France Magnifique

France Magnifique

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12 Days From

$3999

$3885

France Magnifique

12 Days Starting in Versailles, France and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: Versailles, Caen, Saint-Malo, Le Mont St. Michel, Loire Valley, Paris

Tour operator:

Collette

Tour code:

16379

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3999 $3885 (USD) Tourhub's Discount: -$114

NB: Prices correct on 10-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on the "France Magnifique" tour and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of French history, art, and culture. Begin your journey in the opulent Palace of Versailles, exploring the private apartments of King Louis XIV and the enchanting gardens. Discover the vibrant hues of Monet's Garden in Giverny and reflect on history at the Normandy American Cemetery. Experience the charm of the Loire Valley with a stay at the 15th-century Château de Beauvois and a visit to the Renaissance Chenonceau Castle. Savor local flavors with a winery tour and exclusive dining experiences, including a memorable dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Cruise along the Seine River, taking in Paris's iconic landmarks, and choose between a panoramic city tour or a Montmartre walking tour. This unforgettable journey through France's celebrated cities and picturesque countryside promises a blend of romance, history, and culinary delights.

Highlights

  • Admire famous landmarks from the water while cruising along the River Seine.

  • Be mesmerized by the ever-changing colors of Monet’s Garden in Giverny.

  • Ponder history at Normandy's Memorial Peace Museum and Omaha Beach Cemetery.

  • Explore Chenonceau Castle, the Renaissance country residence of the French Royals.

  • Immerse yourself in the private apartments of King Louis XIV in the Royal Palace of Versailles.

  • Visit the historic Le Mont St. Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Delight in a tour and tasting at a local winery in the Loire Valley.

  • Enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.

Places You'll See

Palace Of Versailles

Pointe Du Hoc, France

Paris, France

The Eiffel Tower

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Overnight Flight

Location: Versailles

Accommodation Name: Le Louis Versailles Chateau - MGallery

Embark on your journey through France. Bask in the rich history, art, culture and romance of its celebrated cities and charming towns.

Day 2 : Versailles, France

Location: Versailles

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

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.

Day 3 : Versailles - Royal Palace And Gardens

Location: Versailles

Accommodation Name: Best Western Plus Le Moderne

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.*

Day 4 : Versailles - Giverny** - Caen

Location: Caen

Accommodation Name: Hotel

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.

Day 5 : Caen - Normandy American Cemetery - Sainte-Mère-Église - Caen

Location: Caen

Accommodation Name: Hotel Oceania

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.

Day 6 : Caen - Arromanches - Saint-Malo

Location: Saint-Malo

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

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.

Day 7 : Saint-Malo - Le Mont St. Michel - Saint-Malo

Location: Le Mont St. Michel

Accommodation Name: Château de Beauvois

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.

Day 8 : Saint-Malo - Chinon - Loire Valley

Location: Loire Valley

Accommodation Name: Château de Beauvois

Meals Included: Dinner

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.

Day 9 : Loire Valley - Chenonceau - Amboise - Tours - Loire Valley

Location: Loire Valley

Accommodation Name: Hyatt Regency Étoile

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.

Day 10 : Loire Valley - Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Lunch

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.

Day 11 : Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Dinner

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.

Day 12 : Paris - Tour Ends

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Set out for home with many magnificent memories.

What's Included

  • River Seine Cruise

    Admire famous landmarks from the water while cruising along the River Seine.

  • Monet's Garden Visit

    Be mesmerized by the ever-changing colors of Monet’s Garden in Giverny.

  • Normandy American Cemetery

    Spend a reflective moment at the Normandy American Cemetery.

  • Chenonceau Castle Exploration

    Explore Chenonceau Castle, the Renaissance country residence of the French Royals.

  • Versailles Palace Tour

    Immerse yourself in the private apartments of King XIV in the Royal Palace of Versailles.

  • Château de Beauvois Stay

    Experience 2 nights at a 15th-century castle accommodation at the Château de Beauvois.

  • Traditional French Dinner

    Savor local flavors during dinner at a traditional French restaurant.

  • Local Winery Tour and Tasting

    Delight in a tour and tasting at a local winery.

