Touring France by train : the Grand Loop

DAY 1: PARIS - REIMS (45 min): Champagne and coronation (45 min)

Additional stay in Paris: upon request.
Begin your journey touring France by train with a departure from Paris to Reims.
After a quick train ride (45 min), you arrive in the heart of the Champagne region. Reims, situated in the Grand Est region, is renowned for its Gothic cathedral and its role in the coronation of French kings. It is also the heart of the prestigious Champagne wine region.
Visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Reims, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where 33 French kings were crowned.
Explore the Palais du Tau, the former palace of the archbishops, featuring tapestries and historical relics tied to royal coronations.
Overnight in Reims: Hotel Continental 4* or similar.

DAY 2: REIMS - STRASBOURG (2h): Gothic splendor

After breakfast, you will be taken care of by your private guide, who will take you to discover the beautiful wine region.
Discover the daily life of a winemaker in a Premier Cru village in the Montagne de Reims. Visit the press house, the winery, the cellar, and take part in an unforgettable tasting! (Included - private tours available) You are then dropped off directly at the station, from where you can take the tramway to the TGV station. 

In the early afternoon, board your train to Strasbourg (2h)
Stroll through the city center and discover the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, an impressive Gothic masterpiece!
Inside, admire the astronomical clock, the result of collaboration between mathematicians and artisans. Every day at 12:30 pm, the clock comes to life with its automatons representing stages of life, apostles, and a rooster, while the Pillar of Angels illustrates the Last Judgment.
Overnight at the hotel in Strasbourg (B) - Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection, or similar

DAY 3: STRASBOURG: Charm of "Petite France"

Free day dedicated to personal exploration.
Join a guided tour of the city, walk through its streets, marvel at its magnificent cathedral, observe its diverse architecture, and learn about the people who shaped it and contributed to its influence.
Next, wander through the Petite France district, stroll along the quays, and admire the canals and typical Alsatian houses.
Overnight at the hotel in Strasbourg (B) - Maison Rouge Strasbourg Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection, or similar

DAY 4: STRASBOURG - LYON (4h): History and hidden passages

Your train journey through France continues to Lyon.
Lyon is a city rich with over 2,000 years of history and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll enjoy the Lyon City Card, which provides access to around thirty museums and public transport.
Visit Vieux Lyon, explore the traboules – these narrow, secret passageways are a unique architectural feature in France. Join a guided tour of the city to relive its evolution over time.
For an unbeatable view of the city, take the funicular to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Overnight at the hotel in Lyon (B) - Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery Hotel Collection or similar
Optional: Guided tour of Lyon.

DAY 5: LYON: Culinary delights 

After breakfast, head out to explore the banks of the Saône and Rhône rivers, which have been beautifully landscaped. A cruise is included in your city card.
Les Halles Paul Bocuse immerse you in Lyon’s gastronomic universe—sample regional products and meet passionate artisans. Take the opportunity to enjoy lunch there (on request)
In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Fine Arts, often nicknamed the "Little Louvre" due to the richness of its collections.
Overnight at the hotel in Lyon (B) - Hotel Carlton Lyon - MGallery Hotel Collection or similar
Optional: Food tour or meal at a "bouchon," a traditional restaurant.

DAY 6: LYON - AVIGNON (1h10): Medieval wonders

You leave Lyon in the morning to arrive in Avignon for lunch.
Avignon is a must-see city, rich with exceptional historical and cultural heritage. In the 14th century, it was the center of Christianity, evident today in the majestic Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe, and the ramparts encircling the old town.
The city pass gives you access to numerous key monuments and public buses.
Visit the Palais des Papes, which served as the papal residence in the 14th century. The palace embodies the power of the papacy, which relocated to Avignon due to troubles in Rome. It became the center of Christianity for several years. Admire the panoramic view from the ramparts.
Overnight at the hotel in Avignon (B) - Hotel De Cambis 4* or similar

