From the sun-drenched Bordeaux vineyards to the snow-capped French Alps, a road journey across France offers a chance to really connect with the soul of the nation. This extensive guide presents multiple painstakingly created itineraries, each meant to highlight the special appeal of various French areas.
From visiting old cities and little towns to enjoying world-class cuisine and wine, these well chosen paths cover a great range of experiences. Whether your taste is for the elegant French Riviera, the gorgeous Loire Valley, or the rocky Normandy coast, this guide offers priceless information to enable you to arrange an amazing trip throughout one of Europe’s most fascinating nations.
Familiarize yourself with local driving rules, carefully map your itinerary, and choose lodging and food based on your French road trip adventure. This guide seeks to provide you the tools and knowledge required to maximize your time on the road, therefore guaranteeing a flawless and enriching experience as you negotiate the varied terrain and cultural fabric of France.
Planning Your French Road Trip
Starting a road trip throughout France calls for thorough preparation and planning to guarantee a flawless and fun journey. This part offers main ideas and useful guidelines for planning your trip.
Selecting the Ideal Time for Your Trip
The ideal timeframe for a road trip in France generally spans from late spring to early autumn, specifically from April to October. In these months, travelers may anticipate moderate temperatures and prolonged daylight, which are conducive to exploring the country’s varied regions. This period aligns with the inauguration of numerous tourist attractions and the accessibility of seasonal activities.
July and August represent the peak tourist season in France, marked by increased crowds and elevated prices for accommodations and services. Travelers seeking a tranquil experience and potentially more economical options should consider planning their trips during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September-October).
Essential Documentation and Legal Requirements
Prior to commencing your French road trip, ensure you have all necessary documentation in order. This includes:
- A valid passport
- An international driving permit (IDP) in addition to your regular driver’s license
- Vehicle registration documents (if driving your own car)
- Proof of insurance coverage valid in France
Acquaint yourself with French traffic laws and regulations, encompassing speed limits, parking restrictions, and required safety equipment for vehicles. Carrying a high-visibility vest, warning triangle, and spare bulbs in your vehicle is recommended, as these items are mandated by law in France.
Choosing the Right Vehicle
Selecting an appropriate vehicle for your road trip is crucial for comfort and practicality. Consider factors such as:
- The number of passengers and amount of luggage
- Fuel efficiency and environmental impact
- Ease of navigation on various road types (from highways to narrow village streets)
When renting a vehicle, it is essential to investigate reputable car rental agencies and evaluate their prices and terms. Advance booking typically results in more favorable rates and guarantees availability, particularly during high-demand travel periods.
Mapping Your Route
Create a thorough schedule that balances exploration possibilities with driving time. To project trip times and find areas of interest along your path, use travel guides and internet mapping tools. Don’t forget time for lunches, rest stops, and unplanned turns or surprises.
To fully enjoy the range of French culture and scenery, think of combining urban and rural sites. Let your calendar be flexible enough to allow for impromptu excursions or longer stays in especially intriguing sites.
Accommodation Planning
It is advisable to secure accommodations prior to travel, particularly when attending well-frequented tourist locations or during high-demand periods. Accommodation options include hotels, bed-and-breakfasts, vacation rentals, and camping sites. Examine the amenities and parking options provided by each accommodation to confirm they align with your requirements.
To achieve an immersive experience, one should consider unique accommodations, including châteaux, converted farmhouses, or treehouses, which are available in various regions of France.
By considering these essential elements of trip planning, one will be adequately prepared to undertake a memorable road trip across France, poised to investigate its varied regions, extensive history, and intriguing culture.
The Alsace Wine Route: A Journey Through France’s Oldest Wine Trail
The Alsace Wine Route exemplifies France’s extensive viticultural heritage, providing travelers with a distinctive opportunity to investigate one of the nation’s most scenic and historically important wine regions. This meticulously designed itinerary navigates the core of Alsace, integrating cultural exploration with wine-related experiences.
