French Heritage (Small Groups, 22 Days)

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Description

Summary

Starts
Paris
Duration
22 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 22-day journey through the enchanting landscapes and captivating cities of France. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, gastronomy, and natural beauty. From the vine-clad scenery of the Champagne region to the high peaks of the Alps, from the glamorous Côte d’Azur to the medieval charm of Saint-Paul de Vence, every day brings a new adventure. Savor exquisite French cuisine, explore world-renowned museums, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a nature lover, this tour has something for everyone.

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Included

9 Dinner with Wine (DW)

21 Breakfast (B)

Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.

Troyes: Journey through the Champagne region and stop for a tasting of renowned Champagne wine.

Grenoble: Enjoy a delicious dinner in Grenoble.

Cahors: See the Pont Valentré as you enjoy a tasting through the markets.

La Roque-Gageac: Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.

Paris: Rendez-vous with your fellow travellers at a typical French bistro for a rousing dinner with wine. Bon Appetit!

Saumur: Learn about local grape varieties and regional wine-making traditions as you sample wines of the Loire Valley.

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Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.

Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

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21 night accommodation

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From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.

Dijon: Explore Dijon with your Travel Director to learn all about the history of this fascinating city, famous for its mustard and wines.

Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbour.

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Monaco City: Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace.

Monaco City: Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Admire grand aquariums of the Mediterranean and tropical seas, and gain insight into the challenges of scientific research in Polar environments.

Choose between two carefully selected activities

Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay.

Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town.

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.

We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Join a pétanque player to learn the secrets behind this traditional French discipline. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills in a game. End with a glass of pastis, a French apéritif.

Luc-sur-Orbieu: The Fabre family has been producing wine since the 17th Century. At the heart of their passion lies a strong commitment to protect the natural environment of the region and produce complex yet sustainable wines. Learn about the production of biodynamic wines during your visit to the family-run winery. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.

Loire Valley: Discover the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry. In the scenic Loire Valley, explore France’s finest formal gardens. Now a hub for sustainability preserving the estate's biological diversity, learn all about the a sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages, and purple basil, all grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Their aim is to preserve a remarkable garden, maintained with meticulous care, while incorporating maintenance work into a balanced ecosystem. They have partnered with a local university to bring biodiversity back into the gardens. Villandry Gardens advance UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land.

Chamonix: Explore the city's charming streets set against a backdrop of the stunning French Alps.

Annecy: Enjoy free time in the Little Venice area.

Nice: Enjoy exploring the beautiful coastal town of Nice on the French Riviera.

Eze: Visit a perfumery to learn about the French perfume industry and discover your signature scent.

Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Discover the beauty of this hilltop town and why it became a refuge for artists.

Aix-en-Provence: See the mansions of the Cours Mirabeau, a lively thoroughfare in Aix-en-Provence.

Pont du Gard: See the ancient Roman bridge that crosses the Gardon River.

Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.

Cite de Carcassone: Enjoy an orientation of this fortified town and see the fortress, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Albi: This is the birthplace of artist, Toulouse-Lautrec. Walk the town and marvel at the awe-inspiring cathedral.

Montignac: These caves contain some of the oldest and finest prehistoric art in the world. For preservation reasons, they have been replicated in all their glory.

Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine and admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysées to the Arc de Triomphe.

Rouen: See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square and Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.

Honfleur: See this charming fishing town.

Omaha Beach: Follow the route of the Rangers, visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial.

Omaha Beach: With a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent.

Mont-Saint-Michel: Savour your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze of halls and vaults of the abbey.

Saint-Malo: Your Local Expert guides you through the streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the fortifications and explore the cities nightlife at your leisure.

Angers: See the imposing château.

Chateau d'Azay-le-Rideau: During your visit to Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, your Local Expert will show you the subtle blend of French tradition and innovative Italian decor within this 16th century icon of the Loire Valley.

Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

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Destinations

Photo of Aerial view of Saint Malo,France.Saint-Malo
View of Mediterranean luxury resort and bay with yachts. Nice, Cote d'Azur, France. Nice
Aix-en-Provence - city in FranceAix-en-Provence
Dijon - city in FranceDijon
Paris, France. Panoramic view from Arc de Triomphe. Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champs Elysees. Europe.Paris
Carcassonne - city in FranceCarcassonne
photo of Port of Deauville and city skyline in a sunny summer day, Normandy, France.Deauville
Villandry
Photo of The winter view on the montains and ski lift station in French Alps near Chamonix Mont-Blanc.Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
Monaco - city in MonacoMonaco
Photo of morning cityscape view with mountains, river and bridge in Grenoble city on the south-east of France.Grenoble
Saint-Paul-de-Vence
Albi - city in FranceAlbi
Chartres - city in FranceChartres
Avignon - city in FranceAvignon
photo of a beautiful view of Cahors as seen from Mont Saint Cyr in Lot, Midi-Pyrenees, France.Cahors
Le Mont-Saint-Michel
Annecy
Rouen - city in FranceRouen
Honfleur
Rocamadour

