Highlights of Paris Normandy and the Loire Valley

Highlights of Paris Normandy and the Loire Valley

49 Views
8 Days From

$1574

Highlights of Paris Normandy and the Loire Valley

8 Days Starting in Paris, France and ending in Amboise, France

Visiting: Paris, Normandy, Rennes, Loire Valley

Tour operator:

Indus Travels

Tour code:

IndTur719

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 35

Physical rating:

Easy

Tour operated in:

English
From: $1574

NB: Prices correct on 10-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on an unforgettable journey through France with the "Highlights of Paris, Normandy, and the Loire Valley" tour. Begin in the romantic city of Paris, exploring iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Discover the opulence of the Palace of Versailles and delve into WWII history at Arromanches. Marvel at the Abbey of Mont St. Michel and Monet's house in Giverny. Wander through the enchanting Villandry gardens and the majestic Chenonceau castle in the Loire Valley. Experience the charm of Amboise, home to King Charles VIII's castle, and enjoy comfortable accommodations, daily breakfasts, and a delightful dinner in Amboise. Travel in style with an air-conditioned deluxe motor coach and expert bilingual guides.

Highlights

  • Travel to Paris, the capital city of France; visit the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral

  • Explore the Palace of Versailles, home to royalty, and a major landmark in French history

  • Learn about the significant landings that took place in WWII with a trip to Arromanches

  • Visit the Abbey of Mont St. Michel, a World Heritage Site and major tourist attraction

  • Discover Monet's house in Giverny

  • Stroll through the Villandry gardens in Loire Valley

  • Visit the Chenonceau castle in Loire Valley

  • Explore Amboise, famous for its castle, the 15th-century residence of King Charles VIII

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Paris Arrival

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: hotel

Welcome to Paris! Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, you will be met by a local representative and transferred to your hotel. After check-in, spend the rest of the day at leisure to settle down or explore the city on your own.




Overnight in Paris

Day 2: Paris (B/-/-)

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will embark on a scenic guided tour to discover the history, main boulevards, and breathtaking monuments of Paris including the Eiffel Tour, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Arc of Triomphe. You will get to walk along the Seine River, Les Champs Elysees, and more. Later, you will be transferred to the Montmartre district. This neighborhood is known for its painters, artists, and cabarets. Perhaps you may consider sitting on a terrace for lunch and enjoy the breathtaking views of the city and water. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.




Overnight in Paris

Day 3: Paris – Versailles – Paris (B/-/-)

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, prepare yourself for a regal and magnificent experience. The world-famous Chateau de Versailles awaits you as the Grand Palace of France. Highlights include the Hall of Mirrors, the site of the signing of the treaty that ended World War I, and a magnificent view over the gardens and The Kings State Apartments. You may also see the bedrooms of King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette. The architecture and landscaped gardens are unique masterpieces waiting to be discovered. Uncover the major monument of French history before returning to Paris where you may spend the rest of the day at leisure for sightseeing, shopping, and anything else you please.




Overnight in Paris

Day 4: Paris – Giverny – Normandy (Rouen – Arromanches – Caen) (B/-/-)

Location: Normandy

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Prepare for an early morning departure from Paris. You will travel towards the Normandy area, situated on the Northwest coast of France. En route, you will stop in Giverny and take the opportunity to visit the house of Monet, the famous impressionist painter, and its impressive gardens which served as a major source of inspiration for many masterpieces. From there, you will travel to Rouen, the capital of Normandy with medieval streets and cathedrals, just in time for lunch. Continue your journey to Arromanches. It is on these beaches where the D-Day landings of Allies took place, which put an end to the Second World War and Nazi occupation in France. After this emotional stop by the sea full of history, you will continue your tour to Caen. Enjoy free time to stroll around the city center if you wish.




Overnight in Caen

Day 5: Normandy (Caen – Mont St Michel) – Brittany (St Malo – Dinan – Rennes) (B/-/-)

Location: Rennes

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today you will visit the Mont St. Michel, the second most visited monument in France, after the Eiffel Tower in Paris. The Mont St. Michel has not been changed for centuries as the town is built on a rock which is at times an island. Walk down the narrow streets and climb the stairs up to the Abbey. After this active morning, you will continue your tour to Saint-Malo, an authentic medieval city with its powerful fortifications and cobbled streets. After lunch, walk through the charming village of Dinan, before arriving in Rennes where you will spend the rest of the day.




