• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 10

Quality Dining

• Highlight Dinner of local cuisine & wine in the Loire Valley (HD)

10 Days ~ France

Tour Pace
This is an evenly paced tour with three two-night stays in Mont St Michel, Loire Valley and Paris, plus one overnight stay in seaside Trouville. Travelling days have interesting stops en route with great photo opportunities.

DAY 1 – FRI – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Paris.

DAY 2 – SAT – PARIS AT LEISURE
There are complimentary transfers from Charles de Gaulle Airport to your Insight tour hotel. After checking in, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy this fabulous city. Later, meet your Tour Director for a Welcome Drink, followed by a sparkling illuminations tour of the capital – the perfect introduction to Paris.
Hotel: Marriott Rive Gauche.

DAY 3 – SUN – PARIS – TROUVILLE
Travel to the elegant town of Versailles to visit the immense palace built for the Sun King, Louis XIV. Here the members of his court lived in unequalled splendour, enjoying a privileged lifestyle which led eventually to the violence of the French Revolution. Your guide leads you through the royal apartments and there is time to take a stroll in the fine formal gardens. Continue to Rouen, capital of the ancient Duchy of Normandy. Visit the cathedral so wonderfully painted by Monet, and see where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. Your hotel tonight is in the charming seaside resort of Trouville. Consider a scenic drive through the Normandy orchards to learn the secrets of calvados making and visit the port of Honfleur?
Hotel: Le Beach. (BB)

DAY 4 – MON – TROUVILLE – PONTORSON
There are poignant reminders of the Second World War as you drive along some of the beaches of the D-day landings, including Sword, Juno and Gold. At Arromanches visit the Invasion Landings’ Museum and see the remnants of the artificial port, Mulberry B, which remain in the bay. Continue on to Omaha Beach to visit the American Military Cemetery of St Laurent. Afterwards, follow the route of the Rangers depicted in Saving Private Ryan and visit the bunkers and the Rangers’ Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Continue southwards to your hotel near Mont St Michel.
Hotel: Montgomery. (BB,D)

DAY 5 – TUE – MONT ST MICHEL & ST MALO EXCURSION
A locally guided tour of Mont St Michel takes you to the hill-top abbey surrounded by sea. The first structure, a simple oratory, was built here in the 8th century, and was subsequently expanded and enhanced over the centuries. The abbey’s increasing fame attracted pilgrims and, by medieval times, a ‘ville basse’ had developed, with shops and guest houses. Enjoy an insight into the distinctive Breton lifestyle as you head for the Emerald Coast and the magnificent fortified port of St Malo, where Jacques Cartier is buried. Take time to walk along the ramparts and explore before returning to your hotel. (BB,D)

DAY 6 – WED – PONTORSON – LOIRE VALLEY
Drive south to Brittany and follow the valley of the Loire, passing the mighty moated castle at Angers. Cross the Loire at Saumur, where you can sample some of the local wine. Drive quietly past the sleeping beauty château at Ussé en route to the beautiful Château de Rochecotte, once the home of Talleyrand, and yours for the next two nights. Enjoy a Highlight dinner with wine at the hotel.
Hotel: Chateau de Rochecotte. (BB,HD)

DAY 7 – THU – CHâTEAU COUNTRY EXCURSION
Stop at the castle of Azay le Rideau, once the home of a King’s minister, and still surrounded by its moat. Visit the apartments and take time to wander in the town. Then it’s on to the privately owned château of Villandry, sometimes called the ‘Jewel of the Loire’, to visit the apartments and the beautifully restored Renaissance gardens. Don’t miss the water garden, ornamental garden and kitchen garden – a stunning display of plants, fruits and vegetables designed in the 16th century. From here return to your own chateau. (BB)

DAY 8 – FRI – LOIRE VALLEY – PARIS
On a drive through the vast wheat fields of La Beauce, see the impressive cathedral at Chartres looming on the horizon. Stop to marvel at the beautiful stained glass rose window inside this famous cathedral, built on a sacred site. Return to ‘the city of light’, Paris, for a two-night stay. In the afternoon, there is time to explore at your own pace: relax in a Parisian café, window-shop in the elegant boutiques or visit Montmartre, with its street artists and the Sacré-Coeur Basilica nearby. As night falls, consider indulging in the excitement and glamour of a French cabaret, complete with can-can.
Hotel: Sofitel Bercy. (BB)