Day 1-2: Mulhouse – Gateway to Alsace
Start your trip in Mulhouse, a great city that’s a great place to start your Alsace experience.
Exploring Mulhouse’s Old Town
Spend your first day exploring the charming Old Town of Mulhouse. There are a lot of different architectural styles that show the city’s long past. The center square, Place de la Réunion, has some beautiful buildings, such as the Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) from the 16th century, which stands out with its pink front.
Museums of Industrial Heritage
Two world-class museums in Mulhouse show off the city’s industrial past:
- La Cité de l’Automobile: Home to the largest collection of automobiles in the world, including rare and vintage cars.
- La Cité du Train: Europe’s largest railway museum, offering a comprehensive look at the evolution of rail transport.
You can choose to visit one or both of the museums in Mulhouse, depending on your hobbies and the time you have.
Day 3-5: Colmar – The Heart of Alsatian Wine Country
Drive to Colmar, which is often called the “capital of Alsatian wine.” You’ll stay there for three nights.
Exploring Colmar’s Historic Center
Spend the whole day looking at the well-kept medieval and early Renaissance buildings in Colmar. Some important sites are:
- La Petite Venise: A picturesque canal quarter reminiscent of Venice
- Maison Pfister: A beautifully ornate 16th-century building
- Unterlinden Museum: Housing the famous Isenheim Altarpiece
Wine Tasting and Education
Learn about the customs and methods used to make wine in Alsace by visiting the Museum of Alsatian Wines. After this, go to one of Colmar’s many wine cellars for a taste of some local wines, like Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Pinot Gris.
Day Trips to Nearby Villages
Use Colmar as a base to explore charming nearby villages:
- Kaysersberg: Known for its colorful half-timbered houses and ruined castle
- Riquewihr: A beautifully preserved medieval town surrounded by vineyards
- Eguisheim: Circular in layout and filled with flower-bedecked streets
Each of these villages offers opportunities for wine tasting and scenic walks through surrounding vineyards.
Day 6-7: Strasbourg – Culmination of the Wine Route
End your trip along the Alsace Wine Route in Strasbourg, which is the capital of the area and home to many European institutions.
Strasbourg Cathedral and Petite France
Spend some time at the Gothic wonder that is Strasbourg Cathedral and take a walk through the charming Petite France neighborhood, which is known for its half-timbered houses and beautiful canals.
European Institutions
If you’re interested in modern European politics, you might want to see the European Parliament when it’s in session. It will be very different from the medieval charm of the area.
Final Wine Experiences
Conclude your Alsace Wine Route experience by visiting a local winery or wine bar in Strasbourg, contemplating the diverse flavors and traditions encountered throughout the journey.
This itinerary along the Alsace Wine Route integrates cultural exploration, historical discovery, and wine appreciation, highlighting the distinctive characteristics of this French region.
Paris to Nice: A Cross-Country Exploration of France’s Diverse Landscapes
Travelers on this all-encompassing road trip from Paris to Nice will be taken across the heart of France and experience the varied landscapes, rich history, and gastronomic perfection of this nation. Comprising a healthy mix of urban discovery and rural appeal, this 7-10 day trip culminates in the sun-soaked French Riviera.
Days 1-3: Paris – The City of Light
Start your trip in the French capital, giving plenty of time to discover its famous sites and understated treasures.
Essential Parisian Experiences
- Visit the Eiffel Tower, preferably at sunset for breathtaking views
- Explore the Louvre Museum, home to countless artistic masterpieces
- Stroll along the Champs-Élysées and admire the Arc de Triomphe
- Take a Seine river cruise to see Paris from a different perspective
Day Trip to Versailles
Spend one day seeing the magnificent Palace of Versailles, touring its great halls and painstakingly maintained gardens.
Day 4: Beaune – Gateway to Burgundy
Leave Paris and go southeast to Beaune, the Burgundy wine capital.
Exploring Beaune
- Visit the Hospices de Beaune, a former charitable hospital known for its distinctive colored roof tiles
- Take a stroll through the historic town center, admiring its well-preserved medieval architecture
- Participate in a wine tasting session at one of the town’s many cellars, focusing on renowned Burgundy varietals
Day 5: Lyon – Culinary Capital of France
Continue to Lyon, a city honored for its gastronomic legacy.
