To France, With Love: A Romantic Journey from Paris to the Riviera
13 Days
This romantic itinerary takes guests on a journey through France, a country renowned for its timeless allure and enchanting experiences. The trip begins in the heart of Paris, where the “City of Love” awaits. As the sun sets, guests will immerse themselves in Parisian romance with a private evening tour of Paris, followed the next day by a leisurely exploration of iconic landmarks with a 24-hour hop-on, hop-off Tootbus sightseeing pass. The next day, revel in the opulence of the Palace of Versailles with priority access, offering an exclusive glimpse into the grandeur of French royalty. In the evening, experience a quintessentially romantic dinner at the Eiffel Tower, followed by a serene Seine River cruise that reveals Paris’s illuminated skyline, creating a magical backdrop for an evening to remember.
Journey onward to Lyon, where comfort meets sophistication on a first class train ride. Upon arrival, a private executive transfer will whisk guests to the city’s culinary heart. Delight in a secret food walking tour that showcases Lyon’s renowned gastronomic heritage, making every bite a celebration of flavor and tradition.
In Avignon, an exclusive afternoon tour guided by a knowledgeable expert unveils the city’s rich history. Indulge in a wine tour through the prestigious vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, savoring the exquisite flavors that define this celebrated region.
The adventure continues with a scenic rail ride to Nice, where the azure Mediterranean waters beckon. Explore the glamorous destinations of Monaco and Monte-Carlo, known for their elegance and luxury. Wander through the historic streets of Monaco, visit the opulent Monte-Carlo Casino, and soak in the breathtaking views from the famous Rock. Discover the medieval charm of Eze, where boutiques are carved into the rock and a visit to a local perfumery adds a sensory delight. Enjoy panoramic views of the French Riviera and relish the final days in the South of France.
Highlights
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Private Tour: Paris by Night with Champagne
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Paris Discovery Hop On/Hop Off Sightseeing Tour
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Shared Tour: Versailles Guided Tour with Priority Access by Motorcoach
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Eiffel Tower Dinner and Seine Cruise
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Private Lyon Secret Food Guided Walking Tour
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Private Avignon Afternoon Half Day Tour with English Speaking Driver-Guide
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Small Group: Afternoon Wine Tour to Châteauneuf-du-Pape
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Small Group: Nice's Italian Riviera Tour
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Small Group: Riviera Panorama Tour (Monaco, Monte-Carlo, and Eze)
Itinerary Details
International Arrival
Private Transfer from Airport to Hotel
4 Nights
Paris
Included activities
Day 1: Arrival in Paris, City of Love
Travelers, welcome to the City of Light (and Love)! Guests will greet their private transfer representative after disembarking their flights for a relaxing journey to their hotel. Guests should make themselves comfortable and refreshed for their evening tour of Paris at night where they'll experience first hand why this city is popularly known as the City of Lights.
Private Tour: Paris by Night with Champagne
Explore Paris under a moonlit sky as guests are whisked through the city in a charming 2CV, sipping champagne along the way! From the shimmering Champs-Élysées to the majestic Louvre, and the bohemian spirit of Saint Germain, every turn reveals a new wonder. A stop at Notre Dame adds a touch of timeless romance before the adventure culminates at the heights of Montmartre, where the breathtaking views capture the very essence of Paris' magic.
Day 2: Explore Paris's Iconic Locations
After a romantic night seeing Paris by night, guests can enjoy seeing all of Paris from the ease of a hop on/hop off sightseeing bus by day! Guests will be able to explore Paris's iconic sights at their leisure for this full day exploration of everything Parisian.
Paris Discovery Hop On/Hop Off Sightseeing Tour
Guests can take in Paris’s iconic sights aboard the comfortable Tootbus, enjoying the open-air top deck or cozy indoor seating. This panoramic hop-on, hop-off tour passes by the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and more. Entertaining audio commentary shares fascinating local history along the way. With 10 stops near the city’s top attractions, guests can hop off to explore at their own pace and hop back on when ready to continue the adventure. No reservations needed—simply present the voucher at any start point for easy access to this unforgettable Parisian experience.
Day 3: A Day in the Life of a French Royal
Get ready for a full morning and afternoon exploring the iconic, romantic, and luxurious Palace of Versailles. No trip to France is complete without a tour of its luscious grounds and royal history. In the evening, guests can continue the royal vibe by grabbing a fancy dinner at one of Paris's many delicious dining establishments that suit their palate and budget!
