8-Day Honeymoon Itinerary: Southern France & Northern Italy Countryside on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Explore Avignon

Avignon, France

9:00AM

Visit Palais des Papes

Start your day by exploring the grand Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic buildings in the world.
Walk from your accommodation; it's centrally located.
EUR12, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax at Parc des Roquemaure

Stroll through the beautiful Parc des Roquemaure, enjoying the lush greenery and fountains.
A short 15-minute walk from Palais des Papes.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Petit Gourmand

Savor a delicious and affordable local lunch of Ratatouille and a glass of local wine.
7-minute walk from the park.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Walk the Pont Saint-Bénézet

Visit this historic bridge, known for the song ‘Sur le pont d'Avignon’, and take some memorable photos.
15-minute walk from lunch.
EUR5, 1 hour

4:00PM

Evening at the Rhône River

Enjoy a peaceful evening by the Rhône River, perfect for a romantic sunset and stroll.
5-minute walk from the bridge.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Les Halles d'Avignon

Dine at a local market where you can choose from various cuisines, offering fresh and inexpensive options.
15-minute walk back towards the center.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Charming Gordes

Gordes, France

9:00AM

Morning Bus to Gordes

Take a scenic bus ride to the hilltop village of Gordes, enjoying picturesque landscapes.
Bus station is 10 minutes from Avignon's center.
EUR3, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Village

Wander the narrow streets of Gordes, soaking up its charm and stunning views.
Everything is within walking distance.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at La Trattoria

Enjoy a pizza made with fresh local ingredients in a quaint setting.
Located near the village center.
EUR15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Chartreuse de Bonpas

Explore this historic monastery and the surrounding lavender fields, a great spot for photos.
10-minute bus ride from Gordes.
EUR8, 2 hours

4:30PM

Wine Tasting Experience

Engage in an affordable wine tasting experience at a local vineyard.
20-minute walk from the monastery.
EUR10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at L'Estagnot

Finish your day with a charming dinner featuring homemade Provençal dishes.
Back in Gordes village.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Colorful Roussillon

Roussillon, France

9:00AM

Bus to Roussillon

Travel to the colorful village of Roussillon, famous for its ochre cliffs and vibrant buildings.
Bus stop is a short walk from your accommodation.
EUR2, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Ochre Trail

Start your day with a peaceful walk along the Ochre Trail, immersing yourself in the natural beauty.
Well-marked paths through the village.
EUR5, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Local Art Gallery

Stop by a local art gallery to appreciate the creation inspired by the vibrant colors of the village.
Easily reachable from the trail.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Le Piquet

Enjoy a simple yet exquisite lunch featuring local cheeses and bread.
In the village center.
EUR12, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at Place de l'Oppidum

Sit down at the main square, enjoying the atmosphere of the village and watching the world go by.
Central location in Roussillon.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Conservatoire des Ocres

Learn about the history and use of ochre in Roussillon and its impact on the region.
Short walk from the main square.
EUR7, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Le Côté Terra

Dine on a budget with an exquisite menu featuring seasonal vegetables.
10-minute walk back to the village center.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Adventures in Aix-en-Provence

Aix-en-Provence, France

9:00AM

Bus to Aix-en-Provence

Hop on a bus to the vibrant city of Aix-en-Provence, known for its lively markets and art scene.
Head to the bus station nearby for connection.
EUR3, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Cours Mirabeau

Stroll along Cours Mirabeau, lined with cafes and boutiques, where you can soak in the local atmosphere.
The boulevard is a central fixture of Aix.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Le Pain de Sucre

Treat yourself to a delicious sandwich made with fresh regional products.
Close by in the main square.
EUR12, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Aix-en-Provence Cathedral

Visit the stunning Cathedral of Saint-Sauveur to admire its beautiful architecture.
Short walking distance from lunch.
EUR0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Relax at Parc Jourdan

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon relaxing in Parc Jourdan, perfect for picnics and quiet moments.
A pleasant stroll from the cathedral.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Local Markets

