Best of France

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Bonjour Paris

   All the flavours 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 travellers and Travel Director for a dinner and an orientation drive through the city.

2. 2

   Journey through Burgundy to Lyon

   Travel south to Burgundy and on to the medieval town of Beaune. On a visit to Hospices de Beaune admire the colourful 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 cosy bouchon for a tasty dinner with newfound friends?

3. 3

   Onwards to Avignon, Monaco and the French Riviera

   Today you'll 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 you'll view the cathedral where Prince Rainier and Grace Kelly were married, where you will enjoy a dinner in Monaco before continuing along the Riviera to your hotel.

4. 4

   The French Riviera Your Way

   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.

5. 5

   Admire Arles and Continue to Carcassonne

   Visit Arles, where honey-coloured facades, Roman ruins and Camargue culture reveal the character of southern France. Enjoy time at leisure to explore the city or choose an Optional Experience with a resident expert, uncovering more about Vincent van Gogh and local history. Then wind your way to the fortified city of Carcassonne, where a guided exploration reveals the Cité, its double ring of ramparts and 52 towers.

6. 6

   Pilgrimage to Lourdes and on to Biarritz

   Drive toward the Pyrenees this morning and arrive in Lourdes, the global centre of the Marian pilgrimage. You'll 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 you'll spend the night.

7. 7

   Venture to Bordeaux

   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, you will 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.

8. 8

   Discover Beautiful Saint-Émilion

   Lush green valleys and wine hills take centre 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 centre admiring its beautiful architecture.

9. 9

   Explore a Château in the Loire Valley

   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 Château de Beauvois, your hotel for the night — one of Trafalgar’s Stays with Stories.

10. 10

    Off to Mont-Saint-Michel and the Normandy Beaches

    Travel through the patchwork landscapes of Brittany, to the island settlement of Mont-Saint-Michel on the Normandy coast, where you will visit the island town and view the impressive Norman Benedictine Abbey. Follow the Liberty Highway to Saint-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.

11. 11

    Journey to Paris

    Set off for 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.

12. 12

    Discover the Delights of Paris

    Join your Local Specialist on a journey through the historic neighbourhoods 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 cafe au lait in quiet surrounds or consider an Optional Experience to the opulent Palace of Versailles. This evening, celebrate an epic adventure with your Travel Director and newfound friends at a dinner.

13. 13

    Farewell Paris

    For now it's time to bid a fond au revoir to the Best of France and your fellow travellers at the end of a magical and memorable holiday.

Accommodation

Book this tour

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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