Scenic 10-Day Train Journey Through Southwest and Central France Starting in Bordeaux

Day 1: Explore Bordeaux

Bordeaux, France on April 20, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at La Belle Epoque

Start your day with a traditional French breakfast featuring fresh croissants and café au lait in La Belle Epoque, known for its charming atmosphere and excellent pastries.
EUR12, 1h

9:45am

Visit La Cité du Vin

Explore Bordeaux’s iconic wine museum offering interactive exhibits and tastings that immerse you in the world of wine culture and history.
EUR20, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Le Petit Commerce

Enjoy fresh seafood in a lively bistro specializing in local dishes like oysters and grilled fish, located in central Bordeaux.
EUR30, 1h30m

2:00pm

Walk along the Garonne River and visit Place de la Bourse

Take a leisurely stroll along the riverfront and admire the stunning 18th-century architecture of Place de la Bourse with its famous water mirror.
Free, 1h

4:00pm

Visit Saint-André Cathedral

Explore this magnificent Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its intricately carved façade and impressive steeple.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Le Chapon Fin

Dine in one of Bordeaux’s oldest gourmet restaurants offering refined French cuisine in an elegant, historic setting.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 2: Toulouse Sights

Toulouse, France on April 21, 2025

7:00am

Train from Bordeaux to Toulouse

Catch a morning high-speed train to Toulouse, a journey of about 2 hours and 15 minutes providing scenic views of southwestern France.
EUR30, 2h15m

9:30am

Breakfast at Les Jardins de l’Opéra

Enjoy a fresh and light breakfast in this popular spot near Toulouse’s opera house, famed for its pastries and fresh juices.
EUR15, 1h

10:30am

Visit Capitole de Toulouse

Explore the grand city hall and theatre building featuring remarkable 18th-century architecture and the beautiful Place du Capitole.
Free, 1h

11:45am

Walk along the Canal du Midi

Take a peaceful walk along this UNESCO-listed canal lined with plane trees and charming locks, ideal for photos and relaxation.
Free, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Café des Artistes

This cozy bistro offers traditional southwestern French dishes like cassoulet in a warm and friendly atmosphere.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Basilica of Saint-Sernin

Discover one of Europe’s largest Romanesque churches, noted for its remarkable architecture and UNESCO status.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Relax at Jardin Japonais

Unwind in this peaceful Japanese garden featuring a pond, waterfall, and traditional landscaping, perfect for late afternoon tranquility.
Free, 45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Bibent

Experience elegant French dining at this well-known restaurant on Place du Capitole, offering gourmet dishes and excellent wine choices.
EUR45, 2h
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Day 3: Historic Carcassonne

Carcassonne, France on April 22, 2025

8:00am

Train from Toulouse to Carcassonne

Board a morning regional train for a 1h15m ride to Carcassonne, famous for its medieval citadel.
EUR15, 1h15m

9:30am

Breakfast at La Table Carol

Enjoy a light breakfast with coffee and pastries close to the medieval castle entrance.
EUR10, 1h

10:30am

Tour Cité de Carcassonne

Explore the UNESCO-listed fortified city featuring double ramparts, medieval towers, and the Château Comtal, a fascinating glimpse into medieval life.
EUR10, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Le Comte Roger

Savour traditional Languedoc cuisine in this charming restaurant within the medieval walls, known for hearty stews and local wines.
EUR30, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk along the River Aude

Take a relaxing riverside walk just outside the city walls, offering lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Free, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus

Admire the beautiful stained glass and Gothic architecture in this historic cathedral inside the citadel.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Auberge du Vieux Puits

Treat yourself to a Michelin-starred dining experience with creative dishes reflecting regional flavours in a cosy setting.
EUR80, 2h
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Day 4: Montpellier Charm

Montpellier, France on April 23, 2025

8:30am

Train from Carcassonne to Montpellier

Take a morning train journey of about 1h15m to the vibrant city of Montpellier, known for its medieval streets and lively squares.
EUR20, 1h15m

