Luxury 9-Day France Road Trip from Montpellier traveling east to Marseille, Valence, and Lyon
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Description
Escape for the holiday of a lifetime with this 9-day luxury road trip in France!
France offers the ultimate luxury holiday experience for anyone up for an unforgettable adventure, including couples, families, solo travelers, and friends.
Your exclusive luxury holiday package will bring you to the country's most popular attractions and restaurants in the best destinations in France. With this perfectly planned vacation itinerary, you will stay 3 nights in Montpellier, 2 nights in Marseille, 1 night in Valence, and 2 nights in Lyon, experiencing the ultimate luxury vacation in France.
Finding the perfect luxury lodging is going to make your vacation in France feel truly special. The home for your 9-day luxury holiday will be only the most exclusive 5-star hotels in France. You will choose from the best selection of luxury hotels and places to stay, all conveniently located along your carefully planned self-drive route.
Upon arriving in France, you will collect the luxury rental vehicle of your choice. We will provide you with the best car rental for the entirety of your 9-day luxury self-drive holiday, including CDW insurance. From there, you will drive off at a relaxed pace to discover some of the best travel destinations in France.
Throughout your exclusive vacation in France, you will get to experience some of the best attractions and activities offered in the country. Each moment promises to be filled with unforgettable memories and unique experiences.
Between attractions and activities, you will have plenty of time to stroll along the best shopping streets and markets in France. Here you can find unique souvenirs to preserve the memory of your luxury holiday in France.
This exclusive travel plan is designed to include everything you need to have the best vacation in France. By booking this luxury holiday package, you can avoid spending hours researching and planning your 9-day road trip in France. Let the experts figure out the details, so you can focus on enjoying.
To deliver the best experience possible, we make it easy for you to customize each day of your luxury holiday in France before and after booking. Our flexible trip planning means you will be able to explore Montpellier, La Grande-Motte, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, Marseille, Avignon, Valence, La Sône, Grenoble, Lyon, Vaulx-en-velin, Caluire-et-Cuire, and Nimes at your own pace.
Book with us to get access to 24/7 personal travel support throughout your entire journey. Enjoy a step-by-step guide in our easy-to-use mobile app, including all travel documents for your exclusive getaway to France.
The best flights, activities, tours, and hotels in France fill up quickly, so book your luxury vacation package in advance. Select a date and start planning your luxury holiday in France today!
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Day 1 – Montpellier - arrival day
- Montpellier - Arrival day
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- Arc de Triomphe
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Your luxury holiday in France begins as soon as you reach the city of Montpellier. There, you’ll pick up the luxury rental vehicle of your choice and hit the roads!
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Arc de Triomphe. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 6,323 visitors.
Tonight, you will be treated to a stay at one of the best luxury hotels in Montpellier. We have picked out three of the most exclusive luxury lodging and hotel options for you to choose from.
After a long day of discovering the unique quirks of France, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Montpellier so you can check out the menus and make advance reservations.
Don’t miss out on dining at Les Enfants Rouges, a top-rated dining destination in Montpellier. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Le Paresseur Restaurant | Montpellier Centre, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Fitzpatrick's Irish Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Montpellier this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Triskell Montpellier, known for its inviting atmosphere. Kraken bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Le Rebuffy provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day luxury vacation in France and look forward to more fantastic days to come!
Day 2 – Montpellier, and La Grande-Motte
- Montpellier
- La Grande-Motte
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Drive 53 km, 1 hour 37 min
- Sunset Beach
- Planet Ocean World
- Comedy Square
- esplanade Charles de Gaulle
- Jardin des plantes de Montpellier
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On day 2 of your luxurious vacation in France, you’ll start and end your day in Montpellier, but spend most of the day exploring attractions outside of the city. After a long day of sightseeing, you'll drive back to Montpellier, where you'll stay for 1 night more.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Planet Ocean World. This aquarium is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,786 reviews.
Continue your journey at Comedy Square. This square is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 11,883 travelers from near and far.
