France in one week
Paris, Versailles, Giverny, Rouen, Etretat, Honfleur, Caen, Bayeux, Normandy, Brittany, Paris
France is a destination that effortlessly blends history, art, and natural beauty, and this seven-day itinerary highlights some of its most enchanting regions. Begin in Paris, where iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre meet charming neighborhoods and world-class cuisine. Venture to Giverny to step into Monet’s world, exploring the gardens that inspired his famous masterpieces. Discover the historic charm of Rouen, with its half-timbered houses and the stunning cathedral immortalized by Monet. Stroll the picturesque harbor of Honfleur, a haven for artists, and marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Étretat. Experience the moving history of Normandy, from the serene beaches of the D-Day landings to the stories they tell, and visit Bayeux to admire the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a remarkable 11th-century masterpiece. Finally, be transported to another era at Mont Saint-Michel, where a medieval abbey rises dramatically above the tides. This journey offers an unforgettable mix of cultural, historical, and natural treasures.
Day One
Paris, the City of Light, enchants with its iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant culture. Stroll along the Seine, explore world-class museums, and savor its timeless charm.
8:30 Quick breakfast at a Boulangerie
9:00 Eiffel Tower
11:00 Picnic in Champs de Mars with market food from Rue Cler.
1:30 Visit the Louvre
3:30 Walk through Tuileries Garden to Angelinia’s for hot chocolate and pasteries
4:30 Stroll along Champs Elysees, stopping at Laduree for macrons
6:00 Climb the Arc de Triomphe for the best views of Paris
7:00 Pick up an eclair from Patisserie des Reves
8:30 Dinner Cruise on the Seine
Day two
Paris, home to over 2.1 million people, attracts nearly 30 million visitors annually. Famous for its 324-meter Eiffel Tower and 35,000 works of art in the Louvre, it offers a mix of iconic landmarks and cultural treasures. With 20 distinct districts, or arrondissements, Paris is a city rich in history, architecture, and culinary excellence.
8:30 Quick breakfast at a Boulangerie
9:00 Eiffel Tower
11:00 Picnic in Champs de Mars with market food from Rue Cler.
1:30 Visit the Louvre
3:30 Walk through Tuileries Garden to Angelinia’s for hot chocolate and pasteries
4:30 Stroll along Champs Elysees, stopping at Laduree for macrons
6:00 Climb the Arc de Triomphe for the best views of Paris
7:00 Pick up an eclair from Patisserie des Reves
8:30 Dinner Cruise on the Seine
Day three
Some of the best things about traveling to Paris is what is not in Paris! Palace of Versailles, a symbol of royal opulence with its stunning Hall of Mirrors and vast gardens is a quick 40 minutes away. In Giverny you cany explore Monet’s enchanting home and gardens, the inspiration for his iconic Water Lilies. There is no better place to end the day than in Rouen, a city steeped in history, with its Gothic cathedral, charming half-timbered houses, and ties to Joan of Arc.
9:00 Chateau de Versailles
10:30 Ride bikes around the garden of Versailles, or rent a golf cart
12:00 Lunch at Le Place, a craperie near the palace
2:00 Monet’s Garden and Home in Giverny
4:30 Roeun Cathedral
5:00 Historial Jeanne d’Arc
6:30 Wander the Mideval Center of Roeun. Don’t miss the half-timber houses and Gros-Horloge Clock
7:30 Dinner at Tandem
Day four
Spend a day immersed in the charm and history of Normandy, beginning in Étretat with its dramatic white cliffs and natural arches overlooking the sea, that Monet painted, en plein air. Head to Honfleur, a picturesque harbor town known for its colorful buildings and artistic heritage. Continue to Caen to explore its rich World War II history and impressive medieval landmarks like the Abbaye aux Hommes.
9:00 Climb to the top of the cliffs of Etretat and explore the beach and town
11:30 Wander the beautiful harbor of Honfleur, peek in the Church of Sainte-Catherine and enjoy lunch at Chez Justine et Quentin
1:00 Visit La Mora, immersing yourself in the history of William the Conqueror and the Normans
3:00 Peek in the Abbaye-aux-Hommes, the beautiful Caen Cathedral and resting place for William the Conqueror
4:45 Visit Memorial de Caen for a deep dive into the WWII history of Normandy
7:00 Dinner in Caen
Day five
Begin your day in Bayeux, home to the extraordinary 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry, which vividly tells the story of the Norman Conquest. Then reflect on the compelling World War II events that took place along the coastline of Normandy. Normandy's WWII sites offer a profound journey through history, commemorating the bravery and sacrifices of those who fought during the D-Day landings and the Battle of Normandy. From the haunting beaches of Omaha and Utah to the moving memorials and museums in Sainte-Mère-Église and Arromanches, walk in the footsteps of history, with a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the cost of freedom.
9:00 Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum
10:30 Tour the Juno Beach Center
12:00 Enjoy lunch in Arromanches-les-Bains
1:00 Stroll along the coast of Arromanches to see remnants of the artificial harbors and visit the Arromanches to watch a compelling film of the battles of Normandy.
2:30 Explore Longues-sur-Mer Battery
4:00 Visit the American Cemetery and Omaha Beach
6:00 Wander Pont du Hoc
7:00 Dinner in Bayeux at La Rapiere or L’Alcove
Day six
Begin your journey in Sainte-Mère-Église, a historic village known for its role in the D-Day landings and the iconic paratrooper story. Then, drive to Villedieu-les-Poêles, a charming artisan town famous for its copper workshops and the renowned bell foundry. Continue to the medieval town of Dinan, where cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the scenic Rance River transport you back in time. Conclude your day at the breathtaking Mont-Saint-Michel, exploring its winding streets and magnificent abbey perched atop the island, with sunset views over the bay.
9:00 Finish your exploration of WWII Normandy at Sainte-Mere-Eglise,
12:00 Enjoy lunch in Villedieu-les-Poêles and explore this quaint village known for its copper craftsmanship and artisan workshops.
3:00 Visit Dinan, the beautifully preserved medieval town with cobbled streets, a castle, and a scenic walk along the Rance River. Enjoy an early dinner.
7:00 Arrive at Mont Saint Michel in time to explore the island as the sun sets.
Day seven
Drive back to Paris by way of Chartres Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, is a must-visit destination just outside Paris. Renowned for its stunning stained glass windows, intricate sculptures, and towering spires, it offers a journey through centuries of history and craftsmanship. Spend time marveling at its iconic Blue Virgin window, exploring the crypt, and strolling the surrounding medieval streets for a truly enriching experience.
9:00 Visit the Mont Saint Michel Abbey and explore the island and bay
1:00 Enjoy lunch in Le Mans’ old town, leaving time to wander the streets
4:30 Visit Chartres Cathedral
8:00 Enjoy dinner in Paris
