Paris: The City Experience 7 days / City Stays
About This Experience
Whether for romance, history, indulgence or artistic inspiration, Paris is the destination for experiences you’ll never forget. Explore soaring landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and underground hideaways like the Catacombs. Browse some of the world’s richest collections of art and recall la Belle Époque. Sip Sauvignon blanc and feast on coq au vin. Seat yourself at a sidewalk cafe and watch the Parisians do their thing. This is the time to discover your Paris.
Your Tour Includes
Round-trip airfare & transfers
5 nights in handpicked hotels
Breakfast daily, 1 three-course dinner with beer or wine
Multilingual Tour Director
Private deluxe motor coach
Select entrance fees
Why You'll Love It
Flaky croissants & café au lait
The masterpieces in the Musée d’Orsay
Art Nouveau architecture
The Left Bank’s bookstores & boutiques
Notre Dame’s posing gargoyles
Markets & galleries of le Marais
Overnight Flight1 night
Paris5 nights - hotel info
Day2
Browse both banks and fall in love with Paris
Breakfast (in flight), Dinner
Welcome to Paris! A Go Ahead representative greets you at the airport after you clear customs and then escorts you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for beginning your exploring before tonight’s included Welcome Dinner.
Day3
Day4
Remember the Ancien Regime at its most opulent and extravagant
Breakfast
For those of you who love shopping and discovering what treasures you can take home with you, Paris’ department stores and outdoor markets are world renowned, and there’s no place better than the Left Bank to browse for antique books. To discover opulence on a grander scale, journey outside the city on an optional excursion to Versailles, where you can glimpse what life was like as a member of King Louis XIV’s court.
Optional Excursions
Versailles $99* pp
The reign of Louis XIV, known as the “Sun King,” set new standards for decadence among the crowned heads of Europe. It took 50 years and 35,000 workers to turn Versailles, once a small hunting lodge, into the most magnificent château in all of France and the envy of royalty worldwide. On this excursion, you will see the palace in all its glory. Tour the State Apartments and the glittering Hall of Mirrors. Then stroll through the lavish gardens with their fine statuary, splendid fountains and colorful flowerbeds. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 45 days prior to departure.
Day5
Inspire your inner Claude Monet at the gardens of Giverny
Breakfast
Take the day to explore the vibrant Latin Quarter, home to the Sorbonne, and then stop at the Luxembourg Gardens, which inspired Hemingway as he wrote A Moveable Feast. Or visit the Louvre, where you can gaze at the Mona Lisa and the legendary Venus de Milo. Otherwise, opt to travel to Monet & the Landscapes of Giverny and step into the gardens that provided Claude Monet with much of his inspiration.
Optional Excursions
Monet & the Landscapes of Giverny $85* pp
The village of Giverny was home to Claude Monet from 1883 until his death in 1926. On a visit to Monet's home and gardens, discover the subtle palette of colors that inspired his Water Lilies series and gave rise to a new way of seeing. Please note: This excursion is seasonal and runs April through October.
Day6
Is there anything more romantic than the Seine under moonlight?
Breakfast
Give yourself a day of relaxation today. Stop at an intimate cafe to sip cafe au lait and watch the world go by—one of Paris’ most celebrated traditions. Then this afternoon, you can opt to take a walking tour starting at Notre-Dame and continuing through the Jewish and Latin Quarters. Tonight, join our optional Evening in Paris dinner and river cruise.
Optional Excursions
Notre-Dame & the Marais $75* pp
Your guided walking tour of Paris begins on Île de la Cité, the city’s legendary birthplace and home to the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Step inside the cathedral to admire the stained-glass rose windows and seemingly weightless vaulted ceilings. Walk along the flower market beside the island’s Palais de Justice, which houses the Conciergerie, the former prison where Marie Antoinette was imprisoned. Wander past the Hôtel de Ville, the city’s administrative heart, and continue through the Jewish Quarter to the gardens of Musée Carnavalet and Place des Vosges, noted as one of the prettiest squares in Paris. Lunch is included.
