10-Day France Itinerary: Paris, Bordeaux & Aix-en-Provence Travel Guide

Plan the perfect France trip with this 10-day France itinerary featuring Paris highlights, Bordeaux wine tours, and Aix-en-Provence travel tips, hotels, and must-see experiences.

I had the incredible opportunity to visit France with my husband, Steve, and it felt like a dream! We even met up with family in Paris for part of the trip, which made it even more special. My husband and I try to plan a bigger trip once a year together – we like to use that time to reconnect and see new places! Plus, I’ve discovered the only real way to get us both to unplug is to get us in a completely different time zone 😉

We love to travel in the Fall as the weather is typically cooler (we live in Florida and don’t need super hot vacations!) and the crowds are less.

We have been to France before, but it had been a few years. From the moment we arrived, France completely swept us off our feet. It may be because we were completely exhausted from the flight 😉 But….Between the charming streets of Paris, the vineyards of Bordeaux, and the relaxed beauty of Provence, this trip had the perfect balance of exploration, incredible food and wine, and time to simply slow down and enjoy where we were.

If you’re planning a trip to France, this itinerary is truly one of the best ways to experience multiple regions without feeling rushed. I’m sharing everything – from where we stayed to what we ate, plus tips we learned along the way – so you can plan your own unforgettable France vacation.

2 Day Paris Itinerary: The Perfect Start to Our 10-Day France Trip

Our flight arrived in Paris around 9 AM, and like many international arrivals, our hotel room wasn’t ready yet. Instead of rushing, we embraced that first jet-lagged morning the best way possible – with cappuccinos and a long walk.

There’s something so magical about those first moments in Paris. The architecture, the cafés, the energy…it all feels like stepping into a movie. We wandered through the gardens near the Louvre, taking our time and easing into the rhythm of the city before heading to our hotel.

Where We Stayed in Paris

We stayed at Hôtel Edouard 7, located just steps from the Opéra Garnier in one of the most walkable areas of the city.

What I really loved about this hotel is how it blends classic Parisian charm with modern comfort. The building itself has history, it was once the residence of King Edward VII! And you can feel that elegance throughout the property. At the same time, the rooms are updated, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, which is exactly what you want after long days of exploring. We opted for an upgrade where we had a little balcony – was it worth it? Not 100% sure, but we enjoyed it.

The location was one of the biggest highlights. We were able to walk to so many major Paris attractions, pop into cafés for a quick espresso, and easily head out for dinner or drinks without needing transportation. Plus, since we ate our fair share of pastries, I was pretty happy to get my steps in.

They also offer a beautiful breakfast service and have a cozy bar area, which is perfect if you want to unwind with a cocktail after a full day in the city.

We checked in once our room was ready and, in true travel fashion, immediately took a much-needed three-hour nap before heading back out into Paris.

An Iconic Night at Crazy Horse

To kick off our first evening in Paris, we met up with my brother and sister-in-law and headed to the Crazy Horse Saloon to see their iconic show, Totally Crazy.

Seeing a show at the Crazy Horse Saloon was one of the most unique and memorable experiences we had in Paris. We saw it the last time we were in Paris too!

Unlike other cabarets, Crazy Horse is known for its artistic approach to performance, blending dance, lighting, and visual effects in a way that feels more like a theatrical production than a traditional show.

The choreography is precise, the lighting design is incredible, and each segment feels like its own creative story. It’s bold and definitely a bit edgy, but also very elegant and tastefully done.

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Paris at night beyond the typical tourist attractions, this is absolutely worth adding to your Paris itinerary.

Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur Basilica

On our second day, we originally planned to visit Notre Dame, but the weekend crowds were overwhelming. Instead, we shifted gears and explored Montmartre and honestly, it’s one of our favorite parts of Paris.

Montmartre feels like its own little village inside the city. Artists paint in the squares, cobblestone streets wind uphill, and cafés spill out onto sidewalks.

