Rome, Italy - Paris, France 22 day trip

Italy's eternal capital boasts historic sites, ancient ruins, fine architecture, rich culture, superb food, and vibrant nightlife.

Make a wish and toss a coin into this world-famous Baroque fountain, admire its sculptures, then head off to explore the nearby cafes.

This iconic landmark is a triumph of Roman architecture, dating to the 1C and hailed as the largest amphitheater ever built.

Once the political and commercial center of ancient Rome, this archaeological park now houses nicely-preserved ruins.

A very lively neighborhood in the heart of Rome. Great for an evening stroll and a good meal.

Flanked by two gorgeous 16C villas, these elegant gardens boast an intricate design, fountains, sculptures, and a wealth of blossoms.

Dramatically set on an eroding volcanic plateau overlooking the area, this town retains much of its historic architecture and charm.

Set in the Vatican City, these 54 museums house an exquisite art collection dating to the 16C, including the famed Sistine Chapel.

The veritable heart of Rome, this hill is an archaeological park featuring a wealth of remarkable ancient ruins and a museum.

Originally a Roman temple, this famed 2C rotonda is a superbly-preserved cultural monument, as well as a feat of Roman engineering.

Climb up the elegant 18C Spanish Steps to visit the church, or spend your time loafing on the square below, soaking in the ambiance.

The romantic gardens feature medieval ruins, a variety of trees, meadows, exotic plants, and roses that grow over the ruins.

Boasting a fascinating history dating back to the Bronze Age, this town was abandoned during the 18C but retains some interesting remnants.

This magnificent 19C monument commemorates Italy's first king, and features an array of artistic and architectural elements.

This beautiful 20C villa houses an exquisite 17C collection of artwork and historic artefacts, including choice pieces by Caravaggio.

Erected by the Torlonia family in the 18C and occupied by Mussolini in the 20C, this Neoclassical mansion now hosts a small art museum.

Once a wealthy suburb of ancient Rome full of elegant villas and rich gardens, the district is now a great spot for a stroll.

Spanning across a strip of coastal land, including stretch of forest, the park features several types of climates and scenery.

Evacuated by the government and repopulated by artists and artisans decades later, this quaint town on top of a volcano bursts with culture.

Take a walk through the residential Aventine Hill quarter, famed for the Santa Maria Church whose keyhole offers a superb view.

Stroll through the tranquil expanse dotted with fine tombstones, admiring the fruit trees and noting some of the historic relics.

A masterpiece of Renaissance architecture, this awe-inspiring 16C church boasts artwork by Italian masters and exquisite furnishing.

An underground cemetery used from the Greek period onward, now featuring several notable mausoleums and sarcophagi.

Visit the ruins of this once thriving Etruscan metropolis, sacked in the 1C BC, but still retaining remnants of its former grandeur.

Home to historic sites, this national park also offers an array of outdoor activities, including horse riding, biking, and skiing.

Once a Roman arena used for games, this lively Baroque square is a great spot to rest your feet and enjoy some people-watching.

A Neoclassical square strewn with fountains, cultural monuments, and restaurants, offering a great opportunity for people-watching.

The first church to be built with a Baroque facade, this 16C institute features fine architecture and remarkable ornamentation.

Housed in the artist's own residence, this museum exhibits an array of Anderdsen's work from sculpture, to painting, to design.

Opened sporadically, this intriguing sculpture garden was inspired by Antoni Gaudi, and features over 20 figures from Tarot cards.

Scenically flanked by two hills, this charming town retains its medieval center and well-preserved architectural diversity.

Covered by ash since the 1C, this historic Roman city offers a wonderful insight into ancient life, architecture, and art.

Skirting the Salerno Gulf, this scenic drive will afford you breathtaking views, many options for interesting stops on the way.

A great spot from which to explore the riches of the Amalfi coast, this picturesque town offers lush views and historic buildings.

While Positano is a small village, little compares with its pastoral beauty, white Moorish houses, and gorgeous turquoise bay.

Many opt to drive, but some choose to hike this incredible scenic road, named for the Roman temples that once stood here.

