The Ultimate 30-Day France Travel Itinerary
- tejaswiseth
- Apr 4
- 10 min read
Updated: Apr 22
Let's embark on a magnificent 30-day tour de France, exploring its diverse regions, iconic landmarks, culinary treasures, and captivating culture. This itinerary balances famous highlights with regional discoveries, ensuring a blend of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences.
France 30-Day Grand Tour: Your Ultimate Guide to Parisian Charm, Riviera Sun & Alpine Peaks
Why This 30-Day French Guide is Valuable For You:
Regional Immersion: Goes far beyond Paris, allowing you to experience the distinct character of multiple regions – Normandy's history, the Loire's châteaux, Provence's lavender fields (seasonal), the Riviera's glamour, the Alps' majesty, Alsace's unique culture, and Champagne's sparkle.
Paced for Joie de Vivre: Blends intensive sightseeing days with opportunities for leisurely market visits, scenic drives, wine tasting, relaxing café stops, enjoying apéritifs, and simply soaking up the French way of life.
Logical Flow: The itinerary follows a generally logical progression, starting in Paris, heading west, then south, east to the Alps, northeast, and looping back towards Paris, utilizing France's excellent transport network while minimizing backtracking.
A Feast for the Senses: Expect world-class art, stunning architecture (Gothic, Romanesque, Renaissance, modern), diverse landscapes (coastlines, mountains, vineyards, rolling countryside), incredible gastronomy (wine, cheese, regional specialties!), and rich history at every turn.
Flexibility Encouraged: Use this detailed 30-day France travel itinerary as your expert guide, but feel empowered to linger where you fall in love, choose alternative châteaux or villages, dedicate more time to hiking or museums, or follow a tempting detour. 30 days offers this wonderful freedom.
Smart Transport Mix: Relies heavily on France's superb high-speed train network (TGV) for efficient long-distance travel, supplemented by regional trains (TER) and strategic car rentals (essential for Loire Valley, Normandy countryside, Provence, Alsace Wine Route) for exploring specific regions freely.
France 30-Day Grand Tour: The Travel Itinerary
Pacing Legend:
(R) Relaxing: Slow pace, focus on scenery, food, culture, unwinding.
(M) Moderate: Mix of sightseeing, gentle walks, exploration.
(A) Adventurous: Hiking, significant walking, potentially long/active days.
(T) Travel: Significant driving/train travel time involved.
Part 1: Parisian Dreams & Royal Escapes (Days 1-5)
Day 1: Arrival in Paris (T/R)
Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY). Take RER train, bus (Roissybus/Orlybus), or taxi/ride-share to your accommodation (Le Marais, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Latin Quarter are popular central areas).
Check in. Gentle orientation walk: Île de la Cité (see Notre Dame exterior), Pont Neuf, stroll along the Seine.
Relaxing welcome dinner at a classic French bistro. Value: Smooth arrival, iconic first glimpses.
Day 2: Eiffel Tower, Arc & Champs-Élysées (M)
Morning: Ascend the Eiffel Tower (book tickets MONTHS ahead for specific times!). Enjoy the views from different levels. Walk the Champ de Mars.
Afternoon: Walk up (or take lift) the Arc de Triomphe for views down the Champs-Élysées and radiating avenues. Stroll down the famous avenue (window shopping). Consider a relaxing Seine river cruise. Value: Iconic landmarks, grand perspectives.
Day 3: Louvre Museum & Tuileries Garden (A)
Dedicate a significant portion of the day to the Louvre Museum (pre-book tickets!). Focus on key masterpieces (Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, Winged Victory) and specific wings/collections to avoid overwhelm.
Relax afterwards in the adjacent Tuileries Garden, connecting the Louvre to Place de la Concorde. Value: World-class art immersion.
Day 4: Montmartre Charm & Sacré-Cœur (M)
Explore the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre: Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica (stunning views), wander Place du Tertre (artists at work), explore charming streets, see the Moulin Rouge exterior.
Afternoon: Explore Canal Saint-Martin area (trendy boutiques, cafes) or visit Musée d'Orsay (Impressionist art in a former train station - pre-book). Value: Bohemian atmosphere, artistic heritage.
