Less touristy, much calmer and with a much more authentic feeling. Here you don’t feel like you’re walking through a museum full of people where you move forward in line seeing rooms from afar. Fontainebleau really feels like a lived-in place. And it makes sense: it was the residence of 34 French kings and 2 emperors, including Napoleon Bonaparte.

The experience is completely different. More relaxed, more intimate, and, honestly, much more emotional. There are moments where you literally feel the weight of the story upon you.

If you’re thinking of visiting Fontainebleau from Paris, we’ll tell you how to get there, what to see, how much it costs, and whether Fontainebleau is really worth visiting.

Why Fontainebleau surprised us more than Versailles

Versailles is world-famous. Fontainebleau, on the other hand, remains one of those places that many tourists still overlook. And that’s precisely where part of its charm lies.

From the moment we entered, we felt a different energy. Much less chaos, fewer large groups, and more freedom to explore the palace at your own pace. There are rooms where you can stop for several minutes simply observing details without anyone pushing you to move forward.

Furthermore, Fontainebleau has something difficult to explain: it feels more human.

It’s not just a pretty palace. It is a place where decisive moments in French history occurred.

And that becomes very real when you arrive at the Throne Room or the famous Abdication Room. There you understand that you are standing exactly where Napoleon abdicated before going into exile. These are the kinds of places that make you feel small in the face of history, but also fortunate to be able to see it so closely.

The visit becomes much more immersive than in other palaces near Paris.

Entrance to the Palace of Fontainebleau

Excursion to the Palace of Fontainebleau

A much less touristy and more authentic palace

One of the things we liked most was precisely that: Fontainebleau still retains a certain tranquility.

While Versailles can feel exhausting depending on the season, here everything is more relaxed. You can stroll through the galleries at your leisure, sit in the gardens, or simply lose yourself wandering among the ponds.

Even the photos are more enjoyable.

And of course… it’s impossible not to mention the famous Horseshoe Staircase, the symbol of the palace and one of the most impressive spots in Fontainebleau. This is where Napoleon bid farewell to his guard before departing into exile.

Today everyone wants their picture taken there… and honestly, with good reason.

How to get to the Palace of Fontainebleau from Paris

Getting to Fontainebleau from Paris is much easier than it seems. In fact, it’s one of the best day trips you can take from the French capital.

Take the train from Gare de Lyon (the easiest option)

The most practical and economical way to visit Fontainebleau independently is by train.

Step by step

• Depart from Gare de Lyon in Paris.
• Take Line R towards Montargis or Montereau.
• Get off at Fontainebleau-Avon.
• The journey takes approximately 40 minutes.

Once you arrive at the station, you can take bus Line 1 which drops you off practically in front of the palace.

Approximate prices

• Train: from €5 per journey.
• Bus: approx. €2
• If you have a Navigo pass, the journey is usually included.

The truth is that the whole route is quite simple and well connected.

Arriving by car from Paris

If you prefer more freedom, going by car is also a very good option.

The journey from Paris takes approximately one hour, depending on traffic. Having a car also allows you to make the most of the day by visiting other nearby places.

Many travelers combine Fontainebleau with:

• Vaux-le-Vicomte
• Barbizon
• Provins
• small villages of Île-de-France

There is paid parking right in front of the palace, which makes visiting much easier.

Organized excursions to Fontainebleau

If you don’t want to worry about schedules, trains or logistics, there are also organized tours from Paris.

Most include:

• round trip transportation
• audio guide
• tickets
• leisure

In addition, many tours combine Fontainebleau with the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte in the same day, and honestly, it’s a spectacular plan.

What to see at the Palace of Fontainebleau

Although many people think that Fontainebleau is “just another castle”, the reality is that it has some of the most important historical sites in France.

And the best part is that you can explore them without the feeling of overcrowding that is common in other famous palaces.

The impressive Horseshoe Staircase

The Horseshoe Staircase is probably the most iconic image of the Palace of Fontainebleau.

Majestic, elegant, and enormous.

But besides being beautiful, it has enormous historical significance: this is where Napoleon said goodbye to the Imperial Guard before going into exile in 1814.

When you know the history and then stand there in front of it, the place changes completely.

It’s not just “a pretty staircase.” It’s living history.

The Throne Room and the Abdication Room

These were, for us, the most impressive rooms of the entire visit.

Especially because Fontainebleau preserves the only authentic throne room in France that remains intact.

And then there’s the Abdication Hall.

Knowing that Napoleon signed his abdication there makes the moment feel so much more real. It’s one of those places where you automatically lower your voice even if no one is saying anything to you.

The gardens and the Grand Canal

After exploring so much opulence, stepping out into the gardens completely changes the energy of the place.

And honestly… it was one of our favorite parts.

Among the paths, ponds and the enormous Grand Canal, you can perfectly understand why so many kings preferred Fontainebleau as their residence.

Everything feels much more natural and less rigid than Versailles.

And yes… they will also quickly discover that the real owners of the place are the ducks.

How much does it cost to visit Fontainebleau

The Palace of Fontainebleau is considerably cheaper than other major attractions near Paris.

Tickets

• General admission: €17
• Under 18s: Free
• EU residents under 25s: Free

Oficial web Fontainebleau Castle

Free admission

Admission is usually free on the first Sunday of each month, except during the summer months.

However, it’s advisable to check for updated opening hours and prices before visiting, as they may change depending on the season.

Book your ticket for the Palace of Fontainebleau

Is Fontainebleau worth visiting from Paris?

Yes. Absolutely.

In fact, if you’ve already visited Versailles, Fontainebleau might surprise you even more.

Because here you don’t just visit a stunning palace. You also have:

• Fewer tourists
• More tranquility
• A more authentic experience
• A wealth of real history linked to Napoleon
• Enormous gardens where you’ll truly want to linger

We went thinking it would be a “side” excursion and ended up leaving fascinated.

Fontainebleau vs Versalles

If you are looking for:

• Vast gardens and spectacle → Versailles
• A more tranquil and authentic experience → Fontainebleau

Versailles impresses with its scale. Fontainebleau captivates with its atmosphere.

And honestly, we think Fontainebleau is far more underrated than it deserves.

How to combine Fontainebleau with Vaux-le-Vicomte

If you have time, visiting Fontainebleau and Vaux-le-Vicomte on the same day is one of the best day trips from Paris.

Plus, Vaux-le-Vicomte has an incredible history: it was the palace that inspired the construction of Versailles.

Many travelers do the following:

Fontainebleau in the morning.

Vaux-le-Vicomte in the afternoon.

And it’s a spectacular combination!r si te gustan los castillos franceses y la historia.

Tips for visiting Fontainebleau

• Try to arrive early to enjoy the palace with fewer crowds.
• Set aside at least half a day for your visit.
• Wear comfortable shoes because the gardens are enormous.
• If possible, avoid weekends during peak season.
• The stroll through the gardens is well worth it, even if you don’t go inside the palace.
• If you have Navigo, check because the train fare is likely included.

Frequently asked questions about Fontainebleau from Paris

How long does it take to visit Fontainebleau?

Ideally, you should dedicate between 3 and 4 hours to explore the palace and gardens at a leisurely pace.

Is it possible to visit Fontainebleau in one day?

Yes, absolutely. It’s one of the best day trips from Paris.

Which is better: Versailles or Fontainebleau?

It depends on what you’re looking for.

Versailles is more spectacular and famous. Fontainebleau is quieter, more authentic, and much less crowded.

We honestly didn’t expect to fall so deeply in love with Fontainebleau.

Conclusion

Is Fontainebleau worth visiting from Paris?

The Palace of Fontainebleau is probably one of the most underrated day trips you can take from Paris.

It boasts history, incredible gardens, spectacular rooms, and a much more relaxed atmosphere than other famous French palaces.

And above all, it has something hard to find in such touristy places: the feeling that it still retains its own unique character.

If you’re hesitating about whether or not to make this visit, our answer is a resounding yes: it’s absolutely worth it.

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience and is entirely objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada Fontainebleau Palace from Paris: how to get there, what to see and whether it’s worth it se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

France is one of those destinations that seems made for leisurely exploration. Half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and villages straight out of a fairytale make every stop special.

On this road trip through France, we explore some of the country’s most beautiful towns and cities, passing through Champagne and Alsace, until we reach Strasbourg and end at one of the most impressive palaces near Paris.

It’s a perfect itinerary to do in 7 days, combining medieval villages, historic cities and vineyard landscapes.

A tour of the most beautiful villages in France (video)

Before starting with the complete guide, here you can watch the video of this road trip through some of the most beautiful villages in France.

