Itinerary

A week in France sounds like a dream! Let’s create an itinerary that balances iconic sights, local experiences, and a bit of relaxation. I’ll suggest a mix of cities and countryside, along with accommodation and transportation options. Ready? Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Paris

Morning:

• Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Take the RER B train to central Paris (about 30-40 minutes).
• Check into your hotel. I recommend Hôtel Le 123 Sébastopol for its central location and charming decor.

Afternoon:

• Grab a light lunch at a nearby café (try a classic croque monsieur).
• Visit the Louvre Museum. Make sure to book your tickets in advance to skip the lines!

Evening:

• Stroll through the Tuileries Garden and head to the Seine River for a sunset cruise. It’s a magical way to see the city!
• Dinner at Le Relais de l’Entrecôte for their famous steak-frites.

## Day 2: Paris

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a local boulangerie (don’t miss the pain au chocolat!).
• Visit Notre-Dame Cathedral and explore the Île de la Cité.

Afternoon:

• Head to Montmartre. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and wander the charming streets.
• Lunch at Le Consulat, a quaint café in Montmartre.

Evening:

• Explore the Moulin Rouge area. Consider booking a show for a fun night out!
• Dinner at Chez Janou, a lovely Provençal restaurant.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Versailles

Morning:

• Take the RER C train to Versailles (about 1 hour).
• Visit the Palace of Versailles. Make sure to explore the gardens too!

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at La Petite Venise in the gardens.
• Spend the afternoon wandering the estate and the charming town of Versailles.

Evening:

• Return to Paris and have dinner at Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie for some delicious French cuisine.

## Day 4: Travel to Lyon

Morning:

• Take a morning TGV train from Paris to Lyon (about 2 hours).
• Check into Hôtel des Artistes, located in the heart of the city.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) and its Renaissance architecture.
• Lunch at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a food market with local specialties.

Evening:

• Enjoy a traditional Lyonnaise dinner at Bouchon Les Lyonnais. Don’t forget to try the quenelles!

## Day 5: Lyon to Avignon

Morning:

• Take a morning train to Avignon (about 1 hour).
• Check into Hotel de l'Horloge, right in the city center.

Afternoon:

• Visit the Palace of the Popes and stroll around the Pont Saint-Bénézet.
• Lunch at La Fourchette, a cozy spot with local dishes.

Evening:

• Explore the charming streets of Avignon and have dinner at Le Restaurant de la Tour for a lovely view.

## Day 6: Day Trip to Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Morning:

• Rent a bike or take a local bus to Châteauneuf-du-Pape (about 30 minutes).
• Visit a vineyard for a wine tasting tour. Domaine de Beaurenard is a great choice!

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at a local bistro in the village.
• Explore the ruins of the Château de Châteauneuf-du-Pape for stunning views.

Evening:

• Return to Avignon and have dinner at La Table d'Uzès, known for its fresh ingredients.

## Day 7: Return to Paris

Morning:

• Take a morning train back to Paris (about 2.5 hours).
• Check into a different hotel, like Hôtel La Comtesse, which has a view of the Eiffel Tower.

Afternoon:

• Spend your last afternoon shopping in the Marais district or visiting the Musée d'Orsay.
• Lunch at Café de Flore, a historic café.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, treat yourself at Le Meurice, a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• End your trip with a night walk to see the Eiffel Tower sparkle!

Transportation Tips:

• Trains: Book your TGV tickets in advance on the SNCF website for the best prices.
• Metro: Use the Paris Metro for easy city travel. Consider a Navigo pass for unlimited travel.
• Bikes: Many cities have bike rental services (like Vélib’ in Paris) for a fun way to explore.

Accommodation:

• Paris: Hôtel Le 123 Sébastopol or Hôtel La Comtesse
• Lyon: Hôtel des Artistes
• Avignon: Hotel de l'Horloge

And there you have it! A week filled with art, history, delicious food, and beautiful landscapes. Enjoy your trip to France! If you have any questions or need adjustments, just let me know! 🌍✈️🥖