The concept could be daunting if you’ve never been to Europe on a train. Train travel across Europe is simple and efficient. It’s among the most efficient ways to travel through Europe, which is especially relevant in France.
You can visit some of the most beautiful places in France via train. If you’re visiting France by train for the first time, this is our route for those new to the train!
The train station is in France.
Let’s select the standard option of seven days in France. That’s the amount of time travelers need to discover!
DAYS 1-3: BORDEAUX AND PARIS
- Start your journey in Bordeaux, one of the more romantic cities located in France. Bordeaux is renowned for its breathtaking surrounding of vineyards and castles, so you can begin your journey with a bang!
Be sure to visit Cathedrale Saint-Andre for the intricate architectural design and fascinating historical background. Then, move towards Place de la Bourse, the most beautiful square, perfectly capturing the elegance of 18th-century neoclassical architecture and art.
If you want to see an example of French Gothic, there is no reason to skip visiting Basilique Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site from the 14th century. It was also one of the significant points on the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail.
We recommend taking a day and a half in Bordeaux or at least one full day!
- After a memorable trip here After a fantastic journey, hop on your Bordeaux from Paris train for a whole day and an hour in the capital of France.
If you have time you’ve got it is recommended to visit the famous landmarks of Paris to discover the essence of Paris!
Begin by visiting the Louvre, with one of the largest collections of art pieces worldwide. It’s among the most visited tourist attractions in Paris. Keep this in mind. However, it can take a while to enter. So plan your visit according to your needs!
It is also a good idea to visit the Eiffel Tower. And If you’d rather stay on the ground instead of climbing to the top, then at a minimum, you should have a picnic nearby! The iconic structure is the most well-known landmark in the United States, so avoiding it would be a sin.
A few other must-sees are here, including The Notre Dame Cathedral and Arc de Triomphe. Be careful not to take your time. Take your time and enjoy the wonder and beauty of the city. You can also enjoy lunch at a beautiful café in the city’s central area or stroll through the Champs-Elysees.
DAYS 4-5: MONTPELLIER AND MARSEILLE
- After a 3 1/2 hour train ride, reach the beautiful city of southern France close to the Mediterranean Sea.
Montpellier is one of the top universities worldwide and the oldest medical school in the world, which remains in good condition. Montpellier was also important during the Middle Ages and the Crown of Aragon. Today, Montpellier is dripping in historical significance and a clear signpost of the dramatic events over the decades.
Stroll towards Place de la Comedie and L’Ecusson, The large public square in the city’s center. This square is one of the most extensive pedestrian spaces in Europe and is where there is a theater, Opera House, multiple cafés and restaurants, and lots of local Frenchmen taking a break from their work.
We also suggest going to Musee Fabre to see the finest art and Cathedrale Saint-Pierre for its impressive Gothic architecture!
After a full day, the time has come to take the train back to Marseille.
- After a few minutes, open your eyes and take in the beauty in Provence, Marseille.
The second-most populous and oldest city in France, Marseille is an area with a lot of character and is highly vibrant in its activities.
Stroll through Old Port to see the most crucial trading areas that have been active for more than two millennia and quays with broad promenades and warehouses from the past. Afterward, you can look around Basilique Notre Dame de la Garde and the Museum of History of Marseille.
If the timing is good, we suggest you visit Calanques National Park for a glimpse of the natural side of the city as well as the suburbs to the east and south.
