France

North

Paris: Explore the Iconic Landmarks and Parisian Life

  • Ascend the Eiffel Tower for panoramic city views.
  • Wander through the artistic neighborhood of Montmartre and visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
  • Stroll along the Seine River and admire Notre-Dame Cathedral.
  • Immerse yourself in art and history at the Louvre Museum.
  • Experience the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles.
  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Latin Quarter.
  • Sit by the river Seine and enjoy an "Apéro" with a bottle of wine and some snacks.

Biarritz, Hossegor, and the Basque/Landes Coast: Surfing Capital and Elegant Charm

  • Experience Biarritz, an elegant former royal resort with iconic beaches and a vibrant surf culture.
  • Surf renowned spots in Biarritz like Grande Plage (all levels) and Côte des Basques (mid-high tide).
  • Discover Hossegor, a world-famous surfing destination just north of Biarritz, known for powerful beach breaks like La Gravière and La Nord (experts only).
  • Explore other Hossegor surf spots such as Les Culs Nuls (consistent), La Sud (beginners/longboarders), and Anglet's Chambre d'Amour (reef breaks).
  • Enjoy panoramic views from Rocher de la Vierge and the Biarritz Lighthouse.
  • Explore marine life at the Musée de la Mer in Biarritz and admire the Hôtel du Palais (Villa Eugénie).
  • Savor Basque flavors and the market atmosphere at Les Halles in Biarritz, indulging in pintxos.
  • Discover nearby Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the border town of Hendaye.
  • Venture to charming inland Basque villages like Espelette and Sare.
  • Consider a visit to Biscarrosse further north, offering surfing for all levels along its sandy beaches.

Nouvelle-Aquitaine: Diverse Landscapes and Culture

  • Explore Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage city famous for its vineyards, elegant 18th-century architecture (Place de la Bourse), and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Visit the Dune of Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune, near Arcachon, offering stunning views of the Atlantic coast and the Landes forest.
  • Discover the charming town of Saint-Émilion and its surrounding UNESCO-listed wine region, known for its prestigious châteaux and medieval architecture.
  • Explore the historic city of Périgueux with its Roman ruins (the Vesunna Gallo-Roman Museum) and medieval center (Cathédrale Saint-Front).
  • Discover the caves of Lascaux near Montignac, famous for their Paleolithic cave paintings (Lascaux II is a detailed replica open to the public).
  • Explore the city of Limoges, known for its fine porcelain.
  • Discover the Poitou-Charentes region within Nouvelle-Aquitaine, including the historic city of Poitiers and the Futuroscope theme park.
  • Visit La Rochelle, a beautiful coastal city with its historic harbor and medieval towers.

Pays de la Loire: Châteaux, Coast, and Vineyards

  • Visit Nantes, explore the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the whimsical Machines de l'Île, and the Passage Pommeraye.
  • Discover the Loire Valley châteaux in this region, such as Château d'Angers with the Tapestry of the Apocalypse, Château de Saumur, and Château de Brissac.
  • Explore the historic city of Le Mans, famous for its 24-hour car race and its well-preserved old town (Cité Plantagenêt) and the Musée des 24 Heures.
  • Relax on the beaches of the Atlantic coast, such as those in La Baule (known for its long sandy beach), Pornichet, and Saint-Jean-de-Monts.
  • Explore the salt marshes of Guérande, a unique landscape with traditional salt production.
  • Discover the vineyards around Saumur, known for its sparkling wines (Crémant de Loire) and still wines (Saumur-Champigny).
  • Visit the island of Noirmoutier, famous for its causeway (Passage du Gois) passable at low tide and its salt marshes.
  • Explore the city of Angers, with its medieval castle and the Musée des Beaux-Arts.
  • Discover the Puy du Fou theme park, renowned for its historical reenactments.

Centre-Val de Loire: Loire Valley Charm and History

  • Explore the iconic Loire Valley châteaux, including Château de Chambord (the largest), Château de Chenonceau (spanning the Cher River), and Château de Villandry (renowned for its Renaissance gardens).
  • Visit the historic city of Orléans, associated with Joan of Arc (Maison de Jeanne d'Arc, Cathédrale Sainte-Croix).
  • Discover the charming town of Blois and its royal château, showcasing different architectural styles.
  • Explore the vineyards of Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé, known for their Sauvignon Blanc white wines, and enjoy wine tastings.
  • Visit the medieval city of Bourges and its Gothic cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site), as well as the Palais Jacques-Cœur.
  • Discover the Château de Cheverny, which inspired Marlinspike Hall in Tintin, and its impressive interiors.
  • Explore the Château d'Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years.
  • Visit the Château de Valençay, once home to Talleyrand.
  • Discover the gardens of Château de Chaumont-sur-Loire and its annual garden festival.

