Day 1 : Fly to France

We board our overnight flight to Paris, referred to as the heart, soul, and imagination of France.

Day 2 : Bon Jour Paris

Paris unfolds before our eyes as we are introduced to its sights and sounds by our English-speaking Parisian guide. This cosmopolitan city pulses with activity and we begin our adventure right where the city got its start, Ile de la Cite. Discover vibrant culture and famed book shops as we tour the Latin District and Place des Vosges, the oldest square in Paris. A festive Holiday Vacations Welcome Lunch at a local restaurant offers the opportunity to get to know our fellow travelers. In the afternoon, we arrive at our hotel where we enjoy the luxury of unpacking just once during our five-night stay.

Day 3 : Monet’s Garden & Versailles

Enjoy a full breakfast before venturing out to begin our guided group activities. Today we travel through the French countryside to the charming village of Giverny, home to Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Surrounded by nature’s beauty, the serene atmosphere of his home and gardens will feel as if we have stepped into some of his most famous paintings. This afternoon we visit Versailles, residence of King Louis XIV and the seat of France’s government for a hundred years. Meticulously maintained, the Chateau’s grandeur and brilliance remains as it was in the 17th century. Get a glimpse of life in this opulent palace on our tour through the State Apartments. Beginning in the King’s Wing, we walk through the impressive Hall of Mirrors before exiting by way of the Queen’s Wing. After our visit to spectacular Versailles, we return to Paris late this afternoon. The rest of the day is yours to explore all Paris has to offer. If you are tempted by the renowned French cabarets, tonight may be your night to enjoy a signature Parisian stage show.

Day 4 : Seine River Cruise

Today is open for individual pursuits. Take time this morning to stroll down the Champs-Elysees, visit museums, or enjoy the scenery at one of many gardens in Paris. If shopping is your desire, you may choose to visit the famous department stores, Galleries Lafayette and Printemps, that can be found along Boulevard Haussmann. Tonight we dine at a quaint French restaurant before enjoying a scenic cruise on the Seine River. We float past illuminated monuments, bridges, buildings, and Notre Dame. The evening takes on a magical feel as the Eiffel Tower’s golden lacework glows from within against the dramatic night sky.

Day 5 : The Louvre

After a restful morning and included breakfast, join your Tour Director for a closer look at this fascinating city. Paris is a collection of unique neighborhoods. We begin our day with a stroll along a bustling street lined with bakeries, butcher shops, and stores selling cheese, wine, fruits, vegetables, flowers, and chocolate. During our exploration, art connoisseurs will also have an opportunity to visit the Musee d’Orsay and marvel at impressionist paintings. We follow this with a visit to the Saint Germain des Prés neighborhood. This area was made famous by philosophers, actors, musicians, and writers, such as Hemingway, that frequented its many cafes. This evening we visit the Louvre, one of the world’s most famous museums. Our guided tour through what started as a 16th-century palace is a walk through France’s history. Home to a vast collection of classic and modern art, we will be inspired by DaVinci’s Mona Lisa, the ancient Greek statues Venus de Milo and Winged Victory and the colossal painting The Coronation of Napoleon.

Day 6 : Monmartre & Sacre Coeur

Experience a leisurely pace of life as we join a local guide to wander the winding streets and cobbled lanes of Paris’s highest hilltop, Montmartre. Ascending by funicular to Sacre Coeur, enjoy incredible views in all directions. We find the artist’s square of Place du Tertre in full swing as painters’ visions come to life. Make room in your checked luggage for a piece of original artwork, a lasting memory that will transport you back to this very location. We conclude our magnificent trip with a Farewell Lunch at Madame Brasserie, located inside the Eiffel Tower. Savor indulgent foods and take in the spectacular views of the French Capitol as you dine and reminisce with fellow travelers. Enjoy one last evening at leisure to soak up this beautiful city.

Enjoy a Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner for the perfect ending of A Week to Remember.

Day 7 : Au Revoir Paris

We return home with fond memories of our time in the City of Lights.