Optional Excursions
Evening in Paris $99* pp
Take in the nighttime allure of the City of Light on a special evening excursion. The event begins with dinner at a local restaurant. After you dine, board a boat cruise along the Seine. As you coast along the river and under Paris' bridges, you'll behold the gloriously illuminated monuments of Paris glittering alongside the riverbanks. Please note: the dress code may vary depending your restaurant, and your Tour Director will advise you on what to wear, but shorts and sneakers are likely to be considered inappropriate attire. Please note: This excursion requires advanced reservation and must be booked by 20 days prior to departure.
Extend Your Stay
Add Paris $299*
Paris-the city of life, love and light. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the mysterious Mona Lisa, from the bustling Champs ElysОes to the winding streets of Montmartre, you'll find romance, history and beauty. Browse boutiques, stroll manicured parks, take a seat at a sidewalk cafe and watch the sun set over the Seine.
Paris2 nights
Day1
Gaze at Chartres Cathedral rising out of the surrounding plain
Breakfast
Enjoy today in the City of Light as your please. Alternatively, consider joining an optional excursion to Chartres. Chartres Cathedral is truly one of the greatest of all French Gothic cathedrals. As the spires first come into view, the cathedral seems to hover in mid-air above waving fields of wheat. An expert guide will introduce you to the delicate carvings that cover the cathedral’s facade, the gorgeous stained-glass windows, and the labyrinth that unfurls under the soaring vaults within. Enjoy time to explore the surrounding village before returning to Paris.
Optional Excursions
Chartres Cathedral $79* pp
Discover Chartres Cathedral, one of the greatest French Gothic cathedrals and a famous pilgrimage site. Featuring towering spires, the cathedral seems to hover in midair above the nearby fields. A local guide will introduce you to the delicate carvings that cover the cathedral’s facade, the intricate stained-glass windows and the labyrinth that unfurls under the cathedral's soaring vaults. Spend the rest of your time discovering the surrounding medieval town before your return to Paris.
Day2
Travel to the Champagne region and drink a toast to la belle France
Breakfast
Wile away your final day in Paris. Perhaps you'll visit the city's museums, enjoy a croissant in one of its cafes or make a picnic lunch on the Champs de Mars. Alternatively, consider an optional excursion to Champagne.
Optional Excursions
Champagne Region $129* pp
A local guide leads your sightseeing tour of Reims, with stops at the Cathédral Notre-Dame de Reims and the Basilique Saint-Remi. Explore the city and enjoy free time for lunch before departing for Épernay, where you will visit the town's Champagne cellars and taste two different types of champagne. All true Champagnes originate in this region; anything else is simply a sparkling white wine. Accept no substitutes! Please note: The wine cellars are quite chilly; travelers are advised to wear layers or bring a sweater. This excursion requires advanced booking at least 30 days before your departure.
Passport & Visa
In order to enter France, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport. The expiration date must extend at least six months beyond the date of your return home. No visa is required for U.S. or Canadian citizens. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact the French consulate for your specific entry requirements
Health
There are no recommended immunizations for travel to Paris.
Cuisine
For the most casual snack or picnic, stop at a small grocery store for cheeses, patés, cured meats, fresh baked bread and fruit. Sidewalk vendors are known for their steaming crepes, filled with cheese, ham, fruit or chocolate. Mouthwatering pastries and hot café au lait beckon from the cafés. On the restaurant scene, the prix fixe option is popular, offering a three- or four-course set menu for a good price.
Transportation / Walking on tour
Most sightseeing is conducted by private motor coach. For some included visits and optional excursions, be prepared for some more walking through elaborate monuments and museums, with steps.
Clothing & Packing Tips
To ensure you’re comfortable while out exploring, we recommend packing lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that can be easily layered. For sightseeing, we suggest bringing a sturdy pair of walking shoes or sneakers, as well as a lightweight sports jacket or rainwear. If you’re planning a visit to a high-end restaurant or performance, you may also want to bring dressier attire. Also, please remember that it’s preferable to avoid showing bare legs or shoulders during visits to churches or other religious sites (entrance may be denied on this basis).
