City, ocean and wine. The southwest of France teems with picturesque landscapes and extraordinary experiences. If you only have 10 days to explore France and want to enjoy both Paris and the southwestern region of France, you can have it all. The southwestern region of France may not get as much limelight as the Riviera, but Bordeaux and the Basque Country need not be overlooked. For travelers looking for under-the-radar yet classic destinations, we’re here to help. We’re rounding up our favorite spots in our 10-day itinerary to Paris, Bordeaux and the Basque Country.
10-Day France Itinerary: Paris, Bordeaux and Basque Country
Paris Itinerary
Start your 10-day journey in France’s capital. With multiple airports and train stations, Paris is easily accessible. And with French Side Travel, we’re happy to handle the details of arrival, pickup and private transfer. You easily could spend months, even years, in this emblematic city, but you can be sure to hit many highlights during three or four days.
During your several days in Paris, you can stroll some of the world’s best museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay. And through French Side Travel, you can enjoy exclusive visits of these museums with private guided tours and family-friendly scavenger hunts. Treat yourself to a decadent meal on a boat ride through the Seine or learn how to make pastries with a French chef.
Macaron-Making Atelier in Paris
Perhaps you’ve tasted one of France’s famed macarons, an almond-flour based pastry resembling a cookie sandwich. But you’re ready to try making them yourself — with the help of a French pastry chef, bien sûr. In this afternoon small-group class, you’ll learn the intricate techniques of making these sweet treats. From making the filling to understanding how to make meringue, you’ll leave this atelier not only filled to your heart’s content but also with the skills to recreate the recipe back home.
Dinner Cruise on the Seine River
Tourists abound in Paris, but see the City of Lights in a unique and exclusive fashion. Spend the evening on the Seine with a panoramic view of Paris over a three-course meal. Marvel at the city of Paris all aglow with a front-row seat.
Bordeaux Itinerary
Nicknamed “Little Paris,” the town of Bordeaux is sure to charm you with its elegant architecture and divine wine culture. Located in southwest France, Bordeaux is a quick two-hour train ride from Paris. It’s also possible to fly from Paris to Bordeaux in about an hour’s time. The city is closely tied to its nearby vineyards and isn’t far from the Atlantic Coast. We recommend spending around three days of your 10-day itinerary through Paris, Bordeaux and Basque Country. This will give you sufficient time to explore downtown Bordeaux and its surrounding villages and vineyards.
Bordeaux Grand Crus Workshop
What’s a Grand Cru? How are they classified? What makes one wine better than another? You may have tasted a Grand Cru but still have questions. With this private workshop, you’ll discover the world of Bordeaux wines and their gradation techniques. From Saint Émilion to Pomerol, you’ll leave with a better understanding of these world-renowned wines, thanks to your oenological expert. Your private workshop will include tastings of three Grand Crus. Santé !
Full-Day Visit to Saint-Émilion and Pomerol
If you’re interested in not just tasting Bordeaux wine but also exploring its terroir, we have you covered at French Side Travel. During your private tour, you’ll discover the Saint-Émilion, Fronsac, and Pomerol appellations. In addition to tasting the Saint Émilion appellation, you will discover its terroir as your driver shows you the region and its vineyards. Begin your day with a visit to the château of a Saint-Émilion grand cru classé producer. Learn all about the six generations of this family-run business and explore the vineyards and underground cellars. Later, indulge in a private tasting featuring Saint-Émilion grand crus, reds from Pomerol, and even a white confidential cuvée.
Basque Country Itinerary
Under-the-radar and coastal, the Basque Country is an essential for your France bucket list. Biarritz is only a 2-hour train ride from Bordeaux. Additionally, Biarritz is home to a small, international airport. This luxurious town is a highly coveted destination and has been for decades; Coco Chanel opened a storefront here in 1915, according to its website. Along with its local wines and quaint towns such as Bayonne, the Basque Country is also known for its surf. Three days in this region will give you time to explore this region.
With French Side Travel, you can visit this region at your own pace. Whether you’d like to bike through Biarritz or try an Espelette chile at its covered market, the choice is yours. Curious about the nearby Landes region with its quaint towns like Dax and Saint-Sever? French Side Travel offers private tours catered to your tastes.
Private Driving Tour to the Basque Countryside
Soak up the sights of the Basque Country by car and learn about the history of this region. Your driver will take you along the coastline from Biarritz as you catch glimpses of the ocean, churches and countryside. Marvel at the views from the village of Arcangues, where you can also enjoy its golf course. Your guide will explain the local history and traditions as you fall in love with the southwest of France.
Private Surfing Class
No need to satisfy yourself with the views of the Atlantic Coast in the Basque Country; dive in head first with a surfing initiation class. French Side Travel offers beginner courses on the Hendaye beach, located near the Spanish border. These waves are calmer and surf-able all year long, and these features make it the perfect place to begin your surfing career.
At the end of your 10-day itinerary, you can take the high-speed train from Biarritz directly to Paris in just four hours. It’s also possible to fly out of the international airports in Bordeaux or Biarritz. Ready to book your trip to Paris, Bordeaux and the Basque Country? Our travel specialists are ready to help you plan the most splendid trip.
You might also be interested in our 10-day itinerary to Paris, Provence and the French Riviera.
Where to Stay in France
Hôtel de Pavie
A bit outside of Bordeaux, Hotel de Pavie is worth the trek. This five-star hotel is located in Saint-Emilion and best be on every wine aficionado’s bucket list. Hotel de Pavie has worn many hats over the years: convent, dance hall and hotel restaurant. No matter your style, this hotel has a variety of rooms and suites located in their Bell Tower, Village and Suite houses. Enjoy a meal at Chef Yannick Alléno’s La Table de Pavie. This Michelin-awarded chef will tempt you with his caviar paired with a smoky eel sauce or roasted pigeon paired with a walnut purée.
Hôtel de Crillon
Indulge in a stay fit for a queen at the Hôtel de Crillon. This elegant five-star hotel boasts 78 rooms and dozens of suites, including designs from Karl Lagerfeld. Treat yourself to a romantic dinner at l’Écrin, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. This hotel overlooks the historic Place de la Concorde.
Looking for more ideas for your 10-day itinerary to Paris, Bordeaux and the Basque Country? You might also be interested in: Elegant Bordeaux & Basque Journey and South West France Culinary and Wine Tour. Need some help personalizing your trip?