Overnight in Rennes

Day 6: Rennes – Angers – Loire (Tours – Villandry – Amboise) (B/-/D)

Location: Loire Valley

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Get ready to jump back to medieval times when castles served as actual homes for the Aristocracy. You will start your day in Angers, where you may visit the castle, home to the largest medieval tapestry in the world. From there we will travel to the Loire Valley area, starting with Tours, the regional capital on the banks of the Loire River. You may walk around the city and discover excellent restaurants for lunch. In the afternoon you will visit the Villandry Palace, famous for its splendid gardens. Each owner, including Jean Le Breton, the Marquis de Castellane, Ambassador of Louis XV and Jerome Bonaparte, brother of Napoleon contributed to making Villandry one of the most beautiful castles on the Loire. Continue your epic castle tours to Amboise, where you will discover the Castle of Clos Luce which served as the residence for French Kings from the 15th to 19th centuries. Several literary figures and artists were invited here, including Leonardo da Vinci who lived here for the last 3 years of his life. His tomb remains preserved at the château. From the balconies, roofs, and terraced gardens of this royal palace, visitors can take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Loire.




Overnight and Dinner in Amboise



*Note: depending on the season, your accommodation may be in Tours.

Day 7: Loire (Amboise – Chenonceau – Chambord) – Paris (B/-/-)

Location: Paris

Accommodation Name: hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, you will start your day with a walking tour through Amboise. Make a stop at the statue of Leonardo Da Vinci on the island of the Loire. From there, continue your tour towards two major and impressive castles built during the Renaissance period. Discover the Castle of Chenonceau, in the shape of a bridge over the river, which is one of the most romantic castles to visit and boasts an impressive museum collection. From there, discover Chambord Castle, the largest of the castles on the Loire with its extravagant dimensions and 426 rooms, 282 fireplaces, and 77 staircases. It is difficult to decide which is more impressive, between the castle or the magnificent French gardens inspired by the Versailles Castles Garden. After this historic experience, we will continue the tour to Paris. Arrive in Paris around 06:00 PM.




Overnight in Paris

Day 8: Paris (B/-/-)

Location: Paris

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will make your own way to the international airport in Paris to prepare for your flight back home.

What's Included

  • 07 nights accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar

    Enjoy comfortable stays at well-appointed hotels throughout the tour.

  • Daily breakfast

    Start each day with a delicious breakfast included in your package.

  • 01 Dinner in Amboise

    Savor a delightful dinner in the historic town of Amboise.

  • Arrival airport transfer in Paris

    Convenient transfer from Charles de Gaulle Airport to your hotel upon arrival.

  • Transportation in an AC deluxe motor coach

    Travel comfortably in an air-conditioned deluxe motor coach.

  • Service of Bilingual/English-speaking tour guides

    Benefit from the expertise of bilingual or English-speaking tour guides.

  • Sightseeing as per the itinerary

    Explore various attractions and landmarks as outlined in the itinerary.

  • City tour in Paris

    Discover the iconic sights of Paris including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and more.

  • Monet's house in Giverny

    Visit the house and gardens of the famous impressionist painter, Monet, in Giverny.

  • Villandry gardens in Loire Valley

    Explore the splendid gardens of the Villandry Palace in the Loire Valley.

show more

What's Not Included

  • Items of a personal nature, tips, and gratuities

    Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • Departure airport transfer

    Transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included.

  • Visa fees if applicable

    Visa fees, if required, are not included in the tour package.

  • Items not mentioned as included

    Any items or services not specifically mentioned as included are excluded from the tour package.

Mode of Transport

Travel in comfort with transportation provided in an air-conditioned deluxe motor coach, including an arrival airport transfer in Paris.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, with daily breakfast and one dinner in Amboise.

Videos

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of transportation is provided during the tour?

    Transportation is provided in an air-conditioned deluxe motor coach, including an arrival airport transfer in Paris.

  • What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?

    You will enjoy 7 nights of comfortable accommodation on a twin-sharing basis at listed hotels or similar, with daily breakfast and one dinner in Amboise.

  • Are meals included in the tour package?

    Yes, daily breakfast is included, and there is one dinner provided in Amboise.

  • Will there be a tour guide during the trip?

    Yes, the service of bilingual or English-speaking tour guides is included in the tour package.

  • Is the entrance fee to the Palace of Versailles included?