Brittany: Explore the History and Culture

  • Discover its rugged coastline, charming fishing ports, and sandy beaches.
  • Explore medieval towns like Dinan and Quimper.
  • Visit ancient megalithic sites like Carnac.
  • Experience the unique Breton culture and language.
  • Savor local specialties like sweet crêpes (often enjoyed in crêperies throughout Brittany, especially in towns like Rennes, Saint-Malo, and Quimper).
  • Visit a traditional "cidrerie" in regions like Cornouaille or along the "Route du Cidre".
  • Wander through other charming local villages, such as Rochefort-en-Terre (often voted one of France's prettiest villages) and Josselin (with its impressive château).

Normandy: Discover the Charm and History

  • Visit the stunning Mont-Saint-Michel, a tidal island abbey.
  • Explore the picturesque harbor town of Honfleur.
  • Indulge in local cheeses like Camembert and Livarot.
  • See the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting the Norman conquest of England.
  • Explore the dramatic cliffs of Étretat.
  • Relax on the sandy beaches of Deauville and Trouville.
  • Explore the Cider Route with its orchards and producers.
  • Discover the Gardens of Giverny, Monet's inspiring home.
  • Admire the Gothic Rouen Cathedral.
  • Discover the Art Deco architecture of cities like Le Havre.
  • Drive through charming villages with half-timbered houses, such as Beuvron-en-Auge (known for its floral displays) and Lyons-la-Forêt (a former royal town).

Picardy (Hauts-de-France): History, Cathedrals, and Coast

  • Explore Amiens and its stunning Gothic cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site), as well as the Hortillonnages floating gardens.
  • Visit the Somme Bay (Baie de Somme), a beautiful natural area known for its diverse wildlife, birdwatching, and charming towns like Saint-Valery-sur-Somme.
  • Visit significant World War I memorial sites and cemeteries throughout the region, such as the Thiepval Memorial and the Australian National Memorial.
  • Discover the charming coastal town of Le Crotoy in the Somme Bay, known for its fishing port and sandy beach.
  • Explore the underground city of Naours (Cité souterraine de Naours), a fascinating historical site used as a refuge for centuries.

The Northern Coastline (Côte d'Opale): Beyond Saint-Valery-sur-Somme

  • Explore Calais, an important port city with ferry connections to the UK and the Cité Internationale de la Dentelle et de la Mode.
  • Visit Boulogne-sur-Mer, home to Nausicaá, one of Europe's largest aquariums, and a historic old town (Ville Fortifiée).
  • Hike along the dramatic cliffs and capes of Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez, offering stunning views of the English Channel and the White Cliffs of Dover.
  • Explore the historic fortifications of Montreuil-sur-Mer, famous for its connection to Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables."
  • Visit the charming port town of Saint-Valery-sur-Somme, with its medieval ramparts and the Herbarium des Remparts gardens.

Lille and the Flemish Region: Art and Culture

  • Discover the Flemish influences and vibrant culture of Lille.
  • Visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts in Lille.
  • Explore the Lens Louvre.
  • Wander through the charming historic centers of towns like Arras.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of the local markets.
  • Savor traditional dishes like carbonnade flamande.
  • Sample regional beers and explore local breweries.
  • Indulge in sweet treats like waffles and speculoos.
  • Visit local "estaminets" for an authentic dining experience.
  • Attend the Grande Braderie de Lille (September).

Champagne-Ardenne: Sparkling Wines and History

  • Visit Reims, explore its magnificent cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and tour prestigious Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot and Taittinger.
  • Discover Épernay, the "Capital of Champagne," and stroll along the Avenue de Champagne lined with renowned estates such as Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët.
  • Learn about the Champagne-making process and enjoy tastings at local cellars, including smaller independent producers.
  • Explore the historic city of Troyes with its medieval architecture, and the Musée d'Art Moderne.
  • Discover the natural beauty of the Regional Natural Park of the Orient Forest lakes, offering opportunities for water sports and hiking.

