Rhone Road Trip 10-Day Itinerary
Wine, History, Food, and the Countryside
Dreaming of a phenomenal trip around the Rhone Valley but feeling a bit overwhelmed on where to begin, the ideal destinations, the budget, or the timeframe? This itinerary will let you take in all of the nightlife, delicious food, museums, and small town charm. Let this be your travel guide, providing everything you need to put together a fantastic 10-day journey around the region.
If you follow this guide, you'll find local wineries, colorful towns, historical sights, and beautiful countryside. All of the specific planning information you need will be covered below, such as the route, expected budget, activities, and where to stay.
This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:
- Marseille (2 days)
- Arles (1 day)
- Avignon (2 days)
- Lyon (2 days)
- Annecy (1 day)
- Geneva (2 days)
Annecy, France
Itinerary Highlights
- Great for couples
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Small Town Charm
- Delicious Food
- Historic Sites
- Hiking
- Beautiful Locations
Ensure you include visits to the region's delightful small towns in your plans. They present a fantastic chance to connect with and experience the local culture. In particular, make sure you visit Avignon and Annecy for that quintessential small town charm.
Indulging in delectable cuisine is a major motivator for travel, and a visit to the Rhone Valley is no different. Brace yourself for an abundance of outstanding restaurants and local dishes that are simply a must-try. The food in Marseille, Arles, and Avignon is especially delicious.
So much history is to be found in the Rhone Valley. Don't miss the historic architecture, museums, and charming vibe of the area.
When you're in the Rhone Valley, the hiking is a game-changer, and you don't want to miss it. Make some time to explore the local trails, where you'll be treated to stunning views, revitalizing fresh air, and a solid workout. Some of the most amazing scenery is found around Marseille, Lyon, and Arles.
the Rhone Valley pulls in visitors for its breathtaking scenery, a key highlight of the region. Don't forget your camera - trust me, the real-life experience is even more awe-inspiring. You don't want to miss Marseille, Lyon, and Arles for the beautiful scenery.
Arles, France
When is the best time to visit?
You can easily dive into the vibrant energy of summer in the Rhone Valley, a season that attracts plenty of visitors. While crowds are part of the deal, the flip side is that all attractions and amenities will be at your fingertips, making it an ideal time to explore.
Who is this itinerary for?
the Rhone Valley isn't just a fun destination, it's also a haven for couples seeking a romantic getaway. If you and your loved one are on this adventure together, you're in for a special treat. Especially visit Marseille, Arles, and Avignon for the enchanting atmosphere.
If you're planning a family getaway, the area is an absolute winner for a fantastic, kid-friendly trip. There's a wide variety of activities tailored for the little ones. We'll dig into more details below. In particular, make a point to visit Annecy and Lyon.
This area offers a myriad of travel choices perfect for those on a budget or backpacking adventure. Whether it's budget-friendly hostels, affordable hotels, free activities, pocket-friendly dining, or the lively social scene, you're in for a fantastic trip even if you're pinching pennies. Spending more time in Lyon can especially help your budget.
Geneva, Switzerland
Transportation
Getting from one destination to another in the Rhone Valley is generally easy, with the majority of these places being approximately 2 hours apart.
We selected Marseille as the starting point because it offers plenty of transporation options. At the end, this itinerary loops back around to the start to make it convenient, but you could also arrive or leave from any destination along the way. To get to Marseille, you can see flight prices and schedules here.
If you're following this itinerary, a car is a good way to do it. Don't stress if you didn't bring yours; renting a car is easy. Having your own car in the Rhone Valley means you're the boss of your schedule, and you can stop wherever and whenever you please.
Traveling by train through the Rhone Valley is not only easy, but also affordable and efficient. While trains connect major cities very quickly, getting to smaller destinations can sometimes take a little more time. Some smaller towns may even require connecting to local buses. But generally, it's easy to get around if you stick to the main routes, and you'll be able to sit back and admire the views out the window. Check out the ticket prices and schedules ahead of time, too.
Is 10 days enough time in the Rhone Valley?