    No, the entrance fee to the Palace of Versailles is not included in the tour package.

  • What historical sites related to WWII will we visit?

    You will visit Arromanches, where the D-Day landings of the Allies took place, which put an end to the Second World War and Nazi occupation in France.

  • Will we have free time to explore on our own?

    Yes, there are several opportunities for leisure time throughout the tour, including the first day in Paris, the afternoon in Versailles, and free time in Caen.

  • What are some of the major landmarks we will visit in Paris?

    In Paris, you will visit the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Arc of Triomphe, and the Montmartre district.

  • What is the highlight of the visit to Mont St. Michel?

    The highlight of the visit to Mont St. Michel is walking down the narrow streets and climbing the stairs up to the Abbey, which is a major tourist attraction and a World Heritage Site.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Monet's house in Giverny?

    During the visit to Monet's house in Giverny, you will see the house and gardens that served as a major source of inspiration for many of Monet's masterpieces.

  • What are some of the castles we will visit in the Loire Valley?

    In the Loire Valley, you will visit the Villandry Palace, Chenonceau Castle, and Chambord Castle, each known for their unique architecture and historical significance.

  • Is the departure airport transfer included in the tour package?

    No, the departure airport transfer is not included in the tour package.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.

  • If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

    You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.

  • Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?

    In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.

Reviews of this operator

Terry Kratz (Google Reviewer)  

Thanks to Indus and Nicko...

13-Sep-2024

Thanks to Indus and Nicko Cruise for a great trip down the Danube. I had not been on a river cruise prior to this and found it a very relaxing way to travel and see some European highlights. The ship was superb. The staff served great meals, were friendly and accommodating. As far as the tours and city visits, they all gave us a reasonable amount of time and insight into the location we were visiting to come away with a sense that we had a good glimpse of the city and were able to spend some free time in the city as well. A special thanks to Dhruv our fearless leader from Indus who was a great organizer. Lastly - nice to meet all of you in our group. terry

Joyce Elyse Baumbach  

The tour organized by Indus Travels ...

16-Dec-2022

The tour organized by Indus Travels was flawless. Hotels, tours, and transportation all impressed me. We had a very relaxing time knowing what was happening at each stage. The scenery and activities were fantastic and did not disappoint. The highlight of the trip was definitely Galapagos Islands.

Indus Travel Reviews
Sirjirick Gibson (Google Reviewer)  

This is my fourth Indus...

20-Aug-2024

This is my fourth Indus trip coming up. I love the way the app works. I love the way the trips are organized and small groupings. I love the accommodations. I love the transportation it’s just top-notch service for individual traveler. I just completed my fourth trip with This and I have already signed up for my up-and-coming fifth trip with Indus travel. Once again, I have to say the service of this is absolutely top-notch service. I am so grateful to have this opportunity to travel and style and comfort. The organization of this is top-notch service from start to finish.. I have to say this sales management and associate team is absolutely amazing which basically allows me to continuously book my trips through end this. My travel life is to travel to as many countries as possible, and it will all be done through excellent job. I would like to give a special thanks to Rachel P. And Ravi., I have been involved with Rachel for the past five years and I will continue to travel within due to the fact that she makes this such a pleasant experience. Great job to her..

Neeraj Nauhwaar (Google Reviewer)  

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with...

07-Dec-2023

Booked Mystical Egypt tour with them visiting Cairo and a 03 Nights Cruise from Luxor to Aswan in May. All services were perfect since the time we arrived at the airport, we were met by a hospitable Indus Representative who helped us with the purchase of local SIM and currency exchange. He was always there in time to assist for transfers. The Amwaj Cruise which we took from Luxor to Aswan was a Gem. We had great guides and all sightseeing worked like a clockwork. We enjoyed visiting Karnak Temples, Temples of Edfu, Kom Ombo and the boat ride to see Phillae Temple. Evening entertainment on cruise were great and engaging. In Cairo and Aswan, we had ample leisure time to explore on own, the Pyramids were impressive and visiting Khan e Khalili was fun. Overall and impressive and enjoyable tour, Thanks to Indus Travels!

Dhruv R (Google Reviewer)  

Recently went on a Rhine...

