Best of France
From CAD $6,640
Guarantee
Group Tour
Easy
Rating
(10 reviews)
Experience Overview
Expect only the best on one of our favorite France trips, beginning and ending in Paris. Spend the night as a French lord or lady in an elegant Loire Valley chateau, be inspired like Cezanne was, by the beauty of Provence and visit the playground of Monaco.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 6 Dinner (D)
- 12 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Be My Guest
- Villandry: Return to 17th-century France and join the de Montferrier family on their farm near the famous Château de Villandry for a delightful Be My Guest experience.
Iconic Experience
- Beaune: Step inside the 15th-century Hôtel-Dieu, once a hospital for the poor and now a museum showcasing Burgundy’s medieval heritage. Admire its colorful patterned roof tiles, gothic architecture and beautifully preserved interiors as you explore the stories behind this historic building at the heart of Beaune.
- Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
- Monaco City: See the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married.
- Carcassonne: Explore the fortified city of Carcassonne with a Local Specialist.
- Lourdes: Explore Lourdes, globally renowned as a Roman Catholic pilgrimage site and attracting over three million faithful visitors every year.
- Saint-Émilion: Take in the vine-laden surroundings and established wine-making heritage of Saint-Émilion.
- Mont-Saint-Michel: Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel and cross the causeway to explore the tidal island town.
- Omaha Beach: Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach.
- Giverny: View the gardens that inspired many of Impressionist Claude Monet’s most famous masterpieces.
- Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
- Villandry: Join Local Specialist and environmental educator Elise in the beautiful gardens of the Château de Villandry to see how organic gardening helps biodiversity thrive. Through a hands-on workshop, you’ll learn the tools and techniques gardeners use to care for these historic grounds — an interactive experience that connects you to nature and the people preserving it. Your visit directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15: Life on Land.
Must-see Highlights
- Explore Carcassonne and Paris
- Discover Lyon, Avignon, Monaco, Arles, Lourdes, Bordeaux and Nice
- Visit the Hospices de Beaune, Château de Villandry, the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach and Claude Monet's home at Giverny.
- View the Papal Palace in Avignon, Royal Palace and Cathedral in Monaco, Promenade des Anglais and Place Massena in Nice, Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, Esplanade des Quinconces in Bordeaux, Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, the D-Day Beach of Omaha in Normandy, the Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées and Saint-Sulpice Church in Paris
- See the Roman Amphitheater and the Cathedral in Arles
- Scenic Drive through the Dordogne and the Loire Valley
Trafalgar Difference
- Loire Valley: A symbol of the passing of time, step back with a stay in the regal 16th and 17th- century Chateâu de Beauvois, which opens its doors to those who wish to experience exceptional moments.
Trip Details
Product Code: 30685
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family, 55+
Tour Operator:
Trafalgar (CA)
Supplier Code: 30.92C
Starts: Paris, France
Finishes: Paris, France
Duration: 13 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
Includes
Whats Included
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $6,640 ($511 /day)
Itinerary
All the flavors of France come to life on this unforgettable journey, which kicks off in Paris, the 'City of Light'. Spend your day strolling past its iconic landmarks in search of hidden treasures, before joining your fellow travelers and Travel Director for a dinner and an orientation drive through the city.
Accommodation: Mercure 17 Batignolles
Meals: Dinner
We travel south to Burgundy and on to the medieval town of Beaune. On a visit to Hospices de Beaune admire the colorful geometric roof tiles of the 15th century. Next we continue to Lyon, the gourmet capital of France. Consider spending your evening delving into the epicurean delights for which Lyon is justifiably famous. Why not wander up the city's narrow lanes lined with pastel pink and yellow façades in search of a cozy bouchon for a tasty dinner with newfound friends?
Accommodation: Mercure Center Saxe Lafayette
Meals: Breakfast
Today we journey to the city of Avignon at the heart of Provence. See the Papal Palace and the bridge made famous by the song - Sur le Pont d'Avignon. Continue through the Provençal countryside to Monaco. Upon arrival we'll view the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Princess Grace were married, where we will enjoy a dinner in Monaco before continuing along the Riviera to our hotel.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Nice
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
The sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera are yours to explore today. Consider relaxing on the beach with your fellow sun-worshippers or an Optional Experience could see you visit the hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, consistently named the most beautiful hilltop town in this region. In your free time, soak up the fresh sea air and perhaps indulge in a delicious Salade Niçoise.
