22 days tour

French Heritage (Small Groups, 22 Days)

French Heritage (Small Groups, 22 Days)

This tour includes:

Meals

9 Dinner with Wine (DW) 21 Breakfast (B) Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine. Troyes: Journey through the Champagne region and stop for a tasting of renowned Champagne wine. Grenoble: Enjoy a delicious dinner in Grenoble. Cahors: See the Pont Valentrรฉ as you enjoy a tasting through the markets. La Roque-Gageac: Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region. Paris: Rendez-vous with your fellow travellers at a typical French bistro for a rousing dinner with wine. Bon Appetit! Saumur: Learn about local grape varieties and regional wine-making traditions as you sample wines of the Loire Valley.

Hygieneprotocol

All guests travelling with Insight Vacations through December 31, 2022 are required to be fully vaccinated against Covid-19, which may include a booster shot to keep the vaccination status current and valid, depending on the travel destination. Children not eligible for vaccination and/or booster at the time of travel must provide a verifiable and negative Covid-19 test result, taken within 72 hours prior to the start of the tour (taking time zones into consideration) for all tours departing until December 31, 2022. While highly recommended, COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters are no longer required for guests traveling with us from January 1, 2023 onward. It is your clientโ€™s responsibly to comply with specific vaccine and/or booster requirements imposed by airlines and/or authorities in the destinations visited, as well as requirements for accessing restaurants and venues, which may be more restrictive than the above. No refunds will be given if they are unable to undertake some or all of their vacation due to failure to comply with these requirements.

Guide

From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination. Dijon: Explore Dijon with your Travel Director to learn all about the history of this fascinating city, famous for its mustard and wines. Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbour.

Others

Monaco City: Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Princeโ€™s Palace. Monaco City: Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Admire grand aquariums of the Mediterranean and tropical seas, and gain insight into the challenges of scientific research in Polar environments. Choose between two carefully selected activities Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Arromanches-les-Bains: Visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum in the heart of the Old Town. Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expertโ€™s fascinating commentary. Hotel and restaurant tips are included - youโ€™ll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels. We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Join a pรฉtanque player to learn the secrets behind this traditional French discipline. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills in a game. End with a glass of pastis, a French apรฉritif. Luc-sur-Orbieu: The Fabre family has been producing wine since the 17th Century. At the heart of their passion lies a strong commitment to protect the natural environment of the region and produce complex yet sustainable wines. Learn about the production of biodynamic wines during your visit to the family-run winery. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 12: Responsible Consumption and Production. Loire Valley: Discover the sustainable gardens of Chรขteau de Villandry. In the scenic Loire Valley, explore Franceโ€™s finest formal gardens. Now a hub for sustainability preserving the estateโ€™s biological diversity, learn all about the a sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages, and purple basil, all grown organically to re-generate the local ecosystem. Their aim is to preserve a remarkable garden, maintained with meticulous care, while incorporating maintenance work into a balanced ecosystem. They have partnered with a local university to bring biodiversity back into the gardens. Villandry Gardens advance UN Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life On Land. Chamonix: Explore the cityโ€™s charming streets set against a backdrop of the stunning French Alps. Annecy: Enjoy free time in the Little Venice area. Nice: Enjoy exploring the beautiful coastal town of Nice on the French Riviera. Eze: Visit a perfumery to learn about the French perfume industry and discover your signature scent. Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral. Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Discover the beauty of this hilltop town and why it became a refuge for artists. Aix-en-Provence: See the mansions of the Cours Mirabeau, a lively thoroughfare in Aix-en-Provence. Pont du Gard: See the ancient Roman bridge that crosses the Gardon River. Avignon: View the Pont dโ€™Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes. Cite de Carcassone: Enjoy an orientation of this fortified town and see the fortress, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Albi: This is the birthplace of artist, Toulouse-Lautrec. Walk the town and marvel at the awe-inspiring cathedral. Montignac: These caves contain some of the oldest and finest prehistoric art in the world. For preservation reasons, they have been replicated in all their glory. Paris: Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris. See famous landmarks including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower and the facades of the Louvre. Stroll the banks of the River Seine and admire romantic bridges, and enjoy a drive along the Champs Elysรฉes to the Arc de Triomphe. Rouen: See the cathedral, the Great Clock, the Old Market square and Place du Vieux-Marchรฉ where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Honfleur: See this charming fishing town. Omaha Beach: Follow the route of the Rangers, visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial. Omaha Beach: With a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent. Mont-Saint-Michel: Savour your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel. Cross the causeway for a guided tour with your Local Expert through the maze of halls and vaults of the abbey. Saint-Malo: Your Local Expert guides you through the streets of the walled city to arrive at the cathedral. Later enjoy the chance to walk along the fortifications and explore the cities nightlife at your leisure. Angers: See the imposing chรขteau. Chateau dโ€™Azay-le-Rideau: During your visit to Chรขteau dโ€™Azay-le-Rideau, your Local Expert will show you the subtle blend of French tradition and innovative Italian decor within this 16th century icon of the Loire Valley. Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Accommodation

