Prices

£1,755.00 Adult from

Enquire about this tour Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878

13 Day – Best of France

Embark on an enchanting 13-day “Best of France” tour. A captivating journey that begins and ends in the iconic city of Paris. This meticulously crafted itinerary invites you to discover the diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures that define France. Alongside a special visit to the glamorous Principality of Monaco. From ancient Roman ruins to medieval walled cities, and world-renowned vineyards to solemn D-Day beaches. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of France’s most cherished treasures.

Paris to the French Riviera

Your adventure begins in the magnificent capital, Paris, where you’ll be introduced to its iconic landmarks. Marvel at the grandeur of the Champs-Élysées, the impressive Arc de Triomphe, and the dazzling Eiffel Tower. Soaking in the city’s unparalleled charm.

Journey south to the heart of Burgundy, visiting the charming town of Beaune before reaching Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital. Where an orientation will reveal its culinary delights. Continue to the dazzling French Riviera, making a special stop in the opulent Principality of Monaco, a world of luxury and stunning coastal views.

Delve into the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence, an artist’s paradise, with a visit to Arles. In Avignon, marvel at the historic Palace of the Popes and view the legendary Pont d’Avignon. Step back in time within the magnificent walled city of Carcassonne, a UNESCO World Heritage site that feels straight out of a fairy tale. Your journey continues to Lourdes, a significant pilgrimage site, where you’ll visit St. Bernadette’s Grotto, offering a moment of reflection.

Bordeaux, Loire Valley and Normandy

Experience the elegance of the Atlantic coast in Biarritz, a beautiful seaside resort. Discover the world-famous wine region of Bordeaux, enjoying an orientation tour of the city and a visit to the charming wine village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO site renowned for its vineyards.

As you head north, the tour takes you to the enchanting Loire Valley, where a Local Specialist will guide you through the exquisite Château de Chenonceau, gracefully spanning the River Cher. Witness the awe-inspiring tidal island of Mont-Saint-Michel, viewing its magnificent abbey perched atop a rocky isle. Gain a profound understanding of history in Normandy, hearing poignant stories about D-Day.

Conclude your journey through charming French towns with visits to the picturesque port of Honfleur and Rouen, where you’ll view its stunning cathedral, before returning to Paris with memories to last a lifetime. This comprehensive tour includes an expert Travel Director, comfortable cherry-picked hotels, daily breakfasts and many meals, city orientation tours, audio headsets, and travel by luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi.

12 Nights

Accommodation

16 Meals

12 Breakfasts
4 Dinners

Transport

Luxury air conditioned coach
with WiFi*

Prices

£1,755.00 Adult from

Chat with us online

Speak to an Agent
Enquire about this tour

Tour Highlights

View the iconic Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, and Eiffel Tower in Paris.
Visit the charming town of Beaune in Burgundy.
Enjoy a gastronomic orientation of Lyon.
Experience the glamour of the Principality of Monaco.
Explore the historic artist's paradise of Arles.
View the majestic Palace of the Popes in Avignon.
Walk across the historic Pont d'Avignon.
Discover the medieval walled city of Carcassonne.
Visit St. Bernadette's Grotto in Lourdes.
Experience the elegant seaside resort of Biarritz.
Enjoy an orientation tour of Bordeaux, the wine capital.
Visit the famous wine village of Saint-Émilion.
Explore the magnificent Château de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley.
View the awe-inspiring abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel.
Learn about the significant history of D-Day in Normandy.
Visit the picturesque port of Honfleur.
Admire the stunning cathedral in Rouen.

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

Tour Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive Paris: Begin Your French Fairytale

It’s time to immerse yourself in Paris’s grand past, its dynamic present, and its exciting future. This capital city truly doesn’t hold back, and it invites you to dive right into its rich history, vibrant culture, and unparalleled culinary delights. From gazing at the iconic Iron Lady (Eiffel Tower) to savouring delectable croque monsieurs, enjoying leisurely moments on the banks of the Seine, or exploring world-class museums and monuments, Paris has it all. After checking into your hotel, you’ll have time to relax or begin exploring the city your way. You might like to get a head start on your sightseeing by joining a Choice Experience – a delightful Seine cruise combined with a scenic drive, taking in many of Paris’s major sights.

