Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Paris
Upon arrival in Paris, a private chauffeur will greet you with his luxurious Mercedes and transport you and your luggage to your hotel. After you have settled in, the chauffeur will be waiting for you in the hotel lobby, ready to embark on a 3-week tour of France.
The first destination on the itinerary is the Eiffel Tower, which is rightfully considered the world’s most visited tourist attraction. Your pre-booked tickets grant you access to all levels of the tower, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of Paris and the surrounding cities. The tower, made of 8,038 metallic pieces and 2,500 rivets, took over 2 years to construct and weighs 7,300 tons.
After admiring the tower, your guide will lead you to a traditional Parisian brasserie for lunch, where you can experience the city like a local, away from the crowds of tourists. In the afternoon, you will visit the Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées, and Ile de la Cité, where you can tour the renowned Sainte Chapelle.
Your chauffeur will return you to your hotel in the evening, where you can dine at a prestigious Michelin restaurant for dinner.
Day 2: Paris – Louvre & Musee de L’Orangerie
Your guided tour begins today with a visit to the Louvre Museum, renowned for housing some of the world’s most valuable works of art, including the famous Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
The Louvre is the largest and most visited museum globally, with galleries covering over 15 acres and boasting over 35,000 pieces of art. To ensure you get to see all the masterpieces on your must-see list, your guide will work with you to make the most of your time at the museum.
The Musée d’Orsay is a world-renowned museum located in Paris, France. It is dedicated to showcasing the best of French art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and decorative arts. The museum is housed in a beautiful former railway station and is considered one of the most important museums of its kind in the world.
A guided tour of the Musée d’Orsay is a must-do for art lovers and those interested in French history. Your expert guide will take you through the various galleries, highlighting the key works of art and providing context and insight into the artists and movements represented. You’ll have the opportunity to see works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and many others.
As you explore the museum, your guide will provide information about the different art movements and styles represented, such as Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, Art Nouveau, and Symbolism, among others. You’ll learn about the social and political context of the time and how it influenced the artists and their work.
In addition to the art, the Musée d’Orsay also offers a stunning view of Paris, with its high glass-domed ceiling and ornate architectural details. Your guided tour will give you a comprehensive understanding of the museum and its collections, allowing you to appreciate the works of art and the museum as a whole in a new light.
Day 3: Normandy D-Day Beaches
Today, embark on a private excursion to the D-Day landing sites, where the famous battle was fought. Pay tribute to the numerous American servicemen and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom at the American National Cemetery.
Next, visit Sainte Mere Eglise and witness where the first paratroopers arrived to liberate the town. A monument in the form of a hanging paratrooper is displayed in the local church to commemorate the historic event. In the afternoon, you’ll be taken on a tour of the Airborne Museum, which is dedicated to the 82nd American Airborne Division, before returning to Paris.
Day 4: Chantilly
Spend a picturesque day in Chantilly, renowned for its laces, castle, and creamy confections. Your private chauffeur will escort you to the charming Chateau of Chantilly, a fairytale-like structure surrounded by formal gardens and situated in its own moat. The chateau has a rich history, having undergone looting and repossession during the revolution before being restored to its former glory by Henri d’Orleans in the 1870s. This beautiful castle also served as the backdrop for several French dramas and a James Bond film, “A View to a Kill”.
Inside the chateau lies the Condé Museum, considered to be the second-most impressive art gallery in France after the Louvre. With over 1,000 paintings, 2,500 drawings, and 2,500 engravings on display, the museum promises to be a visual feast.
The chateau boasts an unparalleled collection of rare books in its stunning library, numbering over 30,000. One of the most precious medieval manuscripts in Europe, “The Very Rich Hours of the Duke of Berry,” can be viewed in a copy behind glass.
Your tour will also encompass the Gallery Psyche, featuring stained glass panels depicting the 2nd-century love story of Psyche, a more beautiful princess than Aphrodite and Cupid. Additionally, you will see the Great Apartments and the Prince’s bedroom, complete with 1720s panels.