Lyon’s Culinary and Cultural Highlights
- Explore the Vieux Lyon (Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Visit Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a covered market showcasing the finest local produce
- Dine at a traditional Lyonnaise bouchon to experience authentic local cuisine
- Ascend Fourvière Hill for panoramic views of the city
Day 6: Valence – Gateway to Provence
Drive south to Valence, marking your entry into the Provence region.
Valence Attractions
- Visit the Maison des Têtes, a Renaissance building adorned with sculpted heads
- Stroll through the Parc Jouvet, offering beautiful views of the Rhône Valley
- Sample local specialties, including Valence’s famous Suisse, a shortbread figurine
Day 7: Avignon – City of Popes
Continue to Avignon, a city steeped in papal history.
Avignon’s Historical Sites
- Tour the imposing Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe
- Walk on the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet, also known as the Pont d’Avignon
- Explore the charming streets of the old town, filled with boutiques and cafes
Day 8: Marseille – Mediterranean Port City
Head to Marseille, France’s oldest city and bustling Mediterranean port.
Marseille’s Maritime Heritage
- Visit the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica for sweeping city views
- Explore the vibrant Vieux-Port (Old Port) area
- Take a boat trip to the Calanques National Park, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters
Days 9-10: Nice – Pearl of the French Riviera
Conclude your journey in Nice, the capital of the French Riviera.
Nice’s Coastal Charm
- Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, taking in the Mediterranean views
- Explore the colorful streets of Vieux Nice (Old Nice)
- Visit the Musée Matisse to see works by the famous artist who called Nice home
- Relax on one of Nice’s beautiful beaches, reflecting on your cross-country adventure
From the busy capital to the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast, this Paris to Nice road journey provides a thorough picture of France’s many provinces. It offers visitors a whole experience of French culture and landscapes by combining historical inquiry, gastronomic excursions, and natural beauty.
Normandy Road Trip: A Journey Through History and Coastal Beauty
This five-day Normandy road trip has the ideal mix of scenic surroundings, historical importance, and little coastal towns. Beginning in Paris, this schedule guides you through some of the most famous places in Normandy, therefore enabling you to fully experience the rich legacy and natural beauty of the area.
Day 1: Paris to Giverny and Les Andelys
Begin your Normandy adventure by departing from Paris and heading towards Giverny.
Giverny: Monet’s Inspiration
- Visit Claude Monet’s house and gardens, the setting that inspired many of his famous water lily paintings
- Explore the Musée des Impressionnismes to further understand the artistic movement that flourished in this region
Les Andelys and Château Gaillard
After Giverny, continue to Les Andelys:
- Climb to the ruins of Château Gaillard, a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart
- Enjoy panoramic views of the Seine Valley from the castle’s vantage point
End your day by driving to Rouen, where you’ll spend the next two nights.
Day 2: Rouen – Capital of Normandy
Dedicate a full day to exploring Rouen, a city rich in medieval history and architectural beauty.
Rouen’s Historical Center
- Visit the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, famously painted by Claude Monet
- Explore the Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was executed
- Wander through the Rue du Gros-Horloge, admiring the astronomical clock and half-timbered houses
Day 3: Étretat and Honfleur
Depart Rouen and head towards the coast, making stops at two of Normandy’s most picturesque towns.
Étretat’s Dramatic Cliffs
- Marvel at the iconic chalk cliffs and natural arches of Étretat
- Take a cliff-top walk for breathtaking views of the English Channel
Charming Honfleur
Continue to Honfleur, a picturesque port town:
- Explore the Old Harbor (Vieux Bassin), surrounded by slate-covered houses
- Visit the wooden Church of Saint Catherine, France’s largest wooden church
Spend the night in Honfleur, soaking in its artistic atmosphere.