Shared Tour: Versailles Guided Tour with Priority Access by Motorcoach
The Palace of Versailles, a symbol of absolute monarchy and French opulence, is a masterpiece of 17th-century architecture and design. Originally a hunting lodge, Louis XIV transformed it into the seat of power, where he centralized his reign. Guests will marvel at the King's and Queen's State Apartments, lavishly decorated with gilded moldings, exquisite tapestries, and grand chandeliers. The Hall of Mirrors, perhaps the most famous room in the palace, dazzles with its 357 mirrors reflecting the sunlight from the garden's fountains through 17 arched windows. The expansive gardens, designed by André Le Nôtre, are a work of art in themselves, featuring meticulously manicured lawns, intricate fountains, and ornamental lakes. Sculptures, many crafted by leading artists of the time, are placed throughout the garden, including the iconic Apollo Fountain. With pathways leading to groves, secret garden rooms, and fountains that tell mythological stories, guests can lose themselves in the enchanting ambiance of Versailles, imagining the grandeur of royal life centuries ago.
Day 4: Final Day in Paris with a Show-Stopping Evening
Guests should enjoy their final day in Paris with a leisurely morning stroll in one of their favorite neighborhoods with a croissant or café in hand. Now is the time to explore any remaining sights, or enjoy a shopping excursion in this fashion-forward city. The day is theirs to explore, but be sure to have some energy left over for a lavish dinner at Madame Brasserie, followed by a Seine River cruise! Dress to impress and enjoy a final night in Paris in style.
Eiffel Tower Dinner and Seine Cruise
Guests will enjoy exclusive priority access to the Eiffel Tower, where an elegant dining experience awaits at the renowned Madame Brasserie. With breathtaking views of Paris, guests will savor exquisite French cuisine paired with fine drinks in this iconic setting. Afterward, the evening continues with a serene one-hour cruise along the Seine River. As guests glide past the city's illuminated landmarks, recorded commentary will provide fascinating insights into Paris's rich history and culture, making this an unforgettable night of romance and discovery.
Private Transfer from Hotel to Paris Gare de Lyon Train Station
First Class to Lyon, France
Private Transfer from Lyon-Part-Dieu Train Station to Hotel
2 Nights
Lyon
Included activities
Day 5: Arrival in Lyon
Enjoy first class aboard a TGV train, soaking in the French countryside on this quick 2-hour journey from Paris to Lyon. Once travelers arrive at Lyon's main rain station, they'll be escorted to their hotel. Settle in, unwind, and explore this French city, renown for its culinary prowess and history. Explore the city at leisure, and be sure to visit a popular restaurant for a delicious dinner.
Day 6: Delight in the Culinary Expertise of Lyon
Guests may have experienced a delightful lunch or dinner the previous day, but get ready to truly immerse oneself in the culinary expertise of this French city with a private secret food tour! After this tour, take time to relax and soak in the rest of what this city has to offer before departure tomorrow to Avignon.
Private Lyon Secret Food Guided Walking Tour
From savory to sweet, guests will savor Lyon’s delectable dishes on this culinary journey. The excursion includes exploration of the charming Vieux Lyon area, the scenic beauty of the Saône River, and various monuments in the Presqu'île district, all while indulging in the famous cuisine and wine of Lyon. A special highlight of this journey is a secret dish, offering an exclusive taste of Lyon’s culinary delights.
Private Transfer from Hotel to Avignon, France
3 Nights
Avignon
Included activities
Day 7: Countryside Drive and Arrival in Avignon
Guests will depart their hotel this morning via a private sedan journey from Lyon to Avignon. This drive will be a relaxing and beautiful journey through France's countryside, where travelers can soak in the sights (and vineyards). Sit back, relax, and enjoy a stress free journey to Avignon. Upon arrival, check-in to the hotel and enjoy a leisurely afternoon to explore the city.
Day 8: Explore Avignon
Today guests will further explore the city of Avignon with a private English speaking driver and guide. Get ready for a day of touring Avignon, a city steeped in history and charm, known for its remarkable medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene.
Private Avignon Afternoon Half Day Tour with English Speaking Driver-Guide
Guests can explore Avignon at their own pace with an English-speaking driver-guide. Whether planning a personal itinerary in advance or allowing the city's charm to inspire spontaneity, there are several must-see recommendations to consider. Highlights include the Palais des Papes, a grand medieval fortress and former papal residence; the Pont Saint-Bénézet, the iconic bridge with its scenic views of the Rhône River; and the Historic Old Town, with its narrow streets and vibrant markets. Additionally, the Rocher des Doms park offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. With these recommendations, guests will have a rich and memorable experience in Avignon.
Day 9: Wine and Dine in Avignon
Enjoy a leisurely morning before embarking on a small group tour of one of France's most famous wine regions: Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This tour is sure to be a highlight for guests' trip to France. Upon return to Avignon, enjoy a final dinner in the city before departure to Nice tomorrow.
