On this journey through northern France, you’ll experience some of the world’s most historical sights—from the 12th century to the 21st. Begin your trip with a stay in romantic Paris, the City of Light, then visit the best parts of the French countryside where authentic sweets and treats await.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 - Paris
Board your overnight flight to France.
Day 2 - Paris
A Go Ahead representative meets you at the airport and accompanies you to your hotel. The rest of the day is free before this evening’s included dinner. (B in flight, D)
Day 3 - Paris
This morning’s guided sightseeing tour of the City of Light features views of the Eiffel Tower, the enormous Arc de Triomphe (the world’s largest triumphal arch), and Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, whose construction dates back to 1163. This afternoon, join an optional excursion to Versailles, where you can stroll through the Hall of Mirrors, the queen’s chambers and the beautifully landscaped gardens of this legendary palace. (B)
$99
Versailles
Louis XIV, known as the “Sun King,” set new standards among European royalty for the decadence of his reign. On this half-day 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.
Day 4 - Rouen
Travel northwest into the French countryside, stopping for a visit at Giverny (seasonal) for a tour of the house and gardens of Claude Monet. Reach Upper Normandy and stop in the city of Rouen, whose cathedral was a favorite subject for Monet’s paintings. On this afternoon’s guided tour, see the Butter Tower—named because its construction was financed by Catholics paying penance for refusing to give up butter. You’ll also see the Renaissance clock near the city center, as well as the square where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. (B, D)
Day 5 - Rouen
Spend a free day in Rouen today, or join an optional excursion to the Norman countryside and the beautiful harborside town of Honfleur. The excursion includes visits to Pont de Normandie and Falaise d’Etretat, as well as to a Calvados brandy distillery. (B)
$50
Honfleur and the Norman Heritage
Travel further into Normandy where you'll explore Honfleur, a picturesque seaport full of lively cafes, on a guided tour.
Day 6 - Caen
Reach Lower Normandy, where your first stop is the village of Lisieux. You’ll visit the Basilica of St. Theresa, one of the world’s largest 20th-century churches. Tour the evocative Caen Memorial, a museum devoted to the 1944 Battle of Normandy, where troops battled for France’s liberation. Your tour director will lead an orientation tour of Caen. See the city’s two abbeys as well as the fortress that served as William the Conqueror’s Normandy headquarters. (B, D)
Day 7 - Caen
Linger in Caen today or pay tribute to the WWII troops during today's optional excursion to the D-Day beaches. (B)
$65
D-Day Beaches of Normandy
The Allied troops landed in Normandy in the famous battle in 1944. Travel to Pointe du Hoc, the American Cemetery in Colleville and then Arromanches.
Day 8 - St. Malo
The journey to St. Malo begins with a stop in Bayeux, home of the famous Bayeux Tapestry, and continues on to Villedieu-les-Poêles—culinary enthusiasts will want to shop for copperware here! Arrive in St. Malo. (B, D)
Day 9 - St. Malo
Join a local guide for sightseeing in coastal St. Malo. Amid the town’s rocky enclaves, pirates once took refuge. In the afternoon, join an optional excursion to Mont-St.-Michel, a monastery perched on a tiny islet. (B)
$69
Mont-St.-Michel
Tour the breathtaking islet monastery of Mont St.-Michel, one of the wonders of the Western world. This 8th-century abbey is perched on a granite rock, surrounded by water at high tide.
Day 10 - Tours
Drive into the lush Loire Valley, called the Playground of the Kings in Renaissance times. You’ll visit the enchanting château of Blois, with its four distinct architectural styles, before heading to your hotel in Tours. (B, D)
Day 11 - Tours
Enjoy a free day in Tours or opt to join an excursion to three of the region’s most famous châteaux: Villandry, Amboise and romantic Chenonceau. (B)
$105
Loire Chateaux
Journey into the lush Loire Valley, called Valley of the Kings in Renaissance times because it was where the French monarchy chose to build their enormous chateaux.
Day 12 - Tours
Head to Paris for your flight home or continue on our tour extension. (B)
Extend Your Stay
Add 2 nights,
$299 (Single room: add $125)
Ah, Paris, the city of life, love and light. From the Eiffel Tower to the Mona Lisa, from the bustling Champs Elysées to the winding streets of Montmartre, you'll find magic, romance and history as you sip a café au lait, stroll manicured parks and watch the sun set over the Seine.