Highlights of France Two-Week Itinerary

Wine, History, and Famous Sights

Thinking about taking an amazing trip around France, but feeling a bit clueless on where to start, where to explore, or how much the whole thing will cost? Dive into this itinerary because it's your roadmap to planning a fantastic 14-day adventure across the region. This route will take you to the big city activities, museums, nightlife, and delicious food along the way, setting you up for an epic journey.

The reasons to visit France are plentiful. You'll find world-famous sights, local wines, delicious food, and colorful cities. 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:

  1. Paris (3 days)
  2. Versailles (1 day)
  3. Lyon (2 days)
  4. Avignon (3 days)
  5. Carcassonne (2 days)
  6. Bordeaux (3 days)


Carcassone, France

Itinerary Highlights
  • Great for couples
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big City Activities
  • Delicious Food
  • Historic Sites
  • Small Town Charm
  • Museums
  • Beautiful Locations

This region is also very popular for its world-class cities adorned with sights, attractions, vibrant nightlife, enticing restaurants, shopping, and more. On a trip through the area, you'll be able to spend time exploring these dynamic cities and everything they have to offer. With plenty of big city activities, Lyon and Paris shouldn't be missed.

Delicious food is one of the main reasons why many people travel, and a trip to 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 Avignon, Paris, and Lyon.

You'll also be able to uncover the rich and vibrant history of France. Don't miss the chance to explore the historic architecture, museums, and deep historical culture that permeates the area.

The beautiful and charming small towns of the region are a must-see. They provide an excellent chance to dive into the local culture, history, food, and more. You'll find plenty of small town charm in Avignon.

You'll find plenty of great museums along the way, so make sure you take some time to explore. The museums of Versailles, Paris, and Lyon are particularly good.

The stunning scenery of France is one of the main reasons visitors come to this region. Bring your camera, as it's even better in person. You don't want to miss Lyon, Paris, and Versailles for the beautiful scenery.


Versailles, France

When is the best time to visit?

Summer is a great time to visit France. It's a peak travel season here that draws plenty of visitors for a good reason. Although you might encounter bustling crowds, the upside is that everything will be wide open and within easy reach.

Who is this itinerary for?

Let's get into the romantic side of France. This region has a well-deserved reputation as the perfect spot for couples. If you're exploring with your special someone, get ready for a truly delightful experience. For romantic charm, Lyon, Paris, and Versailles especially should not be missed.

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. For example, families love all of the activities in Paris and Lyon.

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. For example, the range of hostels and low-cost activities in Carcassonne, Lyon, and Paris tend to favor budget travelers.


Sunrise over the vinyards, Bordeaux, France

Transportation

Getting around between these destinations in France isn't too difficult. Most of these places are around 4 hours apart.

We selected Paris 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 Paris, you can see flight prices and schedules here.

The train network in 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 France?

Yes, 14 days is generally enough time to see the major destinations of 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.


Paris, France

How much does a 14-day trip to France cost?

Let's break down the estimated budget for this specific 14-day adventure in 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
Paris $249 3 $747
Versailles $253 1 $253
Lyon $136 2 $272
Avignon $763 3 $2,288
Carcassonne $115 2 $231
Bordeaux $127 3 $380
Total per Person $4,170
for 2 People $8,340

The estimated cost for this 14-day adventure in France is approximately $4,170 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 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
Paris $126
Versailles no data
Lyon $92
Avignon $114
Carcassonne $110
Bordeaux $112
Hostel Prices

If you're all about smart spending on your adventure, hostels are an enticing option, especially for younger or solo travelers. The prices outlined below show the average expenses for a dorm bed in a hostel at each destination. Despite sacrificing a bit of privacy in a hostel dorm, the lively atmosphere often cultivates a social setting, creating fantastic opportunities to build new connections. It's worth noting that many hostels also offer private rooms at a slightly higher cost than dorms, along with additional perks like kitchens, social activities, and prime locations. These average prices are computed from available hostel data shared by HostelWorld.


 City Average Hostel Dorm Price (per person)
Paris $31
Versailles $34
Lyon $28
Carcassonne $33
Bordeaux $28

France Itinerary

1. Paris

3 Days

Paris is not only the capital city of France, but it is one of Europe's most iconic cities. For many visitors, its a dream destination that is filled with wide boulevards, charming cafes, and world class landmarks. The food is widely recognized as some of the best in the world. The city sits along the River Seine, and a stroll down the river at night is a quintessential Parisian experience.

Paris offers big city activities, museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for couples, families, and backpackers due to all of the activities.

Travelers visit Paris from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. You'll probably have trouble prioritizing what to see with so many options, so it's best to make a plan.