At the top sits Sacré-Cœur Basilica, where you’re rewarded with sweeping panoramic views of Paris. It’s peaceful, scenic, and absolutely worth the climb. This is probably one of my favorite pictures from our time in Paris….We convinced my husband and his brother to pose like they were trying to be someone fancy…Made us girls laugh, but I have to admit, they look pretty good 🙂

Cocktails at Little Red Door

After shopping and walking around and before seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkle, we headed to Little Red Door – it was a super small and cool bar that served up completely unique cocktails.

This isn’t your typical cocktail bar. The menu is incredibly creative and often conceptual, with drinks inspired by ideas, ingredients, or even emotions. If you’re feeling adventurous, I highly recommend doing the tasting experience like we did.

Each cocktail was beautifully presented and thoughtfully crafted, and the staff does a great job explaining the inspiration behind each drink. It felt less like just grabbing a cocktail and more like being part of a curated experience.

Eiffel Tower Evenings + Seine River Dining Experience

We made our way to see it light up at night, and it truly never gets old. Every evening, once the sun goes down, the Eiffel Tower sparkles for 5 minutes at the top of every hour until about 1:00 AM. It’s one of those simple but unforgettable Paris moments that feels almost surreal when you see it in person.

There’s something special about not rushing this part. We didn’t just stop for photos – we stayed, walked, and explored the surrounding riverfront area. We found a place to eat on the Seine River and enjoyed the view, eats and cocktails.

There are plenty of riverside cafés and restaurants where you can sit outside and enjoy the view. Whether you’re grabbing a glass of wine, enjoying a long French dinner, or just stopping for dessert, it’s one of the most relaxing ways to experience the city. Plus, you really can’t beat the view!

Be ready to get your steps in! Even without walking thru the Notre Dame Cathedral, we got in over 23,000 steps!

Travel Tip: Best Eiffel Tower Experience

If you want the best Eiffel Tower experience:

• Plan to arrive about 30–60 minutes before sunset
• Stay through at least one full sparkle cycle (or two!)
• Walk along the Seine afterward instead of rushing away

It’s one of those moments that doesn’t need a strict plan…just time, comfortable shoes, and a willingness to wander.

And just like that, our Paris portion of this France itinerary came to a close, setting the stage for the next chapter: wine country.

For a closer look at our trip, I’ve shared some of our favorite moments on Instagram – swipe through our Highlight or check out these posts: [post 1], [post 2], [post 3].

Paris to Bordeaux: A Scenic Train Journey

One of the easiest and most enjoyable parts of traveling through France is the high-speed train system. Our journey from Paris to Bordeaux took about three hours and was smooth, scenic, and incredibly relaxing.

We watched the city fade into countryside vineyards, rolling farmland, and small French towns. It was the perfect transition from Parisian energy to wine country calm.

The train ride took about 3 hours, so when we arrived, we were ready to stretch our legs. We checked into the hotel and then walked around to explore the city, and went out to dinner.

4 Day Bordeaux Itinerary: Wine, Culture & Food Experiences

If you’re building a France itinerary for wine lovers, Bordeaux is an absolute must.

This region is world-famous for its wines, but the city itself is just as amazing, with elegant architecture, incredible dining, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Where We Stayed in Bordeaux

We stayed at Le Palais Gallien Hôtel & Spa, and this hotel felt like a hidden gem.

It’s a boutique luxury property with only a small number of rooms, which gives it a very private, peaceful feel. Our room was a nice size and even had a jacuzzi tub, which made it feel like a little retreat within the city.

The design throughout the hotel is modern and elegant, and the service was exceptional. It’s the kind of place where you feel taken care of from the moment you arrive.

Another big plus is the location – you’re close enough to walk to the historic center, restaurants, and shops, but just far enough away that it feels quiet and relaxing at night. We could walk just about everywhere or get to the public transit to get us to anywhere else!

Visiting La Cité du Vin (Bordeaux Wine Museum)

On our 1st full day in Bordeaux, we visited the wine museum, Cite du Vin. I highly recommend a visit here. There was so much to see and so much to learn! If you love wine even a little bit, this is a must-do.