Yes, 10 days should give you ample time to explore the key destinations in the Rhone Valley. Our carefully crafted itinerary ensures you can savor these locales at a leisurely pace, making your trip both relaxed and enjoyable. Of course, if you're eager for more local experiences, feel free to extend your stay or delve deeper into each spot. Day trip options abound, offering flexibility. Conversely, if time is tight, you can customize this suggested itinerary for a shorter yet fulfilling visit. While trimming destinations is an option, we recommend sticking to around 10 days to truly appreciate everything.
Pont d'Avignon, France
How much does a 10-day trip to the Rhone Valley cost?
The estimated budget breakdown for this 10-day trip through the Rhone Valley is shown below. This budget is based on our daily average travel costs which come from the spending habits of actual travelers along with cost data from major companies. The daily average costs are per person and do not include the transportation between destinations. These estimated costs are meant to be a guide. You can stay close to thse costs by staying at mid-level hotels, eating at normal restaurants, and paying for some of the main attractions in each location. It's possible to stay on a cheaper budget if you stay in hostels or budget hotels and eat at less expensive restaurants. It's also very easy to go over this budget by staying at high-end luxury hotels, eating at fancy restaurants, and taking private tours.
| City | Daily Average | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marseille | $158 | 2 | $317 |
| Arles | $153 | 1 | $153 |
| Avignon | $763 | 2 | $1,525 |
| Lyon | $136 | 2 | $272 |
| Annecy | $193 | 1 | $193 |
| Geneva | $210 | 2 | $419 |
| Total per Person | $2,879 | ||
| for 2 People | $5,758 | ||
From these calculations, the estimated cost for this 10-day itinerary of the Rhone Valley costs $2,879 per person. This does not include the transportation between destinations, as that cost will vary depending on your chosen option.
Accommodation Costs
Trying to figure out how much you'll pay for hotels on this trip? Below is the expected cost for accommodations for this trip through the Rhone Valley based on calculated averages.
Hotel Prices
For your accommodation costs, the average hotel room price for each destination is shown below. This hotel cost data is calculated from the prices of hotels provided by Kayak, and do not include taxes and fees. The average prices represent typical mid-range hotel rooms, but it's always possible to spend more or less than this average if you stay in budget-friendly or high-end luxury hotels, respectively. Also, during peak travel season, these prices will usually be higher.
| City | Average Hotel Room Price | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marseille | $95 | 2 | $190 |
| Arles | $112 | 1 | $112 |
| Avignon | $114 | 2 | $228 |
| Lyon | $92 | 2 | $184 |
| Annecy | $149 | 1 | $149 |
| Geneva | $173 | 2 | $346 |
| Total Expected Hotel Cost | $1,209 | ||
Hostel Prices
If you're on the lookout for budget-friendly options during your journey, hostels are a terrific option catering to younger or solo travelers. The prices listed below detail the average expenditure for a dorm bed in a hostel at each destination. While privacy may take a backseat in a hostel dorm, the vibrant atmosphere often transforms these shared spaces into social hubs, creating wonderful chances to meet up with fellow travelers. It's important to note that many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher cost than dorms, with additional benefits like kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are calculated from available hostel data from HostelWorld.
| City | Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person) |
|---|---|
| Marseille | $29 |
| Arles | $31 |
| Lyon | $28 |
| Annecy | $27 |
| Geneva | $45 |
The Rhone Valley Itinerary
1. Marseille
2 Days
Marseille is a well known port city in southern France along the French Riviera. It has a fascinating old town and a long running history. There are many historic attractions and a lot to explore as a touristy.
Marseille brings plenty of visitors because it has beaches, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for backpackers because of everything available.
For foodies, Marseille is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
After a day of exploring, you'll want to head out in the evening for a lively nightlife experience. After all, this is one of the most popular nightlife spots in the world.
Marseille has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
What to See in Marseille
How to Spend 2 Days in Marseille
Day 1:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The Old Port is filled with shops and boutiques, and is the most scenic part of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and is filled with history and character.
