France is a country that captivates travelers with its rich history, world-class cuisine, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. A two-week trip is the perfect amount of time to explore its diverse regions, from the iconic streets of Paris to the picturesque villages of Provence and the breathtaking coastlines of the French Riviera. Whether you’re interested in history, gastronomy, or natural beauty, France has an itinerary to match your travel style.
How to Plan a Two-Week Trip to France
Before diving into the best itineraries, here are some essential travel tips for making the most of your two weeks in France:
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April–June) and Autumn (September–October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds.
Summer (July–August) is ideal for beach destinations but can be crowded and expensive.
Winter (December–February) is great for Christmas markets and skiing in the Alps.
Transportation Options
Trains: The high-speed TGV connects major cities efficiently.
Car Rental: Best for exploring the countryside and regions like Provence and the Loire Valley.
Domestic Flights: Ideal for long-distance travel between Paris and Nice, or Paris and Bordeaux.
Budget Considerations
Luxury: €300+ per day (5-star hotels, fine dining, private tours).
Mid-Range: €150–€250 per day (3–4-star hotels, casual dining, sightseeing).
Budget: €75–€150 per day (hostels, local transport, street food).
Itinerary 1: Classic France – The Ultimate First-Timer’s Tour
This itinerary covers France’s must-see destinations, balancing cultural highlights with relaxation.
Day 1–4: Paris – The City of Light
Visit the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Stroll through Montmartre and admire the view from Sacre-Cœur.
Enjoy a Seine River cruise at sunset.
Take a day trip to Versailles to explore the grand palace and gardens.
Day 5–7: Loire Valley – Castles and Vineyards
Drive or take a train to the Loire Valley, famous for châteaux and wineries.
Visit Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Villandry.
Enjoy a wine-tasting tour in the vineyards of Vouvray or Sancerre.
Day 8–10: Bordeaux & Dordogne – Wine and History
Travel to Bordeaux, France’s wine capital.
Explore the Cité du Vin, a wine museum.
Take a day trip to Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO-listed medieval town with excellent vineyards.
Visit Dordogne’s prehistoric caves, such as Lascaux.
Day 11–14: Provence & French Riviera
Fly or take a train to Avignon, the gateway to Provence.
Explore Pont du Gard, Gordes, and the Lavender Fields (seasonal).
Continue to Nice and enjoy the Promenade des Anglais.
Take a day trip to Monaco or Cannes.
Itinerary 2: A Food & Wine Lover’s Journey Through France
Perfect for travelers who want to indulge in France’s world-famous gastronomy and wine.
Day 1–3: Paris – The Culinary Capital
Have a croissant and café crème at a Parisian café.
Join a food tour in Le Marais, sampling cheese, wine, and pastries.
Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Le Meurice or L’Arpège.
Day 4–6: Champagne & Burgundy – Bubbly and Red Wines
Take a train to Reims, the heart of Champagne.
Visit the legendary Veuve Clicquot and Moët & Chandon cellars.
Travel to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy.
Explore the Hôtel-Dieu and taste Pinot Noir in Dijon and Nuits-Saint-Georges.
Day 7–10: Lyon – France’s Culinary Heart
Take a train to Lyon, the capital of French gastronomy.
Dine in a traditional bouchon and try quenelles (dumplings in sauce).
Visit the Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a gourmet market.
Take a cooking class with a local chef.
Day 11–14: Provence – Olive Oil, Herbs & Rosé Wine
Stay in Aix-en-Provence and explore its charming markets.
Visit an olive oil mill and a lavender farm.
Take a wine tour in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, famous for its bold reds.
Itinerary 3: Off-the-Beaten-Path France – Hidden Gems & Natural Beauty
This itinerary focuses on scenic landscapes and lesser-known regions.
Day 1–3: Alsace – Fairytale Villages & Vineyards
Start in Strasbourg, known for its half-timbered houses and La Petite France.
Visit the charming villages of Riquewihr and Colmar.
Follow the Alsace Wine Route, stopping at small family-run wineries.
Day 4–6: The French Alps – Mont Blanc & Chamonix
Take a train to Annecy, often called the Venice of the Alps.
Explore Chamonix, a paradise for hiking and skiing.
Take a cable car to Aiguille du Midi for stunning views of Mont Blanc.
Day 7–10: Brittany – Coastal Beauty & Medieval Towns
Visit Saint-Malo, a historic walled port city.
See the dramatic cliffs of Cap Fréhel and Pink Granite Coast.
Explore Dinan, a medieval town with cobbled streets.
Day 11–14: The Basque Country & Pyrenees
Stay in Biarritz, a glamorous beach town.
Try Basque cuisine, including pintxos and Axoa (veal stew).
Explore the Pyrenees Mountains, perfect for hiking and nature lovers.
Final Tips for a Perfect Two-Week France Trip
Book train tickets in advance on SNCF for the best prices.
Consider a France Rail Pass if traveling frequently by train.
Learn basic French phrases, especially if visiting rural areas.
Pack for diverse climates, especially if traveling between the north and south.
Reserve popular attractions and restaurants early, particularly in summer.
With these well-crafted itineraries, you can experience the best of France, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an outdoor enthusiast. Each journey offers a blend of iconic landmarks and hidden gems, ensuring an unforgettable two-week adventure.
