From Rome to Paris Mediterranean Escape

Welcome to Rome, the start of your incredible journey! Upon arrival, we will arrange your transfer to the hotel, where you can settle in and refresh. Later, our guide will meet you to share all the essential information you need for your stay, and you can also check the hotel's reception area for further details. As evening approaches, we'll take you to Via Cavour, a vibrant street that offers a delightful introduction to Rome’s diverse culinary scene. Here, you can explore a variety of dining options, from authentic Italian to Indian, Chinese, and international cuisines. Enjoy your first taste of Rome's lively atmosphere. 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.

Our second day in Rome begins with a captivating three-hour guided exploration of this enduring city, a cornerstone of Western civilisation. We’ll traverse the storied streets of Imperial Rome on foot and enjoy a panoramic bus tour, allowing us to uncover Rome's historic prominence. Highlights of our journey will include viewing the majestic Arch of Constantine, the famed exterior of the Colosseum, the ancient Imperial Forums, the legendary Circus Maximus, and the impressive Baths of Caracalla. We’ll also visit the Basilica of Saint Mary Major, the intriguing Pyramid of Cestius, and the grand Castel Sant'Angelo. Our tour wraps up around 11:00 a.m. near the Vatican City. Here, you might choose to extend your adventure with an optional tour of the Vatican Museums and the Sistine Chapel, which will certainly enrich your cultural experience. As the day winds down, we’ll provide a transfer to Trastevere, famous for its inviting array of restaurants and vibrant atmosphere. We anticipate returning to our hotel by 8:30 p.m., leaving you with time to relax and reflect on Rome's timeless beauty.

Today, we will depart from Rome, setting off for Northern Italy. Our first stop is Pisa, where a short train journey from the tourist car park will take us to the famed Piazza dei Miracoli, home to the world-renowned Leaning Tower. Lunch is included during our time here. We will then continue our journey, travelling through the picturesque Mediterranean landscape. We’ll make a brief stop in Sestri Levante, a charming seaside town popular with tourists. As the day progresses, we will reach the French Riviera, arriving in Nice by late afternoon. Please note that on certain days, accommodations may be arranged near Nice along the French Riviera.

After breakfast, we embark on an enchanting exploration of the Côte d'Azur and the Mediterranean coast. Our morning begins with a scenic coach tour through Nice, the vibrant capital of the region. We travel along the famous Promenade des Anglais, offering captivating views of the azure sea, and pass through the bustling Massena Square, before admiring the charming old port. Our journey continues to Sainte-Maxime, a picturesque seaside town. Here, you'll have the opportunity to wander around its historic centre and picturesque port, home to the 16th-century Square Tower. From Sainte-Maxime, we board a boat to cross the beautiful bay to the renowned enclave of Saint-Tropez. This former fishing village is now a glamorous retreat, known for its luxurious yachts. You'll have time to explore the area and enjoy lunch at your leisure. In the afternoon, we proceed to Marseille, the bustling second-largest city in France, where we discover the vibrant Vieux Port, steeped in history and local culture.

Today, we will begin our exploration of Provence, a region famed for its picturesque villages, breathtaking landscapes, and rich historical tapestry. Our first stop is Arles, a city recognised by UNESCO for its outstanding Roman and medieval heritage, and a place closely associated with the work of Vincent van Gogh. After soaking in the history, we move on to the medieval village of Les Baux, where you will enjoy entry to Carrières de Lumières. Here, immerse yourself in an extraordinary multimedia art show set within dramatic old quarries. Following the visit, it's off to Avignon, where you'll have time for a leisurely lunch and a wander around this city, famed for the vast Palais des Papes. Our day concludes with a journey to Lyon, where we will stroll through its charming old town, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We’ll take a cable car ride up to the splendid Notre-Dame de Fourvière basilica, which offers stunning views across the city. Note: If Carrières de Lumières is closed or tickets aren’t available, we will instead take you to Pont du Gard, a remarkable Roman aqueduct.

Departing from Lyon, we journey into the picturesque Burgundy region, renowned for its rich history and wine production. Our first stop is Tournus, a charming town distinguished by its sturdy stone gate and a fascinating, expansive abbey. Following this, we head to Beaune, the vibrant hub of Burgundy’s wine trade. Here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch and explore the town, with recommendations including a visit to the wine museum or the historically significant hospice. Our travels then lead us to the historic Savigny Castle, an impressive 15th-century edifice located deep in this winemaking region. The castle hosts an array of intriguing museums featuring collections of motorbikes, racing cars, planes, and helicopters. Our day concludes in Dijon, the lively capital of Burgundy, known for its bustling streets and a wealth of medieval and Renaissance architecture, prominently featuring the grand Palace of the Dukes.

Departing from Dijon, we'll begin our day by visiting the illustrious Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you will be granted admission to explore this significant Cistercian landmark. Our journey continues to Semur-en-Auxois, a charming medieval town encompassed by formidable ancient walls, offering a glimpse into its storied past. Continuing through the Burgundy region, we’ll break for lunch in Vézelay. This picturesque village, renowned for its awe-inspiring basilica that once served as a starting point for the Way of St. James, invites you to wander its quaint streets. As our afternoon progresses, we make our way toward Paris, where we anticipate arriving by evening, ready to embrace the city’s vibrant allure.

Today, we'll delve into the fascinating history of France with a visit to the breathtaking Palace of Versailles. While admission isn't included, you'll have the opportunity to explore its opulent interiors and magnificent gardens, which stand as a testament to the extravagant lifestyle of the French monarchy. Returning to Paris, we'll wander through Montmartre, a picturesque and bohemian neighbourhood renowned for its vibrant art scene, where artists and painters have left their mark for centuries. Later, we'll embark on a panoramic city tour with a knowledgeable local guide, showcasing Paris's grand avenues and iconic landmarks that highlight why this city is admired worldwide. We'll head back to our hotel afterward, but for those seeking further adventure, there's an optional evening variety show available.

Our day in Paris kicks off in the city centre with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower, where tickets to the second floor are included – offering you a chance to enjoy breathtaking views from this renowned iron structure. Following this, we'll take to the water for a serene cruise along the River Seine, lasting around an hour and fifteen minutes. The afternoon is yours to explore the vibrant city at your leisure, capturing the essence of Paris' charm. Please note that if queues at the Eiffel Tower are excessively long, we may rearrange your visit for another time or the following Sunday for your convenience. (Return to the hotel is not included.)

After enjoying breakfast, your time in Paris concludes, leaving you with a treasure trove of delightful memories to cherish from your journey.