10 Gorgeous France Itineraries – Perfect for Road or Rail

Last updated on June 24, 2025

There’s a reason France is the most touristed country in the world, and it’s not just because of Paris. Beyond the capital, the country has some of the world’s most varied landscapes, from mountains to lakes, to sand dunes to sea. And the history and culture add a layer of charm that makes it rightly one of the world’s favourite places for a vacation.

I’ve spent most of my life taking it for granted as it’s so close to home, but more recent trips and deeper exploration have got me waxing lyrical about its beauty – so much so, I can imagine making it an annual trip. That’s the thing with France, it’s huge and has so much to offer that you need to return again and again to see it all. For a first time visitor, it’s hard to know where to begin, so I’ve put together this post, with some help from other bloggers, to give you some itinerary ideas.

I’ve visited France more times than I can count, so most are my own suggestions, but I’ve also added some more from fellow bloggers.

We also have a post all about how to plan the perfect France road trip. In that we give an overview of the regions, plus specific tips on planning a perfect road trip through France.

How to get around on your France itinerary

When it comes to travelling around France, you have two main options: a road trip or a route by rail – or perhaps a combination of both. We generally prefer the latter, travelling long distances by rail and then using a car to get off the beaten path and explore the countryside and smaller villages. We got trains from Bristol all the way down to Provence with Interrail, which was so much more enjoyable than a flight or a long drive would have been.

France has an excellent public transport system, so it’s easy to navigate without a car. The high-speed rail system (TGV) makes traveling between major cities quick and comfortable. For example, you can travel from Paris to Lyon, Bordeaux, or Marseille in just a few hours. The French train network is extensive, covering not just the major cities but also smaller towns, making rail travel a convenient option for most itineraries. Booking your tickets in advance, especially for the TGV, can help you secure lower fares.

When you want to explore more rural or remote regions, you’ll need a car. French roads are well-maintained, and driving through scenic countryside routes, such as those in Provence or the Loire Valley, can be an experience in itself. However, be mindful of tolls on the highways and the higher cost of parking in city centers. Public buses also run in smaller towns, and regional trains are available, though they tend to be slower.

Lastly, for short distances within cities, France has excellent public transportation systems, including metro networks in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille, as well as trams and buses in smaller cities. If you’re visiting Paris, for instance, the metro is the fastest and most affordable way to navigate the city. Many cities also have bike-sharing schemes, such as Vélib’ in Paris, which provide a fun way to get around. We often hire bikes in France as they’re widely used so the road are normally cyclist-friendly.

10 gorgeous France itineraries

1. South of France: Provence Road Trip

Aix-en-Provence – Luberon Villages – Verdon Gorge – Côte d’Azur Hilltop Towns – Nice/Monaco – French Riviera Beach Towns – Marseille, Cassis and Calenque National Park – Avignon

A road trip through the highlights of beautiful Provence, from the hilltop towns to the epic beauty of the Verdon Gorge.

Highlights

This Provence road trip takes you through some of the most iconic and scenic spots in the South of France.

Starting in the elegant city of Aix-en-Provence, known for its art and culture, you’ll head to the fairytale hilltop villages of the Luberon, such as Gordes and Roussillon. The Verdon Gorge offers breathtaking natural beauty with opportunities for both driving along the rim and exploring its waters by pedalo. You could also base yourself in Aix and do these as day trips from Aix-en-Provence.

Afterward, explore the charming hilltop towns of the Côte d’Azur, before making your way to the glitz and glamour of Nice and Monaco. Finish your journey along the French Riviera, stopping at famous beach towns like St. Tropez, Cannes, and Antibes, and round off the trip in Marseille and Cassis, where you’ll discover the wonders of Calenque National Park.

Along the way, you’ll encounter lavender fields, treehouses, and delightful accommodations like Bastide du Bois.

See our full South of France itinerary.

Where to stay

• Castellane: Camping La Ferme de Castellane
• Maubec: Bastide du Bois
• Cassis: Hotel Les Volets Rouges

2. West Coast France Road Trip

Biarritz – Moliets or Hossegor – Arcachon – Bordeaux – Médoc Atlantique – La Rochelle – Île de Ré

From surf towns to elegant cities and charming vineyards, this west coast France road trip takes in the best of the Atlantic coast.