Accommodation: Mercure Paris Porte d’Orleans (or similar)

Day 2 - Paris Sightseeing and Free Time: Elegance and Artistry

The Parisians certainly know a thing or two about beauty, elegance, and a life well-lived, and your full day in Paris will deliver this in abundance. Hit its grand boulevards on a comprehensive city sightseeing tour through the heart of the city, expertly conducted by your Travel Director. Marvel at the magnificent Arc de Triomphe and stroll along the world-famous Champs Élysées. Afterward, spend the rest of the day discovering the city on your terms. Don’t resist the urge to tread in the footsteps of artistic giants like Picasso and Dalí during an optional visit to Montmartre this afternoon, exploring its charming cobbled streets and lively Artist’s Square. For a truly memorable evening, consider enjoying an optional dinner experience tonight.

Accommodation: Mercure Paris Porte d’Orleans (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 - Paris – Beaune – Lyon: From City of Light to Gastronomic Delights

Au revoir Paris! The City of Light will keep shining, but for now, your sights are set on the medieval charm of Beaune, where the local wine serves as its delightful raison d’être. The beautiful marketplace and the stunning 15th-century Hôtel-Dieu are yours to explore. Afterward, continue your journey south to Lyon. Get your bearings during an orientation tour of this culinary capital, then perhaps consider joining a Choice Experience delving into the city’s rich history and the classical French cuisine that helped make it world-famous.

Accommodation: Chromatics (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 4 - Lyon – Aix-en-Provence – Monaco – French Riviera: Sun-Kissed Shores

Follow the scenic Rhône Valley south and enjoy some delightful free time in the charming Provençal town of Aix-en-Provence, historically founded by the Romans over natural hot springs. The final leg of your journey southwards stretches out to the shimmering Mediterranean coast, where the opulent Principality of Monaco and the glamorous Côte d’Azur await. Keep your cameras ready as you drive along its elegant boulevards, attempting to capture the undeniable sophistication that seems to ooze from every corner of this luxurious region.

Accommodation: Ibis Cannes Mandelieu (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 5 - French Riviera Free Day: Riviera Glamour & Coastal Bliss

Enjoy a glorious full free day on the French Riviera. While there’s no shame in spending the day luxuriating on a sun-lounger with a refreshing cocktail, if you can pull yourself away from the beach, you’ll want to join your fellow travellers for an optional exploration of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Life is truly idyllic in this enchanting walled hill-town, and like some of its famous past residents, you’ll undoubtedly want to linger here a little longer. Keep an eye out – you never know who you might spot seated in those sleek Ferraris and private yachts that dot the French Riviera!

Accommodation: Ibis Cannes Mandelieu (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 - French Riviera – Arles – Pont du Gard – Avignon: Roman Wonders & Papal History

Like a scene straight from the pages of a children’s storybook, Carcassonne stands proudly on a hillside behind its formidable fortified stone walls. Its undeniable charm is evident as you explore the town’s 12th-century architecture and turreted medieval castle. From fairy tales to the foothills of the Pyrénées, your next stop is the town of Lourdes, where you’ll tread in the footsteps of millions of pilgrims. Pay homage to St. Bernadette and view the basilica atop the Grotto where she is said to have seen visions of the Virgin Mary. This evening presents a deeply moving opportunity to join a procession by torchlight with the pilgrims – a truly magical and memorable experience.

Accommodation: Mercure Imperial (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Avignon – Carcassonne – Lourdes: Medieval Fortresses to Sacred Sanctuaries

Accommodation: Mercure Imperial (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 - Lourdes – Biarritz – Bordeaux: Atlantic Coast & Wine Country

The beach is back on the agenda today, so get your hat and sunglasses ready for a trip to the glamorous seaside town of Biarritz on the Atlantic coast. There’s no need to overthink what to do next – take your cue from the European royals who have been visiting this resort town since the 1800s and find your new favourite spot on a wicker chair in the sun. If watching local surfers perform their stunts isn’t enticing enough, you could choose a Choice Experience delving into the fascinating Basque Country. After a good dose of sun, sea, and lofty peaks, it’s back into the rolling countryside of Les Landes and onwards to our final destination of the day, Bordeaux.

Accommodation: Ibis Centre Mériadeck (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 9 - Bordeaux – Saint-Émilion – Tours: Vineyards and Châteaux Gateways

After a night sampling exquisite Bordeaux blends and exploring the city’s eclectic mix of street life and well-preserved 18th-century architecture, a new adventure awaits. The hilltop village of Saint-Émilion is an utterly appealing stop for red wine lovers. This is true château country, and there’s no better way to explore it than by joining an optional wine tasting at a historic vineyard. Continue to your hotel near the city of Tours, famously known as the gateway to the stunning Loire Valley.

