Country Roads of France - Small Group
Country Roads of France - Small Group
$7595
Country Roads of France - Small Group
16 Days Starting and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Paris, Dijon, Chamonix, Annecy, Nice, Aix-en-Provence, Avignon, Carcassonne, Albi, Cahors, Dordogne Valley
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SE723ZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an enchanting journey through the picturesque landscapes and cultural treasures of France and Monaco with the "Country Roads of France - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the vibrant streets of Paris to the serene beauty of the French Riviera, offering a blend of historical exploration and modern luxury. Discover the medieval charm of Dijon, the alpine allure of Chamonix, and the artistic haven of Saint-Paul-de-Vence. Delight in authentic dining experiences, including a farm-to-table dinner in La Roque-Gageac and a Champagne tasting in Troyes. Explore iconic landmarks such as the Prince's Palace in Monaco, the Pont du Gard, and the UNESCO-listed Carcassonne fortress. Travel in comfort aboard a luxurious coach, with ample legroom and complimentary Wi-Fi, while staying in exquisite accommodations throughout your journey. This tour promises a rich tapestry of experiences, from the bustling markets of Cahors to the romantic allure of Paris, ensuring a memorable adventure through the heart of France.
Highlights
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: 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: Annecy
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: 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
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: 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: Avignon
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: Carcassonne
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: Cahors
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: Dordogne Valley
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: 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.
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 transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides transportation aboard Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach, which offers double the standard legroom and an onboard washroom. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available on the coach, and physical distancing measures are implemented.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 7 dinners with wine and 15 breakfasts.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect on this tour?
The tour includes stays in luxurious accommodations such as 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.
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What unique experiences are offered during the tour?
Unique experiences include a visit to a perfumery in Eze to learn about the French perfume industry, a lesson in the French sport of pétanque in Saint-Paul-de-Vence, and a visit to the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco.
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Is there any focus on sustainable travel during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes a visit to the Fabre family winery in Luc-sur-Orbieu, where you will learn about the production of biodynamic wines, supporting the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals for responsible consumption and production.
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Are there any optional experiences available on the tour?
Yes, optional experiences include a Burgundy wine tasting and traditional dinner in Fixin, a visit to the medieval village of Eze, and a cabaret show in Paris.
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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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