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Paris, Provence & French Riviera Itinerary: France’s Iconic Regions
8 Days
4 Stops
Private transfer
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertLa Mirande in Avignon earns its single night more than any longer stay would, and it's an accommodation call I always make without hesitation. The hotel occupies a 14th-century cardinal's palace directly against the Palais des Papes wall, and one evening in that inner courtyard before the tourist day ends gives the papal city a scale and intimacy that a standard hotel approach simply doesn't. The Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy excursion from Aix is the day that reveals a Provence the TGV-to-Nice circuit misses: the bauxite cliffs above the Vallée des Baux are genuinely vertiginous, and the Van Gogh connection in Saint-Paul-de-Mausole's cloister garden is one of the most affecting site-specific art experiences in France. For Nice as a finale, start the Cannes and Antibes day in Antibes rather than Cannes: the Picasso Museum in the Château Grimaldi runs light before the coastal lunch crowd reaches the old port.
La Mirande in Avignon earns its single night more than any longer stay would, and it's an accommodation call I always make without hesitation. The hotel occupies a 14th-century cardinal's palace directly against the Palais des Papes wall, and one evening in that inner courtyard before the tourist day ends gives the papal city a scale and intimacy that a standard hotel approach simply doesn't. The Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy excursion from Aix is the day that reveals a Provence the TGV-to-Nice circuit misses: the bauxite cliffs above the Vallée des Baux are genuinely vertiginous, and the Van Gogh connection in Saint-Paul-de-Mausole's cloister garden is one of the most affecting site-specific art experiences in France. For Nice as a finale, start the Cannes and Antibes day in Antibes rather than Cannes: the Picasso Museum in the Château Grimaldi runs light before the coastal lunch crowd reaches the old port.
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Paris
Day 1 - 2
With the River Seine gently meandering through this incredible city in northern central France, the captivating, romantic city of Paris has been described in just about every possible way and is a dream destination for people the world over, boasting many famous landmarks, a rich history and idyllic Parisian scenes at every turn. The city features monument-lined boulevards, fascinating museums, classical bistros, bohemian art nouveau cafes, creative wine bars, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. Must-see attractions include: the impressive Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, the world-renowned Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe standing guard over the glamourous Champs Elysees Avenue. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample infamous French cuisine at an array of enticing ‘boulangeries’, ‘patisseries’, and ‘fromageries’.
Your accommodation
Hôtel Le Littré
With a stay at Hôtel Le Littré, you'll be centrally located in Paris, within a 5-minute drive of Luxembourg Gardens and Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honore. This hotel is 1.3 mi (2.1 km) from Louvre Museum and 1.6 mi (2.5 km) from Rue Cler.
Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities including a sauna and bicycles to rent. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge).
Make yourself at home in one of the 90 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring minibars and plasma televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and bidets. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Seine River dinner cruise
Experience the epitome of French elegance with the Seine River Dinner Cruise at 20h30, featuring the exquisite Etoile Menu. This enchanting evening promises more than just a meal; it offers a cultural and sensory journey through the heart of Paris, set against the backdrop of the iconic Seine River.
Savor Exquisite French Gastronomy
Our renowned Chef presents a menu that celebrates the finest in traditional French cuisine. Each dish is a testament to culinary artistry, crafted daily on board with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The emphasis is on harnessing the pure, authentic flavors of each component, presented with understated elegance. Through a meticulous cooking technique and artful presentation, every plate served on our cruise becomes a masterpiece.
Two Worlds, One Unforgettable Experience
Choose between day and night ambiances aboard our fully glazed vessel, offering unparalleled views of Paris’s majestic cityscape. As you glide past renowned landmarks, enjoy the warm glow of the city lights or the vibrant colors of the sunset.
Throughout your journey, indulge in our impeccable service, where every detail is attended to with care and sophistication. To elevate your dining experience, live musical entertainment graces the ambiance, providing a melodious backdrop that enhances the charm of your cruise.