  • Eiffel Tower Dinner

    Enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Paris Cabaret Show

    The optional dinner at the dynamic Paradis Latin for a champagne-flowing, can-can kicking, music-driven night at the cabaret is not included.

  • Lunch on Your Own

    Lunch during the visit to Arromanches-les-Bain is not included and is to be had on your own.

Experiences

  • Immerse yourself in the private apartments of King XIV in the Royal Palace of Versailles.
  • Experience 2 nights at a 15th-century castle accommodation at the Château de Beauvois.
  • Spend a reflective moment at the Normandy American Cemetery.

Options

Paris: Showtime in Paris! Join us for a spectacular evening in one of Paris’s most beloved institutions, the famous Paradis Latin. Situated in a building associated with Napoleon and rebuilt by Gustav Eiffel himself, the Paradis has been running here since 1889. Enjoy a sumptuous dinner with wine, then bring on the champagne and let the show commence! Duration approximately 5 hour(s). Transportation is included. A minimum of 10 passenger(s) is required to operate this option.


Please note that as a typical Parisian cabaret, the show does contain some tasteful nudity and may be considered unsuitable for children. If less than 10 travelers pick this optional, the same can operate using taxi as a transport.

Culinaries

  • Savor local flavors during dinner at a traditional French restaurant.
  • Delight in a tour and tasting at a local winery.
  • Enjoy an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring delicious cuisine and breathtaking views.

Must See

  • Admire famous landmarks from the water while cruising along the River Seine.
  • Be mesmerized by the ever-changing colors of Monet’s Garden in Giverny.
  • Ponder history at Normandy's Memorial Peace Museum and Omaha Beach Cemetery.
  • Explore Chenonceau Castle, the Renaissance country residence of the French Royals.

Choice Highlights

Versailles Palace & Gardens 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.

Giverny 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.

Normandy France's Northern region on the shores of the English Channel has been the venue for important conflicts that have marked French, European, and indeed 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 its apple pies and custards.

D-Day Landing Sites

Omaha Beach 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.

American Cemetery

Le Mont St. Michel 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.

Loire Valley 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.

Winery Tour Visit a local winery to discover some of Europe’s best Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc wines.

2-Night Château Stay Feel like royalty when you arrive at your 15th century castle accommodations at the Château de Beauvois, and settle in for two nights.

Chenonceau Castle

Amboise 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.

Paris 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.

Paris Panoramic City Tour or Monmartre by Metro Walking Tour 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.

Seine River Cruise 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.

Eiffel Tower Dinner 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.

Mode of Transport

Travel through France's picturesque landscapes with a combination of guided tours and independent exploration, including a scenic cruise along the Seine River and visits to iconic landmarks and charming towns.

Accommodation

Experience the charm of France with stays at the Le Louis Versailles Chateau - MGallery, Best Western Plus Le Moderne, Hotel Oceania, and the 15th-century Château de Beauvois, offering a blend of historical elegance and modern comfort.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experience does the tour offer at the Palace of Versailles?

    The tour offers an exploration of the iconic Palace of Versailles, including a guided tour through the Private Apartments of King Louis XIV, followed by an independent visit to the lavish State Apartments and the grandiose formal gardens.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Monet's Garden in Giverny?

    During the visit to Monet's Garden in Giverny, you will stroll through the colorful garden that inspired Monet's iconic Waterlilies paintings, experiencing the vibrant and ever-changing colors of this living work of art.

  • What historical sites are included in the Normandy visit?

    The Normandy visit includes the D-Day Landing Sites, Pointe du Hoc Ranger Memorial, Normandy American Cemetery, Omaha Beach, and the Airborne Museum in Sainte-Mère-Église, which highlight the significant events of World War II.

  • What is special about the accommodation at Château de Beauvois?

    The accommodation at Château de Beauvois is special because it is a 15th-century castle where you can feel like royalty, with leisure time to explore the grounds or relax on the château's charming terrace.

  • What activities are available in Paris during the tour?

    In Paris, you can choose between a panoramic city tour to see iconic sights like the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame Cathedral, or a walking tour of Montmartre with a local guide. Additionally, there is an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower and an optional evening at the Paradis Latin cabaret.

  • Can I pre-purchase optional excursions/activities?

