Journey Through France's Enchanting Heritage
Embark on an enchanting 10-day journey through France, starting and ending in the romantic city of Paris. This adventure whisks you through the stunning Loire Valley, where you'll explore charming towns like Blois and Amboise and marvel at the exquisite gardens of Ch?teau de Villandry. Voyage to the Dordogne region to appreciate the prehistoric wonders of Lascaux and the striking historic centre of Sarlat. Savour the rich cultural heritage of Bordeaux, the peaceful sanctity of Lourdes, and the medieval charm of Carcassonne. Conclude in the Burgundy region, visiting Dijon and the majestic Abbey of Fontenay, capped off with a return to Paris.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
10 daysHotel Rating
3-4 star hotelsStarts
ParisEnds
ParisMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in France that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
NoDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Country
FrancePassengers
$3,476.50
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See
Paris
Blois
Tours
Villandry
Amboise
Chenonceaux
Chambord
Limoges
Sarlat
Beynac-et-Cazenac
Rocamadour
Padirac Cave
Collonges-la-Rouge
Saint-Émilion
Bordeaux
Lourdes
Carcassonne
Narbona
Marseille
Arles
Avignon
Lyon
Tournus
Savigny Castle
Beaune
Dijon
Abbey of Fontenay
Semur-en-Auxois
Vézelay
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Paris - Blois - Tours - Villandry - Amboise
Our adventure begins in the enchanting south of France as we journey towards the stunning Loire Valley. Our first stop is Blois, a delightful city celebrated for its magnificent castle. Following this, we continue to Tours, the charming regional capital nestled along the Loire River. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll and enjoy a pleasant lunch. In the afternoon, we'll explore the exquisite Ch?teau de Villandry, renowned for its remarkable gardens, with tickets to the gardens included. Our travels then take us to Amboise, a captivating city with a rich medieval quarter along the Loire River. Dinner is included in our day's itinerary. 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.
Day 2 - Amboise - Chenonceaux - Chambord - Limoges
On our second day, we'll continue our exploration of the beautiful Loire Valley with a visit to Amboise. Take a morning stroll through this charming town, which houses the Ch?teau du Clos Luc?, where the legendary Leonardo da Vinci spent his final years. Our journey then leads us to the impressive Ch?teau de Chenonceau, uniquely spanning the river ? tickets for the castle visit are included in your itinerary. Following this, we'll set our sights on Chambord to experience the grandeur of the largest castle in the Loire Valley, with access to its extensive parkland included. As we head further into central France, our day concludes in the renowned city of Limoges, famous for its exquisite porcelain. We recommend exploring the historic centre, where you'll find the magnificent Saint Etienne Cathedral.
Day 3 - Limoges - Sarlat - Beynac-et-Cazenac - Rocamadour
Our journey begins as we depart Limoges, heading into the captivating landscapes of the Dordogne. Recognised for its historic charm and natural beauty, this region promises a day of exploration. Our first destination is Lascaux, where we will delve into prehistoric times with a visit to the museum and a replica of the fabled caves, famed for their stunning cave paintings – tickets are included. Following this, we journey to Sarlat, a town distinguished as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its remarkably preserved Renaissance historic centre. Here, you'll have the opportunity to walk through the scenic streets and relax over lunch. Our next stop is Beynac, where we'll visit a medieval castle that offers commanding views of the river, with admission included. We’ll conclude our day in Rocamadour, a quaint medieval village famous for its cliffside sanctuary. We suggest a contemplative stroll along the Via Crucis with the option of taking the lift back up. Dinner will be provided, rounding off an enriching day's adventure.
Day 4 - Rocamadour - Padirac Cave - Collonges-la-Rouge - Saint-Emilion - Bordeaux
The day begins with a visit to the remarkable Padirac Cave, where we’ll descend to enjoy a boat ride along an underground river, 75 metres below the surface. Afterwards, we proceed to the enchanting village of Collonges-la-Rouge, renowned for its striking red stone architecture. Situated on the ancient Way of St. James, the village offers a picturesque backdrop for exploration and relaxation. Following lunch, we continue our journey to Saint-Émilion, nestled in the heart of Bordeaux's esteemed wine region. Here, you’ll have time to take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets before we make our way to Bordeaux, arriving in the evening. Please note, the Padirac Cave is subject to seasonal closures from November to the end of March, so alternative arrangements may be necessary if visiting during these months.
