14 Days in Western France
Day 1
Nantes
 
Start your journey in Nantes with a visit to the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, where history unfolds as you explore the fortress and its museum. Next, embrace your inner child at Les Machines de l'île, a fascinating blend of art and engineering featuring giant mechanical structures. Finish your day at the Jardin des Plantes, a beautiful botanical garden that provides a serene retreat with its lush landscapes and exotic plant collections.
Château des Ducs de Bretagne
Les Machines de l'île
Jardin des Plantes
Day 2
Angers
 
Start your day in Angers at the Château d'Angers, an impressive fortress with a rich history and the famous Apocalypse Tapestry. Following your castle visit, discover the Cointreau Distillery to learn about the fascinating process of creating this iconic orange liqueur, and enjoy a tasting session. Finish your day exploring Terra Botanica, a unique botanical theme park that combines fun and education about plants and nature.
Château d'Angers
Cointreau Distillery
Terra Botanica
Day 3
Saumur
 
In Saumur, start with a visit to the stunning Château de Saumur, where you can explore its museum and enjoy panoramic views of the Loire River. Next, discover the Cadre Noir, the esteemed French National Riding School, where you can witness incredible equestrian performances. Finally, indulge in a wine tasting at Maison Ackerman, learning about the history of sparkling wine production while savoring their exquisite offerings.
Château de Saumur
Cadre Noir
Maison Ackerman
Day 4
La Rochelle
 
In La Rochelle, start at the picturesque Vieux Port, where you can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere and fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. Next, explore the Musée Maritime, learning about the region's naval history through its floating museum and exhibits. Finally, delve into the underwater world at Aquarium La Rochelle, where you can marvel at diverse marine life and engage with educational displays.
Vieux Port
Musée Maritime
Aquarium La Rochelle
Day 5
Saint-Martin-de-Ré
 
(La Rochelle)
Spend your day on Île de Ré, starting at the Phare des Baleines lighthouse for stunning ocean views. Next, relax at Plage de la Conche des Baleines, enjoying the sun and surf at one of the island's beautiful beaches. Finally, explore the charming Village de Saint-Martin-de-Ré, where you can discover local history, restaurants, and shops around its picturesque harbor.
Phare des Baleines
Plage de la Conche des Baleines
Village de Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Day 6
Bordeaux
 
Explore the vibrant city of Bordeaux, starting at the elegant Place de la Bourse and its iconic Water Mirror. Visit La Cité du Vin to learn about wine's history and culture, enjoying interactive exhibits and tastings. Finally, venture to the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, where you can wander through its charming streets and enjoy local wine tastings against a backdrop of breathtaking vineyards.
Place de la Bourse
La Cité du Vin
Saint-Émilion Village
Day 7
Bordeaux
 
Revisit La Cité du Vin to deepen your appreciation for wine culture with further tasting experiences and exhibitions. Next, explore the creative space of Darwin Ecosystem, where sustainability and innovation thrive. Conclude your day at the stunning Saint-Michel Basilica, taking in beautiful architecture and panoramic city views from the bell tower.
La Cité du Vin
Darwin Ecosystem
Saint-Michel Basilica
Day 8
Biarritz
 
Head to Biarritz, starting with a visit to the scenic Rocher de la Vierge, where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views. Next, delve into the Musée de la Mer, where you can observe diverse marine life and engage with interactive exhibits. Finish your day at the renowned Plage de la Côte des Basques, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and soaking up the coastal atmosphere.
Rocher de la Vierge
Musée de la Mer
Plage de la Côte des Basques
Day 9
Bayonne
 
(Biarritz)
Begin your day in Bayonne with a visit to the impressive Cathédrale Sainte-Marie, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and history. Afterward, indulge in sweet delights at Chocolaterie Cazenave, famous for its hot chocolate and artisanal treats. End the day at the Musée Basque et de l'Histoire de Bayonne, where you can explore the rich cultural heritage of the Basque Country.
Cathédrale Sainte-Marie de Bayonne
Chocolaterie Cazenave
Musée Basque et de l'Histoire de Bayonne
Day 10
Pau
 
Experience Pau by visiting the historic Château de Pau, the birthplace of King Henry IV, and enjoy its royal legacy and stunning mountain views. Next, stroll along Boulevard des Pyrénées, a lovely promenade filled with cafes and shops, offering scenic outlooks. Finally, explore the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau, where you can admire artworks from prominent artists throughout history.
Château de Pau
Boulevard des Pyrénées
Musée des Beaux-Arts de Pau
Day 11
Lourdes
 
Begin your day in Lourdes at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a powerful pilgrimage site where many seek healing and peace. Continue to the Grotte de Massabielle, the heart of the sanctuary, where significant spiritual experiences take place. End your day at the Château Fort de Lourdes, where history meets stunning landscape views of the town and surrounding area.
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes
Grotte de Massabielle
Château Fort de Lourdes
Day 12
Toulouse
 
Dive into Toulouse by visiting the stunning Basilique Saint-Sernin, an architectural marvel and a testament to the city’s history. Then, learn about space at Cité de l'Espace, an interactive museum that offers engaging exhibits and planetarium shows. Finally, experience the local flavor at Marché Victor Hugo, bustling with fresh produce, regional dishes, and a lively atmosphere perfect for tasting and socializing.
Basilique Saint-Sernin
Cité de l'Espace
Marché Victor Hugo
Day 13
Carcassonne
 
(Toulouse)
Begin your day in Carcassonne with a visit to the stunning fortified city, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with medieval architecture. Next, explore the Château Comtal, where you can learn more about the region’s history and enjoy panoramic views from its towers. End the day with a relaxing walk along the Canal du Midi, appreciating its beautiful surroundings and the tranquility of this historic waterway.
Cité de Carcassonne
Château Comtal
Canal du Midi
Day 14
Toulouse
 
Conclude your exploration of Toulouse by wandering its charming streets to find last-minute treasures in boutiques and enjoy a final taste of local cuisine. Reflect on your journey and the diverse experiences that have enriched your travels throughout France. As your trip comes to an end, take a moment to cherish the memories created and the beauty discovered along the way.
Final exploration or shopping in Toulouse