Baggage Allowance
Airlines have varying weight restrictions on luggage. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you choose to check any baggage. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline’s checked baggage policies. Bear in mind that your luggage will probably weigh more on your return trip due to souvenir shopping. We allow only one suitcase per person. One carry-on bag is also permitted, provided that it does not exceed 45 inches (length + width + height). There may be times when you will have to handle your own bags, and you’ll find that lightweight luggage provides a distinct advantage. Make sure you label your baggage and carry valuables, medication and documents in your carry-on luggage.
Currency
The euro is the currency you will be using on your tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available in your destination countries, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We advise that you take a combination of bank/ATM cards and credit cards, as needed. We suggest that you inform your bank and credit card company of your travel plans, so that they won’t confuse your international purchases for fraudulent charges.
Tipping
At the conclusion of your tour, it’s customary to offer your Tour Director and driver a gratuity. We recommend tipping in your tour country’s currency, the equivalent of $3USD/CAD per person per day for your driver and $6USD/CAD to $9USD/CAD per person per day for your Tour Director. If applicable, we also recommend the equivalent of $2USD/CAD per local guide. Tips can only be paid in cash. Please keep current local currency exchange rates in mind when tipping.
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The Perfect Vacation
What a fantastic trip! Everything was so well planned and executed. Vanessa (our tour guide) was the BEST! She was always there to answer questions and give great touring advise. The walking tours that she guided were some of the most interesting and enjoyable times I had. Her knowlege and passion for the city was infectious. The hotel, location and travel arrangements couldn't have been better. This was my first trip of this type and I would travel with Go Ahead anytime, and will. If you have any reservations about this tour, take a deep breath and DO IT! You will be amazed. Keep up the good work Go Ahead.
Paris and Patrick !
So this was my first trip with Go Ahead Tours. It has been a wonderful experience from the start. Booking was easy and the staff was very knowledgeable. I was fully informed from the start and all questions were answered. There was no high pressure because they know they have an excellent product. The last time I was out of the states was when I was in the Air Force, so carrying a camera was better than carrying an M-16. When I arrived Patrick took over. He has a real passion for his job and attention to detail. You know from the first minute that you are in great hands. The hotel was fabulous and the staff was very attentive. Patrick gave us all great recommendations and he was always spot on. He knew when to guide and when to step back and let us explore. I was planning on booking another trip before I left and now I know I will be booking another trip to Paris before the new year. I cannot say thank you enough to Go Ahead Tours and Patrick for making the week in Paris magical. If you have never been out of the states do this tour first. You won't regret it.
Paris City Tour
What can I say it's Paris! Who could not fall in love with this city. Hotel was nice., Vanessa our tour host was just amazing !!! She was always there to great with a warm hello and big smile and willing to answer any questions that you may have had, no matter how silly it may have sounded. I would and will recommend this tour and Go Ahead tour to my family and friends! Keep up the good work...
Paris is Magical
Brian was a great tour guide. He is friendly, knowledgeable, and always smiling. He made our stay in Paris a happy one. The Mecure Montparnasse hotel is conveniently located to great restaurants and several Metro stops. The room was clean and decorated nicely. My room even had a view of the Eiffel Tower.
PARIS IN THE FALL
IT WAS AN AMAZING EXPERIENCE. I WAS WITH MY MOTHER AND SISTER AND WE DID THE SHOP AROUND PARIS. THE TOUR GUY KNEW HIS STUFF. WE WILL BE GOING BACK AND ON OTHER TOURS WITH YOU GUYS. YOU ROCK!!!!
Paris: The City Experience
I have been many places, but never have I enjoyed a vacation more than this one. Brian, our tour director was wonderful. Although I know it is impossible to please everyone, Brian did. He was amazing. The hotel was very nice, rooms spacious, and the staff very accommodating. The breakfasts provided were buffet style, with a very large selection. The restaurants selected by Go Ahead Tours were very good. The food selections are similiar to American restaurants, but the desserts are wonderful!!! We, (myself-56, my daughter-27, and my step-daughter-28) enjoyed a vacation of a lifetime because we chose Go Ahead Tours. The way the tour is conducted gives you a feeling of freedom, as if we were experincing Paris on our own, but had a friend who lived there to help us plan activities. I will use Go Ahead Tours in the future, and have no reserviations in recommending them to anyone who is thinking of traveling to an unfamiliar area.
