Central France Wine Regions: Two-Week Itinerary
Wine, Food, and Chateaux
Eager to plan a memorable trip around Central France but feeling a bit uncertain on where to begin, what to see, the budget, or the length? Consider this itinerary your personal travel advisor with all of your answers, laying out all the essential information to plan for an extraordinary 14-day adventure. This journey will let you experience all of the delicious food, couples, museums, and big city activities that you've been eager to see.
The reasons to visit Central France are plentiful. You'll find local wineries, delicious food, gorgeous countryside, and historic towns. Below we'll start with some of the highlights of the area before working through the specifics of the route, budget, things to do, where to stay, and more.
This itinerary will take you through the following destinations:
- Dijon (2 days)
- Beaune (1 day)
- Auxerre (1 day)
- Centre and Loire Valley (3 days)
- Chartres (1 day)
- Le Mans (2 days)
Le Mans, France
Itinerary Highlights
- Great for couples
- Family-friendly
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Delicious Food
- Small Town Charm
- Historic Sites
- Beautiful Locations
Delicious food is one of the main reasons why many people travel, and a trip to Central France is no exception. You'll find so many amazing restaurants and local dishes worth tasting on this trip, so throw that diet plan away when you come. In particular, make sure you visit the restaurants in Beaune and Dijon.
It's essential not to bypass the picturesque and charming small towns in the region. They grant you a superb opportunity to embrace and enjoy the local culture.
You'll also be able to uncover the rich and vibrant history of Central France. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic architecture, museums, and deep historical culture that permeates the area.
The stunning scenery of Central France is one of the main reasons visitors come to this region. Bring your camera, as it's even better in person.
Chartres, France
When is the best time to visit?
Autumn in Central France offers a cooler climate, breathtaking natural landscapes, and the added perk of dwindling tourist crowds as the season unfolds. Consider this time of year for a visit if you are able to work it into your schedule.
As summer unfolds in Central France, it becomes a magnet for travelers seeking a memorable experience. Brace yourself for bustling crowds, but take comfort in the fact that this is when everything is open and at its peak accessibility.
Who is this itinerary for?
Central France has earned a reputation as a go-to spot for couples. If you're traveling with your better half, brace yourselves for an exceptional experience. Down below, you'll find plenty of insight around romantic activities for your trip. For romantic charm, Beaune and Dijon especially should not be missed.
Central France makes for a terrific family-friendly trip. You'll find a good number of kid-friendly activities on this journey. In the sections below, we'll cover this in more detail so that the entire family has an amazing trip.
Plenty of budget-friendly and backpacker-friendly travel options are available in the area, too. From affordable hostels and budget-friendly hotels, to free activities, affordable food options, and a great social vibe, you can have a great trip if you're on a shoestring budget.
Chateaux of the Loire Valley, France
Transportation
Getting around between these destinations in Central France isn't too difficult. Most of these places are around 3 hours apart.
We've planned this as a one-way journey from Dijon to Le Mans because it covers a lot of distance and the transportation options are good in both places. However, you could always loop back to the beginning if it's easier. Also, you can do this route in the opposite direction if you find better tickets into Le Mans instead of Dijon. To get to Dijon, you can see flight prices and schedules here.
A fun way to explore the area is in a car. If you don't have your own, no worries, just grab a rental car. Having your own wheels is key for ultimate freedom and flexibility in Central France. You call the shots on your schedule and can make impromptu stops whenever the mood hits.
The train network in Central France offers a hassle-free and economical way to explore the region. Major cities are well-connected with swift train services, though reaching smaller towns might involve additional time and potential transfers to local buses. Opting for main routes ensures a straightforward journey, allowing travelers to relax and take in the beautiful views from their seats. It's advisable to plan ahead by checking ticket prices and schedules for a smooth travel experience.
Is 14 days enough time in Central France?
