Bayeux (France) | Bordeaux (France) | Loire (France) | Paris (France)
The following are Journeys: Iconic France tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.We recommended arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city. The "City of Lights" is unlike any other place on earth. Known for its glorious monuments, museums, and markets, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, Montmartre to the Marais, Paris has something for everyone. Discover for yourself Paris' "je ne sais quoi."
Your opportunity to meet your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
Travel to Giverny for an enchanting visit to artist Claude Monet's garden (seasonal*), inspiration for his famed series of water lily paintings and declared one of National Geographic's "top 10 most magnificent gardens in the world." Continue to the pretty port town of Honfleur for a National Geographic Expedition Leader led walk and some free time in this historic harbour where the Seine River meets the English Channel. This evening, arrive in Bayeux and enjoy a dinner at a local creperie.*Monet Gardens is closed from Nov 1 through April 1 yearly. As a result, any departures falling over that time will alternatively visit the Musee de l'Orangerie. At this premiere Gallery in Paris you can view Monet's Waterlilies and many other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings from a number of famed artists.
Depart Paris for Upper Normandy and the quaint village of Giverny. Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked here from 1883 until his death in 1926. Monet felt that his flower and water gardens here were his greatest works of art and to this day, they are meticulously maintained. These served as inspiration for his celebrated water-lily series and have been named by National Geographic as one of the "10 most magnificent gardens in the world."Honfleur sits on the estuary where the River Seine meets the English Channel and is considered one of the prettiest port towns in France. Its quaint harbour and historic buildings have always been a draw for artists, including Monet.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Enjoy a visit and walk through Claude Monet's Garden, inspiration for the artist's water-lily series and named as one of National Geographic's "top 10 most magnificent gardens in the world."
Enjoy free time for a walk and lunch in this pretty seaside Village.
Delve into World War II history alongside a recognized war historian. Gain insights during a lecture on the Allied invasion of Normandy, and examine and handle wartime relics such as vintage weapons, uniforms, and maps at a local museum. Then board a transport vehicle and head to Secqueville-en-Bessin War Cemetery to learn about the significance of poppies-the ultimate emblem of military sacrifice. This afternoon, conjure scenes of the D-Day landing at notable Normandy sites including Omaha Beach, the cratered cliff-top at Pointe du Hoc, and the American cemetery and memorial.
Take in scenes of the D-Day landing which had a pivotal role in the history of the world. Visit the moving memorials and beaches and learn about the impact this event had on the direction of the Second World War. The Battle of Normandy Historical Area is considered an open-air museum and includes all the sites, museums and memorials associated with D-Day and the invasion. Old army bunkers and war relics still exist along the five beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, while museums and memorials throughout the region stand as forceful reminders of this decisive period of WWII. Nearly 30 cemeteries (including American, British, Canadian, French, German and Polish) hold the remains of almost 100,000 young soldiers who never returned from their service in Normandy. Today these memorials offer quiet space for personal reflection for every visitor, young or old, regardless of nationality.
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Here's a day designed for those who can't get enough of WWII history. In the Norman town of Bayeux, meet a recognized war historian who will lead a lecture about the Allied invasion and how it continues to shape this region in Northwest France. Visit a hands-on museum to view and touch relics such as weapons, uniforms, vehicles, and maps. Then board an authentic WWII transport to travel to the British War Cemetery at Secqueville-en-Bessin to walk the grounds and learn about the ultimate emblem of supreme sacrifice in war, the poppy.
With our National Geographic Expedition Leader, visit some of the key landmarks from D-Day which can include; Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American cemetery and memorial.
Go on an excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel, an island commune off the coast of Normandy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the medieval fortress dates to the 8th century and is considered one of Europe's most stunning and imposing sites. Get your bearings on an National Geographic Expedition Leader led orientation walk and then explore on your own. Opt to visit the abbey, monastery, or museums, or simply wander the winding lanes and cobblestone streets.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Visit Mont-Saint-Michel a UNESCO World Heritage site. This medieval fortress is considered one of the most imposing sites in Europe, with origins dating back to the 8th century. After an orientation with our National Geographic Expedition Leader, enjoy free time to wander the winding streets and ally's or climb up to visit the Abbey church.
Explore the cobblestone streets of this medieval fortress town.
Enjoy a free day to explore Bayeux and its medieval centre. Amble along its quaint streets, taking in the local scene at shops and cafes. Then opt to visit the 11th-century Cathedral of Bayeux, a Norman-Romanesque architectural gem, and see the famed Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy.
Please note the Bayeux Tapestry will be closed for 18 months for renovations beginning September 2025.
Explore the cobblestone streets of this medieval town.
Depart for riverside Rouen and set out around the port city on foot. Discover the beautiful city centre, noted for its Gothic churches and medieval half-timbered houses, and hear about its place in history as the place where Joan of Arc was tried for heresy. Enjoy free time here before heading back to Paris to spend the rest of the day at your leisure exploring the City of Lights.
Rouen was an important city in the Roman era and Middle Ages, showcased by its historical (and beautiful) centre of Gothic churches and medieval half-timbered houses. it is most notable as the place where Joan of Arc was tried for heresy.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Take an orientation walk with our National Geographic Expedition Leader and enjoy some free time to visits shops or have lunch.
