Ultimate Southern France with Paris Extension - 2023/2024
Tour Type: Luxury Gold
Brochure Type: Luxury Gold 2023 v2
Frolic in France and Monaco on this 15-day guided tour. In spectacular Saint-Tropez, a Local Expert will guide you along the coastal town's ancient walls for stunning views of the sea below. See three architecture styles beautifully combine at the Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Slide into the passenger's seat of a vintage car for a drive through the countryside, then sip on wine at a countryside winery. Watch as lights dance across a limestone quarry at the Carrieres de Lumieres show. In Avignon, feast on French food at the Michelin-starred La Vieille Fontaine. Explore Old Town Albi, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the banks of the river Tarn. In Paris, take your two-day museum pass to the city's most incredible sights, including the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay.
Choice Highlights
Brochure Type: Luxury Gold 2023 v2
Frolic in France and Monaco on this 15-day guided tour. In spectacular Saint-Tropez, a Local Expert will guide you along the coastal town's ancient walls for stunning views of the sea below. See three architecture styles beautifully combine at the Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Slide into the passenger's seat of a vintage car for a drive through the countryside, then sip on wine at a countryside winery. Watch as lights dance across a limestone quarry at the Carrieres de Lumieres show. In Avignon, feast on French food at the Michelin-starred La Vieille Fontaine. Explore Old Town Albi, a UNESCO World Heritage site on the banks of the river Tarn. In Paris, take your two-day museum pass to the city's most incredible sights, including the Louvre and the Musee d'Orsay.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Nice: Visit a private beach and take some time to relax in a comfortable sun lounger with a cocktail in hand as you marvel at the turquoise waters of the Bay of Angels.
- Nice: Join a Local Expert to take a walk through the charming streets of Old Nice and see the Opera, the antique market, and the St Reparate Cathedral.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Chateau La Coste: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience sample the estate's organic wines and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. In 2009, the wines of Chateau La Coste were labeled 'Organic Agriculture', a label which recognizes respect for the land as well as the methods, in perfect harmony with nature . Since 2013, the 125 hectare vineyard has been fully converted to organic and have installed a water purification plant and are studying waste recycling to further reduce their carbon footprint.
- Chateau La Coste: Join a Local Expert for a relaxed walk among olive groves and woods to discover the installations created by the best modern artists and architects.
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Bordeaux: Take a relaxing bike tour around the City of Bordeaux. Enjoy a beautiful loop of the Garonne river, pass through the Chartrons district and stop in the picturesque park Jardin Public. See the Palais Gallien and the grand shopping centrer, Glace des Grands Hommes.
- Bordeaux: Join a Local Expert to discover the best sights in Bordeaux. See the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the famous Water Mirror, the stunning neoclassic theatre and the modern architecture of the Cite du Vin.
- : Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travelling Concierge's, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols.
- : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues.
- : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
- Monaco City: Join your Travelling Concierge for guided sightseeing of glamourous Monaco. See the Grand Prix circuit - famous for hosting the annual Formula One Monaco Grand Prix - explore the old town, and admire the Royal Palace where the Grimaldi family lives. Wander along the yacht-filled harbour and see the cathedral, which houses the tombs of the late Prince Rainier and Princess Grace.
- Nice: Visit a private beach and take some time to relax in a comfortable sun lounger with a cocktail in hand as you marvel at the turquoise waters of the Bay of Angels.
- Nice: Join a Local Expert to take a walk through the charming streets of Old Nice and see the Opera, the antique market, and the St Reparate Cathedral.
- French Riviera: Join a Local Expert to visit the opulent VillaEphrusside Rothschild and its gardens. Built by the passionate art collector MadameEphrussi,shegatheredthe best from each era including delicate pieces of furniture once belonging to Marie Antoinette
- Saint-Tropez: Take in the best of Saint-Tropez as a Local Expert guides you through the remains of the ancient landmark Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption and its colourful bell tower. Afterward, taste the local Saint Tropez tart pastry in the bakery where it was first created in the 1950s.
- Chateau La Coste: Join a Local Expert for a relaxed walk among olive groves and woods to discover the installations created by the best modern artists and architects.
