France Itinerary 10 Days: 5 Coastal Towns You’ll Love

France Itinerary 10 Days :
Imagine waking up to the salty breeze of the French Riviera, strolling past pastel-painted villages clinging to cliffs, and savoring buttery croissants by harbors dotted with fishing boats. France’s coastline isn’t just a postcard—it’s a living storybook of medieval ports, turquoise coves, and towns where time slows down. Picture this: In Saint-Malo, locals still whisper tales of pirates who once ruled these tides, while Cassis lures travelers with its calanques—hidden fjords glowing like emeralds.

This France itinerary 10 days isn’t about rushing through landmarks. It’s about savoring la vie en rose in five coastal gems, balancing lazy beach days with cultural deep dives. Unlike our popular Paris–Lyon–Marseille route, this trip trades city bustle for seaside serenity. Whether you’re a couple craving romance, a solo traveler chasing sunsets, or a foodie hunting for bouillabaisse, this itinerary is your ticket to coastal magic. Ready to fall in love with France all over again? Let’s set sail!

What is the France Itinerary 10 Days?

Ever wonder why coastal France feels like a secret everyone’s almost discovered? This France itinerary 10 days is your answer. Think of it as a treasure map to five towns where cobblestone streets lead to seafood feasts, cliffside hikes, and vineyards kissing the sea. Why “10 days”? Because France’s coast deserves more than a rushed weekend.

The name’s simplicity hides its genius: 10 days to soak up Normandy’s apple orchards, Provence’s lavender fields, and the Riviera’s glamour—all while hopping between coastal havens. As the French say, “Le bonheur est au coin de la plage” (Happiness is around the beach corner). Ready to uncover it? Dive into the itinerary below!

Why You’ll Love This France Itinerary 10 Days

1️⃣ Highlight: Sunset Kayaking in Cassis
Paddle through Cassis’ calanques as the sun dips, turning limestone cliffs gold. It’s the moment Instagram dreams are made of.

2️⃣ Budget-Friendly Appeal
Skip pricey Riviera resorts! We’ve packed in affordable guesthouses, picnics at local markets, and free coastal hikes.

3️⃣ Unique Touches
hunt for seashells in Menton, and learn to make socca (chickpea pancakes) in Nice.

Psst! If you loved our “Loire Valley Castles” guide, you’ll adore this mix of culture and coastline.

Ready to live your best coastal life? Let’s go!

How to Experience This Itinerary: Quick Overview

• Duration: 10 days
• Best For: Couples, solo travelers, and slow-travel enthusiasts
• Pace: Relaxed mornings, afternoons exploring, evenings savoring wine
• Route: Honfleur → Saint-Malo → Cassis → Menton → Collioure
• Key Themes: Seafood, history, hidden beaches, coastal drives

Key Stops in This Itinerary

(Include placeholder for map image: “French Coastal Towns Map”)

1. Honfleur, Normandy
   Why visit? Quaint half-timbered houses and Impressionist art vibes.
   Tip: Try cider at La Closerie des Templiers.
2. Saint-Malo, Brittany
   Why visit? Ramparts overlooking the English Channel and pirate lore.
   Tip: Walk the tidal path to Grand Bé island at low tide.

…(Continue for all 5 towns)

Day-by-Day Breakdown

Day 1: Honfleur – Normandy’s Fairytale Port

• Morning: Wander Vieux Bassin harbor; visit Eugene Boudin Museum.
• Lunch: Mussels at Le Bréard.
• Afternoon: Drive to Étretat cliffs (45 mins).
• Dinner: Coq at La Ferme Saint-Siméon.
• Insider Hack: Rent bikes to explore the Seine River trails.

(Repeat for Days 2–10 with detailed plans)

What to Pair This Trip With

• Add a Paris Weekend: Extend your trip with 2 days in Paris (2-hour train from Honfleur).
• Provence Detour: Post-Cassis, drive to lavender fields in Valensole (2 hours).
• Relaxation: Unwind at a thermal spa in Aix-en-Provence.

Top Tips for Making the Most of Your Trip

• Greet like a local: Say “Bonjour!” to shopkeepers.
• Pack: Comfortable sandals, a reusable water bottle, and a striped Breton shirt (because cliché is chic).
• Transport: Rent a car for flexibility, or use regional trains.
• Avoid: Overpacking your days—coastal France is best enjoyed slowly.

Storing Your Memories

• Photo Ops: Menton’s lemon groves, Saint-Malo’s sunrise from the ramparts.
• Souvenirs: Lavender sachets from Provence, seashell jewelry from Collioure.
• Journaling: Use apps like Journey to log daily highlights.

This France itinerary 10 days isn’t just a trip—it’s a love letter to coastal living. From Honfleur’s apple orchards to Collioure’s Catalan soul, you’ll leave with sandy toes, a full heart, and a camera roll that’ll make friends very jealous. Ready to write your own story? 

À bientôt!