The delicious food of Marseille is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. It's famous for its bouillabaisse, which is a hearty seafood soup that was once affordable but is now quite pricey.
Marseille is a very walkable city. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. The Old Port (Vieux Port) is particularly walkable and is one of the best areas to explore on foot.
Day 2:
Marseille offers a charming atmosphere that's hard to find anywhere else. Spend part of the day exploring the scenery. The Old Port area is one of the most scenic parts of the city. It dates back to the Middle Ages and it remains quite busy today.
This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Much of the city's nightlife is centered around being outdoors. Whether you're on the beach or hanging out at a rooftop bar, Marseille is a magical place.
Public transit in Marseille is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. The city has trams, a metro, and buses that you can use to explore.
More Activities
Marseille offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Marseille, see The Best Calanques National Park Tours from Marseille, The Best Cassis Tours in Marseille, The Best Affordable Wine Tours Around Marseille, and The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Marseille.
Marseille Costs
Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Marseille is $158 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Marseille here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $13 | $30 | $60 |
| Food2 | $19 | $45 | $105 |
| Entertainment1 | $17 | $41 | $81 |
| Alcohol2 | $12 | $29 | $65 |
Accommodation
Hotels
The average hotel room price in Marseille is $95 based on the average from 161 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Marseille here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Marseille, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $29. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Marseille here.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Marseille to Arles.
2. Arles
1 Day
Arles is located on the Rhône River in Provence. It is famous as an inspiration for paintings by Vincent Van Gogh and it is filled with Roman ruins and fascinating history. Today the town regularly hosts plays and concerts that visitors can enjoy.
Arles brings plenty of visitors because it has museums, nightlife, and beautiful locations.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Arles are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.
Arles has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
What to See in Arles
How to Spend 1 Day in Arles
Arles is home to renowned museums and iconic landmarks, so dive into the town's famous attractions. The city's historical sites rank among the most awe-inspiring globally. It's a small town but it's filled with Roman ruins and remarkable landmarks. Popular sights include L'Amphithéâtre Romain, Les Alyscamps, Cloître Saint-Trophime, and Théâtre Antique.
You'll absolutely want to spend some time enjoying the food scene in this town, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine for a meal or two. The cuisine is heavily influenced by the region's local agriculture. Popular dishes include agriade (beef stew), tellines soup, and fougasse (a local bread).
Arles is a very walkable city. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. It's a historic walled city that is very walkable.
More Activities
Arles offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Arles, see The Best Walking and History Tours in Arles, The Arles Amphitheatre, The Cryptoportiques, and The Saint-Trophime Cloister.
Arles Costs
Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Arles is $153 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Arles here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $11 | $25 | $47 |
| Food2 | $25 | $56 | $101 |
| Entertainment1 | $15 | $33 | $62 |
| Alcohol2 | $12 | $26 | $50 |
Accommodation
Hotels
The average hotel room price in Arles is $112 based on the average from 74 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Arles here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Arles, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $31. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Arles here.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Arles to Avignon.
3. Avignon
2 Days
Avignon is a town in the region of Provence that dates back to the 1300s. It sits along the Rhône River and is filled with history and beautiful landmarks.
Avignon brings plenty of visitors because it has small town charm, museums, and delicious food. It's also a great destination for backpackers because of everything available.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Avignon are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.
For foodies, Avignon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
Avignon has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
What to See in Avignon
How to Spend 2 Days in Avignon
Day 1:
Avignon is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. The town is filled with historical landmarks such as Palais des Papes, Pont Saint Bénézet, Musée du Petit Palais, and Basilique Métropolitaine Notre-Dame des Doms.
The delicious food of Avignon is one of the main highlights of a trip to the region. Dining out is one of the highlights of a trip. Make sure you take the time to taste as much of it as possible during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this town's best restaurants. And consider a food tour or cooking class. You can easily fit one into your schedule since many are just a few hours or half a day. For such a small town you'll find many great eateries where you can sample French cuisine. You'll find bakeries, patisseries, restaurants, chocolatiers, and cafes to try. Cooking classes are also a popular activity in town.
