When France comes to mind, images of Paris often take center stage—its legendary skyline graced by the Eiffel Tower, the timeless majesty of Notre-Dame, the majesty  of the Arc de Triomphe, the treasures of the Louvre, and a constellation of other iconic landmarks. While Paris is undeniably the crown jewel of any French journey, the true soul of France extends far beyond its bustling capital. Exploring smaller cities reveals areas with ancient and medieval architecture, as well as landscapes of rolling hills and green valleys where villages with half-timbered houses and cobblestone lanes are located. Majestic castles, elegant palaces, and grand châteaux punctuate the countryside, each whispering tales from centuries past. France’s storied past stretches from the days of Rome, through the formidable strongholds and soaring towers of the Middle Ages, to the opulent reigns of monarchs like Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, and on to the seismic changes of the French Revolution and the dramatic rise of Napoleon Bonaparte.

 

Travel with us as we explore this beautiful country, visiting many of these charming sites and meeting the people who are welcoming and gracious, contrary to their reputation.

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ITINERARY

 

Day 1

Overnight flight to Paris

 

Day 2

Arrive Paris

A brief coach tour of Paris before checking into our hotel

 

Day  3

Today we will visit the Louvre, stroll through the Latin Quarter where we will have lunch and end the day with a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral.  We will return to our hotel by 5:30 PM

 

Day 4

 Your third day in Paris starts with a trip to Versailles to explore the grand Palace and its beautiful gardens, followed by an evening visit to the Eiffel Tower and a dinner cruise on the Seine. 

 

Day  5

There is still so much more to see as we will continue our coach and walking tour of Paris.  This afternoon we will attend a crepe cooking class so don’t eat too much lunch.  After our class you will have free time to explore on your own or with the group, or simple relax at a sidewalk café.

 

Days 6 & 7

Today we leave Paris for the French coast to visit Utah and Omaha Beaches, scene of the American D-Day invasion. Some of the sites we will visit include St. Mere Eglise, Dead Man's Corner, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery.

 

Day  8

This morning, we set out on a journey toward one of France’s most iconic landmarks—Mont Saint-Michel.  Upon arrival we will stroll along the shoreline where we can really see the grandeur of Mont Saint-Michel. Next we journey through the picturesque landscapes of the Loire Valley.   Gazing out the windows of our coach we gather glimpses of charming villages and majestic châteaux rising above the vineyards. Upon arrival in Angers, we'll step out to explore its medieval streets, discovering the rich history, vibrant markets, and see the  Angers Castle that guards the city.

 

Day 9

Today, we will experience the grandeur of 17th and 18th century French aristocracy as we tour the Chateau de Chambord and the Chateau de Chenonceau.  Afterwards, we will take a cruise on the Chenonceau River.

 

Day 10

Today we drive to Lyon the third-largest city in France, perched at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers.  The Old Town (Vieux Lyon) is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and hidden passageways called traboules, originally created to allow silk workers to move their valuable goods under cover during inclement weather.

 

Day 11

Avignon is a historic city in Provence, France, which has gained UNESCO heritage status. Wandering through Avignon, you are drawn into a tapestry of winding cobblestone lanes, shaded squares, and vibrant markets. The city’s architectural splendor extends beyond its papal palace; Gothic churches, elegant mansions, and quaint cafés line the streets, revealing layers of history and culture at every turn. Whether you’re admiring the sights or savoring local specialties in a bustling bistro, Avignon offers an unforgettable blend of medieval grandeur and modern vitality.

 

Day 12

This morning, our tour of Avignon continues with a visit to the remarkable Palais des Papes—a gateway into the heart of medieval drama and ecclesiastical intrigue. Later, we journey to the awe-inspiring aqueduct Pont du Gard, a marvel of Roman engineering. A short drive takes us to Uzès, a town that may lie in the shadow of neighbors like Avignon and Nimes yet gives you an authentic glimpse into France’s storied heartland. At its center stands the Duché, a breathtaking ducal palace, its storybook towers and thousand-year history watching over cobbled streets and sun-dappled squares.

 

Day 13

This morning, we drive to Marseilles where we will have a free day.  There are so many things to see and do in Marseilles and you can do it on your own or stay with the larger group as we explore the city, which will surly involve shopping, eating and relaxing at a sidewalk café.

 

Day 14

Coach transfer to airport

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