Day 5: Versailles Palace & Gardens Day Trip (A)
Take the RER C train to Versailles. Spend the day exploring the opulent Palace of Versailles (Château - pre-book timed entry!), the vast Gardens (rent bikes or golf cart for ease), Marie Antoinette's Estate (Petit Trianon, Hameau de la Reine). Wear comfortable shoes! Value: Royal grandeur, stunning gardens.
Part 2: Normandy History & Loire Châteaux (Days 6-11)
Day 6: Travel to Rouen & Normandy Capital (T/M)
Pick up rental car near Paris OR take a train to Rouen. Car recommended for Normandy/Loire.
Check into Rouen accommodation. Explore the historic centre: see the magnificent Rouen Cathedral (painted by Monet), Gros Horloge astronomical clock, Place du Vieux-Marché (Joan of Arc site). Value: Historical city, Gothic architecture.
Day 7: D-Day Landing Beaches & Memorials (A)
Drive to the Normandy D-Day landing beaches area (allow full day):
Visit key sites like Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc (ranger station), the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer. Visit one of the excellent museums (e.g., Caen Memorial, Arromanches 360 Cinema). A very moving and important historical experience. Value: Poignant WWII history.
Day 8: Bayeux Tapestry & Mont St Michel Journey (M/T)
Visit Bayeux to see the incredible Bayeux Tapestry depicting the Norman conquest of England. Explore Bayeux Cathedral.
Drive towards Mont St Michel (approx. 1.5-2 hours from Bayeux). Check into accommodation on the mainland nearby (or on the island itself - limited, expensive, requires planning). Witness the stunning view as you approach. Value: Unique historical artifact, journey towards iconic island.
Day 9: Mont St Michel Exploration (A)
Dedicate the day to exploring Mont St Michel (UNESCO site). Walk up the winding Grande Rue, visit the Abbey at the top (allow ample time), explore the ramparts. Experience the changing tides if possible. Arrive early or stay late to avoid peak crowds. Value: Iconic UNESCO site, unique tidal setting.
Day 10: Travel to Loire Valley (T/R)
Drive south from Mont St Michel area towards the Loire Valley (approx. 2.5-3.5 hours). Aim for a base near Tours, Amboise, or Blois.
Check into your accommodation (perhaps a charming guesthouse or château hotel). Relax and prepare for château hopping. Value: Scenic drive, arrival in château country.
Day 11: Loire Valley Châteaux Spectacle (M/A)
Explore some of the magnificent Loire Valley châteaux:
Choose 2-3 based on interest: e.g., Château de Chambord (grandest scale), Château de Chenonceau (arches over the river), Château de Villandry (stunning gardens), Château d'Amboise (royal history, Da Vinci connection).
Consider a local wine tasting (Vouvray, Chinon). Value: Fairytale castles, beautiful gardens, regional wine.
Part 3: Southbound to Provence & Riviera Sun (Days 12-19)
Day 12: Travel South to Provence (T)
Long travel day. Option A (Drive): Break the drive south with an overnight stop perhaps near Clermont-Ferrand or Lyon. Option B (Train): Drive to a TGV station (e.g., Tours St-Pierre-des-Corps), drop car, take high-speed train to Avignon TGV or Aix-en-Provence TGV. Pick up new rental car upon arrival (car highly recommended for Provence). Check into your Provence base (Avignon, St-Rémy, or a smaller Luberon village). Value: Efficient travel south.
Day 13: Avignon Papal Palace & Pont du Gard (M)
Explore Avignon: Visit the impressive Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes - UNESCO site), walk on the Pont d'Avignon (Pont Saint-Bénézet). Wander the historic centre.
Drive to the magnificent Pont du Gard (UNESCO site), an ancient Roman aqueduct. Value: Papal history, Roman engineering marvel.
Day 14: Luberon Villages & Lavender Fields (Seasonal) (M/A)
Explore the charming hilltop villages of the Luberon: Visit Gordes (stunning views, Sénanque Abbey nearby - lavender June/July), Roussillon (ochre cliffs), Ménerbes or Bonnieux.
Drive scenic routes. Visit a local market if timing allows (e.g., Apt on Saturday). Value: Picturesque villages, quintessential Provençal scenery.