Connected to Procida by a bridge, the beautiful moon shaped island is a remnant ridge of an ancient volcanic crater.

Italy's third-largest city is a bustling port rich with history, cultural monuments, various attractions, and great food.

A destination in Italy frequented by few tourists.

Stroll through San Giovanni Rotondo's town center and absorb the local atmosphere

Located on a small hill, this uniquely constructed fortress dates to the 13C and affords lovely views of the surrounding area.

A sparsely inhabited archipelago boasting breathtaking natural beauty, rich marine life, nice beaches, and lots of hiking trails.

Situated on the beautiful Gargano Peninsula, this national park offers its visitors cliffs, caves, superb views, hiking, or cycling.

Explore the lush expanses of this national park, rife with natural attractions, archaeological sites, and breathtaking scenery.

Clinging to the steep Pizzomunno cliffs, this beautiful town is known for its gorgeous scenery and access to Parco Nazionale del Gargano.

The biggest city in the region, with an impressive historic center, good food, beaches, and vibrant nightlife.

Virtually unchanged since the 13C, this town is the birthplace of several saints, boasts elaborate architecture, and exudes history.

Known as a major pilgrimage site, this 13C cathedral features Romanesque architecture, exquisite murals, and ecclesiastic relics.

Roam the streets once traversed by multiple saints, explore the narrow alleyways, and look for glimpses of divine inspiration.

With a fascinating history stretching to the 12C at least, this massive castle is worth exploring, if only for the superb views.

A wonderful example of Umbrian Romanesque architecture, this 12C cathedral features notable ornamental elements and a rich museum.

Dramatically set on an eroding volcanic plateau overlooking the area, this town retains much of its historic architecture and charm.

One of the best areas to take a scenic drive in Tuscany, this valley offers great views of the countryside at its best.

This fine lake is little-known, but boasts a wealth of appeal, from surrounding castles, to plentiful fish, to good eateries nearby.

Flanked by two gorgeous 16C villas, these elegant gardens boast an intricate design, fountains, sculptures, and a wealth of blossoms.

Once a monasterial complex, La Scarzuola is an amalgam of architectural styles, beautifully merging traditional with Surrealist styles.

Dating to the 14C, this hilltop monastery boasts remarkable frescoes, murals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

One of Italy's best preserved hilltop towns, doubling as a hip student town with an edgy cultural scene.

Follow the twisting streets into the heart of Perugia's historic center, where a wonderful sense of medieval times presides.

This medieval magistrate dates to the 13C, boasting fine Gothic architecture and some of the best galleries in Perugia.

A 15C cathedral boasting Gothic architecture, a wealth of ornamental details, and an in-house museum exhibiting ecclesiastic relics.

Constructed in the 14C, this massive basilica houses several notable ecclesiastic artwork, as well as an archaeology museum.

One of the best areas to take a scenic drive in Tuscany, this valley offers great views of the countryside at its best.

Dramatically set on an eroding volcanic plateau overlooking the area, this town retains much of its historic architecture and charm.

Tuscany's capital is full of history, boasting beautiful architecture, great art venues, superb food, and unforgettable atmosphere.

Succumb to the charms of this historic center, venturing through the streets to discover quaint shops, cafes, and historic sites.

This superb art gallery houses a wealth of Renaissance art, including Michelangelo's world-famous sculpture of David.

An 11C Romanesque church with rich geometrical design, featuring uniquely ornate interior, including mosaics, murals, and frescoes.

A famous museum, exhibiting some of the greatest classical art pieces from major Italian masters. A must visit for art lovers!

One of the best areas to take a scenic drive in Tuscany, this valley offers great views of the countryside at its best.

A top destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Siena is famous for its cuisine, art, museums, and medieval cityscape.

Strewn with 16C-18C sculptures and architectural curios, these lovely gardens are home to a notable Fountain of Neptune.

Florence's largest church is an architectural gem boasting Gothic-Revival architecture, superb decorations, and an exquisite facade.

