Country Roads of France - Small Group
Country Roads of France - Small Group
$7825
Country Roads of France - Small Group
16 Days Starting and ending in Paris
Visiting: Paris, Troyes, Dijon, Chamonix, Annecy, Grenoble, Nice, Monaco City, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Pont du Gard, Avignon, Luc-sur-Orbieu, Carcassonne, Albi, Cahors, Rocamadour, La Roque-Gageac, Lascaux, Sarlat-la-Caneda
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE723ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishInterests:
Tour Overview
Consider this your ‘Tour de France’ — a 16-day guided tour that embraces the best of the country, from fortified towns and fine wines. Drive along the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco, stopping to step inside its cathedral, where Princess Grace has been laid to rest. In St Paul de Vence, play pétanque, a bocce-like sport, then celebrate your new skills with a fine French aperitif. Travel to Carcassonne, a fortified city complete with ramparts and a medieval keep. Drive through the Valley of the Dordogne, then feast on a farm-to-table dinner paired with regional wine. In Paris, embrace the City of Light’s most beloved sites: marvel at the Eiffel Tower, gaze at Louvre's glorious facades, and be driven down the posh Champs Elysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe.
Choice Highlights
- Monaco City: Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace.
- Monaco City: Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Admire grand aquariums of the Mediterranean and tropical seas, and gain insight into the challenges of scientific research in Polar environments.
Top Rated Highlights
- Dijon: Explore Dijon with your Travel Director to learn all about the history of this fascinating city, famous for its mustard and wines.
- Chamonix: Explore the city's charming streets set against a backdrop of the stunning French Alps.
- Annecy: Enjoy free time in the Little Venice area.
- Nice: Enjoy exploring the beautiful coastal town of Nice on the French Riviera.
- Eze: Visit a perfumery to learn about the French perfume industry and discover your signature scent.
- Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.
- Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbor.
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Discover the beauty of this hilltop town and why it became a refuge for artists.
- Aix-en-Provence: See the mansions of the Cours Mirabeau, a lively thoroughfare in Aix-en-Provence.
- Pont du Gard: See the ancient Roman bridge that crosses the Gardon River.
- Avignon: View the Pont d'Avignon and walk the medieval narrow streets of the Old Town to the Palais des Papes.
- Cite de Carcassone: Enjoy an orientation of this fortified town and see the fortress, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Albi: This is the birthplace of artist, Toulouse-Lautrec. Walk the town and marvel at the awe-inspiring cathedral.
- Montignac: These caves contain some of the oldest and finest prehistoric art in the world. For preservation reasons, they have been replicated in all their glory.
- Paris: Experience the magic of Paris with Insight Vacations as you explore its iconic sights, landmarks, and charming streets. Meander along the picturesque banks of the River Seine, delving into the rich history of its beautiful bridges and renowned landmarks, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe. Whether from the comfort of your coach or a scenic vantage point, immerse yourself in the timeless stories that bring this enchanting city to life.
Make Travel Matter
Luc-sur-Orbieu: The Fabre family has been producing wine since the 17th Century. At the heart of their passion lies a strong commitment to protect the natural environment of the region and produce complex yet sustainable wines. Learn about the production of biodynamic wines during your visit to the family-run winery. This experience advances United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 12: Responsible Consumption and Production.
Authentic Dining
Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
Troyes: Journey through the Champagne region and stop for a tasting of renowned Champagne wine.
Grenoble: Enjoy a delicious dinner in Grenoble.
Cahors: See the Pont Valentré as you enjoy a tasting through the markets.
La Roque-Gageac: Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table dinner prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.
Paris: Rendezvous with your newfound friends at La Coupole for a rousing dinner with wine.
Insight Choice
Monaco City: Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace.
Monaco City: Visit the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco. Admire grand aquariums of the Mediterranean and tropical seas, and gain insight into the challenges of scientific research in Polar environments.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Paris
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Chicago
Accommodation Name: Marriott Rive Gauche, Paris
Meals Included: Dinner
Meet your Travel Director and fellow guests at the hotel before joining a Welcome Dinner at a classic local restaurant with cuisine inspired by country recipes.
Day 2: Champagne Region And On To Dijon
Location: Paris, Troyes, Dijon
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche, Dijon.
Accommodation Name: Grand Dijon La Cloche
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey through the vine-clad scenery of the Champagne region. Admire the green shoots in spring, full summer foliage or the russet autumnal hues, this is a glorious region throughout the year. Visit the city of Troyes and admire its medieval Old Town with its colorful half-timbered houses while sipping a glass of champagne. On arrival in Dijon, an orientation by your Travel Director reveals the charming architecture and history of the city.
Day 3: Free Time In Dijon Relaxed Start
Location: Dijon
Accommodation: Grand Hotel Dijon La Cloche, Dijon.
Accommodation Name: Grand Dijon La Cloche
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy the Burgundy capital of Dijon. Its many handsome buildings recall the time when the Dukes of Burgundy were more powerful than the Kings of France. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune? In the evening, don't miss the chance of an optional Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in the Premier Cru village of Fixin.
