Compare A Week In… The French Riviera, Provence and Paris 2021 by Tauck vs Country Roads of France - Classic Group by Insight Vacations
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| Trip |
4 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 17 days |
| Price From | $ 4,790 | $ 6,038 |
| Price Per Day | $ 599 | $ 355 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Small group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | No | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Experience what makes southern France unforgettable: an adventure walk on the Pont du Gard, a chef's dinner with a wine pairing in Avignon, and exploring chic Nice, Monte-Carlo, Provence, and Paris. |
Consider this your ‘Tour de France’ — a 16-day guided tour that embraces the best of the country, from fortified towns and fine wines. Drive along the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco, stopping to step inside its cathedral, where Princess Grace has been laid to rest. In Avignon, play pétanque, a bocce-like sport, then celebrate your new skills with a fine French aperitif. Travel to Carcassonne, a fortified city complete with ramparts and a medieval keep. Drive through the Valley of the Dordogne, then feast on a farm-to-table dinner paired with regional wine in Sarlat-La-Caneda. In Paris, embrace the City of Light’s most beloved sites: marvel at the Eiffel Tower, gaze at Louvre's glorious facades, and be driven down the posh Champs Elysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. |
Day 1 Arrive Nice
Tour begins: 3:30 PM, Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée. A transfer is included from Nice Côte d'Azur Airport to Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée. Join us this afternoon for a walking tour of Old Town Nice. Later, all gather for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner this evening at your five-star luxury hotel, occupying a former Art Deco casino located on Nice’s legendary Promenade des Anglais.
MEALS : D
LODGING : Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
PORTOFCALL : Nice, France
Day 2 A Wealth of Color in Nice & Monaco
A marvelous day in southern France begins with a panoramic tour of seaside Nice, whose "Old Town" recalls the days when aristocrats and royals spent their winters here; see the Port and the Promenade des Anglais, Place Garibaldi and the Cimiez District, a leafy, upscale neighborhood in the north of the city known for its historic, elegant apartment buildings, expansive gardens and Roman ruins. Here, you'll enjoy a visit to Musée Marc Chagall, a national museum spotlighting religious-inspired works by the Russian-born painter who made France his home. Next, head for Monaco to get a taste of life in glamorous Monte-Carlo, including lunch on the terrace of the elegant Fairmont Monte Carlo. Then spend some free time in Monaco-Ville, the oldest part of the city (also known as Le Rocher, or “The Rock”), where you can visit either the Prince's Palace, home of Monaco's ruling Grimaldi family since the 13th century, or the Cathedral of Our Lady Immaculate (Monaco Cathedral), completed early in the 20th century. Return to your hotel in Nice for an evening spent as you please.
MEALS : B, L
LODGING : Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Méditerranée
PORTOFCALL : Nice, France
Day 3 Where Impressionists Dreamed
From Nice, begin the day with a visit to the picturesque walled town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence, a Provençal hilltop town that was built in the 13th century, for an orientation tour and a walking tour led by your Tauck Director; you'll be taken with its medieval look and easily understand why it became an artists' enclave. After some free time to explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence on your own, continue on for an afternoon spent among the fountains, squares and medieval center of lovely Aix-en-Provence; imagine great artists like Paul Cézanne and others at work amidst the spectrum of colors found in "Aix" as you explore and enjoy lunch as you please in town, and join your local guide for a walking tour. Arrive late afternoon in St-Rémy-de-Provence to spend the next two nights at charming Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa, where you'll enjoy dinner this evening.
MEALS : B, D
LODGING : Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa
PORTOFCALL : Aix-en-Provence, France
Day 4 Van Gogh's Places & a Palace for Popes
No journey in Provence is complete without exploring the landscapes that inspired Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, where olive groves, cypress trees, and flowers the colors of the rainbow greet you. You'll do just that when you join your Tauck Director for a morning market visit and a walking tour of St-Rémy-de-Provence, where van Gogh spent a year of his life at a monastery that served as an asylum – a period of creativity that produced 150 of his most beloved paintings, including Starry Night, Wheat Field with Cypresses and Irises. After a free afternoon for lunch as you please and time spent as you wish in St-Rémy, head to Avignon, which has reigned as one of Europe's most beautiful medieval cities since the 14th century, when it was briefly the capital of Christendom and the home of the Roman Catholic popes. Following an orientation tour of this well-preserved riverside city, a visit inside the four-towered, fortress-like Palais des Papes with a local guide reveals the treasures and lifestyles of the pontiffs who reigned here for almost 70 years. Join us this evening for a memorable private chef's dinner in Avignon including a wine tasting and cooking demonstration, before returning to your hotel in St-Rémy.
