Explore the essence of France on a 12-day journey starting in Paris, the city of romance. Discover charming gardens, historic towns, and seaside retreats. Experience the cultural richness of Rennes, Nantes, and Bordeaux. Marvel at medieval architecture in Carcassonne and Avignon's historic sites. Explore Roman relics in Nîmes and Arles before enjoying the Mediterranean allure in Nice, Monaco, and Eze.
Itinerary at a glance
Today, you'll depart from the USA, beginning your art-filled, romantic journey to France.
Upon arriving in Paris, meet your tour leader and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel. Check-in, relax, and acclimate to the time difference, preparing for the upcoming journey.
After breakfast, depart for Giverny to visit Monet's Garden, the residence of the Impressionist master. Stroll through the garden that inspired much of his art. Next, journey to Rouen, a city rich in ancient architecture and a favorite among artists. Explore the old town with its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses. Picture stop at the Joan of Arc Memorial Church and the Rouen Cathedral, famously painted by Monet. Finally, reach Mont Saint Michel . After dinner, check into your hotel.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, immerse yourself in Mont Saint-Michel. The Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, sits atop this tidal island. Afterward, head to Rennes, a prominent university city and industrial hub. Stroll through the old town, visit the market, and soak in the local atmosphere. Continue to Nantes to explore the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, admiring its towers and moat.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, travel to La Rochelle, a medieval city renowned for its three towers and ancient port. After a ferry ride to admire the port’s beauty, proceed to Bordeaux, the world-famous wine region. Visit the Cité du Vin, an architecturally stunning building symbolizing the movement of wine in a glass. Enjoy a panoramic wine tasting, savoring fine wines while taking in the views of Bordeaux.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today, drive to Arcachon Bay, where pine forests, sandy dunes, and shimmering waters create a stunning landscape. The Dune of Pilat, the largest sand dune in Europe, continues to rise due to the Atlantic winds. This area is a paradise for paragliders, offering spectacular views of Arcachon Bay and the Landes Forest. Next, journey to the vineyard-laden region of Saint-Émilion, renowned for its endless vineyards and charming villages. Explore the Romanesque churches and Gothic cathedrals before returning to Bordeaux. End your day by visiting the Miroir d’eau, a reflecting pool that mirrors Bordeaux's Place de la Bourse.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, drive to Toulouse, known as the “Pink City” for its red brick buildings glowing at sunset. After lunch, visit the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, Europe’s largest Romanesque church, then stroll across Saint Pierre Bridge to enjoy riverside views. Explore Place du Capitole, the city’s vibrant center with its grand city hall. Afterwards, return to the hotel for check-in and dinner.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, head to Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built on the site of an ancient Roman fortress, Carcassonne’s well-preserved walls and 52 towers tell tales of its 2,500-year history. Cross the Old Bridge for a panoramic view of the medieval citadel. After lunch, journey to the Provence region and Avignon. Known for its Romanesque architecture, Avignon is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the Pont Saint-Bénézet, the Avignon Bridge, and explore the stone paths around the city’s fortified walls. The view from the hilltop overlooking the Palais des Papes and the Saint-Bénézet Bridge is breathtaking.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, leave Avignon for Nîmes and visit the Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This ancient aqueduct showcases the brilliance of Roman engineering. Continue to Arles, a city steeped in Roman history, with well-preserved ruins like the Roman amphitheater. Arles is also where Vincent van Gogh spent some of his most productive years, painting masterpieces like "Café Terrace at Night." Follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps and explore the city that inspired some of his greatest works.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start your day with a visit to Cassis, a charming fishing village southeast of Marseille. Here, you’ll find the breathtaking Calanques fjords, where white limestone cliffs plunge into the azure Mediterranean Sea. If weather permits, enjoy a boat tour of the Calanques. Next, travel to the hilltop town of Saint Paul de Vence, nestled between Nice and Cannes. Encircled by medieval walls, this town is a modern-day art sanctuary. Wander through the winding alleys lined with historic buildings before heading to Nice for the night.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Nice, the cultural capital of the French Riviera, is framed by the deep blue waters of the Baie des Anges. Stroll along the famous Promenade des Anglais, a palm-lined walkway stretching along the Mediterranean. Walk through the vibrant streets of the Old Town, bursting with colorful flowers, quaint cafes, and bustling bistros. Later, visit the principality of Monaco, known for its opulent palace and the glamorous Monte Carlo. In the afternoon, arrive at Eze, one of France’s most beautiful villages. Perched on a cliff like an eagle’s nest, Eze offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Your enchanting journey comes to an end today as you transfer to the airport and return to the USA, filled with unforgettable memories.