Day 4: D-Day Beaches and Bayeux
This day is dedicated to exploring the historic D-Day landing sites and the medieval town of Bayeux.
D-Day Beaches
- Visit Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer
- Explore the Arromanches artificial harbor, a testament to the scale of the Allied invasion
Bayeux
In the afternoon, head to Bayeux:
- View the famous Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of England
- Admire the Gothic architecture of Bayeux Cathedral
Day 5: Mont Saint-Michel
Conclude your Normandy road trip with a visit to one of France’s most iconic landmarks.
Exploring Mont Saint-Michel
- Walk across the causeway to the island (or take the shuttle)
- Tour the abbey complex, marveling at its medieval architecture
- Explore the narrow streets and ramparts of the island
From impressionist art and medieval architecture to World War II history and natural beauty, this Normandy road trip provides a thorough perspective of the varied attractions of the area. It highlights the finest of Normandy by offering a great mix of cultural discovery and scenic beauty.
Champagne Road Trip: Bubbles and History in Northeast France
This four-day Champagne road tour winds throughout the most famous sparkling wine area in France. Beginning in Paris, you will tour world-class champagne houses, charming vineyards, and historic cities to learn about the art and science of champagne making.
Day 1: Paris to Reims
Depart Paris and head east towards Reims, the unofficial capital of the Champagne region.
Stop at La Ferté-sous-Jouarre
En route to Reims, make a brief stop at La Ferté-sous-Jouarre:
- Visit the town’s abbey, home to two remarkable 7th-century Merovingian crypts
- Take a short stroll along the Marne River, appreciating the town’s quaint atmosphere
Exploring Reims
Arrive in Reims and begin your exploration:
- Visit the magnificent Reims Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site where French kings were once crowned
- Tour one or two of Reims’ famous champagne houses, such as Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger, learning about the champagne-making process and enjoying tastings
Spend the night in Reims, perhaps indulging in a champagne-paired dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Reims to Épernay
Today, you’ll journey from Reims to Épernay, another key town in the Champagne region.
The Avenue de Champagne in Épernay
- Stroll down the Avenue de Champagne, lined with impressive champagne houses
- Visit Moët & Chandon, one of the world’s largest champagne producers, for a tour and tasting
Hautvillers and Dom P érignon
In the afternoon, drive to the nearby village of Hautvillers:
- Visit the Abbey of Saint-Pierre, where Dom Pérignon is buried
- Learn about the monk’s contributions to the development of champagne
- Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards
End your day with a stay at Château d’Etoges, a charming château-hotel nestled among the vineyards.
Day 3: Épernay to Troyes
Depart Épernay and head south to the historic city of Troyes.
Exploring Troyes
- Wander through the well-preserved medieval old town, admiring the half-timbered houses
- Visit the Troyes Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture
- Explore the Museum of Modern Art, housed in the former Episcopal Palace
For those interested in shopping, Troyes is known for its factory outlets, offering designer brands at discounted prices.
Day 4: Troyes to Provins
On your final day, travel from Troyes to the medieval town of Provins.
Discovering Provins
- Explore the well-preserved medieval ramparts and fortified gates
- Visit the Tour César, a 12th-century tower offering panoramic views of the town
- Descend into the underground tunnels, part of the town’s medieval defensive system
Spend some time thinking back on your trip across the Champagne area, maybe with a last glass of bubbly at a nearby wine bar, before going back to Paris.
This Champagne road trip lets visitors fully experience the rich history and customs of this world-class area by combining historical discovery with wine appreciation.
Cathar Country Road Trip: Exploring Medieval Southern France
This five to six day road tour in southern France’s Cathar Country provides a drive across a scene rich in medieval history filled with magnificent castles and charming towns. The path investigates important locations connected to the Cathar religious movement and the following crusade against them.
Day 1-2: Carcassonne
Begin your journey in the fortified city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Exploring Carcassonne
- Tour the impressive medieval citadel, La Cité, with its double ring of ramparts and 53 towers
- Visit the Château Comtal within the citadel for a deeper understanding of medieval warfare
- Explore the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, known for its Gothic-Romanesque architecture
Take time to wander the narrow streets of the old town, soaking in the medieval atmosphere.