In it, we show the full route, the villages of Alsace, the Christmas markets, the vineyard landscapes, and all the places we visited during the trip.

Video of the Route Through France

In the video, you’ll see places such as Troyes, Colmar, Eguisheim, Turckheim, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Ribeauvillé, Strasbourg, and the Palace of Fontainebleau, along with tips for planning the route.

Car Rental to Travel Around France

For this route, we decided to rent a car, as we believe road trips through villages are an excellent option.

Traveling by car allows you to explore the region with complete freedom, stop in the villages that catch your attention the most, and adapt the pace of the trip.

We booked the vehicle through DiscoverCars, a platform that compares different rental companies and makes it easy to choose the best option based on your dates and destination.

Rent a Car with a Discount on DiscoverCars

The process is very simple:

• Choose the pickup and drop-off location
• Select dates and times
• Compare models and prices
• Add the recommended insurance coverage
• Confirm the reservation online

Itinerary Through the Most Beautiful Villages in France

Circular route:

Paris → Troyes → Mulhouse → Eguisheim → Colmar → Turckheim → Riquewihr → Kaysersberg → Ribeauvillé → Strasbourg → Fontainebleau → Paris

Troyes, One of the Best-Preserved Medieval Cities in France

Troyes was the first stop of the trip, about 170 km from Paris, in the Champagne region.

This medieval city is famous for its leaning half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, and squares full of history.

Among the places you shouldn’t miss:

• Cathedral of Saint Peter and Saint Paul
• Church of Saint Madeleine
• The medieval historic center

Walking around Troyes is an experience in itself: hidden courtyards, colorful façades, and architecture that seems frozen in time.

If you visit the city in December, you’ll also find a beautiful Christmas market that fills the squares with lights and traditional stalls.

Where to stay in Troyes

Recommended hotel in the historic center:

Best Western Premier de La Poste & Spa

Mulhouse and Its Unique Museums in Europe

The next stop was Mulhouse, in the Alsace region, about 300 km from Troyes.

Although its historic center is small, the city is known for hosting some of the most important museums in Europe.

Mulhouse Automobile Museum

It is the largest private collection of classic cars in the world, featuring historic vehicles, luxury models, and Bugatti masterpieces.

Approximate entrance fee: €18

Train Museum

One of the most important railway museums in Europe, featuring original locomotives and train cars from different eras.

Approximate entrance fee: €16

After the visit, we continued toward one of the most beautiful villages in Alsace.

Eguisheim, One of the Most Picturesque Villages in France

Eguisheim was our base for three nights while exploring several nearby villages.

This small Alsatian village is surrounded by vineyards and is part of the Alsace Wine Route.

Its most curious feature is that the village is organized in concentric circular streets around the central square.

Among the highlights:

• Half-timbered houses in pastel colors
• Central square with the Castle of the Counts of Eguisheim
• Saint-Léon Chapel with views over the vineyards

It is also said to have inspired the village in Disney’s film “Beauty and the Beast.”

At night, the atmosphere becomes especially magical, when the tourists leave and the village regains its tranquility.

Where to stay in Eguisheim

Bed & Breakfast where we stayed:

La Ferme du Pape

Colmar, the Jewel of Alsace

Just 6 km from Eguisheim lies Colmar, one of the most famous destinations in Alsace.

Its historic center is a perfect blend of a city and a medieval village.

The most famous area is La Petite Venise, with canals lined by colorful houses and balconies full of flowers.

Other highlights:

• Church of Saint Martin
• Perfectly preserved medieval houses
• Historic squares and markets

At night, the lighting of the old town creates a very special atmosphere, especially during the Christmas market.

Where to stay in Colmar

Hotel Turenne

Turckheim, a Medieval Village with City Walls

Just 7 km from Colmar, Turckheim is another of the most charming villages in the area.

It is characterized by:

• Its original medieval gates
• Half-timbered houses
• Cobblestone streets filled with flowers

It is a small and peaceful village, perfect for wandering around without any rush.

An important advantage is that there are free parking areas at the entrance of the village, which makes the visit much easier if you are traveling by car.

Riquewihr and Kaysersberg

Both villages are located along the Alsace Wine Route and are two of the most famous in the region.

Riquewihr

It is one of the most visited villages in Alsace, with perfectly preserved medieval streets and colorful houses.

During the Christmas season, it can get quite crowded, but it is still a must-visit destination.

Kaysersberg

Just a few kilometers from Riquewihr lies Kaysersberg, a village with a much quieter atmosphere.

Highlights include:

• Its medieval fortified bridge
• Traditional Alsatian houses
• Kaysersberg Castle

It is a perfect place to take a break and enjoy the regional cuisine.

Ribeauvillé, Another Must-Visit Village in Alsace

Before arriving in Strasbourg, we made a stop in Ribeauvillé.

This medieval village is famous for:

• Its three towers on top of the hill
• Its main street lined with colorful houses
• Its traditional Alsatian atmosphere

It’s a short stop but highly recommended if you’re exploring the region by car.

Strasbourg, the Capital of Alsace

From Ribeauvillé, it’s about 50 km to Strasbourg, one of the most beautiful cities in France.

Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Must-see places include:

• Strasbourg Cathedral
• La Petite France
• Medieval canals and bridges
• Historic squares and markets

During December, the city also hosts one of the most famous Christmas markets in Europe.

Where to stay in Strasbourg

Hotel Ibis Strasburgo Petite France

Palace of Fontainebleau

Before returning to Paris, we made one final stop at the Palace of Fontainebleau.

This palace was the residence of the kings of France for almost eight centuries, from Francis I to Napoleon Bonaparte.

Here, Napoleon signed his first abdication in 1814 before leaving for exile.

The visit allows you to explore:

• Imperial halls
• Royal apartments
• Historic gardens and courtyards

Approximate entrance fee: 14 €

It is recommended to spend at least two hours exploring it at a relaxed pace.

Excursion to Fontainebleau from Paris

If you don’t have a car, you can visit it on an organized excursion.

Excursion to Fontainebleau from Paris

Conclusion: A Perfect Route Through the Villages of France

This route through France combines medieval villages, historic cities, and vineyard landscapes, making it an ideal trip for those who want to discover some of the most beautiful places in the country.

In just one week, it’s possible to explore the Champagne and Alsace regions, visit cities like Strasbourg, and finish the trip with a historic palace near Paris.

And what makes this itinerary especially unique is doing it by car, as it allows you to travel freely between villages and stop at every corner that appears along the way.

Map of the Route Through the Villages of France

To help you organize the trip better, here is the map with all the stops on this road trip through France.

Route Map

Frequently Asked Questions About the Route Through the Villages of France

How many days are needed to explore the villages of Alsace?

Ideally, you should spend between 3 and 4 days visiting the main villages of Alsace such as Colmar, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Kaysersberg, Turckheim, and Ribeauvillé.

Many of them are less than 15 km apart, making it easy to visit several of them on the same day.

Is it recommended to do this route by car?

Yes, it is the best way to explore the region.

Although some cities have train connections, many small villages are not well connected, and having a car allows you to visit several places in the same day and move around with complete freedom.

In addition, the vineyard landscapes of the Alsace Wine Route are much more enjoyable when driving between villages.

Which is the most beautiful village in Alsace?

It’s difficult to choose just one, but the most famous are:

• Eguisheim
• Riquewihr
• Kaysersberg
• Ribeauvillé
• Turckheim

Each one has its own charm, but Eguisheim and Colmar are often listed among the most beautiful villages in France.

What is the best time to visit the villages of Alsace?

Each season has its own charm:

Spring: green vineyards and peaceful villages

Summer: pleasant weather and open terraces

Autumn: harvest season and incredible colors

Winter: Christmas markets and a magical atmosphere

December is especially popular because of the Christmas markets.os mercados navideños de Alsacia, considerados de los mejores de Europa.

Where is the best place to stay to explore Alsace?

Many travelers choose Colmar because of its size and services, but staying in Eguisheim or another nearby village can be a more authentic experience.

In addition, most villages are less than 15 minutes away by car, so almost any base works well.

Other articles that may interest you

• What to See in Strasbourg
• What to See in Colmar
• The Most Beautiful Villages in Alsace

   NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience and is completely objective. This article contains affiliate links.

La entrada Road trip through some of the most beautiful villages in France se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

So we started this day in Paris getting ready for the evening at Madame Brasserie.

What to see in Paris, updated guide

Arrival and dinner time at the Eiffel Tower

Madame Brasserie is located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. We booked online.

Dinner time is at 9pm. I am going to refer exclusively to dinner because that is what we had, but you can also have lunch, the times are at 12pm or 1.30pm.