21 night accommodation

Transport

Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available). If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport. Enjoy the comfort of Insightโ€™s luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.

Not included:

Optional

Other activities and services not included

Insurance

Insurance is not included

Others

Other activities and services not included

Flights

International flights are not included

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip French Heritage (Small Groups, 22 Days)

  • Day 1 Day 1: Welcome To Paris
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 1: Welcome To Paris

      Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before joining a Welcome Dinner at a classic local restaurant with cuisine inspired by country recipes.

  • Day 2 Day 2: Champagne Region And On To Dijon
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 2: Champagne Region And On To Dijon

      Journey through the vine-clad scenery of the Champagne region. Admire the green shoots in spring, full summer foliage or the russet autumnal hues, this is a glorious region throughout the year. Visit the city of Troyes and admire its medieval Old Town with its colourful half-timbered houses while sipping a glass of champagne. On arrival in Dijon, an orientation by your Travel Director reveals the charming architecture and history of the city.

  • Day 3 Day 3: Free Time In Dijon Relaxed Start
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 3: Free Time In Dijon Relaxed Start

      Enjoy the Burgundy capital of Dijon. Its many handsome buildings recall the time when the Dukes of Burgundy were more powerful than the Kings of France. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune? In the evening, donโ€™t miss the chance of an optional Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.

  • Day 4 Day 4: Chamonix
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 4: Chamonix

      Travel towards the Mรขconnais and Beaujolais before turning east into the Alps. A scenic symphony awaits you as you ascend into the high Alps and climb towards Mont Blanc, Western Europeโ€™s highest mountain. Your destination is the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. You could take in panoramic views of the mountain peaks and valley below from the Chamonix cable car or explore this mountain resort. In the evening you may choose to try a pierrade at a local trendy eatery in a traditional chalet. This Optional Experience provides the chance to try a typical regional meal, cooked on a traditional table barbecue.

  • Day 5 Day 5: Lakeside Annecy And Grenoble Relaxed Start
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 5: Lakeside Annecy And Grenoble Relaxed Start

      In the morning, embark on a beautiful journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, dramatically situated between lake and mountains, itโ€™s a medieval spectacle and a summer getaway for the French and the Swiss locals. Enjoy free time for lunch in Little Venice, aptly named for the network of canals criss-crossing through the Old Town. Explore the cityโ€™s many lovely bridges at your leisure. Continue on to your hotel in Grenoble. This evening, savour a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

  • Day 6 Day 6: The French Riviera To Reach Nice
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 6: The French Riviera To Reach Nice

      Glorious mountain scenery will be yours to enjoy as you travel along a spectacular route, used by the Emperor Napoleon when he returned from his first exile to try to take the throne of France once more. Continue to the French Riviera to reach the elegant resort of Nice. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. In the evening, why not walk through old town Nice, ending in Cours Saleya where dinner is at your leisure at one of the many lovely bistros?