Enjoy a National Geographic Expedition Leader led orientation walk this morning in the medieval centre of Paris, where you'll stroll by legendary sites like the Pyramide du Louvre, the Pont Neuf, the Conciergerie, and the majestic Notre Dame de Paris. Afterwards, indulge in a guided lunch presentation of French wine and cheese pairings, then take advantage of more free time to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre.
Later this afternoon and evening, you are free to explore on your own to discover the "je ne sais quoi" of this stunning city. Opt to visit the Eiffel Tower, explore the city's outstanding museums and churches, or simply people-watch. Please note, pre-bookings are required for most optional activities, with tickets being available for purchase virtually.
Enjoy a presentation on French wines and the art of perfectly pairing them with cheese. Taste five wines presented by our local expert and learn the proper etiquette, terminology and appreciation of French wine.
Being the art, fashion, and gastronomy centre of France, there is no shortage of things to do and see.
Enjoy a brief walk with your Expedition Leader. He/she will give you some tips on finding things like supermarkets, main squares, and ATMs. For more specific or in-depth information, an official guided tour is recommended.
Enjoy a free day to explore Paris on your own. Discover 19th-century glass-roofed arcades like Galerie Vivienne, visit artistic gems like the Musee de l'Orangerie, or simply relax at a cafe in La Butte-aux-Cailles. Then, reconnect with fellow travellers and your Expedition Leader this evening.
Spend a leisurely day wandering through historic neighborhood streets, enjoying fresh pastries at a pavement cafe, browsing iconic art museums, and watching the sunset along the banks of the Seine.
You may be a seasoned pro at group travel by now, but there will likely be some new travellers joining the group. Sit in on the welcome meeting to meet the newest members of your group and learn about the next leg of your tour.
Board a high-speed train from Paris, watching the urban landscape fade into rolling green countryside as you speed toward the Loire Valley. Transfer to the historic river town of Blois for an orientation walk past half-timbered houses and royal plazas, including free time for lunch on your own at a local bistro. Continue to Chateau de Cheverny for a self-guided walk through furnished rooms untouched by time, seasonal gardens in full bloom, and kennels still home to the chateau's working hounds. Arrive at your hotel with for free time before dinner tonight.
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Set off alongside your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through Blois, a royal city perched gracefully above the Loire River. Thread through charming, narrow medieval lanes past half-timbered houses and historic stone mansions.
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Wander freely through classical rooms filled with lavish period furnishings and exquisite detail, gaining an intimate glimpse into traditional French aristocratic life. Outside, explore sprawling seasonal gardens, pass by the active hunting hound kennels, and admire the distinctive facade that served as the architectural inspiration for Marlinspike Hall in the classic Tintin comic books.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Begin the day in the riverside village of Amboise, following your National Geographic Expedition Leader along historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries. Next, head to Chateau de Chenonceau, an estate that stretches across the river Cher on a series of stone arches. Meet a local historian for a tour through grand arched galleries, rich Renaissance tapestries, and manicured gardens, learning about the women whose ambition and influence shaped its royal past. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening, with freedom to seek out a local spot for dinner.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Join your Expedition Leader for a morning orientation walk through the riverside village of Amboise. Follow historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries, getting comfortably oriented with the town's local charm, boutique shops, and scenic views along the Loire River before enjoying free time for lunch on your own.
Enjoy free time for lunch and to explore Amboise with your Expedition Leader.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Spanning the waters of the River Cher at Chateau de Chenonceau, one of the French Renaissance's most iconic architectural wonders! Known as the "Ladies' Chateau" for the visionary royal women who shaped its design and legacy, this fairy-tale estate bridges history, nature, and art. On a guided visit, explore grand halls hung with vibrant period tapestries, step into historic underground kitchens, and stroll through meticulously manicured Renaissance gardens.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Spend the morning at a family-run winery where the owners welcome you into their vineyards. Walk among the vines, learn about soil health and traditional harvest methods, and taste regional vintages over lunch. Afterward, head to Chisseaux to board a guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River, gliding beneath the arches of Chateau de Chenonceau. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for a quiet evening and optional dinner with your group.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Discover 15 generations of winemaking heritage at a local winery in the Loire Valley. Explore ancient troglodyte cellars to learn how sparkling Cremant de Loire is crafted, sample estate wines, and enjoy a relaxed local lunch featuring authentic regional cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Glide along the tranquil Cher River aboard a scenic riverboat, passing directly beneath the grand, stone arches of Chateau de Chenonceau. As lush riverbanks unfurl, your river guide weaves together the region's rich tapestry-from centuries of royal heritage and vibrant native wildlife to the celebrated, sun-drenched vineyards of La Touraine.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Board a train south to Bordeaux, a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through wide pedestrian squares and past impressive limestone facades. Pause for lunch at a local cafe before some free time. Afterwards, head to the Cite du Vin museum, moving through its interactive exhibits before stepping out onto the Belvedere for a glass of wine and 360-degree city views.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Climb aboard, take a seat, and enjoy the ride.
