How to Plan a Two-Week Itinerary For France
Chenonceau Castle · Amboise · Loire Valley
Dreaming of wandering through charming villages, savoring delectable pastries, and gazing upon iconic landmarks? A two-week trip to France offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in rich history, culture, and cuisine…and, of course, French bread. To make the most of your adventure, meticulous planning is essential. In this brief overview, I’ll break down how to plan a two-week trip to France in three months, including links to helpful resources and products.
Month 1: Research and Dream
Destination Selection: Begin by deciding which regions and cities you want to explore. France offers a diverse array of experiences, from the romance of Paris to the rustic charm of Provence. Believe me: you will not be able to see everything (which is why return trips are so much fun to plan). Research popular destinations, cultural attractions, and unique experiences each region has to offer.
Budgeting: Establish a budget for your trip, considering factors such as flights, accommodation, transportation, meals, activities, and souvenirs. This will give you a clear understanding of your spending limits and help you make informed decisions. Be sure to factor in currency exchanges and fees.
Documentation: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your travel dates. If necessary, apply for a visa in advance. Research any vaccination or health requirements and consult your doctor accordingly. Take. Pictures. Of. Everything.
My Holy Grail between the planning phases.
Month 2: Crafting the Itinerary
Itinerary Framework: Outline a rough itinerary for your trip, taking into account the cities you want to visit, the number of days in each location, and the mode of transportation between them. Remember to allocate some flexibility for spontaneous adventures. We rented a car after we departed Paris, and having the flexibility to roam the French countryside was a highlight of our trip. Travel by rail is possible, but you just need to verify station locations and pricing.
Accommodation Booking: Research and book accommodations for each destination. Options range from boutique hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals. Consider locations that offer easy access to major attractions and public transport. I used a Rick Steves guidebook to help me select our hotels, but I also went a bit rogue when I wanted to find something perfect.
Transportation: Based on your itinerary, book your flights to and from France. If you plan to travel within the country, consider purchasing a rail pass for convenience and cost savings. Alternatively, you can rent a car for regions with limited public transportation. Like I said, renting a car was one of the best decisions I made for our travel.
Going on a road trip
Enterprise Rent-A-Car for the win with this beautiful DS Enterprises hatchback.
Month 3: Details and Final Preparations
Detailed Itinerary: Flesh out your itinerary with specific activities, attractions, and restaurants for each day. Prioritize must-see landmarks, cultural events, and local experiences. Remember to leave room for leisurely exploration and downtime. Most restaurants will not book any further than 30 days out.
Cultural Etiquette and Language: Familiarize yourself with French customs and etiquette, as well as a few basic phrases in French. While many people in tourist areas speak English, making an effort to communicate in the local language can enhance your experience. I began using DuoLingo 6 months out from our trip (which 3-4 years of rough high school French in my pocket). Speaking French with the French was probably my favorite part of the trip.
Packing and Essentials: Create a packing list tailored to the weather during your travel dates. Include comfortable walking shoes, versatile clothing, adapters for electrical outlets, and any specific items you may need for activities like hiking or swimming. I brought WAY too many shoes — I probably rotated between by sneakers and Birkenstocks the most.
Health and Safety: Check your travel insurance coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage if needed. Make copies of important documents like your passport and insurance details. Research emergency numbers and local medical facilities at each destination. Also, you might want to consider purchasing an international data plan with your phone company.
The last travel bag you’ll ever need
Cotopaxi’s Allpa 40L is THE bag for your two week France itinerary — period.
Planning a two-week itinerary to France in three months requires thoughtful research, detailed organization, and a touch of spontaneity. By dedicating the first month to research, the second month to crafting your itinerary, and the third month to final preparations, you'll be well-equipped to embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes, rich history, and delightful cuisine that France has to offer.
Bon voyage!