Highlights

This Atlantic coast road trip is a beautiful journey along wild coastline, gorgeous beaches, peaceful villages and elegant cities.

Begin in Biarritz, a city where chic sophistication meets surf culture, then head north to the laid-back beach towns of Moliets or Hossegor, both ideal for catching some waves.

From there, continue to Arcachon, home to the stunning Dune du Pilat, Europe’s tallest sand dune, before moving on to Bordeaux for a taste of elegant city life and world-renowned wines.

Next, head to the pristine beaches and vineyards of Médoc Atlantique, perfect for cycling and enjoying the coastal scenery. The maritime charm of La Rochelle’s historic port will draw you in before you make your way to the serene Île de Ré, where you can bike through charming villages and peaceful coastline.

See our full west coast France road trip itinerary.

Where to stay

• Biarritz: Hotel Villa Koegui Biarritz
• La Rochelle: Hotel Champlain
• Sainte-Marie-de-Ré: Huttopia Chardons bleus Ile de Re

3. One-Month France Highlights Road Trip

Paris – Lyon – Annecy – Ardeche – Avignon – Provence road trip – Montpelier – Lourdes – West Coast road trip

A one-month road trip taking in some of France’s best highlights and linking our Provence and west coast road trips.

Highlights

This road trip links our Provence and west coast road trips, adding a jaunt through Paris, the Alps and Ardeche to begin, and then a drive through Montpelier, the Languedoc and Pyrenees in-between.

We did this exact route and it’s one of the best road trips we’ve ever done in Europe, showcasing some of France’s most beautiful landscapes with many cute towns in-between.

You could also extend it up the coast to Brittany and Normandy, or add in some of the Alsace region at the start. Another option would be to head inland to the Loire from Bordeaux. By doing all that, you’d cover most of France’s highlights.

Where to stay

• Lyon: Hôtel Charlemagne by Happyculture
• Avignon: Villa Pauline

4. North to South loop

Brussels – Pontorson – Saint Malo – Poitiers – Lyon – Grasse – Marseille – Dijon – Reims – Brussels

Clare at Backpacking Bella suggests this two-week France road trip loop that goes to north t south and then back again. It takes in some of her favourite France highlights, from the champagne region to the French Riviera.

Highlights

The first stop is Mont Saint Michel in Normandy to see France’s most popular attraction outside of Paris, the fairytale abbey on an island and one of the most beautiful places to visit in France. Then, take a short trip to Saint-Malo, Brittany’s historic port city and enjoy some of Brittany’s best food.

Head southeast to explore picturesque Poitiers, with its impressive Romanesque architecture. While you’re here, visit the nearby Futuroscope theme park, which is full of fun multimedia attractions and unique 4D movie experiences. 

Lyon is the next stop, with its historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the evenings, dine out at one of the city’s top restaurants or simply feast on its famous French tacos and listen to an open-air musical performance. 

On the French Riviera, get to know Grasse’s prestigious perfume industry at the Musée International de la Parfumerie and even create your own scent, before moving onto to Provence for a stop at Marseille’s Old Port.

Returning north, discover Burgundy’s delightful city of Dijon, which dates back to the Stone Age. Take a walking tour around its winding streets and taste its many local mustard flavours, which may surprise you. Finally, swing by Reims for a well-deserved tour of one of its famous champagne houses to try the regions different types of champagne and toast your fantastic France road trip.

Where to stay

• Mont Saint-Michel: Mercure Mont Saint Michel
• Grasse: La Bellaudiere
• Dijon: La Duchesse – Grand Appartement Au Coeur de Dijon

5. A medieval route in the Dordogne Valley

Bordeaux – Sarlat – Lacave – Terrasson – Perigueux – Bordeauxerigueux – Bordeaux

We haven’t yet visited the Dordogne, but Cindy Barke at Travel Bliss Now suggests this route through the medieval Dordogne Valley and some of the most beautiful villages in France

Highlights

Rent a car in Bordeaux and drive to the romantic village of Sarlat, spending 2-3 days to explore the prettiest villages in the Dordogne – Domme, Beynac and La Roque-Gageac.

Get the fairy-tale experience with a night in a luxurious castle in Lacave and a visit to the magical cliff-side village of Rocmadour. 

From Terrasson, learn about the region’s fascinating prehistoric roots with a visit to the of the International Center for Cave Art in Montignac Lascaux.

