Day 1: Meet up in Paris
All day
About the team:
This itinerary is for reference only, and the price shown is an indication of intent. All itineraries can be customized based on your needs. The price may vary depending on the date, flight, hotel level, and itinerary. After placing an order, a tailor will adjust the route and re-quote based on your travel time and actual needs.
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How to get to your destination:
This itinerary meets at Paris, so you'll need to book your own flight to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (Airport Code: CDG).
Visa Information:
This itinerary requires you to apply for a French Schengen visa. It is recommended that you apply for a visa 2-3 months in advance. The visa must cover your travel dates. You cannot apply for Schengen visas for other countries. After placing your order and paying, you can contact the staff to provide an English-language proof of participation in the tour group. This will be used for your visa application.
Day 2 Paris
·morning
After breakfast, begin your day's leisurely Paris tour, beginning at the Louvre, the world's most renowned art museum. Step through the glass pyramid and enter this sanctuary that epitomizes the essence of human civilization. Under the subtle smile of Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa, the kinetic energy of the outstretched wings of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, or the graceful curves beneath the broken arm of the Venus de Milo, time seems frozen in time, a dialogue between history and aesthetics.
Leaving the museum, stroll through the palace's main entrance into the Tuileries Gardens. This royal green space, originally created by Catherine de' Medici, has become a tranquil haven for Parisians. Tree-lined avenues crisscross the landscape, dotted with sculptures and fountains, and iron chairs scattered along the lawns and pools. Sit back and watch the swans swim across the lake, hear the laughter of children chasing each other, and feel the midday sun glisten across the treetops—this is the most authentic breath of Paris.
Continuing west along the parkway, your steps naturally lead to the Place de la Concorde. In its center stands an ancient Egyptian obelisk brought from Luxor, flanked by two delicate Fontana fountains. Looking around, the dome of the Madeleine Church, the canopied trees of the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe loom in the distance due west. You are now at the most magnificent focal point on the Paris axis, the threads of history unfolding from your feet, the grandeur of France unfurling in full view.
·afternoon
Strolling slowly along the Champs-Élysées, this tree-lined boulevard, hailed as "the world's most beautiful avenue," stretches from the Place de la Concorde to the Arc de Triomphe. It's both a mecca for luxury shopping and a showcase for the beauty of urban life. Chanel, Dior, and Hermès stand side by side here, while a strong espresso and a freshly baked croissant in a streetside café offer a unique sense of refinement.
If you're physically fit, consider ascending to the top of the Arc de Triomphe. Climbing isn't about checking in, but rather about standing at the heart of the Place de l'Étoile and gazing down at the Parisian fabric formed by the 12 radiating avenues. Especially when the setting sun paints the rooftops a warm gold, the city becomes like a slowly illuminating oil painting, its layers distinct and its emotions intense.
In the evening, we recommend visiting the Eiffel Tower. You can ascend for a panoramic view of the city's order and romance, or wait for darkness from the Champ de Mars or the terrace of the Palais de Chaillot. Every hour on the hour, the tower lights up, whispering goodnight to Paris and quietly ushering in the evening.
·night
As night falls, take a tranquil Seine River cruise, letting the city's silhouettes unfold: the Louvre's pyramid, the clock face of the Musee d'Orsay, the under-renovation silhouette of Notre Dame Cathedral... These daytime landmarks are now bathed in the soft glow of lights and the river. Gazing upon Paris from a boat offers a new perspective of elegance and profound affection.
Day 3 Paris → Tours → Le Mans
·morning
After breakfast, we'll depart from bustling Paris and head to the Loire Valley, known as France's "Garden." Famous for its magnificent castles, tranquil countryside, and rich history, the Loire Valley was once a popular holiday destination for French royalty.
·afternoon
Entering Tours, we are about to take a city walk in this small town that carries the history of the Loire Valley and French romance. Starting from the Cathedral of Saint-Gatien, we will look up at the Gothic twin towers and exquisite stained glass, and feel the sacredness and tranquility of history.
Then walk to the Castle of Tours. This ancient fortress stands quietly, telling the story of the city's changes and dynasties.
Afterwards, we'll follow a path to the banks of the Loire River, where a gentle breeze caresses the water, the stone bridges reflected in the water, a testament to the gentle passage of time. After a brief rest, we'll continue to Brandy Square, the heart of the old town, where half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and open-air cafes interweave to create an authentic French atmosphere.
Wander through the narrow alleys of the Old Town, where historical bookstores and craft shops hide quietly, each window and stone slab whispering a story. Along the way, visit the Cathedral of St. Martin, a solemn and sacred church dedicated to France's patron saint, its tower a silent witness to the city's transformation.