Yes, 14 days is generally enough time to see the major destinations of Central France. We have planned out this itinerary in such a way so that you can take in these destinations in 14 days while having a relaxing and enjoyable trip. You could always spend more time in the area if you want to visit more of the local sights, or spend even more time in each destination. Plenty of day trip options are available, after all. On the other hand, if you have less time, you can modify this suggested itinerary to make it shorter. Cutting out a few places would save you time, although we don't recommended it as you really need around 14 days to see everything.
Dijon, France
How much does a 14-day trip to Central France cost?
Let's break down the estimated budget for this specific 14-day adventure in Central France, assuming you stick to the plan outlined below. Drawing on actual spending data from travelers and cost data from major travel companies, the daily average costs below are per person. They exclude transportation, as that can vary depending on your choices. Consider this breakdown as a financial roadmap, with mid-level hotels, regular dining, and key attractions aligning with these estimates. Anyone seeking cheaper options can opt for hostels, budget hotels, and more affordable food options. On the flip side, embracing luxury hotels, upscale dining, and private tours will make you go well beyond this budget.
| City | Daily Average | Days | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dijon | $165 | 2 | $331 |
| Beaune | $181 | 1 | $181 |
| Auxerre | $122 | 1 | $122 |
| Centre and Loire Valley | $135 | 3 | $406 |
| Chartres | $127 | 1 | $127 |
| Le Mans | $90 | 2 | $180 |
| Total per Person | $1,347 | ||
| for 2 People | $2,694 | ||
The estimated cost for this 14-day adventure in Central France is approximately $1,347 per person, according to our calculations. It's worth noting that this does not cover transportation between destinations. That part is entirely dependent on your chosen mode of travel.
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 Central France based on calculated averages.
Hotel Prices
The average price for a hotel room in each destination is outlined below. Sourced from Kayak's hotel data, it's crucial to recognize that these figures exclude taxes and fees. Think of these averages as representative of mid-range hotel experiences, yet, keep in mind, that it's possible to spend more or less, particularly if you opt for budget-friendly lodgings or indulge in high-end luxury hotels. These prices will usually be higher during peak travel season, too.
| City | Average Hotel Room Price |
|---|---|
| Dijon | $82 |
| Beaune | $119 |
| Auxerre | $87 |
| Centre and Loire Valley | no data |
| Chartres | $87 |
| Le Mans | $77 |
Central France Itinerary
1. Dijon
2 Days
Dijon is the capital of Burgundy. The city has long been a destination for foodies and local favorites include escargot, wines, and, of course, mustard. While you're in the area you can enjoy tours of the nearby vineyards or exploring the stunning architecture.
Dijon offers big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for families and backpackers due to all of the activities.
Eat your way through Dijon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from.
What to See in Dijon
How to Spend 2 Days in Dijon
Day 1:
Don't miss the Ducal Palace during your trip to Dijon, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
The delicious food of Dijon 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 is one of the top foodie destinations in France, and you'll find amazing local markets, award winning restaurants, and world class cuisine. Make sure you check out Les Halles Market to try local flavors. In addition to its famous mustard, the city is also popular for gingerbread, truffles, escargot, and, of course, wine.
Public transit in Dijon is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. Tram and buses offer access to many parts of the city.
Day 2:
Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Dijon a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. This historic city is filled with sights worth checking. Palais des Ducs and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, Cathédrale Saint-Bénigne, and Eglise Notre-Dame are among the favorites.
This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. While it's not a active as the larger European cities, there's still an fun nightlife scene that is driven mostly by the large student population.
More Activities
You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Dijon. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.
For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Wine Tours in Dijon and Burgundy, The Dijon Central Market Hall, The Church of Notre-Dame of Dijon, and Arquebuse Botanical Garden.
Dijon Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Dijon average around $165 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Dijon here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $17 | $39 | $74 |
| Food2 | $22 | $52 | $118 |
| Entertainment1 | $12 | $27 | $51 |
| Alcohol2 | $13 | $32 | $71 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Dijon, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $82, calculated from the data of 72 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Dijon here.
Suggested Hotels
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Dijon to Beaune.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Dijon to Beaune, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
2. Beaune
1 Day
Beaune is a beautiful walled town in the middle of Burgundy. It's a popular wine making destination where you can sip French wines and explore vineyards. There are cobblestone streets in town and wandering walks through the countryside outside of town. The town also offers many culinary experiences such as cooking classes and winetasting.
