7 day itinerary for France

Itinerary

Let’s craft a delightful 7-day itinerary for your adventure in France, focusing on some of the most charming cities outside of Paris. You’ll be hopping on trains, so we’ll keep your travel efficient and enjoyable. Here’s a plan that balances sightseeing, culture, and a bit of relaxation.

## Day 1: Arrival in Lyon

Morning: Arrive in Lyon. Check into a hotel near Lyon Part-Dieu station for easy access. I recommend the Hotel Ibis Lyon Part-Dieu.

Afternoon: Explore the Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon). Stroll through the cobblestone streets, visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for stunning views, and check out the traboules (hidden passageways).

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a traditional bouchon restaurant. Try local specialties like quenelles or coq au vin.

## Day 2: Lyon to Avignon

Morning: Take a train to Avignon (about 1 hour). Check into a hotel near the train station, like the Hotel Ibis Styles Avignon.

Afternoon: Visit the Palace of the Popes and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet. Don’t forget to take a leisurely walk around the charming streets of Avignon.

Evening: Dine at a local bistro and try the ratatouille or tapenade. Enjoy a glass of local wine!

## Day 3: Avignon to Aix-en-Provence

Morning: Catch a train to Aix-en-Provence (about 1 hour). Stay at a hotel like Hotel Aquabella, which is close to the center.

Afternoon: Explore the beautiful Cours Mirabeau, visit the Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, and check out the Atelier Cézanne to see where the famous painter worked.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a terrace restaurant. Try the bouillabaisse or pissaladière while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 4: Aix-en-Provence to Nice

Morning: Take a train to Nice (about 2.5 hours). Check into a hotel near the train station, such as the Hotel Nice Excelsior.

Afternoon: Spend your day at the Promenade des Anglais and relax on the beach. Visit the Old Town (Vieux Nice) for some shopping and local snacks.

Evening: Have dinner at a seaside restaurant. Don’t miss trying the socca (chickpea pancake) and a refreshing salade niçoise.

## Day 5: Nice to Monaco

Morning: Take a short train ride to Monaco (about 20 minutes). You can stay in Nice and just do a day trip, or if you prefer, stay at the Hotel de Paris in Monaco for a night of luxury.

Afternoon: Visit the Prince’s Palace, the Monaco Cathedral, and the Oceanographic Museum. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the harbor. Try the local seafood dishes!

## Day 6: Nice to Strasbourg

Morning: Head back to Nice and take a train to Strasbourg (about 8 hours, so an early start is essential). Check into a hotel near the station, like the Hotel Ibis Strasbourg Centre.

Afternoon: Explore the Grande Île, visit the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, and take a boat tour on the Ill River.

Evening: Dine at a traditional Alsatian restaurant. Don’t miss the choucroute garnie (sauerkraut with sausages) and a glass of Alsatian wine.

## Day 7: Strasbourg to Frankfurt

Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and perhaps visit the European Parliament if time allows.

Afternoon: Take a train to Frankfurt (about 2 hours). Depending on your flight time, you can explore the Römer and the Palmengarten.

Evening: Head to the airport for your flight to Ibiza!

Tips for Your Journey:

• Train Tickets: Consider getting a Eurail Pass for flexibility, or book tickets in advance for the best prices.
• Luggage: Travel light to make commuting easier.
• Local Cuisine: Always ask locals for their favorite spots; you might discover hidden gems!

I hope this itinerary helps you make the most of your week in France! Enjoy every moment, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures! 🌍✨