This isn’t your typical museum. It’s a fully immersive, interactive experience dedicated to wine culture from around the world – not just Bordeaux. The building itself is stunning and modern, designed to resemble wine swirling in a glass, and it immediately sets the tone for what’s inside.

We had an immersive tasting with a tour guide, explored the museum, and enjoyed an amazing lunch with delicious food on the top floor of the museum. After lunch, we had our immersive tasting experience that included 4 wines that corresponded to the seasons, and it was amazing.

We walked through the entire museum, which I highly recommend, note that there are different tiers of tickets, so make sure that you get the ones that include the whole museum. We finished our museum trip with another tasting on the top floor with fantastic views!

We spent hours exploring the exhibits, and honestly, we could have stayed even longer. There are over 20 different themed areas, and everything is incredibly engaging. You’ll find:

• Interactive displays where you can “travel” through global wine regions
• Sensory experiences that help you better understand aromas and flavors
• Short films and storytelling about the history of wine across different cultures
• Fun, hands-on exhibits that make learning about wine approachable and not intimidating

It’s one of those places where whether you’re a wine beginner or a total enthusiast, you’ll walk away having learned something new.

Lunch with a View – Le 7 Restaurant

One of the most memorable parts of our visit was lunch at Le 7 Restaurant, located on the top floor of the museum.

The views alone are worth it—you get panoramic scenery overlooking the Garonne River and the city of Bordeaux, which makes for such a relaxing break in the middle of exploring.

The menu focuses on seasonal, locally inspired dishes, and everything we had was fresh, beautifully presented, and thoughtfully paired. It felt like a true dining experience, not just a quick stop.

Wine Tasting Experience

After lunch, we participated in a guided tasting experience that was truly unique. Instead of just sampling wines, the tasting was built around the seasons – each wine representing a different time of year.

It was such a creative way to explore flavor profiles and really made you think differently about wine. The guide walked us through each selection, explaining the origins, tasting notes, and what made each one special.

At the very end of your visit, your ticket also includes access to the Belvedere (the top floor wine bar), where you can enjoy a glass of wine while taking in those incredible 360° views. It’s the perfect way to wrap up your experience.

Tips for Visiting La Cité du Vin

• Book your tickets in advance, especially during busy travel seasons
• Allow at least 2–3 hours (you’ll want the time!)
• Upgrade your ticket if possible to include tastings and full access
• Don’t skip the Belvedere—the views + wine combo is unbeatable
• Plan lunch at Le 7 if you want a more elevated experience

After we left the museum, we walked around the city and found a huge Nespresso store. We had to go in and take some pictures for my daughter, Sadie. And, of course, we had to buy her some coffees!

We also found a beautiful church to walk through and discovered they were having a light show 2 nights later.

We bought tickets, and I am so glad we did. It was amazing! More on that soon, be sure to scroll down 🙂

That night, for dinner, we found a cozy spot in the hotel and feasted on cheese, snacks, and wine.

Cooking Class with The Gastronome Bordeaux

On our third day in Bordeaux, we had a phenomenal cooking class with The Gastronome. I really love taking cooking classes from a local anytime we can when we travel. You can learn so much about the food, culture, and community of wherever you are visiting this way.

We started our class by heading to the Marchés des Capucins, a local market, for ingredients.  We picked out ingredients like fresh figs, vegetables, duck, and cheeses- everything we would later use in our cooking class. It made the experience feel even more connected and meaningful.

This is one of Bordeaux’s largest and most well-known markets, often referred to as the “belly of Bordeaux.” It’s where locals shop, chefs source ingredients, and visitors can truly get a taste of everyday life in the city.

As we walked through the market, we saw stalls overflowing with fresh produce, local cheeses, seafood, meats, baked goods, and more. The energy is lively and bustling, and it’s the kind of place where you want to take your time, sample what you can, and soak it all in.