The theater and performance venues in Paris draw crowds from around the world.

Eat your way through Paris, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from.

This is one of the most popular destinations in the world for nightlife. It's considered by many to be a fun party-oriented city, and is a destination that you simply have to visit at least once to experience.

The music scene here is popular and famous around the world. Make sure to take some time to see a show.

Since Paris is one of the premier shopping cities in the world, make sure you spend some time perusing the local shops.

What to See in Paris
The Eiffel Tower
Great for couples
€29
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Great for couples
Free
The Arc de Triomphe
Around 1 hour
€13
The Louvre
Around 6 hours
€17
Disneyland Paris
Great for families
€75
The Pantheon
Around 2 hours
€11.50

How to Spend 3 Days in Paris

Day 1:

When visiting Paris, you can't miss the Eiffel Tower as it's one of the most famous places in the world. Make sure you give yourself enough time to enjoy it.

Don't miss an evening at the theater while in town. Whether it's a musical, opera, ballet, or a famous Broadway-style production, Paris is known for its wide range of shows. There are world class theaters as well as smaller local venues where you can enjoy a show.

Paris is a very walkable city. With only a day in the city, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. Some streets can feel a bit overwhelming, but there are many parts of the city that are easily explored on foot.

Day 2:

Paris is home to renowned museums and iconic landmarks, so dive into the city's famous attractions. The city's historical sites rank among the most awe-inspiring globally. One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

The delicious food of Paris 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. There are countless local restaurants, markets, and patisseries to explore. Make sure you try the steak tartare, pate, and macarons.

Public transit in Paris is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the city quite easily. The city's metro system is very comprehensive. There's also a bus system that you can use to get around.

Day 3:

Given that Paris is a large and popular city, give yourself a full day to uncover the diverse neighborhoods, captivating attractions, and engaging activities scattered throughout the area. Be sure to include visits to some of the city's premier landmarks and quintessential neighborhoods, too. It is one of the most popular tourist city's in the entire world. It's an iconic destination that is known for its beauty and beautiful architecture.

This city is very popular for nightlife. After the sun goes down, head out to one of the many popular venues around town. Head to Pigalle or the Latin Quarter for some of the city's best nightlife. There are all-night parties, cabarets, and exclusive night clubs that you can experience.

More Activities

You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Paris. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 91 ratings
$71
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 64 ratings
$49
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 64 ratings
$64

For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Walking Tours in Paris, The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Paris, The Best Versailles Day Trips and Tours in Paris, and The Best Cheap Louvre Tours in Paris.


Paris Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$249

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Paris average around $249 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 Paris here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $9 $23 $64
Food2 $17 $44 $116
Entertainment1 $29 $83 $263
Alcohol2 $10 $26 $69
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$126

When it comes to accommodations in Paris, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $126, calculated from the data of 1665 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Paris here.


Suggested Hotels
5 Rue Cambon, Paris
Overall Rating 9.3
87 rue des Archives, Paris
Overall Rating 9.2

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$31

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Paris offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $31. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Paris.


Transportation

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Paris to Versailles, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.



2. Versailles

Photo of Versailles

1 Day

The Palace of Versailles is a former royal residence that has been turned into a public museum showcasing the decadent lives of the historic French royalty. It's also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and it's easily accessible as a day trip from Paris. It has become an iconic symbol of France's grandeur and opulence, renowned for its breathtaking architecture, sumptuous interiors, and sprawling gardens. This magnificent palace was originally built by King Louis XIII in the 17th century but was transformed into a lavish royal residence by his successor, King Louis XIV. With its magnificent Hall of Mirrors, ornate apartments, and impressive galleries showcasing artistic masterpieces, Versailles epitomizes the pinnacle of French Baroque architecture and interior design. The palace's extensive gardens, meticulously landscaped in the French formal style, feature fountains, sculptures, and meticulously manicured lawns, providing a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls and elegant photos. Today, the Palace of Versailles is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a symbol of France's rich history and cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe who come to marvel at its splendor and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the French monarchy.

How to Spend 1 Day in Versailles

You'll want to maximize your time in Versailles by spending as much time as you can at the Palace of Versailles, including its famous Hall of Mirrors (Galeries des Glaces) and expansive gardens, so plan your schedule accordingly. It's known for its long running history and its grand architecture, and you don't want to miss it.

There are SNCF trains that travel from Gare Montparnasse to Versailles Chantiers train station and additional trains that travel between Gare Saint Lazare and Versailles Rive Droite.

It's approximately a 20 minute walk from the Versailles Chantiers train station to the entrance to the palace. Versailles Rive Droite is slightly closer.

There are a couple of restaurants and cafes on the grounds.