Day 3: Mirepoix and Château de Montségur
Depart Carcassonne for a day of exploration in the Ariège department.
Mirepoix
Start with a visit to the charming town of Mirepoix:
- Admire the well-preserved medieval square, Place des Couverts, surrounded by half-timbered houses
- Visit the Cathédrale Saint-Maurice, known for its wide nave and unique frescoes
Château de Montségur
Continue to the iconic Château de Montségur:
- Hike up to the castle ruins, perched dramatically on a rocky peak
- Learn about the castle’s significance as the last Cathar stronghold and its tragic fall in 1244
End your day in the village of Cucugnan, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 4: Château de Peyrepertuse and Château de Quéribus
Today focuses on two of the most spectacular “Cathar castles” in the region.
Château de Peyrepertuse
Begin with a visit to Château de Peyrepertuse:
- Marvel at the castle’s integration with its rocky perch, earning it the nickname “celestial Carcassonne”
- Explore the lower and upper castles, connected by the spectacular “stairway to heaven”
Château de Quéribus
In the afternoon, visit Château de Quéribus:
- Climb to this isolated fortress, often considered the last Cathar stronghold
- Enjoy panoramic views stretching from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean
Spend the night in the picturesque village of Fontjoncouse.
Day 5: Fontfroide Abbey and Lagrasse
Today’s itinerary focuses on two important religious sites that played roles in the Cathar crusades.
Fontfroide Abbey
Start your day at Fontfroide Abbey:
- Tour this well-preserved Cistercian monastery, noting its role in the Albigensian Crusade
- Explore the church, cloister, and chapter house, admiring the Romanesque and Gothic architecture
Lagrasse
In the afternoon, visit the medieval village of Lagrasse:
- Cross the 12th-century bridge to explore the Abbey of Saint Mary of Orbieu
- Wander the narrow streets of this “Most Beautiful Village of France,” known for its artisanal crafts
Day 6: Minerve and Lastours
On your final day, visit two more significant Cathar sites before returning to Carcassonne.
Minerve
Begin with a visit to the village of Minerve:
- Explore this natural fortress town, dramatically situated on a rocky peninsula
- Learn about the siege of Minerve and its role in the Cathar crusade
Châteaux de Lastours
Conclude your trip with a visit to the Châteaux de Lastours:
- Hike up to view the four castles perched on a rocky spur
- Visit the archaeological museum to learn more about the site’s history
Go back to Carcassonne and consider the dramatic settings and turbulent past you have come across on your travel across Cathar Country.
Set amid breathtaking natural beauty and architectural wonders, this road tour across Cathar Country provides a thorough immersion into a remarkable time of medieval French history.
Route des Grands Crus: A Burgundy Wine Odyssey
Wine drinkers and history aficionados will find an immersive experience in one of France’s most well-known wine regions on this four-day road tour across the Route des Grands Crus in Burgundy. Showcasing the finest of Burgundian wine and culture, the trip winds past gorgeous villages, ancient landmarks, and world-class vineyards.
Day 1: Beaune – The Wine Capital of Burgundy
Begin your Burgundy adventure in Beaune, the region’s wine capital and a town steeped in history.
Exploring Beaune
- Visit the Hospices de Beaune, a former charitable hospital known for its stunning polychrome roof and annual wine auction
- Tour the Maison des Climats, an interpretive center that explains Burgundy’s unique terroir and wine classification system
- Explore the old town, with its charming cobblestone streets and well-preserved medieval buildings
In the evening, enjoy a wine tasting session at one of Beaune’s many cellars, focusing on the region’s famous Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
Day 2: Beaune to Nuits-Saint-Georges
Depart Beaune and head north along the Route des Grands Crus, making stops at key wine villages.