Accommodation: Holiday Inn Nice
Meals: Breakfast
Visit Arles with its honey-colored façades, Roman ruins and Camargue culture, and enjoy some time at leisure to explore this beautiful city. Alternatively, choose an Optional Experience to gain a deeper understanding of Vincent van Gogh and local history with our resident expert before winding your way to the fortified city of Carcassonne. A guided exploration of this exquisite, ancient town will reveal the Cité, its double ring of ramparts and 52 towers.
Accommodation: Mercure La Cité
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
We drive toward the Pyrenees this morning and arrive in Lourdes, the global center of the Marian pilgrimage. You will have an opportunity to see the Basilica, perched atop St. Bernadette's Grotto, where the young girl, turned saint, is said to have seen visions of the Virgin Mary. Then, travel west to the Basque Coast, where we spend the night.
Accommodation: Novotel Anglet Biarritz.
Meals: Breakfast
This morning, perhaps join an Optional Experience across the border into Spain to discover more about the Basque Country. Later, after journeying through Les Landes, we arrive in the wine capital of Bordeaux, whose stunning Garonne riverfront and Age of Enlightenment history and architecture have made it one of France's most visited cities. Bordeaux wine has been produced in the region since the 8th century and the biannual wine fair attracts buyers from all over the world. Spend some time seeing the sights during your orientation of the city.
Accommodation: FirstName Bordeaux
Meals: Breakfast
Lush green valleys and wine hills take center stage today during a scenic half-day included excursion to Saint-Émilion, whose wine heritage dates back to Roman times. You will also have free time to explore Bordeaux and perhaps tease your taste buds with delicious Bordelaise cuisine or stroll through the city's historical center admiring its beautiful architecture.
Accommodation: FirstName Bordeaux
Meals: Breakfast
Today, journey to the renowned Loire Valley, known as the ‘Garden of France’. Along the way, you’ll stop for a light lunch with the de Montferrier family on their farm during a unique Be My Guest experience. Appetites satisfied, it’s time to explore the stunning gardens of Château de Villandry during a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience with Elise, Local Specialist and environmental educator, learning how organic gardening techniques support biodiversity. Stroll through the estate’s beautifully designed spaces, from the tranquil water garden, with its shimmering ponds and fountains, to the intricate ornamental gardens. Later, arrive at our special hotel for the night — one of Trafalgar’s Stays with Stories.
Accommodation: Château de Beauvois
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We travel through the patchwork landscapes of Brittany, to the island settlement of Mont-Saint-Michel on the Normandy coast, where we visit the island town and view the impressive Norman Benedictine Abbey. Follow the Liberty Highway to St. Lô and on to Omaha Beach. Reflect on the bravery of the young men who sacrificed their lives for freedom and visit the D-Day Landing Zone to learn how the operation was planned and executed. Arrive later at your hotel where you dine tonight.
Accommodation: Mercure Omaha Beach
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
We travel east towards Paris, stopping at Giverny to visit the house and gardens that once inspired Claude Monet's exquisite Impressionist works of art. This evening, consider a trip to one of the city's renowned cabarets.
Accommodation: Mercure 17 Batignolles
Meals: Breakfast
Join your Local Specialist on a journey through the historic neighborhoods of Paris to see where the locals live and shop. View the remarkable church of Saint-Sulpice. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the sights on your terms. Enjoy a leisurely café au lait in quiet surrounds or consider an Optional Experience to the opulent Palace of Versailles. This evening, we celebrate an epic adventure with your Travel Director and newfound friends at a dinner.
Accommodation: Mercure 17 Batignolles
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
For now it's time to bid a fond au revoir to the Best of France and your fellow travelers at the end of a magical and memorable holiday.