Paris - Gorgeous!
Terrific! The hotel was very nice and the area in which it was located was wonderful. A real neighborhood and I loved that. The tour guide, Brian, was THE BEST! He was marvelous. He gave his time, his energy and, above all, his knowledge of the history of the city, the art of the city and was charming, to boot. He made the tour! Seemed to be everywhere at once and answering all the questions you could throw at him. The only negative: upon arrival at CDG, the guide waiting for us we had to find and it was only luck that made that happen. He then walked too fast to the bus so we lost him a few times and he had to come back to get us. Also, the bus was to have been a Disney bus (sent in our packet) and was not. Not that I cared about that but there was a Disney bus parked near what was our bus and we headed for that. Again, only sheer luck prevented us from getting on. After flying 6+ hours, when you get to the airport, you want it to go smoothly and not have any problems especially at the airport where everything is in a foreign language and you're not at the top of your game.
A wonderful trip
This was a dream to come to Paris for a vacation. So i finally made it .. Go Ahead Tours was grreat in all they did... the hotel was great clean and good breakfast each day.. The people there were so freindly to us.. right down to the cleaning ladies to the top.. all were really nice..any help we needed they were there... Brain our tour host was a super person.. giving us great tours of the city and answer all our questions. I really liked the bus tour first as it gave us an chance to see what is what and then decide if we wanted to go on our to see it again.. When we went to Normandy I cant enough about tour host there...Rosse... I dont think that is how u spell it but she was outstanding.. Normandy is one of the sight eveyone should see ... We had a lady get sick while there and the hostess got a dr and nurse for her and took GREAT CARE OF HER..thye went above there jobs... what great people they were... I will keep checking our your tours again for next year... thanks for all you did to make my trip outstanding.. I took over 600 pictures in the time we were there... a great memories to relive ...
Paris, oooh la la
My Wife and I were on the Paris City stay Presidents week February 2013. This was our 2nd tour with Goaheadtours (our first being Rome). The tour really starts with the excellent patient support of the staff as you make your plans and figure out your options - thank you Alexandra!. There is a good choice of flight options and the ability to upgrade your seats about 30 days before the flight. Upon landing you are met by a chaperone, Bernard, and brought to a rally point where you first meet your other travelers and await for your transport to the hotel. Our hotel was the excellent Mercure Montparnasse at 20 Rue de la Gate.The rooms were ready for everyone upon arrival. They have a mostly English speaking staff with some Spanish too! We had a very large room with a full bathroom. Breakfast was your standard faire but with fresh pastries and cheeses every morning at 0630 hours. This a business class hotel and it really showed with the professional and courtesy of the staff. Most importantly for me was that the WiFi worked everywhere! The hotel is located near 3 Metro stops, and the Metro is very easy to navigate - NYC and Boston could learn a few things from them. There is plenty of shopping and cafes and we were within walking distance of Tour Montparnasse Tower which is a great way to start your trip with the phenomenal views of Paris. The first night is the group dinner and the choice was excellent. We signed up for all the excursions. Our Tour Director was Brian - gentleman and scholar. He made himself available at all hours and went out of his way to meet and talk to everyone individually. When our Notre Dame excursion was cancelled due to lack of participants, he took it upon himself to take us there! I cannot say enough good things about him. The tour overall was well paced with plenty of free time to explore on your own. Dont be worried about your lack of French, Parisians were wonderful to us and helped us learn some French (politeness goes a long way). Highly recommend this tour and am planning to take another.
Paris in Winter was Magical
I just came back from my Paris City Stay and I loved every minute of it. It was a perfect balance of group time and free time. I thought everything was well organized from the transportation to and from the hotel and everything in between. The hotel was in a nice location close to lots of restaurants and metro stations. What made this tour really great however, was our tour director, Patrick Long. He did such a great job of explaining to us how to use the metro, provided us with detailed instructions on how to get to all the major sites, gave us great restaurant recommendations around the hotel, and his walking tours showed us quite a bit of Paris. He was very knowledgeable, helpful and fun to be around. You can tell that he enjoyed what he did. I’m already planning my next trip with Go Ahead Tours and my return to Paris next winter!