Pommard and Volnay
- Visit a winery in Pommard, known for its full-bodied red wines
- Continue to Volnay, famous for its elegant and feminine Pinot Noirs
Nuits-Saint-Georges
Arrive in Nuits-Saint-Georges, a town synonymous with fine Burgundy wines:
- Explore the town center, noting its wine-related architecture and history
- Visit the Cassissium, a museum dedicated to crème de cassis, the blackcurrant liqueur used in Kir and Kir Royal
End your day with a guided tasting at a local domaine, comparing wines from different appellations within the Côte de Nuits.
Day 3: Vougeot and the Cistercian Influence
Today’s journey focuses on the historical connection between Cistercian monks and Burgundy’s wine heritage.
Château du Clos de Vougeot
Start your day at the iconic Château du Clos de Vougeot:
- Tour the château, originally built as a wine farm by Cistercian monks in the 12th century
- Learn about traditional winemaking techniques and the concept of terroir in the ancient cellar and winery
Abbey of Cîteaux
In the afternoon, visit the Abbey of Cîteaux:
- Explore the birthplace of the Cistercian order, which played a crucial role in developing Burgundy’s wine industry
- Visit the abbey church and learn about monastic life and its influence on viticulture
Return to Vougeot for the night, perhaps enjoying a meal paired with local wines at a traditional Burgundian restaurant.
Day 4: Gevrey-Chambertin to Dijon
On your final day, continue north to Gevrey-Chambertin before concluding your trip in Dijon.
Gevrey-Chambertin
- Visit this village known for producing some of Burgundy’s most prestigious red wines
- Take a walk through the vineyards, observing the different parcels and their classifications
Dijon
Conclude your Route des Grands Crus journey in Dijon, the capital of Burgundy:
- Follow the Owl’s Trail, a self-guided tour of the city’s main attractions marked by brass owl plaques
- Visit the Palais des Ducs et des États de Bourgogne, home to the Musée des Beaux-Arts
- Explore the Les Halles covered market, sampling local specialties like Dijon mustard and pain d’épices
Spend some time before leaving contemplating your Burgundy wine odyssey, maybe with a last glass of wine at one of Dijon’s atmospheric wine bars.
Combining historical inquiry with oenological education, this Route des Grands Crus road trip presents a thorough introduction to Burgundy’s wine legacy. It makes visitors really value the terroir, winemaking customs, and cultural relevance of the area.
Jura: Eastern France’s Hidden Gem
This four-day road trip in Eastern France’s Jura region presents visitors with a special chance to discover an area sometimes disregarded by foreign visitors. Renowned for its unique wines, gorgeous scenery, and rich culinary customs, the Jura offers the ideal mix of natural beauty and cultural encounters.
Day 1: Baume-les-Messieurs and Cascade des Tufs
Begin your Jura adventure in the picturesque village of Baume-les-Messieurs.
Exploring Baume-les-Messieurs
- Wander through this classified “Most Beautiful Village of France,” nestled in a reculée (blind valley)
- Visit the Imperial Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery with a rich history dating back to the 6th century
- Explore the village’s charming streets, noting the traditional Jurassian architecture
Cascade des Tufs
In the afternoon, head to the nearby Cascade des Tufs:
- Take a short hike to view this stunning waterfall, one of the most beautiful in the Jura
- Observe the unique tufa formations created by the mineral-rich water
End your day in the nearby town of Doucier, where you can enjoy a meal featuring local specialties such as Comté cheese and Bresse chicken.
Day 2: Lakes and Waterfalls of the Jura
Today’s itinerary focuses on the natural beauty of the Jura’s lakes and waterfalls.
Belvédère des Quatre Lacs
Start your day with a hike to the Belvédère des Quatre Lacs:
- Follow the 12km trail that offers panoramic views of four lakes: Ilay, Petit Maclu, Grand Maclu, and Narlay
- Continue to the Pic de l’Aigle for even more spectacular vistas of the Jura landscape
Cascades du Hérisson
In the afternoon, visit the Cascades du Hérisson:
- Embark on the 3.7km trail that passes seven waterfalls, including the impressive 65-meter-high Grand Saut
- Learn about the area’s flora and fauna at the Maison des Cascades visitor center
Spend the night in the charming village of Château-Chalon, perched atop a cliff overlooking the Jura vineyards.
