Highlights of France
Prepare to fall head over heels for France on this 13-day journey through its most enchanting regions. Wander the vineyard-laden Loire Valley, bask in the glamour of the French Riviera, and uncover the charm of historic towns from Beaune to Bordeaux. Explore medieval Carcassonne, learn about WWII history in Normandy, and let the beauty of France’s scenic landscapes steal your heart.
- 26 Jun 2026 – 08 Jul 2026
from $3,802.50 pp twin share * - 10 Jul 2026 – 22 Jul 2026
from $3,532.50 pp twin share * - 04 Sep 2026 – 16 Sep 2026
from $3,825 pp twin share * - 11 Sep 2026 – 23 Sep 2026
from $3,735 pp twin share * - 25 Sep 2026 – 07 Oct 2026
from $4,150 pp twin share * - 09 Apr 2027 – 21 Apr 2027
from $3,865.50 pp twin share * - 23 Apr 2027 – 05 May 2027
from $3,865.50 pp twin share * - 07 May 2027 – 19 May 2027
from $4,350 pp twin share * - 14 May 2027 – 26 May 2027
from $3,915 pp twin share * - 28 May 2027 – 09 Jun 2027
from $4,350 pp twin share * - 11 Jun 2027 – 23 Jun 2027
from $3,915 pp twin share * - 25 Jun 2027 – 07 Jul 2027
from $4,450 pp twin share * - 09 Jul 2027 – 21 Jul 2027
from $4,005 pp twin share * - 23 Jul 2027 – 04 Aug 2027
from $4,450 pp twin share * - 06 Aug 2027 – 18 Aug 2027
from $4,005 pp twin share * - 20 Aug 2027 – 01 Sep 2027
from $4,450 pp twin share * - 27 Aug 2027 – 08 Sep 2027
from $4,350 pp twin share * - 03 Sep 2027 – 15 Sep 2027
from $3,915 pp twin share * - 10 Sep 2027 – 22 Sep 2027
from $4,350 pp twin share * - 17 Sep 2027 – 29 Sep 2027
from $3,915 pp twin share * - 24 Sep 2027 – 06 Oct 2027
from $4,350 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrive Paris:
It’s time to explore Paris’s grand past, its dynamic present and exciting future. This is one capital city that doesn’t hold back and doesn’t expect you to either. Dive right into the history, culture and culinary delights of this extraordinary city, from the iconic Iron Lady to croque monsieurs, lazing on the banks of the Seine, or visiting museums and monuments. After checking in there’s time to relax or explore the city your way, but you might like to get a head start on your sightseeing by joining a Choice Experience – a Seine cruise and scenic drive taking in many of the major sights. - Day 2 – Paris sightseeing and free time:
The Parisians know a thing or two about beauty, elegance and a life well lived, which your full day in Paris will deliver in abundance. Hit the grand boulevards on a city sightseeing tour through the heart of the city conducted by your Travel Director. See the Arc de Triomphe and Champs Élysées, then perhaps choose to tread in the footsteps of Picasso and Dalí during an optional visit to Montmartre, exploring the cobbled streets and Artist’s Square. Enjoy an optional dinner experience this evening. - Day 3 – Paris – Beaune – Lyon:
Au revoir Paris. The City of Light will keep shining, but for now your sights are set on medieval Beaune where the official raison d’être is the local wine. The beautiful marketplace and 15th-century Hôtel-Dieu are yours to explore before later continuing your journey to Lyon. Get your bearings during an orientation tour, then perhaps consider joining a Choice Experience delving into the rich history of the city and the classical French cuisine that helped make it famous. - Day 4 – Lyon – Aix-en-Provence – Monaco – French Riviera:
Follow the Rhône Valley south and enjoy some free time in the Provençal town of Aix-en-Provence, founded by the Romans over natural hot springs. The last leg of your journey southwards stretches out to the shimmering Mediterranean coast, where the Principality of Monaco and the Côte d’Azur await. Keep your cameras at the ready as you drive along its elegant boulevards and attempt to capture the sophistication that seems to ooze from every corner. - Day 5 – French Riviera free day:
Ooh là là! A full free day on the French Riviera. There’s no shame in spending the day sprawled out on a sun-lounger with a cocktail, but if you can pull yourself away from the beach you’ll want to join your fellow travellers for an optional exploration of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Life is rather idyllic in this enchanting walled hill-town and, like some of its famous residents, you’ll want to linger here a little longer. You never know who you might spot seated in those sleek Ferraris and private yachts that dot the French Riviera. - Day 6 – French Riviera – Arles – Pont du Gard – Avignon:
Fuel up the French way with croissant and coffee before heading west to Arles, where Roman history and Van Gogh colour make a brilliant double act. Add a Choice Experience and follow in the artist’s footsteps through the streets, squares and riverside spots that helped inspire his bold brushstrokes. Next, view the Pont du Gard, a first-century aqueduct that’s still standing tall after 2,000 years. Then continue to Avignon in the heart of Provence, where papal palaces, medieval walls and old-town charm bring the day to a pretty grand close. - Day 7 – Avignon – Carcassonne – Lourdes:
Like a scene straight from the pages of a children’s storybook, Carcassonne stands proudly on a hillside behind fortified stone walls. Its undeniable charm is evident when you come across the town’s 12th century architecture and turreted medieval castle. From fairy tales to the foothills of the Pyrénées, your next stop is the town of Lourdes where you’ll tread in the footsteps of the millions of pilgrims, who have made the journey to pay homage to St. Bernadette and view the basilica on top of the Grotto where she is said to have seen visions of the Virgin Mary. This evening presents an opportunity to join a procession by torchlight with the pilgrims – a truly magical and moving experience. - Day 8 – Lourdes – Biarritz – Bordeaux:
