antibes

Take a day trip to Cannes and Antibes, two of the most famous cities on the French Riviera. Walk along La Croisette in Cannes, the city’s most famous promenade, and visit the Film Festival Palace. 

Then head to Antibes and explore the historic Old Town, including the Picasso Museum and the Provençal market.

Day 3: Monaco

Visit the tiny but glamorous city-state of Monaco, home to the famous Monte Carlo Casino, the Prince’s Palace, and the Oceanographic Museum. Take a stroll along the harbor and the narrow streets of the old town, and don’t forget to visit the Monaco Cathedral and the changing of the guard at the Palace.

Eze
Eze

Day 4: Eze & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat

Take a scenic drive to the charming medieval village of Eze, perched on a hilltop overlooking the sea. Visit the Fragonard perfume factory and take a stroll around the cobblestone streets. 

Then head to the elegant peninsula of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, where you can visit the Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, a magnificent Belle Époque villa and garden.

Day 5: Menton or Villefranche-sur-Mer

Take a day trip to Menton, known as the “Pearl of France.” The town is known for its mild climate, beautiful beaches, and colorful gardens and homes. You can explore the historic Old Town, visit the Jean Cocteau Museum, and admire the ornate Basilica of Saint-Michel.

Alternatively, head to Villefranche-sur-Mer, a town where pretty pastel houses cascade down to the waterfront. You can relax on the beach, explore the historic old town and visit some of its attractions such as the Chapelle Saint-Pierre and the Citadelle Saint-Elme.

You can also take a boat tour from the port to see the stunning coastline of the French Riviera. If you have more time, you can also hike up to Mont Alban for panoramic views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Saint-Paul-de-Vence

Day 6: Grasse & St. Paul de Vence

Visit the picturesque town of Grasse, known as the perfume capital of the world. Take a tour of one of the many perfume factories and learn about the art of creating fragrances. Then head to the nearby village of Gourdon, perched on a hilltop and offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Day 7: Nice

Spend your last day in Nice, visiting any sites you may have missed on the first day. Relax on the beach, take a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, or explore some of the city’s many museums, such as the Matisse Museum or the Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art.

Where To Stay: For bases for this one week in France itinerary, you could choose Nice (if you like cities), Antibes (for a smaller town), or rent a villa along the coast. 

The French Riveria is synonymous with luxury. If you want a swish nest for your one week in France, you can check out these excellent hotels:

  • Château de la Chèvre d’Or: a 5 star hotel located in Eze, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea.
  • La Réserve de Beaulieu & Spa: a 5 star hotel located in the seaside town of Beaulieu-sur-Mer, featuring a private beach, spa, and Michelin-starred restaurant.
  • Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel: a 5 star hotel located in the town of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, featuring a private beach, multiple restaurants, and a spa.
  • Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc: a 5 star hotel located in Antibes, featuring a private beach, multiple restaurants, and a spa.

Tickets & Tours: Eze & Monaco day trip, wine tasting in Nice, Gorges of Verdun tour

Notre Dame of Reims Cathedral
Notre Dame of Reims Cathedral

One Week In France: 7 Days In Paris + The Champagne Region Itinerary

This one week in France itinerary takes you to Paris, one of the world’s most exciting cities and the Champagne region.

The Champagne region is 93 miles east of Paris. It is a picturesque area of gently rolling hills covered in vineyards, charming villages, and historic towns. The region is world-renowned for producing some of the finest sparkling wines in the world, also known as champagne.

The region is home to more than 300 champagne houses and wineries, many of which offer tours and tastings.

Reims is the unofficial capital of the region and boasts an impressive cathedral where French kings were once crowned. Epernay is also a popular destination, known for its grand Champagne houses and historic architecture.

Beyond the wine and history, the Champagne region offers a picturesque countryside dotted with charming villages, rolling hills, and tranquil rivers. The region is also home to a number of Michelin-starred restaurants.