Versailles Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$253

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Versailles average around $253 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 Versailles here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $25 $57 $106
Food2 $32 $72 $135
Entertainment1 $21 $49 $96
Alcohol2 $9 $20 $36
Accommodation

Suggested Hotels
2 Bis Avenue De Paris, Versailles
Overall Rating 8.7
14 rue d'Anjou, Versailles
Overall Rating 8.7

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$34

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Versailles offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $34. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Versailles.


Transportation

If you're planning to take the train from Paris to Lyon, you're in luck. The high-speed TGV trains zoom down to Lyon in just two hours.

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Versailles to Lyon, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.



3. Lyon

Photo of 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 offers museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for families and backpackers due to all of the activities.

Travelers visit Lyon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. You'll probably have trouble prioritizing what to see with so many options, so it's best to make a plan.

Eat your way through Lyon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from.

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
The Musée des Arts de la Marionnette
€8
The Confluences Museum
Around 4 hours
€12
Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
Great for budget travelers
Free
The Cinema and Miniature Museum
€17
The Lyon Aquarium
Great for families
€18
The Lyon Cathedral
Around 1 hour
Free

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

You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Lyon. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 31 ratings
$41
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 22 ratings
$41
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 7 ratings
$142

For more activities and things to do, check out 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
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$136

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Lyon average around $136 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 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
Average Hotel Price
$92

When it comes to accommodations in Lyon, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $92, calculated from the data of 203 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Lyon here.


Suggested Hotels
4 Rue Jussieu, Lyon
Overall Rating 8.7
22, Rue Du Boeuf, Lyon
Overall Rating 8.6

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$28

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Lyon offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $28. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Lyon.


Transportation

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Lyon to Avignon, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.



4. Avignon

Photo of Avignon

3 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 offers small town charm, museums, and delicious food.

Travelers visit Avignon from around the world to see its many world-famous attractions. You'll probably have trouble prioritizing what to see with so many options, so it's best to make a plan.

Eat your way through Avignon, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from.

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
Le Pont du Gard
Around 5 hours
Free
Les Halles Food Market
Great for budget travelers
Free
The Palais des Papes
Around 5 hours
€14.50
Pont Saint-Bénézet
Around 1 hour
€5
Musée Angladon
Around 1 hour
Free
Musée du Petit Palais
Around 3 hours
Free

How to Spend 3 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.

Day 3:

The small-town atmosphere of Avignon is one of the main reasons that visitors come here. Spend at least part of your day exploring the town to see the many sights and attractions. Located along the Rhône River, this town is filled with history, charm, and beauty.

More Activities

You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Avignon. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 28 ratings
$125
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 13 ratings
$65
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 10 ratings
$93

For more activities and things to do, check out 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
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$763

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Avignon average around $763 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 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
Average Hotel Price
$114

When it comes to accommodations in Avignon, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $114, calculated from the data of 90 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Avignon here.


Suggested Hotels
1715 Chemin Du Lavarin, Avignon
Overall Rating 8.5
486 chemin de Rhodes, Avignon
Overall Rating 9.5

Transportation

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Avignon to Carcassonne, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.



5. Carcassonne

Photo of Carcassonne

2 Days

Carcassonne is a medieval town that sits beautifully on the top of a hill in Southern France. The town is filled with walled fortifications and a well-preserved castle. It has a fairytale quality that is enhanced by the fact that cars are not allowed in the walled city. Many people visit Carcassonne as a day trip.

Carcassonne offers small town charm, museums, and beautiful locations. It's also a great place for backpackers due to all of the activities.

What to See in Carcassonne
The Carcassonne Ramparts
Great for families
€11
The Museum of the Inquisition
€11
The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire
Free
Château Comtal
Around 2 hours
€9.50

How to Spend 2 Days in Carcassonne

Day 1:

Don't miss La Cité de Carcassonne during your trip to Carcassonne, 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'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. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

Carcassonne is a very walkable city. With only a day in the town, you'll have no trouble exploring the local sights. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

Day 2:

Plenty of amazing museums and famous landmarks make Carcassonne a special place to visit. Spend at least one full day visiting the sights that are appealing to you. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.

Carcassonne 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 town is filled with history and well preserved medieval sights.

Public transit in Carcassonne is easy and efficient. In just a few days, you should be able to get around the town quite easily. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

More Activities

You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Carcassonne. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 5 ratings
$109
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 2 ratings
$28
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 1 ratings
$20

For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Walking Tours in Carcassonne, The Best Wine Tours in Carcassonne, The Carcassonne Ramparts, and The Museum of the Inquisition.