Map

Attractions

photo of Arboretum Gaston Allard in Angers, France.Arboretum Gaston Allard
Normandy Victory Museum - Musée de la bataille des haies, Saint-Pellerin, Carentan-les-Marais, Saint-Lô, Manche, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceNormandy Victory Museum - Musée de la bataille des haies
Pont du GardPont du Gard
Grottes de LascauxGrottes de Lascaux
photo of Champagne Taittinger is one of Champagne's most famous houses based in the city of Reims, France.Taittinger
Musée de NormandieMusée de Normandie
Photo of beautiful summer view of Louvre Museum, one of the world's most important museums, historic monument and parisian landmark, Paris, France.Louvre Museum
photo of Châteauneuf Castle in Châteauneuf from the Dijon canal in France.Châteauneuf Castle
The cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux. Antique Norman-Romanesque cathedral is located in the Bayeux, Calvados department of Normandy, France.Bayeux Cathedral
photo of Alpine Lake Lac d'Annecy (third largest lake in France) at city Annecy in evening. French Apls peaks white with snow.Lac d'Annecy
Château du RivauChâteau du Rivau
Photo of Arc de Triomphe  Early in the morning with the French flag, France.Arc de Triomphe
Photo of Eiffel Tower in Paris, France best Destinations in Europe.Eiffel Tower
The high gothic Cathedral, of our Lady, in Chartres. Inaugurated in the Year 1260. View from the South.Notre-Dame de Chartres
photo of the Roman Arles Amphitheatre in the Old Town of Arles in France.Arles Amphitheatre
Musée de l'Orangerie, Paris, FranceMusée de l'Orangerie
grignan's castleChâteau de Grignan
Photo of scenic view of Carcassone medieval city in France against summer sky.Cité de Carcassonne
Sainte-Dévote ChapelSainte-Dévote Chapel
Photo of beautiful panoramic view of famous Le Mont Saint-Michel tidal island with blue sky, northern France.Mont Saint-Michel
Musée de MontmartreMusée de Montmartre
Le Cachot, Senlis, Oise, Hauts-de-France, Metropolitan France, FranceLe Cachot

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to France

  • Paris - Arrival day
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  • Musée de l'Orangerie
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Begin your journey in the heart of France. Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner at a classic local restaurant, where you'll savor cuisine inspired by traditional country recipes.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Champagne Region, Troyes, and Dijon

  • Dijon
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  • Taittinger
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Journey through the picturesque vine-clad scenery of the Champagne region. Visit the city of Troyes, where you'll admire its medieval Old Town and enjoy a glass of champagne. On arrival in Dijon, embark on an orientation tour with your Travel Director to discover the city's charming architecture and rich history.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Dijon and Beaune

  • Dijon
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  • Châteauneuf Castle
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Spend the day exploring the Burgundy capital of Dijon, known for its historic buildings that hark back to the time when the Dukes of Burgundy were more powerful than the Kings of France. Consider a visit to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. In the evening, you may opt for a Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Mâconnais, Beaujolais, and Chamonix

  • Chamonix-Mont-Blanc
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Travel through the Mâconnais and Beaujolais regions before heading east into the Alps. As you ascend towards Mont Blanc, Western Europe's highest mountain, prepare for breathtaking views. Your destination is the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. Here, you can take a cable car for panoramic views or explore the resort at your leisure. In the evening, consider trying a traditional pierrade at a local eatery.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Annecy and Grenoble

  • Annecy
  • Grenoble
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  • Lac d'Annecy
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Embark on a journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, a medieval spectacle nestled between lake and mountains. Enjoy free time for lunch in Little Venice, known for its network of canals crisscrossing through the Old Town. Later, continue to your hotel in Grenoble. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: French Riviera and Nice

  • Nice
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Enjoy the glorious mountain scenery as you travel along a spectacular route used by Emperor Napoleon. Continue to the French Riviera and reach the elegant resort of Nice. Spend the afternoon exploring at your leisure. In the evening, consider a stroll through old town Nice, ending in Cours Saleya where dinner is at your leisure at one of the many lovely bistros.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Côte d’Azur and Monaco

  • Monaco
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  • Sainte-Dévote Chapel
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Rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Côte d’Azur. Discover the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery. Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco. Choose to visit the Oceanographic Museum or the Royal Palace of Monaco and see Monaco Cathedral. Spend the rest of the day at your own pace. You might want to join an Optional Experience to visit the medieval village of Eze and its hill-top Botanical Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Saint-Paul de Vence and Aix-en-Provence