You will marvel at the Grande Singerie, a one-of-a-kind room adorned with murals of monkeys in various scenes. After your tour, savor a meal at the restaurant in the Anglo-Chinese gardens, complete with thatched English cottages. Then, enjoy a private tour of the formal gardens of the chateau, which feature an abundance of water features, including lakes at the front and rear and large pond areas in an English garden style.
The final stop on your Chantilly tour is the Great Stables, a magnificent building that resembles a grand chateau. Built by Jean Aubery for the 7th Prince of Conde in 1719, it was completed in 1735 and now serves as a museum of the Horse, showcasing man’s relationship with horses throughout history.
After a full day of exploring, sit back and relax in your air-conditioned vehicle as your chauffeur drives you back to your hotel in Paris.
Day 5: Versailles Palace & Gardens
Today, take a break from the hustle and bustle of Paris and embark on a journey to the opulent Versailles Chateau. You will be accompanied by a private guide for a tour of the Chateau, its gardens, and a visit to the town center of Versailles.
The Chateau de Versailles was commissioned by Louis XIV as a display of his personal wealth and power and to showcase French architecture and grandeur.
The Galeries des Glaces, or Hall of Mirrors, is perhaps the most renowned room in the Château. It boasts over 350 mirrors that line the magnificent room, and every aspect of the Chateau was constructed using only French materials and the labor of workmen who labored day and night to create this architectural wonder.
After your tour of the Chateau, take a private garden tour to uncover the lush grounds surrounding Versailles. These gardens took over 40 years to complete and feature 50 elaborate fountains adorned with sculptures of gilded lead or metal depicting characters from Greco-Roman mythology.
Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring the renowned indoor and outdoor food markets located in the center of Versailles, where you can taste a variety of artisanal French products from across the country. From Jambon de Bayonne to truffle-infused Roquefort and handmade chocolate from the best Parisian chocolatiers, this market offers everything you could desire.
Day 6: Burgundy – Chablis
This morning, your driver will be waiting in the reception area, ready to embark on a 3-day tour of Burgundy. This region, located in east-central France, is renowned for producing some of the world’s best-known wines.
The wine-growing areas of Burgundy include Chablis, Côte de Beaune, Côte Chalonnaise, Côte des Nuits, and Mâconnais. This region has been producing wine since 854, when local monks first arrived.
Chablis, known for its lean and unoaked Chardonnay, is located farthest north in the region and has a unique geography compared to the rest of Burgundy. The soil in Chablis is called “Kimmeridgian” limestone, similar to that found in Champagne. Its white, chalky texture reflects the sun’s warmth and helps the grapes ripen.
Today, we will visit a Grand Cru winery, where you will have a tour of the vines with the vintner and then return to the winery for a private cellar tour, tastings, and a formal lunch.
In the afternoon, visit the charming town of Chablis, with its beautiful Medieval half-timbered houses and delightful wine shops and restaurants.
Day 7: Exploring Dijon
Your driver and guide will take you to the city of Dijon, the historic capital of Burgundy.
Dijon is renowned for its famous mustard, being the birthplace of Gustave Eiffel, and the creation of the cocktail Kir and Kir Royale. The city is also famous for its many original buildings over 300 years old and is home to a diverse range of architectural styles, from Medieval to Renaissance to Art Deco and Art Nouveau.
In the Middle Ages, the Dukes of Burgundy held significant power, and Dijon was almost an independent state within France. Today, the city center is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and our tour begins at the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, which now serves as a museum charting the history of Burgundy. The museum also houses a fine art collection considered to be one of the best in France outside of Paris, with works from the Middle Ages to the late 19th Century by artists such as Titian, De Latour, Delacroix, Monet, Manet, and Sisley.
Once you’ve completed the tour of the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, we will proceed to Rue de la Verrière, a picturesque cobbled street lined with charming half-timbered houses.
Enjoy lunch in one of the city center’s brasseries and savor the local flavors like coq au vin or Boeuf Bourguignon; each dish is made with the distinctive Dijon mustard.
In the afternoon, visit Notre Dame, a 13th-century Gothic church that boasts an unusual Western facade featuring three levels of arches decorated with more than 50 gargoyles (although some are not real). Don’t miss the impressive automated clock, which was imported from Belgium in the late 1780s and now displays four figures, unlike the original that featured just one.