09-Jun-2023

Recently went on a Rhine River Cruise, a first for me. I must say the experience was exceptional, their tagline says. The group I was with were some of the most fun and interesting set of people I've ever traveled with. The ground transportation arrangements were top notch and comfortable. Variety in menu that we were provided with in the cruise was astounding. I was a bit worried if they'd have much options for me as I'm a vegetarian. But they not only had options, the taste was something I'd savor for foreseeable future. There's a reason Rhine cruises are popular owing to it's serene and picturesque route. Guided tours were very informative and gave us a bit of an insight of German culture. We had good amount of time to explore the towns on our own too. Strasbourg and Cochem were my favorite stops. Luckily the weather worked in our favour and it didn't rain the way it was predicted originally. No one from our group wanted the tour to end. If this trip was any indication, I can't wait to book my next trip with Indus Travels.

Dennis V (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I travelled...

02-Jul-2024

My wife and I travelled with Indus on the essentials Portugal Spain Switzerland and Italy tour last October and had the time of our lives. The tour was very well planned we visited a lot of the highlights the countries had to offer. The tour went very smoothly with knowledgeable guides and courteous drivers. We would highly recommend travelling with Indus.

Gloria Parra (Google Reviewer)  

Indus Travel runs a highly...

04-Mar-2024

Indus Travel runs a highly professional organization. From customer service to brochures, bookings, tour guides, etc. and the consideration for their customers is superb. This was the first time I had travelled with Indus Travels. We took the Taste of Portugal Tour. Group numbers are small, accommodation comfortable and food excellent. The expert guide who accompanied us was outstanding - passionate, informative, engaging, and entertaining. This company is obviously at the heart of the itinerary planning, and attention to detail is second to none. I would highly recommend this company to anyone wanting a fun, relaxed, educational vacation with fine food - they will deliver! We will never forget this trip and we are already planning for another one to Wonders of Italy, Vienna, Budapest, and Prague.

Olivia  

Best of Italy

16-Nov-2022

Indus Travels did an excellent job planning the trip to Italy. We were on Best of Italy in Oct 2022. The tour was 5 stars all the way. The hotel accommodations were comfortable and clean & guides were top-notch.

Indus Travel Reviews
Kim Eisnor (Google Reviewer)  

We had an absolutely amazing...

12-Sep-2024

We had an absolutely amazing experience on our first ever river boat cruise. The itinerary and ports were incredible, the ship was beautiful, the food was great (especially Mario’s Grill), the excursions were excellent and the staff was lovely. We had such a memorable trip with our group and made lots of memories that will last a lifetime.

DJWalter Capote (Google Reviewer)  

We were looking for a...

07-Oct-2023

We were looking for a customized, small group tour. We took a chance on Indus without knowing much about the company. We just returned from our trip to Greece and are more than highly please and satisfied with our experience. They planned an amazing itinerary, booked amazing hotels, hired knowledgeable tour guides and arranged high quality transportation services. Everyone went above and beyond to please us. We are already planning a trip for next year (2024) and will definitely use Indus to do so.

1 Select your preferred date

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 02, 2025 - Mar 09, 2025
$1574

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$1627

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025
$1679

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 27, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 27, 2025 - May 04, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

May 04, 2025 - May 11, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

May 11, 2025 - May 18, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

May 18, 2025 - May 25, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

May 25, 2025 - Jun 01, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 01, 2025 - Jun 08, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 08, 2025 - Jun 15, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 15, 2025 - Jun 22, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 22, 2025 - Jun 29, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jun 29, 2025 - Jul 06, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 06, 2025 - Jul 13, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 13, 2025 - Jul 20, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 20, 2025 - Jul 27, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Jul 27, 2025 - Aug 03, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 03, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 10, 2025 - Aug 17, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 17, 2025 - Aug 24, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 24, 2025 - Aug 31, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Aug 31, 2025 - Sep 07, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 14, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 14, 2025 - Sep 21, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 28, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Sep 28, 2025 - Oct 05, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 05, 2025 - Oct 12, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 19, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 19, 2025 - Oct 26, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Oct 26, 2025 - Nov 02, 2025
$1732

Sunday - Sunday

Nov 02, 2025 - Nov 09, 2025
$1627

Sunday - Sunday

Feb 08, 2026 - Feb 15, 2026
$1574

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 01, 2026 - Mar 08, 2026
$1627

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 15, 2026 - Mar 22, 2026
$1627
Prices last published on 08-Nov-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.

    Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Enquire for huge savings

Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.

By submitting this form, I accept Travel Club Elites terms & conditions and privacy policy.

Similar Tours