Beaune offers museums, nightlife, and delicious food. It's also a great place for couples and families due to all of the activities.
Eat your way through Beaune, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from.
Beaune 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 Beaune
How to Spend 1 Day in Beaune
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 town is walled and compact. It is centered around the medieval hospital complex and it is filled with cobblestone streets and shops.
The culinary scene in Beaune is world famous, and draws visitors from around the globe. Make sure you spend time enjoying breakfast, lunch, and dinner at some of this 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. The restaurant scene is made up of small, narrow, local bistros that serve local dishes with regional ingredients. Many of the menus are focused on wine with the dishes designed specifically to compliment the wines. This is a tourist town, and you'll find many visitors come specifically to enjoy the French cuisine.
Beaune is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's a walkable town that's perfect for taking a stroll.
More Activities
You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Beaune. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.
For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Burgundy Wine Tours Around Beaune, The Hospices de Beaune, Basilique Notre-Dame de Beaune, and Marché aux Vins.
Beaune Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Beaune average around $181 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Beaune here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $20 | $45 | $86 |
| Food2 | $26 | $59 | $110 |
| Entertainment1 | $15 | $36 | $70 |
| Alcohol2 | $23 | $52 | $99 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Beaune, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $119, calculated from the data of 59 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Beaune here.
Suggested Hotels
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Beaune to Auxerre.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Beaune to Auxerre, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
3. Auxerre
1 Day
Auxerre is an often overlooked town in Burgundy that is both a commercial and industrial hub for the area. You'll find great wine as well as several beautiful historical buildings.
Auxerre offers museums. It's also a great place for families due to all of the activities.
What to See in Auxerre
How to Spend 1 Day in Auxerre
Perhaps the most famous place in Auxerre is the Auxerre Cathedral, so don't miss it. It might not be at the top of your list, but it's worth experiencing during your trip.
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. The town is a the heart of the wine industry, so you'll find many great restaurants where you can enjoy local food and wine.
Public transit in Auxerre is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the town quite easily. There are buses around town.
More Activities
You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Auxerre. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.
For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Wine Tours in Auxerre, The Abbaye Saint-Germain d'Auxerre, The Clock Tower of Auxerre, and Auxerre Cathedral.
Auxerre Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Auxerre average around $122 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Auxerre here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $22 | $50 | $95 |
| Food2 | $16 | $37 | $71 |
| Entertainment1 | $8 | $19 | $36 |
| Alcohol2 | $3 | $7 | $13 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Auxerre, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $87, calculated from the data of 10 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Auxerre here.
Suggested Hotels
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Auxerre to Centre and Loire Valley.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Auxerre to Centre and Loire Valley, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
4. Centre and Loire Valley
3 Days
The Loire Valley, part of the larger Centre region of France, is located in the middle stretch of the Loire River. It is referred to as the Cradle of the French and the Garden of France because of the many vineyards, fruit orchards, and vegetable fields, which line the banks of the river. The Loire Valley has been inhabited since the Middle Paleolithic period, so it has many notable historic towns, architecture, and wines. The central part of the Loire Valley is listed on the UNESCO World Heritage Sights. This area is a great location if you are looking for French splendor, style, and cuisine. The Loire Valley was once of great strategic importance between the north and south of France, so there are many amazing castles and towers in the area. The Valley is best known for its outstanding wines and its lively, sophisticated cities. The area in general has a pleasant or laid back feel, and has been called a bit of a story-book wonderland. It is definitely a must see if you're planning a trip to France.
What to See in Centre and Loire Valley
More Activities
You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Centre and Loire Valley. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.
For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Loire Valley Cheateaux Tours, Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, and Château de Amboise.