- Cassis: Board your private cruise through the Calanques National Park to admire the towering limestone cliffs and the long, narrow and deep fjord-like inlets.
- Lourmarin: Visit the tree lined avenues of Lourmarin and explore the lively market featuring crafts, clothing and local delicacies.
- Provence: Take a seat in your chauffeured Citroen 2CV and embark on a drive through the hilly countryside passing fields of lavender.
- Les Baux-de-Provence: See the fantastic light and sound show in an abandoned limestone quarry and a nod to an ever-changing selection of great artists including Klimt, Gaugin, or Bosch in the past.
- Carcassonne: Carcassonne represents one of the biggest and best-preserved fortified cities in Europe, with 53 watchtowers and 1.5 miles of ramparts open to the public. Explore this real-life Magic Kingdom with a Local Expert and uncover its rich history, dating back to the pre-Roman period.
- Cite de Carcassone: Admire flora and fauna, rural vistas and lush vineyards on this gentle 1.5-hour cruise. Built in the late 17th century as a shipping short cut between the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean,the Canal du Midi is one of Europe's oldest canals still in operation.
- Bordeaux: Take a relaxing bike tour around the City of Bordeaux. Enjoy a beautiful loop of the Garonne river, pass through the Chartrons district and stop in the picturesque park Jardin Public. See the Palais Gallien and the grand shopping centrer, Glace des Grands Hommes.
- Bordeaux: Join a Local Expert to discover the best sights in Bordeaux. See the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the famous Water Mirror, the stunning neoclassic theatre and the modern architecture of the Cite du Vin.
- Aix-en-Provence: Delight your tastebuds at L'Orangerie Restaurant in Aix-en-Provence's luxurious Chateau de Fonscolombe. Enjoy the combination of Provencal and creative gourmet cuisine, made from fresh, local ingredients.
- Aix-en-Provence: At your fun cooking class learn how to make a seasonal and classic French dessert.
- Chateau La Coste: On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience sample the estate's organic wines and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. In 2009, the wines of Chateau La Coste were labeled 'Organic Agriculture', a label which recognizes respect for the land as well as the methods, in perfect harmony with nature . Since 2013, the 125 hectare vineyard has been fully converted to organic and have installed a water purification plant and are studying waste recycling to further reduce their carbon footprint.
- Cassis: Indulge in a divine seafood dinner in the charming fishing village of Cassis.
- Cavaillon: Visit the acclaimed winery, Domaine de la Citadelle, for a tour of its grounds and a picnic lunch. Savor a selection of Provencal favorites paired with local wine.
- Avignon: Indulge in a superb dinner at the Michelin-starred La Vieille Fontaine. The elegant Provencal restaurant serves modern cuisine for a gourmet affair to remember.
- Provence: Visit Chateau d'Estoublon, known for its certified Protected Designation of Origin olive oils, expertly crafted from five varieties native to the region. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience enjoy a guided visit of the estate to learn about organic farming practices and sample a selection of olive oils.
- Bordeaux: Conclude your journey with a superb dining experience at the historic Chateau du Ferrand, where you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner. Learn how the estate is working towards a more environmental future by using organic fertilizers, protecting local fauna and harvesting by hand.
- Dining Summary: 6 Dinner (D), 14 Breakfast (B), and 2 Lunch with Wine (L)
- Avignon: In the quiet streets of Avignon you will be taken to the quaint Oratory Chapel, opened specially for you, to enjoy an intimate private concert with a local singer.
- You will be escorted by one of our fine Travelling Concierges, handpicked to serve as your expert guide, consummate organiser, and friend overseas.
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary, available on departures with 15 or more guests.
- At every hotel, you'll be treated to seamless baggage handling, with prompt delivery inside your room.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- Complimentary, airport transfers are included on start and end dates and when additional accommodation has been booked through Luxury Gold. Guests will be transferred with fellow Luxury Gold Travellers that arrive on the same flight. Complimentary, private train station transfers are included when train travel is included within the itinerary. Transfers to train stations or alternate hotels, in the same start or end city of the itinerary, may be requested but are not guaranteed.