Montpellier is also the home of esplanade Charles de Gaulle. This square has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 8,915 visitors.
You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Jardin des plantes de Montpellier. Rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 6,446 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.
When you’ve had your share of Montpellier, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of La Grande-Motte. Your travel time is around 33 min.
When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Sunset Beach. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars in 5,416 reviews.
When you’ve completed everything you want to see and do, you will drive back to your luxury accommodation in Montpellier.
Discover a world of culinary delights in Montpellier, where top-notch dining experiences await at every corner. Consider whether you need to make a reservation in advance to secure a table at your preferred restaurant.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Montpellier by securing a table at Jardin des Sens. An esteemed 1-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional modern menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit Reflet d'Obione, famous for its scrumptious modern, and mediterranean dishes. This 1-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Leclère, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Montpellier. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Black Out, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Le Petit Nice offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Montpellier. Espit Chupitos Montpellier is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in France has plenty more in store for you.
Day 3 – Montpellier, Arles, Les Baux-de-Provence, and Marseille
- Marseille
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
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Drive 194 km, 3 hours 26 min
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Wake up to day 3 of your luxury road trip holiday in France! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Marseille, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Arles, and Les Baux-de-Provence.
Set your GPS to Arles and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 12 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arles beckons with new experiences!
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Roman Theatre of Arles. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 1,900 reviews.
Next up, make your way to Arles Amphitheatre. This roman amphitheatre has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 13,060 reviews.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Les Baux-de-Provence.
Make Château des Baux-de-Provence your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 13,346 reviews.
Next up, make a stop at Carrières des Lumières. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 22,791 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this point of interest every year.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Montpellier, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Arles may take around 1 hour 12 min. Upon your arrival in Arles, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
An excellent attraction to start your day with is Alpilles Natural Regional Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 8,184 reviews.
Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Marseille. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.
After a day filled with travel and exploration, we recommend you treat yourself to a meal or a drink at the finest restaurants and bars in Marseille. Savor the local cuisine and relax as you recount the day's experiences.
Experience a taste of local culinary excellence while in Marseille by securing a table at Le Petit Nice. An esteemed 3-star Michelin restaurant, it features an exceptional seafood menu. For an alternative taste experience, visit AM par Alexandre Mazzia, famous for its scrumptious creative dishes. This 3-star Michelin venue consistently impresses guests, making it a standout addition to your holiday plans. Looking for another choice? Discover Signature, a local favorite celebrated for its exquisite modern cuisine in Marseille. Located in the heart of the city, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is an ideal pick for modern cuisine lovers seeking top-notch culinary experiences.
Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Le Traquenard, a prime destination for a thrilling night out. Also, don’t forget to check out La dame du mont, a bar that offers unique local touches. Likewise, Polikarpov provides an excellent alternative for a fun evening.
Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your luxury holiday in France has plenty more in store for you.
Day 4 – Marseille
- Marseille
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Drive 40 km, 1 hour 45 min
- Calanques National Park
- Parc Borély
- Basilica of Notre-Dame of la Garde
- Cathédrale La Major
- Palais Longchamp
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Day 4 of your luxury road trip in France begins and concludes in the city of Marseille. Set out by car to explore incredible attractions in the nearby area. After a day filled with sightseeing, you'll return to Marseille, where you still have 1 night nights remaining.
Start your sightseeing with a visit to Calanques National Park. This park is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Marseille, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 19,632 visitors.
Parc Borély is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,618 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.
If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Notre-Dame de la Garde (Marseille). Visitors have rated this church building an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 36,436 reviews.
Marseille Cathedral is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a catholic cathedral rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 12,714 reviews.
Make your way to the fantastic Palais Longchamp, perhaps the most famous water tower in Marseille. This attraction is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 12,768 travelers.
After a long day of discovering the unique quirks of France, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely meal or enjoy a refreshing drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended dining and drinking spots in Marseille so you can check out the menus and make advance reservations.
