France is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. From its iconic cities to its world-class wine regions and sun-kissed Riviera, it’s almost impossible to see all the best sides of France in less than days. But our Wonderful France tour does exactly that – it’s nine perfect days taking you from the streets of Paris to the beaches of St. Tropez and Monaco along the Côte d’Azur. One day, you’re sipping wines in the top Burgundy and Provençal wineries, and the next, strolling through the ancient towns of Avignon and Arles.
And who can forget the food? You’ll have plenty of opportunities to dive into the mouthwatering French cuisine, from traditional Beaujolais cuisine in Lyon to a homecooked meal of regional flavours by innkeeper Patrick in Camargue. The whole trip is glorious, glamorous, and so fantastically French.
Ready to embrace the oh-la-la when you travel to France? Here are seven of the best experiences on our Wonderful France tour that will have you feeling l’amour.
1. Stroll the streets of Paris
What could be dreamier than exploring the hidden laneways and historic neighbourhoods of Paris? When you travel to France, you’ll spend your first days wandering down iconic avenues like the Champs-Élysées where you’ll set eyes on the glorious Arc de Triomphe.
You’ll then meet with a Local Specialist to get an insider’s look into the Latin Quarter, a local hotspot packed with historic treasures. Visit the incredible Church of Saint-Sulpice, roam through the stunning Sorbonne University, and fill up on croissants and macarons at an authentic boulangerie. You can even embrace the Parisian pleasure of relaxing in a lush park and watching the world go by. Magnifique!
2. Embrace the glamour of the French Riviera
From city streets to sunny shores… the French Riviera is the place to soak up the oh-la-la of France. On our Wonderful France tour, you’ll get immersed in the glamour of Monaco. Then perhaps choose to spend your afternoon relaxing on a sunlounger in Cannes, a glass of wine and a delicious Salade Niçoise in hand.
Take a boat to glitzy Saint-Tropez or explore the hilltop town of Saint-Paul-de-Vence – both popular haunts for artists and A-listers. Dive into the nostalgia of the French Riviera and follow the path of icons such as Pablo Picasso and Claude Monet who were inspired by this spectacular region.
You can even visit fabulous Nice and roam through the historic old towns and cobbled streets. Be sure to stop at the provençal markets for delicious, fresh pastries.
3. Explore the historic city of Avignon
Once the seat of the Papacy, the ancient city of Avignon has a knack for wowing everyone who visits. You’ll have two nights to see the historic treasures, such as the magnificent Palais des Papes Palace of the Popes and the famous bridge across the Rhône, the Pont d’Avignon.
If you’re feeling inspired, you’re in good company. The ancient bridge was the inspiration behind the iconic French song, Sur le Pont d’Avignon. You also can’t miss wandering the medieval streets and laneways of the Old Town of Avignon – it’s simply gorgeous.
If you want to continue your French fantasy in the Provence region, you’ll have the chance to visit the vineyards and cellars at a classic French Chateau Estate. As you savour different wines and enjoy a traditional Provençal dinner, you’re sure to fall in love with France.
4. Sip wine in Burgundy
One wine region just isn’t enough for a trip to France – so we also take you through the spectacular Burgundy wine region. We’ll stop in the capital of Beaune, where you can explore historic fortress walls and incredible renaissance roofing.
You’ll marvel at its famously colourful geometric-tiled Hospices de Beaune, or Hôtel-Dieu, a medieval hospital foundation that’s now an impressive museum and historic monument. This is the city where world-class wine and amazing architecture meet for a truly French love affair.
5. Indulge in Beaujolais flavours in Lyon
French cuisine is another huge drawcard, so we wouldn’t let you leave without plenty of culinary delights. We’ll head to the gastronomic capital of Lyon where you’ll explore the history of the beautifully-preserved Old Town, before indulging in traditional Beaujolais cuisine.
You’ll meet a Local Specialist who will guide you through the cobbled streets, ducking through hidden courtyards and traboules, the secret covered passageways of Lyon. At every turn, you’ll discover ancient wonders of the UNESCO-listed Old Town, which has hosted everyone from the Romans and Gauls to the Gothic cathedral builders and the Renaissance silk merchants. After filling up on history, you’ll then get to satisfy your cravings with a delicious three-course French feast – paired with local wines, of course.
6. Join innkeeper Patrick for a homecooked lunch in the Camargue
Our Wonderful France tour goes beyond the icons to show you the real, authentic side of France. We’ll go from the Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct bridge, still standing since the 1st century AD, to the Camargue, the largest river delta region in Western Europe.
The natural region is famed for its pink flamingos, sandy beaches and salt marshes – and its cuisine. You’ll meet a Camargue local, innkeeper Patrick, for a homecooked lunch of traditional, regional dishes. It’s all made with produce from local farmers and markets and it’s utterly mouthwatering. As you enjoy your meal, you’ll get to chat with Patrick and hear stories about life as an innkeeper in the Camargue.
7. Walk in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh in Arles
We’ll journey to Arles, once an important Phoenician trading port, where you’ll marvel at its Romanesque cathedral and awe-inspiring Roman amphitheatre. Once the site of battles and chariot races, you’ll walk in the footsteps of gladiators, warriors and emperors. Later, you’ll walk a slightly different path in Arles – that of Vincent Van Gogh. You’ll join a Local Specialist to discover how Van Gogh spent a year in Arles producing some of his most famous paintings, inspired by the light and colour of the South of France.
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