Meals: Breakfast
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Tour Operator
Trafalgar (CA)
Family owned and run since 1920, The Travel Corporation (TTC) is the world leader in immersive travel experiences across an extensive range of travel categories. Each year TTC's 40 award winning hospitality and travel brands connect over 1 million happy travellers to the world. We give you access to the 12 DMC’s behind these brands, so you can build your business by capitalizing on the extensive experience, local expertise, and financial assurance of TTC. LOCAL EXPERTISE The world leaders in travel for over 100 years, we offer unparalleled local expertise with a global footprint. Our 12 DMCs, led by experienced in-destination teams, deliver experience rich travel solutions in more than 80 countries. Additionally, our market based teams are on hand to support across our 40 offices worldwide
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
Trusted Customer - Traveled, March 2025
Excellent as always. Well organized, lots of sights to see, lots of sitting on the bus.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/12/2025
Trusted Customer - Traveled, April 2024
Wonderful Trip in France. Similar to my previous experiences with Trafalgar. Our Travel Director and Driver did an excellent job of making sure the trip ran smoothly by seeing to every little detail. The energy and enthusiasm they brought every day made for a wonderful trip. The itinerary provided a great overview of France and a wonderful opportunity to learn and experience the unique history and culture of each particular region. *Personal information removed by Feefo* our Travel Director was very knowledgeable and did a brilliant job at making sure everyone in our group was well - looked after.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/15/2024
David Hall - Traveled, April 2024
Highly recommended. They take care of everything. It was a worry-free experience where all we had to do was enjoy the sights. Our tour guide, *Personal information removed by Feefo*, was excellent. We got to see much more than we would have on our own. I would absolutely do it again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2024
Terrance Anderson - Traveled, April 2024
Best of France with Trafalgar. Very high quality service, excellent Travel Director. Bus Driver always keen to help disembarking the bus. For others, always be punctual as time delays can add up and frustrate other passengers. Our trip all but 2 with mobility issues were punctual. Accommodation was very good and large luggage delivered to our room always. Wi-Fi on bus was helpful for Facebook uploads and email. For others: Although a busy schedule, a regularly routine helps. Like laying out next days clothes night before, so only things to pack are pajamas and toiletries. Always have your Vox box handy, carry itinerary and spare change for paid toilets. Never pass up a free toilet. Optional extras make the trip even better, do as many as you can. For Trafalgar: *Personal information removed by Feefo* our Travel Director was terrific, helpful, knowledgeable and attentive. Our driver was always keen to help and very professional. We loved our trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/12/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, December 2025
Great trip covering most of the key places in France. I booked through a travel agent so didn't deal directly with Trafalgar but all seemed ok. At least an extra day needs to be added for Mont St. Michel and Normandy. These were both squashed into 1 day leaving only 1 hour to see Mont St Michel and 1 hour to see Normandy which was not enough time. I would prefer to have spent more to have the extra day. Otherwise the trip was great, David the tour director was excellent, knowledgeable and very pleasant with lots of information about the places we visited.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/16/2025
Donna Hillard - Traveled, October 2024
Trafalgar handles everything. Even luggage. Travel is so easy with Trafalgar. We got a good tour of France and saw so many beautiful sights and cities. The food was great.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2024
Brenda Dawson - Traveled, April 2024
Amazing Best of France. Service was amazing, itinerary was a great taste of France. Our tour director *Personal information removed by Feefo* and driver *Personal information removed by Feefo*, they were both outstanding. They made a great team. *Personal information removed by Feefo* truly made this trip exceptional, her passion for France and pleasing her guests amazing/exceptional. *Personal information removed by Feefo* hands on tending to all her guests (ducklings) again exceptional. Her ability to story tell was also amazing. Our group was also exceptional. We enjoyed all the accommodations on this tour. The extra excursions also were great. And being part of be our guest exceptional, staying at a chateau outstanding and visiting a local farm. France is a beautiful country so glad we got to explore and see many of the outstanding spots picked by Trafalgar. Krista used the WhatsApp to communicate with her guests this was a great tool to communicate, share pics and reduce paper. Truly was the Best of France. An Amazing Itinerary enjoyed it, Trafalgar has but together a great itinerary to get a taste of all of France.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/10/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, April 2024
Itinerary was perfect. Exact amount of time in each locale. *Personal information removed by Feefo* (guide) and *Personal information removed by Feefo* (driver) were a great team. *Personal information removed by Feefo* was so knowledgeable and *Personal information removed by Feefo* was an amazing driver navigating the tight streets in small villages and large cities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/09/2024
Walter Cuff - Traveled, April 2024
Great trip. Saw most of France with good explanations of what we were looking at. Food, wine, experiences and most lodging was first rate. *Personal information removed by Feefo* the guide was great as was *Personal information removed by Feefo* the driver. A first-rate experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/11/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, September 2024
This trip was excellent. It was far beyond what I would have hoped for and I feel like I was exposed to "the Best of France". The trip director *Personal information removed by Feefo* is very knowledgeable, very organized and helpful. Our driver *Personal information removed by Feefo* is a very skillful driver, as we were able to see in almost all the narrow streets in France. I enjoyed my trip tremendously and would not hesitate to recommend Trafalgar to anybody.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2024
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