Call 1 8003707400 e x t 32 for more information or to book today! Mention code 17096416
- Tour Operator
- Luxury Gold by Insight
- Offer
- Offer valid through 3/31/2023
- Duration
- 15 Days
- Escorted
- Escorted - Yes
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | The French Riviera | Welcome to the French Riviera.: After your arrival at Nice Airport, you are transported to your lavish hotel in Monte Carlo. Meet your Travelling Concierge and fellow travellers at 18:00 for a Welcome Dinner by the Fontvieille marina. Tonight, see the Grimaldi Palace as you travel along the legendary Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit. Fairmont Monte Carlo. |
| Day 2 | Nice | Nice sightseeing.: Marvel at the breathtaking coastline from the corniche on your way to Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and join a Local Expert to visit the opulent Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild and its gardens. Built by the passionate art collector Madame Ephrussi, she gathered the best from each era including delicate pieces of furniture once belonging to Marie Antoinette. Continue your scenic sojourn to Nice.Your Journey, Your Way.Choose to join a Local Expert to take a walk through the charming streets of Old Nice and see the Opera, the antique market, and the St Reparate Cathedral. Alternatively, visit a private beach and relax in a reserved comfortable sun lounger with a cocktail in hand as you marvel at the turquoise waters of the Bay of Angels. Fairmont Monte Carlo. |
| Day 3 | Star-studded St Tropez | Star-studded St Tropez.: Travel to Sainte-Maxime and take a short boat ride to spectacular St. Tropez. The town shot to stardom after Brigitte Bardot's classic 'And God Created Woman' and has maintained a reputation of hedonistic lifestyle ever since. Join a Local Expert to discover the remains of ancient walls, medieval towers and see the landmark Notre Dame de l'Assomption. Taste the local Tarte Tropezienne pastry at the bakery where it was first created in the 1950s. Arrive to magical Provence and to the immaculately renovated, 18th century Chateau de Fonscolombe, your splendid accommodation for the next three nights. Dine tonight at your hotel's L'Orangerie Restaurant serving flavourful and creative dishes. Chateau de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence. |
| Day 4 | Aix-en-Provence | Aix-en-Provence. Relaxed Start: Cultural and gastronomic highlights await as you explore lively Aix-en-Provence and the surrounding countryside. Join your Local Expert and walk through the maze-like streets of the Old Town and see the Aix Cathedral. Follow in the footsteps of the city's native Paul Cezanne along the tree-lined Cours Mirabeau and dine at a French bistro in the heart of the Mazarin district. Afterward, take part in an engaging cooking class where you'll join a professional chef while learning how to make a seasonal and classical French dessert.Your Journey, Your Way.Stop by the stunning Chateau La Coste, an excellent winery and open-air museum. Choose to join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience to sample the estate's organic wines and visit their one-of-a-kind contemporary wine cellar. Alternatively, join a Local Expert for a relaxed walk among olive groves and woods to discover the installations created by the best modern artists and architects. Chateau de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence. |
| Day 5 | Calanques National Park | Calanques National Park. Relaxed Start: Spend the morning in the calm surroundings of your hotel; stroll or cycle in the Chateau gardens, try your hand at the classic French game of petanque or simply relax by the pool. In the afternoon, head to the seaside of Cassis. Board your private cruise to journey through Calanques National Park to admire the towering limestone cliffs and the long, narrow and deep fjord-like inlets. As the crowds disappear upon your return to Cassis, enjoy the calm charm of the fishing village while indulging in a divine seafood dinner. Chateau de Fonscolombe, Aix-en-Provence. |
| Day 6 | French Icons | French Icons. Relaxed Start: Today is dedicated to quintessential French experiences. Start by visiting the village of Lourmarin and browse the stalls of its famous market. Next, take a seat in your vintage Citroen 2CV and embark on a chauffeured drive through the hilly countryside. Arrive at the Domaine de la Citadelle, an acclaimed winery, and tour its grounds before diving into a picnic lunch. Try a selection of Provencal favourites paired with local wine. Later, arrive to riverside Avignon and see the famous Pont d'Avignon, the impressive city walls and the Papal Palace. Hotel d'Europe Avignon. |
