Magnificent France ( 10 days )

Kick off your French adventure in the scenic south, heading to the Loire Valley. Our first stop is the charming city of Blois, where the magnificent Blois Castle awaits exploration. We then proceed to Tours, the regional capital nestled on the Loire River banks. After a leisurely stroll and lunch, we visit the enchanting Chateau de Villandry, renowned for its stunning gardens. The day concludes in the medieval city of Amboise, where dinner is served.

Day three takes us from Limoges to the Dordogne region, known for its charming villages and picturesque countryside. We visit the Lascaux Caves, where a museum and replica of the caves offer a glimpse into prehistoric times. Next, we explore Sarlat, a world heritage town with a well-preserved Renaissance historic center. We then proceed to Beynac to visit its medieval castle, followed by a visit to Rocamadour, a stunning medieval village with an important sanctuary. We recommend a walk down the via crucis, followed by a lift ride back up. Dinner is included.

Day five is dedicated to exploring Bordeaux, a world heritage city. Marvel at the 'water mirror', stroll through the old town, and visit the 11th-century cathedral. We include a visit to the Cité du Vin, an interactive museum that narrates the history of wine production, with a wine tasting session at the viewpoint over Bordeaux. After lunch, we head towards the Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes in the mid-afternoon. We recommend attending the candle procession at the sanctuary. Dinner is included.

Day seven showcases some of the most beautiful places in Provence. We start in Arles, a world heritage city with a rich Roman and medieval legacy. We then visit Les Baux, a small medieval village, where we include admission to the Carrieres de Lumiere, an impressive underground art, image, and sound show. After lunch and a stroll in Avignon, we continue to Lyon, where we include a cable car ride to Notre Dame de Fourviere for a panoramic view of the city. Please note that if the Carrieres de Lumiere show is not available due to closure or influx of public, we will alternatively visit the Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard.

Day eight takes us from Lyon to the Burgundy region. We stop at Tournus, a quaint town with a large abbey, before heading to Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. After lunch, we visit the 15th-century Castle of Savigny, which houses extraordinary museums. We then continue to Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, known for its lively streets and numerous medieval and Renaissance buildings.

On day nine, we leave Dijon for Fontenay Abbey, a world heritage site. We then stop in Semur en Auxois, a medieval city surrounded by impressive walls. Still in Burgundy, we have lunch and a stroll in Vezelay, one of France's most beautiful villages. In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Paris, arriving in the evening.