7-Day Northern France Tour Packages
Picture cycling through northern France, moving between Brittany and Normandy at your own pace. Explore Rennes' historic old town, cycle the scenic Ille et Rance canal, and tour the fortified city of Saint-Malo. Mont-Saint-Michel's abbey rises from the bay, try Loire Valley cycling through Blois, Château de Chambord's massive estate, or tasting wines in troglodyte cellars. Northern France packs history, landscapes, and incredible food into small distances.
Insider tips: Recommended 7-day Northern France tour itineraries
Compiled by
MelissaNorthern France travel expert at TourRadar
7 Days in Northern France, incl. Saint-Malo and Normandy
Medieval towns and coastal landmarks line the route from Rennes to Arromanches-les-Bains. Saint-Malo's ramparts, Mont-Saint-Michel's abbey, and Bayeux's cathedral stand proud. WWII history lives at Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer.
- Day 1
Rennes
Begin in Rennes, the capital of Brittany. Plan to arrive before 2 PM to explore the old town's 15th-century timber-framed houses and have time before dinner. The cobblestone streets near Place des Lices make for a perfect first walk around the city.
- Day 2
Rennes to Dinan
Start your cycling adventure on the Ille et Rance canal towpath. The flat route is ideal for your first day with no challenging climbs. Bring a light windbreaker since the canal can get breezy. Visit the old abbey in Léhon before continuing to Dinan. In the evening, head to the port area for excellent fresh seafood.
- Day 3
Dinan to Saint-Malo
Ride along the River Rance estuary toward the coast, stopping at fishing villages. The route stays mostly flat with a few gentle slopes. Take the shuttle boat from Dinard to Saint-Malo (runs every 30 minutes, €8 one-way). Walk Saint-Malo's 12th-century ramparts at sunset when the old stones take on a golden glow.
- Day 4
Emerald Coast to Mont-Saint-Michel
The coastal route takes you through Cancale, known for its oysters. Visit between 11 AM-2 PM when the oyster market is busy. Before reaching Mont-Saint-Michel, check the tide schedule. High tide surrounds the abbey with water, creating stunning photo opportunities in the late afternoon light.
- Day 5
Bayeux and D-Day Beaches
Get to Bayeux early to see the famous tapestry before the crowds arrive. The ride to Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer is a moving experience. Pack layers for the windy coastal route. As one visitor shared: "The memorial at Omaha Beach is incredibly powerful. Go early morning when it's quiet - the atmosphere is incredibly moving."
- Day 6
Longues-sur-Mer to Saint Aubin Sur Mer
Start at the German battery in Longues-sur-Mer when it opens at 9 AM. Cycle through Norman villages with traditional half-timbered houses. Stop in Arromanches to see Churchill's artificial harbor at low tide. The quiet country lanes to Saint Aubin Sur Mer offer a peaceful look at rural Norman life.
- Day 7
Saint Aubin Sur Mer
The journey ends after breakfast. Book an afternoon train to Paris to avoid morning crowds. The station is 15 minutes away by taxi.
French Christmas Markets
Northern French cities reveal their charms over 7 days, from Paris's Seine cruise to Reims' champagne houses. The decorated Château de Chambord, medieval Dijon, and Strasbourg's Christmas markets await. Six nights' accommodation, 8 meals, and expert-guided tours cost approx. $200 per day.
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What people love about 7-day Northern France tours
- Best of France Tour
Tour was very good. Initial Hotel accommodations could have been closer to the initial points for the meeting points. Taxi rides were pretty expensive.
- The Rouen Armada and the most beautiful stops along the Seine Valley (port-to-port cruise)
Croisi ship nice and comfortable. Tour director fantastic helping with issues. Nice food and all your directors excellent with info