Dine in style at AM par Alexandre Mazzia, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Une Table au Sud boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Coogee. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Marseille.
After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Au Petit Nice, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Bar Marengo. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at L'unic Bar, another top-rated place in the area.
Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in France with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.
Day 5 – Marseille, Avignon, and Valence
- Valence
- Marseille
- Avignon
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Drive 234 km, 3 hours 8 min
- Les Petits Trains de Marseille
- Old Port of Marseille
- Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean
- Pont d'Avignon
- Palais des Papes
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On day 5 of your luxury holiday in France, your road trip route will take you exploring the best of Marseille, and Avignon. The day's journey will conclude in Valence, a town that offers you comfort and relaxation for 1 night. With a day brimming with amazing attractions ahead, fuel up with a hearty breakfast to savor every moment of your luxury vacation in France.
Take the opportunity to see Les Petits Trains de Marseille. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 9,053 visitors.
Old Port of Marseille is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This seaport has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 4,120 travelers.
Marseille is also the home of Mucem - Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean. Around 19,446 people have rated this museum an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Marseille, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Avignon. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 8 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
Take the opportunity to see Pont Saint-Benezet (Le Pont d'Avignon). This attraction has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 17,658 visitors.
Palais des Papes is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This palace has been rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 36,931 travelers. Up to 616,210 people visit Palais des Papes every year.
Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Valence. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.
After exploring the unique sights of France, savor a delicious meal or get refreshed with a drink. We’ve gathered the most recommended restaurants and bars in the town of Valence for you so you can browse their menus in advance and make a reservation.
Begin your culinary exploration in Valence by securing a reservation at Pic. This renowned restaurant holds 3 Michelin star and offers an exceptional menu of creative cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Flaveurs, celebrated for its delectable modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover La Cachette, a top local spot known for its tantalizing creative menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.
Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in France with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.
Day 6 – Valence, La Sône, Grenoble, and Lyon
- Lyon
- La Sône
- Grenoble
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Drive 254 km, 4 hours 2 min
- Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille
- Bastille
- Museum of Grenoble
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Wake up to day 6 of your luxury holiday in France! Remember to have a hearty breakfast because today will be filled with memorable adventures in La Sône, and Grenoble. With a flexible itinerary, you're free to adapt and explore additional attractions or enjoy spontaneous discoveries.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Valence, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to La Sône may take around 40 min. Upon your arrival in La Sône, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Drop by the renowned Fontaines Pétrifiantes Garden. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 3,128 visitors.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of La Sône, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Grenoble may take around 52 min. Upon your arrival in Grenoble, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Be one of the day’s first visitors at Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,504 visitors.
When you’re finished at Museum of the French Revolution - Domaine de Vizille, head to Fort de La Bastille. This one-of-a-kind park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,303 reviews.
Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, you also have the opportunity to visit Musée de Grenoble. This museum is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 3,100 visitors.
Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Lyon. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.
After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Lyon. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.
Enjoy an outstanding dining experience at Takao Takano, a 2-star Michelin restaurant offering an exceptional creative menu. If you are in the mood for trying an alternative dining experience, consider visiting the nearby 2-star Michelin-awardee, Le Neuvième Art, known for its delicious creative, and modern cuisine. Another highly-recommended restaurant in Lyon is Mère Brazier, a renowned restaurant with a 2-star Guide Michelin recognition, known for its delicious classic menu.
After your meal, keep the night alive at a bar like L' Antiquaire, known for its lively atmosphere. Black Forest Society is another top recommendation that provides the perfect setting with well-crafted drinks and a welcoming ambiance. Similarly, The James Joyce Pub offers an excellent atmosphere for those looking to amp up the evening.
Reminisce about your day, look through photos, and prepare for another great day to come! Your stress-free luxury holiday in France has plenty more in store for you.