DAY 7: AVIGNON: Provencal charm

The Pont Saint-Bénézet, better known as the Pont d'Avignon, is one of Avignon’s most famous symbols, thanks to a popular French song. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll be surprised to see that it leads nowhere!
Wander around and admire the panorama of the city.
For your last dinner in Avignon, treat yourself to a local Provençal restaurant.
Overnight at the hotel in Avignon (B) - Hotel De Cambis 4* or similar

DAY 8: AVIGNON - MARSEILLE (35 min): The Mediterranean Coastline

You leave Avignon, and in just 35 minutes, your train journey through France brings you to Marseille, a historic city on the French coastline. Drop off your luggage at the hotel and get ready to explore.
Marseille, France's oldest city, is a vibrant Mediterranean hub known for its historic Old Port, stunning coastal scenery, and rich cultural diversity. Its iconic landmarks include the Basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde and the colorful Le Panier district.
Overnight at the hotel in Marseille (B) - Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux-Port – MGallery or similar

DAY 9: MARSEILLE: stunning views

Stroll around the Old Port, visit the Soap Museum, and pick up some Marseille souvenirs.
Climb to Notre-Dame de la Garde for a panoramic view of the city.

You can reach Aix-en-Provence from Marseille in just 30 minutes, discovering a charming city known for its elegant architecture, vibrant markets, and connection to the artist Paul Cézanne.

The Calanques of Marseille are a natural wonder nestled between Marseille and Cassis. This exceptional and unique landscape is a must-see in Marseille! Treat yourself to a cruise through the calanques.
Overnight at the hotel in Marseille (B) - Grand Hotel Beauvau Marseille Vieux-Port – MGallery or similar

DAY 10: MARSEILLE - CARCASSONNE (3h): step into the Middle Ages

Your rail journey through France continues as you board an Intercités train to reach Carcassonne (3h).
Private transfer from the station to your hotel located in the old city.
Carcassonne is an iconic city in southern France, known for its perfectly preserved medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Dominated by impressive ramparts and 52 towers, it offers a unique immersion into medieval history.
Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit the Comtal Castle, and discover the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire.
Overnight at the hotel in Carcassonne (B) - Hôtel Le Donjon - Coeur de la Cité Médiévale or similar

DAY 11: CARCASSONNE - BORDEAUX (3h20): Wine and Elegance

Early departure for Bordeaux by train.
During this journey, you’ll travel through Provence, Occitanie, and Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Arrival in the early afternoon. Check-in at the hotel.
Bordeaux, nicknamed the "Pearl of Aquitaine," is an elegant city situated at the heart of one of the world’s most renowned wine regions. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it enchants visitors with its neoclassical architecture, its quays along the Garonne River, and its iconic Water Mirror.
Overnight at the hotel in Bordeaux (B) - Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton or similar

DAY 12: BORDEAUX: Wine culture

Discover the city. Stroll through the Saint-Pierre district.
Explore the historic center, full of treasures like Place de la Bourse, Saint-André Cathedral, or the Porte Cailhau. As the world’s wine capital, Bordeaux offers a unique experience through its cellars, wine bars, and the immersive Cité du Vin museum dedicated to this ancient art.
Overnight at the hotel in Bordeaux (B) - Marty Hotel Bordeaux, Tapestry Collection by Hilton or similar

DAY 13: BORDEAUX - TOURS (3h20): Villages and castles of the Loire Valley

Leave Bordeaux aboard a regular train to reach Tours.
Drop off your luggage at the hotel reception located in the city center.
Begin your visit at Place Plumereau, the heart of Old Tours. This district offers a dive into history with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. Take your time to enjoy this medieval atmosphere before visiting Saint-Gatien Cathedral.
Discover the Museum of Fine Arts nearby, housing collections from Antiquity to modern art.
Overnight at the hotel in Tours (B) - Oceania L'Univers Tours or similar
Optional: Excursion by car with a guide to the Château de Villandry. This château is renowned for its magnificent gardens.