Small Group Tour: Afternoon Wine Tour to Châteauneuf-du-Pape
Following a panoramic drive through the historic vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, guests will enjoy wine tastings at two distinct cellars, exploring the region’s renowned grape varieties and unique terroir. Châteauneuf-du-Pape, known for its rich winemaking history dating back to the 14th century, became famous when the popes resided in the area and developed the local wine industry. An additional stop will be made at the ruins of the Pope’s summer palace, where guests can take in breathtaking views of the Rhône River Valley and the surrounding mountains, immersing themselves in the region’s storied past and scenic beauty.
Private Transfer from Hotel to Avignon TGV Station
First Class Train Ride to Nice-Ville Station
Private Transfer from Nice-Ville Station to Hotel
Private Transfer from Hotel to Nice Airport
International Departure
3 Nights
Nice
Included activities
Day 10: Arrival in Nice
Guests will enjoy a first class train ride from Avignon to Nice with a private transfer upon arrival to their hotel. After checking in to their hotel, guests can immerse themselves in the city's charm with a variety of activities. A leisurely stroll along the Promenade des Anglais offers stunning views of the Mediterranean and a taste of the lively seafront atmosphere. Exploring the Old Town (Vieux Nice) reveals charming narrow streets filled with boutiques, cafes, and vibrant markets, including the Cours Saleya market where fresh produce and local delicacies abound. For breathtaking panoramic views of Nice and the coast, guests can climb or take the elevator up to Castle Hill (Colline du Château), which is particularly stunning at sunset. The bustling Nice Port area, with its colorful buildings and waterfront restaurants, provides a picturesque and relaxing environment to enjoy. To complete the evening, guests can savor French cuisine at one of Nice’s many bistros or brasseries, sampling local specialties such as Socca (chickpea pancake) or fresh seafood.
Day 11: Explore Nice's Italian Riviera
Guests will enjoy a full day of exploring Nice's Italian Riviera! This region, renowned for its picturesque coastal landscapes and charming towns, offers an alluring blend of French and Italian influences. From Nice, the Italian Riviera is easily accessible, with its sun-drenched beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant cultural scene. The Italian Riviera offers a delightful extension of Nice’s Mediterranean charm.
Small Group: Italian Riviera Tour
Guests can immerse themselves in authentic French-Italian culture by exploring the vibrant open-air markets in San Remo and Bordighera. Held on Tuesdays and Saturdays in San Remo and Thursdays in Bordighera, these markets are renowned for their leather goods, stylish accessories, and fashionable clothing. A scenic drive along the charming Italian Riviera enhances the experience. Guests can enjoy lunch in the picturesque village of Dolceacqua (at their own expense), adding a delightful culinary touch to this French Mediterranean adventure.
Day 12: Monaco, Monte-Carlo, and Eze
This final day in France is an exciting one with a romantic journey to explore the charming Monaco, the high-rollers of Monte-Carlo, and the quintessential village of Eze with its famous perfumery.
Small Group: Riviera Panorama Tour
Travel along the scenic Corniche Road, taking in breathtaking sea views as the route leads to Monaco. Guests will stop at the famous Rock to explore the Old Town, the Prince’s Palace (open April to October), and the Cathedral where Grace Kelly and Prince Rainier were married. There is an opportunity to reflect in peace at their floral-adorned graves. The journey continues through the Monaco Grand Prix circuit to Monte-Carlo, where guests can experience a world of elegance and luxury, including a stop at the iconic Casino Square. The next destination is the enchanting medieval village of Eze, where boutiques are nestled into the rock. Guests will delve into the sensory world of fragrance with a visit to a local perfumery. Heading west, the drive arrives in Cannes, where guests can relax and enjoy panoramic views of the stunning bays of Juan-Les-Pins and Antibes. The route passes the exclusive Cap d’Antibes, known for its affluent residents, before reaching Antibes. In this Provencal walled city, guests will see the glamorous billionaires’ quay, abundant with helicopters and yachts.
Day 13: Depart for Home
Today guests depart from their Nice hotel to the airport via private transfer. They'll have plenty of romantic and timeless memories from their trip to one of Europe's most popular destinations, a journey that will live in their hearts forever!
Inclusions
Includes
- Activities and excursions as specified in the itinerary
- Accommodation: Paris (4 nights) - Lyon (2 nights) - Avignon (3 nights) - Nice (3 nights)
- Meals where noted in the itinerary
- Private arrival and departure transfers, as specified in the itinerary
- Train rides where noted in the itinerary
- Admission tickets as specified in the itinerary
Not Included
- Tips and personal expenses
- Visa and tourism charges
- Travel insurance
- Arrival and departure flights