End the day with pre-dinner drinks, known as “aperos,” and discover the history behind the creation of the popular cocktail, Kir, which originated in Dijon.
Day 8: Beaune
Tasting the wine of Burgundy is a must-do for any visitor to the region.
Today, you’ll travel to Meursault, a small wine-producing area that is known for its outstanding white and red wines. The whites are made from Chardonnay grapes, while the reds are made from Pinot Noir. Despite its small size, Meursault produces some of the world’s finest wine.
You’ll begin the day with a private tasting and tour of a chateau that gives its name to the wine. This is a rare opportunity, as there are fewer wine châteaux in Burgundy compared to Bordeaux. Your tour guide, the head sommelier, will educate you on the unique qualities that make this region of France home to such an array of exceptional wines.
You will taste wines that have been served at 3-star Michelin restaurants, and your sommelier can arrange for a shipment of bottles to bring the delicious flavors of Meursault back home with you.
Later, you’ll visit a local winery in the town of Beaune. Your tour will include six tastings of award-winning Burgundy wines.
Day 9: Lyon
Explore the history and rich cultural heritage of Lyon, France’s third-largest city, known for its significant presence throughout the ages, from Roman times to the present day. During World War II, the city served as the command center for the south of France and also served as a Gestapo headquarters. Nevertheless, Lyon was a stronghold for the Resistance movement, with many freedom fighters utilizing the city’s secret underground tunnels for mobility.
Spend the afternoon in the Vieux Ville and discover the grand cathedral that showcases a combination of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. The Cathedral of Saint Jean took nearly 300 years to complete and is renowned for its exquisite rose-shaped stained glass windows from the 12th Century. Enter through the massive oak doors and be awed by the remarkable 16th-century astronomical clock featuring intricate automatons of animals and people.
Take a private tour of this magnificent structure with your guide and then visit the adjacent archaeological gardens, which contain remnants of a 4th-century church that once stood on the site.
End the day with a stroll through the lively piazza and enjoy the bustling atmosphere of one of the bars while watching the world go by.
Day 10: Lyon Food & Wine Experience
Today, we will delve into the culinary scene in Lyon, known as one of the gastronomic cities of France. With over 4000 restaurants, including 20 Michelin-starred establishments, Lyon is a food lover’s paradise.
Our tour begins with a private visit to Les Halles des Lyon, a bustling covered market that features over 50 artisanal vendors. You’ll have the chance to experience why Lyon is considered a gastronomic hub, sampling delectable local treats paired with wine from the region.
In the afternoon, we’ll visit a renowned local winery and take a private tour of the estate with a specialist guide. You’ll learn about the region’s wines and what makes it an ideal place for winemaking, and have a private lesson in wine pairing, savoring vintage wine, and local cheeses and charcuterie.
To wrap up the day, you’ll enjoy dinner at one of the many Michelin-starred restaurants in Lyon and savor the best the city has to offer.
Day 11: Geneva Day Tour
Take a scenic drive in your luxurious car to the charming city of Geneva, located on the southern shore of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the majestic Jura Mountains and the Alps.
Geneva is the largest city in French-speaking Switzerland and has a rich history dating back to the 16th Century when it was a center for the Reformation led by John Calvin and was referred to as the “Protestant Rome.” After the Napoleonic wars, Geneva became part of Switzerland and has since flourished into a hub for global finance and international diplomacy, with the headquarters of the UN located there.
In addition to its political and financial significance, Geneva is also renowned for its precision watchmaking and fine chocolate, although some of my Belgian and French colleagues may dispute this claim.
Today’s tour will guide you through the charming old town, where you can leisurely explore the local artisanal chocolate shops and appreciate the stunning architecture. We will also make a stop at the Treille Promenade, offering panoramic views of the town below, including the world’s longest wooden bench, stretching over 410 feet. Our itinerary features the renowned Jet d’Eau, a well-known symbol of the city, which shoots 130 gallons of water up to 450 feet high, visible even from an altitude of 30,000 feet when flying over the city.