Join us for an unforgettable evening on the Seine River, where culinary excellence meets the magic of Paris in a uniquely memorable setting.
IMPORTANT: Boarding: Boarding: Pier 5 or Pier 7
Boarding ends: 8:00 pm
Boat departs: 8:30 pm
Return to dock: 11:00 pm
Avignon
Day 3
Positioned at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance Rivers in southeastern France’s Provence region, Avignon is a town of good looks and rich cultural treasures. As the French capital of Christendom in the fourteenth century, Avignon grew into a thriving city with a prestigious cultural heritage, still visible today in the fascinating architectural monuments lining the cobbled streets of the medieval old town. Many of the old town’s monuments have been transformed into quirky cafes, boutiques, and even a movie theatre; however, the 'Le Palais des Papes’ remains unchanged as a reminder of the luxurious decadence afforded by the papacy. Today Avignon’s vibrant student scene, designer boutiques, and trendy restaurants combine to form a seductive blend of medieval history, youthful energy, and urban sophistication.
Your accommodation
La Mirande Avignon
At the heart of Avignon, La Mirande mansion at the foot of the Popes' Palace, delivers all the richness of its ancient heritage. This timeless refuge offers a memorable experience in a setting of refined taste with the evocative atmospheres of the eighteenth century and the good life. A stay in La Mirande is an invitation to travel through the exquisite world of French decorative arts. Authenticity is the watchword.
Rooms are decorated in classic, country-style with original 18th-century features. All rooms have flat-screen TV's and free WiFi. The majority of the rooms have palace views and some feature terraces.
Your activity
Admission Palais des Papes & Gardens
Embark on a captivating journey through history. This comprehensive visit offers a deep dive into the historical, architectural, and cultural wonders of Avignon. From the majestic halls of the Palais des Papes to the legendary Avignon Bridge, this experience is designed to transport you back to the grandeur of medieval France.
Commence your exploration at Place du Palais des Papes, 84000 Avignon. The site is open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering flexibility to suit your schedule.
Tour Highlights:
- Histopad Experience at Palais des Papes: Upon entry, you'll receive a complimentary Histopad, a digital tablet available in seven languages. This innovative tool enhances your journey through the Palais des Papes with augmented reality, allowing you to visualize its rooms as they appeared in the 14th century. Dive into the history and witness the past come alive through engaging, interactive content.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Discover the construction techniques and architectural mastery that make the Palais des Papes a Gothic marvel. Learn about its splendid decorations and the influential papal court that once resided here. With over 20 significant locations to explore, including the papal private apartments adorned with frescoes by Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulence and spiritual power of the era.
- Palais des Papes Gardens: Stroll through the peaceful and beautifully designed gardens surrounding the palace. These gardens offer a serene escape and a perfect opportunity to reflect on the historical richness you’ve experienced.
- Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon): Continue your journey to the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet, commonly known as the Pont d'Avignon. This engineering marvel, built in the 12th century, once spanned the Rhône River, connecting its two banks. Though only four of the original 22 arches remain, the bridge stands as a legendary monument emblematic of the region and rich in folklore and history.
Join us for a memorable exploration of Avignon's most iconic landmarks and uncover the stories and secrets of its past. Ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and curious travelers alike, this visit promises an unforgettable glimpse into the grandeur and cultural richness of medieval France.
Aix-en-Provence
Day 4 - 5
With all the style, culture and sophistication of Paris but with none of the crowds and tourist traps, Aix-en-Provence is the perfect holiday destination for travellers seeking a relaxed and authentic French experience. This stately town is idyllically situated in a picturesque landscape surrounded by quaint, sleepy villages at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain. One can’t help but be seduced by the splendour of the baroque architecture, the avenues of leafy plane trees, and the quietly gurgling moss-covered fountains which adorn meticulously manicured gardens. The city’s maze of tiny medieval streets forms an ideal setting for groups of immaculately dressed locals posing in the numerous chic cafes and stylish boutiques. With all its decadent elegance, it is easy to see why Aix-en-Provence has become synonymous with l'art de vivre (the art of living).