·night
After dinner, proceed to Le Mans for overnight stay.
Upon arrival, if you're not too tired, consider a nighttime tour of Le Mans' Old Town. Known as one of France's most beautiful medieval districts, this area is dotted with ancient cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and the magnificent St. Julian Cathedral. Under the night sky, the old town is illuminated, creating a sense of time travel.
Day 4 Le Mans → Mont Saint Michel → Rennes
·morning
After breakfast, we set off, driving into the rural heart of northwestern France. Outside the window, we saw Normandy pastures, low stone walls, and scattered villages. Occasionally, cows strolled through the morning mist, and wheat fields stretched to the horizon. Without the hustle and bustle of the city, there was only the gentle rustle of wind, grass, and time passing by the car window.
Ahead, a gray-blue hill rises quietly from the horizon. After reaching the parking area, it's time to walk—a ceremonial approach to Mont Saint-Michel. With each step, the medieval wonder perched amidst the tides becomes clearer, its layers rising toward the sky like a stairway to the gods.
Passing through the imposing ancient city gate, you step onto the cobblestone path. On either side are medieval-style inns and handicraft shops, with old wooden-beamed houses winding along the hillside. You feel as if you've traveled back to the 13th century, hearing the clatter of knights' boots on the stone steps or the murmur of monks' silent prayers amidst the tolling of morning bells.
Climb the steps, one by one, to the Abbey of Saint-Michel. This Gothic sanctuary, built atop a hill, is a masterpiece of the perfect fusion of faith, architecture, and nature. Standing in the cloister, gaze up at the dome supported by flying buttresses. Sunlight filters through ancient window lattices, casting dappled shadows on the stone walls. The air carries the salty aroma of sea breeze and time, evoking the tranquility of the monks who once meditated here.
·afternoon
After lunch, you will have free time to explore Mont Saint-Michel
After dinner, proceed to Rennes for overnight stay.
Day 5 Rennes → Nantes → Bordeaux
·morning
After breakfast, we'll explore the city of Rennes. Stroll past the Palais des Congrès, where the classical facade speaks of Brittany's former glory. Walking along the cobblestone streets, the golden dome of the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre shimmers in the morning light, a solemn and mysterious presence.
Walking through the old town of Rennes, what comes into view are the colorful half-timbered houses. They carry the charm of the 16th century and make people feel as if they have returned to the commercial scene of the Middle Ages.
Stroll to the Place de Ville, where the magnificent Rennes City Hall and the Breton Opera stand opposite each other, showing the French elegance of this city.
·afternoon
After lunch, we will head to Bordeaux, stopping briefly in Nantes. Nantes, once the capital of the Duchy of Brittany, has now become one of the most creative cities in the Loire Valley.
Castle of the Dukes of Nantes – This magnificent castle has witnessed the history of Nantes, from the glory of the Duchy of Brittany to the later French rule. The promenade on the city walls also offers a panoramic view of the city.
After a short stop, we continued south to Bordeaux, the wine capital.
After arriving in Bordeaux, you can stroll along the Place du Roi as night falls and feel the soft light and shadow of the city at night.
Day 6 Bordeaux → Toulouse
·morning
After breakfast, we'll begin our day at Water Mirror Square. The shallow water reflects the neoclassical architecture, and as the mist rises, it feels like strolling through a reflection of the city.
We'll then visit St. Andrew's Cathedral, where its towering spires and exquisite stone carvings speak of medieval faith and strength. We'll ascend the Peberan Tower, a side tower offering panoramic views of the city, red-tiled rooftops, and winding rivers.
Continue to visit the Bordeaux Grand Theatre, where the facade is solemn and elegant, and the columns and reliefs on the porch still retain the architectural order and decorative beauty of the 18th century.
At the end of your trip, stroll into the Saint-Pierre district. Its cobblestone streets are lined with taverns and artisan shops, perfect for a casual sit-down, order a glass of local wine, and feel the rhythm of Bordeaux flow from your feet to your glass.
·afternoon
After lunch, we will head to Toulouse, a cultural center in southwestern France. The city is paved with pink brick and stone buildings and is affectionately known as the "City of Roses".
Upon arrival, stop briefly at Congress Square. The central relief sculptures of the twelve zodiac signs and the surrounding classical facades create a rhythmic urban scene, with crowds flowing through it, bustling yet orderly.
We then entered the Jacobin Monastery, a 13th-century structure whose reddish-brown brick columns and palm-shaped vaults create a unique visual tension. The tranquility within the monastery contrasts sharply with the bustling city outside, inviting us to slow down our pace.
