8-Day French Metropolitan Adventure: Culture, Cuisine, and Charm

Day 1: Explore Paris

Paris, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café de Flore

Begin your day with the quintessential Parisian breakfast of croissants and café au lait at Café de Flore, a historic café in Saint-Germain-des-Prés.
Walk to the nearby Seine River for your next stop.
EUR15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Louvre Museum

Spend your morning exploring the world’s largest art museum, the Louvre, where you can see masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.
5-minute walk from Café de Flore.
EUR17, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Le Relais de l'Entrecôte

Enjoy a traditional steak-frites lunch at this famed Parisian bistro that is sure to satiate your appetite.
15-minute walk from the Louvre.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll through Montmartre

Wander through the charming streets of Montmartre, visiting the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur with stunning panoramic views of the city.
Take Metro Line 12 to Abbesses.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Enjoy a Seine River Cruise

Witness Paris’s iconic landmarks from the water with a relaxing Seine River cruise, perfect for taking photos and soaking in the ambiance.
Head to the Port de la Bourdonnais for boarding.
EUR20, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Marais

Dine at a vibrant bistro in the Marais district, sampling classic French dishes like Coq au Vin or Ratatouille.
Take a taxi or walk, about 20 minutes.
EUR30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Day Trip to Versailles

Versailles, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for an exciting day ahead.
Get ready and stroll to the train station.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Versailles

Catch the RER C train to Versailles, a journey that will take you through beautiful French countryside.
RER C Line from Gare Saint-Lazare.
EUR7.10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Palace of Versailles

Explore the opulent rooms of the Palace of Versailles and the expansive gardens beyond, where history and beauty intertwine.
Walk from the train station, 15 minutes.
EUR20, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Petite Venise

Indulge in French culinary delights at La Petite Venise located on the grounds of Versailles, featuring classic dishes.
Located within the gardens.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Gardens of Versailles

Wander through the meticulously manicured gardens of Versailles, stopping at fountains and charming spots for photos.
Continue walking to the gardens from the restaurant.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Paris

Head back to Paris via RER C to relax before dinner.
Follow the same route back to the train station.
EUR7.10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Bouillon Pigalle

Savor affordable yet delicious French cuisine in this popular bistro, a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
20-minute walk or Metro ride.
EUR20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historic Rouen

Rouen, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a relaxing breakfast in your hotel before embarking on your day trip.
Checkout and head to the train station.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Rouen

Take a SNCF train from Paris to Rouen, marveling at the rolling landscapes as you travel.
Gather at Gare Saint-Lazare.
EUR15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Rouen Cathedral

Begin your exploration of Rouen with a visit to the stunning Gothic masterpiece, Rouen Cathedral, which inspired Monet.
Walk from the train station, approximately 15 minutes.
EUR0, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at La Petite Auberge

Try some local delicacies like Duck Confit at La Petite Auberge, known for its welcoming atmosphere.
Short walk from the cathedral.
EUR25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Historic Center

Stroll through the picturesque streets of Rouen’s historic center, with half-timbered houses and vibrant shops.
Continue walking post-lunch.
EUR0, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Musee des Beaux-Arts

Admire French art collections at the Musee des Beaux-Arts, featuring works from the Renaissance to the modern day.
A short 10-minute walk from the historic center.
EUR5, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Travel back to Paris

Return via train after a day of exploration and culture.
Walk back to the train station.
EUR15, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Le Fumoir

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Le Fumoir, an elegant spot near the Louvre with French and international cuisine.
A short taxi ride from the train station.
EUR50, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Historical Bayeux

Bayeux, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before heading out to explore Bayeux, a town rich in medieval history.
Prepare to check out and head to the station.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Bayeux

Travel by train from Paris to Bayeux and enjoy the lush landscapes of Normandy along the way.
Depart from Gare Saint-Lazare.
EUR25, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum

Admire the famous Bayeux Tapestry, a remarkable piece of art and history depicting the Norman Conquest.
Walk from the train station, about 10 minutes.
EUR9, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Café gastronomie

Taste some local Normandy cuisine including apple tart at this cozy café just steps from the museum.
A 5-minute walk from the museum.
EUR20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the Cathedral of Bayeux

Visit the stunning Bayeux Cathedral with its beautiful Gothic architecture and rich history.
A short walk from lunch.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Memorial Museum of the Battle of Normandy

Conclude your day in Bayeux by learning about the significant events of D-Day and World War II.
Walk to the museum, about 15 minutes.
EUR8, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Return to Paris

Head back to Paris and relax after a rewarding day steeped in history.
Walk back to the station.
EUR25, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Le Train Bleu

Dine in grand style at Le Train Bleu located in Gare de Lyon, enjoying sumptuous dishes amidst stunning décor.
A short metro ride or taxi.
EUR70, 2 hours
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Day 5: Enchanting Mont Saint-Michel