Day 15: Les Baux-de-Provence & Saint-Rémy (M)
Visit the dramatic fortress ruins of Les Baux-de-Provence perched on a rocky outcrop. Consider the Carrières de Lumières multimedia art show nearby (unique experience).
Explore Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, known for Van Gogh connections (Saint-Paul de Mausole asylum) and Roman ruins (Glanum). Value: Dramatic ruins, artistic connections.
Day 16: Aix-en-Provence OR Verdon Gorge (M/A/T)
Option A (City): Day trip to elegant Aix-en-Provence. Walk the Cours Mirabeau, visit Cézanne's studio (optional), explore the market, enjoy the fountains.
Option B (Nature/Adventure): Longer day trip driving part of the stunning Gorges du Verdon ("Grand Canyon of Europe"). Stop at viewpoints like Point Sublime. Consider kayaking/pedalo on Lac de Sainte-Croix. Value: Elegant city experience or spectacular natural gorge.
Day 17: Travel to French Riviera (Nice) (T/R)
Drive east from Provence towards the Côte d'Azur (approx. 2-3 hours). Aim for Nice as a base (or potentially Antibes/Cannes).
Check into your accommodation. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais in Nice. Explore the Vieux Nice (Old Town). Value: Arrival on the glamorous Riviera.
Day 18: Nice & Villefranche-sur-Mer (M/R)
Explore Nice further: climb Castle Hill (Colline du Château) for panoramic views, visit the Cours Saleya flower/food market. Consider the Matisse Museum or Chagall Museum.
Take a short bus or train ride to the beautiful bay of Villefranche-sur-Mer for a relaxing afternoon. Value: Riviera capital, beautiful neighbouring bay.
Day 19: Monaco & Èze Day Trip (M/T)
Take the scenic coastal train or bus to Monaco. Visit the Prince's Palace (changing of the guard), Monte Carlo Casino area, Oceanographic Museum. Experience the unique atmosphere of the principality.
On the way back, stop at the stunning perched village of Èze. Visit the Jardin Exotique for incredible views. Value: Glamour of Monaco, breathtaking village views.
Part 4: Alpine Heights & Alsatian Charm (Days 20-25)
Day 20: Travel Towards the French Alps (Chamonix) (T)
Long travel day. Option A (Drive): Scenic but long drive inland towards the Alps (potentially via Route Napoléon section). Option B (Train): Train from Nice towards Annecy/Geneva/Chamonix area (likely involves changes, potentially via Lyon). Check train routes carefully.
Arrive in Chamonix valley, nestled below Mont Blanc. Check in. Value: Transition to dramatic alpine scenery.
Day 21: Aiguille du Midi & Mont Blanc Views (A) - Weather Dependent
Take the breathtaking Aiguille du Midi cable car up to 3,842m for spectacular close-up views of Mont Blanc and the surrounding peaks (book ahead, check weather!). Dress warmly! Allow time for acclimatization. Value: Unforgettable high-alpine experience.
Day 22: Montenvers Train & Mer de Glace / Hiking (M/A)
Take the Montenvers rack railway up to view the Mer de Glace glacier. Visit the ice cave (requires steps down/cable car access).
Enjoy hiking in the Chamonix valley – options range from easy valley floor walks (e.g., along the Arve river) to more challenging balcony trails (e.g., Grand Balcon Sud). Value: Glacier views, scenic train, hiking opportunities.
Day 23: Travel to Alsace (Strasbourg/Colmar) (T)
Long travel day. Option A (Drive): Long but potentially scenic drive across France or potentially dipping into Switzerland/Germany. Option B (Train): Train journey likely via Switzerland (e.g., Geneva/Basel) or back through France (e.g., Lyon/Mulhouse). Check connections.
Arrive in Alsace. Base yourself in Strasbourg or Colmar (or a smaller wine route village). Pick up rental car if taking train (car recommended for Alsace Wine Route). Value: Transition to unique eastern region.
Day 24: Strasbourg - Cathedral & Petite France (M)
If based in Strasbourg: Explore the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral (climb tower optional). Wander the charming Petite France district with its half-timbered houses and canals. Visit the European Quarter (optional). Value: Impressive cathedral, picturesque district.