DAY 9 – SAT – PARIS SIGHTSEEING
A Parisian guide introduces you to all the fabulous sights: see the 13th century Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, with its tale of Quasimodo, hunchback of Notre Dame; drive through the courtyard of the Louvre to the Place de la Concorde and along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. Now a relaxing Seine River cruise through the centre of the city provides an unusual "insight" into Paris. The afternoon is at leisure: perhaps admire the Mona Lisa in the Louvre, buy last-minute presents in famous department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Au Printemps, or celebrate with a farewell dinner. (BB)

DAY 10 – SUN – RETURN TO USA
The tour ends with transfers to the airport. (BB)

• Escorted by a professional Tour Director
• Luxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Train journey by TGV from Paris to Avignon
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 12

Quality Dining

• Dine-Around evening at your own choice of restaurant in Paris (DA)
• Highlight Dinner of local Nicoise dishes on the Cote D’Azur (HD)
• 10 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 1 three-course table d’hôte Dinner, or Buffet, plus tea or coffee (D)

12 Days ~ France

Tour Pace
The pace is exactly as it says in the title – easy. With three nights in Paris, three nights in Nimes and four nights in Nice, the pace is yours to set. You can use your free time to relax, explore or join optional excursions organised by your Tour Director.

DAY 1 – FRI – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Paris.

DAY 2 – SAT – PARIS AT LEISURE
On arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, there are complimentary transfers to the tour hotel. The afternoon is yours to relax and settle in. In the evening, join your fellow passengers and Tour Director for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Sofitel Bercy.

DAY 3 – SUN – PARIS SIGHTSEEING
A guided tour shows you Notre Dame Cathedral, the courtyard of the Louvre and Place de la Concorde before driving along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe and Eiffel Tower. Embark on a relaxing River Seine cruise which concludes with a visit to the gilded Église du Dome to see Napoleon’s tomb. In the afternoon there is time at leisure to relax or take an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles or to the home of the Impressionist painter, Monet, at Giverny. Afterwards, your Tour Director offers you an evening of local Parisian cuisine from a selection of restaurants, before concluding the day with a sparkling illuminations tour of the ‘city of light.’ (BB,DA)

DAY 4 – MON – PARIS AT LEISURE
There is certainly no shortage of things to do and see in this great capital city. Meet the enigmatic Mona Lisa in the Louvre, ascend the Eiffel Tower by elevator or the hill of Montmartre by mini-train for superb panoramic views. Don’t miss the chance to go shopping in the Galleries Lafayette or the elegant designer boutiques of the Left Bank. By night, why not try one of the world-famous cabaret shows for an evening of excitement and glamour? (BB)

DAY 5 – TUE – PARIS – NîMES
Transfer to the Paris station to board a comfortable TGV train for a journey south through fertile vineyards and rich agricultural lands to Provence. See the greatest of the Roman remains, the incredible three-tiered Pont du Gard, before arriving in the old Roman city of Nîmes.
Hotel: Imperator Concorde. (BB,D)

DAY 6 – WED – AVIGNON & COTES DU RHONE EXCURSION
Travel to Avignon where a little train ride gives an overview of this papal city, with its medieval battlements and 39 towers. Pass the old Palace of the Popes and the four remaining arches of the bridge of St Benezet, the Pont d'Avignon of the famous song. After time to explore, head towards the Rhone river and the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to taste the renowned wine, before returning to the hotel. Spend time shopping for fragrant Provencal souvenirs or taking an optional excursion to see Camargue’s unique landscape of lagoons, white horses, bulls and flamingos. (BB)

DAY 7 – THU – NIMES
This morning visit the Roman Arena and see the 2,000 year old Maison Carrée temple. The rest of the day is at leisure to relax or explore. Perhaps visit the shady Jardin de la Fontaine or one of the many museums, or take an excursion to visit the old hill top village of Les Baux de Provence and a local olive oil mill. (BB)

DAY 8 – FRI – NîMES – NICE
Take the motorway to “the most beautiful town in France after Paris”, Aix-En-Provence. After some time to appreciate the elegant mansions and bustling cafés of the Cours Mirabeau, continue to the fantastic Cote D’Azur and its capital city, Nice. On arrival, enjoy an orientation tour before checking into your hotel, your home for the next four nights.
Hotel: Radisson SAS. (BB)