Later in the afternoon, we arranged a visit to an award-winning chocolatier, where you will participate in a chocolate workshop. You’ll learn how to temper chocolate and create a ganache, and also enjoy a chocolate tasting. In true Gallic fashion, we have also paired each type of chocolate with a complementary wine, showcasing the perfect wine and chocolate match.
The day will conclude with a scenic drive around the city, taking in notable sites such as the United Nations building and the powerful Broken Chair sculpture. This 40-foot-tall sculpture was erected to commemorate the Ottawa Treaty.
Day 12: Chamonix & Annecy Day Tour
Today, we embark on a journey to Chamonix in the heart of the Alps, the location of Mont Blanc, the tallest mountain in Europe outside of Russia. Chamonix is best known for its winter ski resort, as it was the host of the first Olympic Winter Games in 1924. Despite its winter sports reputation, Chamonix is a bustling and lively town even in the summer.
Our first stop is at the famous Aiguilles des Midi, one of the highest and steepest cable cars in the world, taking only 20 minutes to reach its summit at 3,842 meters. From the top, you will be treated to breathtaking views of the Alps and Mont Blanc. For the daring, there’s even a viewing platform in the form of a glass box suspended over the mountain face.
Afterward, we will enjoy lunch at one of the charming restaurants in the town square, where you can sample local specialties such as raclette or tartiflette paired with a glass of Savoi wine.
On our return to Lyon, we will make a pit stop in Annecy, considered one of the most beautiful towns in France, nestled on the shores of Lake Annecy and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Our guide will lead you through the old town, with its cobbled streets and brightly colored houses, lined with art galleries, artisanal craft shops, and local delicatessens.
Finally, we’ll return to Lyon for an elegant private dinner cruise on the Rhone, ending the day with a sophisticated and memorable experience.
Day 13: Provence – Menton
Menton, known as the “Pearl of France”, is located on the border of the Italian Riviera and Monaco, home to the wealthy and famous. This charming town serves as the starting point for our tour of Provence and the entrance to the French Riviera.
Menton has a rich history, as it was only officially made part of France in 1861 when Napoleon purchased it from the Grimaldi family. Throughout its history, Menton has been occupied by both Italy and Germany and was eventually liberated in 1944 by Canadian and American troops as part of the First Special Service Force.
One of the main attractions of Menton is its famous climate, with an impressive 316 days of sunshine each year, making it ideal for growing citrus fruits. Every February, the town celebrates the lemon festival, reminiscent of Mardi Gras with a citrus twist.
At the beginning of the day, we’ll visit the indoor market and the charming old town of Menton. The old town boasts a mixture of pastel-colored houses, grand villas, and refined Baroque buildings, with narrow cobbled streets and pavements leading to the Basilica Saint Michel Archange, an impressive 17th-century cathedral that underwent a Baroque renovation in the early 19th Century.
For lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the local cuisine in one of the harbor restaurants, including specialties such as pichade and tarte au citron de Menton.
Later, we’ll take a private tour of the Cocteau Museum, which houses over 1000 of Jean Cocteau’s works. Cocteau was named an honorary citizen of Menton and worked closely with the then-mayor to design the museum, which he continued to work on until his death in 1966.
To end the day, you’ll dine at one of the elegant fine dining establishments located by the seafront.
Day 14: Monaco
On our next stop, we will be visiting the luxurious principality of Monaco – the second smallest country in the world, with only the Vatican being smaller. Despite being commonly associated with Monte Carlo’s casinos and luxurious yachts, there is much more to discover in Monaco.
We’ll begin with a private tour of the Prince’s Castle, known as the Palais du Prince. This historic fortress, now a residence for the Prince and his family, offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Monaco below. During the tour, we’ll have a glimpse inside the opulent Throne room, private chapel, and the famous Blue room known for its gold and blue decor.
Our next stop will be the Princess Grace Rose Gardens, created by Prince Rainier III in memory of his wife, Princess Grace. The gardens are a beautiful tribute to the beloved Princess and offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city.
Our tour continues to the breathtaking Grace Kelly Rose Garden, which boasts over 300 types of roses and a total of 8,000 rose bushes. This English-style garden is a tribute to the late Princess Grace Kelly.