Day 25: Alsace Wine Route & Villages (M/A)
Drive the scenic Alsace Wine Route (Route des Vins d'Alsace). Stop at fairytale villages like Riquewihr, Eguisheim, Kaysersberg. Admire the colourful half-timbered houses, flower boxes, and surrounding vineyards.
Visit a local winery for a tasting of Alsatian white wines (Riesling, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris). Visit Haut-Koenigsbourg castle (optional, impressive restored fortress). Value: Fairytale villages, wine tasting, scenic route.
Part 5: Champagne Sparkle & Return (Days 26-30)
Day 26: Travel to Champagne Region (Reims/Epernay) (T/M)
Drive or take train (via Strasbourg/Paris) towards the Champagne region. Aim for Reims or Epernay as a base.
Check in. Perhaps a first glimpse of Reims Cathedral. Value: Arrival in the famous sparkling wine region.
Day 27: Champagne House Tour & Tasting (M)
Visit one of the famous Champagne houses in Reims (e.g., Veuve Clicquot, Taittinger, Pommery) or along the Avenue de Champagne in Epernay (e.g., Moët & Chandon, Mercier). Take a tour of the cellars (crayères) and enjoy a tasting (booking essential!).
Visit Reims Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and coronation site of French kings. Value: Iconic Champagne experience, historical cathedral.
Day 28: Route Touristique du Champagne / Return to Paris Area (M/T)
Drive a section of the scenic 'Route Touristique du Champagne' through vineyards and small villages. Visit smaller grower-producer Champagne houses for a different experience.
Afternoon: Drive or take train back towards Paris (approx. 1.5 hours from Reims). Check into final accommodation near Paris or airport. Value: Scenic drive, exploring smaller producers.
Day 29: Final Paris Exploration / Buffer Day (R/M)
Use as a buffer day or for final Paris enjoyment: revisit a favourite neighbourhood, explore Père Lachaise Cemetery, visit Musée Rodin or Musée de l'Orangerie (Monet's Water Lilies), do last-minute souvenir shopping.
Enjoy a farewell French dinner. Value: Flexibility, final Parisian moments.
Day 30: Departure (T)
Enjoy a final croissant and French coffee.
Travel to Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airport for your departure.
Leave France with incredible memories of its beauty, culture, and cuisine!
Essential Tips for Your 30-Day French Trip:
Book Ahead: Crucial for Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, popular TGV routes (best prices), accommodation (especially in peak season/popular areas), key château entries, and Champagne house tours.
Transport: TGV high-speed trains are excellent for long distances. TER regional trains connect smaller towns. Renting a car is essential for exploring regions like Normandy, Loire Valley, Provence, Alsace Wine Route – be aware of tolls (péages), fuel costs, and city parking difficulties/costs. Public transport within Paris (Metro/RER/bus) is excellent.
Accommodation: Huge range: Hotels, apartments (Airbnb/Gîtes de France), B&Bs (chambres d'hôtes), hostels (auberges de jeunesse), charming rural inns (auberges). Book early for best choice/price.
Food Culture: Embrace French dining! Petit déjeuner (breakfast) is light (croissant/tartine). Lunch (déjeuner) is often substantial (look for formule or plat du jour set menus). Dinner (dîner) is later (8 PM onwards). Enjoy apéritifs, explore local markets (marchés), try regional cheeses, pastries (pâtisseries), and of course, the wine! Tipping is included in the service charge (service compris), but leaving small extra change for good service is common.
Language: French is the official language. While English is spoken in major tourist destinations and by many younger people, efforts to speak basic French (Bonjour, Merci, S'il vous plaît, Pardon, Au revoir) are very much appreciated, especially outside big cities.
Basic Etiquette: Always greet shopkeepers/staff with "Bonjour/Bonsoir Madame/Monsieur." Be polite. Dress code is generally smart casual, though more relaxed in beach areas.
Packing: Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable! Pack layers for variable weather. Include a smart casual outfit or two for evenings. Bring a light rain jacket. Sun protection needed, especially in the south.
Strikes (Grèves): Be aware that transport strikes can occasionally occur in France. Check news/transport apps if travelling during potential strike periods and have backup plans.
Bon voyage! Have an absolutely magnificent 30-day exploration of France!
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