Avignon is a very walkable city. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. There's almost no traffic in the city center so it's easy to explore on foot.
Day 2:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. The walled medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it's filled with history.
Public transit in Avignon is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the town quite easily. There are city buses as well as tourist shuttles around town.
More Activities
Avignon offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Avignon, see The Best Luberon Villages Tours from Avignon, The Best Wine Tours in Avignon, The Best Ancient Roman Tours Around Avignon, and The Best Chateauneuf du Pape Tours from Avignon.
Avignon Costs
Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Avignon is $763 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Avignon here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $9 | $23 | $58 |
| Food2 | $16 | $36 | $74 |
| Entertainment1 | $7 | $17 | $37 |
| Alcohol2 | $7 | $18 | $40 |
Accommodation
Hotels
The average hotel room price in Avignon is $114 based on the average from 90 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Avignon here.
Suggested Hotels
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Avignon to Lyon.
4. Lyon
2 Days
Lyon is a beautiful city with a long history. It has one of Europe's best old towns, which climbs the hills above the River Saône and is filled with character. There are many traditional restaurants where you can try the local cuisine. The city is also known for its Marionette puppets and there is a museum as well as places to watch a production.
Lyon brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for families and backpackers because of everything available.
The museums, monuments, and landmarks in Lyon are among the most recognizable in the world. You'll want to make sure to have at least enough time to see the highlights, but even more time to explore all of it.
For foodies, Lyon is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
Lyon has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
What to See in Lyon
How to Spend 2 Days in Lyon
Day 1:
Lyon is famous for it's world-class attractions, museums, and landmarks. You'll want to spend at least a day exploring one or more that you're interested in the most. There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
The culinary scene in Lyon is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this city's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. Known as "the Gastronomic Capital of the World" this city stands above the rest when it comes to Michelin star restaurants (there are 17!), fresh ingredients, and unique local flavors. Favorite local dishes include pâté en croûte, rosette de Lyon, and saucisson brioché.
Lyon is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. The old town is particularly walkable, but the hills can make things a bit challenging. There are also a number of pedestrian streets around town.
Day 2:
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. This impressive old town climbs from the river into Fourvière Hill. It's a Renaissance era district with beautiful buildings and plenty of character. You can spend days wandering the quaint streets and popping in the world class restaurants.
Lyon is known to be such a beautiful destination, so just exploring and taking it all in should be one of the top things to do on your list. The city climbs beautifully into the hills and offers spectacular views and charming character.
The public transit in Lyon is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The city has a metro, trams, and buses, that make it easy to get around.
More Activities
Lyon offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Lyon, see The Best Wine Tours and Tastings around Lyon, The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Lyon, The Best Cheap Walking Tours Around Lyon, and The Best Bike Tours in Lyon.
Lyon Costs
Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Lyon is $136 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Lyon here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $8 | $18 | $42 |
| Food2 | $18 | $45 | $101 |
| Entertainment1 | $10 | $22 | $42 |
| Alcohol2 | $11 | $26 | $53 |
Accommodation
Hotels
The average hotel room price in Lyon is $92 based on the average from 203 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Lyon here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Lyon, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $28. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Lyon here.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Lyon to Annecy.
5. Annecy
1 Day
Annecy is a popular alpine town in France that sits along the edge of Lake Annecy. It has one of the most famous and beautiful old towns in the area and it is a popular destination for French and international vacationers during the warmer months. Just outside of town there are many hikes and smaller towns to explore. In Annecy, you can hire a boat and get out on the water.
Annecy brings plenty of visitors because it has small town charm, museums, hiking, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great destination for couples, families, and backpackers because of everything available.
For foodies, Annecy is an obvious choice, as it is one of the food capitals of the world.
Annecy has one of the best historic old towns in the country, so you should absolutely spend some time exploring the streets and shops.