Arrival at the Eiffel Tower is 30 minutes before dinner time. The entry point is the south entrance of the tower, entrance number 1. The nearest metro station is Bir Hakeim on line 6 or, on line 9, Trocadero station, on RER C, Champ de Mars station. By bus 30 or 82, stop at Eiffel Tower.

Once you have passed through security, you will find the restaurant’s welcome counter where you will present your voucher and you will be given access to the elevator to the first floor.

Clarification: you will have access to the first floor, you will not be able to access the second or the top.

Do you want to climb the Eiffel Tower to the top or to the second floor? Here is the guide to the skip-the-line climb

Once you leave the counter, you will access the elevator. In just a few minutes, you will be on the first floor.

And… already inside the Eiffel Tower to dine in this beautiful iron construction

Dining tables at the Eiffel Tower

When choosing a table you will find that depending on the menu you will have options of place.

With the Gustave menu, the location will be in the heart of the restaurant, so it is the middle part, the center of it.

And with the Grand Dame menu you have two options, one is the center of the restaurant like the previous one and the other is the area with views of Paris.

We took the latter. Now let’s turn a little and look, it gives us the option to choose the area with the views, NOT the window, as you can see there are several tables in the area and if you are thinking of being seated in the window overlooking Trocadero this is not the case. You have to be clear about this so as not to be disappointed. But nobody can take away the feeling of dining in one of the most famous monuments in the world.

Madame Brasserie’s Menu

With the Gustave menu you will have a starter, main course and dessert. A glass of Champagne, wine, water and coffee.

With the Grand Dame menu, you will have a starter, two main courses, desserts, and a few pastries for coffee. A glass of champagne, wine during the evening, water, and coffee.

When you arrive, you will scan the menu and you will be able to choose between the options presented to you for each dish.

The food is very good, perhaps on the downside I could say that they rush you a bit between courses, but well, maybe for others it’s fine and it’s just that I’m a very slow eater.

The rain stopped while we were having dinner, so on the way out we walked a bit around the first floor but the rain prevented us from getting some nice shots so you could see the night in the tower.

AND…. a dinner on board a bus in Paris??

Prices for dinner at the Eiffel Tower

Prices vary by menu and location. The Gustave menu and the Grande Dame menu are the options. If you choose to have lunch, the prices are lower. Here is the link so you can check out the options and prices.

Dining at Madame Brasserie

Lunch at the Eiffel Tower

Our opinion

Was it worth it for us to dine at the Eiffel Tower? If we were only thinking about the views we would say no, you can get better ones from other sides, but as an experience of being inside such an emblematic monument, yes.

I would probably choose the centre of the tower so as not to pay more. I also think it would be a good option to choose to have lunch.

We really liked the food and also the fact that drinks were included.

Video

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

La entrada Dinner at the Eiffel Tower se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

Book in advance and compare prices using a reliable car rental search engine.

Bring a credit card in the name of the main driver.

Inspect the car and take photos when picking it up and returning it.

Check whether the city has low-emission zones (ZFE).

France is a country with so much to see beyond Paris — full of routes connecting charming villages and small towns. To explore it at your own pace and enjoy all these varied corners, one of the best options is to rent a car.

If you’re thinking about renting a car in France and don’t know where to start, in this article we’ll share our experience and the precautions you should take to enjoy an unforgettable road trip through France.

Conditions and policies may vary depending on the rental company, so it’s always best to check them before booking.

Why is it a good idea to rent a car in France?

If you follow us both in our posts and on our YouTube channel “Europe accompanied” you will have seen that we have several car routes through France.

And the first point in its favour is that, being able to plan the route to your liking, dedicating the days and times you want to it since the car will give you enough freedom to do so.

This is how you have seen us on the route through the castles of the Loire Valley, a journey between small towns and elegant castles that will leave you speechless.

Or the Alsace region, which we told you you can choose to visit both at Christmas and outside of it because it has a sublime charm and a car will allow you to reach places where public transport does not reach.

Have you seen our champagne route through France?, some beautiful villages that you can get to know on tour or… choose to do it by car as we did, to have the freedom to stop in the vineyards or visit wineries.

In short, freedom of schedules and choice would be the biggest plus.

Where to rent a car for my tour of France?

If your tour starts after a few days in Paris, it is advisable to rent a car for the day after you finish your tour in the city, because in this great capital a car is something you will not use.

Book early to get a good deal, and that’s why we always use a comparison tool.

You can make the reservation by checking the various models they offer you and the options for each one.

On these websites it will put the place from where you want to pick it up and return, your dates, and the comparator will give you many options among which you will evaluate according to your needs. I recommend the car rental metasearch engine DiscoverCars, you can place, apart from the above, several filters such as number of passengers, vehicle size and provider to help you in the search.

If you need to add an additional driver you can also do so during the booking process.

*Remember that you reserve a car category and not a specific car, which may be the one you are given or similar.

How to avoid unnecessary expenses when renting a car in France?

Please note that when picking up the car, the rental company will retain the excess amount from our credit card (this amount is always detailed in the car rental description in the comparison sites). This amount will be refunded when you return the car as it was delivered to you. If for some reason you return it with any damage, the rental company will deduct the repair costs from this excess.

The way to protect this deductible is to take out the insurance offered by the comparison site at the time of booking. We always do it this way and the times we have had to return the car with a scratch, the deductible insurance has returned all the money to us. So if you want to travel with more peace of mind, taking out the insurance that covers the deductible is a good option.

Returning the car to the same office where you picked it up usually makes it cheaper than returning it to another location, so in this case it would be a good idea to pick up the car in Paris and return it to Paris at the end of your tour of France, bearing in mind that your flight will probably also be from Paris.

Set the times (if your trip allows it) by returning it at the same time you picked it up, an hour or two more can add up to a full day of rental.

And the other point is anticipation, generally if you book the car well in advance of your trip you can get a good deal.

These are the points we follow in all our car rentals, both in France and in other places we visit.

What to consider before renting a car in France?

The mileage policy. You have some with unlimited mileage, meaning the number of kilometers you do during those days doesn’t matter, and others that mark a maximum number of kilometers, for example 3000 km. Think and calculate if those kilometers fit what you have planned for the total trip, because the kilometers that exceed those will be charged separately. The description details the price of the additional kilometers.

Check the minimum age they ask to rent the car, sometimes it can be 21 or 25 years old, check that just in case.

The size of the trunk. Think that if you are going to use it for several days you should travel comfortably. Are you with several suitcases?, look in the description how many fit in the trunk.

Place your flight number in the reservation if applicable, so that they estimate the time of your arrival, and in case you are late, always contact them so that they can keep your car. Give yourself a margin if you arrive by flight, do not place the same time for picking up the car as the landing time, between disembarking, doing migrations and picking up your bags almost an hour will have passed, so you will be sure that the car will still be available to you.

If you plan to travel through several countries, ask if there is any problem in them and let them know that you are going to do so, as you may be charged extra for taking the car to a country other than the one you rented it from.

What documentation do I need when picking up the car?

Valid driving licence. Obviously, you must bring your driving licence, and although they don’t usually ask for it when picking up the vehicle, it is always specified that an international licence is required if you are not from the European Union. We always carry it, although to tell the truth we have never been asked for it at the counter, but it is better to be safe than sorry.

A credit card in the driver’s name with enough available balance to block the excess amount.

The car reservation voucher.

Be attentive when removing it

Of all the tips for renting a car in France or elsewhere, the one I emphasize the most is that you read very carefully what you sign, and that you pay attention to whether you really want the extras that they will offer you at the counter.

You may be offered to add an additional driver, upgrade to a better vehicle category, or add full insurance on the vehicle to eliminate the deductible retention, among other things.

We always say no to these extras, especially the insurance, because in our case we already paid for the deductible coverage, otherwise it would not make sense to have purchased it. We also do not choose to change category, one because we have already thought about it very carefully when choosing the car, and another because the insurance we take out covers the deductible of the category we booked and not a higher one.

The second point you should pay attention to is checking all the details that the car already has, such as scratches on the paint, in short, any damage, these are generally minor things because they deliver a very new car, so be careful that they are written on the delivery form and take photos of all sides just in case.

Check the fuel policy. If you are given a full tank, you must return it full. If it is half full, make sure that this is noted so that when you return it, you do not have a problem for having taken it with a half tank.

When you return the car, they will check with the person who receives it that it does not have any new damage. Take photos again of how you return it.

Tips to enjoy your trip to France by car

Choose the area you want to explore and dedicate time to it. We mentioned the Loire Valley route, the Champagne region route, Alsace, Burgundy and the Dordogne Valley, but there are countless places in France to explore at your leisure by car.

