Jewels of France including Normandy

Day 1  Paris          
Ah Paris! After checking in, meet your Travel Director for a glimpse into what lies ahead then hit the streets and explore the city your way, perhaps seeking out delicious French flavours at a local café. This evening you may wish to discover why Paris is so deserving of its title, the 'City of Lights'.    

Day 2  Paris to Le Havre          
Retrace the steps of one of France’s beloved daughters, St. Joan of Arc, when you visit medieval Rouen today. Here you’ll view the city’s impressive cathedral whose towers, statues and pinnacles were favourite subjects in the paintings of French Impressionist, Claude Monet. There’s time to stretch your legs along Honfleur’s colourful 17th-century harbour before heading to Le Havre. Located at the mouth of the river Seine and the English Channel, Le Havre became associated with Impressionist painters including Boudin, Sisley and Monet. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its Modernist, rebuilt town centre.   

Day 3  Le Havre to Rennes      
Begin your day with a moving visit to the D-Day Landing beaches and American cemetery at Omaha Beach. Today the views may be serene, but you can’t help thinking back to that summer day in 1944 when thousands of Allied soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice to reclaim Europe. After this incredibly humbling experience, continue on to UNESCO-listed Mont Saint-Michel, which seems to rise magically up from the sea at high tide. The spire of the Abbey seems to almost touch the heavens, crowned with a golden statue of the Archangel, who legend has it ordered the construction of the chapel in this unusual island location. Arriving in Rennes later, you have a free evening to explore the city as you wish.

Day 4  Rennes to Tours      
Elegant estates and manicured gardens dot the Loire River as it slices through the heart of France. Discover Saumur, sitting elegantly astride the Loire and home to France’s national equestrian school. Not only is the city of Tours the former capital of France and a beautiful gateway to the Loire Valley, it’s also heaven for foodies as you’ll have an opportunity to discover on your free evening.    

Day 5  Loire Valley    
Explore the fairy-tale châteaux of the Loire Valley today. First stop at Château d'Amboise whose art and architecture were both inspired by the Italian Renaissance. The next jewel to admire is stylish Chenonceau, straddling the Cher River, on a whimsical tour of this 16th-century château and its garden. Marvel at the priceless collections of Renaissance art and furniture before returning to your hotel in Tours where you’ll enjoy dinner tonight.  

Day 6  Tours to Paris            
There’s another château in store this morning as you begin your return journey to Paris. We’ve saved the biggest for last and you’ll have an opportunity to view the grand Château de Chambord and its surrounding forest. Arrive in Paris just in time to enjoy a memorable dinner and a dazzling cabaret show, if you wish.  

Day 7  Paris          
From the Eiffel Tower and grand Champs-Élysées to the iconic Arc de Triomphe, you won’t miss a thing this morning on your sightseeing tour. There’s plenty of time this afternoon to discover Paris for yourself. Take a stroll through the medieval Latin Quarter or people-watch at a sidewalk bistro.  

Day 8  Paris    
Your whirlwind adventure through France has come to an end. You’ve seen medieval cities, walked in the footsteps of saints, soldiers and noblemen, and immersed yourself in the art, culture and history. Say a fond au revoir to your Travel Director and newfound friends and transfer to the airport for your onwards flight.