Later on, we visit the renowned Musée Océanographique, situated high above sea level. The building’s foundation took 11 years to construct, and since its opening in 1910, it has become one of the world’s oldest aquariums. With over 6,000 marine creatures and over 100 pools, it features a Mediterranean aquarium, a Tropical aquarium, and a shark lagoon.
Finally, we conclude our day in Monte Carlo, home to the iconic and world-renowned casino. Marvel at the giant crystal chandeliers, original artwork adorning the walls, and the grand Onyx columns as you enter the gaming rooms. Said to have served as inspiration for the James Bond film “Casino Royale,” try your luck at one of the tables or simply observe the people around you in this legendary casino.
Day 15: Nice
Nice, named after the Greek goddess Nike, was once an Italian city before it became part of France in 1860. The city still reflects its Italian heritage, and many residents are bilingual in French and Italian.
Another unique cultural influence can be seen in the daily tradition of firing a cannon at noon. This tradition was started by an Englishman, Sir Thomas, who wanted to ensure that his wife could serve lunch at noon. After Sir Thomas returned to the UK, the local residents continued to rely on the cannon shot to mark noon, and it continues to this day.
Our journey begins in the charming old town, where you’ll discover a labyrinth of quaint streets that lead to picturesque squares with cozy cafes and bistros.
Your private tour will also include a visit to the grand Opera House and the Town Hall, and Rosetti Square, featuring the beautifully modest Nice Cathedral. Despite its unassuming exterior, the interior of the cathedral boasts rich Baroque designs, intricately decorated chapels, sculptures, and paintings with a strong Italian influence.
Take a break for lunch at the bustling flower and produce market located in the heart of the old town.
In the afternoon, we’ll embark on a private tour of the Musée Marc Chagall. Chagall not only contributed to the art displayed in the museum but also played a role in its design, as he wanted his works to be displayed in specific locations. The exhibition features 17 pieces from Chagall, including the famous Resistance, Resurrection, and Liberation triptych, which he painted before, during, and after World War II.
Finally, finish the day with a leisurely stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, a path named after the affluent English tourists who visited Nice, including Queen Victoria and Winston Churchill.
Day 16: Best of Cannes
As the Riviera’s equivalent of Beverly Hills, Cannes is a refined coastal town located to the west of Nice. The city’s popularity as a luxurious resort dates back to the early 19th Century, when Lord Brougham, a prominent British statesman and Lord Chancellor, discovered Cannes and helped establish it as a destination for the upper echelon of British society. In honor of his contributions, there is a bronze statue of him in the city center.
Our tour of Cannes begins with a visit to Le Suquet, the old Roman hillside settlement with its charming pastel-hued houses, winding cobbled streets, and hillside cafes offering breathtaking views of the Bay of Cannes. We then move on to Marche Forville, an indoor market teeming with local farmers and artisan food producers. Here, you can sample some of the region’s finest organic olives, freshly caught oysters, and elegant handmade chocolates or macaroons.
After lunch at a traditional brasserie, we take a private tour of the Grand Auditorium, and your driver-guide will snap a photo of you on the famous red-carpeted steps. Afterward, we stroll along La Promenade de Croisette, the iconic beachside road lined with luxury brands, 5-star and 6-star hotels, and Michelin-starred restaurants. This magnificent seafront promenade extends for an impressive 1.6 km.
To complete the day, we will dine at one of Cannes’ many fine dining establishments, rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous.
Day 17: Grasse
Explore the Perfume Capital of the World, Grasse, on this tour of the beautiful town above Cannes. Grasse is known as the hub of France’s perfume production, with over two-thirds of the country’s fragrances made here.
Begin with a visit to a perfume workshop, where a “nez” (perfumer) will guide you in creating your very own scent and educate you on the basics of perfume-making. Afterward, immerse yourself in the history of the fragrance industry at the Musée International de la Parfumerie, which showcases a vast collection of antique crystal perfume bottles.
Take a trip to the 12th-century cathedral in the old town, where the simplicity of the exterior belies the grandeur inside, featuring three paintings from the famous Belgian artist Rubens. Enjoy lunch at one of the charming bistros that dot the town squares, surrounded by a variety of bars and restaurants.
