A Romantic French Tapestry: Nice, Paris, Marseille & Lyon in 12 Nights

Upon arrival at Nice Côte d'Azur Airport (NCE), a private transfer will take you to your premium hotel in Nice. Take some time to check in and refresh after your journey. This morning is for settling into your Riviera accommodation and preparing for the days ahead.

Your afternoon is dedicated to exploring Nice's Old Town, known locally as Vieux Nice. This historic quarter features narrow streets and vibrant squares. Wander hand-in-hand through its charming alleys, discovering local shops and cafes at a relaxed pace. Consider visiting Place Giuseppe Garibaldi.

Enjoy a relaxed evening in Nice. Consider a leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, taking in the evening air and coastal views. Choose one of the many local restaurants in Old Town for a romantic dinner, savouring regional French cuisine together.

Start your day with a walk along the Promenade des Anglais, a seven-kilometre beachfront path. This path offers views of the Mediterranean Sea. Afterwards, proceed to the Cours Saleya Flower Market. This market is a vibrant display of flowers and local produce, perfect for a morning visit.

Spend your afternoon at leisure, perhaps considering a sightseeing tour with French Riviera Sightseeing. This agency offers various options to discover more of Nice or nearby coastal areas. Alternatively, revisit parts of Old Town you enjoyed, or relax at a cafe and observe local life.

Enjoy another evening in Nice. You might choose to dine at a restaurant near the Promenade des Anglais, offering sea views. Reflect on your day's experiences, from the vibrant market to the scenic coastal walk, as you enjoy a quiet meal together.

Today, ascend Castle Hill, known as Colline du Château, for elevated views. The ascent can be made by stairs or a lift, offering different perspectives of Nice's Old Town, the Promenade des Anglais, and the coastline. At the top, you will find a park and a waterfall.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon. You could revisit a favourite spot in Old Town or along the Promenade des Anglais. Alternatively, relax at a cafe, savouring French pastries and coffee. This time allows for personal preferences and a relaxed pace before your evening plans.

For your final evening in Nice, choose a special restaurant to enjoy a farewell dinner. Reflect on your romantic Riviera experience, from the panoramic views of Colline du Château to the charming streets of Old Town. Enjoy the culinary delights of the region one last time.

This morning, transfer from Nice to Paris via a high-speed train. The journey covers approximately 933 km and takes about 5.5 to 6 hours, offering views of the French countryside. Upon arrival at your Parisian station, a private transfer will take you to your hotel for check-in.

After checking into your Parisian hotel, take some time to refresh. The afternoon is dedicated to settling into your new surroundings and perhaps a gentle walk in the vicinity of your accommodation. Familiarise yourselves with the charming streets of Paris, taking in the initial atmosphere.

For a romantic evening, visit the iconic Eiffel Tower. It is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM. Witnessing its sparkling lights after sunset is a classic Parisian experience. Consider dining at a nearby bistro afterwards to complete your first day in the city.

Dedicate your morning to the Louvre Museum, one of the world's largest art museums. It is open Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Friday from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Focus on specific wings or key artworks like the Mona Lisa to manage your time effectively.

After your museum visit, head towards the Notre-Dame Cathedral area. The cathedral is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday from 7:50 AM to 7:00 PM and Thursday from 7:50 AM to 10:00 PM. Consider a food tour with Secret Food Tours Paris or Eating Europe Food Tours Paris for a culinary experience.

Enjoy a romantic evening along the Seine River. A leisurely walk along its banks offers beautiful views of Parisian landmarks. Alternatively, consider a Bateaux-Mouches cruise for a different perspective of the city lights. Dine at a riverside restaurant for a memorable experience.

Spend your morning in Montmartre, a historic district. Begin by walking through its distinctive streets, which retain a village-like atmosphere. The main attraction is the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, open daily from 6:30 AM to 10:30 PM, situated at the highest point in Paris, offering panoramic city views.

Continue your Montmartre exploration in the afternoon. Visit Place du Tertre, where artists display their work. You might consider a Free Tour Paris - PARIS STEP BY STEP TOURS or Babylon Tours Paris to gain insights into the district's artistic heritage and history. Enjoy the bohemian spirit.

Enjoy a romantic dinner in Montmartre. The district offers numerous charming restaurants with a cozy ambiance. Reflect on the artistic history and the sacred views you experienced throughout the day. This provides a perfect end to your Parisian Montmartre adventure together.