  • Day 7 Day 7: Monaco And The Cรดte Dโ€™Azur
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 7: Monaco And The Cรดte Dโ€™Azur

      Wake up ready to rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Cรดte dโ€™Azur. Unlock the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery, where fragrance experts waft exclusive scents from stoppered bottles. Then enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco and with Insight Choice enter the Oceanographic Museum dedicated to the concept of the Mediterranean Science Commission or visit the Royal Palace of Monaco and see Monaco Cathedral, housing the tomb of Princess Grace. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera at your own pace. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit the medieval village of Eze and its hill-top Botanical Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline?

  • Day 8 Day 8: Picturesque Provence
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 8: Picturesque Provence

      Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. A walk through its winding streets reveals elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls and views of mountains and sea. Enjoy a lesson in the French sport of pรฉtanque. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills as you take part in a game, completed by a glass of pastis, a French apรฉritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau and on to your hotel.

  • Day 9 Day 9: Avignon And Pont Du Gard
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 9: Avignon And Pont Du Gard

      Artistic Arles and the immense Pont du Gard feature en route to Avignon.

  • Day 10 Day 10: Carcassonne And To Albi
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 10: Carcassonne And To Albi

      A scenic drive through the Alpilles takes you to Chateau De Luc, for a wine tasting and MAKE TRAVEL MATTERยฎ Experience. Cross the fertile Languedoc region, before journeying inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. Travellers are often amazed at their first sight of this medieval gem, known for its fortress - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a complete set of ramparts and a medieval keep. Travel to Albi, the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec. During your orientation with your Travel Director, marvel at iconic sites including the views of Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the famous awe-inspiring cathedral, before spending the remainder of the day at leisure.

  • Day 11 Day 11: Free Time In Albi
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 11: Free Time In Albi

      Enjoy a full day at leisure, to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Albi. This evening enjoy a delicious dinner of carefully selected fresh ingredients, at a local restaurant.

  • Day 12 Day 12: Cahors And Rocamadour Relaxed Start
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 12: Cahors And Rocamadour Relaxed Start

      Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentrรฉ. Youโ€™ll also have the opportunity to explore the open air market - full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, itโ€™s an experience to delight all of the senses. Travel to Rocamadour and enjoy free time to explore this medieval town perched on a cliffside above the Alzou River and known as a resting place for pilgrims travelling through France on the Camino de Santiago to Spain. Later we make our way to our hotel nestled in the countryside of La Roque-Gageac.

  • Day 13 Day 13: Exploring The Dordogne Valley
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 13: Exploring The Dordogne Valley

      Start the day with a morning drive into the stunning Valley of the Dordogne to visit Lascaux II, where the world-famous prehistoric cave paintings have been faithfully reproduced. Continue to the beautiful town of Sarlat-la-Canรฉda, its medieval core blessed with fine historic golden limestone houses. Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.

  • Day 14 Day 14: Paris, The City Of Lights
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 14: Paris, The City Of Lights

      Travel onwards to immerse yourself in the beautiful city of Paris where on arrival you are free to explore this fascinating city as you wish. As evening descends, the City of Lights lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour donโ€™t miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

  • Day 15 Day 15: Romantic Capital On The Seine
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 15: Romantic Capital On The Seine

      During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the Luxor obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs ร‰lysรฉes to Napoleonโ€™s Arc de Triomphe. You are in for a memorable evening with a delicious Celebration Dinner of excellent French cuisine and wine to toast your journey through France.

  • Day 16 Day 16: Rouen, Honfleur And Deauville
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 16: Rouen, Honfleur And Deauville

      Follow the River Seine to Rouen, capital of Normandy. Continue to Honfleur and to your luxurious hotel, located in the chic seaside resort of Deauville.