Your accommodation
Hotel Cezanne
Hotel Cezanne is the first Boutique Hotel in Aix en Provence. It is located in the city centre and proudly displays its chic and trendy side. The hotel is four stars rated and has 55 rooms. It has all the qualities of an international luxury hotel while remaining a human size enterprise.
There is a terrace equipped with a bar outside. A fitness room and a massage room welcome athletes and sports enthusiasts. The hotel is renowned for its breakfast served till noon and there is also private parking with video surveillance available.
Nespresso machines are available on each floor. Each room is equipped with a mini bar filled with complimentary drinks such as flat and sparkling water, fruit juices and sodas. Two self-service bars are available in the lounge and on the terrace.
Free Wi-Fi is available across the whole hotel. A business centre is equipped with Mac and PC computers with French and American keyboards. There is also a printer available and a press service gives access to 1,000 international newspapers, from 84 countries and in 40 languages.
There is free access to the fitness room. It is equipped with last generation machines: Elliptical bike, stepper and treadmill. Hotel Cezanne provides twelve different kinds of massages by fully qualified professionals.
The concierge service directs the guests towards Aix's good addresses and its surroundings according to their needs. The hotel offers a laundry service available Monday to Saturday. A baby kit can be installed in your room on request.
Your activity
Wine and Cheese tasting
Embark on a captivating journey of flavors nestled in the vibrant heart of Aix-en-Provence at La Cave du Cours Mirabeau. This delightful experience invites you to explore the exquisite pairing of French wines and cheeses. Perfect for both novices and seasoned aficionados, this tasting offers a deep dive into the art of pairing three thoughtfully curated wines—a red, a white, and a rosé—with complementary, delectable French cheeses.
Guided by an expert local connoisseur, you'll gain insight into the intricate flavors and textures that define Provence's renowned culinary traditions. The relaxed, intimate setting ensures a personal and engaging experience, allowing you to fully savor each pairing and learn the nuances of this celebrated art.
The setting for this memorable tasting is the charming basement cellar of La Cave du Cours Mirabeau, situated within the storied walls of the Hotel d'Arbaud-Jouques. Built in 1792, this historic building has played host to illustrious visitors including Charles IV of Spain and the Duc d'Angoulême, along with other crowned dignitaries. As you make your way to our tasting cellar, take a moment to admire the building's remarkably adorned front door—one of the most elaborate in Aix-en-Provence. Once inside, you'll find yourself in the former kitchens of this grand hôtel particulier, where history and hospitality come together to create an ambiance that enriches your tasting experience.
Come, join us for an unforgettable exploration of tastes, history, and culture in one of southern France's most scenic locales.
Pickup: La Cave du Cours Mirabeau, 19 Cour Mirabeau, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Nice
Day 6 - 8
Art lovers can marvel at the impressive collections housed in the city’s numerous world-class museums including the Matisse Museum, Musée Chagall, the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, and the Musée et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez, which includes the ruins of the Gallo-Roman settleNice is a fairly large French city situated on the French Riviera with spectacular Alps-to-Mediterranean surroundings. It is well known for its breathtaking views along the Promenade des Anglais, its famous waterfront, lined with deck chairs, perfect for spending a lazy afternoon in the sun alongside the azure water of the Bay of Angels. ment in Cimiez. Architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to peak their interest in the ocher-tinted streets of the city’s charming Old Town. These narrow, traffic-free alleyways are lined with romantic cafes, picturesque houses and boutiques, as well as the famous flower and fruit market of the Cours Saleya. With its perfect balance of modern sophistication and old-world charm, nice is a popular destination for vacationers both young and old, with something to offer nearly everyone.
