The Perfect 10 Day France Itinerary: Explore Paris, Provence & Beyond

France has always felt like more than just a destination—it’s an experience that lingers long after your trip ends. Whether it’s sipping espresso on a Parisian terrace, wandering through lavender fields in Provence, or tasting wine in Bordeaux, every corner of France has its own magic.

When I first sat down to plan my own 10 Day France Itinerary, I wanted a balance of iconic sights, local gems, and enough breathing room to actually enjoy being there. After testing, tweaking, and living it, I’m sharing this detailed day-by-day guide that combines Paris, the French Riviera, Loire Valley castles, and more.

This is the exact 10 Day France Itinerary I wish I had when I first visited—packed with must-sees, best tours, recommended hotels, food spots, and helpful links you can click right into while planning.

So grab a café au lait, and let’s map out your dream trip.

10 Day France Itinerary: Full Guide

Table of contents

10 Day France Itinerary: Full Guide
The Ultimate 10 Day France Itinerary – Day by Day Breakdown
Day 5 – Loire Valley: Fairytale Castles & Wine
Best Time to Follow This 10 Day France Itinerary
Travel Tips for Your 10 Day France Itinerary
Best Hotels for Your 10 Day France Itinerary
10 Day France Itinerary Final Thoughts
FAQs About a 10 Day France Itinerary

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The Ultimate 10 Day France Itinerary – Day by Day Breakdown

Day 1 – Arrival in Paris: First Glimpse of the City of Lights

When you arrive in Paris, the best way to kick off your 10 Day France Itinerary is to ease into the city. I always recommend starting light—shake off the jet lag, stretch your legs, and let the beauty of Paris unfold slowly.

Things to Do:
- Check into your hotel and wander along the Seine River.
- Cross Pont Neuf and admire the views of Île de la Cité.
- In the evening, head to the Trocadéro Gardens to catch your very first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night—it never gets old.
Best Tour to Book: Skip-the-Line Eiffel Tower Guided Tour to avoid long queues.
Where to Stay: Explore this guide on where to stay in Paris on a budget.
Where to Eat: Have dinner at Le Comptoir du Relais—a Parisian classic with glowing reviews.

Day 2 – Paris Essentials: Monuments, Museums & River Cruise

Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set

Day two of your 10 Day France Itinerary is all about hitting the highlights.

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Things to Do:
- Start your morning at the Louvre Museum—home to the Mona Lisa and thousands of masterpieces.
- Walk through the Tuileries Garden towards Place de la Concorde.
- Stroll down the Champs-Élysées all the way to the Arc de Triomphe.
- End your evening with a Seine River cruise—Paris is even more magical from the water.
Best Tour to Book: Louvre Museum Skip-the-Line Guided Tour.
Where to Eat: Grab breakfast at Café de Flore, then enjoy affordable French classics at Bouillon Pigalle.
Extra Resource: For more detailed routes, check this Paris itinerary guide.

Day 3 – Hidden Paris: Montmartre & Montparnasse

By now, your 10 Day France Itinerary should take you beyond the postcard landmarks into Paris’s more artistic corners.

Things to Do:
- Explore Montmartre, wander the cobbled streets, and stop by artists’ stalls in Place du Tertre.
- Visit the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica for panoramic views.
- In the afternoon, head to Tour Montparnasse in Paris for one of the city’s best skyline views.
Best Tour to Book: Montmartre Walking Tour with Wine Tasting.
Where to Eat: Lunch at Pink Mamma—one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in Paris.
Travel with Kids: Don’t miss this guide on what to do in Paris with kids in 3 days.

Day 4 – Day Trip to Versailles

A 10 Day France Itinerary wouldn’t be complete without a day trip to Versailles.

Things to Do:
- Tour the Palace of Versailles—the Hall of Mirrors is breathtaking.
- Wander the gardens designed by André Le Nôtre.
- Explore Marie Antoinette’s charming Hamlet.
Best Tour to Book: Versailles Palace & Gardens Full-Day Tour.
Where to Eat: La Petite Venise, tucked away inside the Versailles grounds, is a lovely stop for lunch.

Day 5 – Loire Valley: Fairytale Castles & Wine

This day in your 10 Day France Itinerary takes you into the storybook world of French châteaux.

Things to Do:
- Explore Château de Chambord with its spiral staircase.
- Visit Château de Chenonceau, stretching gracefully across the River Cher.
- If time allows, enjoy a wine tasting in the Loire Valley.
Best Tour to Book: Loire Valley Castles & Wine Day Trip from Paris.
Where to Eat: Auberge du Bon Laboureur—a cozy, upscale inn with fabulous reviews.

Day 6 – Provence: Lavender Dreams & Hilltop Villages

The south of France feels like another world, and your 10 Day France Itinerary should definitely include it.

Things to Do:
- Stroll through Avignon, once the seat of popes.
- Explore Gordes, one of France’s most beautiful villages.
- If you’re visiting in June or July, don’t miss the lavender fields near Valensole.
Best Tour to Book: Provence Lavender Fields Tour.
Where to Eat: Riverside dining in L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue—known as the “Venice of Provence.”

