France Magnifique
From the royal Palace of Versailles to the enchanting streets of Paris, grab a baguette and rendezvous with the best of France. Explore the former royal court and gardens in Versailles. Stroll past the magnificent, colorful flora in Monet’s Garden in Giverny. Immerse yourself in the history of Normandy’s D-Day Landing Beaches and visit the Normandy American Cemetery. Delight in a 2-night stay in a stunning, renovated château in the UNESCO World Heritage Loire Valley. Enjoy a visit to the famous Chenonceau Castle. Sip wine during a tour of a winery and its impressive underground caves. Glide along the Seine as you take in the highlights of Paris. Savor the views and rich cuisine during dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Bask in the robust history, culture, and romance of these celebrated cities and charming towns.
From the royal Palace of Versailles to the enchanting streets of Paris, grab a baguette and rendezvous with the best of France. Explore the former royal court and gardens in Versailles. Stroll past the magnificent, colorful flora in Monet’s Garden in Giverny. Immerse yourself in the history of Normandy’s D-Day Landing Beaches and visit the Normandy American Cemetery. Delight in a 2-night stay in a stunning, renovated château in the UNESCO World Heritage Loire Valley. Enjoy a visit to the famous Chenonceau Castle. Sip wine during a tour of a winery and its impressive underground caves. Glide along the Seine as you take in the highlights of Paris. Savor the views and rich cuisine during dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Bask in the robust history, culture, and romance of these celebrated cities and charming towns.
Highlights
- Feel like royalty during a tour of Versailles' sprawling green gardens and palace halls with a local guide. This legendary palace is truly a work of art – from the prominent Hall of Mirrors to the opulent bedchamber of the queen, take in the palace’s most famous sights.
- Claude Monet, the painter who founded the Impressionist school, lived in Giverny, a little spot in Normandy, for 43 years. His house and his garden, the village of Giverny itself, and its surroundings were his subject matter. Half a million visitors from all over the world, as well as painters, come every year, charmed by the unique light of the Seine Valley. The bright, modern Museum of the Impressionists that houses temporary exhibits of Impressionist art is found in Giverney as well.
- France's northern region, on the shores of the English Channel, has been the venue for important conflicts that have marked French, European, and world history. Events ranging from William the Conqueror's campaign to capture the English throne, the battles of the Hundred Years War, World War I, and D-Day, just to name a few, have all taken place in Normandy. Normandy is also known for its culinary delights. Savor its renowned cheeses and Calvados, as well as its rich butter and cream used to make apple pies and custards.
- One of the beach sectors assigned to the American landing forces during the invasion of June 6, 1944. It was here that the U.S. First Division fought the bloodiest engagement on D-Day. Go through the towns that make up the sector: St-Laurent, Colleville and Vierville. Set foot on the beach and reflect on that fateful day and cherish the present peace. The American Military Cemetery stands up on the bluff as a testament to the greatest sacrifice that these Americans have made in the name of freedom.
- Le Mont St. Michel is an island commune in Normandy, France. The island has held strategic defenses since ancient times. Since the 8th century AD, the island has been the seat of the monastery from which it draws its name. Today it is one of France’s most recognizable landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. More than 3 million people visit each year.
- Located in the middle stretch of the Loire River of central France, the Loire Valley is most notable for its historic towns, architecture and wine. The valley has been inhabited since the Middle Paleolithic period. In 2000, UNESCO added the central part of the valley to its list of World Heritage Sites.
- Visit a local winery to discover some of Europe’s best Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc wines.
- Feel like royalty when you arrive at your 15th century castle accommodations at the Château de Beauvois, and settle in for two nights.
- A bridge town on the south bank of the Loire River. The most charming and evocative of the big loire cities. Its narrow streets and old houses give it an atmosphere of a small picturesque town. The historic chateau dominates the settlement. The tiny chapel that straddles the chateau's walls is the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.
- 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.
- In Paris, you have the choice between 2 activities. Your first choice is to gain an overview of the French capital during a panoramic bus tour. With your local guide, take in the most iconic sights of Paris such as the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Place de la Concorde. Or, join a local expert on a walking tour. Travel like a Parisian as you hop on Le Métro bound for the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre and its iconic Sacré-Cœur basilica. Explore the winding streets, home to classical painters and cultural provocateurs and learn the history of this artistic village in the heart of Paris. Paris Panoramic City Tour Activity Level: 1 This is a panoramic tour of Paris, covering the main sights. Montmartre by Metro Walking Tour Activity Level: 3 Travelers will visit Monmartre by metro, so they should be able to walk up and down stairs. Also note that Montmartre is a hilly district.
- 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.
- Built in 1889 as part of the World's Fair by the architecture team of Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris today. Located on the first level is 58 Tour Eiffel, a gourmet restaurant with stunning panoramic views of Paris. Since food is another big part of Parisian culture, the meal is several courses, beautifully displayed and accompanied with wine, coffee and tea.
