5-Day Paris, Normandy, and Loire Valley Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Centre Pompidou, home to one of Europe's most important collections of modern art. The building itself is an architectural marvel and offers panoramic views of Paris from its rooftop terrace. After exploring the museum, enjoy a coffee at a nearby café.

Spend your afternoon at Palais Royal. The beautiful gardens and historic arcades provide a peaceful retreat in the heart of the city. For lunch, dine at Bistrot Paul Bert, renowned for its classic French bistro fare.

Conclude your day with an evening visit to Sainte Chapelle. This stunning Gothic chapel is famous for its magnificent stained glass windows that create a breathtaking light show as the sun sets. For dinner, head to L'Ambroisie, one of Paris's top-rated restaurants offering exquisite French cuisine.

Take an early train from Paris to Normandy. Start your exploration with a visit to Mont Saint-Michel, one of France's most iconic landmarks. The island commune is known for its stunning medieval architecture and breathtaking views.

After visiting Mont Saint-Michel, head over to Bayeux to see the famous Bayeux Tapestry. This remarkable piece of embroidery tells the story of William the Conqueror's invasion of England in 1066.

Spend your evening in Caen exploring its historic sites such as Caen Castle and Abbey of Saint-Étienne before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant.

Travel from Normandy to Loire Valley early in the morning. Begin your day with a visit to Château de Chambord, one of the most recognizable castles in France due to its distinctive French Renaissance architecture.

Continue your castle tour with Château de Chenonceau which spans across River Cher making it unique among Loire Valley castles.

End your day by visiting Amboise where you can explore Château d'Amboise followed by dinner at one charming local restaurants.

Start your final day with a visit to the Château de Villandry, renowned for its stunning Renaissance gardens. Spend the morning wandering through the meticulously maintained grounds, which include ornamental flower gardens, vegetable gardens, and water gardens. The peaceful ambiance and beautiful scenery make it a perfect spot for a relaxing morning.

In the afternoon, head to Château de Cheverny, another magnificent castle in the Loire Valley. Known for its classical architecture and richly furnished interiors, this château offers a glimpse into aristocratic life in France. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café before exploring the castle's extensive grounds and hunting museum.

Conclude your trip with an evening visit to Château de Blois. This château is unique for its combination of Gothic, Renaissance, and Classical architecture. As you explore its grand halls and chambers, you'll learn about the fascinating history of French royalty who once resided here. For dinner, dine at one of Blois' charming local restaurants to savor traditional French cuisine before heading back.