    Yes, the majority of optional excursions and activities are available for advance purchase for applicable tours provided that you make your options purchase prior to 15 days of the tour departure. Collette makes it convenient to reserve presold options by visiting our website for a full listing of activities and excursions or when your reservation is made with our reservations staff. In addition, there are benefits to prepurchasing options including a price guarantee once your tour is paid in full. So, while the cost of an optional activity may change from the time you book your tour, once payment is received in full, your preselected options are guaranteed by Collette at their original price. Although you can still purchase options while on tour, reserving them ahead of time ensures you a spot in the event that the activity sells out. Collette will provide a refund if you cancel a presold option prior to tour departure. Any presold options canceled while on tour are nonrefundable.

  • Can my children travel on tour?

    Children over the age of 5 may travel on a Collette tour accompanied by an adult. Child land rates are valid for ages 5-12, sharing a room with two full-paying adults. Participation in any products that include Safari or Game Drive components, is limited to travelers aged 13 and up. This will include tours to Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa and India.

  • What is the difference between a twin room and double room?

    In certain countries, hotel rooms tend to be smaller than U.S. standard accommodations. A double room is designed to accommodate two people, but may not have two separate beds. A twin-bedded room has two separate beds of any size, and is the type most commonly utilized.

  • Do you provide VISA processing for all applicable destinations?

    Collette does not process VISAs. Every nation has its own specific requirements. Check the embassy or consulate website for the country you are visiting to find the forms and information you need. The process of getting a VISA can take two weeks to two months.

  • Do I need a passport?

    Government-issued ID is required for all air travel. A valid passport is required for all trips outside the USA. All passengers should check with the appropriate foreign consulate for entry and validity requirements. We recommend that your passport has six months validity, and at least 3 blank pages. Passports and visas are the responsibility of each client. International Borders. Any child under age 16 (traveling without a parent or legal guardian to Canada) must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian. Please be advised that if you have been convicted of an offense, or have committed a criminal act that is an offense under the laws where it occurred and would be an offense in Canada, you may be inadmissible into Canada. You will need to apply for a Minister's Permit of Approval of Rehabilitation at a Canadian Consulate. All other travelers should contact the appropriate consulate for entry requirements in other international destinations. In South Africa, children are required to have a passport as well as additional documentation to travel with you into and out of the country. Please consult the South African Embassy for the current specific requirements related to your travel dates. If travelling internationally with a child under the age of 18, please check directly with the airline for the legal documentation that is required. It is the sole responsibility of the guest to procure the proper documentation to travel and many requirements vary by airline and destination. Collette will not be responsible for costs incurred for missed flights or canceled tours where a guest fails to secure proper documentation.

  • Is there a lot of walking on tour?

    We pride ourselves on bringing travelers the very best experiences a destination offers. Our itineraries include many activities and may consist of walking on uneven terrain or significant walking at times. Some of the most unique sightseeing can mean accessing locations that restrict motorcoaches, especially in historic areas. Some hotels/lodges in remote locations may not have elevators. For your comfort, we recommend bringing walking shoes.

1 Select your preferred date

Thursday - Monday

Mar 27, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$3999 $3885 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025
$3999 $3885 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$114 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

May 08, 2025 - May 19, 2025
$4299 $4176 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$123 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Jun 19, 2025 - Jun 30, 2025
$4599 $4468 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$131 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Jun 26, 2025 - Jul 07, 2025
$4599 $4468 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$131 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 15, 2025
$4799 $4468 (USD)

Operator discount: -$200 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$131 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025
$4599 $4468 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$131 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Oct 23, 2025 - Nov 03, 2025
$4499 $4371 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$128 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Nov 06, 2025 - Nov 17, 2025
$4149 $4031 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$118 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Mar 05, 2026 - Mar 16, 2026
$4149 $4031 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$118 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Mar 19, 2026 - Mar 30, 2026
$4299 $4176 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$123 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

Apr 02, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026
$4599 $4468 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$131 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

May 14, 2026 - May 25, 2026
$4899 $4759 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$140 (USD)

Thursday - Monday

May 21, 2026 - Jun 01, 2026
$4899 $4759 (USD)

Tourhub's Discount: -$140 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Collette requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of collette charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 40% of booking price.

    At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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