Hotels
- Le Louis Versailles Chateau - MGallery — Versailles
- Best Western Plus Le Moderne — Caen
- Hotel Oceania — Saint-Malo
- Château de Beauvois — Loire Valley
- Hyatt Regency Étoile — Paris
Details
- Tour Operator
- Collette
- Start City
- Versailles
- End City
- Paris
- Duration (Days)
- 12
- Activity Level
- Level 3
What's Included
- 16 meals included
- Feel like royalty during a tour of Versailles' sprawling green gardens and palace halls with a local guide. This legendary palace is truly a work of art – from the prominent Hall of Mirrors to the opulent bedchamber of the queen, take in the palace’s most famous sights.
- Claude Monet, the painter who founded the Impressionist school, lived in Giverny, a little spot in Normandy, for 43 years. His house and his garden, the village of Giverny itself, and its surroundings were his subject matter. Half a million visitors from all over the world, as well as painters, come every year, charmed by the unique light of the Seine Valley. The bright, modern Museum of the Impressionists that houses temporary exhibits of Impressionist art is found in Giverney as well.
- France's northern region, on the shores of the English Channel, has been the venue for important conflicts that have marked French, European, and world history. Events ranging from William the Conqueror's campaign to capture the English throne, the battles of the Hundred Years War, World War I, and D-Day, just to name a few, have all taken place in Normandy. Normandy is also known for its culinary delights. Savor its renowned cheeses and Calvados, as well as its rich butter and cream used to make apple pies and custards.
- One of the beach sectors assigned to the American landing forces during the invasion of June 6, 1944. It was here that the U.S. First Division fought the bloodiest engagement on D-Day. Go through the towns that make up the sector: St-Laurent, Colleville and Vierville. Set foot on the beach and reflect on that fateful day and cherish the present peace. The American Military Cemetery stands up on the bluff as a testament to the greatest sacrifice that these Americans have made in the name of freedom.
- Le Mont St. Michel is an island commune in Normandy, France. The island has held strategic defenses since ancient times. Since the 8th century AD, the island has been the seat of the monastery from which it draws its name. Today it is one of France’s most recognizable landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage site. More than 3 million people visit each year.
- Located in the middle stretch of the Loire River of central France, the Loire Valley is most notable for its historic towns, architecture and wine. The valley has been inhabited since the Middle Paleolithic period. In 2000, UNESCO added the central part of the valley to its list of World Heritage Sites.
- Visit a local winery to discover some of Europe’s best Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc wines.
- Feel like royalty when you arrive at your 15th century castle accommodations at the Château de Beauvois, and settle in for two nights.
- A bridge town on the south bank of the Loire River. The most charming and evocative of the big loire cities. Its narrow streets and old houses give it an atmosphere of a small picturesque town. The historic chateau dominates the settlement. The tiny chapel that straddles the chateau's walls is the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci.
- 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.
- In Paris, you have the choice between 2 activities. Your first choice is to gain an overview of the French capital during a panoramic bus tour. With your local guide, take in the most iconic sights of Paris such as the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Place de la Concorde. Or, join a local expert on a walking tour. Travel like a Parisian as you hop on Le Métro bound for the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre and its iconic Sacré-Cœur basilica. Explore the winding streets, home to classical painters and cultural provocateurs and learn the history of this artistic village in the heart of Paris. Paris Panoramic City Tour Activity Level: 1 This is a panoramic tour of Paris, covering the main sights. Montmartre by Metro Walking Tour Activity Level: 3 Travelers will visit Monmartre by metro, so they should be able to walk up and down stairs. Also note that Montmartre is a hilly district.
- 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.
- Built in 1889 as part of the World's Fair by the architecture team of Gustave Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower is the symbol of Paris today. Located on the first level is 58 Tour Eiffel, a gourmet restaurant with stunning panoramic views of Paris. Since food is another big part of Parisian culture, the meal is several courses, beautifully displayed and accompanied with wine, coffee and tea.
Pricing
| Option | Price | Departure | Return |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double | USD 5,199.00 | 2026-05-14 | |
| Single | USD 6,599.00 | 2026-05-14 | |
| Double | USD 5,199.00 | 2026-05-21 | |
| Single | USD 6,599.00 | 2026-05-21 |
Itinerary
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Day 1: Overnight Flight
Embark on your tour through France. Bask in the rich history, art, culture, and romance of its celebrated cities and charming towns.
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Day 2: Versailles, France
Bienvenue en France, and to charming Versailles. Celebrate the beginning of your voyage with a savory French dinner in the culturally rich town of Versailles.