Day 4: Chamonix
Location: Chamonix
Accommodation: Alpina Eclectic Hotel Chamonix.
Accommodation Name: Alpina Eclectic Chamonix
Meals Included: Breakfast
A scenic symphony awaits you as you ascend into the high Alps and climb towards Mont Blanc, Western Europe’s highest mountain. Your destination is the fashionable ski resort of Chamonix. You could take in panoramic views of the mountain peaks and valley below from the Chamonix cable car or explore this mountain resort. In the evening you may choose to try a pierrade at a local trendy eatery in a traditional chalet. This Optional Experience provides the chance to try a typical regional meal, cooked on a traditional table barbecue.
Day 5: Lakeside Annecy And Grenoble Relaxed Start
Location: Chamonix, Annecy, Grenoble
Accommodation: Park Hôtel Grenoble-MGallery.
Accommodation Name: Le Grand, BW Premier Collection
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning, embark on a beautiful journey to the lakeside town of Annecy, dramatically situated between lake and mountains, it's a medieval spectacle and a summer getaway for the French and the Swiss locals. Enjoy free time for lunch in Little Venice, aptly named for the network of canals criss-crossing through the Old Town. Explore the city’s many lovely bridges at your leisure. Continue on to your hotel in Grenoble. This evening, savor a delicious dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 6: The French Riviera To Reach Nice
Location: Grenoble, Nice
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Glorious mountain scenery will be yours to enjoy as you travel along a spectacular route, used by the Emperor Napoleon when he returned from his first exile to try to take the throne of France once more. Continue through Provence to the French Riviera to reach the elegant resort of Nice. The rest of the afternoon is free for you to explore as you wish. In the evening, why not walk through old town Nice, ending in Cours Saleya where dinner is at your leisure at one of the many lovely bistros?
Day 7: Nice And The Principality Of Monaco
Location: Nice, Monaco City, Nice
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Hotel, Nice.
Accommodation Name: Radisson Blu, Nice
Meals Included: Breakfast
Wake up ready to rub shoulders with the jet-set on the glamorous Côte d’Azur. Unlock the secrets of the French perfume industry with a visit to a perfumery, where fragrance experts waft exclusive scents from stoppered bottles. Then enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit in Monaco and with Insight Choice enter the Oceanographic Museum dedicated to the concept of the Mediterranean Science Commission or visit the Royal Palace of Monaco and see Monaco Cathedral, housing the tomb of Princess Grace. The rest of the day is set aside for you to enjoy the French Riviera at your own pace. Perhaps join an Optional Experience to visit the medieval village of Eze and its hill-top Botanical Gardens for a spectacular view of the coastline?
Day 8: Picturesque Provence
Location: Nice, Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Aix-en-Provence
Accommodation: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence.
Accommodation Name: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, perched high above the Riviera beaches. A walk through its winding streets reveals elegant fountains, vine-covered stone walls and views of mountains and sea. Enjoy a lesson in the French sport of pétanque. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills as you take part in a game, completed by a glass of pastis, a French apéritif. Continue to Aix-en-Provence to see the sumptuous mansions lining the Cours Mirabeau and on to your hotel.
Day 9: Avignon And Pont Du Gard
Location: Aix-en-Provence, Arles, Pont du Gard, Avignon, Aix-en-Provence
Accommodation: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence.
Accommodation Name: Aquabella Hotel & Spa, Aix-en-Provence
Meals Included: Breakfast
Artistic Arles and the immense Pont du Gard feature en route to Avignon.
Day 10: Carcassonne And To Albi
Location: Aix-en-Provence, Luc-sur-Orbieu, Carcassonne, Albi
Accommodation: Hôtel Saint Antoine, Albi.
Accommodation Name: Saint Antoine, Albi
Meals Included: Breakfast
A scenic drive through the Alpilles takes you to Chateau De Luc, for a wine tasting and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Cross the fertile Languedoc region, before journeying inland to the fortified town of Carcassonne. Travelers are often amazed at their first sight of this medieval gem, known for its fortress - a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with a complete set of ramparts and a medieval keep. Travel to Albi, the birthplace of Toulouse Lautrec. During your orientation with your Travel Director, marvel at iconic sites including the views of Toulouse Lautrec Museum and the famous awe-inspiring cathedral, before spending the remainder of the day at leisure.
Day 11: Free Time In Albi Relaxed Start
Location: Albi
Accommodation: Hôtel Saint Antoine, Albi.
Accommodation Name: Saint Antoine, Albi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a full day at leisure, to relax and soak up the atmosphere of Albi. This evening savor a delicious dinner of carefully selected fresh ingredients, at a local restaurant.
Day 12: Cahors And Rocamadour Relaxed Start
Location: Albi, Cahors, Rocamadour, La Roque-Gageac
Accommodation: Hotel Le Perigord
Accommodation Name: Le Perigord, La Roque-Gageac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Stop in Cahors, famous for its Black Wine, and see the Pont Valentré. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the open air market - full of fresh, seasonal produce and local delicacies, it's an experience to delight all of the senses. Travel to Rocamadour and enjoy free time to explore this medieval town perched on a cliffside above the Alzou River and known as a resting place for pilgrims traveling through France on the Camino de Santiago to Spain. Enjoy a delicious Farm-to-Table Dinner, prepared with locally sourced ingredients and served with wines from the region.