DAY 14: TOURS: Leonardo da Vinci and Renaissance Castles

Dedicate this day to discovering castles.

During your stay, enjoy a castle pass that grants you access to three of the Loire Valley’s most iconic châteaux:

• Château de Chenonceau – Known as the “Ladies’ Castle,” this architectural gem gracefully spans the River Cher and boasts beautifully furnished rooms, gardens, and a rich history shaped by remarkable women.
• Château d’Amboise – Once a royal residence, this château offers panoramic views over the Loire River and is the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.
• Château de Chambord – A masterpiece of French Renaissance architecture, famous for its impressive scale, vast park, and unique double-helix staircase inspired by Leonardo da Vinci.

Take a morning train to the Château d’Amboise and Clos Lucé. Perched on a promontory, it offers a breathtaking view of the Loire River. Discover its royal halls, gardens, and the chapel where Leonardo da Vinci rests.
Continue your visit to Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci's last residence. This charming place displays numerous models of his inventions and provides an immersive experience into his world.
Overnight at the hotel in Tours (B) - Oceania L'Univers Tours or similar
Optional: Full-day excursion by car with a guide to Amboise and Blois.
Optional: Loire Valley wine tasting : Enjoy a guided wine tasting experience in the Loire Valley, sampling some of the region's finest wines, including crisp whites and flavorful reds, in a picturesque vineyard setting.

DAY 15: TOUR - PARIS (1h20)

Return to Paris and end your rail tour across France.
Additional nights, flights, or train departures from Paris are available upon request.

Regular French Train

• Paris > Reims (46 min) - TGV*
• Reims > Champagne-Ardenne Tgv >Strasbourg (2h) - TGV*
• Strasbourg > Lyon (4h) - TGV*
• Lyon > Avignon (1h09) - TGV*
• Avignon > Marseille (35 min) – TGV*
• Marseille > Carcassone (3h05) - Intércités**
• Carcassone > Bordeaux (3h19) - Intercités**
• Bordeaux > Saint-Pierre-Des-Corps > Tours (1h58) – TGV* 
• Tours > Paris (1h23) – TGV*

 This train tour in France allows you to explore beautiful French cities while experiencing the country’s diverse train services:

• *TGV (High-Speed Train): One of the fastest trains in the world, connecting major cities like Paris, Lyon, and Reims with speed, modern comfort, and onboard amenities.
• **Intercités (Long-Distance Train): A slower pace, offering a relaxed journey through scenic landscapes to historic destinations like Carcassonne and Bordeaux.
• ***TER (Regional Train): The perfect way to travel like a local, reaching smaller towns and iconic spots like the Loire Valley’s castles.

An exceptional way to combine comfort, efficiency, and the charm of exploring France by train.

Departure :

Travel period: all year round.

PRICES - Touring France by train

• Price in double/twin room : from €3,030 / person

Departure point: Paris (other cities on request)
End point: Paris(other cities on request)

INCLUDED

• Train tickets and reservations in 2nd class
• The listed 4* hotels or similar
• Breakfasts
• Round-trip private transfer in Carcassonne (from the station to your hotel located in the heart of the old city)
• Private transfer in Tour (from the station to the hotel)
• Guided group visit of a local winery with wine tasting (D2)
• City Pass in Lyon (Lyon City Card D4-5) and Avignon (D6-7)
• Guided tour (max 2h) in english in : Strabourg (D3)
• Pass including entry to three castles: Chenonceau, Amboise, and Chambord
• English-speaking assistance from the Discovery Trains team
• Electronic version of the road book

NOT INCLUDED

• International flights and visas
• 1st class train tickets
• Car transfers to train stations except in Carcassonne & Tours (The proposed hotels are located within a 15-minute walk from the train stations)
• Printed road book sent by post