Once we returned from the market, we planned our menu, which included beet salad, duck, cassoulet, and wine, of course! Cassoulet is similar to a casserole or slow-cooked stew, often made with duck or pork belly, and it tastes amazing!

Cooking & Creating a French Meal

Back in the kitchen, we worked together to prepare a full French menu, including beet salad, duck, cassoulet and dessert.

If you’ve never had cassoulet, it’s a rich, slow-cooked dish typically made with duck, beans, and sometimes pork. It’s hearty, comforting, and deeply rooted in French culinary tradition.

What I loved most about this experience was how approachable everything felt. Chef Daniel guided us step-by-step, sharing tips, techniques, and little insights that you wouldn’t get from a recipe alone.

Sharing the Meal

Once everything was prepared, we sat down together to enjoy the meal, and of course, it was paired with wine.

There’s something really special about sitting down to eat a meal that you helped create, especially in a place like Bordeaux. It felt relaxed, authentic, and incredibly rewarding.

Why You Should Do a Cooking Class in Bordeaux

If you’re planning a trip to Bordeaux, I can’t recommend this experience enough.

It’s not just about the food, it’s about:

• Connecting with local culture
• Learning traditions firsthand
• Slowing down and being present

It ended up being one of the most memorable parts of our entire trip! Seriously, can’t recommend it enough!

Saint-Émilion Wine Tour: A Must-Do from Bordeaux

The next day was our wine tasting day with Elodie,and she was absolutely amazing!  She was so knowledgeable and friendly, and gave us tons of information about wineries and the history of St. Emilion.

Spending a day in Saint-Émilion was truly wonderful and something we will remember forever!

This historic village is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and once you arrive, it’s easy to see why. The town dates back over 2,000 years, with vineyards first planted by the Romans in the 2nd century. Later, Benedictine monks helped establish it as a center for winemaking, and today it’s one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world, especially known for its Merlot-based wines.

The town itself feels like stepping back in time. Cobblestone streets wind through charming stone buildings, and everywhere you look there are views of vineyards stretching across the countryside.

Wine Tasting at Château Guadet

We visited Château Guadet, where we got a behind-the-scenes look at how the wine is produced, aged, and stored.

Château Guadet is a historic, family-owned estate right in the heart of the village.

What makes Château Guadet especially unique is that it’s considered a “garage wine” producer, meaning production is intentionally small and highly focused on quality. Everything is done with incredible attention to detail, from the vineyard to the cellar, and you can really taste that dedication in the wines.

During our visit, we had the chance to walk through the cellars and learn about the entire winemaking process, from fermentation to aging. The barrels, the stone walls, the atmosphere—it all felt so authentic and rooted in tradition.

Of course, the experience ended with a tasting, and the wines were absolutely beautiful, rich, balanced, and exactly what you hope for when visiting Saint-Émilion. It gave us such a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind every bottle.

One of the highlights was learning a traditional wine opening technique (always fun to bring home a new skill!), followed by a tasting that really showcased the depth and complexity of wines from this region.

Lunch + Wine Pairing Experience

After our tasting, we enjoyed a beautiful lunch featuring fresh oysters paired with wine from Château Figeac. Which was completely unexpected actually! We were sitting at lunch when the family next to us offered us their decanted wine. Elodie quickly accepted, and when the family left she gave us the story of the wine and the family – once in a lifetime experience and opportunity to sip!

There’s just something about sitting in wine country, enjoying fresh seafood and perfectly paired wine, that feels so quintessentially French. It was relaxed, delicious, and one of those meals you don’t forget.

Exploring the Village

After lunch, we spent time wandering through the village, popping into small shops, taking in the views, and exploring historic landmarks like the monolithic church carved directly into limestone.

It’s the kind of place where you don’t need a strict plan, just walking and discovering is part of the experience.

After Elodie dropped us back off at the hotel, we saw the town’s oldest coliseum in Bordeaux, then we went to that amazing lightshow at the church. We ended a fantastic day with JUNK smash burgers in bed. It was absolute perfection!