Be careful with traffic rules, pay attention to the speed limits for safety and to avoid fines. In addition to the cost of the fine, the rental company may incur administrative costs.

Frequently Asked Questions about Renting a Car in France

Is a credit card mandatory?
Yes, most rental companies require a credit card in the driver’s name to process the security deposit.

What is the minimum age to rent a car?
Generally 21 years old, although some companies charge an extra fee if the driver is under 25.

Can you cross into other countries like Belgium or Germany with a rental car from France?
Yes, most companies allow it, but it’s always a good idea to check with the rental agency first.

In summary (2026):
Renting a car in France remains an excellent option to explore the country at your own pace.
With a bit of planning and attention to detail, you can enjoy stunning landscapes, charming villages, and the freedom to travel without schedules.

I have nothing more to add about renting a car in France — our trips are almost always by car, so our final tip is: enjoy that dream journey along the French roads!

How to Make a Good Hotel Reservation Before a Trip

Dinner Bus in Paris Bustronome

Dinner at the Eiffel Tower

Tips for renting a car in France

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Day 1 in Paris

We will count this day from the morning, assuming that you have arrived at night and rested to begin living this city of lights. You will have to adjust the schedules according to your arrival to the city.

If you arrive the day before and are short on time, imagine when evening falls, you can use it to take a boat ride along the Seine, as it is a very nice way to start your tour of Paris.

Free Tour Paris

In the morning we will do a free tour, the classic, as if to have that first contact with the city and with someone who speaks our language. They usually start around 10 in the morning so you will have time to make a good breakfast and transfer to the meeting point.

Remember that you set the price of the tour, it is not free but free in terms of what you will stop paying.

The duration of the same is around 2 and a half hours, or a little more. So before approximately 13:00 we will have finished with this activity.

Many of them end up in front of the Louvre, so we will take advantage of being here to enter the Louvre Museum. Please note: it is closed on Tuesdays. These data and prices that I am giving are from May 2023, check them again.

There is something they have to be clear about, the ideal is to have the tickets already taken out in advance.

Louvre Museum

Three ways to get your tickets: enter the official website of the Louvre Museum or ticket booking pages and get the ticket with a schedule. The ticket price is € 17. They have a free day and time, check that on the web.

Take a guided tour: you can take a guided tour of the Louvre Museum in Spanish for about two hours.

And finally, get the Paris Pass. With this 4-day pass at the moment the Paris Museum is included that gives access to the Louvre, I say at this time because the options vary very often, so check, never get a pass or a ticket without having read everything very well. After you get the pass you must make the free reservation on the website with day and time, from the same page of the Paris Pass guide you.

Well, you’ll spend at least three hours inside the museum, so after leaving the Louvre we’ll take a leisurely stroll around the Palais Royal.

Palais Royal

Created by Cardinal de Richelieu in 1633 very close to the Louvre Museum, the Palais Royal and its gardens welcomed the royal families until the construction of Versailles.

The Buren columns were commissioned by the artist Daniel Buren and are located in the courtyard, near the garden. The 260 black and white striped octagonal columns are worth a visit and have become one of the symbols of Paris.

Do you already know where to stay?►The best areas to stay in Paris

Plaza Vendome

It is one of the world-famous squares in Paris for being one of the epicentres of luxury in Paris since the nineteenth century.

This square is the place where the Polish composer Frédéric Chopin died. And it is also where the hotel, the Ritz, is, from where Lady Di left before her fatal accident.

In the middle we see the famous Vendôme column, it was erected on Napoleon’s orders in 1810 to celebrate his victory in the Battle of Austerlitz.

Church of the Madeleine

If it’s early, we can still delay one of the last stops and choose to go see the Church of the Madeleine, but it closes at 7pm so it’s possible that you won’t find it open anymore. Free entry. More information on the website of the Church of the Madeleine

Place Concorde

The Place de la Concorde, is located in the 8th arrondissement at the beginning of Champs Elyseés. At its center is the Obelisk of Luxor, it is a obelisk from the Temple of Luxor of ancient Tebas (Egypt), it was placed in the square in 1836.

Tuileries Garden

 Perhaps you have already done this step with the free tour, one way or another you can take a break here.

Please note that daylight hours and timetables will vary depending on the time of year you are traveling, so we may deduct some points because it is already late.

We will end each day with a night view, in this case we will retrace our steps towards the Louvre to end the night with the pyramid illuminated.

Here is the map with the points traveled marked on it.

Day 2 in Paris

We start this second day of what to see in Paris on the hill of Montmartre, in the eighteenth arrondissement.

Montmartre

We will probably travel from our accommodation by metro and get off at Anvers station to start the climb to the carousel and from there we can go up the stairs or take the funicular. The price is one metro ticket, you may have purchased the Navigo or Paris Visite transport pass and it is already included.

Once at the top, we will first admire the wonderful views of the city and then the entrance to the Sacre Coeur Basilica. The queue, although long, moves quickly and admission is free.

The foundation stone of the basilica was laid in 1875, and although it was completed in 1914, it was not consecrated until the end of the First World War, in 1919.

You can do the tour on your own as we did here or book a free tour of Montmartre to tour them with a guide.

We arrive at the Place du Tertre, we will get lost here among the tourists, perhaps we will want to have a portrait drawn or have a coffee at one of those small Parisian tables.

We will spend the whole morning of this second day in Montmartre. Don’t miss the vineyard, the Maison Rose, the Cabaret Lápin Agile, the Rue de l’Abrevoir, the Mouline de la Galette, or the I Love You wall.

We will finish the tour at the Moulin Rouge. If you want a more detailed tour, including distances, we have the Montmartre post here.

It will be past noon, we will probably sit down to eat something and take the subway to…

The Opéra Garnier

As always, I recommend you to go with the entrance to the Opéra Garnier already booked. The price of it is € 14.

The Garnier Opera House, also known as Garnier Palace or Paris Opera House, is one of the most characteristic buildings of the IXth arrondissement of Paris Napoleon III ordered its construction to architect Charles Garnier, it was inaugurated in 1875.

I recommend visiting the opera house, the interior is wonderful, it is a worthwhile visit, another of the must-sees in Paris.

Galeries Lafayette

And from here we take a short walk to the Galeries Lafayette viewing point, one of the best viewing points in Paris and with free entry.

Take time to admire the gallery as well.

Printemps Galleries

We will continue our steps to the Printemps Haussman gallery. Also on its rooftop they have a viewpoint to enjoy, as well as its interior architecture.

If it is still early and you are not tired, you can add to these galleries some of the covered passages of Paris, such as the Passage Des Panorama, the Passage Verdeau or the Vivienne Gallery. If you are interested in this type of tour, we have a detailed route with the Covered Passages of Paris.

And now, we start the journey by metro to the icon of Paris, the Eiffel Tower.

Eiffel Tower

For the climb to the Eiffel Tower we will have the ticket reserved in advance, as soon as you have your plans in place do not delay in getting this ticket because many times later you do not get it for the day and time chosen.

You can get it on the official website of the Eiffel Tower or on the Eiffel Tower ticket booking pages. The price of the climb to the top is €28.30. They have several types of climbs, up to the second floor, to the top, by elevator, by stairs + elevator, so take time to see what you choose. ►Climb the Eiffel Tower avoiding the queue

We will choose to go up in the afternoon, because it will be a very nice finale to the day to see the golden hour from the top. (Look on the internet for their dates at what time the sun goes down).

When you descend perhaps it is already nightfall, or perhaps it will not be long, start the walk to Trocadero because tonight’s closing will be from there.

Night on the Trocadero esplanade with the Eiffel Tower lit up before our eyes, speechless.

Every hour on the hour you will see how all its lights become flashing.

End of day 2, but what an end!

Here on the map are the marked points of this route.

Are you arriving in Paris from far away like us and having internet all the time is a problem? When we do this type of trip we always use maps on our mobile, or we want to be connected in case of any eventuality. In our case we have used the data eSIM for travelers from Holafly, a very good option. In the link you will find all the information as well as a discount for followers of Europe accompanied by the following code: EUROPAACOMPAÑADA5.↓

Day 3 in Paris

Today we will get up early because a palace is waiting for us. We are going to the Palace of Versailles.

Palace of Versailles

The Palace of Versailles was the royal residence between 1682 and 1789. It is located in the municipality of Versailles, about 20 kilometers from Paris, and receives millions of visitors every year.

Versailles comprises three palaces: Versailles, Grand Trianon and Petit Trianon, as well as several buildings located in the town.