Mont Saint-Michel, France

7:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before your exciting trip to Mont Saint-Michel.
Gather your things and head to the train station.
EUR10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Travel to Mont Saint-Michel

Take a train and bus combination to reach the breathtaking island commune of Mont Saint-Michel.
Take the train from Paris to Pontorson then a bus.
EUR40, 3.5 hours

11:30AM

Explore Mont Saint-Michel Abbey

Wander through the medieval streets leading up to the stunning Abbey and enjoy the magnificent views of the bay.
Walking distance from the bus stop.
EUR10, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at La Mère Poulard

Relish a meal at La Mère Poulard, famous for its omelette and traditional Norman recipes.
Located on-site within the island.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Stroll around Mont Saint-Michel

Lose yourself in the charm of the narrow streets, unique shops, and stunning landscapes that surround Mont Saint-Michel.
Explore the area around the abbey.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Return to Paris

Travel back to Paris, enjoying the beauty of Normandy once again.
Follow the same route of bus and train.
EUR40, 3.5 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Chez Janou

Experience Mediterranean-inspired dishes at Chez Janou, located in the heart of the Marais.
Taxi or public transport back to the city.
EUR45, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Cultural Nantes

Nantes, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Have a breakfast fit for an explorer before checking out for your next destination.
Leave your hotel and head to the train station.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Nantes

Ride the train from Paris to Nantes—for a taste of the vibrant culture and art of the region.
Train from Gare Montparnasse.
EUR30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Château des Ducs de Bretagne

Discover the history of Nantes at this historic castle, featuring exhibitions on the city’s past and maritime heritage.
Walking distance from the train station.
EUR8, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at La Cigale

Indulge in fresh seafood and local delicacies at La Cigale, a lovely restaurant known for its stunning Art Nouveau decor.
Just a short walk from the castle.
EUR35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore Les Machines de l'île

Visit the whimsical world of Les Machines de l'île, a unique artistic project that features giant mechanical animals.
A tram ride or a 20-minute walk from La Cigale.
EUR9, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit the Place Royale

Stroll through the lovely Place Royale, a picturesque public square where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.
Walk or take a tram to the square.
EUR0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Restaurant L’Atlantide 1874

Savor innovative French cuisine with splendid views of the Loire River at this Michelin-starred restaurant.
Catch a tram or taxi from the square.
EUR75, 2 hours
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Day 7: Lively Lyon

Lyon, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Delight in a breakfast of local pastries and specialty coffees to energize you for your day in Lyon.
Check out and head to the train station.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Lyon

Catch a train from Nantes to Lyon, traveling through some of the picturesque French countryside.
Train departing from Nantes station.
EUR30, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Marvel at the stunning architecture of this basilica, perched on a hill with breathtaking views of the city.
A funicular ride up the hill.
EUR2, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Les Halles de Lyon

Explore the culinary delights at Les Halles de Lyon, a gourmet market with local showcases of delectable eats.
Take the funicular back down and walk about 20 minutes.
EUR25, 2 hours

3:00PM

Walk in Parc de la Tête d'Or

Take a leisurely stroll through this beautiful park, enjoying its stunning lake and lush gardens.
Metro ride to the park.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Explore Vieux Lyon

Discover the Renaissance charm of Vieux Lyon, filled with narrow alleyways, shops, and historical buildings.
Walk from Parc de la Tête d'Or.
EUR0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Le Musee

Savor Lyon's famous cuisine at Le Musee, known for its traditional Bouchons experience.
Short walk from Vieux Lyon.
EUR40, 2 hours
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Day 8: Charming Marseille

Marseille, France

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy breakfast featuring fresh pastries and strong French coffee before heading to Marseille.
Check out and head to the train station.
EUR10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Travel to Marseille

Board a high-speed train from Lyon to Marseille, enjoying the beautiful Southern French landscape.
Train departing from Lyon Part-Dieu.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Vieux Port

Explore the heart of Marseille at the Old Port, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and maybe catch a boat ride.
A short walk from the train station.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Le Relais 50

Experience Mediterranean flavors at Le Relais 50, known for its seafood dishes and chic London-style decor.
Short walk from the port.
EUR30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Notre-Dame de la Garde

Visit this iconic basilica that offers sweeping views of the city and the sea, a must-see in Marseille.
Take a local bus or taxi up the hill.
EUR0, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wander the Panier district

Lose yourself in the charming streets of Le Panier, known for its lively atmosphere, street art, and independent shops.
Return to the Vieux Port and walk to Le Panier.
EUR0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Chez Fonfon

Enjoy an authentic bouillabaisse dinner at this popular seafood restaurant with a view of the port.
Walk back to the Vieux Port area.
EUR60, 2 hours
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