Essence of France Paris, Provence & the French Riviera
The wine, cuisine, art, and landscapes of France ignite the senses on a journey to romantic Paris, colorful Provence, and the sparkling French Riviera. Relax during extended stays in Paris, Aix-en-Provence, and Nice. Travel by high-speed train from Paris to Provence and visit a farm for a cheese tasting. Stroll the spectacular gardens of the Villa Rothschild with their stunning views of the Mediterranean. Cruise the River Seine, learn about perfume making and truffle hunting, and explore charming villages and gorgeous coastlines – this is the essence of France.
The wine, cuisine, art, and landscapes of France ignite the senses on a journey to romantic Paris, colorful Provence, and the sparkling French Riviera. Relax during extended stays in Paris, Aix-en-Provence, and Nice. Travel by high-speed train from Paris to Provence and visit a farm for a cheese tasting. Stroll the spectacular gardens of the Villa Rothschild with their stunning views of the Mediterranean. Cruise the River Seine, learn about perfume making and truffle hunting, and explore charming villages and gorgeous coastlines – this is the essence of France.
Highlights
- This French capital is one of the world's greatest cities and certainly one of its most beautiful. The Eiffel Tower, Arch of Triumph, Louvre and Orsay Museums, the Champs Elysees, Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur, and many others are all iconic symbols of the "City of Light", renowned for fabulous dining, high fashion, and the French savoir faire. One can keep returning to Paris over a lifetime and still not see everything it has to offer.
- Separating Paris into the Left and Right Banks is the River Seine. One of the best ways to see Paris is by water. Floating along as the sun sets in a glass-roofed boat, you watch the city come to life. Guided narration and themed music allow you to soak in the atmosphere of Paris as you cruise past Notre Dame, the Musee D'Orsay and the Eiffel Tower.
- The abundant springs that supply the "City of a Thousand Fountains" have given this unofficial capital of the Provence its name. Aix-en-Provence is excellently located between the Mediterranean, the French Riviera, and the Languedoc-Rousillon region. It has been the seat of a University for 600 years and continues to be a center of learning for the study of Law. The city retains a certain distinction due to its cultural life and its handsome 12th and 18th century mansions as well as Roman ruins and its medieval cathedral. Thermal baths, a picturesque fresh produce market and the lively artisanal craft and wares market highlight the city's many attractions.
- During your visit in Cassis, you have the choice between two activities. Your first choice is to enjoy a scenic sailing to 3 coves located in the Calanques National Park. From the boat, you’ll take in the dramatic, steep-walled inlets topped by Mediterranean vegetation. Your second choice is to challenge yourself on a guided, moderately-strenuous hike* through the park’s shrub to view the rugged landscape from above. Calanques Scenic Boat Tour Activity Level: 2 To fully enjoy this option, travelers should be prepared to be on a motorboat for about 45 minutes. The motorboat can accommodate approximately 100 people. This experience is not exclusive to Collette guests. The motorboat will sail from Cassis to visit 3 coves in the Calanques National Park. Moderate movement from the sailing should be expected and travelers should be prepared to stand on the boat while moving, as seating cannot be guaranteed. Hiking in the Calanques National Park Activity Level: 4 This hike is ranked as “moderately strenuous” according to the U.S. National Park Service guidelines. Moderately strenuous hikes will generally be challenging for an unconditioned person. The terrain can involve a steady and often steep incline. The hike in the Calanques will have an approximate duration of 2 hours over rough, unpaved terrain, constantly up/down hills, visiting 1 or 2 calanaques (coves). In case of adverse weather conditions, the hike might be replaced with a walk along a paved, 1.1 mile scenic path.
- Grasse is an aristocratic town in the foothills surrounding the Mediterranean coast. Its 12th century Cathedral dominates the cobblestoned streets and intimate squares and courtyards. The town is recognized as the center of French perfumery. Several noble houses that pioneered the art of perfume-making welcome visitors to their laboratories, museums, and gift shops.