Centre and Loire Valley Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Centre and Loire Valley average around $135 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Centre and Loire Valley here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $10 | $24 | $55 |
| Food2 | $18 | $43 | $89 |
| Entertainment1 | $8 | $20 | $47 |
| Alcohol2 | $5 | $13 | $32 |
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Centre and Loire Valley to Chartres.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Centre and Loire Valley to Chartres, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
5. Chartres
1 Day
Most people visit Chartres specifically to see its grand Gothic cathedral, Cathédrale Notre-Dame. The cathedral was completed in 1220 and is famous for its stained glass windows. The town is an easy day trip from Paris, and you can explore the cathedral and town in a few hours.
Chartres offers museums. It's also a great place for backpackers due to all of the activities.
What to See in Chartres
How to Spend 1 Day in Chartres
Don't miss the Chartres Cathedral during your trip to Chartres, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
You can't miss out on tasting the fantastic cuisine at one of the best restaurants in town, so make sure you find somewhere special for lunch or dinner. There are a number of restaurants around town so it's easy to grab lunch during a day trip.
Chartres is a walkable city and easy to explore on foot. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble seeing the local sights. It's easy to see the sights around town on foot.
For more activities and things to do, check out The International Stained-Glass Centre, Maison Picassiette, Chartres Cathedral, and The Musée des Beaux-Arts.
Chartres Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Chartres average around $127 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Chartres here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $12 | $28 | $54 |
| Food2 | $18 | $42 | $86 |
| Entertainment1 | $10 | $24 | $50 |
| Alcohol2 | $5 | $13 | $33 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Chartres, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $87, calculated from the data of 22 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Chartres here.
Suggested Hotels
Transportation
If you have a car for this trip, here are driving directions from Chartres to Le Mans.
Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Chartres to Le Mans, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.
6. Le Mans
2 Days
Le Mans is located in northwestern France, and it's the host of the 24 hour car race, The Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans. You can visit the race track and experience simulator rides and go-karting. The town itself also has a cathedral and a long running history with museums and city walls.
Le Mans offers museums and nightlife. It's also a great place for families and backpackers due to all of the activities.
What to See in Le Mans
How to Spend 2 Days in Le Mans
Day 1:
Don't miss the Circuit des 24 Heures du Mans during your trip to Le Mans, as it's one of this destination's most well-known attractions. You should make sure to set aside enough time to see it.
This town is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. You'll find bars and clubs in the city center around Saint-Nicolas Quarter, rue des Ponts-neufs, Place de la Sirène and around the Republic Square.
Public transit in Le Mans is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the town quite easily. There is a tram service around town that provides access to many places including the race track via the T1 line (Antarès-Stade Marie Marvingt and exit at the East Entrance).
Day 2:
This town offers some good museums and historic landmarks, so it's worth your time to spend a day exploring a few of them. Pick the ones that appeal to you the most and get started. It's most famous as the location of the 24 hour car race, the 24 Hours of Le Mans and on some days it's possible to visit the race track which has a museum with simulators and other activities. Around town you'll find museums and activities affiliated with the racing culture, and there's also a cathedral as well as several nice museums relating to the automotive industry among other things.
For more activities and things to do, check out Circuit de la Sarthe, Musée de l'Automobile de la Sarthe, Old Town of Le Mans, and Abbaye Royale of L'Epau.
Le Mans Costs
Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Le Mans average around $90 per person. Sticking to this ballpark figure is achievable if you opt for a mid-range hotel and dine at regular restaurants. Delve into the breakdown below for a glimpse into what you might anticipate spending each day, per person, with options ranging from a budget-friendly approach to a mid-range or even luxury budget. For a more comprehensive overview, check out our detailed travel costs for Le Mans here.
| Category | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Local Transportation1 | $14 | $33 | $62 |
| Food2 | $13 | $29 | $56 |
| Entertainment1 | $7 | $16 | $31 |
| Alcohol2 | $6 | $13 | $25 |
Accommodation
Hotels
When it comes to accommodations in Le Mans, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $77, calculated from the data of 36 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Le Mans here.
Suggested Hotels
Final Transportation
As the last destination in this itinerary, you'll want to find the best price home from here. Check flight prices here.
Next Steps
So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your 14-day trip in Central France, 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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