Luminiscence in Bordeaux

This was an absolute MUST! If you happen to be walking around in Bordeaux ad see a sign for this in front of a church – buy tickets! The music was all in French, and even though our French was limited, we were awe-struck! It was one of the most beautiful things we have experienced – from the music to the carefully orchestrated lights. It was pure magic.

After soaking in the beauty and flavors of Bordeaux, it was time to slow things down even more as we headed south to Provence.

4 Day Aix-en-Provence Itinerary: Slow Travel in Southern France

Arriving in Aix-en-Provence felt like stepping into a completely different pace of life – in the best way possible.

The next day, we hopped on a plane to Aix-en-Provence, where we spent our next 3 nights. During our visit, we stayed at the Villa Galici hotel. The grounds and spa were absolutely gorgeous, breakfast was yummy, and the jacuzzi, sauna, and cold room were all free and fantastic.  

The rooms were beautifully decorated, but I’ll be honest, they were a little much for our tastes. The staff put rose petals on our pillows each night, which was really nice. We spent one day here just relaxing, sipping wine, enjoying simple meals, and enjoying the pool terrace.

This is where your France itinerary shifts from exploration to more relaxation.

Exploring Aix-en-Provence

After the energy of Paris and the wine-filled days in Bordeaux, arriving in Aix-en-Provence felt like stepping into a completely different pace of life—in the best way possible.

Aix-en-Provence is known for its tree-lined streets, elegant architecture, and relaxed Provençal charm. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find locals lingering at outdoor cafés, markets filled with fresh produce and lavender, and fountains tucked into quiet squares.

We loved simply wandering the streets, taking in the soft colors of the buildings, and stopping whenever something caught our eye, which, in Aix-en-Provence, happens often.

The famous Cours Mirabeau is the heart of the city, lined with cafés and shaded by plane trees, making it the perfect place to sit, sip a glass of wine, and people-watch for a while.

It’s a city that invites you to slow down and honestly, that’s exactly what we needed at that point in the trip.

Where We Stayed in Aix-en-Provence

We stayed at Villa Gallici Hotel & Spa, and while it may not have been exactly our personal decor style, it was still such a memorable stay.

A Historic Provençal Mansion with Timeless Charm

Villa Gallici isn’t just a hotel – it’s an experience rooted in history and design.

The property is set within an 18th-century Provençal bastide (country house), originally designed to reflect the elegance and charm of traditional southern French living.

What makes it especially interesting is that the hotel, as it exists today, was thoughtfully created by a group of visionaries who wanted to bring a true luxury country house experience to Aix-en-Provence – something that didn’t really exist at the time.

The result is something that feels both historic and intentionally designed, like a romanticized version of Provence brought to life.

From the moment you walk through the gates, it feels less like a hotel and more like a private estate tucked away from the world.

The Grounds: A Private Garden Escape in the Heart of Aix

One of the things that makes Villa Gallici so special is its setting. The hotel is surrounded by lush Italian-style gardens, filled with cypress trees, fragrant flowers, and quiet corners that feel made for lingering.

There’s a beautiful heated outdoor pool, shaded terraces, and hidden seating areas where you can sip wine, read a book, or simply enjoy the stillness. Even though you’re just a short walk from the center of Aix-en-Provence, it feels completely removed from the energy of the city—in the best way possible.

It’s that perfect balance of:

• Close to everything
• But peaceful enough to truly relax

Rooms & Suites: Romantic, Elegant & Full of Character

The rooms at Villa Gallici are anything but standard.

There are just 23 rooms and suites, and each one is uniquely designed with:

• Antique furnishings
• Rich fabrics like velvet and damask
• Canopy beds and ornate details
• Marble bathrooms and curated décor

Many rooms open up to private terraces or garden views, which makes the entire experience feel even more intimate and personal. We loved sitting on our balcony and enjoying the view of the gardens!

Our room was beautifully decorated, almost like stepping into a romantic European painting. While it leaned a bit more ornate than our usual style, there’s no denying how special and thoughtfully designed everything felt.

