3-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for France in December 2023

  1. Day 1: Paris
    30 minutes (13.2 km) from Charles de Gaulle Airport

    Start your day at the Louvre Museum, the world's largest art museum. Admire the famous Mona Lisa and other art masterpieces. Then, head to the Eiffel Tower and enjoy the stunning view of Paris. Take a stroll to the Champs-Élysées and enjoy some window shopping. End your day at the Sacre Coeur Basilica and enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of Paris.

  2. Day 2: Marseille
    3 hours (775 km) from Paris

    Head to the southern coast of France and visit the beautiful city of Marseille. Start your day at the Old Port of Marseille, which has been a trading center since ancient times. Then, visit the Notre-Dame de la Garde, a stunning basilica overlooking the city. Take a stroll through the colorful streets of Le Panier, the oldest district of Marseille. End your day at the Calanques National Park, a beautiful natural reserve with breathtaking views of cliffs and turquoise waters.

  3. Day 3: Lyon
    2 hours (308 km) from Marseille

    Finish your trip by visiting the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon. Start your day at the Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a stunning basilica with a panoramic view of Lyon. Then, take a stroll through the charming streets of Vieux Lyon, the old town with colorful Renaissance buildings. Visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts, one of the largest fine arts museums in France. End your day at the Parc de la Tête d'Or, a beautiful park with a lake, a zoo, and a botanical garden.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Louvre Museum (2-3 hours, €15)
  • Eiffel Tower (2-3 hours, €16)
  • Sacre Coeur Basilica (1-2 hours, free)
  • Notre-Dame de la Garde (1-2 hours, free)
  • Le Panier (2-3 hours, free)
  • Calanques National Park (4-5 hours, free)
  • Notre-Dame de Fourvière (1-2 hours, free)
  • Vieux Lyon (2-3 hours, free)
  • Musée des Beaux-Arts (2-3 hours, €8)
  • Parc de la Tête d'Or (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: €39
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