South

The French Alps: Nature and Adventure

  • Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in resorts like Chamonix-Mont-Blanc, Courchevel, and Val d'Isère.
  • Hike through trails in Vanoise, Écrins, and Mercantour National Parks.
  • Visit Annecy, the "Venice of the Alps," and its lake.
  • Ride the Aiguille du Midi cable car for Mont Blanc views from Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
  • Experience adventure activities like paragliding, rafting, canyoning in areas like the Verdon Gorge.
  • Discover alpine towns like Briançon (a UNESCO site with fortifications).
  • Discover alpine towns like Grenoble (with its cable cars and history).
  • Hike or bike around lakes like Lac Léman and Lac du Bourget.
  • Drive the scenic Route des Grandes Alpes.
  • Visit the Mer de Glace glacier near Chamonix-Mont-Blanc.
  • Discover thermal baths and spa towns like Aix-les-Bains and Évian-les-Bains, offering relaxation in the Alps.

Lyon: A Gateway to Southern France

  • Explore the unique architecture and gastronomy of Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage city.
  • Wander through the traboules (hidden passageways) of Lyon's Vieux Lyon (Old Town), uncovering secret courtyards and historical connections between streets.
  • Savor the culinary delights of Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, by indulging in local specialties like quenelles and praline tart at traditional bouchons.

Discover the History, Art, and Landscapes of Provence

  • Wander through the lavender fields around the Valensole plateau (seasonal).
  • Explore the Roman ruins in Arles (Amphitheatre, Antique Theatre).
  • In Nîmes, explore the Roman ruins (Arena, Maison Carrée), visit the Carré d'Art and Musée de la Romanité museums, stroll through the beautiful Jardins de la Fontaine, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Les Halles market.
  • Discover charming hilltop villages like Gordes (known for its stunning stone architecture perched on a cliff), Roussillon (with its vibrant ochre cliffs and colorful houses), and Les Baux-de-Provence (with its medieval fortress offering panoramic views).
  • Immerse yourself in Van Gogh's art in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence (Saint-Paul Mausoleum), where he painted some of his most famous works.
  • Enjoy the vibrant markets in Aix-en-Provence, filled with local produce, flowers, cheeses, and the lively atmosphere of Provençal life.
  • Visit the Palais des Papes in Avignon, a formidable Gothic palace.
  • Enjoy vibrant markets in Avignon, offering regional specialties and a taste of local culture.
  • Explore the medieval architecture of Uzès.
  • Discover the Fontaine de Vaucluse, the source of the Sorgue River.
  • Explore the charming villages of the Luberon, including Ménerbes, Bonnieux, and Lacoste.
  • Explore the unique landscapes of the Camargue region: spot wild horses and flamingos.

Experience the Glamour and Culture of the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur)

  • Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais and enjoy the Belle Époque architecture in Nice.
  • Immerse yourself in the colorful markets of Nice (Cours Saleya).
  • Visit the glamorous city of Cannes, famous for its film festival and the Croisette.
  • Discover the Lerins Islands (Île Sainte-Marguerite & Île Saint-Honorat) near Cannes.
  • Wander through the beautiful municipality of Monaco, admire the stunning architecture and meticulously maintained gardens, and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Prince's Palace.
  • Visit the Oceanographic Museum in Monaco.
  • Experience the legendary glamour of St. Tropez, stroll along the harbor, and soak in its vibrant atmosphere. Relax on the famous beaches such as Pampelonne Beach.
  • Discover Antibes: visit the Picasso Museum and wander through its old town.
  • Explore the artistic village of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and the Maeght Foundation.
  • Relax on beautiful beaches in Villefranche-sur-Mer and Èze-sur-Mer.
  • Explore the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild in Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and its gardens.
  • Take a scenic drive along the Corniches for breathtaking coastal views.

