The Lost Generation-Inspired Itinerary to France
It’s not always the locals who make history and shape culture. Sometimes it’s the expats. And the Lost Generation is a prime example of how a group of expats, namely American, made their mark on Paris. From F. Scott Fitzgerald to Gertrude Stein, these writers migrated to Paris and developed this decorated literary era during the Roaring 20s. From Paris to the French Riviera, there’s a historical treasure hunt waiting for those wanting to trace the steps of the Lost Generation.
The Lost Generation-Inspired Itinerary to France
What is the Lost Generation?
We owe this label to Gertrude Stein but must thank Ernest Hemingway for popularizing the term “Lost Generation,” per Britannica. The story goes that Stein overheard this term “une génération perdue” from a garage owner in France and clearly didn’t forget that encounter. “Lost Generation refers to a group of (mostly, though not exclusively) American writers and thinkers who found themselves disillusioned with and cast adrift from post-war American society during the 1920s,” says Catherine Dent, “often settling in Paris where they pursued more artistically liberated lifestyles.” Beyond Stein and Hemingway, this group also included names such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, E.E. Cummings, and Pablo Picasso.
Paris “Lost Generation” Itinerary
“The Lost Generation in Paris” Walking Tour
Trace the steps of some of the biggest names from the Lost Generation on this private walking tour. Get lost in the 5th and 6th arrondissements where expat writers spent time, perhaps drafting or finding inspiration for the next great American novel. From Place de la Contrescarpe to Rue Mouffetard, your guide will share the secrets and stories of the writers who spent time in these neighborhoods. Make a stop at the beloved bookshop Shakespeare and Company, a stone’s throw from Notre Dame. Pick up one of the classics from the Lost Generation. Sip on an espresso at Café de Flore, a hotspot for artists and authors for more than a century. Les Deux Magots, another café in the Saint Germain neighborhood, also welcomed names such as Hemingway and Picasso.
You might also be interested in our article on 5 famous Americans who lived in Paris.
Musée Picasso Paris Visit
Neither American or known for his writing, Pablo Picasso is still associated with the Lost Generation movement. He had a close friendship with Gertrude Stein and was a regular at her literary salon, per Sotheby’s. Find inspiration on this private guided visit of this museum, which boasts more than 5000 pieces.
Cocktail-Making Workshop
From 1920 to 1933, Prohibition reigned in the United States under the 18th Amendment, according to the Federal Judicial Center. Enter the era of speakeasies, bootleggers and the Roaring Twenties. But in France, alcohol wasn’t restricted during the time of the Lost Generation. In this cocktail-making workshop, discover the art of mixology as you craft three different cocktails, alcoholic or not. Our professional bartender will advise on flavor combinations and techniques to master your cocktail.
Chanel Brand Historical Walking Tour
While the Lost Generation was crafting art on the literary scene, the fashion industry certainly wasn’t sleeping. On this private walking tour, turn back the clock to the Roaring Twenties and discover the legacy of Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. Your guide will meet you at la Place Vendôme in front of the Ritz hotel. You’ll uncover the secrets behind the Rue Cambon, the Parisian address where Coco set up shop in 1918 before moving to the Ritz on the Place Vendôme where she died in 1971.
You might also be interested in our Coco Chanel-inspired itinerary to Paris.
Biarritz “Lost Generation” Itinerary
Biarritz Haute Couture Walking Tour
Nope, it doesn’t all happen in Paris. Pays Basque, or the Basque Country, has long been a coveted destination for travelers and artists from Ernest Hemingway to Jean Cocteau, per AnOther. Even Coco Chanel opened a storefront in Biarritz! On this private walking tour, stroll this oceanside town’s hottest neighborhoods and learn more about its fashion scene. Then, enjoy a privileged moment with a former stylist and fashion model who will share her ins and outs of this southern French gem, its influence during the Roaring Twenties and its cultural legacy.
Private Painting Class
Find your inner artist with a private painting class in Biarritz. After finding inspiration from Pablo Picasso and other artists, try your hand on the canvas. This 2.5-hour class will be a delight, no matter your level.
Antibes “Lost Generation” Itinerary
Picasso Museum in Antibes
It’s not hard to imagine why artists like Pablo Picasso found inspiration on the French Riviera. In the 1960s, the Grimaldi Castle was transformed into a museum in Picasso’s namesake, according to the town’s tourism website. The museum boasts a wide variety of modern art and features various artists.
National Picasso Museum in Vallauris
Yes, a third Picasso museum! Picasso painted a mural titled La Guerre et la Paix, which translates to “war and peace,” in a Romanesque chapel. “This work, created specifically for the space, condemns the horrors of war with passion and inventiveness, and testifies to the artist’s commitment to peace,” according to the museum website.
Where to Stay in France
Hôtel Ritz in Paris
Really in the mood to relive the Lost Generation era? Then a stay at this five-star hotel is a must. Right off the Place du Vendôme, this hotel dedicated several suites to a handful of American writers. Marked with rare photos of the author and a hearty book collection, the Hemingway suite overlooks the garden and offers its own bar. Or perhaps, you’re a Gatsby fan; book its F. Scott Fitzgerald suite, where you can revisit this page-turner with Daisy and Nick Carraway.
Hôtel du Palais in Biarritz
We have a hunch that you won’t be disappointed with a stay at this five-star hotel. Hôtel du Palais formerly served as the residence for Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie and even hosted Ernest Hemingway. Casual, right? This Biarritz pearl offers 86 rooms and 56 suites and excellent access to its Atlantic Ocean views.
The “Lost Generation” era of literary masterpieces blossomed in France. This ragtag bunch of expats left a veritable mark on the cultural scene in France and beyond. Feeling inspired by Midnight in Paris? Contact one of our travel specialists today to plan a fabulous trip France. You might also like: Paris in Style: A Luxury Escape of Art, History & Taste or Discovering the wonders of the Basque Country.