Accommodation: ibis Tours Centre Gare (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 - Loire Valley and Châteaux Excursion: Royal Grandeur

Indulge your inner king or queen today as you embark on a whimsical tour to Chenonceau with a Local Specialist. This enchanting, fairy-tale château gracefully straddling the Cher River is undoubtedly the most photographed sight in the Loire Valley, and it’s easy to see why. Explore its priceless collections of Renaissance art and furniture, then stroll through the exquisite landscaped gardens before continuing to the royal town of Amboise, where Leonardo da Vinci is said to be buried. Your encounter with French nobility not quite at its end, you’ll also view the splendid Château de Chambord, one of the world’s most remarkable châteaux. Make the most of your last night back in Tours with an Optional Experience to visit the Old Town and enjoy delicious Touraine cuisine in a traditional restaurant.

Accommodation: ibis Tours Centre Gare (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 11 - Tours – Mont Saint-Michel – D-Day Landing Beaches (Omaha) – Deauville: History & Coastal Beauty

Only the epic sight of a medieval town rising majestically out of the sea could compete with the beauty of the Loire Valley, and your visit to Mont Saint-Michel will certainly not disappoint. Hear how the Archangel inspired the Bishop of Avranches to build a church atop this rocky outcrop. Then, continue your poignant journey to the iconic D-Day landing beaches, where thousands of Allied soldiers first landed on French soil in what became the largest seaborne invasion in history. After a solemn stop at the Normandy American Cemetery at Omaha Beach, you’ll continue on to your hotel in Deauville. This elegant resort is renowned for its racecourse, charming harbour, and high-profile international film festival held every September.

Accommodation: Ibis Deauville Centre (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 12 - Deauville – Honfleur – Rouen – Paris: Artistic Ports & Historic Cities

You’ll wish you had the talents of Monet during your brief visit to the colourful port town of Honfleur. It’s easy to see why this ‘most ravishing spot in the world’ was immortalised on canvas by many of the world’s greatest artists. Next, head to Rouen, where Joan of Arc was tragically burned at the stake. Despite this solemn episode, there’s much to fall in love with here, from the charming cobbled streets to the stunning Gothic churches and the impressive cathedral. After a busy day engaging with all that history, return to the glittering French capital for the final evening of your adventure. Consider joining an Optional Experience dinner and a dazzling cabaret performance for a grand celebration of your memorable journey with new friends.

Accommodation: Mercure Paris Porte d’Orleans (or similar)
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13 - Depart Paris: Farewell to France

And just like that, you’ve seen all the magnificent highlights of France. From Paris and beyond, you’ll be finishing your trip this morning with a lifetime’s supply of cherished memories. Say a fond au revoir to your Travel Director and newfound friends.

Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

What’s Included:

Expert Travel Director & Professional Driver: Benefit from experienced guidance throughout your journey.
Quality Accommodation: Stay in hand-picked, trusted hotels chosen for your comfort.
Delicious Meals: Enjoy many included meals, including daily breakfasts.
City Orientation Tours: Get acquainted with each new destination through insightful tours.
Audio Headsets: Enhance your included sightseeing with personal audio commentary.
Comfortable Transport: Travel in a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi (available in most countries).
Choice Experiences: Access a wide variety of optional activities to tailor your trip.

Not included in the price:

Flights: International airfare is separate but can be added when you book your trip. Some tours will have included internal flight.
Extra Hotel Nights: Pre or post-tour accommodation isn’t included, but you can arrange these during the booking process.
Choice Experiences: These optional activities can be booked and paid for while you’re on your tour.
Airport Transfers: These can be arranged when you book your trip.

Departures:

This tour departs on Fridays from April to October each year. Contact us for live availability and more details.

Pricing:

The price displayed on our trip page is for a twin room, when two people are sharing. To check the solo price for a trip please contact us.

Please note the price shown is a ‘from price’ and it will vary throughout the year. Some times of the year will be more expensive. All prices are subject to availability.

Luggage:

Each guest is permitted one suitcase. This suitcase should not exceed 23kg (50lbs) in weight and its dimensions must be no larger than 76cm x 46cm x 25cm (30” x 18” x 10”).

For your carry-on or hand luggage, you are allowed one piece per person. This must not exceed 30cm x 28cm x 14cm (12”x11”x6”) to ensure it fits comfortably under your coach seat or in the small overhead compartment.

We highly recommend testing the weight of your baggage before your trip. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it yourself for short distances.