Explore the Vibrant City of Marseille

  • Explore Marseille, France's second-largest city and a vibrant port with a rich multicultural history.
  • Wander through the Vieux Port (Old Port), the city's historic heart, and watch the fishermen and bustling activity.
  • Visit the iconic Notre-Dame de la Garde basilica, offering panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Discover the modern architecture of the MuCEM (Museum of European and Mediterranean Civilizations).
  • Explore the historic Le Panier district with its narrow streets and colorful buildings.
  • Savor the bouillabaisse, Marseille's famous fish stew.
  • Visit the Château d'If, a fortress on an island in the bay of Marseille, famous from "The Count of Monte Cristo."
  • Discover the street art and alternative culture in the Cours Julien district.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of the Noailles market, a melting pot of cultures and flavors.
  • Hike in the stunning Calanques National Park with its coastal inlets (near Marseille).

Discover the Lively City of Montpellier

  • Explore Montpellier, a vibrant university city with a youthful energy and modern flair.
  • Wander through the Place de la Comédie, the city's central hub.
  • Discover the medieval streets of the Écusson (old town).
  • Visit the Fabre Museum, showcasing a significant collection of European art.
  • Stroll through the Jardin des Plantes, one of France's oldest botanical gardens.
  • Experience the modern architecture of the Antigone district, designed by Ricardo Bofill.
  • Enjoy the city's lively café culture and diverse dining scene.
  • Explore the nearby beaches along the Mediterranean coast.

Explore Perpignan: Catalan Flavors in Southern France

  • Discover Perpignan, a city with a strong Catalan identity and a unique cultural blend.
  • Visit the Palais des Rois de Majorque, a historic palace with stunning views.
  • Wander through the charming old town with its Catalan architecture.
  • Explore Le Castillet, a historic gate and emblem of the city.
  • Experience the lively atmosphere of the Place de la Loge.
  • Indulge in the flavors of Catalan-inspired cuisine, such as cargols a la llauna (grilled snails with garlic and herbs), ollada (a hearty Catalan stew), and fresh seafood dishes.
  • Venture to nearby Mediterranean beaches like Canet-en-Roussillon or Saint-Cyprien for sunbathing and watersports.
  • Explore the foothills of the Pyrenees with charming villages like Castelnou (classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France) or take scenic hikes offering stunning views.

Discover the Charm and History of Toulouse and the Southwest

  • Visit Toulouse, the "Pink City," and explore the Place du Capitole and the Canal du Midi.
  • Savor the regional specialty of cassoulet.
  • Explore the Canal du Midi by bike or boat.
  • Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Toulouse's vibrant markets, such as the Marché Victor Hugo or the open-air Marché des Carmes.
  • Explore Albi and its impressive Sainte-Cécile cathedral and the Toulouse-Lautrec Museum.
  • Discover prehistoric cave paintings near Toulouse (Niaux, Pech Merle).
  • Explore the Cathar castles scattered throughout the region (e.g., Château de Montségur, Château de Peyrepertuse, Château de Quéribus), remnants of a fascinating medieval history.

Explore the Majesty and Villages of the Pyrenees Mountains

  • Explore the rugged landscapes of the French Pyrenees mountains, go hiking on well-marked trails, and enjoy breathtaking scenery in areas like the Cirque de Gavarnie.
  • Experience skiing in the Pyrenees' smaller, family-friendly resorts like Grand Tourmalet or Saint-Lary-Soulan.
  • Visit charming mountain villages such as Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port (a historic pilgrimage town), Cauterets (known for its thermal baths and waterfalls), and Villefranche-de-Conflent (a fortified town by Vauban).
  • Discover the pilgrimage town of Lourdes nestled in the Pyrenees.
  • Explore the Pyrenees National Park, rich in biodiversity and hiking opportunities.

Explore the Unique Island of Corsica

  • Discover Corsica, a Mediterranean island with stunning natural beauty, from rugged mountains to beautiful beaches.
  • Explore Ajaccio, the capital city and birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte.
  • Hike along the GR20, one of Europe's most challenging and scenic long-distance trails.
  • Relax on the idyllic beaches of Porto-Vecchio and Palombaggia.
  • Visit the dramatic Calanques de Piana, red granite cliffs plunging into the sea.
  • Explore the charming port town of Bastia.
  • Discover the ancient archaeological sites like Filitosa.
  • Experience the unique Corsican culture, language, and cuisine.