In the afternoon, visit an award-winning olive oil farm and learn about the optimal climate in Grasse for producing quality olive oil. Your tour will culminate with a private tour of the estate and tastings of local bread and charcuterie.
Day 18: Toulon
The tour begins with a thrilling ride on a cable car to the summit of Mont Faron, a 584 M high mountain overlooking Toulon and its port. From the top, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and even spot Corsica on a clear day. Afterward, you will embark on a private tour of the Musée du Debarquement, a museum dedicated to the commemoration of the Allied invasion of Provence in 1944.
Later, you will have the opportunity to explore the charming port of Toulon, with its mix of French naval base, fishermen, and sailors. Enjoy lunch in one of the many fashionable restaurants along the harbor.
In the evening, you will visit an award-winning local wine estate for a private tour, where you will learn about the production process of rosé wine, a specialty of Provence, considered by many wine enthusiasts to be the best in the world. You will have the chance to taste various vintage wines.
Day 19: Marseilles
Marseille is steeped in history, with its status as a vital strategic port dating back to 600 BC when the Greeks established it. The French National Anthem, “Le Marseillaise,” also honors the city.
We begin our tour at the Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, which was constructed by King Francois I to defend the city. This impressive structure stands 490 feet above sea level and features a statue of the Virgin Mary, believed to guard the city and its inhabitants. For those who prefer, there’s a train from the Vieux Port that takes you directly to this breathtaking Byzantine monument, where you can enjoy a stunning view of the city and the Mediterranean.
Our day in Marseilles continues with a visit to the Old Port, the vibrant hub of the city where locals and tourists gather. Here, you can indulge in the city’s specialty, Bouillabaisse, a delectable seafood soup served fresh from the port’s many fish restaurants.
The afternoon brings us to the Mucem (Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean), which opened in 2013 to celebrate Marseille’s being designated a European City of Culture. The museum boasts a contemporary design that stands in stark contrast to the city’s historic buildings. With close to a million exhibits on display, the MuCEM showcases the development of civilizations in the Mediterranean and North Africa over the centuries.
As the day comes to a close, we head back to the Basilica Notre-Dame de la Garde, a grand Byzantine monument towering 490 feet above sea level, built by King Francois I to protect the city. If you’re less mobile, there’s a train from the Old Port that takes you directly to the top, where you can admire the breathtaking view of the city and the Mediterranean.
Day 20: Aix-en-Provence
Our first stop today is the world-renowned town of Aix-en-Provence, which boasts stunning architecture, lush tree-lined streets, and an array of fashionable boutiques and art galleries. Known as the “City of a Thousand Fountains,” the fountains in Aix were symbols of wealth and prosperity.
We will visit the Musée Granet, a top-notch museum located outside of Paris. It houses over 12,000 works of art, including neoclassical sculptures, pop art exhibits, and pieces by the famous local artist Paul Cezanne. For those who are fans of Cezanne, we have the opportunity to tour his studio, which has remained largely unchanged over the years, providing an intimate glimpse into his creative process.
Afterward, we venture to the charming boulevard, Cours Mirabeau, which is lined with towering Plane trees. This is the perfect place for a leisurely lunch in one of the many delightful cafes and restaurants. After fueling up, take a leisurely walk around the vibrant local market.
To end our day in Aix-en-Provence, we will embark on a private tour of the grand Cathedrale Saint Sauveur d’Aix-en-Provence. Construction of this imposing structure began in the 12th Century and was only completed in the 19th Century. The cathedral features a blend of Baroque, Gothic, and Romanesque architectural styles and is marked by imposing walnut doors at the main entrance. The doors are flanked by beautifully carved apostles, and inside, you’ll find numerous sculptures and paintings that have been accumulated over the centuries.
Day 21: Your France Itinerary draws to a close
Your driver will be ready and waiting for you in the hotel lobby, ready to transport you and all your belongings to your next destination. Whether it’s to the airport to bring back memories of France or to another location in France to continue your adventure, your chauffeur is prepared to take you to your next stop.