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Day 3: Versailles - Royal Palace and Gardens
Start your day with an exploration of the iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO). A guide will lead you through the Private Apartments of King Louis XIV, the Sun King, who transformed his father’s hunting lodge into the resplendent seat of the Royal Court. Continue your visit independently through the lavish State Apartments. From the prominent Hall of Mirrors to the opulent bedchamber of the queen, take in Versailles’ most famous sights at your own pace. This afternoon your exploration continues in the palace’s grandiose formal gardens, where the Baroque fountains regularly spout water to the tune of classical music.*
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Day 4: Versailles - Giverny** - Caen
Journey into Normandy and let the art scene leave its impression on you with a visit to Monet’s countryside home at Giverny.** Stroll through the colorful living work of art that is Monet’s garden, where you’ll see the source for the artist’s inspiration, including the setting for his iconic Waterlilies. Then, set off through the rich pasturelands of Normandy to the city of Caen, your home for the next 2 nights.
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Day 5: Caen - Normandy American Cemetery - Sainte-Mère-Église - Caen
This morning, the exploration of the D-Day Landing Sites starts with a walk through Pointe du Hoc Ranger Memorial. See where the 2nd Ranger Battalion scaled 100-foot cliffs on D-Day to seize the fortified enemy position. Then, pay your respects at the Normandy American Cemetery & Visitor Center. See the stars and stripes raised over the graves of the valiant soldiers who gave their lives in the Battle of Normandy and stop at Omaha Beach. Next, make your way to Sainte-Mère-Église, the heart of the American Airborne operations on D-Day, and visit its parachute-shaped Airborne Museum. Learn the unique history of paratroopers in Saint-Mère-Église, the first French town liberated from the Nazis. Then, return to Caen.
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Day 6: Caen - Arromanches - Saint-Malo
This morning, explore the Caen Peace Memorial Museum, which provides a comprehensive history of the D-Day landings and Europe’s post-war transition. Then, we will visit a local farm. Stroll through their apple orchards and get a taste of their traditional cider. Arromanches-les-Bain awaits with the impressive remains of the artificial Mulberry port built by the Allies to resupply their lines during the liberation of France. After some free time to have lunch on your own, it’s off to Saint-Malo, Brittany’s famous coastal village. Immerse yourself in the beautiful beaches, striking blue water, and views of the fortified Old Town. Tonight, enjoy a freshly prepared local dinner.
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Day 7: Saint-Malo - Le Mont St. Michel - Saint-Malo
Travel to Le Mont St. Michel*** (UNESCO), the “Wonder of the West.” Resting on the border between Normandy and Brittany, this world-famous pilgrimage site sits on the edge of the sea and becomes an island at high tide. Take in the breathtaking views as you stroll through the old village at the base of the Abbey before exploring one of the most beautiful monastic complexes in France, dating back to the 11th century. Return to Saint-Malo and enjoy time to relax or explore independently.
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Day 8: Saint-Malo - Chinon - Loire Valley
Journey south to the Loire Valley, a UNESCO site brimming with châteaux and parks. Arrive in the medieval village of Chinon. Joan of Arc first met young Charles VII here and shared her vision that he would defeat the English during the Hundred Years’ War. Visit the market, abundant with fresh produce, flowers, and local products, and take time to enjoy lunch along the banks of the Vienne River. Next, tour a local winery and discover some of the Loire Valley’s best wines. This afternoon, feel like royalty when you arrive at your 15th-century castle accommodations at the Château de Beauvois. Delve into the history of this site frequented by King Louis XIII as you enjoy some leisure time to explore the grounds or relax on the château’s charming terrace. This evening, delight in gourmet French cuisine in the opulent dining room of your château.
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Day 9: Loire Valley - Chenonceau - Amboise - Tours - Loire Valley
Explore the spectacular Château de Chenonceau at your own pace. Perched along the banks of the Cher River, this romantic castle is a jewel of Renaissance architecture. Head to the picturesque center of Amboise. Enjoy some free time for exploring before reaching Tours, where a local expert will introduce you to the town and their local culture.
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Day 10: Loire Valley - Paris
Travel the French countryside to France’s capital, the City of Light – Paris. Pause for lunch at a modern bistro, before gliding under romantic bridges during a scenic cruise along the Seine River. Take in the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Conciergerie, and Île Saint-Louis peeking at you from the banks of the Seine (UNESCO). As your day comes to a close, make the most of an evening at leisure in this incredibly walkable, world-famous city. Perhaps you will enjoy an optional dinner at the dynamic Paradis Latin**** for a champagne-flowing, can-can kicking, music-driven night at the cabaret.
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Day 11: Paris
This morning, it’s your choice! Take in the most iconic sights of Paris on a panoramic city tour, seeing the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Place de la Concorde -OR- join a local guide and hop on Le Métro to the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre and its iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Take advantage of a free afternoon to write your own story in romantic Paris. This evening, celebrate the conclusion of your French voyage during an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring French cuisine and panoramic views of the City of Light.
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Day 12: Paris - Tour Ends
Set out for home with many magnificent memories.