Day 3: Château-Chalon and Jura Wines
Dedicate this day to exploring Château-Chalon and the unique wines of the Jura.
Château-Chalon Village
- Explore this medieval village, famous for producing Vin Jaune, the Jura’s iconic “yellow wine”
- Visit the Maison de la Haute Seille to learn about the region’s winemaking traditions
- Take in the panoramic views of the Jura vineyards from the village’s belvedere
Jura Wine Tasting
Spend the afternoon visiting local wineries:
- Sample Vin Jaune, aged for six years and three months under a layer of yeast
- Try other local specialties like Crémant du Jura (sparkling wine) and Macvin (fortified wine)
- Learn about the unique Savagnin grape variety, indigenous to the Jura
End your day with a traditional Jurassian meal paired with local wines.
Day 4: Dole – Historical Capital of Franche-Comté
Conclude your Jura road trip with a visit to Dole, the former capital of Franche-Comté.
Exploring Dole
- Stroll through the well-preserved old town, noting its Renaissance architecture
- Visit the birthplace of Louis Pasteur, now a museum dedicated to the famous scientist
- Take a boat ride along the Doubs River and the Canal des Tanneurs for a unique perspective of the city
Culinary Farewell
Before departing, indulge in a final taste of Jura cuisine:
- Try local specialties like poulet au vin jaune et aux morilles (chicken with yellow wine and morel mushrooms)
- Sample regional cheeses such as Morbier and Bleu de Gex
This Jura road trip presents the ideal fusion of historical discovery, culinary pleasures, and natural beauty. It offers visitors a really real French experience away from the more popular places, therefore highlighting the special character of this sometimes disregarded neighborhood.
Loire Valley: Châteaux and Wine Country
Often known as the “Garden of France,” this 3-day road journey throughout the Loire Valley presents the ideal fusion of architectural wonders, historical importance, and world-class wines. The trip winds through some of France’s most remarkable châteaux, charming towns, and magnificent vineyards.
Day 1: Nantes to Saumur
Begin your Loire Valley adventure in Nantes, heading east towards Saumur.
Château d’Ussé
En route to Saumur, make a stop at Château d’Ussé:
- Explore this fairy-tale castle, said to have inspired Charles Perrault’s “Sleeping Beauty”
- Admire the blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture
- Stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens
Château de Villandry
Continue to Château de Villandry:
- Marvel at the meticulously designed Renaissance gardens, including ornamental vegetable gardens
- Tour the château’s interior, noting its blend of different architectural styles
Arrive in Saumur for the evening, known for its sparkling wines and impressive fortress.
Day 2: Saumur and Surroundings
Dedicate this day to exploring Saumur and its environs.
Saumur
- Visit the imposing Château de Saumur, perched high above the Loire River
- Explore the historic town center with its half-timbered houses and churches
- Tour one of the local wine caves to taste Saumur’s famous sparkling wines
Fontevraud Abbey
In the afternoon, visit Fontevraud Abbey:
- Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, one of the largest monastic complexes in Europe
- Visit the tombs of Eleanor of Aquitaine, Henry II, and Richard the Lionheart
Return to Saumur for the night, perhaps enjoying a dinner of local specialties paired with Loire Valley wines.
Day 3: Chenonceau and Amboise
Depart Saumur and head east to two of the Loire Valley’s most famous châteaux.
Château de Chenonceau
Start your day at the elegant Château de Chenonceau:
- Admire the castle’s unique architecture, spanning the Cher River
- Explore the lavishly decorated interior rooms
- Stroll through the formal gardens and maze
Amboise
Continue to the town of Amboise:
- Visit the Royal Château d’Amboise, a favorite residence of French kings
- Explore Clos Lucé, the final home of Leonardo da Vinci
- Wander through the charming old town
Spend the night in Amboise, enjoying the town’s lively atmosphere and riverside setting.
