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Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport and take a scenic 45-minute drive to your charming boutique hotel located near the historic Marais district, an area teeming with chic boutiques and Parisian flair. After settling in, step outside and amble down to the banks of the Seine, where you’ll meander along the cobblestone quays, the gentle river reflecting facades of centuries-old Île de la Cité and the distant silhouette of the Notre-Dame Cathedral. The early evening lends an amber glow, perfect for savoring your first authentic pains au chocolat from a nearby boulangerie as you watch bookstalls and artists setting up for the twilight.

As dusk deepens, catch a magical sunset cruise on the Seine, where softly illuminated bridges, the majestic Louvre’s glass pyramid, and the Eiffel Tower’s first twinkling lights create an intoxicating panorama. The river breeze carries the faint chatter of Parisians winding down their day, and the gentle rocking of the bateau brings a soothing rhythm that invites you to dream about the days ahead.

To conclude your day, stroll through Place Dauphine, a tranquil square edged with quaint cafés buzzing with convivial locals. Here, enjoy a glass of chilled Sancerre while soaking up the ambiance of this hidden gem nestled between the grandeur of the Palais de Justice and the Pont Neuf bridge. The mild September evenings and soft lamplight create a perfect cocoon for a couple beginning their French story together.

Begin your morning at the Musée d'Orsay, a former railway station turned gallery that houses the finest impressionist and post-impressionist masterpieces in the world. Glide quietly past celebrated canvases by Monet, Van Gogh, and Degas, feeling the brushstrokes come alive under the soaring glass roof. The museum’s bright September mornings enhance the subtle hues of the paintings, filling you with inspiration and a sense of profound connection to art history’s greatest innovators.

From here, take a short 20-minute metro ride to Montmartre, Paris’s historic artists’ quarter perched on a gentle hill. Wander its narrow cobbled lanes lined with independent art studios, patisseries, and timeless bistros. Your stroll leads you to the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica, whose dazzling white domes crown the skyline. Climb the steps and savor sweeping panoramic views of Paris—a breathtaking reward bathed in the warm midday sunlight. Pause for a café crème at La Maison Rose, a charming pink-hued café that has hosted painters and dreamers for over a century, offering intimate ambiance and delectable pastries.

As the afternoon progresses, experience the spirited energy of Place du Tertre, where local artists display their work and offer to paint your portrait—a timeless souvenir of your Parisian romance. For a unique local touch, join a brief watercolor workshop with a resident artist, capturing Montmartre’s essence on paper, turning your memories into beautiful keepsakes. The lively streets here bustle with September’s gentle crowds, making it an ideal time to discover hidden galleries and the essence of Parisian joie de vivre.

Depart early from Paris and enjoy a 45-minute train ride via the RER C line to Versailles Château Rive Gauche station, followed by a gentle walk through the charming town to the world-famous Château de Versailles. Approach the grand façade and step inside the Hall of Mirrors, where colossal windows and glistening chandeliers reflect the opulent courtly life of King Louis XIV. The shimmering mirrors and spectacular ceiling paintings depict stories of power and mythology, evoking awe and reverence. Walking these halls in September, when fewer crowds visit, allows you to absorb the grandeur in a peaceful atmosphere.

After exploring the palace interiors, step outside to wander the expansive gardens designed by André Le Nôtre. The autumn light plays beautifully over the geometric parterres and ornamental fountains, inviting you to leisurely stroll under alleys of chestnut trees just beginning to hint at fall colors. Take a paddle boat onto the Grand Canal, the vast waterway framed by perfectly trimmed bosquets, and watch the sunlight sparkle on the water's surface, feeling as though you have traveled back to the splendor of the 17th century.

Conclude your visit by exploring the Petit Trianon and the Queen’s Hamlet, Marie Antoinette’s idyllic rural retreat within the estate. This charming cluster of rustic cottages and gardens contrasts with the palace’s formality, offering a romantic glimpse into her personal world. Savor a picnic here with freshly baked baguette, local cheeses, and fruit from Versailles markets, enjoying the tranquil countryside air and the soft buzz of nature amid historic surroundings.