Admire the superb design, then climb 414 stairs up this beautiful Gothic tower to enjoy the stunning views of Florence awaiting you.

This popular hilltop square offers the best views of the city, and is lauded for its magical atmosphere during sunset.

Erected during the Renaissance period, this villa now boasts a superb parkland dotted with fountains, statues, and lovely scenery.

Dating to the 14C, this hilltop monastery boasts remarkable frescoes, murals, and breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

The city's Town Hall dates to the 13C and features several lovely courtyards, as well as an array of chambers with historic decor.

Stretching between two palaces, this covered passageway features several notable paintings.

Hemmed with various cultural and historic landmarks, this central square is a great spot for a meet up or for some people-watching.

Formerly a prisonhouse, this 13C building houses an art museum displaying important sculptures and artworks by Renaissance masters.

Only ruins remain of the 13C monasterial complex, but wandering among these offers glimpses of fine Gothic architecture.

This 16C boasts exquisite Moorish Revival architecture and breathtaking decor. Be sure to check its opening hours in advance.

Comprised of five colorful villages, this Italian town sprawls over terraced rocks along the coast and offers spectacular scenery.

A hiking trail high above the Cinque Terre villages that affords breathtaking views of the area. Takes a full day of moderate effort.

If you have one day to explore the Cinque Terre villages, this gorgeous coastal trail connecting the villages is the best way to do so.

The second smallest and possibly the oldest of Cinque Terre's towns, Manarola is famous for its bright and colorful houses.

One Cinque Terre's five towns, Vernazza is known as one of the most authentic fishing villages on the Italian Riviera.

A striking rock formation reaching the height of over 1,000m, boasting a national park and an array of tropical vegetation.

Spanning 70km, only 2 of which are open to the public, this marvelous karst cave system is rich with mesmerizing rock formations.

One of the five towns of Cinque Terre, it is known for its famous convent which is visible from all parts of Cinque Terre.

The only town of Cinque Terre not directly adjacent to the sea, Corniglia connects to the other towns by natural stone terraces.

The most southern of Cinque Terre's five towns, it is is known for its historic charm and its excellent locally produced wine.

Riddled with trails of various lengths, this limestone cave system features stalactites, subterranean lakes, mud formations, and more.

With its undeniable medieval charm, this town is full of history, churches, quaint streets, museums, and stately villas.

Home to the world-famous leaning tower, this city in fact boasts a multitude of historic sites, great architecture, and fine museums.

Put on your hiking shoes and head out, exploring the wild nature stretching between Camogli and Portofino on this 15km trail.

A beautiful seaside town surrounded by hilly landscape, Rapello is known for its mild climate which has made it a popular destination.

This 16C hilltop sanctuary was built as a shrine to the the Virgin Mary based on a portrait of her believed to be given by angels.

Full of beauty and charm, this popular town rests on the banks of Lake Como, and offers its visitors an array of cultural monuments.

Wander around the narrow winding streets full of charming little nooks, and fall in love in one of Italy's prettiest little towns.

A relic of Italian Gothic architecture, this impressive 14C cathedral features remarkable tapestries, as well as fine paintings.

While the villa itself is not open to the public, its surrounding botanical gardens are, offering an array of natural features.

Hemmed with charming small towns, this lovely lake little-known, but boasts marvelous scenery and a serene atmosphere.

One of Switzerland's major cities, Lucerne offers a myriad of cultural landmarks, a beautiful lake and a lively, fun, atmosphere.

Stroll along the banks of Lake Lucerne, lined with beautiful houses, palaces, and great viewing points of the surrounding nature.

Discover remnants of Lucerne’s ancient fortification as you wander through the historic streets of the mountainside old town.

Home to the city's arts museum, this cultural center also boasts fine modern architecture and a performance venue with superb acoustics.

A gallery housing one of Europe’s finest private art collections with over 200 works from the 19C and 20C.

Dramatically set against the peaks of Jungfraujoch, this astronomical observatory afford breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Whether you catch a boat, take a tour, or stand on the flanking platforms, you will enjoy the views of Europe's largest plain waterfall.

