French Passion

Kickstart your journey with an early departure from Paris towards Normandy. Our first stop is the charming village of Giverny, where we visit Monet’s House and its stunning gardens. Immerse yourself in the world of Impressionist art before we move on to Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Here, you have time to explore the medieval streets and enjoy lunch. Our journey continues to Arromanches, a poignant reminder of the World War II landings in France. The day concludes in Caen, where you can enjoy some leisure time in the central district.

Day two takes us to the awe-inspiring Mont Saint Michel, where you have time to explore the Abbey nestled on an island. We then journey through the Bretagne region, stopping at Saint Malo, a city defended by powerful walls. After lunch, we continue to the charming Breton village of Dinan. The day concludes in Rennes, the capital of Bretagne, where you can explore its monumental historic center.

Day five takes us to the Dordogne region, known for its charming villages and unforgettable countryside. We visit the Lascaux Caves, where we learn about the site’s prehistory with the magnificent cave paintings. We then explore Sarlat, a world heritage town with a well-preserved Renaissance historic center. In Beynac, we visit a medieval castle overlooking the river. The day concludes in Rocamadour, a beautiful medieval village with an important sanctuary. Dinner is included.

Day seven is dedicated to exploring Bordeaux, a city declared a world heritage site. Marvel at the 'water mirror' and stroll through the old town with its pedestrian streets and 11th-century cathedral. We visit the Cité du Vin, an impressive interactive museum that recounts the history of wine and its production. After lunch, we continue towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes in the mid-afternoon. Here, we recommend attending the candle procession. Dinner is included.

Day nine is dedicated to exploring some of the most beautiful places in Provence. We start with Arles, a world heritage city that boasts a rich Roman and medieval heritage. We then visit Les Beaux, a small medieval village, where we include admission to the Carrieres de Lumiere, an impressive show of art, image, and sound. After lunch and a stroll in Avignon, we continue to Lyon, where we explore the World Heritage Site old town and take a cable car to Notre Dame de Fourviere for a panoramic view of the city.

Day ten takes us from Lyon to the Burgundy region. We stop at Tournus, a quaint little town with an imposing stone gate and a large abbey. We then travel to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, where you have time for lunch and exploration. We recommend visiting the wine museum or the historic hospice. Next, we visit the Castle of Savigny, located in the heart of this winemaking region. The day concludes in Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, known for its lively streets and numerous medieval and Renaissance buildings.

Day twelve begins with time in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace and the seat of the European Parliament. We include a boat trip through the canals of Petite France and a visit to a traditional Champagne cellar in Epernay, the capital of Champagne. Here, we learn the secrets of the most famous sparkling drink in the world. The day concludes with our return to Paris in the evening.