Carcassonne Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$115

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Carcassonne average around $115 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 Carcassonne here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $3 $8 $15
Food2 $18 $42 $80
Entertainment1 $7 $15 $30
Alcohol2 $6 $14 $27
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$110

When it comes to accommodations in Carcassonne, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $110, calculated from the data of 91 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Carcassonne here.


Suggested Hotels
12 Chemin De Maragon, Carcassonne
Overall Rating 9.4
80, chemin des Anglais, Carcassonne
Overall Rating 9.3

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$33

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Carcassonne offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $33. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Carcassonne.


Transportation

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Carcassonne to Bordeaux, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.



6. Bordeaux

Photo of Bordeaux

3 Days

Bordeaux is a the heart of France's winegrowing district. It's also a port city that's filled with a lot of history and architecture. The surrounding countryside is filled with vineyards and the city has many great restaurants where you can sample traditional cuisine and local wine.

Bordeaux offers museums, nightlife, delicious food, and beautiful locations.

Eat your way through Bordeaux, as it has many local or world renowned restaurants to choose from.

What to See in Bordeaux
La Cité du Vin
Around 4 hours
€22
The Bordeaux Wine Route
Great for couples
€150
The Miroir d’Eau
Great for families
Free
Basilica of Saint Michael
€5
Les Halles de Bacalan
Great for budget travelers
Free
The Bordeaux City Center
Great for couples
Free

How to Spend 3 Days in Bordeaux

Day 1:

Don't miss Cathédrale Saint-André during your trip to Bordeaux, 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 culinary scene in Bordeaux 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. Both food and wine are a major draw to this culinary city, which is known for its pastries and rich flavors. Popular local dishes include grilled duck, duck foie gras, and canelés.

Bordeaux 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 city has many pedestrian areas and large squares to explore.

Day 2:

Shopping in Bordeaux 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. The city has a mix of luxury fashion brands, jewelry shops, perfume suppliers, and leather goods. There are department stores, local boutiques, and pedestrian shopping areas that you can explore.

Bordeaux 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 is filled with beautiful architecture, parks, and gardens.

The public transit in Bordeaux is fast and efficient. Over the course of a few days, you should be able to explore the city quite easily and affordably. There are buses, trams and a ferry that runs along the river.

Day 3:

You'll find a few good museums and historic landmarks here, so it's worth your time to spend a day exploring a few of them. The city has many historical landmarks and museums to explore. Cathédrale Saint-André, Tour Le Grand-Théâtre, and Basilique Saint-Seurin are all notable monuments that are worth visiting.

The nightlife scene is very popular here. After dark, head out to one of the many venues around town. The city comes to life at night with dance clubs, wine bars, student pubs, and more.

More Activities

You'll find a wide array of activities, attractions, tours, and things to do in Bordeaux. Here are a few of the best options for you to compare prices and book ahead.


Overall Rating: 5.0 with 21 ratings
$136
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 19 ratings
$53
Overall Rating: 5.0 with 10 ratings
$142

For more activities and things to do, check out The Best Wine Tours in Bordeaux, The Best Cheap Walking Tours in Bordeaux, The Best Affordable Food Tours in Bordeaux, and The Best Cheap Airport Transfers in Bordeaux.


Bordeaux Costs
Daily Average Travel Cost Per Person
$127

Based on the spending patterns of past travelers, the average daily travel expenses in Bordeaux 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 Bordeaux here.


Category Budget Mid-Range Luxury
Local Transportation1 $7 $17 $32
Food2 $21 $49 $96
Entertainment1 $4 $8 $16
Alcohol2 $12 $28 $54
Accommodation

Hotels
Average Hotel Price
$112

When it comes to accommodations in Bordeaux, you're looking at an average hotel room price of $112, calculated from the data of 134 hotels curated by Kayak. Get an in-depth look at the specifics with our analysis of hotel costs in Bordeaux here.


Suggested Hotels
44 Rue Vital Carles, Bordeaux
Overall Rating 9.1
3 rue de la Faurie Monbadon, Bordeaux
Overall Rating 8.8

Hostels
Average Hostel Price Dorm Bed
$28

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Hostels in Bordeaux offer not just savings but also a chance to connect with fellow travelers. The average cost for a dorm bed in the area comes in at $28. For a deeper dive into hostels, check out our comprehensive overview of hostel costs in Bordeaux.


Final Transportation

As this is the last destination in the itinerary, you can make your way back to Paris.

Traveling by train is a great way to journey from Bordeaux to Paris, as it's low-cost, quick, and enjoyable. Prices vary by date, so be sure to see train schedules and prices here.



Next Steps

So now that you have all of the information you need to plan your 14-day trip in 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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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.

Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.

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