DAY 9 – SAT – MONACO EXCURSION
During your relaxed stay on the Riviera, take an excursion to Monaco, ruled by the Grimaldi family since the 13th century. See the Royal Palace, home of Prince Albert, the yacht-filled harbour and the Cathedral, housing the late Princess Grace’s tomb. Drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit to see the Monte Carlo Casino before returning along one of the ‘Corniche’ roads to Nice. The rest of the day is yours to spend on the beach, shop in the elegant boutiques or sample the excellent cuisine at one of the seaside restaurants. (BB)

DAY 10 – SUN – OLD TOWN OF NICE
This morning visit Old Nice with its colorful farmers market displaying fresh produce and perfumed flowers. Then time to wander through the old town and soak up the atmosphere. The rest of the day is at leisure with time to stroll along the Promenade des Anglais or to join a game of pétanque, a great favorite with the locals. (BB)

DAY 11 – MON – COTE D’AZUR AT LEISURE
Easy pace on the French Riviera means more free time to relax or explore as you wish. Ask your Tour Director about optional tours to the nearby hill-top villages or fashionable Cannes. Or perhaps visit the magnificent villa of the Baroness Rothschild, situated on Cap Ferrat? Tonight, join your new-found friends for a celebration dinner of local Nicoise dishes. (BB,HD)

DAY 12 – TUE – RETURN TO USA
The tour ends with a transfer to Nice Airport. (BB)

• Escorted by a professional Tour DirectorLuxury air-conditioned 40 seat coach with onboard toilet
• Insight Hotels include all service charges, taxes and porterage
• Train journey by TGV from Poitiers to Paris
• Insight Traveler document wallet, map book journal and information pack
• Complimentary arrival transfer on Day 2 and departure transfer on Day 17

Quality Dining

• Dine-Around evening at your own choice of restaurant in Dordogne (DA)
• 15 Buffet Breakfasts (BB) and 5 three-course table d’hôte Dinners, or Buffets, plus tea or coffee (D)

17 Days ~ France

Tour Pace
A well paced tour with two-night stays in five out of nine cities, with the opportunity for some leisurely later morning departures. The journey by TGV train is a relaxing way to return to the glittering city of Paris.

DAY 1 – DEPART USA
Overnight flight to Paris.

DAY 2 – PARIS AT LEISURE
Welcome to Paris! On arrival there are complimentary transfers from Charles de Gaulle Airport to your Insight hotel. Relax and settle in, or perhaps start exploring the riches of this great capital. In the evening, you are invited to join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for a Welcome Drink.
Hotel: Marriott Rive Gauche/Hilton.

DAY 3 – PARIS – DIJON/BEAUNE (SEE NOTES).
Head to the ancient capital of the Champagne region, Troyes: its magnificent centre of medieval buildings is appropriately shaped like a Champagne cork. Continue into Burgundy, famous for its fine wines, stopping in the famous wine village of Chablis to taste the local nectar. Continue to Dijon or Beaune for the next two nights.   
Hotel: Sofitel La Cloche/ Hotel de la Poste. (BB,D)

DAY 4 – VéZELAY EXCURSIONDrive through the leafy Burgundian countryside to the picturesque town of Vézelay, built along a rocky ridge among the northern Morvan foothills. Tradition has it that Mary Magdalene was buried here and from the famous basilica, Richard the Lionheart set off for the Crusades. Later, return to your hotel for time at leisure. (BB)

DAY 5 – DIJON/BEAUNE – CHAMONIX
A scenic symphony awaits you as you head into the high Alps, and climb towards Mont Blanc and the ski resort of Chamonix.
Hotel: Alpina. (BB)

DAY 6 – CHAMONIX – AIX-LES-BAINS
After breakfast this morning, take a breathtaking drive to the lake-side town of Annecy. There’s time to have lunch in the Little Venice area or take a boat trip. Continue to your hotel in the spa town of Aix-les-Bains, situated on the edge of France’s largest and most celebrated lake, Lac du Bourget and overlooked by Mt Revard.
Hotel: Radisson SAS. (BB,D)

DAY 7 – AIX-LES-BAINS – NICE
Travel in the footsteps of Napoleon as he made his victorious return from Elba. A scenic, rugged landscape leads from the Alps, down to the French Riviera and elegant Nice.
Hotel: Boscolo Atlantic/Radisson SAS. (BB)

DAY 8 – NICE AT LEISURE
On a morning sightseeing tour, journey to the principality of Monaco, see the Grimaldi Palace and visit the cathedral, burial place of Princess Grace and Prince Rainier. Enjoy a drive on the Grand Prix circuit and views of the port with its luxury yachts. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera. (BB)

