Ivy sweeps across elegant countryside estates. Vineyards overtake the hillsides and rush up into foothills. Memories of kings coroneted in enchanting towns continue to emanate from the strong walls of a graceful cathedral. Your luxury vacation tour of France to Paris, Giverny, Champagne, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley lets you experience French culture in an intimate way, taking you from Parisian chic to medieval village enchantment, tasting champagne to strolling along the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci. The luxuries of France are endless, turning every second into a lavish moment that you will never forget.

TRIP HIGHLIGHTS

  • Revel in a tour of Paris that takes you beyond the normal highlights of the city and into the essence of the architecture, museums, and culture
  • Cruise down the Seine River on an evening excursion for a taste of undeniable romance in the City of Lights
  • Visit the exquisite gardens of Giverny that inspired Monet
  • Explore the small village where Van Gogh spent his final days
  • Discover an exceptional chateau overlooking the riverbanks and housing the small chapel of Leonardo da Vinci’s final resting place
  • Enjoy a presentation explaining how the specific champagne grapes are grown before taking part in an exquisite champagne tour and tasting
  • Traverse the Burgundy region to witness exceptional medieval villages and breathtaking cathedrals

TRIP AT A GLANCE

(Day 1): Paris – Arrive in the World Famous City of Paris

(Day 2): Paris – Full Day Private Guided Tour of Paris and Seine River Cruise

(Day 3): Paris – Enjoy the City of Lights at your Leisure

(Day 4): Paris – Full Day Classic Artist Exploration of Giverny and Auvers sur Oise

(Day 5): Paris – Full Day in the Champagne Region with Wine and Medieval Villages

(Day 6): Burgundy – Visit Wineries, Cistercian Abbeys and Charming Villages

(Day 7): Paris – Explore the Renaissance Charm of the Loire Valley

(Day 8): Paris – Depart for Home

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

France is a panorama of opulence, beauty, style, and taste. Castles look almost imaginary standing atop an outcropping or overlooking the river-bend. Vineyards produce luscious wines absorbing the nutrients in the soil and enhancing their flavor. The stunning architecture of favored artists continues to entice visitors from around the world. On your 8-day luxury vacation tour of France to Paris, Giverny, Champagne, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley, you will discover the majesty of France. The lavish comforts of your stay begin with your arrival in Paris.

Your private transfer meets you at the airport, taking you into the heart of the city. After you check in, the remainder of the day is yours to settle into the City of Lights. The following day, your private guide meets you at the hotel eager to lead you on a full day tour of Paris, from Notre Dame de Paris to the Eiffel Tower. In the evening you will cruise down the Seine to see the elegance of the city from the water.

Spend a day at your leisure, embracing Paris as you wish, whether strolling through the countless museums or taking in the boutique shops. Your guide greets you at the hotel once again and takes you out to Giverny, the town where Monet painted his gardens and left his studio. Following Giverny, you travel to Auvers sur Oise, home to the final days of Van Gogh, where he spent time in a hotel producing some of his most famous works.

Your guide will lead you on a full day tour out to the Champagne region visiting the city of Reims and then enjoying an explanatory and sampling tour of the wineries. Journey southbound to Burgundy to find charming medieval villages and lush vineyards, including a tasting at Michel Laroche cellar before visiting the town of Vezelay.

Another day takes you into the breathtaking charm of the Loire Valley, a storybook landscape of hills and castles. On your final morning in Paris, your private transfer meets you at the hotel and escorts you to the Charles de Gaulle International Airport for your comfortable flight home.

For more itinerary options, see the tours in France section on Zicasso.

ACTIVITIES

  • Architecture Tours / Arts & Crafts Tours / Historical Sites / History & Archaeology Tours / Landmarks / Monument / Memorial / Museums & Galleries / Performances: Concerts – Theaters – Shows – Dances & Musicals / Food & Wine / Cooking Classes / Gourmet Dining / Music / Palace / Castle / Mansion / Parks / Scenic Drive / Shopping / Small Towns / Villages / Walking Tours / Wine Tasting & Wine Tours / Gardens / Nature / Outdoor Adventures

THEMES

  • Food & Wine / Relaxation / Outdoor Adventures

FEATURES

  • Leisure / Spectacular Scenery / Unique Accommodations