France is a country that deserves a lifetime of exploration, but what if you only have one week? With smart planning, you can experience France’s most iconic highlights in just seven days. This itinerary combines the elegance of Paris, the romantic castles of the Loire Valley, and the lavender fields and villages of Provence, giving you the perfect blend of culture, history, food, and landscapes.

Whether it’s your first trip to France or a return visit, this 7-day itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time, while keeping travel efficient and enjoyable.

👉 Before you dive in, check out our complete France Travel Guide and practical tips on Transportation in France for train routes and tickets.

Day 1–3: Paris — Art, History & Romance

Day 1: Arrival & First Impressions

Arrive in Paris and settle into your hotel. Depending on your arrival time, spend your first afternoon exploring nearby neighborhoods. Evening strolls along the Seine River or dinner at a cozy bistro are perfect introductions.

• Must-sees: Eiffel Tower (book tickets in advance), evening Seine river cruise
• Food tip: Try your first French meal at a traditional bistro. See our Food & Drinks in France guide for dining ideas.

Day 2: Classic Paris Highlights

Dedicate your second day to the city’s most famous landmarks.

• Morning: Louvre Museum — home to the Mona Lisa and countless masterpieces
• Afternoon: Walk through the Tuileries, Place de la Concorde, and along the Champs-Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe
• Evening: Explore Montmartre, visit Sacré-Cœur, and enjoy panoramic city views

👉 For more inspiration, see our Things to Do in France.

Day 3: Versailles or Giverny (Day Trip)

Leave the city for a day trip by train.

• Versailles: Palace of Versailles and its gardens — opulent royal grandeur
• Giverny: Monet’s house and the Water Lily Pond — perfect for art lovers

👉 For details, check our blog: Best Day Trips from Paris by Train.

Day 4–5: Loire Valley — Castles & Wine

Getting There

Take a TGV from Paris to Tours (around 1 hour). Tours makes a great base for exploring Loire Valley châteaux.

Day 4: Chambord & Amboise

• Château de Chambord: The largest Loire château, with a double-helix staircase designed by Leonardo da Vinci.
• Amboise: Charming riverside town with its own château and Leonardo’s former residence, Clos Lucé.

Day 5: Chenonceau & Wine Tasting

• Château de Chenonceau: A fairytale castle spanning the River Cher.
• Loire Wine Tasting: Try Sauvignon Blanc, Vouvray, or Chinon reds at local vineyards.

👉 Stay overnight in Tours. For recommendations, see our Accommodation in France.

Day 6–7: Provence — Lavender, Villages & Sunshine

Getting There

From Tours, return to Paris by train and take a TGV south to Avignon (around 2h40). Alternatively, fly from Paris to Marseille.

Day 6: Avignon & Surroundings

• Avignon: Explore the Palais des Papes and Pont Saint-Bénézet.
• Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Famous wine village nearby — great for tastings.

Day 7: Lavender Fields & Hilltop Villages

• Gordes & Roussillon: Two of Provence’s most beautiful villages, with ochre cliffs and panoramic views.
• Lavender Fields (June–July): Visit the Valensole Plateau or Sénanque Abbey for postcard-perfect scenery.
• Alternative: If visiting outside lavender season, explore the Luberon region or enjoy Provençal markets.

👉 Learn more about outdoor adventures in Adventure & Activities in France.

Practical Tips for This Itinerary

• Transport: France’s TGV trains make long-distance travel quick and comfortable. See Transportation Guide for France for details.
• Best time to go: Late spring (May–June) or early fall (September) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Lavender season in Provence peaks in June–July.
• Packing: Comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, and a light jacket. For inspiration, check our blog: Things to Pack Before Your Trip.
• Accommodation: Book early in Paris and Provence, especially during peak seasons. See our Accommodation in France.
• Food & wine: Don’t miss out on local specialties in each region. Explore suggestions in Food & Drinks in France.

Suggested Route Map

Day 1–3: Paris (with day trip)
Day 4–5: Loire Valley (Tours as base)
Day 6–7: Provence (Avignon & Luberon villages)

This loop covers major highlights while keeping travel time efficient.

Final Thoughts

A 7-day France itinerary can’t cover everything, but this plan gives you a taste of France’s most iconic regions: the romance of Paris, the majesty of Loire castles, and the charm of Provence’s sun-drenched landscapes.

It’s the perfect introduction for first-time visitors, while still offering unique experiences for repeat travelers. By combining history, art, food, wine, and nature, you’ll return home with a true sense of France’s magic.

For more inspiration, explore our France Travel Guide and discover related guides on Top Destinations in France and Things to Do in France.