Stroll through the local markets where you can browse fresh produce and souvenirs.
A central area with many market stands.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Le Petit Pesto

Dine on simple pesto pasta and a glass of local wine, perfect for ending your day.
In the heart of the city.
EUR18, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Coastal Charms of Nice

Nice, France

9:00AM

Train to Nice

Travel by train to Nice; this city along the French Riviera is waiting to impress you.
Train station is easily accessed from Aix.
EUR15, 2 hours

11:30AM

Promenade des Anglais

Start your day with a stroll along the beachfront Promenade des Anglais, soaking up the scenic views.
The promenade is steps away from the train station.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Pêche du Jour

Indulge in fresh seafood paired with local flavors while overlooking the sea.
On the beachfront, you’ll love the ambiance.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Castle Hill

Hike up to Castle Hill for panoramic views of Nice and the Mediterranean, a perfect photo opportunity.
A 15-minute walk from lunch.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Relax on the Beach

Spend your afternoon relaxing on the pebbly beach – don’t forget your towels!
Directly accessible from Castle Hill.
EUR0, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Chez Palmyre

Enjoy local Niçoise cuisine in a cozy, romantic atmosphere finishing off your day.
A short walk from the beach.
EUR25, 2 hours
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Day 6: Scenic Menton

Menton, France

9:00AM

Train to Menton

Take a quick train ride to Menton, famed for its beautiful gardens and citrus fruits.
Train directly from Nice to Menton.
EUR5, 30 minutes

10:00AM

Explore the Old Town

Wander through the charming old town of Menton, rich in colorful architecture and quaint streets.
Main sights are clustered together.
EUR0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Le Syrah

Taste Mediterranean-inspired dishes with an amazing sea view.
Close to the main town square.
EUR18, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Jardin Serre de la Madone

Relax in one of Menton’s stunning gardens filled with exotic plants and tranquility.
A stroll from the lunch spot.
EUR6, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll Along the Beach

Enjoy a peaceful afternoon walking along the Menton beach and dipping your toes in the Mediterranean!
Direct access from the gardens.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at La Table de la Mer

Conclude your day with seafood delicacies prepared with a local touch.
On the promenade.
EUR22, 2 hours
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Day 7: Vibrant San Remo

San Remo, Italy

9:00AM

Train to San Remo

Take a scenic train ride across the border into Italy to San Remo, known for its Mediterranean flair.
Direct train from Menton.
EUR7, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the San Remo Casino

Visit the famous casino and embrace the vibrant ambiance that the city offers.
In the central part of San Remo.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at La Piazzetta

Delight your taste buds with traditional Italian pasta dishes paired with local wines.
Located near the casino.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Giardini Regina Elena

Wander through these lovely gardens for relaxing moments and perfect photo opportunities.
A short walk from lunch.
EUR0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Enjoy the sun at the sandy San Remo beach, ideal for unwinding after a day of exploring.
Accessible from the gardens.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Ristorante Pizzeria La Casetta

Savor authentic Italian pizza amidst a friendly atmosphere.
Located a short walk from the beach.
EUR15, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Charming Bordighera

Bordighera, Italy

9:00AM

Train to Bordighera

Travel by train to the coastal town of Bordighera, lesser-known but incredibly charming.
Direct train from San Remo.
EUR5, 30 minutes

9:30AM

Explore Villa Garnier

Visit the beautiful Villa Garnier, surrounded by stunning gardens and old architecture.
Short walk from the station.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Relax at the Beach

Unwind on Bordighera's pristine beach, perfect for taking in the Italian sun.
Short walk from the villa.
EUR0, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Foce

Enjoy fresh fish or pasta topped with fresh herbs and a sea view.
Along the waterfront.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Explore the exquisite botanical gardens, showcasing a mix of native and exotic plants.
A 10-minute walk from lunch.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Osteria del Mare

Close your honeymoon with an intimate dinner, featuring delicious homemade Italian dishes.
Just a short walk back along the waterfront.
EUR25, 2 hours
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