French Heritage - Small Group

French Heritage - Small Group

84 Views
22 Days From

$11325

$10968

French Heritage - Small Group

22 Days Starting and ending in Paris, France

Visiting: Paris, Dijon, Chamonix, Annecy, Nice, Monaco, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Carcassonne, Albi, Cahors, Dordogne Valley, Rouen, Normandy, Mont-Saint-Michel, Loire Valley

Tour operator:

Insight Vacations

Tour code:

SE326ZN20

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Activities:

Sightseeing, Wine Tasting

From: $11325 $10968 Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$357

NB: Prices correct on 05-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

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

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through France and Monaco with the "French Heritage - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the iconic streets of Paris to the glamorous shores of Monaco, offering a blend of cultural exploration and luxurious comfort. Discover the rich history of Dijon, the breathtaking landscapes of Chamonix, and the charming canals of Annecy. Enjoy exclusive visits to the Prince's Palace in Monaco, the D-Day Museum in Arromanches, and the Bayeux Tapestry Museum. Savor authentic French cuisine with delightful dinners in Paris, Grenoble, and La Roque-Gageac. Travel in style aboard a luxurious coach, staying in renowned hotels like the Pullman Paris Center Bercy and Radisson Blu Hotel in Nice. With a focus on sustainability, explore the biodynamic vineyards of Luc-sur-Orbieu and the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of French heritage, culture, and cuisine.

Highlights

  • Monaco City: Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace.

  • Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco and explore its grand aquariums.

  • Explore the charming streets of Chamonix set against the stunning French Alps.

  • Enjoy free time in the Little Venice area of Annecy.

  • Discover the beauty of the hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

  • See the ancient Roman bridge, Pont du Gard, crossing the Gardon River.

  • Experience the magic of Paris, including iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.

  • Visit Mont-Saint-Michel and enjoy a guided tour through the abbey's maze of halls and vaults.

Places You'll See

Pointe Du Hoc, France

The Eiffel Tower

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Welcome To Paris

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Pullman Paris Center Bercy.

Accommodation Name: Grand Chicago

Meals Included: Dinner

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: Champagne Region And On To Dijon

Location: Dijon

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche, Dijon.

Accommodation Name: Grand Dijon La Cloche

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 colorful 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: Free Time In Dijon Relaxed Start

Location: Dijon

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche, Dijon.

Accommodation Name: Grand Dijon La Cloche

Meals Included: Breakfast

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, don't miss the chance of an optional Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.

Day 4: Chamonix

Location: Chamonix

Accommodation: Alpina Eclectic Hotel Chamonix.

Accommodation Name: Alpina Eclectic Chamonix

Meals Included: Breakfast

Travel towards the Mâconnais 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 Europe’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: Lakeside Annecy And Grenoble Relaxed Start

Location: Annecy

Accommodation: Park Hôtel Grenoble-MGallery.

Accommodation Name: Le Grand, BW Premier Collection

Meals Included: Breakfast

In the morning, embark on a beautiful journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, dramatically situated between lake and mountains, it'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 city’s many lovely bridges at your leisure. Continue on to your hotel in Grenoble. This evening, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 6: The French Riviera To Reach Nice

Location: Nice

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice.

Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Nice

Meals Included: Breakfast

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: Monaco And The Côte D’Azur

Location: Monaco

Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice.

Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Nice

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up ready to rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Côte d’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: Picturesque Provence

Location: Aix-en-Provence

Accommodation: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence.

Accommodation Name: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 pétanque. 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 apéritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau and on to your hotel.

Day 9: Avignon And Pont Du Gard

Location: Avignon

Accommodation: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence.

Accommodation Name: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 10: Carcassonne And To Albi

Location: Carcassonne

Accommodation: Hôtel Saint Antoine, Albi.

Accommodation Name: Saint Antoine, Albi

Meals Included: Breakfast

A scenic drive through the Alpilles takes you to Chateau De Luc, for a wine tasting and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Cross the fertile Languedoc region, before journeying inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. Travelers 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: Free Time In Albi

Location: Albi

Accommodation: Hôtel Saint Antoine, Albi.