Continue to the Basilica of Saint-Sernin. Its imposing exterior exemplifies the Romanesque style of Southern France. Inside, the stained glass windows cast a vibrant light, while the stone walls whisper memories of pilgrimages from millennia ago.
In the evening, stroll along the Garonne River. The river reflects the setting sun, the sky gradually darkens, and the pink brick buildings cast soft shadows on the water. At this moment, the city retreats from the bustle of the day, leaving only wind and light, floating gently.
Day 7 Toulouse → Nimes → Avignon
·morning
After breakfast, depart from Toulouse and head to Nîmes, located in southern France. This city has been important since Roman times, and its historical relics still stand today, making it a living fossil of ancient Roman culture.
·afternoon
Upon arrival, step into the Arena of Nîmes. Built in the 1st century BC, this amphitheater still stands in the heart of the city, structurally intact and beautifully proportioned. The echoes of gladiatorial contests and cheers of yesteryear have long since faded, replaced by the tranquility and solemnity of sunlight bathing the stone steps.
We'll then visit the Temple of Maisoncare, which retains its ancient Roman Corinthian colonnades and pediment, and is considered a prime example of classical architecture. From its perch at the highest point in the city, the temple offers panoramic views of Nîmes' old town.
Follow the shady paths to the Roman Gardens of Nîmes. Within the gardens, still waters and shadowy trees shroud ancient ruins and springs. Ascend the steps and gaze back at the city from above, layers of history intertwine with the rhythm of contemporary life.
Depart in the evening for Avignon and spend the night within the city walls.
Day 8 Avignon → Lake Sainte-Croix → Valensole → Avignon
·morning
After breakfast, we departed Avignon. The vibrant summer scenery of Provence unfolded outside the train window. Sunlight shone softly across lavender fields and olive groves, creating a gentle hue. The wind rustled the waves of wheat. We passed beneath the Verdon Gorges before arriving at Lac Sainte-Croix. Its turquoise waters resembled a jewel set amidst the mountains, a tranquil and profound experience.
Take a short rest by the lake, the wind blows from the water, carrying the fragrance of pine and limestone, there is soft gravel under your feet, and the rhythm of birdsong and water sounds comes to your ears.
Then, start some water time:
Pedal/Rowboat: Choose a simple boat and glide slowly across the lake. The gentle rocking of the boat reflects the canyon's rocky cliffs and greenery, while sunlight shimmers through the waves, creating a world of light and shadow.
Kayaking: If you want to get closer to the water, try kayaking. As you follow the waterway deeper into the canyon, you'll gaze up at the towering cliffs, the landscape sometimes widening and sometimes narrowing. The sheer scale of nature is awe-inspiring.
Lakeside Picnic and Stroll: Choose a shady spot and spread out your picnic blanket on the grass. Enjoy a simple yet hearty meal of baguettes, cheese, and seasonal fruit. Silently enjoy the lake and distant mountains, no words needed. If you have more time, stroll along the lakeside path, where birds fly by and the shadows of trees dapple the landscape – every step is a breathtaking sight.
·afternoon
We set off in the afternoon for Valensole, a small town in the heart of Provence. As the altitude gradually climbed, the fields along the way gradually turned purple, and the fragrance of lavender slowly seeped in through the cracks in the car window.
Upon arrival, stroll through the Valensole lavender fields. Ridges undulate between the hills, stretching all the way to the horizon. Sunlight bathes the blossoms, and the colors sway gently in the wind. A delicate fragrance mingles with the warmth of the soil and the sun.
Step into a local lavender farm and discover the intimate relationship between the land and the plants. From cultivation to harvesting, distillation, and essential oil extraction, each process is meticulously crafted with the rhythm of time and the warmth of handcraft.
In the evening, I returned to the fields. The sun was setting, its golden rays casting a cascade across the sea of flowers. The blend of purple and orange resembled an oil painting. The camera spoke no words; simply pressing the shutter button was enough to capture a tranquil and beautiful memory of the day.
After dinner, we returned to Avignon. The night was gentle along the way, and the wind blew through the fields, and there seemed to be a hint of lavender fragrance.
Day 9 Avignon → Marseille → Nice
·morning
After breakfast, we will depart for Marseille, a city born from the Mediterranean Sea. For thousands of years, it has witnessed the fusion of sailors' dreams and exotic cultures.
Upon arrival, first stroll to the Old Port. Sailboats and fishing boats dot the landscape, anchored by the harbor, embodying the memories of generations. This is not only the city's starting point, but also its beating heart. The sea laps against the rocky shore, the aroma of coffee mingles with the sea breeze, and daily life and history intersect here.