The journey will be by RER train. The RER C line will drop you off a 5/10 minute walk from the palace. You can link it from your nearby metro station to the station from the RER C line towards Versailles Château – Rive Gauche (that’s the stop where you’ll get off).

You can get the ticket on the official website of Versailles or on the ticket sales pages for the Palace of Versailles, the cost of the full ticket is 21.50 /28.50 depending on whether it is a water show day or not. It is also included at this time in the Paris Pass 4 and 6 days.

You have different types of guided tickets, or with transport from Paris, so think in detail about how you would like to visit it, we help you in this post►How to visit Versailles

The tour of this palace will take us several hours so try to book the time early in the morning and you will probably not leave it until the afternoon.

It is a day that we are not going to leave full of activities because the palace and its gardens will surely take most of the day.

After finishing this activity we will return on the train to Paris to the Arc de Triomphe.

Arc de Triomphe

The Arc de Triomphe is one of the most famous monuments of the French capital and the world. It was built between 1806 and 1836 by order of Napoleon Bonaparte to commemorate the victory in the Battle of Austerlitz and is located in the VIIIth arrondissement.

Those who do not do so many are to climb it, and the views from it are very beautiful. So we’ll go up, the price of admission to the Arc de Triomphe is €13. It is also included in the 4 and 6-day Paris Pass.

Upon exiting the arch, we will take a walk along Champs Elysees. You can stop for dinner in the area. Remember that this is an area with somewhat higher prices. Always look at the menus before entering a restaurant anywhere, not just here, both to see what they offer and to see the prices so that you don’t have a bad experience.

And returning our steps towards the arch and now that night has arrived, we will end this day with the images of the illuminated arch, you will also get some very good photos, which I hope to be able to see.

Our day today↓

Day 4 in Paris

Today choosing what to see in Paris, we will start the day at the Cité.

Sainte Chapelle

We will start by visiting one of the most beautiful churches in Paris inside. We will visit the Sainte Chapelle.

It is considered one of the masterpieces of the radiant period of Gothic architecture. It was built to house the relics acquired by King St. Louis. The Sainte-Chapelle was consecrated in 1248. The stained glass windows stand out, they are wonderful, they leave you impressed.

The ticket price is €11.50, and since we will visit the Conciergerie next door, we will be interested to know that the combined ticket for Sainte Chapelle and Concergerie is €18.50. Included in the 4 and 6 day Paris Pass at this time.

As we said at the exit we will go next door the Conciergerie. The Conciergerie , or also Palais de la Cité, is a historic building that occupies the quay of the Clock. The palace was the residence of the kings of France from the x to xiv centuries. It ended up becoming prison of the State in 1392.

Between one visit and another we may already be close to noon, we will go for lunch at ….. the Latin Quarter.

Latin Quarter

We will now make a transfer to the Latin Quarter by metro, we will go to the Pantheon, then yes, we will walk back.

The Latin Quarter is a tour that I would not miss in the French city. Starting with the Pantheon, the Sainte Etienne du Mont Church, the locations of Emily in Paris or Midnight in Paris are located here in this neighborhood. Feel this Parisian atmosphere, you will breathe it in its streets without a doubt. The entrance to the Pantheon costs € 11.50 and is included in the Paris Pass of 4 and 6 days. We will spend quite a bit of time in it.

If you want to organize a complete tour of the Latin Quarter we have a post to do it, with the most emblematic places. You can also do this tour with a free tour of the Latin Quarter and add more information, remember to book it in advance.

Luxembourg Gardens

Our steps will now take us to the Luxembourg Gardens where we will take the opportunity to rest.

These gardens, designed in 1612 under the orders of Marie de Médicis, are  the most central and perhaps the most beautiful gardens in Paris. A break taken by the pond admiring the Luxembourg Palace will make it worthwhile to come here.

We will now slowly descend through the streets of the Latin Quarter until we reach the Seine and on the banks of it Notre Dame.

Notre Dame

This cathedral is an emblem for Paris, and we will now see it still under restoration due to the fire that occurred on April 15, 2019, an occasion on which many of our hearts were broken by this disaster.

You may want to go back to your hotel already quite tired from the day, but if you want to dine in this Latin Quarter, the little streets near the Fountain Saint Michel have a very large variety of restaurants. The night will have come.. and therefore our finishing touch of the day awaits us…..

Notre Dame at night. All of these things will depend on whether you spend the night there or not, so you can go back to the hotel and at night look for one of these places, you can go changing as you like. I’ll leave you with an idea of ​​an itinerary, which is just one among a thousand different ones that you can put together and all of them will surely be spectacular.

Day 5 in Paris

Last day in Paris and you will see the finishing touch to this itinerary.

Paris Catacombs

We will start the day in the 14th arrondissement of Paris and in the basement of the city The Catacombs of Paris.

As we know that not everyone will find this to be a good plan, we will leave you with other options at the end to add and exchange for sites that you already know or that do not interest you at all. I repeat, we all have different tastes.

The Paris Catacombs are a network of tunnels beneath the city, tunnels from old 15th century quarries that were later used to store bones from various cemeteries due to a plague problem in the city and to avoid health problems.

Tickets to the Paris Catacombs can be purchased online, and I advise you to do so because although it may not seem like it, thousands of people visit it every year. The cost of the same is €29. We have a video with the visit in detail.

It may be a visit that you want to make because it impresses you or it is not something to your liking, so as I said, if so, change this tour for one of the ones that we will leave at the end of the video.

The Invalides

After this visit that will take us about an hour we will go to visit Les Invalides to see Napoleon’s tomb.

The Palais des Invalides is an architectural complex located in the seventh arrondissement , near the Military School. Originally created as a residence for retired French soldiers and military personnel, it houses the mortal remains of Napoleon.

More than by the name, you may recognize it by the golden dome that we see shining from many parts of the city.

Entrance to Les Invalides and Napoleon’s tomb costs €14 and is included in the 4-day and 6-day Paris pass.

Orsay Museum

On a walk or by metro we will now go to the Musée d’Orsay.

Located in an old train station, the road is worth it both for all the works that you will find inside and for its structure.

It occupies, as we said, the old building of the Orsay railway station and houses the largest collection of Impressionist works in the world. The entrance fee to the Musée d’Orsay is €16 and is included in the tourist pass.

Centre Pompidou

From here we will go to the Pompidou center. The Centre National d’Art et Culture Georges Pompidou was designed by the architects Renzo Piano and Richard Rogers. The building, completed in 1977 houses the National Museum of Modern Art with one of the most comprehensive collections of modern and contemporary art in the world.

The entrance fee to the Centre Pompidou is €14 and is also included in the Paris Pass.

Le Marais

And now we will move to another of the emblematic neighborhoods of Paris, to le Marais

We will go to visit the Place des Vosges and get lost in its streets.

This wonderful square is home to Victor Hugo’s house which can be visited for free.

Getting lost in its streets will make us discover the charm of this neighborhood, and that on this last day we will continue to marvel at Paris.

Once you have visited all these places before you will have spent most of the day, remember that they are all places where you will spend a lot of time.

And now we will put the finishing touch to this itinerary. The last day we will finish on board the Seine.

Tour of the Seine

We will have our tickets reserved for the evening, to embark before nightfall and when it finds us on the Seine and the monuments begin to light up.

For this tour we have two options, just take the cruise, remember to sit on the deck to admire the city, so bring a coat.

Or… if you can afford it, end it on a dinner cruise. This dinner on the Seine will be a spectacular end to these wonderful days we spent in Paris. If you want to see if this will be to your liking and all the details of what it is like, including prices and menu, I leave you the video of what our experience was like, so you can evaluate it by looking at the images.

But what I have already told you several times, with or without dinner, the boat trip on the Seine River is something that I particularly would not miss.

More places to add in Paris

Here are some more things to see in Paris, for more days or change with some that you don’t like so much.

One is the Pere Lachaise cemetery, an interesting route. Another is the Montparnasse Tower viewpoint. The visit to the Defense and the climb to its arch

The tour of the Canal Saint Martin, a tour that I have enjoyed doing a lot.

The Viaduc des Arts and the Rue Cremieux.

I particularly liked getting on a hot air balloon from Citroen Park.

The Cluny Museum. In short, they have many more things to see in Paris and add in this wonderful city.

Full Video Guide

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

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Normandy is a region in northern France, characterized by the beauty of its coast as well as its towns and cities.

Fellow travellers, welcome to some of the most beautiful towns and villages in Normandy!

Rouen

We start in this city separated from Paris by 130 kilometers.

Rouen is the capital of the Normandy region and is located on the banks of the Seine River.