  • Day 17 Day 17: Normandy Beaches And D-Day Landings
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 17: Normandy Beaches And D-Day Landings

      Follow the route of the Rangers and visit the bunkers and the Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Then with a Local Expert, spend a few reflective moments at the American Military Cemetery of Saint-Laurent near Omaha Beach. Explore Normandy with Insight Choice. Choose between visiting the D-Day Museum in Arromanches and see the remnants of the artificial port in the bay. Alternatively visit the Bayeux Tapestry Museum and learn about the epic story of William, Duke of Normandy becoming the King of England. This evening you are treated to a delightful dinner, which promises creative cuisine, seasonal ingredients and delicious wines.

  • Day 18 Day 18: Mont Saint-Michel And Saint-Malo
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 18: Mont Saint-Michel And Saint-Malo

      Journey through Bocage country for an exploration of the hilltop abbey of Mont Saint-Michel with your Local Expert. The abbey stands on an island and is reached by a causeway across the shining sands. Behind the outer ring of defences huddles the small town - itโ€™s one street containing shops, cafes and hotels. Continue along the Emerald Coast to stunning Saint-Malo, situated on the Rance Estuary and one of the most charming places in France. A Local Expert will take you on an exploration of the City of the Corsairs. Walk through the maze of streets of Intra Muros, the walled city, to the cathedral, the burial place of Jacques Cartier and other celebrated voyagers. At your leisure, you can wander around the ramparts of the thick city walls, offering fantastic views over the old town and the bay. By night, the townโ€™s medieval maze of winding streets is abuzz with quaint bars and restaurants. Alternatively, you may wish to join an Optional Experience to Cancale, known throughout France of its oyster beds, for a delicious meal of fresh seafood and other Breton specialties?

  • Day 19 Day 19: Villandry Experience
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 19: Villandry Experience

      Head south to follow the valley of the Loire, passing the moated Angers Castle. Cross the Loire to Saumur, where a local vintner will guide you through tastings of the regionโ€™s delicious wines. Head to Chรขteau de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTERยฎ Experience. Ensure you donโ€™t miss the water, ornamental and kitchen gardens. This stunning sea of fragrant green herbs, silvery cabbages, and purple basil grown organically to regenerate the local ecosystem. Continue to your chateau hotel, where you can relax like royalty in sumptuous surroundings

  • Day 20 Day 20: Scenic Drive Along The Loire Valley
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 20: Scenic Drive Along The Loire Valley

      Journey to the fairytale Chรขteau dโ€™Azay-le-Rideau, considered one of the best representations of French Renaissance architecture. Having undergone extensive restoration, your Local Expert will show you the subtle blend of French tradition and innovative Italian decor within this 16th century icon of the Loire Valley. Return to your own turreted chรขteau for relaxation and free time.This evening, your dinner starts with a glass of local sparkling wine and continues with excellent service and delicious Farm-to-Table dishes in the most wholesome setting, ensuring the memory of your meal will linger long after youโ€™ve returned home.

  • Day 21 Day 21: La Beauce And Chartres To Paris, City Of Light
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 21: La Beauce And Chartres To Paris, City Of Light

      Travel to Chartres Cathedral. From here, return to the French capital. The City of Light really lives up to its name, when the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. Donโ€™t miss the chance to experience one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

  • Day 22 Day 22: Au Revoir Paris
    • 12:00 am - 11:59 pm

      Day 22: Au Revoir Paris

      Today, bid farewell to your journey through the French countryside as you transfer to the airport.

+19
Experience Style

Experience Style

Mixed

There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but youโ€™re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.

Accomodation level

Accomodation level

Medium

This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.

Experience Type

Experience Type

Small Group

Youโ€™ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.

Physical Rating

Physical Rating

Basic

Almost everyone is fit for these activities. Every hike or physical exercise last less than 30 minutes, such as paragliding and horseback riding. Please ask about specific conditions.

Age range

Age range

Min: 5 / Max: 99

Age range allowed for this experience.

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