France 7 Day Itinerary

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring the Charms of France

This itinerary focuses on Paris and its surrounding areas, offering a mix of classic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences. It’s just a suggestion - feel free to customize it based on your interests!

Day 1:

  • Morning: Arrive in Paris (Charles de Gaulle Airport - CDG or Orly Airport - ORY).
    • Things to do: Explore the charming Latin Quarter, wander through the Jardin du Luxembourg, visit the Sorbonne University and enjoy its historic architecture.
    • Things to know: The best way to travel from the airport to your hotel is by train (RER B for CDG, Orlyval then bus/taxi for ORY) - it’s efficient and affordable.

Day 2:

  • Day trip: Visit the Palace of Versailles, marvel at the opulent Hall of Mirrors, and stroll through the gardens of this magnificent royal estate.
    • How to get there: Take the RER C train to Versailles-Château Rive Gauche station. From there, it’s a short walk to the palace.

Day 3:

  • Explore the Louvre Museum: Admire masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. Be prepared for crowds!
    • Tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues.

Day 4:

  • Climb the Eiffel Tower: Enjoy breathtaking views of Paris from the top. Consider booking a tour to skip the line and enjoy a guided experience.
    • Things to know:

Day 5:

  • Wander through Montmartre: Explore the charming streets, visit the Sacré-Coeur Basilica and Sacré-Coeur Basilica museum, and soak up the artistic atmosphere.
  • Visit the Musée d’Orsay: Admire Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir.
    • Tip: Look for the “Musée d’Orsay” bus stop for easy access to the museum.

Day 6:

  • Explore the Marais: Discover this historic district with its blend of architecture, museums, and trendy boutiques.
  • Enjoy a picnic near the Seine River: Grab some delicious French bread, cheese, and wine from a local bakery or market (a “picnic” is a must-do!) and find a charming spot to enjoy the view and soak up the Parisian atmosphere.

Day 7:

  • Day trip to the Loire Valley: Explore stunning castles like Chambord and Chenonceau before heading back to Paris for your flight home.
  • Things to know: The Marais is a popular destination for tourists, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

Things to note:

  • Things to do:

    • Take a bike tour: Cycle through the charming streets of Paris, visiting iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre (remember to factor in travel time from your chosen base).
    • Explore the local markets: Immerse yourself in Parisian life by picking up fresh ingredients for a picnic or browsing unique souvenirs.

Getting around:

  • Transportation:

Walking is the best way to experience Paris. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the Latin Quarter, a vibrant area with a rich history and plenty to see.

  • Things to do:
    • Wander through the historic streets and admire the architecture.
    • Visit the Musée d’Orsay on your own or as part of a tour.

Things to consider:

  • Visa: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter France. Check with the French embassy in your country for specific requirements.

  • Accommodation: Consider booking an Airbnb in the heart of Paris.

  • Food:

    • Enjoy a delicious pastry from a local boulangerie: A croissant and pain au chocolat are a must-try!

  • Transportation:

Other:

  • Currency: The Euro (€) is the currency used in France.

  • Language: French is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Visa Requirements for Tourists:

  • Citizens from the European Union (EU), Schengen area countries, and other countries with visa-free agreements with the EU can visit France without a visa for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • For non-EU citizens, check if you need a visa based on your country of origin and the purpose of your visit.

Things to consider:

Accommodation:

France has “a variety of accommodation options” available for tourists.

Food: Enjoy the local cuisine while in France!

  • Transportation:

Things to know:

  • Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond your intended stay.
  • Travel Insurance: It’s highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, cancellations, and other unforeseen circumstances.

Things to do during your time in France:

Enjoy a picnic near the Seine River:

Let me know if you want me to elaborate on specific activities for any of these days! I can offer more suggestions for museums, historical sites, restaurants, parks, or even local markets/events you could visit.