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Jewels of France including Normandy

Operated by: CostSaver

8 Days from $1,130 per person
APR - OCT 2023
Tours of Alexander Bridge and statue in Paris, France

Countries Visited

France ...more France

Locations Visited

Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Deauville, Omaha Beach, Mont-Saint-Michel, Rennes, Saumur, Tours, Amboise, Loire Valley ...more Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Deauville, Omaha Beach, Mont-Saint-Michel, Rennes, Saumur, Tours, Amboise, Loire Valley
  1. Day 1 Arrive Paris (1 Night)

    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.

    hotel Ibis Alésia Montparnasse 14éme
  2. Day 2 Paris – Rouen – Honfleur – Deauville (1 Night)

    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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Ibis Styles Centre
  3. Day 3 Deauville – D-Day Landing Beaches – Mont-Saint-Michel – Rennes (1 Night)

    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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Mercure Centre Gare
  4. Day 4 Rennes – Saumur – Tours (2 Nights)

    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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Ibis Styles Sud
  5. Day 5 Loire Valley sightseeing

    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.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Ibis Styles Sud
  6. Day 6 Tours – Chambord – Paris (2 Nights)

    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.

    meals Breakfast
    hotel Ibis Alésia Montparnasse 14éme
  7. Day 7 Paris sightseeing and free time

    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.

    meals Breakfast, Dinner
    hotel Ibis Alésia Montparnasse 14éme
  8. Day 8 Depart Paris

    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.

    meals Breakfast
Jewels France including Normandy Guided Tour Map
Price Includes

Whats Included

  • An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • Many meals and daily breakfasts included
  • 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 Optional Experiences

Dining Summary

  • 7 Breakfast (B)
  • 2 Dinner (D)

Essentials

  • : View the cathedral
  • : Visit this picturesque port
  • : Visit the D-Day Landing beaches of Omaha
  • : Visit the island town and view the abbey
  • : Visit the magnificent Château de Chenonceau with your Local Specialist and view the Châteaux at Amboise and Chambord
  • : View the Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower on your sightseeing tour

Whats Included

  • : An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
  • : Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
  • : Many meals and daily breakfasts included
  • : 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 Optional Experiences

Dates & Prices

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.

Online Booking Process

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July 2023
AARP Members Save up to $50
Jul 15 Sat
Jul 22 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
Guaranteed Departure This departure is guaranteed
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,255 $1,130 Save $126
GETAWAY DEALS
August 2023
AARP Members Save up to $50
Aug 12 Sat
Aug 19 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,255 $1,130 Save $126
GETAWAY DEALS
AARP Members Save up to $50
Aug 26 Sat
Sep 2 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,255 $1,130 Save $126
GETAWAY DEALS
September 2023
AARP Members Save up to $50
Sep 9 Sat
Sep 16 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,286 $1,157 Save $129
FALL TRAVEL SALE
AARP Members Save up to $50
Sep 30 Sat
Oct 7 Sat
AARP Members Save up to $50
DOUBLE OCCUPANCY PRICE/PERSON
$1,286 $1,157 Save $129
FALL TRAVEL SALE
Optional Add-Ons

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.