Day 7 – French Riviera: Nice & Cannes

Now your 10 Day France Itinerary shifts to the glamorous Mediterranean coast.

Things to Do:
- Stroll along the Promenade des Anglais in Nice.
- Sunbathe on the beaches.
- Spend your evening wandering Cannes, home of the famous film festival.
Best Tour to Book: French Riviera Day Tour.
Where to Eat: La Petite Maison—a favorite in Nice with amazing seafood.

Day 8 – Monaco & Eze

One of the most exciting days of your 10 Day France Itinerary is a quick hop into Monaco.

Things to Do:
- Visit the Prince’s Palace.
- Try your luck at the Monte Carlo Casino.
- Stop by the cliffside village of Eze, known for its perfume factories and stunning views.
Best Tour to Book: Monaco & Eze Full-Day Tour.
Where to Eat: Café de Paris Monte-Carlo—classic, elegant dining.

Day 9 – Bordeaux: Wine Country Escape

For wine lovers, Bordeaux is a must in any 10 Day France Itinerary.

Things to Do:
- Take a wine tasting tour in Saint-Émilion.
- Wander Bordeaux’s old town, Place de la Bourse, and the Water Mirror.
- Visit a vineyard estate for a behind-the-scenes look at French winemaking.
Best Tour to Book: Bordeaux Wine & Vineyard Tour.
Where to Eat: La Table De Colette, a Michelin-starred gem.

Day 10 – Farewell in Paris

Your final day of the 10 Day France Itinerary brings you back to Paris for a perfect send-off.

Things to Do:
- Pick up souvenirs at Galeries Lafayette.
- Stroll through the Latin Quarter for one last taste of café culture.
- End with a relaxing picnic by the Seine—the perfect way to say goodbye.
Best Tour to Book: Paris Food & Market Tour.
Where to Eat: Le Train Bleu at Gare de Lyon—historic and unforgettable.

Best Time to Follow This 10 Day France Itinerary

The best months to explore this 10 Day France Itinerary are May, June, September, and October. You’ll find mild weather, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for wine tasting and sightseeing. Summer is lovely but more crowded, while winter is charming if you love festive Christmas markets.

Travel Tips for Your 10 Day France Itinerary

Over the years of traveling in France, I’ve picked up little tricks that make the journey smoother. Here are some tips I wish I had when I first planned my own 10 Day France Itinerary:

1. Pack Light but Smart

French trains and cobblestone streets don’t mix well with heavy luggage. I always travel with one rolling carry-on and a backpack. Bring layers, since weather can shift from cool Paris mornings to hot Riviera afternoons. Don’t forget a light scarf—it’s stylish and practical for churches.

2. Learn a Few French Phrases

Even if your French isn’t perfect, locals appreciate the effort. A simple Bonjour (hello), Merci (thank you), and Parlez-vous anglais? (Do you speak English?) go a long way. I found people instantly warmer when I tried, even clumsily.

3. Use Travel Apps

Trainline for booking trains.
Google Maps for navigating metro and walking routes.
Michelin Guide app for finding amazing restaurants.
Google Translate for menus or quick conversations.
These apps made my 10 Day France Itinerary stress-free.

4. Book in Advance, But Leave Wiggle Room

Tours for the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Versailles, and Provence lavender fields sell out quickly. Book these before you arrive. But also leave space for spontaneity—sometimes the best moments are the unplanned café stops or stumbling upon a local market.

5. Plan for Sundays & Holidays

Many shops and restaurants close on Sundays, especially outside Paris. During my 10 Day France Itinerary, I learned the hard way when half of Bordeaux was shut down. Always check opening hours in advance.

6. Eat Like a Local

Skip tourist traps near major attractions. Instead, walk two or three streets away for authentic bistros. I love checking Google reviews or asking hotel staff for where they eat. The meals became highlights of my 10 Day France Itinerary.

7. Stay Central, Even on a Budget

It might be tempting to save money by staying far out, but trust me—extra commuting eats into your day. I recommend this guide to where to stay in Paris on a budget for affordable, central options.

8. Mind the Timing for the Best Experience

The best months for a 10 Day France Itinerary are May, June, September, and October—pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better prices. If you love lavender fields, aim for late June to mid-July.

Best Hotels for Your 10 Day France Itinerary

Finding the right place to stay can make or break your trip. During my 10 Day France Itinerary, I learned that location is everything—being central saves so much time, especially in Paris and the bigger cities. Below are some of my favorite hotel picks across the route, with options for every budget.

⭐ Paris (Days 1–4 & Day 10)

Budget: Hotel de la Porte Dorée – Charming & Affordable
Cozy rooms near the metro, family-friendly, and excellent reviews. Also see this guide on where to stay in Paris on a budget.
Mid-Range: Hôtel Le Six – Stylish Boutique Hotel
Located in Saint-Germain, with modern design and great service.
Luxury: Shangri-La Paris – Palace Hotel with Eiffel Views
If you want to splurge, this is the Paris hotel experience.

