Ah, Paris. What's not to love? It's easy to get caught up in a certain 'vibe' in the French capital, which is why no Paris itinerary is complete without a few days spent exploring this most alluring of European cities.
Paris alone could easily fill a whole itinerary, but there's more to see! If you want to get to know France beyond the capital, leave the city of lights and wander the countryside.
Stroll through a true Impressionist painting in Giverny and bypass touristy Versailles to see the inspiration for the famous palace in Chantilly. Finally, end your tour of Paris with a glass of bubbles in Reims, the centre of France's Champagne region. O la la!
1 Enjoy café culture and visit museums in Paris
Recommended number of days: 2-3
Writer Ernest Hemingway described Paris as a "movable feast". All the senses are heightened in this magnetic city that attracts millions of visitors every year.
Glamour boulevards are lined with luxury ateliers and famous monuments, while winding cobbled side streets hide small shops and charming cafés. There's so much to see and do here that a stop in Paris should definitely be included in your France itinerary.
When it comes to art and culture, the Louvre cannot be missed. Remember to take your time, as this huge museum can take several days to explore.
When in Paris, don't miss the magnificent Musée d'Orsay, home to works by the great Impressionists such as Monet, Manet and others. After your morning sightseeing, do as the Parisians do and enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the city's many sunny outdoor cafés.
Visit
River Seine
Walk or sail along the river to see the highlights.
Louvre Museum
the world's most famous museum.
Musée d'Orsay
Impressionist houses, works of art in themselves.
Monmart
a favourite neighbourhood for artists and bohemians.
Parking
Porte d'Orléans car park €€€€
maximum height 2,60 m
Catering
Crêperie Josselin €
populiari crêperie, it's worth waiting.
Cafe Loustic €€
Elegant café with pastries.
Epicure at Le Bistro €€€€
3 Michelin stars for Paris. Reservations required.
Accommodation
Camping de Paris €€
close to public transport and places of interest
2 Visit Giverny and step into an Impressionist painting
Recommended number of days: 1
Although Giverny is not on the radar of many travellers, a stop in Giverny is a charming addition to any trip to France. This picture-packed village is particularly inspiring right after a visit to the Musée d'Orsay in Paris.
Claude Monet, one of the most important Impressionist painters, lived and worked here in Giverny for most of his life. Now his historic home and dreamy gardens have been transformed into a museum worth a day trip from Paris.
We recommend leaving the capital early by campervan to give you enough time to get lost in the picturesque village of Živerni.
Of course, a visit to the Claude Monet Foundation is a must, and worth spending a few hours wandering around. Book in advance to secure a guide, or simply go on your own. The knowledgeable curators scattered around the grounds will provide context and witty anecdotes that are sure to impress your friends at future dinner parties.
Visit
Claude Monet Foundation
the historic home and gardens of a famous painter.
Museum of Impressionism
Open March-November History and collections.
Parking
Motorhome Aire Giverny
Free (overnight) parking at the Chemin du Roy roundabout.
Catering
Les Jardins des Plumes €€€
Art Deco restaurant offering à la carte dining.
Accommodation
Château de Bouafles €€
Idyllic campsite near Giverny.
3 Discover Chantilly in lace
Recommended number of days: 1
Depending on your energy level, stay overnight in Giverny or leave after dinner to reach Chantilly in just one hour.
This elegant town, surrounded by the Chantilly Forest, was once home to the Princes of Conde, cousins of the King. Now home to the Château de Chantilly and the Musée Condé, it is a luxurious estate filled with works of art and gardens the size of Versailles.
Chantilly is famous for its many exports, including its signature lace and cream, as well as its long tradition of horse racing. Park your campervan and head straight into town to explore.
Fashion enthusiasts should visit the Musée de la Dentelle to learn about the history and significance of the delicate fabric. For a more active afternoon, try watching a horse race at the famous Chantilly Racecourse.
Visit
Château de Chantilly
a magnificent mansion and gardens, the size of Versailles.
Mūsee de la Dentelle
Learn about lace production and local history.
Parking
2A Rue d'Orgemont Parking €
Conveniently located near the RER station.
Catering
La Vertugadin €€
Chantilly cream, need I say more?
Accommodation
Camping Le Pre des Moines €€
10 minutes' drive from the city centre.
4 Reims - capital of the Champagne region of France
Recommended number of days: 2-3
Although Reims is a completely unofficial "capital", Reims must be added to your Paris itinerary. Park your campervan outside the city and take a taxi or public transport.
You won't want to drive here, as the city is very walkable and there are just too many bubbles!
Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral has been the coronation site of many French kings since the 13th century. The Gothic cathedral also has incredible stained glass windows and interesting sculptures, such as the smiling angel.
Spend at least a full day enjoying one of the famous Champagne houses here, such as Taittinger or Veuve Cliquot.
On the last day, sleep in, have a hearty lunch and maybe take a walk around the city to dust off the cobwebs, before heading back home to Lithuania by camper van in the afternoon.
Visit
Champagne Taittinger
a world-renowned champagne.
Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Visitor Centre
tastings, cellar tours and more.
Reims Notre-Dame Cathedral
Gothic cathedral with incredible stained glass windows.
Parking
Motorhome Aire Reims
free of charge. Parking is inexpensive (overnight) and the centre is within walking distance.
Catering
Le Bocal €€€
A simple seafood restaurant with the catch of the day.
Brasserie du Boulingrin €€
classic French bistro.
Le Millénaire €€€€
"Michelin star in Reims.
Accommodation
Camping Val-de-Vesle €€
close to the city.