Paris

Available on Day 1

Montmartre Village and Artists' Square

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

Loire Valley

Available on Day 4

Dinner In The Loire Valley

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

Tours

Available on Day 4

The Renaissance Castle and Gardens of Villandry

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

Amboise

Available on Day 5

In The Footsteps Of Leonardo Da Vinci

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

Moulin Rouge Cabaret and Dinner

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

Seine Cruise and Paris Illuminations

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

Latin Quarter and Luxembourg Gardens

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

Reviews
Service
Vacation
Independent Reviews
Olga Bonfiglio
Sunday, July 31, 2022
Service
responsive
Response from Grand European Travel:
We are so excited you enjoyed your Jewels of France tour. We hope you returned with memories to last a lifetime. Thank you so much for writing a review. We appreciate your feedback. Take care!
Tuesday, August 9, 2022
Vacation
Excellent guide. Good pacing of the tour. Great companions -- only 13.
Trusted Customer
Saturday, August 3, 2019
Service
Inquirers should be given all pertinent info. Regarding trip, ex. Hotel will be outside of Paris, not in Paris...you will have to make arrangements yourself to travel to city .
Response from Grand European Travel:
We appreciate your feedback. The Jewels of France is a Cost Saver trip which has less inclusions and more time to do independent sightseeing. The hotels in this product are all outside of the city center. We do apologize if this was not made clear at the time you booked with us.
Wednesday, August 7, 2019
Vacation
Normandy only place worth going to and even then, we were not taken to museums and all beaches...not fond of seeing chateaus...see one see them all
Robert Howarth
Friday, March 29, 2019
Service
I actually thought the Bus driver, and comfort of our rides, as well as feeling safe at all time was GREAT! However , I am giving the 'poor " rating to draw attention to the fact that you advertise bathrooms in the bus , and yet we are not allowed to use them??!! This was our 2nd trip with GET, and both times , we were asked not to use toilets unless dire needs! Both trips , there were a number of elderly on board, as well as people with health issues. Upon destinations all rest rooms are 1/2hr at least wait lines- you loose your tour groups , and stress was not on our vacation's to do list ! Expecting someone to hold their bladder for hours , while on mediations which require frequent toileting is just not right. Especially when we get off buses, we have wait to find a toilet, worry we are loosing our group , and have no idea where we are is not part of " a Pleasant trip!" This was our first Cost saver trip, and only 2 hotels were pleasant. The worst was a stay in a hotel where there were no screens on the windows, no A/C! Thus in order to sleep at night , we had to leave windows open for air. Needless to say , not a good night's sleep , while also being afraid something may fly in the room!! Upon leaving , as I was checking out , I realized that there was absolutely no fire safety equipment in the room , ( sprinklers , etc !!) So if this a " COSTSAVER trip , it certainly can not be advertised as a LIFE SAVING trip.!! With above said, the BEST part of our trip was our awesome tour guide, and bus driver , who made our trip , the sights , the education , and feeling secure with them GREAT !!!! It certainly is not their fault , that with this Cost Saver trip , the meals were not very good at all, very sparse servings, at most locations. We made this trip specifically for my husband to see Normandy ,and the D Day beaches . The time frame allowed for this very important visit to so many of us in that group , was a great disappointment . When you go to somewhere with such a significant history, and an awesome museum ,who is sharing a wealth of information , slides ,narrations,etc , as well as a great span of beaches to walk ,a 45 minute time allowance is just wrong!!! Out of all 5 beaches , we were only able to be on Omaha beach ( not seeing the cliffs that were scaled by our heros, as the distance was to far with our time allowed. As I said this was our second GET trip , as with the first trip our tour guides were the BEST. We are planning another trip for this October, and we are afraid to use GET, thus we have also been searching other tour groups , and being sure to get the specific questions re above concerns discussed , prior to booking !! Respectfully, Bob and Deb Howarth
Vacation
see ALL previous info . Thank You
Renee
Thursday, October 18, 2018
Service
The tour was awesome and both the Tour guide Marie and bus driver were awesome! They were a lot of fun and it was clear they really enjoy the people. Marie was very knowledgeable and gave us a lot of history. If we ever do a tour again we would use GW Tours again!
Response from Grand European Travel:
Sounds like you had an incredible experience on your Jewels of France tour. That makes us happy! We would love to help you plan and book your next guided vacation. Thank you so much for your feedback. All the best!
Wednesday, October 24, 2018
Vacation
The trip was awesome! We had such an amazing time during this tour guide Marie and our bus driver Gilbert were excellent! Marie was amazing with the history of every place we went! It was very evident that she loves her job as well as the people she was with. We would love to go on another tour where she was the tour guide.
Kandasamychetty Perumal
Wednesday, October 10, 2018
Service
Our tour director Marie Dubois was superb- very knowledgeable, pleasant and helpful and made our whole experience wonderful!
Vacation
The optional tours brought the overall price significantly
Thomas Mullenix
Saturday, September 29, 2018
Service
Service was excellent however the Ibis hotel in Tours was substandard for US folks. No AC only air cooling which was not effective in a top floor room on a worm day. All rooms should have room controlled AC
Vacation
Ibis hotel in Tours had no AC which is substandard by US folks. Otherwise a great tour with interesting cities and sights. Need more time in Normandy and at US cemetery
Ghada Wright
Saturday, July 7, 2018
Service
GET had the perfect European vacation in mind. The details and the experiences, are all so memorable for a lifetime. I got to practice my French there and I did quite well . I enjoyed Carol, Brian, and Francois, for their expertise and the way they gave us a great time. Everything went smoothly and very professional. My husband Fred said he missed the Bayeux Tapestry visit. But I know we covered too many 'wonderful' places to visit.
Response from Grand European Travel:
It doesn't get any better than that! Thank you for your kind words and for taking the time to share them with us.
Monday, July 9, 2018
Vacation
I thought the travel choices I made were superb regarding the itinerary. I would tell everybody about GET!
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