Included: Breakfast
Excellent bilingual (Chinese and English speaking) tour manager throughout the tour in Europe.
Sightseeing with specialist local guides in selected cities.
European or buffet breakfast daily at hotel, 1 lunch and 9 dinners.
Deluxe air-conditioned tour coach with professional service of drivers.
Airport group transfers in Europe on arrival (Paris) and departure (Nice). (Land+Air Packages only).
Group identification badge, luggage tag and document holder provided for your convenience and easy recognition.
Create your ideal getaway with the following upgrade options. Extensions and upgrades can be added during the booking process or speak to one of our travel advisors to tailor your perfect trip.
Treat yourself to the most sought-after seats on our coaches — those in the first two or three rows. We assign 10 seats in the front rows on a first-come, first-served basis subject to availability. To pre-book these seats, select the front of coach seating option online in your account.
★ ★ ★ ★
Make yourself at home in our spacious, contemporary hotel rooms and suites featuring plush bedding, soundproof windows, high-speed Wi-Fi and an array of entertainment options. Enjoy all-day dining on delicious French cuisine or sip wine with friends on the outdoor terrace at La Brasserie Restaurant & Bar. Our accessible location makes it easy for you to explore Paris; the shopping mall Les Quatre Temps, Grande Arche de la Defense and the Champs Elysées are just moments away.
★ ★ ★ ★
Unwind near one of France's greatest icons at the Mercure Mont-Saint-Michel hotel. Take the country path behind the hotel to follow the shore on foot to Mont-Saint-Michel, giving you a spectacular view without the tourist bustle. Enjoy the tranquil comfort of a bright and spacious room.
★ ★ ★ ★
A 4-star hotel in Nantes, surrounded by nature. Located in Orvault, just a few minutes from Nantes, Quintessia, hotel Nantes, is a true haven of tranquility. Stay at Quintessia and you'll be sure to enjoy a peaceful stay in a lush green setting. A true haven of peace, with only the rustling of trees and birdsong to keep you company. While strolling through our flower garden or enjoying breakfast on our terrace in the shade of the pine trees, you might even be lucky enough to spot some curious squirrels. Discover a hotel in Nantes, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, where you can relax in a unique setting.
★ ★ ★ ★
Pullman Bordeaux Lac is an elegant hotel close to the lake, next to vineyards. All rooms have air conditioning, free WIFI, TV, desk and courtesy tray. Ideally located, at the gates of a Bordeaux vineyard and the Arcachon Basin, facing Bordeaux lake. Located 10 min from the city center, classified by UNESCO as a world heritage site, the Pullman Bordeaux hotel has direct access to the convention center.
★ ★ ★ ★
Discover the FirstName Toulouse, a 4-star hotel in the heart of the Pink City. Explore local attractions like the majestic Place du Capitole, lively Saint-Cyprien district and Toulouse's charming canals, all within walking distance. Located along the new leafy Ramblas area, close to the historic center and Matabiau train station, our hotel offers special access to the treasures of Toulouse.
★ ★ ★ ★
Hotel 1770 in Avignon is a Provençal house from the 1770s, renovated in a contemporary style. Our 4 stars hôtel brings you comfort and pleasure. Whether you want a room, a meal, a musical evening or a place of celebration, a body treatment or a seminar room, our Hotel will seduce you.
★ ★ ★ ★
In central Nice, our hotel is directly connected to the Nice-Ville train station, less than 35 minutes by train from Cannes and Monaco. We’re located in the “Iconic” building, within 10 minutes of the seafront and Promenade des Anglais, as well as Old Town and museums. Enjoy our terrace with panoramic views, a fitness center, and an event room.