- Grasse is the centre of French perfumery. Visit a laboratory in one of the city's venerable perfume houses and learn the history and art of perfume-making. Try your "nose" at discerning particular scents and blend your own special fragrance.
- Nice is the second largest resort on the French Mediterranean Coast and the country's fifth largest city. It has the country's second busiest airport welcoming the world's rich and famous as well as millions of sun and fun-seeking tourists. Beachfront hotels along the famous Promenade des Anglais, pleasant parks and gardens, a picturesque historic quarter as well as a lively commercial center are some of its many attractions. The Chagall Museum of the Biblical Message and the Henri Matisse Museum are located here. An ancient Roman arena and a remarkable Franciscan Church are found in Cimiez, an exclusive residential district. Nice is the gateway to affluent and exclusive coastal communities as well as the Principality of Monaco.
- One of the most famous villages on the Nice hinterland, this heavily restored 16th-century village became a magnet for both aspiring and established artists during the 20th century. It was home to French actors Yves Montand and Simone Signoret and a favorite haunt for Hollywood celebrities. Today, galleries and studios dominate the village's narrow cobblestone streets and alleyways.
- Take in the impressive splendor of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, home to lush gardens, iconic rose-colored siding, and immaculate views of the Mediterranean. Enjoy lunch in the tea room, overlooking the Bay of Villefrance.
Hotels
- Courtyard Marriott Paris Gare de Lyon Hotel — Paris
- Grand Hotel Roi René — Aix-en-Provence
- Hotel Massena — Nice
Details
- Tour Operator
- Collette
- Start City
- Paris
- End City
- Nice
- Duration (Days)
- 12
- Activity Level
- Level 3
What's Included
- 17 meals included
- This French capital is one of the world's greatest cities and certainly one of its most beautiful. The Eiffel Tower, Arch of Triumph, Louvre and Orsay Museums, the Champs Elysees, Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur, and many others are all iconic symbols of the "City of Light", renowned for fabulous dining, high fashion, and the French savoir faire. One can keep returning to Paris over a lifetime and still not see everything it has to offer.
- Separating Paris into the Left and Right Banks is the River Seine. One of the best ways to see Paris is by water. Floating along as the sun sets in a glass-roofed boat, you watch the city come to life. Guided narration and themed music allow you to soak in the atmosphere of Paris as you cruise past Notre Dame, the Musee D'Orsay and the Eiffel Tower.
- The abundant springs that supply the "City of a Thousand Fountains" have given this unofficial capital of the Provence its name. Aix-en-Provence is excellently located between the Mediterranean, the French Riviera, and the Languedoc-Rousillon region. It has been the seat of a University for 600 years and continues to be a center of learning for the study of Law. The city retains a certain distinction due to its cultural life and its handsome 12th and 18th century mansions as well as Roman ruins and its medieval cathedral. Thermal baths, a picturesque fresh produce market and the lively artisanal craft and wares market highlight the city's many attractions.
- During your visit in Cassis, you have the choice between two activities. Your first choice is to enjoy a scenic sailing to 3 coves located in the Calanques National Park. From the boat, you’ll take in the dramatic, steep-walled inlets topped by Mediterranean vegetation. Your second choice is to challenge yourself on a guided, moderately-strenuous hike* through the park’s shrub to view the rugged landscape from above. Calanques Scenic Boat Tour Activity Level: 2 To fully enjoy this option, travelers should be prepared to be on a motorboat for about 45 minutes. The motorboat can accommodate approximately 100 people. This experience is not exclusive to Collette guests. The motorboat will sail from Cassis to visit 3 coves in the Calanques National Park. Moderate movement from the sailing should be expected and travelers should be prepared to stand on the boat while moving, as seating cannot be guaranteed. Hiking in the Calanques National Park Activity Level: 4 This hike is ranked as “moderately strenuous” according to the U.S. National Park Service guidelines. Moderately strenuous hikes will generally be challenging for an unconditioned person. The terrain can involve a steady and often steep incline. The hike in the Calanques will have an approximate duration of 2 hours over rough, unpaved terrain, constantly up/down hills, visiting 1 or 2 calanaques (coves). In case of adverse weather conditions, the hike might be replaced with a walk along a paved, 1.1 mile scenic path.