Natural Wonders of Southern France (Beyond Specific Regions)

  • Explore the Pont d'Arc and the Ardèche Gorges (canoeing).
  • Explore prehistoric cave paintings (Niaux, Pech Merle).
  • Hike through the Verdon Gorge, one of Europe's most stunning canyons.
  • Visit the underground river of Padirac Cave.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

France - 12 Weeks

Days 1-7: Parisian Charm

  • Arrive in Paris. Explore iconic landmarks: Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame.
  • Wander through Montmartre and the Latin Quarter.
  • Enjoy Parisian cafes, markets, and the Seine River.
  • Visit Versailles for a day trip.
  • Immerse yourself in the city's art and culture.
  • Consider a food tour or cooking class.

Days 8-13: Majestic Alps

  • Travel to the French Alps (consider a base like Chamonix or Annecy).
  • Enjoy stunning mountain scenery and fresh air.
  • Go hiking or take scenic cable car rides.
  • Explore charming alpine towns and villages.
  • Optional activities: paragliding, mountain biking, lake activities.
  • Savor Savoyard cuisine (fondue, raclette).

Days 14-17: Gastronomic Lyon

  • Travel to Lyon, France's gastronomic capital.
  • Explore the historic Vieux Lyon (Old Town).
  • Indulge in Lyonnaise cuisine at traditional "bouchons."
  • Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views.
  • Discover the city's Roman history and vibrant culture.

Days 18-23: Picturesque Provence

  • Travel to Provence (consider a base like Avignon or Aix-en-Provence).
  • Explore lavender fields (seasonal), olive groves, and vineyards.
  • Visit historic Roman sites like Pont du Gard and the arenas in Arles.
  • Discover charming hilltop villages (e.g., Gordes, Roussillon).
  • Experience the art and culture that inspired Van Gogh and Cézanne.

Days 24-34: Glamorous French Riviera & Marseille

  • Travel to Nice. Explore the Promenade des Anglais, Vieux Nice (Old Town), and Castle Hill for panoramic views. Visit the Matisse Museum.
  • Day trip to Monaco. See the Prince's Palace, the Oceanographic Museum, the Monte Carlo Casino, and walk the Formula 1 circuit.
  • Travel to Cannes. Walk the Croisette, see the Palais des Festivals, explore the Suquet (Old Town), and relax on the beaches. Consider a boat trip to the Lérins Islands.
  • Visit Antibes. Explore the Picasso Museum (housed in the Château Grimaldi) and the Fort Carré. Wander through the charming old town and along the Cap d'Antibes.
  • Travel to St. Tropez. Explore the Vieux Port, visit the Citadelle for views, relax on Pampelonne Beach, and experience the lively atmosphere.
  • Discover smaller gems like Èze, a perched medieval village with stunning coastal views and the Fragonard perfume factory.
  • Continue to Marseille. Explore the Vieux Port (Old Port) and the MuCEM museum.
  • Discover the Panier district (Marseille's oldest quarter).
  • Explore the Calanques National Park (take a boat trip or hike).
  • Experience the unique atmosphere and diverse culture of Marseille.

Days 35-39: Pyrenees & Catalan Influence

  • Travel towards the Pyrenees (consider a base near the mountains).
  • Enjoy the mountain scenery and hiking opportunities.
  • Explore towns with Catalan influences (Perpignan, Collioure).
  • Experience the unique blend of French and Spanish cultures.

Days 40-43: Toulouse & Canal du Midi

  • Travel to Toulouse, the "Pink City."
  • Explore the Place du Capitole and the historic center.
  • Stroll along the Canal du Midi.
  • Discover the city's aerospace industry and Roman history.

Days 44-48: Bordeaux Wine Region

  • Travel to Bordeaux, a renowned wine region.
  • Explore the elegant city center and Place de la Bourse.
  • Take wine tours to prestigious châteaux in nearby regions (e.g., Saint-Émilion, Médoc).
  • Enjoy wine tastings and learn about the winemaking process.

Days 49-55: Biarritz, Hossegor & Basque Coast

  • Arrive in Biarritz. Explore the Grande Plage, Rocher de la Vierge, and the lighthouse.
  • Surf in Biarritz: Grande Plage (all levels), Côte des Basques (mid to high tide). Explore the Musée de la Mer.
  • Travel to Hossegor, a renowned surfing destination. Surf famous breaks like La Gravière and La Nord (experts).
  • Explore other Hossegor surf spots: Les Culs Nuls (consistent), La Sud (beginners/longboarders). Enjoy the lake and pine forests.
  • Day trip to Saint-Jean-de-Luz: Explore the charming port, the Place Louis XIV, and the Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste.
  • Discover inland Basque villages like Espelette (famous for peppers) and Sare (one of France's most beautiful villages).
  • Travel north to Biscarrosse: Enjoy the long sandy beaches, known for surfing suitable for all levels. Explore the lake and surrounding nature.

