Day 1: Paris
Arrive in Paris by air and transfer to your centrally located hotel, situated within the Boulevard Périphérique, the city's ring road that encloses the historic heart of Paris.
Your guide is available by phone in the morning and in the hotel from the afternoon should you need any help.
The remainder of the day is at leisure to begin soaking up the atmosphere of the French capital. This evening, you may opt to enjoy a classic three-course dinner in a traditional Parisian brasserie, offering an authentic introduction to French cuisine and hospitality.
Overnight in Paris centre.
Day 2: Paris
Discover the timeless elegance of Paris on a guided walking tour, beginning at the Louvre Museum before strolling through the beautiful Tuileries Garden and continuing to the magnificent Place de la Concorde, one of the city's grandest public squares.
Later, enjoy a scenic cruise along the Seine aboard the Bateaux Parisiens, departing from the foot of the Eiffel Tower and sailing past many of Paris’s most iconic landmarks before disembarking near the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Enjoy free time for lunch in the fashionable Le Marais, renowned for its elegant streets, historic architecture and vibrant café culture.
This afternoon, explore the artistic district of Montmartre on a guided walking tour, discovering its charming squares, hidden lanes and bohemian heritage.
This evening, you may choose to experience an optional classic tour of Paris by night aboard a vintage Citroën 2CV, offering a memorable way to admire the French capital beautifully illuminated after dark.
Overnight in Paris centre.
Day 3: Paris Tours
Depart Paris and journey into the enchanting Loire Valley, renowned for its magnificent châteaux, vineyards and rolling countryside.
Your first stop is the spectacular Château de Chambord, the largest and most iconic château in the Loire Valley, celebrated for its extraordinary Renaissance architecture and impressive royal estate.
Continue to the banks of the Cher River for a relaxing cruise aboard La Bélandre, offering a unique perspective of the elegant Château de Chenonceau, one of the Loire’s most beautiful castles, viewed from the river below.
Later, visit the atmospheric Monmousseau cellars, where you'll discover the region’s winemaking traditions and enjoy a tasting of local Loire Valley wines.
Continue to Tours, where you'll check into your hotel before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure to explore the city's lively cafés, historic streets and welcoming atmosphere.
Overnight in Tours centre.
Day 4: Tours – Dinan – Saint Malo
Begin the day with a visit to the magnificent gardens of Château de Villandry, widely regarded as some of the finest Renaissance gardens in France. Wander through the beautifully designed ornamental flower beds, water features and geometric kitchen gardens, celebrated for their exceptional beauty and meticulous landscaping.
Continue to the medieval town of Dinan, where you'll have time to explore its remarkably preserved half-timbered houses, cobbled streets and impressive ramparts, offering a glimpse into Brittany's rich history.
Later, travel to the fortified port city of Saint-Malo or nearby, where you'll check into your hotel.
Overnight in Saint-Malo area including dinner.
Day 5: Saint Malo – Mont St Michel Caen
Depart the Saint-Malo area for the charming fishing port of Cancale, renowned as the oyster capital of Brittany. Visit the lively waterfront oyster market, where you'll have the opportunity to sample freshly harvested oysters while enjoying panoramic views across the Bay of Mont-Saint-Michel.
Continue to the legendary Mont-Saint-Michel, where a traditional lunch awaits at La Ferme, followed by free time to explore the remarkable medieval village at your own pace. Wander its narrow streets, browse the local shops or simply soak up the unique atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There is also the option to visit the magnificent the Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey, perched at the summit of the island.
Overnight in Caen area.
Day 6: Caen & D Day Landings
Spend the morning with a specialist local guide exploring the historic D-Day Landing Beaches, including a visit to the poignant Beny-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, offering a powerful insight into the events of 1944 and the human stories behind them.
Continue to the medieval town of Bayeux, renowned for its rich Norman heritage. Your guide will bring the history of William the Conqueror and the city vividly to life as you explore its atmospheric streets. Enjoy free time for lunch in the beautifully preserved old town.
Return to Caen for an afternoon of sightseeing, including an exterior visit to the imposing Château de Caen and entry into the historic Abbaye aux Hommes, one of the city’s most important Romanesque monuments.
Overnight in Caen area.
Day 7: Caen – Deauville – Honfleur Rouen
Depart Caen and travel to the picturesque harbour town of Honfleur, where you’ll enjoy a short, guided walking tour through its charming cobbled streets and colourful old port, with time to relax over a coffee.
Continue through the Normandy countryside with a tasting stop featuring local specialities, including the renowned Pont-l’Évêque cheese and traditional cider.
Journey onwards across the impressive Pont de Normandie, one of the world’s longest cable-stayed bridges, before arriving at the spectacular coastal cliffs of Étretat for free time to admire its dramatic white chalk formations and natural arches.
Overnight in Rouen.
Day 8: Rouen Paris
Spend the morning in Rouen, the historic city of Joan of Arc, with a guided walking tour through its atmospheric medieval centre. Admire the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, one of France’s finest Gothic masterpieces, and enjoy free time for lunch at leisure in the old town’s charming squares and streets.
Later, return to Paris, where you’ll check into your hotel and have time to settle in and relax.
This evening, you may choose to experience an optional farewell dinner in the Eiffel Tower at the Madame Brasserie (subject to availability).
Day 9: Departure
Your guide will remain available throughout the day to assist as required.