Day 5 - Bordeaux - Lourdes
Today, we invite you to explore the historic core of Bordeaux, a city whose entire centre is honoured as a World Heritage Site. Take in the beauty of the mesmerising "Water Mirror" and wander through the delightful old town with its winding pedestrian streets and its majestic 11th-century cathedral. We grant you some leisurely time along the banks of the Garonne River, dotted with inviting restaurants perfect for a relaxing lunch. Alternatively, delve into the intriguing world of wine at the CitÉ du Vin, an engaging museum that showcases the history and production of wine. Afterwards, we'll journey towards the picturesque Pyrenees, arriving in Lourdes by mid-afternoon. Here, you may wish to visit the renowned sanctuary and perhaps join the soul-stirring candlelit procession later in the evening. We'll conclude today’s adventures with an included dinner.
Day 6 - Lourdes - Carcassonne - Narbona - Marseille
Today, we embark on a journey through the south of France, starting with a stop in Carcassonne. This city is famed for its impressive medieval walls, among the most beautiful in Europe. You'll have the opportunity to wander and explore its captivating history. Following lunch, we continue to Narbonne, where you'll have some leisure time to discover this historic city in the Occitan region, renowned for its charming old town. As evening approaches, we'll arrive in Marseille, the second-largest city in France. We suggest taking a stroll through the lively Vieux-Port, or Old Port, bustling with activity and lined with delightful small restaurants. Experience the vibrant atmosphere that defines this iconic part of the city.
Day 7 - Marseille - Arles - Avignon - Lyon
Today, we embark on a delightful exploration of Provence, one of France's most picturesque regions, renowned for its charming villages and rich history. Our first stop is Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we delve into its remarkable Roman and medieval heritage, as well as the indelible influence of Van Gogh. Next, we visit the enchanting medieval village of Les Baux, where entrance is included for the Carrières de Lumières – a mesmerising underground spectacle of art, image, and sound in the old quarries. In Avignon, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and explore the city, known for the magnificent Palais des Papes. We then continue to Lyon, where we will wander through the historic old town, also a World Heritage Site, and ride the cable car to Notre-Dame de Fourvière. This grand basilica offers a splendid view over the city. Please note, if the Carrières de Lumières is closed or tickets are unavailable, we will visit the Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard instead.
Day 8 - Lyon - Tournus - Savigny Castle - Beaune - Dijon
Departing from Lyon, we will travel into the heart of the Burgundy region, beginning our day in the charming town of Tournus. Known for its impressive stone gate and grand abbey, Tournus offers a glimpse into the rich history of this picturesque area. Our journey then takes us to Beaune, the renowned wine capital of Burgundy, where you'll have time for lunch and the opportunity to explore more. While in Beaune, we recommend visiting the wine museum or the historic Hospices de Beaune, a beautifully preserved medieval hospital. Our next destination is the Savigny Castle, a 15th-century fortress nestled in the vineyards. Here, you can discover an extraordinary collection of motorbikes, racing cars, planes, and helicopters housed within the castle's walls. Concluding our day, we'll arrive in Dijon, the vibrant capital of Burgundy. Known for its lively streets and a blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture, Dijon boasts the impressive Palace of the Dukes, a standout landmark that reflects the city's rich heritage.
Day 9 - Dijon - Abbey of Fontenay - Semur-en-Auxois - Vezelay - Paris
We will depart from Dijon and make our way to the exquisite Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you'll have the opportunity to explore this remarkable Cistercian centre with your admission included. Following this, we'll visit Semur-en-Auxois, a captivating medieval town encircled by impressive ancient walls. While still in the Burgundy region, you'll have time to explore and enjoy lunch in Vézelay, a village famed for its stunning basilica, once a starting point for pilgrims on the Way of St. James. In the afternoon, we'll continue our journey back to Paris, arriving in the evening, where you can reflect on the day's adventures.
Day 10 - Paris
Following breakfast, our journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of an unforgettable adventure through France.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Paris
Pre-Tour Accommodation - Paris
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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