MEALS : B, D
LODGING : Le Vallon de Valrugues & Spa
PORTOFCALL : St-Rémy-de-Provence, France
Day 5 An eternal Aqueduct & The TGV to Paris
Depart St-Rémy this morning and travel to the Pont du Gard – a three-level, 164-ft.-high “bridge” built by the Romans to carry fresh water over the River Gardon nearly 2,000 years ago – for an adventurous guided walk over the famous aqueduct and a visit to its museum. After a boxed lunch, board the high-speed TGV train in Avignon for a rapid rail journey in first class to inimitable Paris and a three-night stay at the newly renovated Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra; enjoy dinner at a local Parisian restaurant tonight.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opera
PORTOFCALL : Paris, France
Day 6 The Joie de Vivre of Paris
A guided orientation tour today gives you a great overview of Paris and includes the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Élysées, Place de la Concorde, the Eiffel Tower and more. Then, combine two Parisian pleasures as you feast on a sumptuous lunch from the kitchen of Chef Alain Ducasse while gliding along the River Seine aboard Ducasse sur Seine, a floating restaurant created by the famous chef. As the soul of Parisian cuisine comes to life on your plate, the city’s landmarks float by, each one a unique confection. Explore more of the amazing French capital as you wish for the rest of the day and evening.
MEALS : B, L
LODGING : Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opera
PORTOFCALL : Paris, France
Day 7 Musée du Louvre & Paris Shimmering
Join our local guide this morning for a visit inside the legendary Musée du Louvre, where you'll view some of the world’s most famous art masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Spend the afternoon at leisure, then join us for our farewell dinner tonight at a venue affording memorable views of this remarkable city – and bid adieu to Paris in true Tauck style!
MEALS : B, D
LODGING : Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opera
PORTOFCALL : Paris, France
Day 8 Journey home
Tour ends: Paris. Fly home anytime. Your transfer is included from Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra to Charles de Gaulle International Airport, Orly Airport or a Paris train station. You should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in.
MEALS : B
PORTOFCALL : Paris, France
Day 1: Welcome to Paris
On arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, transfers leave for the hotel at 08:30, 11:00 and 14:00. After checking in, the capital’s grand boulevards and world-famous landmarks are yours to explore. At 17:30, meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before joining a Welcome Dinner at Brasserie Bofinger, a local restaurant with cuisine inspired by country recipes.
Pullman Paris Centre Bercy.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Champagne Region and on to Dijon
Journey through the Champagne region. Stop to savour a taste of champagne, for which this region is world famous. Continue on to your hotel in Dijon.
Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche, Dijon.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 3: Free Time in Dijon Relaxed Start
Enjoy the Burgundy capital of Dijon. Its many handsome buildings recall the time when the Dukes of Burgundy were more powerful than the Kings of France. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune? In the evening, don't miss the chance of an optional Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.
Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche, Dijon.
Breakfast
Day 4: Chamonix
Travel towards the Mâconnais and Beaujolais before turning east into the Alps. A scenic symphony awaits you as you ascend into the high Alps and climb towards Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. Your destination is the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. In the evening you may choose to try a local pierrade at a local trendy eatery in a traditional chalet. This Optional Experience provides the chance to try a typical regional meal, cooked on a table barbecue using on a hot stone.
Hotel Mercure Chamonix.
Breakfast
Day 5: Lakeside Annecy and Grenoble Relaxed Start
In the morning, embark on a beautiful journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, dramatically situated between lake and mountains, it's a medieval spectacle and a summer getaway for the French and the Swiss locals. Enjoy free time for lunch in Little Venice, aptly named for the network of canals criss-crossing through the Old Town. Explore the city’s many lovely bridges at your leisure. Continue on to your hotel in Grenoble. This evening, savour a delicious raclette dinner at a local restaurant.