Join your Expedition Leader on an engaging orientation walk through Bordeaux's historic center. Navigate UNESCO-listed streets, admire grand 18th-century architecture, stroll along the scenic Garonne River promenade, and uncover hidden local squares while getting your bearings in this magnificent city.
Explore global winemaking culture through interactive exhibits at Bordeaux's iconic La Cite du Vin. Afterwards, ascend to the eighth-floor Belvedere to enjoy a glass of wine paired with breathtaking 360-degree views across the skyline and Garonne River.
Enjoy free time to explore Bordeaux, a UNESCO World Heritage city along the Garonne River, renowned for its grand 18th-century architecture, world-famous wine heritage, and vibrant local neighborhoods.
After breakfast, set off to Saint-Emilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Step beneath the cobblestone streets with a local guide for an underground tour of the monolithic church and dark catacombs carved into the rock. Break for lunch on your own before continuing to a winery. Here, join a private tour of the estate and its stone-vaulted cellars, sampling regional Bordeaux and Saint-Emilion wines before returning to Bordeaux for a free evening.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Saint-Emilion is a UNESCO World Heritage medieval village renowned for both its world-class vineyards and its extraordinary underground history. Carved directly into limestone hills, its centerpiece is Europe's largest subterranean church, accessible only with a local guide keyholder.
Exploring Saint-Emilion on your own gives you the freedom to wander at your own pace through steep medieval lanes and along scenic vineyard paths. This UNESCO-listed village is ideal for independent discovery.
Venture beyond the medieval walls of Saint-Emilion into the rolling, vine-covered hills of the surrounding countryside. Here, prestigious Grand Cru estates welcome travelers to explore centuries of winemaking tradition. Step inside a historic cellar to discover how local winemakers blend Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes to craft world-renowned wines, then enjoy a wine tasting.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Travel west to Arcachon on the Atlantic coast to encounter the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. Climb to the top alongside your Expedition Leader for sweeping views over deep pine forests and ocean waves. Later, head into seaside Arcachon for an orientation walk along the waterfront promenade and an included lunch. Return to Bordeaux for a final evening together, gathering for an optional dinner featuring regional specialties.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Ascend Europe's tallest sand dune alongside your Expedition Leader to take in spectacular vistas from over 100 meters high. Climb the ridge stairs to the crest of Dune du Pilat for panoramic views spanning lush maritime pine forests, the Atlantic Ocean, and the shifting sandbanks of Banc d'Arguin.
An orientation walk of Arcachon led by your Expedition Leader introduces you to this famous seaside resort on France's Atlantic coast. Along the way, discover 19th-century eccentric villas, regional oyster-farming traditions, and the unique microclimate that made Arcachon a famous health retreat.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Depart at any time.
We recommend staying a few extra days to experience all this city has to offer.
Not ready to leave? Your Expedition Leader can help with travel arrangements to extend your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Journeys: Iconic France tour:
17 allée de Rio, 33800 Bordeaux
Bordeaux, France
D7, lieu dit les Landes, 1 Les Landes, 41120 Le Controis-en-Sologne
Ouchamps, France
85 Rue du Rocher
Paris, France-7500
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Journeys: Iconic France tour:
Max 16, avg 12.
Your Journeys Highlight Moment: D-Day Historical Experience, BayeuxYour Journeys Highlight Moment: French Wine and Cheese Pairing Lunch, ParisYour Journeys Highlight Moment: Guided Visit of Chateau de Chenonceau, Chateau de ChenonceauYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and GroupYour Discover Moment: Paris. Visit of Monet Gardens (Seasonal). Excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel. Paris orientation walk. Board a high-speed train from Paris. Riverside village of Amboise. Family-run winery. Guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River. Board a train south to Bordeaux. Visit and tasting at Cite du Vin museum. Saint-Emilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Private tour of the wine estate with tasting. Arcachon on the Atlantic coast, and encounter the Dune du Pilat. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Delve into history and culture in France's Norman villages, explore D-Day and WWII military sites with an expert, stroll through Claude Monet's garden, Visit inside Chateau de Cheverny, royal history on the Cher, vineyard roots at Plou et Fils, sailing past Chenonceau, underground Saint-Emilion.
G Adventures is offering the following optional activities at an additional cost, subject to availability:
Paris- Eiffel Tower Visit (16EUR per person)- Musee d'Orsay Visit (11EUR per person)- Sacre Coeur Visit (Free)- The Louvre Visit (12-16EUR per person)
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels - 14 nts.
14 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 2 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader throughout.
All National Geographic Journeys with G Adventures group trips are accompanied by one of our National Geographic Expedition Leader. The aim of the National Geographic Expedition Leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting- we think it's the best of both worlds.
Private vehicle, train, walking.
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Footwear (required) (Closed toe suggested)o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Smart Dress:o Smart outfit (For evenings out)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, as well as on and off transportation.
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.
While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your National Geographic Expedition Leader will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your National Geographic Expedition Leader for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.At the end of each trip, if you felt your National Geographic Expedition Leader did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €8-10 per person, per day can be used as a guideline.