Ah Paris! Audrey Hepburn described it best when she said 'Paris is always a good idea'. We’re sure you’ll agree. After checking in, hit the streets and explore the city your way, perhaps seeking out delicious French flavours at a local café. Later, meet your Travel Director for a glimpse into what lies ahead and then why not discover why Paris is so deserving of its title, the 'City of Light' by joining an optional tour through the maze of streets in Montmartre, where the talents of great artists and writers were once nurtured.
Retrace the steps of one of France’s beloved daughters, St. Joan of Arc, when you visit medieval Rouen today. Here you’ll view the city’s impressive cathedral whose towers, statues and pinnacles were favourite subjects in the paintings of French Impressionist, Claude Monet. There’s time to stretch your legs along Honfleur’s colourful 17th-century harbour before heading to Deauville. With its racecourse and high-profile international film festival, this handsome resort town has long been a playground for well-heeled Parisians.
Begin your day with a moving visit to the D-Day Landing beaches and American cemetery at Omaha Beach. Today the views may be serene, but you can’t help thinking back to that summer day in 1944 when thousands of Allied soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice to reclaim Europe. After this incredibly humbling experience, continue on to UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel, which seems to rise magically up from the sea at high tide. The spire of the Abbey seems to almost touch the heavens, crowned with a golden statue of the Archangel, who legend has it ordered the construction of the chapel in this unusual island location. Arriving in Rennes later, you have a free evening to explore the city as you wish.
Today we head into châteaux country, where elegant estates and manicured gardens dot the countryside near the Loire River as it meanders through the heart of France. You’ll soon see why this scenic area has attracted French aristocracy for centuries. Discover Saumur, sitting elegantly astride the Loire and home to France’s national equestrian school. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit the magnificent château and gardens of Villandry. Then it's on to the city of Tours, not only the former capital of France and beautiful gateway to the Loire Valley, but also heaven for foodies as you’ll have an opportunity to discover on your free evening. Raise a glass to good food and good friends by joining an Optional Experience dinner in the Loire Valley.
All that glitters really is gold which you’ll come to discover as you explore the fairy-tale châteaux of the Loire Valley today. Your first stop is at Château d'Amboise whose art and architecture were both inspired by the Italian Renaissance. Join an optional guided tour delving into the life of Renaissance master Leonardo da Vinci, including a visit to the Manor House and gardens where he spent his last years. The next jewel to admire is stylish Chenonceau, straddling the Cher River. Join your Local Specialist for a whimsical tour of this 16th-century château and its garden, a pleasure palace deserving of its nickname the “château of the ladies”. Admire the priceless collections of Renaissance art and furniture and its extraordinary collection of 16th-century tapestries before returning to your hotel in Tours where you’ll enjoy dinner tonight.
There’s another château in store this morning as you begin your return journey to Paris. We’ve saved the biggest for last and you’ll be dazzled by the views of the grand Château de Chambord and its surrounding forest. Imagine royal hunting parties combing the woods for wild game as you wind your way north past orchards, vineyards, cathedrals and châteaux. Later you’ll arrive in Paris in time to enjoy a memorable Optional Experience this evening featuring dinner and a dazzling cabaret show. It's the perfect way to spend the first of your two nights in the French capital, indulging in its legendary nightlife and making lasting memories with new friends.
This morning enjoy a sightseeing tour of Paris with your Travel Director, taking in the Eiffel Tower and grand Champs-Élysées as well as the iconic Arc de Triomphe, honouring those who fought and died for France over the centuries. Then there’s time to discover Paris your way. Take a stroll through the medieval Latin Quarter with a Local Specialist during an Optional Experience or perhaps simply people-watch at a sidewalk bistro. This evening enjoy a final dinner with your travelling companions in this incomparable city.
Your whirlwind adventure through France has come to an end. You’ve seen medieval cities, walked in the footsteps of saints, soldiers and noblemen, and immersed yourself in the art, culture, history and cuisine of northern France – just enough to whet your appetite for another visit. Say a fond au revoir to your Travel Director and newfound friends. Find out more about your airport transfer at costsavertour.com/transfers.
Prices shown are per person based on two people sharing a twin room. To request a personalized travel quote, click "Request Quote" and a Travel Specialist will send your custom quote including airfare if requested.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
Available on Day 1
Dominated by the soaring Sacre Coeur Basilica, Montmartre is a must-visit destination in Paris. Join a Local Specialist to explore the winding streets, unusual galleries and world-famous Artist’s Square - once home to the works of Toulouse Lautrec and Picasso. With time to browse, barter for original art and taste local cuisine, this tour uncovers the true joy of the Montmartre lifestyle.
Adult Price: € 37
Available on Day 4
Santé! Make the most of your travels through this picturesque part of France and toast our new-found friends, enjoying a typical French meal in an atmospheric setting. Known for outstanding wine, delicious food and old-world charm, the Loire Valley is the perfect setting for an elegant evening out with your travel companions. Drinks are included.
Adult Price: € 69
Available on Day 4
A jewel of the Renaissance era nestled on the banks of the Loire, your Local Specialist will transport you back to the 16th Century as you discover the chateau’s stunning interior. Next, we’ll enjoy VIP entry to the Loire Valley’s best-kept secret; the avant-garde magnificence of France’s most beautiful gardens as you stroll through the Gardens of Sun, Water, Music and Love.
Adult Price: € 43
Available on Day 5
Truly one of the giants of history, Leonard da Vinci left behind many marvelous treasures in the Manor house and gardens where he spent his final years, close to his patron: King Francis the First. Our Local Specialist will reveal some of da Vinci's most extraordinary inventions, from submarines to helicopters, as we explore the must-visit grounds of the Manor du Clos Lucé.
Adult Price: € 39
Available on Day 6
No tour of Paris is complete until you’ve enjoyed dinner and cabaret at the world-famous Moulin Rouge! The original Parisian cabaret, immortalized in film by Baz Luhrmann, boasts 60 dancers and entertainers, with more than 1000 costumes to admire as you take in the spectacular show. With wine and champagne included, you’ll toast to an unforgettable evening in Paris.
Adult Price: € 165
Available on Day 7
Experience the world-famous 'City of Lights' as Paris transforms in the evening. Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the River Seine, taking in views of iconic Parisian sights such as Grand Palais and the Eiffel Tower. Later, kick back for a relaxing drive through this picturesque city that will show off the best Paris has to offer.
Adult Price: € 43
Note: In summer, this trip may take place before sunset.
Available on Day 7
With your Local Specialist, visit the historic Saint-Sulpice Church once used in the filming of Dan Brown’s famous ‘Da Vinci Code’. En route to the iconic Latin Quarter, you’ll stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, admiring a replica of the Statue of Liberty and the garden’s famous beehives before enjoying free time to explore the Latin Quarter and view Notre Dame Cathedral.
Adult Price: € 32
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