Memorable Paris and French Regions

Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel for check-in and the remainder of the evening at your leisure to explore the City of Lights.

Meet your guide at the fountain in Place Saint-Michel to begin your walking tour of this romantic city. Your guide will take you to the site of Notre Dame Cathedral and down the picturesque lanes of Ile de la Cite and the Latin Quarter. Visit the impressive Church of St. Germain l’Auxerrios before arriving at the iconic Louvre. Use your skip-the-line entrance ticket to pass the crowded lines for a full tour of the gallery with your local guide. At the end of your walking tour, you will board a Seine River cruise to enjoy a relaxing ride and views of the city from the water. (B)

Today you will visit three of the most beautiful castles in the region; the majestic Chambord, the elegant Chenonceau and the powerfully forged Amboise. Chambord, one of the most majestic chateaux you will see, boasts massive medieval towers perfectly blended with Renaissance elegance. Amboise, with its spectacular view of the Loire, is famous for being the last resting place of Leonardo da Vinci. Finally, Chenonceau stands out as the most beautiful chateaux in all of the Loire Valley with its ornately carved decorations and history of romance and rivalry. Following your visits, return to Paris for dinner at your leisure. (B)

Today, join a small group workshop to explore the world of French cheese and wine as you taste your way around France. Start your workshop with a visit to the historic Ile Saint Louis where your local cheese expert awaits. There, your chef will help you navigate the cheeses of France and you’ll select some excellent fromages to sample with your wines back at the school. (B)

This amazing day combines the art of Champagne production in Epernay with the history and heritage of Reims. Leave Paris behind and head out with your local guide to the prestigious Moet and Chandon Champagne house in Epernay, the Champagne capital of the world. Later, leave Epernay for a ride around Reims Mountain Regional Nature Park, home to Grand Crus vineyards, before reaching Hautvillers. This charming village is best known for its most famous former resident, Dom Perignon, the innovative Benedictine monk who dedicated most of his life to producing and perfecting Champagne. After enjoying the beauty of the vines, villages and short stops en route, you will reach the last stop of your day – a family run winery where you will have the opportunity to taste four different Champagnes before returning to Paris. (B)

Prepare for an early morning departure from Paris to make the most of the day, enjoying the scenery of the French countryside on the drive to Mont Saint-Michel. Perched on a small, rocky islet near the mouth of the Couesnon River on the Normandy coast, this distinctive island community has survived the elements and manmade conflicts through the centuries and is a symbol of French national pride. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at La Mere Poulard, famous for its fluffy, decadent omelettes, for a delicious 4-course meal. In the afternoon, visit the magnificent Mont Saint-Michel Abbey, offering spectacular views of the bay and coastline. Enjoy a bit of free time to wander the island’s narrow streets and shops before returning to Paris. (B,L)

Enjoy a final Parisian breakfast before making your way to the airport for your return flight home. (B)