Accommodation Name: Saint Antoine, Albi

Meals Included: Breakfast

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: Cahors And Rocamadour Relaxed Start

Location: Cahors

Accommodation: Hotel Le Perigord

Accommodation Name: Le Perigord, La Roque-Gageac

Meals Included: Breakfast

Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentré. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the open air market - full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, it'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 traveling 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: Exploring The Dordogne Valley

Location: Dordogne Valley

Accommodation: Hotel Le Perigord

Accommodation Name: Le Perigord, La Roque-Gageac

Meals Included: Breakfast

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-Canéda, 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: Paris, The City Of Lights

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 don't miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

Day 15: Romantic Capital On The Seine

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the Luxor obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs Élysées to Napoleon'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: Rouen, Honfleur And Deauville

Location: Rouen

Accommodation: Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville.

Accommodation Name: Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville

Meals Included: Breakfast

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: Normandy Beaches And D-Day Landings

Location: Normandy

Accommodation: Hotel Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville.

Accommodation Name: Barrière L'Hôtel du Golf, Deauville

Meals Included: Breakfast

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: Mont Saint-Michel And Saint-Malo

Location: Mont-Saint-Michel

Accommodation: Hôtel Le Nouveau Monde, St Malo.

Accommodation Name: Le Nouveau Monde, St Malo

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 - it'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 town’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: Villandry Experience

Location: Loire Valley

Accommodation: Château De Rochecotte, Saint Patrice, Loire Valley.

Accommodation Name: Château De La Bourdaisière

Meals Included: Breakfast

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 region's delicious wines. Head to Château de Villandry, the jewel of the Loire, to visit the glorious sustainable gardens on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Ensure you don'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: Scenic Drive Along The Loire Valley

Location: Loire Valley

Accommodation: Château De Rochecotte, Saint Patrice, Loire Valley.

Accommodation Name: Château De La Bourdaisière

Meals Included: Breakfast

Journey to the fairytale Château d'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 château 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 you've returned home.

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

Location: Paris

Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris or similar.

Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

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. Don't miss the chance to experience one of the world-famous cabaret shows.

Day 22: Au Revoir Paris

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

What's Included

  • Meals

    Enjoy 9 dinners with wine and 21 breakfasts during the tour.

  • Monaco City Tour

    Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace and visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco.

  • Personal Radio Headsets

    Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.

  • Hotel and Restaurant Tips

    Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.

  • Luggage Handling

    We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

    Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).

  • Transfers

    Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.

  • Luxury Coach

    Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.

  • Hand Sanitizer

    Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

What's Not Included

  • Optional Experiences

    Optional experiences such as a Burgundy wine tasting, a visit to the medieval village of Eze, and a cabaret show in Paris are not included.

  • Transfers Outside Scheduled Times

    Transfers are not included if your flights are outside the scheduled times or if you have booked additional nights accommodation independently.

Dining Summary

9 Dinner (D)21 Breakfast (B)

Additional Included Highlights

Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'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.From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.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.

Insight Experiences

Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Join a pétanque 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 apéritif.

Well-being

Enjoy the comfort of Insight'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.Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.

Check out our Q&As

  • What unique experiences are included in the French Heritage tour?

    The tour includes unique experiences such as learning about the French perfume industry in Monaco, visiting the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry, and participating in a pétanque game in Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

  • What kind of dining experiences can I expect on this tour?

    You can expect a variety of dining experiences including a Welcome Dinner in Paris, a Farm-to-Table dinner in La Roque-Gageac, and a Celebration Dinner in Paris. There are also opportunities to taste local wines in regions like Champagne and the Loire Valley.

  • Are there any optional activities available during the tour?

    Yes, there are optional activities such as a Burgundy wine tasting, visiting the medieval village of Eze, and attending a cabaret show in Paris.

  • How does the tour support sustainable travel practices?

    The tour supports sustainable travel through experiences like visiting the Fabre family's biodynamic winery and exploring the sustainable gardens of Château de Villandry, which advance the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

  • What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation is provided by Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach, which offers double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before each tour and maintained to high standards.

  • What are some of the highlights of the tour in Monaco?

    In Monaco, highlights include admiring the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace, visiting the Oceanographic Museum, and enjoying a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1978.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

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1 Select your preferred date

Saturday - Saturday

Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 16, 2025
$11325 $10968

Tourhub's Big Adventure Sale: -$357

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  • Low Deposit

    Insight Vacations 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 insight vacations charges.

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

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

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

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