Catch an early TGV from Paris Montparnasse to Tours, the gateway to the Loire Valley, followed by a brief 30-minute drive to Château de Chambord, the most iconic Renaissance castle in France. Marvel at its massive façade crowned by a forest of ornate chimneys, and step inside to explore the extraordinary double-helix staircase rumored to be designed by Leonardo da Vinci himself. There is a sense of whimsical grandeur here, accentuated by the surrounding dense forest and wide Loire River meadows, where September sunshine dapples the rolling landscape.

Next, journey 45 minutes to Château de Chenonceau, famously spanning the River Cher with its elegant arches. Stroll through the lush gardens perfumed with late summer blooms and explore interiors filled with fine tapestries and period furnishings. The setting sun casts a soft glow on the water, creating a magical ambiance that captures the romantic spirit of the Loire.

Conclude the afternoon in Amboise with a visit to a nearby vineyard such as Domaine des Hauts de Loire. Here, delight in a private wine tasting experience featuring crisp Sauvignon Blancs and delicate Chenin Blancs, paired with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. The hosts share secrets of the terroir and vinification, giving you an authentic connection to the land’s bounty. September’s mild weather and golden light make vineyard visits especially memorable and intimate for couples discovering French wine culture together.

Fly early from Paris to Avignon, and embark on a scenic 40-minute drive to the village of Sault, perched on the edge of the Mont Ventoux massif and famous for its stunning late-season lavender fields that perfume the air with their gentle scent. Wander hand-in-hand through endless swathes of violet, the September sunlight casting soft shadows and highlights across the rolling petals, a perfect moment to breathe deeply and take unforgettable photos. Nearby, visit a local farm where you can learn the traditional lavender distillation process and purchase artisanal essential oils and crafts.

Afterwards, drive 30 minutes to the historic town of Orange. Here, explore the magnificent Roman Theatre of Orange, one of Europe’s best-preserved ancient open-air theatres still used for performances today. The awe-inspiring stage wall rising 37 meters high offers a striking backdrop as you imagine the gladiators and orators who once captivated the crowds. Enjoy a guided tour to delve into the site’s architectural marvels and vivid history, the warm Provençal sun enhancing every carving and column.

Conclude your day with a walk along the Rhône River banks, where the gentle September breeze rustles the poplars and the aroma of nearby vineyards mingles with the fresh river air. Enjoy a Provençal dinner at a nearby local bistro offering specialties like ratatouille and rosé wine, savoring the region’s flavors alongside views that inspire timeless romance.

After a scenic 40-minute drive from Marseille, arrive at the Calanque de Sormiou, one of the largest and most idyllic fjord-like inlets along this rugged coast. Begin your trek on well-marked trails that lead along towering cliffs and fragrant pine forests, pausing to gaze down on isolated coves where sunlight dances on sapphire waters. The gentle sea breeze mingles with the scents of thyme and rosemary, energizing your steps as you discover hidden beaches accessible only on foot or boat.

Pause to swim in the cool, pristine waters of Calanque d’En-Vau, surrounded by sheer cliff faces that shimmer golden in the afternoon light. The refreshing saltwater offers an unforgettable contrast to the warmth of the rocks and the vivid blue sky above. Find a sunbaked ledge to rest and picnic, enjoying freshly packed baguette, olives, and local cured meats, allowing the ocean sounds and birdsong to envelop you in serene natural harmony.

Conclude your day by hiking to the Belvédère de Sugiton viewpoint. From here, marvel at sweeping views over the Calanques stretching towards the Mediterranean horizon. As the late September sun lowers, the colors shift to rich ambers and deep blues, a perfect canvas for reflection and shared moments of wonder. Return to Marseille for a seafood dinner in the historic Vieux-Port, savoring the local catch in this vibrant harbor setting.

Travel two hours east from Marseille along the scenic coastal road to Saint-Tropez, arriving late morning to the town's iconic harbor bustling with gleaming superyachts. Feel the Mediterranean breeze as you wander the lively Quai Jean Jaurès, admiring the colorful boats and chic boutique shops. The crisp September air keeps the vibrant café terraces lively yet comfortable, inviting you to pause and savor a café au lait while watching the world go by.