Then, we headed to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Guardian. Ascending the slope, the golden statue of Our Lady gazed out across Marseille and the Mediterranean. The Neo-Byzantine dome, mosaics, and marble colonnades shone with a warm and majestic presence. From the observation deck, panoramic views of the city, port, and sea were unobstructed.
If time permits, consider exploring the Le Pin district. Its winding cobblestone alleys, graffiti-covered walls, and artisan shops juxtapose the faint sounds of guitars and coffee machines. This neighborhood has a certain sense of freedom, where artists and artisans make their lives, reflecting a lighter side of Marseille.
·afternoon
After lunch, we drove south along the Côte d'Azur highway, with rolling hills on one side and the shimmering, silvery-blue Mediterranean Sea on the other. The road meandered, the breeze was light and salty, and the coastal scenery of southern France slowly unfolded outside the car window.
Upon arrival in Nice, stroll along the Promenade des Anglais. This coastal boulevard serves as the city's border, naturally connecting the sea with everyday life. Shaded by palm trees, strollers, joggers, painters, and street music each quietly exist in the sunshine.
Walking through Nice's Old Town, the pace suddenly slows. Narrow alleys, painted walls, and lemon-colored shutters weave together the vibrant rhythm of a Mediterranean town. The market is bustling, and the air is filled with the scent of spices, dried flowers, and olive oil. Hand-painted pottery and bags of dried lavender piled high in front of small shops convey a warmth that requires no words.
Finally, we ascended Castle Hill, climbing the steps in sync with the wind. From the summit, the view was expansive, the entire city of Nice spread out before us: the winding coastline, the colorful rooftops, the deep blue sea, all interwoven in light and shadow. Sunset was especially tranquil, like a slowly winding landscape painting.
Day 10 Nice → Monaco → Menton → Nice
·morning
After breakfast, we departed Nice and drove slowly towards Monaco along the Alpine-Maritime Highway. The road weaved along the coast, sometimes skirting the sea, sometimes swerving up the mountainside. Overlooking the harbor and the mountain city, the sea breeze carried the scent of metal and salt.
Upon arrival, proceed to the Prince's Palace of Monaco. Built in the 13th century, the palace remains the official residence of the Grimaldi family. Its simple, understated white stone facade is the setting for a daily changing of the guard ceremony at 11:55 AM. While the ceremony is simple, it retains a subtle yet resolute sense of ceremony.
Surrounding the Royal Palace lies Monaco's Old Town, a vibrant neighborhood filled with warm colors. Cobblestone streets, narrow alleyways, flowers behind shuttered windows, and a gentle breeze evoke the everyday life of the Mediterranean. A gentle stroll along the road leads to Monaco Cathedral, a limestone church perched quietly on a clifftop, offering a solemn and tranquil atmosphere. Members of the royal family are buried here, including King Rainier III and Princess Grace Kelly. The stone tombstones blend discreetly into the ground, offering travelers a moment of quietude and remembrance as the breeze blows in from the sea.
·afternoon
In the afternoon, we'll travel to Menton, a small town near the Italian border often called the "Garden of Italy in France." With its warm and pleasant climate, nestled between the mountains and the sea, the colors of Menton lightly unfold in the sunlight, exuding a subtle citrus scent.
Upon arrival, stroll through the Old Town. Cobblestone alleys crisscross the hillside, flanked by pink, orange, and yellow facades. Shutters half-closed, balconies drying laundry and plants, a sense of everyday life washes over you. There's no artificial decor here, yet the sense of leisurely daily life permeates every corner.
Climb the steps to the Cathedral of St. Michel. Perched atop a hill, its light ochre exterior and Baroque bell tower stand out against the backdrop of the sea and sky. Standing on the platform in front of the church, looking down, you can see rows of colorful rooftops, with the azure coastline at the end, creating a tranquil and bright scene.
We returned to Nice in the evening. The sea was still bright along the way, and the afterglow was still flowing slowly between the stone walls and the shadows of the trees.
11th Day Nice (Disbandment Day)
·morning
After breakfast, we headed to the airport according to our respective flight schedules. The scenery outside the car window slowly receded: the light of the Cote d'Azur, the colors of the mountain town, and the vines on the stone walls emerged one by one, then faded away.
There was no formal farewell ceremony. It was only when my luggage landed at the airport gate that I suddenly realized that this journey had quietly come to an end. The streets I walked, the bells I heard, the aroma of roadside coffee will sink into my memory over time, becoming a soft light that will shine in my heart when I accidentally recall it one day.
We say goodbye here, but not goodbye. May you carry the stories and tranquility along the way, continue on your journey, and return to your own life with light.