| Day 7 | Les Baux and Arles | Les Baux and Arles.: Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER Experience during a visit to Chateau d'Estoublon, known for its certified Protected Designation of Origin olive oils, expertly crafted from five varieties native to the region. Next up is a dazzling light and sound show at the Carrieres de Lumieres, projected in an abandoned limestone quarry with a nod to an ever-changing selection of renowned artists. Afterward, you'll travel to Arles with your Local Expert to take in the sites of the first century Roman Amphitheatre and to discover the profound influence Aries had on Vincent Van Gogh. Back in Avignon, take a moment to slow down and let your mind wander as you are treated to an intimate private concert with a local singer at the quaint Oratory Chapel, opened specially for you. Indulge in a superb dinner at the Michelin-starred La Vieille Fontaine. The elegant Provencal restaurant serves well-crafted modern cuisine, a gourmet affair to remember. Hotel d'Europe Avignon. |
| Day 8 | Carcassonne | Carcassonne Sightseeing. Relaxed Start: Enjoy a relaxed start before visiting the Pont du Gard, an exceptionally well-preserved Roman aqueduct. Journey on to the historic fortified city of Carcassonne. This evening, take a historical stroll with a local expert to admire the impressive medieval structures and discover the past. Hotel de la Cite Carcassonne - MGallery, Carcassonne. |
| Day 9 | Carcassonne and the Languedoc Region | Carcassonne and the Languedoc Region Relaxed Start: Enjoy a leisurely morning before embarking on a cruise of the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy sublime views as you meander through ancient villages, vineyards and Roman fortifications. Following lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon is yours to further enjoy the delights of Carcassonne. Hotel de la Cite Carcassonne - MGallery, Carcassonne. |
| Day 10 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux Sightseeing.: Journey to the enchanting region of Bordeaux.
Your Journey, Your Way.With the help of your Local Expert, choose to learn about the impressive 18th century architecture of Vieux Bordeaux, which was financed by the colonial trade. See the Triangle d'Or and the magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces. Alternatively, explore on a relaxing bike tour. Enjoy a beautiful loop of the Garonne river, pass through the Chartrons district, and stop in the picturesque Jardin Public. Le Grand Hotel, Bordeaux. |
| Day 11 | Bordeaux | Bordeaux. Relaxed Start: Today is yours to enjoy Bordeaux at your leisure. Later, visit the nearby town of St. Emilion, famed for its wines. Tonight, conclude your journey with a superb dining experience at the historic Chateau du Ferrand, where you toast to your travels during your Celebration Dinner. Le Grand Hotel, Bordeaux. |
| Day 12 | Travel to Paris | Travel to Paris.: Board the high-speed TGV and enjoy the comfort of 1st class as you travel to the French capital of Paris. You are met by your Luxury Gold host and transferred to your hotel right next to the world-famous Musee du Louvre. Hotel du Louvre, Paris. |
| Day 13 | Paris | Paris Sightseeing.: Meet your Local Expert for a tour of the city's sights. See the Ile de la Cite where Paris was founded, the Arch d' Triomphe echoing Napoleon's military might and the iconic Eiffel Tower. Take your time strolling along the Seine or sit in a cafe and watch the world go by.With your included Museum Pass you can spend time exploring the Louvre, marvel at the best of the Impressionists at Musee D'Orsay or visit the neo-classical Pantheon, the temple of the French nation. Hotel du Louvre, Paris. |
| Day 14 | Paris | Paris at your Leisure.: As you continue your exploration venture into different Parisian neighbourhoods and discover the bohemian charm of Montmartre, the lively Latin Quarter or browse the high-end shops around the Champs Elysee. Continue taking advantage of your Museum Pass. Hotel du Louvre, Paris. |
| Day 15 | Paris | Depart Paris.: Your wonderful stay concludes with private transfers to the airport after breakfast. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Disclaimer
- Twin prices are per person.
- These prices are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.
- All tour information is correct at time of tours going live, however is subject to change, please confirm all details at time of booking.
- For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Conditions page.
- Hotel Class Key: D: Deluxe SF: Superior First Class F: First Class