Epernay

Here’s how to spend 7 days in Paris and the Champagne region:

Day 1-3: Paris

For these three days, you can follow my 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Day 4: Reims

Take a train or hire a car and head to Reims, the heart of the Champagne region. Explore the city and visit some of the famous champagne houses, such as Mumm, Taittinger, and Pommery. You can check out my one day in Reims itinerary for more ideas.

Day 5: Epernay

Head to Epernay, another charming town in the Champagne region that is home to the famous Avenue de Champagne. In Épernay, you can take a stroll down the famous Avenue de Champagne, which is lined with grand Champagne houses such as Moët & Chandon, Perrier-Jouët, and Mercier.

Day 6: Champagne Vineyards

Take a tour of the Champagne vineyards and learn about the process of making champagne. You can visit some of the smaller, family-owned champagne producers in the region.

Seine River
Seine River

Day 7: Paris

Return to Paris and spend your final day shopping, exploring, and enjoying the city. You may want to take a boat ride on the Seine or visit the Palace of Versailles.

Where To Stay: I would stay in Epernay. Villa Eugène is a luxury hotel is located in a historic mansion in the heart of Épernay. The hotel features elegant rooms and suites, a gourmet restaurant, a spa, and a beautiful garden.

The Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa is 5 star hotel is located in the nearby village of Champillon. La Briqueterie is a stylish 5 star hotel is located in the nearby village of Vinay.

Tickets & Tours: Reims Cathedral ticket and tour, champagne tasting tour, Veuve Clicquot tour

1 Week In Paris + The Alsace Itinerary

Another fun one week in France itinerary combines Paris and the Alsace region. I’ve covered Paris above.

The Alsace region in northeastern France, near the border with Germany. It is a region known for its charming, picturesque towns, stunning natural beauty, and rich history and culture.

Colmar
Colmar

Everywhere you look, you’ll see half-timbered houses with brightly painted shutters and flower-filled window boxes. 

The region’s cities also boast impressive Gothic and Renaissance architecture, including cathedrals, churches, and public buildings. And it’s world renowned for its cuisine and wine. 

Day 1-3: Paris

Spend the first three days of your trip in Paris, exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, museums, and neighborhoods. You can follow my 3 days in Paris itinerary.

Day 4: Strasbourg

Take a high-speed train from Paris to Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region. Spend the day exploring the city’s charming historic center, with its cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and beautiful cathedral. Don’t miss the picturesque La Petite France neighborhood, with its canals and quaint shops and cafes.

Strasbourg, a must see with one week in France in the Alsace region
Strasbourg

Day 5: Colmar and the Wine Route

Take a day trip from Strasbourg to the beautiful town of Colmar, known for its picturesque Old Town and colorful half-timbered houses. Afterward, drive or take a guided tour along the famous Alsace Wine Route, stopping at some of the region’s best wineries and tasting rooms.

Day 6: Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle and Riquewihr

Visit the stunning Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a hilltop overlooking the Alsatian countryside. Afterward, head to the charming town of Riquewihr, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and excellent wines.

Day 7: Eguisheim

Eguisheim is a beautiful village in the Alsace region of France, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and picturesque streets. The village is located on the Alsace Wine Route and is surrounded by vineyards, making it an excellent place to taste some of the region’s best wines.

Eguisheim
Eguisheim

The village’s central square is lined with half-timbered houses and cafes, and the winding streets are a joy to explore. Some of the must-see attractions in Eguisheim include the Château Saint-Léon, the Eglise Saint-Pierre-et-Paul, and the Fontaine de la Vierge.

Where To Stay:

Because Colmar is both super charming and located in the heart of the Alsace, I would base there. La Maison des Têtes is a beautiful luxury hotel is located in a 17th century mansion with a Michelin-starred restaurant, spa, and a bar.

Hôtel-Spa La Cheneaudière is a lovely resort is located about 30 minutes from Colmar in the town of Colroy-la-Roche.

Tickets & Tours: wine tasting tour, best of Alsace tour, Strasbourg walking tour

I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to sample one week itineraries in France. You may enjoy these other France travel guides and resources.

If you want to spend one week in France, pin it for later.

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