Morning: Arrive in Lyon, settle into your accommodation, and enjoy a leisurely walk through the Vieux Lyon district, admiring Renaissance architecture.
Afternoon: Visit the famous Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for panoramic views of the city, then explore the hidden gem of the Traboules passageways.
Evening: Dine at a traditional Bouchon Lyonnais to get a taste of local cuisine and enjoy a quiet evening stroll along the Rhône River.
Find HotelsMorning: Explore the Lyon Fine Arts Museum, one of France’s largest art collections beyond Paris.
Afternoon: Discover the lesser-known Parc de la Tête d'Or including its botanical gardens and zoo for a refreshing break surrounded by nature.
Evening: Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Place des Terreaux with its fountains and local cafés.
Find HotelsMorning: Take a short trip to the medieval village of Pérouges, a charming hidden gem, to wander through cobbled streets and historic walls.
Afternoon: Eat local specialties at a village inn and explore artisan shops selling handmade crafts.
Evening: Return to Lyon and relax at your hotel or take a gentle walk along Quais de Saône.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel from Lyon to Aix-en-Provence by train, enjoying scenic southern French landscapes.
Afternoon: Explore the famous Cours Mirabeau, lined with plane trees and cafés, and discover hidden alleys with artisan shops.
Evening: Take a relaxed evening, visiting a local wine bar in the city center.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the renowned Atelier Cézanne, the studio of painter Paul Cézanne, a well-kept cultural treasure.
Afternoon: Explore Montagne Sainte-Victoire, a stunning natural landmark and inspiration for many artists; enjoy a gentle hike or picnic.
Evening: Stroll through Aix’s markets and try local Provençal cuisine at a tucked-away bistro.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the quiet village of Le Tholonet and the peaceful Jas de Bouffan estate, Cézanne’s family home.
Afternoon: Explore Saint-Sauveur Cathedral and its mix of architectural styles, then relax in a nearby café.
Evening: Attend a concert or cultural event if available, or enjoy an evening at the lively Place des Cardeurs.
Find HotelsMorning: Take an early train from Aix-en-Provence to Strasbourg, crossing into the Alsace region with its unique blend of French and German culture.
Afternoon: Begin exploring La Petite France, Strasbourg’s picturesque historic district, with its timber-framed houses and canals.
Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of the traditional Alsatian winstubs—cozy local restaurants serving regional specialties.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral and climb the tower for stunning views of the city.
Afternoon: Discover the Musée Alsacien, a lesser-known museum showcasing everyday Alsatian folk art and traditions.
Evening: Take a peaceful evening boat ride on the Ill River to see the city lit up from a different perspective.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel to the fairy-tale town of Colmar, famous for its colorful half-timbered houses and canals.
Afternoon: Visit the Unterlinden Museum and explore hidden courtyards and quaint shops off the beaten path.
Evening: Return to Strasbourg, choosing a quiet dinner spot away from tourist crowds.
Find HotelsMorning: Wander through the large Orangerie Park, a serene spot popular with locals.
Afternoon: Visit the European Parliament (exterior viewing) and the nearby neighborhoods known for charming street art and markets.
Evening: Sample Alsatian wine with locals at a wine bar in the Neustadt district.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel back to Lyon from Strasbourg, resting and soaking in the changing landscapes.
Afternoon: Free time to explore any missed spots in Lyon or shop for souvenirs in the Presqu'île area.
Evening: Relax with a river cruise on the Saône or enjoy a final Lyonnais dinner.
Find HotelsMorning: Visit Musée Gadagne, combining Lyon’s history and puppet museum, a fascinating hidden gem.
Afternoon: Take a cooking class focused on Lyon’s gastronomy or explore local food markets like Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse.
Evening: Enjoy a leisurely evening walk through the illuminated city streets and dinner at a bistro favored by locals.
Find HotelsMorning: Travel to Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps,” wandering canals and visiting the Château d’Annecy.
Afternoon: Explore the quieter parts of town such as the Jardins de l'Europe and lakeside paths.
Evening: Return to Lyon and have a farewell dinner featuring specialties from the Rhône-Alpes region.
Find HotelsMorning: Pack and enjoy a final café breakfast in Lyon’s historic district.
Afternoon: Head to the airport or train station for your journey home.
Evening: Travel and rest.
Find HotelsTotal Estimated Cost: Approximately €407 (excluding accommodation and some meals)
To extend your trip, consider adding more day trips around each base city—such as exploring the Beaujolais wine region from Lyon or the lavender fields near Aix-en-Provence in summer. For a shorter trip, focus on just two cities and allocate more time to fully enjoy each location’s highlights without feeling rushed.