DAY 9 – NICE – AVIGNON
Visit the medieval town of St Paul de Vence, which sits high above the Riviera beaches. There is time to explore before continuing to Cézanne’s home town, Aix-en-Provence. Journey into the Luberon, made famous by Peter Mayle in his book “A Year in Provence”, and pass around Cavaillon, the melon capital of France, en route to Avignon.
Hotel: Grand. (BB,D)

DAY 10 – RHôNE EXCURSION
A short distance from Avignon, see the greatest legacy of the Romans’ presence: the incredible three tiered Pont du Gard. Head towards the Rhône River and the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape to taste the renowned wine. Back in Avignon, take a little train ride for an overview of the town past the old Palace of the Popes, and the ‘Pont d’Avignon’ before taking time to relax. (BB)

DAY 11 – AVIGNON – NîMES
Drive to Arles, one-time home to Van Gogh and Roman legionnaires, and visit the amphitheatre. Continue through the Camargue to Stes Maries-de-la-Mer, where Gypsies gather annually to honour their patron saint. You may see flamingos and wild horses on the way to Nîmes where, on arrival, an orientation tour shows you the Roman Arena and 2,000-year-old Roman Temple, Maison Carrée.
Hotel: Imperator Concorde. (BB)

DAY 12 – NîMES – ALBI
After breakfast, cross the Languedoc for a walking tour of the fortified town of Carcassonne. Like stepping back in time, the city has a complete set of ramparts and a medieval keep. Later, continue to your hotel in Albi, know for its Cathedral and the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec.
Hotel: Hostellerie Sainte Antoine. (BB,D)

DAY 13 – ALBI – DORDOGNE
Stop in Cahors, famous for its ‘Black Wine’, before continuing to Rocamadour. A resting place for pilgrims on their way to Spain, this tiny medieval town is perched on a cliff side above the Alzou River. After exploring the beautiful town and its sanctuary, drive on to your hotel. Enjoy dinner tonight from a selection of restaurants.
Hotel: La Truffe Noire/Relais de Castelnau. (BB,DA)

DAY 14 – DORDOGNE VALLEY EXCURSION
A morning drive take you into the stunning Valley of the Dordogne to visit the town of Sarlat-la-Canéda with its fine historic golden limestone houses. Make your way to the prehistoric site at Lascaux to view the world-famous cave paintings. (BB,D)

DAY 15 – DORDOGNE – PARIS
After stopping at the town of Limoges to visit a porcelain showroom, head to Poitiers to board a TGV train for your fast and comfortable journey to Paris.
Hotel: Concorde St Lazare/Marriott Rive Gauche. (BB)

DAY 16 – PARIS SIGHTSEEING
With a local guide, see Notre Dame Cathedral before driving past the façades of the Louvre and along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. Stop for a photo of the Eiffel Tower before enjoying a scenic cruise along the River Seine. The tour concludes with a visit to Napoleon’s tomb in the gilded Église du Dôme. Perhaps celebrate the tour with a farewell bistro dinner. (BB)

DAY 17 – RETURN TO USA
The tour ends with transfers to Paris airport. (BB)

OPTIONAL PARIS & NORMANDY CRUISE

DAY 17 – EMBARK CRUISE IN PARIS
Transfer from the hotel to your cruise. (BB,D)

DAY 18 – CRUISE TO CONFLANS STE HONORINE
Auvers-sur-Oise tour. (B,L,D)

DAY 19 – CRUISE TO ROUEN
Walking tour of Rouen and the medieval quarter. (B,L,D)

DAY 20 – NORMANDY BEACHES
Full-day tour to the Normandy Beaches. (B,L,D)

DAY 21 – CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC
Visit the charming harbour town of Honfleur. (B,L,D)

DAY 22 – CRUISE TO VERNON
Visit Monet’s home in the village of Giverny. (B,L,D)

DAY 23 – CRUISE TO PARIS
Paris city tour including the Luxembourg Gardens. (B,L,D)

DAY 24 – DISEMBARK PARIS
Disembark and transfer to Paris airport. (B)

Includes

• 7-nights in an outside state-room on River Baroness
• All meals onboard
• 6 shore excursions with English speaking guides
• Captain’s Welcome & Farewell Dinners
• Exciting onboard entertainment and lectures
• Transfers; Paris hotel to Cruise & Cruise to Paris Airport