16 daysFrance
Consider this your ‘Tour de France’ — a 16-day guided tour that embraces the best of the country, from fortified towns and fine wines. Drive along the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco, stopping to step inside its cathedral, where Princess Grace has been laid to rest. In St Paul de Vence, play pétanque, a bocce-like sport, then celebrate your new skills with a fine French aperitif. Travel to Carcassonne, a fortified city complete with ramparts and a medieval keep. Drive through the Valley of the Dordogne, then feast on a farm-to-table dinner paired with regional wine. In Paris, embrace the City of Light’s most beloved sites: marvel at the Eiffel Tower, gaze at Louvre's glorious facades, and be driven down the posh Champs Elysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe.
After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before enjoying a dinner at a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by fresh home-made recipes.
Journey through the vine-clad scenery of the Champagne region. Admire the green shoots in spring, full summer foliage or the russet autumnal hues, this is a glorious landscape throughout the year. Visit the city of Troyes and admire the medieval Old Town with its colorful, half-timbered houses and make a stop to savor the region’s most famous export, Champagne. On arrival in Dijon, an orientation by your Travel Director reveals the charming architecture and history of the city.
Enjoy the Burgundy capital of Dijon. Its many handsome buildings recall the time when the Dukes of Burgundy were more powerful than the Kings of France. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune? In the evening, don't miss the chance of an optional Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.
A scenic symphony awaits you as you ascend into the high Alps and climb towards Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. Your destination is the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. You could take in panoramic views of the mountain peaks and valley below from the Chamonix cable car or explore this mountain resort. In the evening you may choose to try a pierrade at a local trendy eatery in a traditional chalet.
In the morning, embark on a beautiful journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, dramatically situated between lake and mountains, it's a medieval spectacle and a summer getaway for the French and the Swiss locals. Enjoy free time for lunch in Little Venice, aptly named for the network of canals criss-crossing through the Old Town. Explore the city’s many lovely bridges at your leisure. Continue on to your hotel in Grenoble. This evening, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Glorious mountain scenery will be yours to enjoy as you travel along a spectacular route, used by the Emperor Napoleon when he returned from his first exile to try to take the throne of France once more. Continue through Provence to the French Riviera to reach the elegant resort of Nice. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. In the evening, why not walk through old town Nice, ending in Cours Saleya where dinner is at your leisure at one of the many lovely bistros?
Wake up ready to rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Côte d’Azur. Unlock the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery, where fragrance experts waft exclusive scents from stoppered bottles. Then enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco and with Insight Choice enter the Oceanographic Museum dedicated to the concept of the Mediterranean Science Commission or visit the Royal Palace of Monaco and see Monaco Cathedral, housing the tomb of Princess Grace. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera at your own pace. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit the medieval village of Eze and its hill-top Botanical Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline?
Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. A walk through its winding streets reveals elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls and views of mountains and sea. Enjoy a lesson in the French sport of pétanque. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills as you take part in a game, completed by a glass of pastis, a French apéritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau and on to your hotel.
Marvel at the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before exploring the storied streets of Avignon, home to the seat of the Pope and Christianity in the 14th century. Move on to a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience at a local olive estate, where you’ll stroll through scenic groves. Learn about sustainable olive oil production from tree to table and indulge in a tasting of artisanal oils where you’ll learn to differentiate the rich palette of aromas, colors and textures. Return to your hotel in Aix-en-Provence for a free evening to relax and unwind or explore the city’s vibrant cafes and boutiques.
Begin your day in Arles, once home to the Romans and later a muse to Vincent Van Gogh, Arles’ meandering streets and classical monuments reveal layers of artistic and architectural heritage. Stroll past the Arena and the Roman Theater, where echoes of antiquity vibrate in every stone. From here, cross the fertile Languedoc region before journeying inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. Travelers are often amazed at their first sight of this medieval gem, known for its UNESCO-listed fortress with complete ramparts and a storybook keep. Continue to Albi, the birthplace of Toulouse-Lautrec, where your Travel Director will provide an orientation of key landmarks, including views of the museum dedicated to the artist and the cathedral. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Albi. Alternatively, join an Optional Experience to the hilltop villages of Puycelsi and Castelnau-de-Montmiral, finishing at a traditional French market. This evening savor a delicious dinner of carefully selected fresh ingredients at a local restaurant.
Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentré. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the open air market - full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, it's an experience to delight all of the senses. Travel to Rocamadour and enjoy free time to explore this medieval town perched on a cliffside above the Alzou River and known as a resting place for pilgrims traveling through France on the Camino de Santiago to Spain. Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.
Start the day with a morning drive into the 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 golden limestone houses. Relax this evening in the beautiful surroundings of the Dordogne region while you dine at the hotel.
Traveling through the vast wheat fields of the Beauce region, Chartres Cathedral, nicknamed the ‘Acropolis of France’ by August Rodin, looms large on the horizon. Enjoy a guided tour of this architectural delight. From here, return to the French capital where your Travel Director introduces you to the fabulous sights of Paris, including the vast Place de la Concorde, where the guillotine once stood. Travel up the Champs Élysées to Napoleon’s Arc de Triomphe. 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. This evening, savor excellent French cuisine paired with wine as you raise a glass to your journey through France.
During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the Luxor obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. For that special touch of excitement and glamour don't miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.
Today, bid farewell to your journey through the French countryside as you transfer to the airport.
Paris, France
3 nights
The Le Méridien Etoile is centrally located in the 17th arrondissement and just a short drive from key sights such as the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Elysées. Contemporary, yet comfortable furnishing bring about a homely sense throughout the hotel and guest rooms.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Concierge, Room Service, Gym, Foreign Currency Exchange, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Dijon, France
2 nights
The 5-star Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche boasts a supreme view over the prestigious Place Darcy and has been welcoming prominent world figures since the 15th century. The luxurious refined decor and timeless interior garden offer guests every comfort and privacy.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Room Service, Laundry, Gym, Spa, Foreign Currency Exchange, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Tea & coffee facilities, Wi-Fi
Chamonix, France
1 night
In the heart of Chamonix, this four-star hotel pairs alpine character with striking mountain views. A spa with sauna, hammam and Jacuzzis offers time to unwind, while the top-floor restaurant looks across the valley towards Mont Blanc for a memorable backdrop to your stay.
Hotel Spa, Restaurant, Bar
Room Wi-Fi
Grenoble, France
1 night
Positioned in a great location on the edge of Paul Mistral Park, the Park Hotel Grenoble Handwritten Collection offers comfort with contemporary style.
Hotel Bar, Laundry, Room Service, Gym, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Nice, France
2 nights
The Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice is set on a stunning seafront location along the famous Promenade des Anglais. The private beach and rooftop swimming pool are the perfect places to soak up some sun.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Concierge, Business Centre, Room Service, Laundry, Pool, Gym, Beach Access, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Safe, TV, Tea & coffee facilities, Wi-Fi
Aix-en-Provence, France
2 nights
Nestled in the heart of Aix en Provence is the Aquabella Hotel. This charming hotel is perfect for relaxing in the serene surroundings of its Mediterranean garden.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Room Service, Concierge, Gym, Pool, Spa, 24-hour Front Desk
Room Air Conditioning, Bathrobes and Slippers, Wi-Fi
Albi, France
2 nights
Hôtel Saint Antoine is centrally located with landmarks at the doorstep such as the Albi Cathedral, Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the Tarn River.
Hotel Bar, Room Service
Room Air Conditioning, TV, Wi-Fi
La Roque-Gageac, France
2 nights
Set within two hectares of grounds in the Périgord Noir, this four-star hotel offers a peaceful base near La Roque-Gageac. Two heated pools, a wellness area with sauna and hot tubs and a tennis court invite time to unwind, while traditional Périgord stone brings local character to the interiors.
Hotel Restaurant, Bar, Concierge, Pool
Room Air Conditioning, Non smoking, Safe, TV, Wi-Fi
Seine Cruise and Parisian Icons
Paid on tour
Beaune & the Burgundy Wine Road
Paid on tour
Burgundy Wine Tasting & Dinner
Paid on tour
Alpine Drive & Savoyard Dinner
Paid on tour
Nice Old Town at Night
Paid on tour
Eze & Botanical Gardens
Paid on tour
Traditional Niçoise Dinner
Paid on tour
Village in the Sky
Paid on tour
Hilltop Villages of France
Paid on tour
An Evening on the Dordogne
Paid on tour
Giverny Excursion
Paid on tour
Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner
Paid on tour
Per person, twin share