And those little touches – like rose petals on the pillows each night – made it feel even more memorable.

Spa & Wellness: A True Relaxation Experience

The spa at Villa Gallici is another standout feature, and honestly, one of the reasons it’s such a perfect place to slow down during a France itinerary.

Set in a charming pavilion within the gardens, the spa offers:

• Jacuzzi
• Sauna
• Cryotherapy (cold room)
• Heated outdoor pool
• Sothys luxury treatments

It’s designed to be a full sensory experience, combining relaxation with classic French wellness traditions.

We absolutely loved that so many of these amenities were included – it made it easy to truly unwind without feeling like you had to plan anything extra.

Dining at Villa Gallici: Provençal Flavors in an Elegant Setting

Villa Gallici is also home to its own gourmet restaurant, where the cuisine is inspired by the flavors of Provence and the Mediterranean.

Dining here feels like an experience in itself:

• Candlelit tables
• Beautiful terrace seating under the trees
• Seasonal, locally inspired dishes

The chef focuses on creating refined dishes that highlight regional ingredients, giving you a true taste of Provence without ever leaving the property.

The Overall Experience: Romantic, Peaceful & Perfect for Slowing Down

What makes Villa Gallici so special isn’t just one thing, it’s how everything comes together.

• Quiet mornings with coffee on the terrace
• Afternoons spent by the pool with a glass of wine
• Feeling that you don’t need to go anywhere to enjoy your day

For us, it became the perfect place to pause after the energy of Paris and the activity of Bordeaux.

We spent one full day here doing exactly that – relaxing, sipping wine, enjoying simple meals, and soaking in the peaceful surroundings – and it ended up being one of our favorite parts of the trip.

Why Villa Gallici Is Worth It for Your France Itinerary

If you’re planning a Provence itinerary or looking for where to stay in Aix-en-Provence, Villa Gallici is ideal if you want:

• A romantic, luxury boutique hotel
• A peaceful retreat close to the city center
• A stay that feels immersive and uniquely French
• A place to truly slow down and enjoy the moment

It’s not just a place to sleep, it’s part of the experience.

Breakfast each morning was fresh and delicious, and the pool terrace quickly became our favorite spot to unwind with a glass of wine.

The staff also added thoughtful touches, which made the experience feel extra special.

Dinner at Les Caves Henri 4: A Historic & Unforgettable Dining Experience in Aix-en-Provence

We had the best meal of our whole trip in Aix en Provence at Les Caves Henri 4. We chose the chef-created meal, and every bite was delicious and memorable. We would highly recommend it!

A Restaurant Steeped in History

Les Caves Henri IV isn’t just a restaurant – it’s a true piece of Aix-en-Provence history.

The space is set inside vaulted stone cellars dating all the way back to 1495, which immediately gives the entire experience a sense of intimacy and timelessness.

As soon as you walk in, you feel it.

The soft lighting, the curved stone ceilings, and the centuries-old architecture create a warm, almost romantic atmosphere that feels completely different from a traditional dining room. It’s quiet, cozy, and elegant without being overly formal—exactly the kind of place where you want to slow down and savor every moment.

It’s no surprise this spot has become something of an institution in Aix, loved by both locals and visitors looking for a truly authentic Provençal dining experience.

The Culinary Vision: Seasonal, Elegant & Deeply French

The kitchen is led by Chef Thomas Roret, who focuses on refined French cuisine rooted in seasonal, local ingredients.

What I loved most is that the food feels elevated, but not overcomplicated.

Each dish is thoughtfully composed, beautifully plated, and highlights the natural flavors of the ingredients. You can really tell there’s a strong connection to the Provençal terroir, with dishes that feel both traditional and modern at the same time.

Menu Options: From Simple Elegance to Full Tasting Experiences

One of the things that makes Les Caves Henri IV so appealing is that there are multiple ways to experience the menu, depending on how indulgent you’re feeling.