Its cobbled pedestrian centre with medieval half-timbered houses is a must-see in the city, as is the Notre-Dame cathedral, which appears in numerous paintings by the painter Claude Monet.

This religious monument has a Romanesque part built in 1030 and a Gothic part built in 1145. The cathedral was completed in 1506 and declared historical monument in 1862. In this cathedral lie the remains of Richard the Lionheart.

Rouen is beautiful, it is impossible not to include it among the most beautiful towns in Normandy.

The truth is that the advice, as is often the case, is to walk a lot, try to walk slowly, and look up whenever you can, because the wooden framework of the houses and the inclination of many of them due to the type of construction in the Middle Ages, means that we cannot stop being amazed by the images that reach our eyes.

The Great Clock that crosses the street is made up of a bell tower with a gilded lead sundial. The Great Clock is another of the places that we cannot miss in this city, it is truly a marvel.

The city is closely associated with Joan of Arc, as she was executed in Rouen, a fact we remember when we arrive at the Market Square.

Many half-timbered houses are concentrated on this square, as well as the new market, the contemporary Church of St. Joan of Arc and the Cross of the Rehabilitation, which marks the spot where Joan of Arc was burned on 30 May 1431. In the Middle Ages, public punishments and executions took place here.

A market is still operating in the place.

We stayed in Rouen, the hotel chosen was the Hotel Litteraire Gustave Flaubert. The hotel has charm and the location is very good.

Étretat

90 kilometres from Rouen we find Étretat. These cliffs, famous for having been portrayed by Monet on several occasions, are a must on this tour.

The town is small and charming, but the beach and its cliffs attract all the attention due to their grandeur and beauty.

This tour of Normandy is a must-see, and as I was saying, these are just some of the places you can find.

We do less than 50 kilometers and arrive at a town of magical beauty.

Honfleur

We cross the Normandy Bridge: It is one of the largest bridges in the world. It connects Lower Normandy with Upper Normandy and we arrive at ….. Honfleur.

Beautiful half-timbered houses reflecting in the water greeted us upon arrival in Honfleur. The truth is that the spectacle is wonderful and the place is unmissable, even if you just go for the day.

Typical shops and restaurants make this Normandy port one of the most beautiful places on the coast of northern France. A must-see on any tour of Normandy.

The wooden Church of Saint Catherine is an icon in this coastal town, it has a dome separate from the main building and is the largest church in France built in wood.

Like the cliffs of Étretat, it was also portrayed several times by Monet or Courbet, among other artists.

64 kilometers separate us from Caen.

We rented the car in Paris to tour several places in France and we will return it in Paris at the end of the tour. As I always say, it is generally a bit cheaper to pick up and return it in the same place.

►Find the car for your tour on Discovercars

Fall

64 kilometers now separate us from Caen.

Caen was badly affected by World War II. It was liberated on 9 July 1944, Caen was later rebuilt.

Caen is a port city in France and the capital of the Calvados department in the northern region of Normandy. In the centre of the city is Caen Castle, a fortress built by William the Conqueror around 1060, which stands on a hill flanked by two Romanesque abbeys of the same period, Saint-Étienne and Sainte-Trinité.

The Abbey of the Ladies and the Abbey of the Men stand out in the city. From this city we made a route along the beaches of the Normandy landings.

In Caén we stayed at the Best Western Royal Hotel Caen. The location is very good, average breakfast, quite spacious room. They have an underground car park just opposite, this is always good if you arrive by car.

Always remember, when putting together your vacation, to take out travel insurance. We use Iati, from our link they have a 5% discount on hiring it.

Bayeux

Bayeux is separated from Caen by about 40 kilometers.

From afar we can see its imposing cathedral. The Cathedral of Our Lady of Bayeux in Norman Romanesque style is a national monument.

During the Second World War it is occupied by the Germans being liberated on June 7 of 1944, day in which the British troops made it the first French city liberated in the course of the Battle of Normandy, from which it could be saved practically intact, unlike other Norman cities that suffered severe destruction.

Let’s now go to perhaps the most awaited visit, we go to Mont Saint Michel. We are separated from it by 115 kilometers.

Having internet is always important. During this trip to France we were in contact with the Holafly eSim, we got the one for unlimited use in Europe for the number of days we were there and it was a very good option. You activate it with a QR code, follow the instructions and it’s ready to use. It doesn’t work on all mobile models, so check the page carefully to see if it can be useful for you. With our code you get a 5% discount on your purchase. Here is the link with the discount for followers of Europe Accompanied! Holafly discount code, EUROPAACOMPAÑADA5

Mont Saint Michel

We arrive at this abbey built on a rocky island, and the place where the largest tides in Europe occur.

A magical place if there is one, one of the most beautiful places I have ever visited.

In a video from our previous trip, when we stayed overnight inside the mountain, we leave you with all the tips for getting there, entering, staying and visiting it.

Located in Normandy but only a few kilometres from Brittany, in the Middle Ages a group of monks chose this place to settle and build what would later become one of the most extraordinary buildings of religious architecture.

The main attraction of the mountain is perhaps visiting the abbey that is at its summit, a magnificent place to see, I leave you a link in the description of the information for the entrances to it. But the other great attraction is seeing the rise and fall of the tide.

►Mont Saint Michel Abbey tickets

To know what time that movement will be you have a tide calendar just like we saw in Saint Malo’s post, (the latter in Brittany).

If there is a place that I would add to a visit to France, it is this one, Mont Saint Michel, it is of impressive beauty, but as I told you in the other video if you can stay on the Monte, or near it to be able to visit it early in the morning or in the afternoon when there is no longer that massive tourism that is going to spend the day. Without a doubt, one of the most beautiful villages in Normandy.

Video of the most beautiful villages in Normandy

Map

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

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Étretat is just over 200 kilometers from Paris, so a transfer here can be a nice option.

We arrived by car to this small Norman town, looking for a place to park was a challenge, after several turns we ended up finding a small place.

Unlike what we always like, which is to stay in the place, here we arrived only for the day and we had to enjoy it.

We arrived thinking only of the cliffs, and we discovered this beautiful and charming town on the beach, with restaurants and shops so that tourists can enjoy nice moments. The walk through it was a good start for what was to come.

We walked leisurely through these streets, found the Old Market,  the building of the Hotel la Residence, and headed towards the beach to see the famous cliffs.

And a few steps away you reach this beach of pebbles instead of sand, a pleasure to walk for a while through this space full of seagulls.

But the silhouettes of the cliffs pierced by the sea were calling us and it is here where we will start the walk to see them from above.

Each one  of these cliffs with their fabulous shapes has a name, the first one that unfolds to our left is El Ojo de la Aguja, a natural arch that was formed by the erosion of the sea and is 70 meters high.

There is a reason why these cliffs, sculpted by the sea and the wind, led Monet to portray them several times; they are impressive.

Monet painted these cliffs many times, at all hours of the day, and then Boudin, Courbet, Corot, Delacroix, Matisse… The cliffs of Étretat have inspired the greatest artists and with good reason.

►If you visit this area of Normandy, going to visit the landing beaches can be a good idea.

We take a walk and decide to climb the path of the cliffs on the left side of the beach.

Here we will see the Falaise d’Aval, the Porte d’Aval, Manneporte and L’Aiguille.

An hour and a half of walking will take us until we reach the top and see these cliffs of Étretat on the Normandy coast from above, several viewpoints await us along the way.

Etretat is closely related to Arsène Lupin. Maurice Leblanc wrote a total of 19 novels, 39 short stories and 5 plays, all centred on Arsène Lupin. He wrote most of his works in Étretat, where in 1918 he bought a house, his home, which is now a museum.

Lately we have been able to hear about these adventures in the Lupin series, and also see these cliffs in one of its chapters in this series.

These cliffs are located on the Alabaster Coast, which is named for its striking white color due to its limestone.

Always remember, when putting together your vacation, to take out travel insurance. We use Iati, from our link they have a 5% discount on hiring it.

Once down, again on the beach, we can make the right side and go up to the Notre Dame de la Garde church and Les Jardins de Étretat.

►Entrance to the Gardens of Étretat

There is the possibility of going up to the gardens and seeing the chapel on a tourist train. The return ticket costs 6 euros and has a frequency of 40 minutes.

To get to this part you can also use the trail, because although there is a small road to go up by car, currently (or at least in summer when we went) it is closed, and you must leave the car in the village and make the journey on foot. Check back because these things sometimes change seasonally or over time.

►Visit Saint Malo in Brittany, French, have you seen this post?

We rented the car in Paris to tour several places in France and we will return it in Paris at the end of the tour. As I always say, it is generally cheaper to pick up and return in the same place. Check the prices with your dates in the search engine below.