- Grasse is an aristocratic town in the foothills surrounding the Mediterranean coast. Its 12th century Cathedral dominates the cobblestoned streets and intimate squares and courtyards. The town is recognized as the center of French perfumery. Several noble houses that pioneered the art of perfume-making welcome visitors to their laboratories, museums, and gift shops.
- Grasse is the centre of French perfumery. Visit a laboratory in one of the city's venerable perfume houses and learn the history and art of perfume-making. Try your "nose" at discerning particular scents and blend your own special fragrance.
- Nice is the second largest resort on the French Mediterranean Coast and the country's fifth largest city. It has the country's second busiest airport welcoming the world's rich and famous as well as millions of sun and fun-seeking tourists. Beachfront hotels along the famous Promenade des Anglais, pleasant parks and gardens, a picturesque historic quarter as well as a lively commercial center are some of its many attractions. The Chagall Museum of the Biblical Message and the Henri Matisse Museum are located here. An ancient Roman arena and a remarkable Franciscan Church are found in Cimiez, an exclusive residential district. Nice is the gateway to affluent and exclusive coastal communities as well as the Principality of Monaco.
- One of the most famous villages on the Nice hinterland, this heavily restored 16th-century village became a magnet for both aspiring and established artists during the 20th century. It was home to French actors Yves Montand and Simone Signoret and a favorite haunt for Hollywood celebrities. Today, galleries and studios dominate the village's narrow cobblestone streets and alleyways.
- Take in the impressive splendor of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, home to lush gardens, iconic rose-colored siding, and immaculate views of the Mediterranean. Enjoy lunch in the tea room, overlooking the Bay of Villefrance.
Itinerary
-
Day 1: Overnight Flight
Allons-y! Ignite the senses on a journey to romantic Paris, colorful Provence, and the sparkling French Riviera. Mouthwatering cuisine, stunning views, art, and history create a trip that shows you the true essence of France.
-
Day 2: Paris, France
Arrive in Paris, the brilliant capital of France. A three-night stay in the “City of Light” showcases its vibrant atmosphere, cuisine, and history. Meet your fellow explorers this evening over dinner as you toast “santé” to the beginning of a grand adventure.
-
Day 3: Paris - Île de la Cité - Seine River Cruise
Do as the locals do when you step aboard Le Métro – your main mode of transportation while in Paris. As you learn to navigate the city with your Tour Manager, embrace the freedom to set off later as you wish. The first stop is the hip and historic district of Le Marais. Join a local foodie and venture to the neighborhood’s beloved venues, getting a taste of the cozy shops and Parisian flavors before pausing at a local bistro for a glass of wine and the plat du jour. In the early afternoon, walk down to Île de la Cité and take in the progress of restoration efforts of Notre Dame Cathedral. Later, glide along the banks of the Seine (UNESCO) on a river cruise, admiring the Eiffel Tower and the city’s famous bridges. Spend the evening as you please.
-
Day 4: Paris
The day is totally yours, so experience Paris at your own pace today. Perhaps you’ll venture to bohemian Montmartre, pausing to observe modern artists at work in Place du Tertre. Or maybe you’ll stroll along the grand Champs-Élysées or venture to the Louvre Museum.* You may want to experience Paris’ nightlife during an optional dinner at the dynamic Paradis Latin** cabaret show, featuring champagne, can-can dancers, and endless excitement.