Here’s what you can typically expect:

• 3-course seasonal menus – perfect for a refined but approachable dining experience
• Multi-course tasting menus (5–7 courses) – designed to showcase the chef’s creativity and seasonal ingredients
• À la carte options – allowing you to mix and match dishes
• Wine pairings – featuring both local Provence wines and prestigious French selections

Menus change regularly (often every few weeks), ensuring everything is fresh, seasonal, and inspired by what’s available locally.

Pricing can vary depending on the experience, but generally:

• Lunch menus are more approachable
• Dinner tasting menus range from elevated to truly indulgent experiences

Some menus feature standout dishes like:

• Delicately prepared seafood
• Rich, slow-cooked meats
• Creative vegetable-focused plates
• Beautifully composed desserts that feel like edible art

And of course, the wine list is just as thoughtfully curated, with options that perfectly complement each course.

The Experience: Intimate, Memorable & Worth Slowing Down For

We chose the chef-created tasting menu, and from the very first course, we knew we were in for something special.

Each dish felt intentional. Each course built on the last.

And what really stood out was how unrushed the experience felt.

This isn’t a quick dinner—it’s the kind of place where you:

• linger over each course
• sip your wine slowly
• and truly enjoy the moment

The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the service makes you feel like you’re being taken care of from start to finish.

Why Les Caves Henri 4 Is a Must-Visit in Aix-en-Provence

If you’re planning a trip to Provence and looking for where to eat in Aix-en-Provence, this is absolutely a restaurant to prioritize.

It’s not just about the food – it’s about:

• Dining in a space that’s over 500 years old
• Experiencing elevated French cuisine in an intimate setting
• Enjoying a meal that feels both local and unforgettable

It’s one of those restaurants where you slow down, savor every bite, and leave already thinking about when you can come back.

Embracing the Slow Travel Lifestyle

One of the best decisions we made was to take a full day to simply relax, enjoying wine, simple meals, and the peaceful surroundings.

It was the perfect way to recharge before heading to Amsterdam. More on that soon!

Sample 10-Day France Itinerary

If you’re wondering how to structure your trip, here’s exactly how our 10 day France itinerary flowed – balancing sightseeing, food and wine experiences, and time to slow down and truly enjoy each destination.

Days 1–3: Paris Itinerary Highlights

Start your France itinerary in Paris, where you can ease into the trip while exploring some of the most iconic sights in the world.

Day 1: Arrival + Café Culture + Evening Experience

• Arrive in Paris and drop your bags at your hotel
• Enjoy a relaxed walk near the Louvre or along the Seine
• Stop for cappuccinos and pastries at a local café
• Check in, rest, and freshen up
• Head out for an evening experience like the Crazy Horse Paris show
• End the night with a glass of wine or a late dinner

Day 2: Montmartre, Views & Paris at Night

• Explore Montmartre’s cobblestone streets and artist square
• Visit Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic city views
• Shop local boutiques and enjoy a leisurely lunch
• Stop at a cocktail bar like Little Red Door
• Watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night
• Walk along the Seine and enjoy dinner with a view

Day 3: Flexible Sightseeing + Travel Day

• Optional: Visit Notre Dame Cathedral (go early if possible)
• Explore neighborhoods, shops, or museums
• Grab a relaxed lunch before heading to the train station
• Take the high-speed train to Bordeaux

Paris Tip: Don’t overschedule- some of the best moments happen when you wander.

Days 4–7: Bordeaux Itinerary for Wine Lovers

Next, shift from city energy to wine country charm in Bordeaux—one of the highlights of any France food and wine itinerary.