Day 7 – Lyon, Vaulx-en-velin, and Caluire-et-Cuire
- Lyon
- Vaulx-en-Velin
- Caluire-et-Cuire
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Drive 40 km, 1 hour 39 min
- parc de la Tête d'Or
- Place Bellecour
- Lyon Cathedral
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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On day 7 of your luxury road trip in France, you’ll start and end your day in the city of Lyon, but jump in the car to visit amazing attractions in the nearby area. After a day of sightseeing, you'll drive back to Lyon, where you still have 1 night left.
Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Place Bellecour. This extraordinary square is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 20,560 visitors.
Next, make your way to Lyon Cathedral. This top attraction is a catholic cathedral with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,228 visitors.
We also recommend a visit to Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This minor basilica is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 25,765 travelers.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Caluire-et-Cuire, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Vaulx-en-velin to Caluire-et-Cuire may take around 16 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Caluire-et-Cuire, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take the opportunity to see Grand Parc Miribel Jonage. This attraction has an average rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 12,314 visitors.
When you’ve had your share of Vaulx-en-velin, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Caluire-et-Cuire. Your travel time is around 16 min.
Kick off the day at parc de la Tête d'Or, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 50,621 reviews.
When you’re done exploring the best attractions, you’ll drive back to your luxury accommodation near the city of Lyon.
After a full day of exploring, treat yourself to a delightful dinner or a refreshing drink at the best spots in Lyon. Choose from a selection of excellent restaurants and bars and find the perfect place for your evening.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cactus Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, L Bar food & drink is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Flair Restaurant. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Lyon tonight.
Keep the excitement of the evening going by visiting a bar or two. Broc'Bar is an excellent place to start. You could also check out The Phantom of the Opera, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Bar Le Florian, Cocktails & Spirits. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.
Celebrate another great day of your luxury holiday in France with a toast! Enjoy a great night’s sleep at your lovely hotel and get ready for another fun day to come.
Day 8 – Lyon, Nimes, and Montpellier
- Montpellier
- Nîmes
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Drive 320 km, 3 hours 58 min
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Carré d'Art
- Museum Romanité
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Wake up to day 8 of your luxury road trip holiday in France! Today, you will get the opportunity to visit multiple fantastic bucket-list destinations in the country as you head towards the city of Montpellier, where you'll be staying for 1 night. The day's itinerary unfolds with a diverse array of experiences in Nimes.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Nimes and set your GPS to Montpellier. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 49 min. Upon reaching Montpellier, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.
Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Espeisses Woods. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 1,395 visitors.
Next, make your way to Jardin de La Fontaine. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 15,878 reviews.
While in Nimes, we also recommend a visit to Carré d'Art. This museum has been rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,211 reviews.
If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Musée de la Romanité. This attraction gets around 25,271 yearly visitors. With an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,534 travelers, this museum is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Nimes.
Relax and unwind in style as you spend the night at one of the top luxury hotels in Montpellier. Recharge after a day of exploring, enjoying luxurious comfort and serene surroundings.
In Montpellier, delicious dining experiences are never far from reach. Take your pick and consider whether you need to book a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at La Diligence, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try DELI'S COFFEE? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Le 1789 Restaurant - Bar as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Montpellier.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your luxury holiday in France!
Day 9 – Montpellier - departure day
- Montpellier - Departure day
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- Aqueduc Saint-Clément
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Today is the last day of your 9-day luxury holiday in France and it’s soon time to start your journey home. This is your chance to get one last glimpse of Montpellier before saying goodbye.
On your last day in France, take time to indulge in shopping at Montpellier’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Make the most of what's left of your luxury vacation and head out to the stunning Aqueduc Saint-Clément. This extraordinary aqueduct and attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 1,224 reviews, and is an excellent choice for your last sightseeing in Montpellier.
Treat yourself to a final feast. Savor the unique flavors of Montpellier one last time before you head to the airport.
You will then say farewell to Montpellier and begin your journey home. We wish you safe travels and a warm welcome home, with unforgettable memories and incredible photos from your luxury holiday in France in your luggage!
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