What to See in Annecy
Great for couples
How to Spend 1 Day in Annecy
The charming atmosphere and history of the old town area is worth exploring, so spend the day learning about the history and culture of the area. This is among the most beautiful old towns in Europe. It sits along the banks of Lake Annecy and the water integrates beautifully into the setting.
The culinary scene in Annecy is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this alpine town's best restaurants. And consider a food tour, too. Many are either a half day or just a few hours, so you can fit one into your schedule easily. Fresh caught fish and local French specialties make this town a wonderful culinary destination. The old town is filled with restaurants, cafes, and markets where you can enjoy local ingredients. There are many local dishes to try with some of the most popular being Tartiflette, Raclette, and Gratin de crozets. Fondue is also popular. You'll find cheese is a common component in many dishes.
Annecy is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the alpine town, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. The old town is filled with pedestrian streets that are perfect to explore on foot.
More Activities
Annecy offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
If you're looking for even more ideas of things to do in Annecy, see The Best Cheap Walking Tours in Annecy, The Best Local Food Tours in Annecy, The Best Bike Tours Around Annecy, and The Best Affordable Wine Tours in Annecy.
Annecy Costs
Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Annecy is $193 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Annecy here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $18 | $40 | $77 |
| Food2 | $27 | $63 | $121 |
| Entertainment1 | $19 | $44 | $84 |
| Alcohol2 | $16 | $37 | $71 |
Accommodation
Hotels
The average hotel room price in Annecy is $149 based on the average from 50 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Annecy here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Annecy, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $27. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Annecy here.
Transportation
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Annecy to Geneva.
6. Geneva
2 Days
Geneva is an international city that sits on the tip of Lake Geneva. The nearby Alps offer a beautiful backdrop to the modern city. Geneva is also home to the headquarters of the United Nations, and you'll find many international residents as well as diverse restaurants and neighborhoods.
Geneva brings plenty of visitors because it has big city activities, museums, nightlife, and beautiful locations.
Shopping here is always fun and a very popular activity, so set aside some time to browse the local shops.
How to Spend 2 Days in Geneva
Day 1:
Shopping in Geneva is very popular, and it's easy to see why. Spend time exploring the many shops and boutiques to find the perfect gift, souvenir, or outfit. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.
The restaurant and food scene here is top notch, so make sure you spend time at one of the local restaurants where you can taste the delicious cuisine. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.
Geneva is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.
Day 2:
A number of fantastic museums and famous landmarks are found in Geneva, so spend at least one full day exploring those that look the most appealing to you. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.
The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.
The public transit in Geneva is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.
More Activities
Geneva offers a large selection of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do. Take a look at some of the better options, compare prices, and make your reservations ahead of time to ensure a fantastic adventure.
Geneva Costs
Calculated from the travel expenses of previous visitors, the average daily travel cost in Geneva is $210 per person. Your individual expenses can stay close to this amount if you stay in a mid-range hotel and eat at normal restaurants. Below is a typical price breakdown of what you might expect to spend each day, per person, if you travel on a lower budget, mid-range budget, or luxury budget on your trip. For more details, see the travel costs for Geneva here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $4 | $9 | $18 |
| Food2 | $20 | $52 | $138 |
| Entertainment1 | $13 | $30 | $57 |
| Alcohol2 | $10 | $22 | $42 |
Accommodation
Hotels
The average hotel room price in Geneva is $173 based on the average from 89 hotels provided by Kayak. For more details, you can see our analysis of hotel costs in Geneva here.
Suggested Hotels
Hostels
If you're traveling on a backpacker's budget, hostels are a great way to save some money and meet other travelers, too. In Geneva, the average price for a bed in a dorm at a hostel is $45. For more information on hostels, you can see our overview of hostel costs in Geneva here.
Final Transportation
As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Marseille.
If you are driving yourself on this journey, see driving directions from Geneva to Marseille.
Next Steps
So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your 10-day trip in the Rhone Valley, it's time to get started. Make your bookings ahead of time not just to find the cheapest prices, but also before the best hotels and tours fill up. We also have plenty of other resources to help you plan you trip, or another trip, too. Happy travels!
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