Begin your day with a high-speed train transfer from Paris to Marseille, a journey of approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. Upon arrival, a private transfer will take you and your partner to your premium hotel for check-in. Settle in and prepare for your afternoon in the city.

Spend your afternoon at the Old Port (Vieux Port), a historical landmark and the vibrant heart of Marseille. Witness the daily rhythm of this iconic harbour, where fishing boats and yachts coexist. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront.

As evening descends, enjoy the lively atmosphere around the Old Port (Vieux Port). Choose one of the many waterside restaurants for a romantic dinner, savouring local Provençal cuisine. Reflect on your journey and the start of your Marseille experience.

Start your day with a visit to Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica, open from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. This grand basilica sits atop Marseille's highest point, offering expansive views. Admire its intricate mosaics and the golden statue of the Virgin Mary by Lequesne.

After your basilica visit, head towards the Old Port (Vieux Port) for coastal exploration. From here, consider a boat trip to Château d'If, a historic island castle. This provides a unique perspective of Marseille's coastline and its maritime history.

Conclude your day back near the Old Port (Vieux Port). Enjoy a relaxed evening meal at a local restaurant, perhaps sampling fresh seafood dishes. Take a leisurely evening stroll along the illuminated waterfront, sharing the city's charm together.

Embrace a relaxed morning with a visit to Le Panier district, Marseille's oldest quarter. Wander through its narrow streets and admire the colourful facades. Discover local artisan shops, offering unique crafts and souvenirs, perfect for a leisurely browse together.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon, perhaps returning to the Old Port (Vieux Port) for a different perspective. You could also find a charming cafe in Le Panier for a coffee or a glass of rosé, simply observing the local Provençal life.

For your final evening in Marseille, choose a special restaurant to enjoy a romantic Provençal dinner. Reflect on your coastal adventures and the charm of the city. Perhaps a final stroll along the Old Port (Vieux Port) under the stars.

Begin your day with a high-speed train transfer from Marseille to Lyon, a journey lasting approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Upon arrival, a private transfer will transport you to your premium hotel. Check in and settle into the gastronomic heart of France.

Begin your exploration of Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon), a charming historic district. Wander through its cobblestone streets and discover the Renaissance architecture. This area, known for its traditional bouchon restaurants, offers a delightful introduction to Lyon's culinary heritage.

Conclude your day with a romantic dinner in Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon). Choose a traditional bouchon to experience authentic Lyonnaise cuisine, known for its rich flavours. Enjoy the evening ambiance of this historic district, a perfect end to your first day.

Dedicate your morning to discovering Lyon's unique 'traboules', the covered passageways found in Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon). These historic routes were once used by silk workers. Navigate these architectural gems, revealing hidden courtyards and secret passages.

In the afternoon, visit Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste, a magnificent church known for its grandeur. Admire its impressive architecture and stained-glass windows. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll to Place Bellecour, one of Europe's largest pedestrian squares, and see the Bartholdi Fountain.

Enjoy a relaxed evening in Lyon. Perhaps revisit Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) for a different dining experience, or explore another district for dinner. Indulge in more Lyonnaise specialties, sharing a quiet, romantic meal together after a day of discovery.

Begin your day by ascending Fourvière Hill for elevated perspectives of Lyon, including the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. At the summit, visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Admire its 19th-century architecture.

Enjoy a leisurely afternoon, perhaps revisiting a favourite spot in Old Lyon (Vieux Lyon) for some last-minute souvenir shopping or a relaxed coffee. Reflect on your journey through France's gastronomic capital. This is a perfect time for quiet moments together.

Conclude your French adventure with a memorable farewell dinner in Lyon. Choose a restaurant that captures the essence of Lyonnaise cuisine, perhaps a Michelin-starred establishment or a beloved local eatery. Toast to your romantic tapestry of French experiences.

Enjoy your final breakfast in Lyon before a private transfer takes you to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS). This comfortable journey ensures a smooth start to your international flight home. Please ensure all personal belongings are accounted for before departure, allowing ample time for check-in procedures.

Your afternoon will be spent in transit, either at Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS) or en route to your next destination. Take this time to relax and reflect on your romantic French tapestry journey, perhaps enjoying a final French coffee before boarding.

The evening concludes your French adventure as you continue your international journey home. Settle into your flight, carrying cherished memories of Nice, Paris, Marseille, and Lyon. This marks the end of your romantic 12-night exploration.