-
Day 5: Paris - High-Speed Train to Marseilles - Aix-en-Provence
Au revoir, Paris! Grab your bags and let a TGV*** – France’s high-speed train – whisk you away to colorful Provence. Arrive in Marseille in the early afternoon. Get a quick look at France’s oldest city before transferring to Aix, your home for the next four nights. This evening, savor the flavors of Provence during a tasting dinner in a local restaurant.
-
Day 6: Aix-en-Provence - Provençal Countryside - Aix-en-Provence
Embark on a memorable epicurean adventure with a captivating truffle demonstration! Join a local chef and their trained, truffle-sniffing dogs in the charming setting of the farmer’s garden, offering an intimate and exclusive look at the art of truffle hunting. Beforehand, visit a goat farm nestled among rich landscapes that inspired van Gogh, Picasso, and Renoir to learn the secrets of regional cheese production and sample the results. Then savor a lunch featuring freshly prepared Provençal specialties whipped up by your chef. Back in Aix, the balance of the afternoon is yours. Perhaps you’ll take a stroll along Le Cours Mirabeau. This tree-lined, pedestrianized avenue is dotted by fountains and cafés cherished by locals and visitors alike.
-
Day 7: Aix-en-Provence - Cassis - Aix-en-Provence
Journey to the fishing village of Cassis. Sheltered by the Calanques National Park on one side and the mighty Cap Canaille on the other, Cassis charms with its multicolored houses and array of small fishing boats, yachts and sailboats quietly bobbing in its harbor. Then, explore the National Park’s coves and inlets by land or sea because it’s your choice! Relax on a scenic cruise for views of the towering cliffs -OR- challenge yourself on a hike**** through the Mediterranean shrub to view the rugged landscape from above. No matter your choice, once back in Cassis make the most of your free time, perhaps tasting a traditional bouillabaisse fish stew before returning to Aix in the mid-afternoon.
-
Day 8: Aix-en-Provence
The day is yours to explore Aix-en-Provence at leisure. Perhaps you’ll visit the atelier (artist's studio) of Aix’s most renowned citizen, Paul Cézanne, frozen in time since the painter’s death in 1906. Or you may choose a full-day optional tour exploring the historic village of Saint-Rémy, with its bustling weekly market and the cobbled streets of Les Baux-de-Provence, a picture-perfect hilltop village. Before returning to Aix, experience an impressive multimedia presentation at the Carrières de Lumières. Making use of a former quarry, iconic works of art are projected onto the surrounding rock, accompanied by stirring music.
-
Day 9: Aix-en-Provence - Grasse - Nice
This morning, traverse southern France en route to the French Riviera. Pause in Grasse to learn the secrets of perfume making during a hands-on workshop led by an expert perfumer, affectionately referred to as nez (nose). Arrive in Nice in the late afternoon and settle in for a three-night stay in the leading resort town of the Côte d'Azur. This evening taste Mediterranean-inspired French cuisine during dinner at a local restaurant.
-
Day 10: Nice - Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat - Villa Rothschild
Head to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, the crown jewel of the French Riviera, and visit the impressive Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild. Uncover the lush gardens replete with lovely views of the Mediterranean Sea. Your visit to the villa is complete with a celebratory lunch served in the villa’s charming tearoom.
-
Day 11: Nice - Saint Paul de Vence - Nice
This morning, discover Nice’s famed flower market and be enchanted by the brightly colored blooms before journeying to historic Saint Paul de Vence, situated atop a hill overlooking the beautiful countryside. Explore this charming walled medieval village, soaking in its distinctive light, said to have inspired artists such as Matisse and poet Jacques Prévert. Back in Nice this afternoon, bask in the sunshine at a local café or perhaps take in an artist’s perspective at the Chagall National Museum. Gaze over the Bay of Villefranche as you compare notes and experiences with fellow travelers as you say au revoir to the magic of France.
-
Day 12: Nice - Tour Ends
Your tour comes to a close today, leaving you with many fond memories of the essence of France.