Honoring the Swiss Guards slaughtered during the French Revolution, this 19C stone relief is a poignant depiction of a dying lion.

A fun museum exhibiting an array of transportations, including planes, locomotives, and cars, as well as other curios.

Spanning 170m over the Reuss river, this covered footbridge dates to the 14C and boasts wonderful 17C murals along the interior.

With a nice focus on fine arts, this museum hosts an impressive collection of 19C-20C artwork and offers an interesting experience.

Ride a cable-car to the summit or go mountaineering and brave the 2,343m peak, where a stunning landscape and hiking trails awaits you.

The summit of this Alpine mountain can be reached by a steam train, and offers a stunning view of the Berne Alps and Lake Brienz.

Preserving a section of glacial landscape dating to the Ice Age, the garden also exhibits fossils and features a mirror maze nearby.

Depicting a scene in the 19C Franco-Prussian War, this massive panoramic painting is housed in a museum tracing the history of the war.

Boasting a wonderful German Renaissance architecture, this 17C church features twin spires and fine decorations.

Founded in the 17C, this lovely church boasts Baroque architecture and a wealth of fine ornamentation, including frescoes and marble.

Part of the Jura Mountains, this nearly 1,400m peak can be reached by a gondola and offers spectacular panoramic views of the area.

Between Paris and Lyon, Dijon is the perfect place to sample Burgundian cuisine and admire Medieval architecture.

The excellent gastronomy and Medieval influence make Dijon's town center a pleasure to explore.

Formerly a Ducal Palace, this beautiful landmark is now home of the Dijon Fine Arts Museum.

This cathedral masterpiece perfectly represents the complexity and beauty of Gothic architecture.

A walk through this old quarter demonstrates the evolution of Medieval architecture.

From these cascades, you can admire the river flowing down the slopes in spectacular waterfalls.

Take a day to discover the breathtaking lakes, rivers, and huge forests of the Morvan.

The perfect place for fine art lovers, this museum displays unique pieces of art by many important artists.

Each step along this street reveals another characteristic of Dijon.

Formerly the capital of Burgundy, this town has retained its passion and tradition of art and wine.

Some magnificent remains can be found in this abbey, such as the Holy Water bell tower.

The City of Lights boasts fascinating architecture, rich culture, and amazing cuisine, making it one of the best destinations in the world.

With its antique shops, art galleries, squares, and great restaurants, the Place des Vosges is an incarnation of charm.

As the most renowned art gallery in the world, with the Mona Lisa as its crown jewel, the Louvre could take a week or more to visit in depth.

This avenue is the most vivid place in Paris, with excellent restaurants, theaters, and luxury boutiques at every turn.

The most iconic monument of Paris, The Eiffel Tower is a Symbol of France and offers the highest observation deck in Europe at 276m high.

The town of Versailles is the symbol of the French monarchy, and considered as the apogee of classical arts in France.

Built in the 17C in typical Classical style, this castle is one of the most prestigious in the region.

These French gardens are some of the most lovely and romantic in all of Paris.

Enjoy an amazing view of Paris at the romantic surroundings this basilica offers.

Stroll through the narrow streets and discover the restaurants and boutiques in the Marais quarter.

One of the most lively quarters of Paris, the nightlife, dining and entertainment options here seem endless.

This small town is dominated by its massive castle and amazing forest, and is a popular weekend destination for Parisians.

This romantic town in the Picadry region proudly displays its Medieval heritage, architecture, monuments, and art.

This breathtaking museum in an old train station focuses on 19C art, and holds concerts and other performance on an ongoing basis.

At more than 900 ha, this is a welcome greenspace in Paris, including its lakes, fountains, zoo, and more.

With its "Fontaine des Fleuves" and obelisk, this is one of the most picturesque sites in Paris.

Dedicated to the work of Auguste Rodin and Camille Claudel, this museum is home to "The Thinker". 

Considered the capital of the Centre region, this city is excellent for lovers of history and quality dining.

This small town is famous for its magnificent attractions: Chantilly Castle and the vast park and forest that surround it.