9:45am

Breakfast at Le Petit Jardin

Enjoy a healthy and fresh breakfast in this garden café located in the historic centre.
EUR15, 1h

11:00am

Visit Place de la Comédie

Stroll around Montpellier’s lively main square, admire surrounding architecture, and soak up the vibrant local atmosphere.
Free, 45m

12:00pm

Discover Fabre Museum

Explore one of the finest art museums in France featuring classical and contemporary collections in a beautiful 19th-century building.
EUR10, 2h

2:30pm

Lunch at Le Pastis

Relish Mediterranean cuisine with fresh seasonal ingredients at this popular restaurant near the museum.
EUR30, 1h30m

4:15pm

Walk to Promenade du Peyrou

Enjoy panoramic views of Montpellier and its surroundings from this 17th-century promenade featuring beautiful statues and a water tower.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Leclere Cuisine d’Arrivage

Sample local produce crafted into modern French dishes in this intimate and award-winning restaurant.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 5: Avignon History

Avignon, France on April 24, 2025

8:00am

Train from Montpellier to Avignon

Board a morning train for a 1h15m journey to Avignon, famed for its papal palace and medieval bridges.
EUR20, 1h15m

9:30am

Breakfast at La Fourmi Ailée

Relax at this charming café offering excellent coffee and homemade pastries in the heart of Avignon.
EUR12, 1h

10:30am

Tour Palais des Papes

Explore the vast Gothic palace that was the seat of the popes in the 14th century, featuring grand chapels and stunning frescoes.
EUR15, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at L'Épicerie

Enjoy fresh Provençal dishes in this trendy bistro with ingredients sourced from local markets.
EUR25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk to Pont Saint-Bénézet

Visit the famous medieval bridge known from the song 'Sur le Pont d’Avignon,' with scenic views over the Rhône River.
EUR5, 1h

5:00pm

Visit Rocher des Doms

Stroll through this peaceful park and gardens on the hilltop offering panoramic views over Avignon and the surrounding countryside.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Table d'Uzès

Savour a refined meal featuring seasonal specialties in an elegant setting, perfect for ending your day in Avignon.
EUR45, 2h
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Day 6: Lyon Culinary Delights

Lyon, France on April 25, 2025

7:30am

Train from Avignon to Lyon

Take a morning TGV train on a roughly 2h journey to Lyon, known as France's gastronomic capital.
EUR40, 2h

10:00am

Breakfast at Café Mokxa

Start your day with superb coffee and freshly baked goods at this specialty café in downtown Lyon.
EUR12, 1h

11:15am

Explore Vieux Lyon

Wander through the Renaissance streets and traboules (hidden passageways) of the Old Town, marveling at colorful buildings and quaint shops.
Free, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at Café des Fédérations

Experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine such as quenelles and andouillette in this traditional bouchon with lively atmosphere.
EUR35, 1h30m

3:15pm

Visit Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière

Take a short funicular ride up Fourvière Hill to this iconic basilica with stunning interiors and spectacular city views.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Stroll along the Rhône River banks

Enjoy a relaxing walk along the riverbanks lined with cafés and parks, a perfect way to wind down the afternoon.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Paul Bocuse Restaurant

Indulge in gourmet meals at the legendary Michelin-starred restaurant, an essential culinary experience in Lyon.
EUR120, 2h
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Day 7: Dijon Heritage

Dijon, France on April 26, 2025

8:00am

Train from Lyon to Dijon

Board a morning train for the 1h45m journey to Dijon, renowned for its mustard and medieval architecture.
EUR30, 1h45m

9:45am

Breakfast at Café Gourmand

Enjoy a traditional French breakfast including éclairs and pain au chocolat at this welcoming café in Dijon’s city centre.
EUR12, 1h

10:45am

Visit Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy

Discover the historical residence with a museum showcasing fine arts and the history of Burgundy.
EUR8, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Restaurant Stéphane Derbord