►Find the car for your tour on Discovercars

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NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

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How to get to Saint Malo

Saint Malo is located about 420 kilometers from Paris and only 55 kilometers from Mont Saint Michel, so it can be a very good option if you are planning to visit the mountain and have a day to spare.

In addition we are on the Costa Smeralda, you can visit the beautiful beaches, islands and villages  of this coast.

The fast train connects Saint Malo with Paris in just over two hours, so it can be a good option for a visit.

If you don’t want to do it by car and at your own pace, there are two-day trips from Paris visiting Mont Saint Michel and also Saint Malo.

But if you chose to do it by car, I tell you that you will find parking lots outside the walls and inside the walls ►Check the location and costs of the parking lots in Saint Malo.

Saint Maló is often referred to as the corsair city and is that since medieval times had an important port through which passed many  sailors, but also many pirates who made it a rich and prosperous enclave, shipowners and city prospered in the shelter of its walls. From this citadel of the twelfth century formed on an islet sailed in the sixteenth century Jackes Cartier who would later discover Canada.

But let’s go to what to see in Saint Malo↓↓

Things to see in Saint Malo

After staying in a small and charming intramural accommodation, the Hotel Des Abers to spend the only night we would dedicate to Saint Malo, we quickly set out to start.

►Search hotels in Saint Malo

Wall of Saint Malo

The tour along the wall already makes us think that it was worth the visit,  along its almost two kilometers we find several  bastions and defensive towers that accompanied by the beautiful views obtained makes the walk magical and relaxed.

The nice thing about these small places is that you arrive almost without plans, you know that you will discover a lot just by getting lost in its streets. So that was what we did, walk around its walls to see from there the estuary with its port, and the forts.

Then we would have time to go down to its beaches and see the city with more perspective.

The tides

 This area has one of the highest tidal variations in the world, as well as on Mont Saint Michel. The tide table will indicate the time of rise and fall of the tide, both to see that spectacle and to know between what times we can cross to the forts.►Saint Malo Tide Table

Forts of Saint Malo

At low tide, you can reach the Petit Bé Fort and the Fort National, which are located in exceptional locations. From these islets, you have a wonderful view of Saint Malo.

We will cross to Saint Be Island if the tide is low, and if we find that it will take time to rise. Remember that you have, as in Saint Michel, a table with the exact time of rise and fall of the tide. At low tide you can also access the National Fort.

The National Fort can be visited, the entrance fee is €5.

Having internet is always important. During this trip to France we were in contact with the Holafly eSim, we got the one for unlimited use in Europe for the number of days we were there and it was a very good option. You activate it with a QR code, follow the instructions and it’s ready to use. It doesn’t work on all mobile models, so check the page carefully to see if it can be useful for you. With our code you get a 5% discount on your purchase. Here is the link with the discount for followers of Europe Accompanied! Holafly discount code, EUROPAACOMPAÑADA5

Corsair Frigate

In the port we find the corsair frigate Etoile du Roy which is a reproduction of a corsair frigate and can be visited inside, the price of the visit is € 6.

City within the walls

Saint Malo has several access gates, two of which will catch your attention, the first   La Porte de Saint Vicent, an imposing gate that gives access to the port, and the other is the Grand Porte.

Walking through the city walls is another activity that we cannot miss. We find many restaurants to taste seafood or other choices of dishes, both seafood and non-seafood.

We chose the Ostaleri bistro, the service was very good, and they speak some Spanish, that is always appreciated.

Saint Malo Castle and Saint Vincent Cathedral

Inside the walls we also find the Castle of Saint Malo. The Château de Saint Malo was built in 1424 by order of the Dukes of Brittany and the Cathedral of Saint Vincens.

After the Normandy Landings and the Allied advance into Brittany, German troops made a strong foothold in Saint-Malo. American troops heavily shelled the town before the Germans surrendered. Most of the intramurals, as well as the port, were devastated.

The city was, as we said, almost completely destroyed. On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the reconstruction of Saint Malo, we find outside the walls an open-air exhibition of photographs of how the city looked after the war.

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If you continue the tour of France, a good option is to visit Mont Saint Michel, or the Normandy D-Day Landing Beaches.

Always remember, when putting together your vacation, to take out travel insurance. We use Iati, from our link they have a 5% discount on hiring it.

NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

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Bordeux or Bordeaux is a port city in southwestern France, capital of the region of New Aquitaine and the prefecture of the department of Gironde.

How many days should we spend in Bordeaux? I think at least three to be able to see what we have left here, although there is certainly much more and we would need many more days to explore it well and calmly, in our case we did not have more days.

Free walking tour Bordeaux

We begin this tour of what to see in Bordeaux with a free tour, the same ones as you know we always like to do when we arrive in a city and from there begin a tour at our leisure with information about the city and data that we take the opportunity to ask the guides.

After finishing the tour and in the same place where we left off, we see the stone bridge.

Stone Bridge

This stone bridge spans the Garonne River. Built between 1810 and 1822 by orders of Napoleon I, it has been registered as a Historical Monument since 2002.

We stop looking at the bridge for a moment and go to the attraction that is perhaps the most striking in this city and of which you have surely seen impressive photos on Instagram, and which also encourages us to bring out our inner child and play for a while in the water. We are talking about the water mirror of the Place de la Bource.

►If you are putting together a tour of France do not miss this tour of ► Rocamadour

Water mirror

It is the most photographed place and one of the places to see in Bordeaux, between the Garonne and the 18th century façade, the Mirror of Water is now part of the contemporary World Heritage.

Two centimetres of water on a gigantic granite slab transform the magical place into a mirror where the old facades, the passing train and loads of children and adults playing in the water are reflected, turning it into a wonderful spectacle.

The recommendation is to go with plenty of time to enjoy it, especially if it is summer and you have a very hot day like we did, and the other recommendation is that in addition to going during the day, you should also go at night.

And from here we will cross towards the Place de la Bourse and retrace our steps towards the Stone Bridge to see on the way one of the 6 wonderful gates that the city has.

Cailhau Gate

This magnificent gate from the Middle Ages was built between 1493 and 1496 and allows access to it. We have not done it, the cost of it is €5.

Our steps will now take us to another of the gates, the Burgundy Gate.

Burgundy Gate

The Porte de Bourgogne was built in the mid-18th century, as part of a larger project to improve Bordeaux, carried out by the mayor, the Marquis de Tourny. Its construction took place from 1750 to 1755.

St. Michael’s Basilica

We continue our walk discovering what to see in Bordeaux and we are going to visit the Basilica of St. Michael.

Built from the fourteenth to the sixteenth century, it is characteristic of the flamboyant Gothic style.

The basilica has the peculiarity of being equipped with a bell tower outside the sanctuary.

Outside the church we find a very picturesque street market, but we are going to see a closed market, the Capuchin Market.

►Do you know the Dordogne Valley?, if you are putting together a tour of France it may be a good idea to add a few days in the area►Villages of the Dordogne

Capuchin Market

But we continue on and arrive at the Capuchin market. The first weekly market was held here on October 2, 1749, on the initiative of the Marquis de Tourny, who carried out important works in the district. After several changes over the years, its last renovation dates back to 1999. As in all the places we visit, a market is always charming.

Having internet is always important. During this trip to France we were in contact with the Holafly eSim, we got the one for unlimited use in Europe for the number of days we were there and it was a very good option. You activate it with a QR code, follow the instructions and it’s ready to use. It doesn’t work on all mobile models, so check the page carefully to see if it can be useful for you. With our code you get a 5% discount on your purchase. Here is the link with the discount for followers of Europe Accompanied! Holafly discount code, EUROPAACOMPAÑADA5

Porte d’Aquitaine and Piazza della Vittoria

We arrive at another of the city gates, the Aquitaine Gate and the Place de la Vittoria.

This former entrance to Bordeaux was built between 1754 and 1755 and dedicated to the Duke of Aquitaine.

The marble column located in the center of the square, celebrates the wine heritage of Bordeaux.

We cross the arch to reach the famous Rue Sainte-Catherine.

Santa Catalina Street

Santa Catalina Street is known as the longest pedestrian street in Europe. This street is one of the two main axes that cross the historic center of the city. It cuts through the center from Piazza della Vittoria, which we have just visited, to Piazza della Commedia.

Grosse Cloche

We now come to another of the city gates, the Grosse Cloche. The Grand Cloche was part of the walls of Bordeaux, and is the oldest gate still standing in Bordeaux.

You can see it on a guided tour the cost is €6.

