7-Day Northern France Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 7-day Northern France tour itineraries

Compiled by

MelissaNorthern France travel expert at TourRadar

• 7 Days in Northern France, incl. Saint-Malo and Normandy

  Medieval towns and coastal landmarks line the route from Rennes to Arromanches-les-Bains. Saint-Malo's ramparts, Mont-Saint-Michel's abbey, and Bayeux's cathedral stand proud. WWII history lives at Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer.

  

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  • Day 1

    Rennes

    Begin in Rennes, the capital of Brittany. Plan to arrive before 2 PM to explore the old town's 15th-century timber-framed houses and have time before dinner. The cobblestone streets near Place des Lices make for a perfect first walk around the city.

    
  • Day 2

    Rennes to Dinan

    Start your cycling adventure on the Ille et Rance canal towpath. The flat route is ideal for your first day with no challenging climbs. Bring a light windbreaker since the canal can get breezy. Visit the old abbey in Léhon before continuing to Dinan. In the evening, head to the port area for excellent fresh seafood.

    
  • Day 3

    Dinan to Saint-Malo

    Ride along the River Rance estuary toward the coast, stopping at fishing villages. The route stays mostly flat with a few gentle slopes. Take the shuttle boat from Dinard to Saint-Malo (runs every 30 minutes, €8 one-way). Walk Saint-Malo's 12th-century ramparts at sunset when the old stones take on a golden glow.

    
  • Day 4

    Emerald Coast to Mont-Saint-Michel

    The coastal route takes you through Cancale, known for its oysters. Visit between 11 AM-2 PM when the oyster market is busy. Before reaching Mont-Saint-Michel, check the tide schedule. High tide surrounds the abbey with water, creating stunning photo opportunities in the late afternoon light.

    
  • Day 5

    Bayeux and D-Day Beaches

    Get to Bayeux early to see the famous tapestry before the crowds arrive. The ride to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer is a moving experience. Pack layers for the windy coastal route. As one visitor shared: "The memorial at Omaha Beach is incredibly powerful. Go early morning when it's quiet - the atmosphere is incredibly moving."

    
  • Day 6

    Longues-sur-Mer to Saint Aubin Sur Mer

    Start at the German battery in Longues-sur-Mer when it opens at 9 AM. Cycle through Norman villages with traditional half-timbered houses. Stop in Arromanches to see Churchill's artificial harbor at low tide. The quiet country lanes to Saint Aubin Sur Mer offer a peaceful look at rural Norman life.

    
  • Day 7

    Saint Aubin Sur Mer

    The journey ends after breakfast. Book an afternoon train to Paris to avoid morning crowds. The station is 15 minutes away by taxi.

    

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• 7 Day Loire Valley Itinerary, incl. Blois and Saumur

  The Loire Valley unfolds over 7 days connecting 6 historic cities from Blois to Saumur. Marvel at Renaissance masterpieces like Château de Chambord and Chenonceau, step into Leonardo da Vinci's home at Clos Lucé, and savor guided tastings at prestigious wine estates including Maison Brédif.

  

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  • Day 1

    Blois

    Arrive in Blois by mid-afternoon to walk through the medieval old town. The area around Place Louis XII, with its cobblestone streets, is perfect for a relaxed stroll. Book your hotel near the river if you can - it will make accessing the Loire à Vélo cycling path much easier tomorrow. Most local hotels can help you rent bikes if you need them.

    
  • Day 2

    Blois to Chambord Loop (40km)

    Take the Loire à Vélo path east toward Chambord. You'll ride through Saint-Dyé-sur-Loire on flat terrain with dedicated bike lanes. Visit Château de Chambord in late morning before the big tour buses show up. The route back to Blois goes through the quiet Sologne forest paths. Bring plenty of water and snacks since you won't find many shops between towns.

    
  • Day 3

    Blois to Amboise (45km)

    The riverside route takes you past Chaumont-sur-Loire's castle, which sits high above the Loire. In Amboise, spend your afternoon tasting wines in historic caves paired with local meats and cheeses. If it's been raining, stick to the paved paths between Chaumont and Amboise since the unpaved sections get muddy.

    
  • Day 4

    Amboise to Vouvray & Chinon

    Start your day cycling through Vouvray's hillside vineyards, where you'll spot interesting cave homes built into the rocks. Visit Maison Brédif's 10th-century wine cellars, then take a transfer to Chinon. Stop at Château de Chenonceau, which stretches across the Cher River. The formal gardens are beautiful at sunset.

    
  • Day 5

    Chinon Loop (35km)

    Take it easier today exploring Chinon's vineyards. Ride to Château du Rivau in the morning for great castle photos. The climb back from Cravant les Côteaux can be tough, so try to do it early before it gets too hot.

    
  • Day 6

    Chinon to Saumur (50km)

    Your longest riding day follows the Loire west through small villages. Stop at Candes-Saint-Martin's 12th-century church and Fontevraud Abbey. The final stretch to Saumur includes some uphill riding past ancient homes carved into the limestone cliffs.

  • Day 7

    Saumur

    End your trip in Saumur, known for its grand château and sparkling wine caves. You might want to stay an extra day to explore more wineries or take a hot air balloon ride over the valley.

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• Burgundy & Alsace: Vineyards, Villages & Heritage

  

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  • Dijon France

    22 mi

  • Beaune France

    15 mi

  • Gevrey-Chambertin France

    19 mi

  • Meursault France

    26 mi

  • Dijon France

    35 mi

  • Semur-en-Auxois France

    23 mi

  • Chateauneuf France

    20 mi

  • Dijon France

    152 mi

  • Strasbourg France

    42 mi

  • Eguisheim France

    8 mi

  • Riquewihr France

    35 mi

  • Strasbourg France

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