Please remember that airline baggage allowances can differ, so it’s essential to check with your specific carrier for their exact rules before you travel.

FAQs

Your Tour Experience

Accommodation: You’ll stay in quality 3 & 4-star hotels, all pre-booked. Hotels listed in itineraries can change, but alternatives will be of similar standard and location.
Travel Group: You’ll travel with a diverse group of fellow tourists, accompanied by your dedicated Driver and Travel Director.
Travel Director: Your expert guide who manages logistics, offers local insights, and helps book optional “Choice Experiences.”
Driver: Ensures comfortable and safe travel on private, air-conditioned coaches.
Choice Experiences: These are optional activities you pay for during your trip, allowing you flexibility to customise your itinerary and budget as you go.
Free Time: Tours are designed to include plenty of free time for you to explore independently or enjoy optional activities.

Optional Activities (“Choice Experiences”)

Booking “Choice Experiences”: Your Travel Director will provide details and facilitate bookings for optional “Choice Experiences” once you are on the tour. You can choose to participate in as many or as few as you like.
Payment for “Choice Experiences”: Payment for these optional activities is made directly to your Travel Director while on tour, providing flexibility.

Tour Pace & Activities

Pace of Travel: Our tours are designed to be efficient, ensuring you see many sights each day. You’ll move at a steady pace to make the most of your time.
Time on the Coach: Travel time between destinations varies. We schedule comfort stops approximately every 2-3 hours and incorporate scenic drives and points of interest into the journey.
Physical Activity: While trips are designed to be accessible, most do involve walking, often on uneven surfaces, uphill, or using stairs. You should be able to walk unassisted for up to 30 minutes comfortably. More strenuous activities are noted in the itinerary. Consider if the trip suits your mobility level

Important Considerations

Trip Price Adjustments: Prices are subject to change due to cost fluctuations or exchange rates, but no surcharges will be applied to the land-only price once the final balance is paid, except for certain government-imposed charges or fuel increases. No changes within 20 days of departure.
Minimum Numbers: Some trips require a minimum number of participants. If not met, the trip may be cancelled or rescheduled with at least 30 days’ notice.
Hotel Changes: Hotels are subject to change, but a comparable alternative will be provided.

What is a “Definite Departure”?

A “Definite Departure” means your trip is guaranteed to run! This status is given to tour dates that have already met the minimum number of bookings required. While we can’t share exact numbers, the system regularly updates these dates as they become definite.

What if my chosen date isn’t definite yet?

You’re welcome to book a departure date that isn’t yet marked as definite. In the unlikely event that your chosen date doesn’t reach the minimum number of guests, we’ll offer you the best alternative dates for your trip or a full refund of any payments you’ve made. We’ll always contact you if there are any changes to your departure, whether it’s definite or not.

Documentation & Entry Requirements

Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
Visas & Permits: You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas and permits for the countries you’ll visit or transit through. Check embassy or consulate requirements well in advance, as these vary by nationality and can take time. Multiple-entry visas may be needed if you enter a country more than once.
Identification: Always carry proper identification, as passports will be required at border crossings. Your Travel Director will assist, but be prepared to open luggage and answer simple questions from border officials.

Booking & Payments

Deposits & Final Payments: You can book with a non-refundable deposit (amount varies by tour level, typically £100 or £200 for land tours). The full balance is generally due 60-90 days before departure, depending on your tour.

Changes & Cancellations

Changes: Contact us to make changes. An amendment fee (£50 per passenger) plus any airline fees will apply.
Cancellations: Notify us to cancel. Cancellation penalties apply, and in some cases, no refund may be possible. Certain fees are non-refundable.

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878
Enquire about this tour

Chat with us online Call +44 (0)20 7170 5878 Enquire about this tour

Our Most Popular Essentials

Hotels

Theatre

Out of London Attractions

London Attractions

Sports Tickets

Music Concerts

Christmas Tours

New Years Eve

There are so many and we cater for everyone so it may be a case of a leisurely Out of London trip to Stonehenge or you may want the buzz and excitement of a theatre tour of London – all the glitz and glamour is there. Out of London, we offer all sorts of adventures: Roman Baths, Shakespeare country, the Royal Pavilion, Brighton – you name it. Same with London – we don’t just do the round London tours – we can take you to Kew Gardens or we can take you on an expedition on the roof of the O2 Dome to the platform at the top offering spectacular views.

So we offer Out of London, Around London, Theatre and Hotels and then there are the spectacular Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day tours – what a way to celebrate the fun season.