Before returning to Bordeaux, feast on local specialties like truffles, duck and walnuts in beautiful Perigueux.

Where to stay

• Sarlat-la-Canéda: Huttopia Sarlat
• Rocamadour: Hotel Beau Site

6. Loire Valley Road Trip: Chateaux Charm

Saumur – Chateau d’Usse – Chateau de Villandry – Chateau de Chenonceau – Chambord Chateau

Shelley at Life Journey for Two loves this three-day Loire Valley itinerary that takes you to five of the most impressive chateaux of the Loire Valley. 

Highlights

Starting in the historic pretty town of Saumur, the first chateau stop is the fairytale castle, Chateau d’Usse. This chateau is said to be the inspiration for the fairytale, ‘Sleeping Beauty’.  

Next, head to Chateau d’Azay-le-Rideau, set on an island on the River Indre. Views from the front and back give contrasting visions of this 12th-century feudal castle. 

Chateau de Villandry, your next stop, has what some call the most beautiful gardens in France, with sections of the manicured gardens representing four forms of love; fickle, tender, passionate and tragic love. 

Further along the Loire is Chateau de Chenonceau.  This has to be one of the most photogenic chateaux, as it spans the width of the river Cher and the reflections on the water make for an impressive sight. 

Your final stop is Chateau Chambord, the largest chateau in the Loire valley. You can access the gardens and wander around the many paths on the grounds and only need to pay admission fees for entrance to the chateau itself. 

It’s easy to alter this road trip to suit your tastes and time frames, as all of the vineyards, chateaux and historic towns are within easy reach of each other. Whether you have three days or three weeks you would be able to fill your time relaxing and soaking in the romantic, renaissance feel of the Loire valley.

[Note from Victoria: We also have a guide to things to do in the Loire Valley with kids]

Where to stay

• Saumur: Le Londres
• Azay-le Rideau: Hotel de Biencourt
• Chambord: Relais de Chambord

7. Route des Grand Alpes (with a detour)

Menton – Cerviéres – Chamonix – Lake Annecy

Kathryn Bird at Wandering Bird Adventures suggests this iconic Route des Grande Alpes. It starts in Lake Geneva and follows all the high mountain passes south until the French Riviera with a detour to Lake Annecy and Gorge du Fier.

Highlights

Start in Menton, which is a beautiful town with lots to explore. Stock up with road trip snacks here- you may not see an open shop for a while! Head north up to Cerviéres (don’t follow the sat nav- the Route des Grand Alpes is not the quickest route.)

The first couple of days you’ll be wowed by the scenery, wildlife and peace of the mountains, but once you arrive in Chamonix, prepare for some fun. There are bars and restaurants open all year, but the highlight for us was going up the Cable car onto Mont Blanc. Dress warmly (it’s COLD up there, even in summer) and get there as early as you can – stay overnight and go first thing in the morning to see the sun rise.

Lastly, enjoy the stunning location of Annecy. The colour of the lake is jaw-dropping and it’s a fun town to wander round (Note from Victoria: we have a full Annecy travel guide here)

Spend at least two nights at Annecy if you can and don’t forget to visit the Gorge du Fier a few miles away – a huge gorge you can walk into with a fast flowing river just beneath your feet. That was one of our highlights of the trip!

We did the trip in a leisurely three days- you can definitely do it faster, although don’t underestimate how steep the roads can be or how often you have to stop for cyclists.

Our itinerary was:

Day 1- Menton up to near Cerviéres

Day 2- Cerviéres to Chamonix

Day 3- Chamonix to Lake Annecy

Where to stay

• Lathuile: Les Jardins de Taillefer
• Annecy: Impérial Palace
• Menton: Hotel Pavillon Imperial

8. Alsace Road Trip

Colmar – Eguisheim – Riquewihr – Strasbourg

We love Alsace and have visited Colmar and Equisheim on our colourful Europe road trip. But if focussing on this region alone, Elisa at France Bucket List suggests this route, following the wine route of Alsace. You could combine it with the champagne route below.

Highlights

This itinerary follows part of the Wine Route of Alsace, from south to north. Start in Colmar, the most popular of the Alsatian villages, and wander around with no direction to admire its beautiful architecture and picturesque canals. In Colmar, we recommend doing a wine tasting session to get introduced to the wines of Alsace and perhaps buy your first bottles.

