Setting out on a captivating road trip from Cannes to Paris, travelers can enjoy the enchanting landscapes and tantalizing flavors of the French Riviera and Provence. This 2-day itinerary promises a delightful journey, with stops in Nice, Lyon, and the City of Lights. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast or a scenic lover, this itinerary offers an unforgettable experience that’s sure to leave you craving more.
Key Points
- Set out on a 2-day road trip from the French Riviera in Cannes to the iconic city of Paris, covering approximately 1000 km.
- Explore the picturesque Riviera and Provence regions, stopping in Nice for local wine and cuisine, and Lyon for sightseeing.
- Discover the well-preserved Renaissance-era Old Town of Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and indulge in the city’s exceptional culinary offerings.
- Arrive in Paris in the late evening, with the opportunity to explore nearby cafes, bars, and unwind at a centrally located hotel.
- Prepare to discover the iconic sights and attractions of the bustling French capital at your leisure the following day.
Overview of the Road Trip
This 2-day road trip from Cannes to Paris offers travelers a chance to experience the scenic beauty of the French Riviera and Provence.
Priced from $64.17 per group of up to 10 people, the tour allows for flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Lasting 7 days, the English-language private tour departs from Cannes at 11 am and arrives in Paris overnight on the following day.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy optional stops in Nice, Lyon, and iconic Parisian locations featured in the film "Paris Can Wait."
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Lyon.
Starting Point: Cannes
The road trip begins in Cannes, a glamorous coastal city along the French Riviera. This vibrant destination serves as the starting point for your 2-day adventure to Paris.
From Cannes, you’ll journey through the picturesque countryside, making stops in Nice and Lyon before arriving in the City of Lights. The drive covers approximately 1000 km (620 miles) and takes around 10 hours in total.
Your first optional stop is in Nice, where you can explore the local wine and regional cuisine. This laidback start sets the tone for the scenic and culinary-focused road trip ahead.
Exploring the Riviera and Provence
After departing Cannes, the road trip winds through the picturesque Riviera and Provence regions.
The first optional stop is in Nice, where travelers can sample local wines and regional cuisine.
The next key stop is in Lyon, where sightseeing lasts around 2 hours.
The route showcases scenic views of lavender fields, charming villages, and landscapes reminiscent of impressionist art.
Travelers can explore Roman sites and national parks along the way.
The electronic brochure provides details on historical attractions, dining options, and a suggested itinerary to make the most of the journey through these beautiful southern French regions.
Discovering Lyon
As travelers continue their journey northward, they’ll discover the historic city of Lyon. This vibrant metropolis offers a wealth of experiences:
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Explore the city’s well-preserved Renaissance-era Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its narrow streets and stunning architecture.
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Indulge in the local cuisine, known for its exceptional quality and variety, from traditional bouchons to Michelin-starred establishments.
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Visit the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a magnificent 19th-century church that offers panoramic views of the city.
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Stroll along the banks of the Rhône and Saône rivers, taking in the scenic beauty and lively waterfront.
Arrival in Paris
Travelers will now make their way to the final destination of the road trip – the iconic city of Paris. After an approximately 10-hour drive from Lyon, they’ll arrive in Paris at night. The last leg of the journey will take them through picturesque French countryside before reaching the bustling capital.
| Arrival Time | Accommodation | Evening Activities |
| ———— | ————- | —————— |
| Late evening | Hotel in the | • Explore nearby |
| | city center | cafes and bars |
| | | • Unwind at the |
| | | hotel |
With the iconic sights of Paris awaiting, travelers can look forward to a fulfilling end to their road trip adventure.
- 1 or 2-Hour Pedicab Tour of Lyon
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Culinary Highlights
Throughout the journey, travelers can indulge in the rich culinary delights that France is renowned for.
Travelers can indulge in the rich culinary delights that France is renowned for throughout the journey.
The itinerary highlights several must-try dishes and drinks:
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Savor local wines from the Rhône Valley, including the renowned Côtes du Rhône.
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Enjoy regional specialty dishes such as ratatouille, bouillabaisse, and Lyonnaise salad.
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Indulge in artisanal cheeses, including Brie, Roquefort, and Comté.
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Sip on classic French cocktails like Kir Royale or Pastis, complementing the flavors of the local cuisine.
These culinary experiences will heighten the road trip’s overall charm and bring the story of "Paris Can Wait" to life.
Optional Add-Ons
Alongside the core road trip itinerary, travelers can choose from a selection of optional add-ons to further enhance their experience.
For an additional fee, a guide can accompany the group, providing on-site commentary and insights. A picnic basket is available for the first stop, allowing travelers to savor local delicacies in a scenic setting.
Plus, the tour can be extended to include more sightseeing opportunities and a slower pace. With these flexible options, travelers can customize their journey to suit their preferences and make the most of their time exploring the Riviera and Provence regions.
Important Considerations
Since this is a self-guided road trip, participants must have a valid driver’s license.
Here are 4 important considerations to keep in mind:
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Plan ahead for car rental – book in advance to secure the best rate and availability.
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Bring essential supplies like water and snacks to avoid unnecessary stops.
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Respect the law – no intoxication is allowed while driving.
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Arrive in Nice a day early for an optional orientation meeting to get the most out of the experience.
Ask Away
Can I Request a Different Start Location for the Road Trip?
Yes, you can request a different start location for the road trip. The tour provider allows flexible booking, so you can reserve the tour and start from a location convenient for you.
Is There an Option to Have a Guide Accompany Us on the Trip?
Yes, the tour offers an optional guide for an additional fee. The guide can accompany travelers throughout the trip, providing insights and assistance along the way to enhance the overall experience.
Are Any Child-Friendly Activities Included in the Itinerary?
The road trip itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention child-friendly activities. However, visitors can explore picturesque towns, historical sites, and scenic landscapes, which may appeal to families. Additional activities can be added for a customized, child-friendly experience.
Can We Extend the Duration of the Road Trip Beyond 2 Days?
Yes, the tour can be extended beyond 2 days. The itinerary notes that additional days can be added for a slower pace and more sightseeing. This provides flexibility to customize the road trip duration.
How Can I Make Any Special Dietary Requests for the Picnic Basket?
Travelers can make special dietary requests for the picnic basket by contacting the tour operator in advance. They’ll need to provide any dietary restrictions or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options, to ensure the basket meets their needs.
Final Words
This enchanting "Paris Can Wait" road trip offers a delightful journey for culinary enthusiasts and scenic lovers alike. Traversing the picturesque French Riviera, Provence, and finally arriving in Paris, travelers can savor local wines, indulge in renowned cuisine, and explore iconic sights – all while immersed in the charming landscapes of France.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tour Reviews in Lyon
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