Epic Grand Tour of France: 14 Days by High-Speed Rail
A masterfully planned 14-day grand circuit showcasing the complete cultural tapestry of France. Relying entirely on France’s high-speed TGV and regional rail networks, this journey takes you from the monuments of Paris to the beaches of Nice with zero backtracking.
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Intercity route legs
Day-by-day itinerary
Arrival in Paris and Seine Walk
ParisArrive in Paris, settle into your base, and stroll along the Seine bridges past Notre-Dame.
Louvre and Historic Marais
ParisMorning at the Louvre Museum followed by an afternoon exploring Le Marais boutiques and bakeries.
Montmartre and Eiffel Sunset
ParisClimb to Sacre-Coeur in the morning. Evening picnic on Champ de Mars watching the Eiffel Tower light show.
Day Excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel
NormandyEarly train into Normandy to explore the majestic clifftop abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel.
Loire Valley Fairytale Chateaux
ToursTGV to Tours. Tour the Renaissance arches of Chateau de Chenonceau spanning the river.
TGV to Bordeaux Wine Capital
BordeauxHigh-speed train to Bordeaux Saint-Jean. Walk Place de la Bourse and enjoy caneles.
Medieval Saint-Emilion Vineyards
BordeauxDay trip by regional train to the stone wine village of Saint-Emilion for cellar tastings.
Train to Pink City Toulouse
ToulouseCross southern France to Toulouse. Visit Place du Capitole and sample authentic cassoulet.
Provence and the Popes Palace
AvignonTrain into Provence. Tour the immense Palais des Papes and historic ramparts in Avignon.
Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct
AvignonExcursion to the world’s tallest surviving Roman aqueduct bridge with river swimming.
Gastronomic Capital Lyon
LyonTGV north to Lyon. Climb to Fourviere basilica and dine in an authentic bouchon tavern.
TGV to Nice and Mediterranean Shore
NiceMorning train descending to Nice. Stroll Promenade des Anglais and taste socca.
Monaco and Monte Carlo Day Trip
NiceHop on the 20-minute train to Monaco for the Prince’s Palace and casino atrium.
Old Nice Markets and Departure
NiceMorning flowers and fruits at Cours Saleya market before your departure flight or return train.
✂️ What I Would Cut If Short on Time
Cut the western leg (Normandy and Bordeaux) and focus on the Paris to Provence and Riviera TGV corridor to shorten to 10 days.
Make this trip cheaper
These options use the current typical minimum fare in our route records. They are not guaranteed quotes, and prices can change before booking.
Make the itinerary fit your trip
Change the days in each city, leave out stops, and update the estimate without changing the published itinerary.