Days 56-60: Up the Northern Coast

  • Travel north along the Atlantic coast.
  • Stop in charming coastal towns like La Rochelle, explore its harbor and towers.
  • Consider a stop in the city of Nantes and visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne.
  • Consider a visit to the Île de Ré, connected by a bridge.
  • Explore the diverse landscapes and maritime culture.

Days 61-67: Charming Normandy: History, Art & Cider

  • Travel to Rouen: Explore the magnificent Gothic cathedral, the charming half-timbered houses, and the Gros-Horloge. Consider the Joan of Arc Historial for a different historical perspective.
  • Visit Bayeux: See the famous Bayeux Tapestry and explore the lovely town, including its cathedral and the Baron Gérard Museum of Art and History.
  • Explore the Cider Route (Route du Cidre) in the Pays d'Auge: Visit picturesque villages like Beuvron-en-Auge, sample local cider, pommeau, and calvados, and enjoy the charming countryside.
  • Head to Honfleur: Explore the Vieux Bassin (old harbor), the Sainte-Catherine Church (with its wooden bell tower), and enjoy the artistic atmosphere.
  • Consider a visit to Giverny: Explore Monet's house and gardens, a haven of Impressionist inspiration.
  • Optional: If time allows, consider a brief exploration of the Suisse Normande for its natural beauty.

Days 68-74: Enchanting Brittany: Coast, Culture & History

  • Explore Saint-Malo: Wander the walled city, walk along the ramparts for stunning sea views, and experience the high tides.
  • Discover Dinan: Admire the well-preserved medieval architecture, stroll along the Rance River, and visit the Château de Dinan.
  • Visit Quimper: Explore the historic capital of Cornouaille, see the Gothic cathedral, and wander through the charming half-timbered streets. Consider the Musée Départemental Breton.
  • Explore the Carnac Stones: Marvel at the mysterious megalithic alignments and tumuli.
  • Experience the rugged coastline: Drive along scenic routes, visit lighthouses like the Phare du Petit Minou, and enjoy the dramatic cliffs.
  • Savor Breton cuisine: Indulge in galettes and crêpes, sample fresh seafood, and try local cider. Consider a visit to a traditional "crêperie."
  • Discover charming fishing ports: Visit towns like Concarneau with its walled "Ville Close" or Douarnenez, known for its maritime history.

Days 75-80: Northernmost France (Hauts-de-France): Art, History & Coast

  • Immerse yourself in Lille: Explore the Grand Place, admire the Flemish architecture, visit the Palais des Beaux-Arts (fine arts museum), and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Discover Amiens: Visit the stunning Gothic Amiens Cathedral (a UNESCO site), explore the charming Saint-Leu district with its canals, and wander through the Hortillonnages floating gardens.
  • Explore the Opal Coast (Côte d'Opale): Visit Boulogne-sur-Mer, home to Nausicaá (national sea center) and a historic old town.
  • Hike along the cliffs of Cap Blanc-Nez and Cap Gris-Nez: Enjoy panoramic views of the English Channel and the White Cliffs of Dover.
  • Discover the historic fortifications of Montreuil-sur-Mer, known for its connection to Victor Hugo's "Les Misérables."
  • Consider a visit to Arras: Explore its beautiful squares and the underground tunnels (Boves).

Days 81-84: Champagne Region: Bubbles & Heritage

  • Explore Reims: Visit the magnificent Reims Cathedral (where French kings were crowned), tour prestigious Champagne houses like Veuve Clicquot or Taittinger, and explore the Gallo-Roman remains.
  • Discover Épernay: Stroll along the Avenue de Champagne, lined with renowned Champagne estates like Moët & Chandon and Perrier-Jouët. Consider a cellar tour and tasting.
  • Explore the vineyards: Take a scenic drive through the rolling hills covered in vineyards and enjoy the picturesque landscapes.
  • Visit Troyes: Discover the medieval city center with its colorful half-timbered houses and the Musée d'Art Moderne.