⭐ Loire Valley (Day 5)

Budget: Hotel du Château – Amboise
Affordable, charming, and right near the castles.
Mid-Range: Le Manoir Les Minimes – Historic Stay
A restored manor with incredible views of Château d’Amboise.
Luxury: Château de Noizay
Sleep in an actual château surrounded by vineyards.

⭐ Provence (Day 6)

Budget: Ibis Styles Avignon
Simple, modern, and convenient.
Mid-Range: Hotel Cloitre Saint Louis
A historic convent turned boutique hotel with a pool.
Luxury: La Bastide de Gordes
An elegant hillside escape with lavender views.

⭐ French Riviera (Days 7–8)

Budget: Hotel Rossetti – Nice
Central Old Town location, stylish and affordable.
Mid-Range: Hotel La Pérouse – Nice
With a rooftop pool and Mediterranean views.
Luxury: Hotel Martinez – Cannes
A Riviera icon, steps from the Croisette.

⭐ Bordeaux (Day 9)

Budget: Mama Shelter Bordeaux
Fun, quirky design with a rooftop bar.
Mid-Range: Hotel de Sèze
Elegant rooms and a central location.
Luxury: Les Sources de Caudalie
A wine hotel surrounded by vineyards, with a world-class spa.

My Advice

Book your Paris and Riviera hotels well in advance, especially if your 10 Day France Itinerary falls in summer. In Provence and Bordeaux, boutique hotels and vineyard stays often have limited rooms—reserve early for the best options.

10 Day France Itinerary Final Thoughts

As I look back on this 10 Day France Itinerary, I realize it’s not just about the places you visit—it’s about the way France makes you feel. Standing beneath the Eiffel Tower as it twinkles at night, breathing in lavender on a quiet Provençal morning, watching the Mediterranean shimmer along Nice’s promenade—these aren’t just stops on a map, they’re memories that stay with you long after your suitcase is unpacked.

What I love about this route is its balance: a little bit of everything that makes France so special. You’ll experience the sophistication of Paris, the history and grandeur of Versailles and the Loire, the dreamy pace of Provence, the glitz of the Riviera, and the deep richness of Bordeaux’s wine country. It’s ambitious, yes, but it’s also designed to flow naturally, so you never feel rushed.

If you follow this 10 Day France Itinerary, you’ll come home with more than just photos—you’ll bring back flavors, moments, and stories that feel deeply personal. My advice? Let this itinerary guide you, but also leave space for serendipity. Pause for that extra glass of wine, follow the side street that looks interesting, sit a little longer at the café. Because in France, sometimes the unplanned moments become the best ones.

So, here’s to 10 unforgettable days in France. May your trip be as magical as the country itself—bon voyage!

FAQs About a 10 Day France Itinerary

Is 10 days enough to see France?

Ten days in France will never feel like enough—there’s simply too much beauty to cover in one trip. But with a smart plan, a 10 Day France Itinerary is the perfect balance between iconic highlights and meaningful experiences. You’ll have enough time to fall in love with Paris, step back in time at Versailles, wander through Loire Valley castles, breathe in lavender fields in Provence, soak up the Riviera’s sunshine, and toast with Bordeaux wine. Of course, you won’t see all of France, but you’ll experience its soul. And if you’re like me, it will leave you already dreaming about your next visit.

How much should I budget for a 10 Day France Itinerary?

Budget really depends on your travel style, but here’s a real-world breakdown from my own experience. Mid-range travelers can expect around €150–€200 per day, covering accommodation, food, local transport, and a few tours. Staying at boutique hotels or budget-friendly guesthouses (like the options in this Paris budget stay guide) helps save money without losing comfort. If you’re more of a splurger, especially on the Riviera or in Bordeaux, your daily costs might rise closer to €300+. Either way, a 10 Day France Itinerary is doable without breaking the bank—it’s about balancing indulgence (a Michelin dinner, a guided tour) with simple pleasures (a picnic by the Seine, a fresh baguette on the go).

Can I do this 10 Day France Itinerary with kids?

Absolutely! France is one of the most family-friendly destinations in Europe. Paris alone has endless kid-approved activities—think river cruises, carousels, chocolate shops, and hands-on museums. My favorite family moments came from slowing down: watching my kids chase pigeons outside Sacré-Cœur, or seeing their faces light up at the fountains in Versailles. If you’re traveling with little ones, check out this helpful guide on Europe with kids and this list of things to do in Paris with kids in 3 days. This 10 Day France Itinerary works perfectly for families—it just means swapping out a late-night wine bar for a cozy crêperie.

What’s the best way to get around during the 10 Day France Itinerary?

France’s train system is a dream. The high-speed TGV trains make it easy to hop between Paris, the Loire, Provence, and Bordeaux in just a few hours. I personally love trains—they’re comfortable, scenic, and stress-free compared to driving in French cities. That said, for parts of Provence and the Loire Valley, renting a car adds flexibility (especially if you want to wander through small villages or chase those lavender fields). For the Riviera, trains and buses are excellent, but if you want the freedom to explore hidden beaches, a car is worth it. In short, use a mix of trains and rental cars, depending on the region, to make the most of your 10 Day France Itinerary.