Park Hôtel Grenoble-MGallery.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 6: The French Riviera to reach Nice
Glorious mountain scenery will be yours to enjoy as you travel along a spectacular route, used by the Emperor Napoleon when he returned from his first exile to try to take the throne of France once more. Continue to the French Riviera to reach the elegant resort of Nice. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. In the evening, why not walk through old town Nice, ending in Cours Saleya where dinner is at your leisure at one of the many lovely bistros?
Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice.
Breakfast
Day 7: Monaco and the Côte d’Azur
Wake up ready to rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Côte d’Azur. Unlock the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery, where fragrance experts waft exclusive scents from stoppered bottles. Then enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco and walk with your Travel Director through the old town to see the Royal Palace and yacht-filled harbour. Your exploration continues as you visit inside Monaco Cathedral, housing the tomb of Princess Grace. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera at your own pace. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit to the medieval village of Eze and its hill-top Botanical Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline?
Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice.
Breakfast
Day 8: Picturesque Provence
Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. A walk through its winding streets reveals elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls and views of mountains and sea. Enjoy a lesson in the French sport of pétanque. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills as you take part in a game, completed by a glass of pastis, a French apéritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau and on to your hotel.
Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence.
Breakfast
Day 9: Avignon and Pont du Gard
Journey to Pont du Gard to see the magnificent ancient Roman aqueduct bridge. Continue on to Avignon to enjoy views of the remaining arches of the Pont d'Avignon and the fortified Papal Palace.Stop at the beautiful Domaine de la Vallongue for a tasting of its renowned wines and gastronomic olive oils. A MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, the estate uses traditional practices throughout, creating a sustainable business for future generations.
Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence.
Breakfast
Day 10: Carcassonne and to Albi
Head to beautiful Arles and learn about its historical connection to Vincent Van Gogh, who produced over 300 artworks during his time in the city. Cross the fertile Languedoc region, before journeying inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. Travellers are often amazed at their first sight of this medieval gem, known for its fortress - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a complete set of ramparts and a medieval keep. Travel to Albi, the birthplace of the Toulouse Lautrec. During your orientation with your Travel Director, marvel at iconic sites including the views of Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the famous awe-inspiring cathedral, before spending the remainder of the day at leisure.
Hôtel Saint Antoine, Albi.
Breakfast
Day 11: Free Time in Albi
Enjoy a full day at leisure, to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Albi.This evening savour a delicious dinner of carefully selected fresh ingredients, at a local restaurant.
Hôtel Saint Antoine, Albi.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 12: Cahors and Rocamadour Relaxed Start
Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentré. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the open air market - full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, it's an experience to delight all of the senses. Travel to Rocamadour and enjoy free time to explore this medieval town perched on a cliff side above the Alzou River and known as a resting place for pilgrims on their way to Spain. Continue to the beautiful town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, its medieval core blessed with fine historic golden limestone houses.
La Hoirie, Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 13: Exploring the Dordogne Valley
Start the day with a morning drive into the stunning Valley of the Dordogne to visit Lascaux II, where the world-famous prehistoric cave paintings have been faithfully reproduced.Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.
La Hoirie, Sarlat-la-Canéda.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 14: Paris, The City of Light
Travel onwards to immerse yourself in the beautiful city of Paris where on arrival you are free to explore this fascinating city as you wish. As evening descends, the City of Light lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour don't miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.
Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Breakfast
Day 15: Romantic Capital on the Seine
During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the imposing facades of the Louvre, the obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. Today enjoy an Insight Choice experience. Choose to shop in quaint boutiques like a true Parisian for fashion, perfume or cosmetics with your Local Expert. Alternatively, join a Local Expert, an avid foodie, as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. You are in for a memorable evening starting with a delicious Celebration Dinner at the historic restaurant La Coupole, serving delicious French cuisine and wine.
Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 16: Au Revoir Paris
Your departure transfer will arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 or 11:00.
Breakfast