Day 13: Exploring The Dordogne Valley
Location: Lascaux, Sarlat-la-Caneda, La Roque-Gageac
Accommodation: Hotel Le Perigord
Accommodation Name: Le Perigord, La Roque-Gageac
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Start the day with a morning drive into the Valley of the Dordogne to visit Lascaux II, where the world-famous prehistoric cave paintings have been faithfully reproduced. Continue to the beautiful town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, its medieval core blessed with fine golden limestone houses. Relax this evening in the beautiful surroundings of the Dordogne region while you dine at the hotel.
Day 14: Paris, The City Of Light
Location: La Roque-Gageac, Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Travel onwards to immerse yourself in the beautiful city of Paris where on arrival you are free to explore this fascinating city as you wish. As evening descends, the City of Light lives up to its name as the monuments, buildings and bridges are lit up in all their glory. For that special touch of excitement and glamour don't miss the chance to join an Optional Experience to one of the world-famous cabaret shows.
Day 15: Romantic Capital On The Seine
Location: Paris
Accommodation: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris.
Accommodation Name: Le Méridien Etoile, Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the Luxor obelisk in the center of the Place de la Concorde and enjoy a drive along the Champs Élysées to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. You are in for a memorable evening with a delicious dinner of excellent French cuisine and wine to toast your journey through France.
Day 16: Au Revoir Paris
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, bid farewell to your journey through the French countryside as you transfer to the airport.
What's Included
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Meals
7 dinners with wine and 15 breakfasts are included.
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Monaco City Tour
Admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace, visit the Oceanographic Museum, explore Monaco Cathedral, and enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit.
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Personal Radio Headsets
Personal radio headsets are provided to give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights without missing any of your Local Expert's commentary.
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Hotel and Restaurant Tips
Hotel and restaurant tips are included, so you won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
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Porterage
We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
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Insight Flourish
From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, a local specialty representing the destination.
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Wi-Fi
Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
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Transfers
Transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates.
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Luxury Coach
Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom.
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Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
What's Not Included
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Optional Experiences
Optional experiences such as a Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in Fixin, a visit to the medieval village of Eze, and a cabaret show in Paris are not included.
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Additional Transfers
If your flights are outside the scheduled times, or you have booked additional nights' accommodation, you may need to purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Mode of Transport
Travel in comfort aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi are available, and physical distancing measures are implemented.
Accommodation
Stay in luxurious accommodations including the Marriott Rive Gauche in Paris, Grand Dijon La Cloche in Dijon, Alpina Eclectic Chamonix, Radisson Blu in Nice, Aquabella Hotel & Spa in Aix-en-Provence, Saint Antoine in Albi, and Le Perigord in La Roque-Gageac.
Dining Summary
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert's fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included - you'll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Insight Experiences
- Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Join a pétanque player to learn the secrets behind this traditional French discipline. Steady your hand and get ready to test your newfound skills in a game. End with a glass of pastis, a French apéritif.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of meals are included in the tour?
The tour includes 15 breakfasts and 7 dinners with wine. These meals are provided at various locations throughout the tour, including local restaurants and hotels.
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Are hotel and restaurant tips included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel and restaurant tips are included in the tour price. You won't have to worry about how much to give or search for foreign currency.
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Is there Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach and at the hotels where you will be staying, subject to availability.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation in a luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. The coaches are sanitized before the start of the tour and maintained to very high standards.
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Are airport transfers included in the tour?
Airport transfers are available at scheduled times if your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights' accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
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What kind of activities are included in Monaco?
In Monaco, you will have the opportunity to admire the Italian Renaissance frescoes and State Apartments of the Prince's Palace, visit the Oceanographic Museum, explore Monaco Cathedral, and enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit.
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What unique experiences are offered in Saint-Paul-de-Vence?
In Saint-Paul-de-Vence, you will join a pétanque player to learn the secrets behind this traditional French discipline. You will also get to test your newfound skills in a game and end with a glass of pastis, a French apéritif.
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience in Luc-sur-Orbieu?
In Luc-sur-Orbieu, you will visit the Fabre family winery, which has been producing wine since the 17th century. You will learn about the production of biodynamic wines and the family's commitment to protecting the natural environment of the region.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Dordogne Valley?
In the Dordogne Valley, you will visit Lascaux II to see faithfully reproduced prehistoric cave paintings, explore the medieval town of Sarlat-la-Canéda, and enjoy a dinner at the hotel in the beautiful surroundings of the Dordogne region.
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What are some of the highlights in Paris during the tour?
In Paris, you will explore iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower, the Luxor obelisk in the Place de la Concorde, and the Champs-Élysées leading to Napoleon's Arc de Triomphe. You will also have the opportunity to enjoy a delightful dinner with wine and possibly join an optional experience to a world-famous cabaret show.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Jul 26, 2025 - Aug 10, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Insight Vacations requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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