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Lots of France (and a Touch of Monaco) Tour

For a wonderful look at both urban and rural France, consider our “Lots of France” tour, which also includes a final leg in beautiful Monaco. This exciting trip takes travelers to France’s vibrant capital city as well as a number of other notable French destinations, all offering something a little different for the traveler who wants more than just the big city experience.

Begin with a 4-night stay in Paris. You’ll arrive in the early morning and enjoy the afternoon at leisure. In the evening, indulge your senses with an Illumination Tour of Paris, an opportunity to see the city’s great buildings and monuments adorned in twinkling lights. Conclude the evening with a show at the famed Moulin Rouge. The next day, you’ll depart on a two-hour “Paris-at-a-Glance” tour, with the opportunity to view many of the city’s spectacular sites including the Champs-Elysees, the Arc de Triumph, Concorde Square, the Invalides, the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadero, the Opera, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum, Madeleine Church, and many others. Conclude with a trip down the River Seine. On the following day, you and your companions will embark on a full-day tour of Versailles including tours of the palace and accompanying small castles. Conclude your stay in The City of Lights with a guided tour of the Louvre museum, home to countless masterpieces of the art world.

Next, head via rail to Avignon, where you’ll check in for a two-night stay. You’ll have plenty of time to explore the region at leisure. In this so-called “City of Popes”, must-see sights include the Papal Palace, Notre Dame des Doms, City Hall, the Calvet Museum, and several small churches and lovely bridges, including Pont d’Avignon, subject of a famous children’s song.

Upon leaving Avignon, head to Arles via rental car. During your two-night stay, explore the city at your leisure. In Arles, the Roman and Romanesque monuments have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Look for the remains of the Roman theater, the amphitheater, the Roman necropolis, the Arles Obelisk, and many others. Also notable is the Church of Trophime, known for its stunning Romanesque architecture. The local museum of ancient history is also excellent.

Next, you’ll drive to Gordes and check in for a two-night stay. Partially situated in the Monts de Vaucluse, Gordes is home to a number of notable sights including the Romanesque Sénanque Abbey and the Village of Bories, consisting of well-preserved ancient houses made of stone.

Continue your tour with a visit to Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, a commune at the center of France’s pottery industry. Clinging to the side of a limestone cliff, it’s home to less than 700 residents but is an ideal location for a relaxing one-night stay and a little sightseeing. Take a guided tour for the best overview of the town.

Finally, make your way via automobile to Monte Carlo, Monaco. Your half-day tour of the region will include some of the area’s most famous sights including the palace, the cathedral and the Formula One racing circuit, as well as the famous casino. You’ll also visit the village of Eze, where you can watch the town’s famous perfume makers at work. Use your free time to stroll through the city and maybe even try your hand at the slots or table games.