Visit the beautiful villages of Eguisheim and Riqewihr on a day trip from Colmar. The architecture is similar to the one of Colmar but each of these villages has some cute corners and details that make them unique. Visit one wine producer or two for wine tasting and more bottles of your (already) favorite Alsatian wines.

Drive north to Strasbourg, the capital of the region of Grand Est. Strasbourg is an international city home of the European Parliament. Wander around La Petite France, the historical centre of Strasbourg and admire its impressive Cathedral, built in Gothic style. If you are not afraid of heights climb up to the top of the bell tower. If there are no clouds you can see the Black Forest in Germany!

Where to stay

• We recommend sleeping in Colmar and Strasbourg, where there are more accommodation options. From there, you can visit the rest of the places on day trips. 
• Strasbourg: Comfort Hotel Strasbourg – Montagne Verte
• Colmar: Hotel Arc-en-Ciel

9. Champagne Road Trip

Epernay – Hautvillers – Reims

This champagne road trip, suggested by Norbert at World in Paris explores some of the most beautiful corners in the French region of Grand Est. You could extend it by doing the Alsace road trip above too.

Highlights

Epernay is one of the best day trips from Paris, but this time we are going further to explore more places of Champagne on a multi-day road trip.

From Paris, head to Epernay, the capital city of champagne. The road goes through rolling hills and vineyards, which are especially beautiful with the fall colors.

Take your time to visit Epernay, the city center has beautiful architecture. Epernay’s main street is Avenue de Champagne, flanked by the buildings of the most important Champagne houses in France. These champagne houses have kilometers and kilometers of wine cellars underground, that’s why Avenue de Champagne is considered the most expensive avenue in the world!

To get the most out of this tour, book well in advance your visit to Moët-Chandon wine cellar. This is a very popular tour so it gets sold out very fast, especially if you want to visit it during the weekend. During your visit, you will learn about champagne and the champagne-making process while visiting a part of their wine cellars. The tour finishes with a glass of champagne.

Spend the rest of the day in Hautvillers, a picturesque town at only 5 km from Epernay. Its abbey was home to Dom Perignon and you can still see his tomb at the foot of the main altar.

On the second day head to Reims, the capital of Champagne region. Explore the city’s historical center and be sure to visit Reim’s cathedral, a jewel of Gothic architecture. One day is enough to get the most out of Reims but you can decide to spend an extra day to complete your visit, perhaps also with a wine tasting tour.

Where to stay

• Epernay: Hotel Le Clos Raymi
• Reims: Hotel Holiday Inn Reims Center

10. Southwest France for Food and Wine Lovers

Toulouse – The Gers – Bordeaux

Shobha George at Just Go Places suggests exploring Toulouse and the Gers, part of France’s Occitanie region, for a less touristy alternative to Provence.

Highlights

Start your exploration of south-west France in Toulouse, a major city with several UNESCO world heritage sites, the Canal du Midi running through it, the headquarters of Airbus and the Toulouse Space Center. The city is called the Pink City because of the sandstone used in its building. The colours of the architecture are gorgeous in the warm summer sun. The food is diverse and international thanks to the local university population. For example, we found something called a French Taco (meat etc but wrapped in a French crepe). The traditional dish from Toulouse is cassoulet which is a beans and sausage dish.

Leave the city behind, and head into the countryside of the Gers region for its charming little villages. The capitol of the region, Auch is relatively large but most villages are tiny. The village of Marciac is known for its jazz festival. The local cuisine is delightful but not for vegetarians. The specialty of the region is foie gras, confit de canard and Armagnac. You can find foie gras on everything including pizza.

The last area to explore is Bordeaux, which reminded us of a little Paris in its architecture. The historic centre of Bordeaux is a UNESCO world heritage site. The best thing to do in Bordeaux is hang out in the sunshine and drink lots of great French red wine. Interactive and digital, we also found the Bordeaux Museum of Wine fascinating (even the kids agreed!).

Where to stay

• Toulouse: Mercure Toulouse Centre Saint-Georges
• Bordeaux: L’Appart D’Oli et Tiane

What to pack for a road trip in France

See our full guide on how to plan a road trip, and here are a few of our packing essentials…

• Aeropress
• Torch
• Packing cubes
• Emergency kit
• Portable stove
• Coolbox