  • Aix-en-Provence
  • Saint-Paul-de-Vence
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Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. Wander through its winding streets, admire elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls, and breathtaking views of mountains and sea. Enjoy a lesson in the French sport of pétanque, complete with a glass of pastis, a French apéritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau before heading to your hotel.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Arles, Pont du Gard, and Avignon

  • Avignon
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  • Pont du Gard
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Head to the beautiful city of Arles and learn about its historical connection to Vincent Van Gogh. Journey to Pont du Gard to see the magnificent ancient Roman aqueduct bridge. Continue on to Avignon to enjoy views of the remaining arches of the Pont d'Avignon and the fortified Papal Palace.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Chateau De Luc, Carcassonne, and Albi

  • Carcassonne
  • Albi
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  • Château de Grandval
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Drive through the Alpilles to Chateau De Luc for a wine tasting. Journey inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne, known for its UNESCO World Heritage Site fortress. Travel to Albi, the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec. During your orientation with your Travel Director, marvel at iconic sites including the views of Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the famous awe-inspiring cathedral. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Leisure Day in Albi

  • Albi
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Enjoy a full day at leisure in Albi. Relax and soak up the atmosphere of this charming town. In the evening, savor a delicious dinner of carefully selected fresh ingredients at a local restaurant.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Cahors, Rocamadour, and La Roque-Gageac

  • Rocamadour
  • Cahors
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Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentré. Explore the open-air market full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies. Travel to Rocamadour, a medieval town perched on a cliffside above the Alzou River. Later, make your way to your hotel nestled in the countryside of La Roque-Gageac.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Lascaux II and Sarlat-la-Canéda

  • Rocamadour
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  • Grottes de Lascaux
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Start the day with a morning drive into the stunning Valley of the Dordogne to visit Lascaux II, where the world-famous prehistoric cave paintings have been faithfully reproduced. Continue to the beautiful town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, its medieval core blessed with fine historic golden limestone houses. Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Journey to Paris

  • Paris
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Travel onwards to immerse yourself in the beautiful city of Paris. Upon arrival, you are free to explore this fascinating city as you wish. As evening descends, the City of Light lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour, consider joining an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Exploring Paris

  • Paris
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  • Louvre Museum
  • Arc de Triomphe
  • Eiffel Tower
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During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the Luxor obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. In the evening, celebrate your journey through France with a delicious Celebration Dinner of excellent French cuisine and wine.

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Day 16

Day 16 – Day 16: Rouen, Honfleur, and Deauville

  • Rouen
  • Honfleur
  • Deauville
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  • Évreux Cathedral
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Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy, to admire its ancient cathedral. Wander through the narrow streets beneath the Great Clock to the Old Market Square. Continue to the charming fishing town of Honfleur and to your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.

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Day 17

Day 17 – Day 17: Exploring Normandy

Day 17: Exploring Normandy

  • Église Saint-Patrice de Bayeux
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Follow the route of the Rangers and visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent near Omaha Beach. Choose between visiting the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay or visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner featuring creative cuisine, seasonal ingredients, and delicious wines.

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Day 18

Day 18 – Day 18: Mont Saint-Michel and Saint-Malo

  • Le Mont-Saint-Michel
  • Saint-Malo
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  • Mont Saint-Michel
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Journey through Bocage country for an exploration of the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. Continue along the Emerald Coast to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, to the cathedral, the burial place of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers.

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Day 19

Day 19 – Day 19: Angers Castle, Saumur, and Château de Villandry

  • Villandry
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  • Arboretum Gaston Allard
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Head south to follow the valley of the Loire, passing the moated Angers Castle. Cross the Loire to Saumur, where a local vintner will guide you through tastings of the region's delicious wines. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens. This evening, your Celebration Dinner starts with a glass of local sparkling wine and continues with excellent service and delicious Farm-to-Table dishes in the most wholesome setting.

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Day 20

Day 20 – Day 20: Château de Cheverny

Day 20: Château de Cheverny

  • Château du Rivau
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Journey to the family-owned Château de Cheverny, inhabited by the same family for over six centuries. Arrive through the forest and park lands with your Local Expert who will show you the château's decor and aristocratic costumes of the family through the centuries. Listen out for the hounds and find out about the connection with Tintin while you are there. Return to your superb château for relaxation and free time.

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Day 21

Day 21 – Day 21: Chartres Cathedral and Return to Paris

  • Paris
  • Chartres
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  • Notre-Dame de Chartres
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Travel through the vast wheat fields of the Beauce region to Chartres Cathedral, nicknamed the 'Acropolis of France'. Enjoy a guided tour of this architectural delight. From here, return to the French capital. After dark, the City of Light really lives up to its name, when the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour, consider experiencing one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

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Day 22

Day 22 – Day 22: Farewell

  • Paris - Departure day
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Today, bid farewell to your journey along the country roads of France as you transfer to the airport.

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