Explore the winding cobblestone streets of the Old Town (La Ponche district), discovering charming artisan shops, lively markets, and quaint squares. Visit Place des Lices, where locals play pétanque under plane trees, capturing an authentic Provençal scene far from the summer crowds. Pause at the 17th-century Saint-Tropez Citadel perched on a hill, where the maritime museum and panoramic views make for a romantic and contemplative visit.

Spend the afternoon unwinding at the nearby Pampelonne Beach, one of the Côte d'Azur’s most celebrated beaches. Rent a lounger in a stylish beach club, relish the fine sand and warm, transparent water, and savor local specialties like salade niçoise or fresh seafood with a chilled rosé. As the sun sinks, stroll along the coastline watching colorful fishing boats returning, ending your day wrapped in the golden hues of a perfect Mediterranean sunset.

Begin your morning with a gentle walk along Nice’s renowned Promenade des Anglais, where the turquoise Mediterranean laps against pebble beaches under a brilliant September sun. Feel the fresh sea breeze and watch locals and visitors mingle on bicycles, rollerblades, and benches shaded by elegant palm trees. Pause at one of the charming waterfront cafés for a local espresso and a freshly baked socca, a traditional chickpea pancake only found here, savoring the moment beside the sparkling sea.

Dive into the Old Town of Nice (Vieux Nice), a maze of narrow alleys painted in pastel ochre and terracotta hues, lively with fragrant markets and artisan shops. Wander through Cours Saleya market, delighting in vibrant stalls overflowing with fresh produce, flowers, Provencal herbs, and handmade crafts. Stop to sample Niçoise specialties such as pissaladière and daube provençale at hidden gems recommended by locals, allowing the flavors to narrate the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

Ascend to Castle Hill (Colline du Château) via a short walk or elevator to reward yourself with panoramic views of the city’s red tile roofs, sparkling bay, and distant hills framed by late afternoon haze. Nearby, find shaded terraces to enjoy a glass of local rosé or champagne as the sun begins its descent. Wander through peaceful park areas where the sound of cascading waterfalls mingles with cicadas, offering a tranquil oasis in the city before descending towards a leisurely dinner at a romantic bistro tucked away in the old town’s winding streets.

Arrive in Lyon via a restful 4.5-hour TGV train journey from Nice, settling into a cozy hotel near the UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon district. Begin your exploration with a walking tour through narrow Renaissance streets, discovering colorful traboules—hidden passageways unique to Lyon—that once sheltered silk workers. Pause at Saint Jean Cathedral to admire its striking astronomical clock and take in the Renaissance architecture that paints a vivid backdrop infused with centuries of history.

Make your way to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, an iconic covered market named after the legendary chef, where vibrant stalls overflow with fresh truffles, cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal fruits. Wander amongst enthusiastic local shoppers and sample samples of quenelles, saucisson, and extraordinary pastries. Engage with passionate vendors eager to share stories of their craft, creating a sensory immersion into the region's culinary richness.

In the evening, immerse yourselves in Lyon’s famed bouchon dining experience. Choose a traditional restaurant like Bouchon des Filles where you will savor hearty dishes such as coq au vin and gratin dauphinois in an intimate, warm setting filled with authentic decorative touches and the hum of conviviality. Sip local Beaujolais or Côtes du Rhône wines, letting the flavors and ambiance deepen the connection between food, culture, and each other.

Travel a scenic 1 hour train ride from Lyon to Avignon, where you will be welcomed by the imposing medieval city walls encircling this historic gem. Begin your visit with a stroll atop the ramparts, offering panoramic views over the Rhône River, terracotta rooftops, and picturesque landscapes beyond. The gentle September breeze and soft golden light create a perfect moment for reflection and photo memories.

Explore the Palais des Papes, Europe’s largest Gothic palace and former papal residence, delving into its vast halls and chapels where echoes of 14th-century politics and religion linger. Guided tours illuminate the stories behind the stone walls, frescoes, and battlements, lending you a deep sense of connection to the city’s extraordinary past.

In the afternoon, meander through the quaint streets of Avignon’s old town, discovering artisan shops, lively cafés, and the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge ruins. Find a shaded terrace by the Rhône to sip fine local Côtes du Rhône wine while watching boats glide by. This intimate riverside moment perfectly encapsulates the warmth and historic charm of Avignon, a fitting finale to a ten-day odyssey through the soul of France.