The beach is back on the agenda today, so get your hat and sunglasses ready for a trip to the glamorous seaside town of Biarritz on the Atlantic coast. There’s no need to think about what to do next. Take your cue from the European royals who have been visiting this resort town since the 1800s and find your new favourite spot on a wicker chair in the sun. If watching local surfers perform their stunts isn’t enticing enough, you could choose a Choice Experience into the Basque country. After a good dose of sun, sea and lofty peaks, it’s back into the rolling countryside of Les Landes and onwards to our final destination of the day, Bordeaux. - Day 9 – Bordeaux – Saint-Émilion – Tours:
After a night sampling Bordeaux blends and the city’s eclectic mix of street life and well-preserved 18th century architecture, a new adventure awaits. The hilltop village of Saint-Émilion is an appealing stop for red wine lovers. This is château country and there’s no better way to explore it than joining an optional wine tasting at a historic vineyard. Continue to your hotel by the city of Tours, known as the gateway to the Loire Valley. - Day 10 – Loire Valley and Châteaux excursion:
Indulge your inner king or queen when you embark on a whimsical tour of Château de Chenonceau with a Local Guide. This enchanting, fairy-tale château straddling the Cher River is the most photographed sight in the Loire Valley and it’s easy to see why. Explore its priceless collections of Renaissance art and furniture and stroll through the exquisite landscaped gardens before continuing to the royal town of Amboise where Leonardo da Vinci is said to be buried. Your encounter with French nobility not quite at its end, you’ll view the splendid Château de Chambord, one of the world’s most remarkable châteaux. Make the most of your last night back in Tours with an Optional Experience to visit the Old Town and enjoy Touraine cuisine in a traditional restaurant. - Day 11 – Tours – Mont Saint-Michel – D-Day Landing Beaches (Omaha) – Deauville:
Only the epic sight of a medieval town rising out of the sea could compete with the beauty of the Loire Valley and your visit to Mont Saint-Michel will certainly not disappoint. Hear how the Archangel inspired the Bishop of Avranches to build a church atop this rocky outcrop, then continue your journey to the iconic D-Day landing beaches where thousands of Allied soldiers first landed on French soil, in what became the largest seaborne invasion in history. After a poignant stop at the Normandy American Cemetery at Omaha Beach, you’ll continue on to your hotel in Deauville. This elegant resort is renowned for its racecourse, harbour and high-profile international film festival held in September. - Day 12 – Deauville – Honfleur – Rouen – Paris:
You’ll wish you had the talents of Monet during your brief visit to the colourful port town of Honfleur. It’s easy to see why this ‘most ravishing spot in the world’ was immortalised on canvas by many of the world’s greatest artists. Next head to Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Despite this tragic episode, there’s much to fall in love with here, from the cobbled streets to Gothic churches and the impressive cathedral. After a busy day engaging with all that history, return to the glittering French capital for the final evening of your adventure. Consider joining an Optional Experience dinner and a cabaret performance for a celebration of your memorable journey with new friends. - Day 13 – Depart Paris:
And just like that, you’ve seen all the highlights of France. From Paris and beyond, you’ll be finishing your trip this morning with a lifetime’s supply of memories. Say a fond au revoir to your Travel Director and newfound friends.
Highlights
- Wander the vineyard-laden Loire Valley.
- Uncover the charm of historic towns from Beaune to Bordeaux.
- Explore medieval Carcassonne and Normandy’s WWII history.
Prepare to fall head over heels for France on this 13-day journey through its most enchanting regions. Wander the vineyard-laden Loire Valley, bask in the glamour of the French Riviera, and uncover the charm of historic towns from Beaune to Bordeaux. Explore medieval Carcassonne, learn about WWII history in Normandy, and let the beauty of France’s scenic landscapes steal your heart.
Inclusions
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver.
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted.
- City orientation tours.
- Audio headsets are provided throughout your holiday to enhance your included sightseeing experiences.
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries.
- Extensive variety of Choice Experiences.
FAQs
- Ibis Avignon Sud
- Ibis Cannes Mandelieu
- Ibis Centre Mériadeck
- Ibis Deauville Centre
- Ibis Styles Hotel Lyon Confluence
- Ibis Tours Centre Gare
- Mercure Imperial
- Mercure Paris Porte d’Orleans
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 13 days and 12 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 26 Jun 2026 and 06 Oct 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Are discounts available?
Seasonal or loyalty discounts may be available on selected departures at the time of enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
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