Feast on traditional Burgundian cuisine with a contemporary twist, paired with local wines.
EUR40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk through Parcours de la Chouette

Follow this famous self-guided walking route featuring markers shaped like owls, guiding visitors past Dijon’s highlights.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Visit Dijon Cathedral

Explore this Roman Catholic cathedral with impressive stained glass and gothic details dating back to the 13th century.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at La Maison des Cariatides

Enjoy refined French dining with a focus on regional products in a beautiful historical building.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 8: Strasbourg Culture

Strasbourg, France on April 27, 2025

7:00am

Train from Dijon to Strasbourg

Begin early for the approximately 3h30m trip to Strasbourg, a city blending French and German influences.
EUR45, 3h30m

11:00am

Breakfast at Café Brant

Enjoy French breakfast specialties in this cosy café near the historic centre.
EUR15, 1h

12:15pm

Visit Strasbourg Cathedral

Marvel at this 15th-century gothic masterpiece famed for its astronomical clock and ornate façade.
Free, 1h

1:30pm

Lunch at Maison Kammerzell

Dine in a historic half-timbered building serving hearty Alsace dishes like tarte flambée and choucroute garnie.
EUR35, 1h30m

3:15pm

Boat tour of Strasbourg canals

Take a scenic 1h boat trip around the Grande Île UNESCO site to see charming neighbourhoods and historic landmarks.
EUR15, 1h

5:00pm

Explore La Petite France

Wander through this picturesque district with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and lively cafés.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Dinner at Le Clou

Enjoy traditional Alsatian cuisine in a rustic atmosphere, a perfect end to your Strasbourg visit.
EUR40, 2h
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Day 9: Reims Champagne

Reims, France on April 28, 2025

8:00am

Train from Strasbourg to Reims

Depart Strasbourg for approximately 3h40m journey to Reims, the unofficial capital of the Champagne region.
EUR50, 3h40m

11:45am

Breakfast at Le Café du Palais

Relax with coffee and croissants near the famous Reims Cathedral.
EUR12, 1h

12:45pm

Visit Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral

Explore the masterpiece of Gothic architecture where French kings were traditionally crowned.
Free, 1h

2:00pm

Lunch at Brasserie du Boulingrin

Enjoy classic French brasserie fare in an art deco setting, specializing in regional dishes.
EUR30, 1h30m

4:00pm

Tour a Champagne house (Veuve Clicquot recommended)

Book a guided tour and tasting session at a famous Champagne producer to learn about the bubbly production process.
EUR25, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at La Table Anna

A refined setting with a menu highlighting seasonal ingredients and regional wines.
EUR50, 2h
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Day 10: Paris Finale

Paris, France on April 29, 2025

7:30am

Train from Reims to Paris

Catch a morning high-speed train to Paris, just 45 minutes from Reims, to conclude your journey in the French capital.
EUR25, 45m

8:30am

Breakfast at Angelina

Start with the iconic hot chocolate and pastries at this legendary Parisian salon de thé near the Tuileries.
EUR20, 1h

9:45am

Visit the Louvre Museum

Spend the morning exploring one of the world's largest and finest art museums, home to the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces.
EUR17, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Le Fumoir

Dine in style close to the Louvre with French cuisine that offers a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere.
EUR40, 1h30m

3:00pm

Walk along the Seine and visit Notre-Dame Cathedral

Enjoy a riverside stroll to see iconic sights including the Notre-Dame Cathedral exterior, perfectly capturing Parisian charm.
Free, 1h30m

5:00pm

Climb the Eiffel Tower

End your trip with spectacular views from the Eiffel Tower, open until late evening, offering a magical Parisian sunset experience.
EUR28, 2h

8:00pm

Dinner at Le Jules Verne

Enjoy gourmet French cuisine on the Eiffel Tower’s second floor for an unforgettable finale to your train adventure.
EUR150, 2h
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