Explore France's Historic Charms and Wonders - 11 Days

Our adventure begins with an early departure from Paris as we make our way towards Normandy. Our first stop is Giverny, where we'll visit Monet’s House and its stunning gardens—admission is included. Here, we'll delve into the world of Impressionist art, a movement notably linked to this region. From Giverny, we continue to Rouen, Normandy's historic capital, where you'll have time to explore its medieval streets and magnificent cathedral and savour some lunch. Afterwards, we journey to Arromanches, a place steeped in history with its beaches that recall the significant World War II landings in France. Our day concludes in Caen, where you can enjoy some leisure time in the vibrant central district. Please note that from November to April, Monet's House is closed, so our stop in Giverny won’t take place. Also, be aware that throughout this tour, the group composition might change, with travellers joining or departing at different points, but rest assured the maximum group size will never be exceeded. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.

On the second day of our journey, we will set off from Caen in the early morning, heading to the remarkable Mont-Saint-Michel. Nicknamed "The Marvel," this iconic site is enveloped by the sea and features a magnificent abbey. Here, you will have some time to wander at your leisure and take in the breathtaking surroundings.

Continuing our adventure, we'll make our way into Brittany, stopping at the historic city of Saint-Malo. Known for its formidable city walls, you'll have the chance to explore and perhaps enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, our travels will bring us to the delightful village of Dinan, famous for its picturesque Breton charm. Indulge in a taste of local tradition with a crepe and a drink in this enchanting setting.

Our day concludes in Rennes, the capital of Brittany. With its monumental historic centre, Rennes offers a glimpse into the region's vibrant past and dynamic present. Enjoy some time to immerse yourself in its captivating atmosphere before we wrap up the day's journey.

We depart from Rennes, making our way to Angers. Optional visits to the castle, home to the impressive medieval Apocalypse Tapestry, are available for those interested. Our journey continues towards the Loire Valley, with our arrival in Tours, a charming city beside the Loire River. You'll have some time here to explore and enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, we visit the Ch?teau de Villandry, celebrated for its stunning gardens?admission to the gardens is included. We then proceed to Amboise, known for its captivating medieval quarter, where we will spend the night. Dinner is included for our group.

On our fourth day, we delve into the captivating history and architecture of the Loire Valley. Our morning begins with a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Amboise. Here, you can visit the Ch?te?u du Clos Luc?, where Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years, offering a glimpse into the life of this extraordinary artist. We then set off to visit the iconic Ch?teau de Chenonceau, uniquely built like a bridge arching gracefully over the river, with admission included for a closer look at its remarkable design and history.

Our exploration continues to the grand Ch?teau de Chambord, the largest castle in the Loire Valley. A visit to its expansive park is included, allowing us to appreciate the grandeur and scale of this stunning site. Our day progresses as we journey into central France, arriving in Limoges?famed for its exquisite porcelain. Here, you might wish to explore the historic centre, where the striking Saint Etienne Cathedral is a notable highlight.

We leave Limoges for the enchanting region of the Dordogne, known for its rich history and breathtaking scenery. Our first stop is at Lascaux, where we will visit the museum and the meticulous replica of the original caves. The included admission offers a glimpse into prehistoric times with the site's renowned cave paintings. Continuing to Sarlat, a town recognised by UNESCO for its remarkably well-preserved Renaissance centre, you will have time to explore these historic streets and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Next, we travel to Beynac to explore its medieval castle, dramatically overlooking the river – access is included. We end the day in the medieval village of Rocamadour, famed for its sanctuary perched on a cliff. We highly recommend a walk along the Via Crucis, with a lift available for your return. Dinner will be provided.

We begin our day with a visit to the extraordinary Padirac Chasm, where we'll experience a captivating boat ride along an underground river 75 metres below the surface. Later, we proceed to Collonges-la-Rouge, renowned for its striking red stone architecture along the Way of St. James. After enjoying lunch, we'll make our way to Saint-Emilion, a charming town nestled in the Bordeaux wine region, allowing you some leisurely time to explore its scenic streets. Our day concludes with an arrival in Bordeaux in the evening. Please note that the Padirac Chasm might be closed from November to March due to weather conditions.

Start your day by exploring the heart of Bordeaux, awarded World Heritage Site status. The city centre offers charming pedestrian-only streets and an impressive 11th-century cathedral. Don't miss the mesmerising "Water Mirror." With your free time, you may choose to stroll along the banks of the Garonne River, where quaint restaurants invite you for lunch. Alternatively, consider visiting the Citée du Vin, a captivating interactive museum dedicated to the history and production of wine. In the afternoon, we will travel through the picturesque landscapes of the Pyrenees to reach Lourdes. Upon arrival mid-afternoon, immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere of the sanctuary; we highly recommend attending the moving candlelit procession. Dinner will be included to round off your day.

Today, we journey through the enchanting southern regions of France, beginning with a visit to the storied city of Carcassonne. Known for its stunning fortifications, Carcassonne offers a rich tapestry of medieval history and architecture to explore at your leisure. After taking in the sights and enjoying your midday meal, we travel onward to Narbonne. Here, you will have some free time to wander through its historic centre, a delight for those interested in its Occitan roots and picturesque charm. As the afternoon draws to a close, we continue to Marseille, the vibrant heart of Provence and the second-largest city in France. For the evening, we recommend a stroll through the bustling Vieux-Port, where you can savour the lively atmosphere and consider dining at one of the delightful little restaurants lining the harbour.

Today, we delve into the captivating region of Provence. We begin our day in Aix-en-Provence, the birthplace of the renowned painter Paul Cézanne. You will have the opportunity to meander through its charming historic centre, with its quaint narrow streets, delightful fountains, and inviting squares. Our next destination is Avignon, where you can take a leisurely walk through this beautifully preserved walled city perched on the banks of the Rhône River. Known as the "second Rome" during its time as the papal seat, Avignon's impressive Palace of the Popes stands as a testament to its significant past. Enjoy lunch here before we proceed to the Pont du Gard, an awe-inspiring Roman aqueduct. Admission to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is included, allowing you to marvel at one of the best-preserved Roman monuments. Our travels will then lead us towards Catalonia, where we will arrive in the lively city of Barcelona by evening.

On the morning of our tenth day, we'll set off on a panoramic tour of Barcelona, one of Europe’s most captivating cities. Known for its location along the Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona is a treasure trove of modernist architecture, thanks to the visionary works of Gaudí. The city is also famous for its dynamic history, having hosted both the Universal Exposition and the Olympics. In the afternoon, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace, whether that's delving further into Barcelona's cultural riches or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere. As evening falls, we'll transport you to Maremagnum, a lively hub of entertainment and dining by the sea, near Plaza de Colón, where you're free to enjoy a leisurely stroll and choose from an array of dining options.

After breakfast in Barcelona, our tour concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of an unforgettable journey.