The ultimate "Tour de France" by rail: history, art and culture edition

For bicycle enthusiasts, this year's Tour de France, the oldest and most renowned bicycle race in the world, is going to be a bit different. For the first time ever, the tour will kick off in Florence, Italy, and will conclude in Nice, France. During this epic race, the ride will cover 3,500 kilometres over three weeks with both flat and mountainous stages. 

However, for us train travellers, our 'Tour de France' takes a different twist. Ours involves a lot more exciting cultural experiences and a lot fewer blisters (because we always pack our good walking shoes). For the next few weeks, we'll explore a number of "Tours de France" by train that you can embark on:

• History, art, and culture: You're here!
• Gastronomy: Coming soon!
• Scenic outdoor experiences: Coming soon!
• Medieval sites: Coming soon!

Stay tuned as we uncover the best experiences each tour has to offer.

History, art and culture: the 4-day “Tour de France”

France is synonymous with history, art and culture, much like chocolate is to pain au chocolat—it's integral. If you have four days to spare, embark on this Tour de France and immerse yourself in some of the world’s most famous cultural treasures.

Starting point: Lille, France

With its numerous museums, festivals, universities, French and Flemish architecture and much more, Lille is a cultural hub not just for France but for all of Europe. Enjoy the city’s lofty bell towers, art collection at Palais des Beaux-Arts and one of Europe’s largest street market dating back to the 12th century. You might be tempted to linger, but it’s time to move on to day two of this cultural escapade.

Next stop: Nantes, France

Train travel time: around 5h

Famous for its Muscadet wine, Nantes is a dynamic and culturally vibrant city. Follow the city’s green painted line to discover its treasures, including Les Machines de l’île, Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Passage Pommeraye, Île de Versailles, and much more! This self-guided walking tour takes you through everything from a zoo of mechanical animals to a serene Japanese garden island.

Next stop: Orleans, France 

Train travel time: around 3h28

Discover the extensive history and picturesque city of Joan of Arc located in the Loire valley (France’s largest UNESCO World Heritage Site). From the Cathédrale Sainte-Croix, where Joan of Arc attended mass, to the Musée des Beaux-Arts, home to exquisite works by renowned European artists such as Velázquez, Poussin, Rubens and Delacroix, Orleans is a paradise for art history and religion enthusiasts.

Final stop: Colmar, France 

Train travel time: around (5h)

Next is the totally-Instagrammable city on the Alsatian wine route of Colmar. Its well-preserved Old Town boasts numerous landmarks, including the Unterlinden Museum. Originally a 13th-century convent, the museum now showcases Matthias Grünewald's renowned "Isenheim Altarpiece." Admire Renaissance craftsmanship at the historic Maison Pfister, indulge in local wine at the Marché Couvert, and experience Colmar from the water on a cruise along the Lauch River canals.

History, art and culture: the 7-day “Tour de France”

For those with extra time, opt for the 7-day “Tour de France” because there is so much to see and experience on this “Tour de Culture.”

Starting point: Paris

Steeped in history, see what made the ‘City of Lights’ become a capital of 

fashion, art, music and architecture. Think: Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo at the Louvre. Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces at Musée d'Orsay. Modern installations at Centre Pompidou. The royal UNESCO World Heritage site of the Palace of Versailles. Opulent architecture and performances at the Opera Garnier. The historic bookstore Shakespeare and Company where Hemingway and Joyce perused the aisles of books. 

Next stop: Caen

Train travel time: 1h20

Founded by William the Conqueror, the city centre impresses with well-preserved medieval architecure including ancient abbeys and a chatueau. For a look at more recent history, head to the Mémorial de Caen to learn all about the Battle of Normandy. Take advantage of the proximity to D-Day Sites and visit the nearby beaches that Allied soldiers landed on in Normandy a mere 80 years ago. 

Next stop: Le Mans

Train travel time: 1h51

Popular as movie backdrops, marvel at almost every type of architectural style from prehistoric times to modern day designs. For enthusiasts of Medieval and Renaissance art, head to the Cathédrale Saint-Julien or visit the Old Town, or the Cité Plantagenêt. For a look at Roman history, it’s to the Roman Walls and Roman Baths, or Thermes Romains, for you. For those with a taste for modern history and art, Le Mans 24 Hours Museum and Musée de Tessé will offer you that and more.

Next stop: La Rochelle 

Train travel time: 4h

Soak up the feel of a historic and picturesque old French harbour town peppered with plenty of eateries, museums and monuments. Some can’t-miss stops for art, history and culture are the Old Port, or Vieux Port, La Rochelle Cathedral, Musée Maritime, Musée des Beaux-Arts and the three towers (Tour de la Lanterne, Tour de la Chaîne and Tour Saint-Nicolas) that stand at the entrance of the Old Port. Take in the breath-taking views of the city from atop these medieval architectural feats. 

Next stop: Toulouse 

Train travel time: 5h

Located by the Garonne River, enjoy the many museums and historical religious buildings in the Pink City’s Old Town. Gaining its nickname from its terracotta walls, it’s what is on the inside of the walls that put this city on this list. Highlights include the Basilique Saint-Sernin, Musée des Augustins and Place du Capitole.

Next stop: Avignon 

Train travel time: 4h

Best known for its historic centre’s outstanding medieval architecture, the ‘City of the Popes’ oozes history and culture at every turn. First stop is the Palais des Papes, or Palace of the Popes, which served as the papil residence during the 14th century. Located next to the Palais des Papes is another religious gem, the Romanesque Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Doms. Beyond these religious landmarks, take in the charming central square, Renaissance museums, and the scenic Rocher des Doms park, which gives visitors an incredible view of the nearby landscape.

Final stop: Monaco

Train travel time: 4h30

The number of museums and its Old Town centre reflect the importance of Monaco’s rich history, art and cultural heritage. From the impressive Roman-Byzantine Cathédrale de Monaco to the thrilling Monte-Carlo Casino to the blossoming Princess Grace Rose Garden, you will quickly see that we conveniently saved the best for last on this “Tour de France” history, art and culture edition.

Trains: the backbone of our “Tour de France”

Our Tour de France revolves around train travel because it makes the journey part of the joy of the experience. As you chug down the tracks on your adventure across France, you will sit front row to some of the world’s most magnificent artistic, historical and cultural treasures. Thanks to France’s exceptional rail network, getting around is smooth and easy. Start building out your Tour de France in just a few clicks with Rail Europe.

And stay tuned for our next “Tour de France.” Which one is up next? Here’s a hint. Come hungry for the adventure of a lifetime.

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