A short walk awaits us until we reach the Bordeaux Cathedral and the Pey Berland Tower

Bordeaux Cathedral and Pey Berland Tower

The Cathedral of St. Andrew in Bordeaux is one of the main monuments and the most important church in the city. Since 1998 it has been part of the World Heritage Site as part of the Paths of Santiago de Compostela in France.  

Entrance is free. Like the previously visited Basilica of St. Michael, the bell tower is separate, the Pey Berland Tower. It was built in the 15th century and fearing that the cathedral could not bear the weight of the tower and its bells, it was built separately from the church. You can climb it to get beautiful views, the cost of the climb is €6.

Dijeaux Gate

Getting lost in streets and squares we arrive at the Porte Dijeaux. It was built by André Portier in 1748.

Place de Quinconces and Monument to the Girondins

We continue with this tour of what to see in Bordeaux and now we are going to see one of the largest squares in Europe, the Place des Quinconces and in it the Monument to the Girondins.

This large square was laid out in 1820 and the main monument in memory of the Girondins was erected between 1894 and 1902.

Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux

A few more steps and we will arrive at the Place la comedie and there we will find the Grand Theatre.

It was built between 1773 and 1780 and is an emblem for the city. It is a historical monument of France and is said to have inspired Charles Garnier for the creation of the Paris Opera.

From here, at least in our case, the free tour of Bordeaux that we took on the first day left.

In front of the theater we find the Le Gran Hotel de Bordeaux, on its rooftop it has a bar that you can access and enjoy apart from very good views, unfortunately we could not do it.

The square features the restaurants of two superstar celebrity chefs, Gorden Ramsay at the Grand Hotel and his French equivalent Philip Etchebest across the street at the Grand Theatre!

And now if we go two places that are different visits in the city.

The first will be the Bassins des lumieres, a light show in a former submarine base and finally the cité du vin.

Les Bassins des Lumières

As I was telling you, the place of the visit will be this abandoned submarine base, just thinking about going in to see what it is like caught my attention and… entering a totally dark place made me think for a moment if it had been a good idea to go… but it was only for a moment. As soon as the light and music show began, which is reflected in the walls and waters of the building, I was amazed.

As I always tell you, tastes depend on each person but I can only tell you that I loved it.

The ticket price is € 14.50, you can get them online on the official website of Les Bassins des Lumieres.

I can’t leave you the original music because of the copyright, so it looks and impacts less than it is to see it there live.

La Cité du Vin

And finally, I will tell you how the visit to the Cite de Vin turned out for us.

We have arrived at the city of wine, the cité du vin. This is a thematic visit, dedicated to wine. The City of Wine offers a fun visit to enjoy a journey through the world of wine through the history and geography of the world’s wine regions. At the end of the tour you will go up to the terrace with a view of the Garonne and the city to taste two glasses of wine.

If you are a big fan of wine tourism, this is something you cannot miss. It gives you a lot of information about the cultivation and production in different countries, it is very interactive, and the whole family can attend.►Cité du Vin

The city offers many more places to see in Bordeaux such as the Jardin Public or the Chartrons district with its market.

How about a visit to Mont Saint Michel?

Accommodation in Bordeaux

Where do we stay to do this tour of what to see in Bordeaux? We stayed at the Best Western Grand Hotel Francais. Very good location and very good service.

►Where to stay in Bordeaux?

We had dinner in different places, one of them was the Brasserie Bordalessa.

If you have several days and want to add more things, a visit to Saint Emilion is a good idea, a medieval village located just 40 km from Bordeaux known for the wines produced in its surroundings. The visit to its abbey and vineyards is well worth spending an extra day in this area.

Always remember, when putting together your vacation, to take out travel insurance. We use Iati, from our link they have a 5% discount on hiring it.

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NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

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La entrada Things to see in Bordeaux se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.

We will take a tour of just a few of its towns and villages. We will start in Beynac et Cazenac, Castlenaud la Chapelle, La Roque Gageac where we will embark on the Dordogne, then we will spend the night in Sarlat la Caneda to continue to Perigueux.

Our starting point was the stunning Rocamadour. If you want to see more about it, we leave it here ►Rocamadour: what to see and how to organize the visit

Beynac et Cazenac

This is a medieval village that we find situated on a steep hill overlooking the Dordogne River.

One of the main attractions of the Dordogne Valley is its rich history. The region has been inhabited by humans since prehistoric times, and numerous archaeological sites and caves with rock art from that time can still be found. There are also many ancient towns and villages that have preserved their traditional architecture and way of life.

Another strong point of the Dordogne Valley is its castles. There are many impressive castles in the region, such as the Château de Beynac, the Château de Castelnaud and the Château des Milandes. Many of them are located on the tops of hills and offer spectacular views of the surroundings.

Beynac is best known for its impressive castle, the Château de Beynac, which is one of the most spectacular castles in the region. Built in the 12th century, the castle sits on a hilltop and offers panoramic views of the valley. Visitors can tour the castle’s rooms, which are furnished with antiques, and explore the gardens and terraces.

A walk through these dream places can also be done on an excursion from Sarlat, note because most of them are in English►Excursion through the villages of the Dordogne

Castelnaud la Chapelle

We head towards Roque Gageac passing first through Castelnaud la Chapelle.

Castelnaud Castle is an impressive castle that sits on top of a hill overlooking the Dordogne River. Built in the 12th century, the castle has been restored and is now a museum that tells the story of warfare in the Middle Ages. Inside the castle, visitors can see a large collection of weapons and armor, as well as a scale model of a medieval siege engine.

But the Dordogne Valley is not just about history and castles. It is also a natural paradise with rich biodiversity and a great variety of landscapes. There are natural parks such as the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park, rivers and lakes for water activities such as canoeing or kayaking, and numerous trails for hiking or cycling.

We rented the car in Paris to tour several places in France and we will return it in Paris at the end of the tour. As I always say, it is generally cheaper to pick up and return in the same place. Check the prices with your dates in the search engine below.

►Find the car for your tour on Discovercars

La Roque Gageac

So now we head to the Roque Gageac to embark on the Dordogne River.

This is a picturesque village situated on the bank of the Dordogne River. It is built on a steep hillside offering stunning views of the valley. La Roque Gageac is known for its traditional limestone houses, narrow cobbled streets and exotic cliff-top garden. There is also a fortress dating back to the 12th century, which used to be a residence of the local nobility.

Embark on barges on the Dordogne

Sarlat la Canéda

We spend the night in Sarlat la Cáneda. The hotel chosen was the Hotel Montaigne. Located just about 150 meters from the historic center, it is a good option to spend a night in this beautiful city.

►Search hotels in Sarlat

If you’re looking for a town with that French charm, with the naturalness of not looking like it’s waiting for a tourist photo, Sarlat-la-Canéda is the perfect choice. This medieval town, located in the heart of the Dordogne Valley, is known for its narrow cobbled streets, historic buildings and rich food culture.

The town of Sarlat-la-Canéda has been declared one of the most beautiful towns in France, and for good reason. Its historic centre features a wealth of stone buildings, mansions and small palaces from the 15th and 16th centuries, as well as Gothic and Renaissance churches. One of the town’s main attractions is the Place de la Liberté, a beautiful square surrounded by historic buildings and outdoor cafés, where you can enjoy local life and savour the food and wine. The market housed in a former church is another new addition.

One of the town’s strong points is its food, and in particular, foie gras. Sarlat-la-Canéda is known for its foie gras production, and you’ll find numerous restaurants serving it. In addition, the town has a weekly food market, where you can find fresh, local produce, such as truffles, mushrooms, fruit and vegetables, as well as regional wine and cheese.

In the morning we find the Sarlat market, on Saturday mornings Sarlat dawns with a market in its streets, in the historic area.

The charm of walking through its streets is something that we will not forget, those things that are out of the ordinary things that visitors do and that turn out to have a very particular charm.

Olives, cheeses, fruits and vegetables were in those stalls tempting everyone who passed by. The truth is that it was very lazy to leave but other destinations awaited us.

Périgueux

We will continue our route to Périgueux, a historic city located in the Dordogne department, in the New Aquitaine region, in the southwest of France. The city has a long history dating back to Roman times, and boasts a rich architecture and culture.

One of the main attractions of Périgueux is its historic centre, which features numerous old buildings, narrow cobbled streets and picturesque squares. The historic centre of the town is dominated by the Saint-Front Cathedral, an impressive Romanesque church built in the 12th century that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The cathedral is known for its five domes and its impressive architecture.

From here we would continue our trip to another French city, but that will be for the next post.

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NOTE: The information in this article is based on our own experience, being totally objective. This article contains affiliate links

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La entrada Dordogne Valley se publicó primero en Europa acompañada.