Crossing France – 7 nights – 8 days

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1: CÔTE D'AZUR

Welcome to France! Transfer you to the hotel and free time. You will receive information in the afternoon, either directly or through the information board located at the hotel reception.

DAY 2: CÔTE D'AZUR - SAINTE-MAXIME - SAINT-TROPEZ – MARSEILLE

Today, we’ll explore the Côte d´Azur and the Mediterranean. After breakfast, we’ll take a brief panoramic tour by coach of Nice, the capital of the Côte d´Azur. We’ll drive along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, famous for its stunning coastal views, pass through Massena Square, the heart of the city, and admire its charming old port. Next, we’ll head to Saint-Maxime, a delightful seaside town where we’ll stroll through its historic centre and picturesque port, home to the 16th-century “Square Tower.” From there, we’ll board a scenic boat to cross the beautiful bay and arrive in Saint-Tropez, where the old fishing port is now a showcase for some of the world’s most luxurious yachts. We’ll have time to explore and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Marseille, the second-largest city in France, where we’ll discover the lively “Vieux Port” (Old Port).

DAY 3: MARSEILLE - ARLES - AVIGNON – LYON

Villages, landscapes, history – today we’ll see some of the most beautiful places in Provence. In Arles, a UNESCO World Heritage city, we’ll explore its Roman and medieval legacy and be reminded of Van Gogh. In Les Baux, we’ll visit this small medieval village and include admission to Carrières de Lumières, an impressive underground show that combines art, image, and sound in its old quarries. We’ll have time for lunch and a stroll in Avignon, home to the immense Palais des Papes. Our journey will continue to Lyon, where we’ll walk through the World Heritage Site old town and take the cable car up to Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a huge basilica offering a great view over the city.

Note: If tickets for the Carrières de Lumières show are unavailable due to closure or high demand, we will visit the Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard instead.

DAY 4: LYON - TOURNUS - SAVIGNY CASTLE - BEAUNE – DIJON

We’ll set off from Lyon and head to the Burgundy region. Our first stop will be Tournus, a quaint little town with an imposing stone gate and a large abbey. After that, we’ll travel to Beaune, where we’ll have time for lunch and to explore the wine capital of Burgundy. We recommend visiting the wine museum or the historic hospice. Next, we’ll visit the Savigny Castle, situated in the heart of this winemaking region. Built in the 15th century, the castle houses extraordinary museums featuring motorbikes, racing cars, planes, and helicopters. Our journey will continue to Dijon, the capital of Burgundy, known for its lively streets and numerous medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the standout Palace of the Dukes.

DAY 5: DIJON - ABBEY OF FONTENAY - SEMUR-EN-AUXOIS - VÉZELAY – PARIS

We’ll leave Dijon for Fontenay Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we’ll include admission to this Cistercian centre. Afterward, we’ll stop in Semur-en-Auxois, a medieval city surrounded by impressive ancient walls. Still in Burgundy, we’ll have time for lunch and a stroll in Vézelay, one of France’s most beautiful villages, where its immense basilica was one of the starting points of the Way of St. James. In the afternoon, we’ll continue our route to Paris, arriving in the evening.

DAY 6: PARIS

We’ll immerse ourselves in the rich history of FRANCE at the magnificent Palace of Versailles (admission not included), renowned for its stunning gardens. On our return to PARIS, we’ll visit Montmartre, a charming bohemian neighbourhood famous for its artists, painters, and cabarets. To fully appreciate the grandeur of Paris, we’ll embark on a panoramic city tour with a local guide, showcasing the city’s impressive avenues and iconic monuments. Afterward, we’ll return to the hotel. For those interested, there is an optional variety show in the evening.

DAY 7: PARIS

We’ll start our day in central PARIS, beginning with a visit to the iconic Eiffel Tower. You´ll have the chance to go up to the second floor of this famous iron landmark (tickets included). Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the Seine, which will last approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. You’ll have a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace (transfer back to the hotel not included).

Note: If wait times at the Eiffel Tower are too long, we might reschedule the visit to a different time (or on Sunday) for your convenience.

DAY 8: PARIS

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.