Day 4: Arrival + Explore Bordeaux

• Check into your hotel and settle in
• Walk through the historic city center
• Enjoy dinner at a local wine bar or restaurant
• Keep it relaxed after your travel day

Day 5: La Cité du Vin + Wine Experiences

• Visit La Cité du Vin (book tickets in advance)
• Explore immersive exhibits and global wine regions
• Enjoy lunch at Le 7 Restaurant overlooking the river
• Participate in a guided tasting experience
• End with a glass of wine at the Belvedere

Day 6: Cooking Class + Local Market

• Start at Marché des Capucins to source fresh ingredients
• Take a hands-on cooking class (like The Gastronome)
• Prepare a traditional French meal (hello, cassoulet!)
• Sit down and enjoy your meal with wine
• Spend the evening relaxing or exploring the city

Day 7: Saint-Émilion Wine Tour

• Take a day trip to Saint-Émilion (about 45 minutes away)
• Explore the historic UNESCO-listed village
• Visit a vineyard like Château Gaudet
• Enjoy a guided wine tasting
• Have lunch with wine pairings (don’t skip the oysters!)
• Wander the village and soak in vineyard views

Bordeaux Tip: Plan at least one structured experience (tour or class) and one completely open day.

Days 8–10: Aix-en-Provence Itinerary & Slow Travel

End your trip in Provence, where the pace slows and the focus shifts to enjoying the moment.

Day 8: Travel to Aix-en-Provence + Settle In

• Fly or take a train to Aix-en-Provence
• Check into your hotel (Villa Gallici is perfect for relaxing)
• Enjoy a quiet dinner or wine on the terrace
• Take it easy after travel

Day 9: Explore Aix + Incredible Dining

• Wander the charming streets of Aix-en-Provence
• Stroll along Cours Mirabeau
• Browse local markets and boutiques
• Stop for coffee, rosé, or gelato along the way
• Enjoy a memorable dinner at Les Caves Henri IV

Day 10: Relaxation + Slow Travel Day

• Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast
• Spend time by the pool or at the spa
• Sip wine and enjoy simple, fresh meals
• Take in the peaceful surroundings before heading to your next destination

Provence Tip: This is your “do less, enjoy more” portion of the trip – lean into it.

France Packing List

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight layers
• Compact umbrella
• Crossbody bag
• Dressy outfit for dinners
• Travel adapter

Know Before You Go

A lot Restaurants Close Midday
Most restaurants in France close somewhere between 2 and 3 in the afternoon and don’t reopen until about 7 for dinner service. If you want to eat lunch, you will need to plan accordingly.  We missed lunch a few times, but there are plenty of markets where you can grab bread, cheese, and fruit for a snack.

Pack Comfortable Shoes
If you are anything like us, you will be doing a LOT of walking. Make sure you have comfortable shoes to wear while you are doing it!

Visit Notre Dame on a Weekday
The crowds at the Notre Dame Cathedral are absolutely crazy on the weekends.  Our tour guide even refunded our money and asked us to come another time. My brother and sister-in-law returned on Monday with no problems and no large crowds.

Expect Rain in Fall
Fall in France can be quite rainy. You need to carry an umbrella with you as you explore because you never know when a shower might pop up and surprise you.

Consider a Travel Agent
Planning a trip to France can seem a bit intimidating, especially for a long trip with multiple destinations like we had. We used the help of a travel agent, and they helped to coordinate everything from accommodations to sightseeing tours. I would highly recommend using one for trips like these.

FAQ: Planning a Trip to France

How many days do you need in France?
About 10 days is ideal for visiting multiple regions.

What’s the best way to travel between cities?
High-speed trains are easy and efficient. We did take a plane from Bordeaux to Aix-en-Provence, the train would have taken about 7 hours and the flight was under 2 hours.

Is Bordeaux worth visiting?
Absolutely – especially for wine lovers.

Do you need to speak French?
Not necessarily – English is widely spoken in tourist areas.

Final Thoughts

Steve and I had the most amazing time, and it was really wonderful to spend part of our trip with family too. There is still plenty we would love to see and do in France, so I am sure we will visit again!

If you love exploring Europe as much as we do, be sure to check out some of our other favorite European vacations:

• Our Family Adventure to Iceland
• Copenhagen Itinerary and Our Favorite Things To Do
• Athens and Crete: A 7-Day Family Travel Adventure Filled with Food, Culture, and Unforgettable Memories

Have you been to France? I’d love to hear your favorite places!

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