Your accommodation
La Perouse Hotel
Hotel La Perouse is located at the foot of the Castle Hill in the heart of Nice. Your room has air conditioning, cable and satellite TV, a minibar, a desk and free Wi-Fi. You can enjoy the fresh flavours of the South of France in the hotel's restaurant "Le Patio". Here you can enjoy delicious Provençal dishes in a charming atmosphere. Refreshment and relaxation are provided by the outdoor pool, sauna and whirlpool. Fitness enthusiasts will enjoy the fitness centre.
Your activity
Nice, Monaco, Monte-Carlo and Eze
Begin your day with a guided walking tour in the captivating old town of Nice, led by a guide with deep expertise and passion for the region. Immerse yourself in Nice's cultural and historical treasures as you explore the vibrant stalls of the Flower Market and delight in tasting olive oil and other regional specialties. Take in the best viewpoints of Nice Bay, where the vistas are truly breathtaking.
Following a relaxing 30-minute lunch break in Nice, board our air-conditioned minibus and journey to the picturesque village of Èze. Here, you'll step back in time within the medieval streets and enjoy a guided tour of the exquisite Fragonard Perfumery, where the art of fragrance fills the air.
Your adventure continues in the charming old town of Monaco, where you’ll visit the magnificent Cathedral and the stately Prince’s Palace square. Experience the thrill of a ride around the iconic Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, and be captivated by the world-famous Place du Casino in Monte Carlo. This inspiring journey will not only enrich your knowledge but also enchant your senses, offering you the very best of the French Riviera.
From$4,850
per personAccommodations
Transportation
24/7 support
Activities
Meals
Tourlane App
Travel plan
Flights
Flexible cancellation policies
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Why plan with an expert?
200+
Plan with professionals who are explorers themselves.
31+ hours of time saved
Our experts plan and book for you.
14+ Bookings managed
Everything is bundled in one place and perfectly planned.
7+ Transfers coordinated
For optimal transport and comfort.
Excellent
Itinerary inspiration
Paris for two nights, then south into Provence through Avignon and Aix-en-Provence before the coast at Nice closes the journey — eight days that follow the Rhône Valley south and arrive at the Mediterranean with the accumulated cultural weight of the interior behind them. La Mirande in Avignon, a former cardinal's palace steps from the Palais des Papes, is the most atmospheric address of the whole trip and earns a night on its own terms.
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The Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Saint-Rémy excursion from Aix is the day that gives Provence its full range. Arles for the Roman amphitheater and the Van Gogh connections, Les Baux for the dramatic citadel above the Alpilles valley, and Saint-Rémy for the asylum where Van Gogh painted his most celebrated works — together they cover the cultural and visual identity of the region more completely than any single-site visit could.
Day 1–2: Paris
Hotel: Hotel Observatoire Luxembourg
Two nights in the Latin Quarter with the Seine dinner cruise, the Louvre highlights, and the Eiffel Tower VIP entry. The Hotel Observatoire Luxembourg's position close to the Luxembourg Gardens gives the mornings a natural opening before the organized visits begin.
Day 3: Avignon
Hotel: La Mirande Avignon
One night at La Mirande, steps from the Palais des Papes. The palace visit earns a full afternoon: the scale of the building and the layered medieval history reward genuine time rather than a rushed circuit. The Pont d'Avignon and the old city walls at dusk are the right close.
Day 4–5: Aix-en-Provence
Hotel: Hôtel Negrecoste Aix en Provence
Two nights with the wine and cheese tasting, the Arles, Les Baux, and Saint-Rémy excursion, and the Aix old town and markets. The Cours Mirabeau in the early morning, with the plane trees in leaf and the café tables being set out, is the most genuinely Provençal moment of the stay.
Day 6–8: Nice
Hotel: Hotel Nice Riviera
Two nights with the French Riviera scenic tour, the old town and waterfront exploration, and the day trips to Cannes, Antibes, and Villefranche-sur-Mer. Villefranche's sheltered bay and the medieval Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat peninsula give the Riviera coast its most dramatically photogenic section and reward a slower pace than the main resort towns provide.
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