On the trail of French Impressionist masters

Paris

Tag 1: Bienvenue en France

Welcome to France! Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport, your private driver will greet you and transfer you to your hotel, perfectly situated in the heart of Paris.

The rest of the day is yours to explore the City of Light at your own pace, whether strolling along the Seine, relaxing in a charming café, or visiting iconic landmarks. Let the magic of Paris set the tone for this artistic adventure.

Paris

Tag 2: First immersion into Impressionist delights

Dive deep into the world of Impressionist art with an exclusive guided journey through Paris’s iconic collections. Start your day with a skip-the-line tour of the Musée d'Orsay, a stunning former train station from 1900, now home to some of the greatest masterpieces of Impressionism. As you explore, your guide will unveil the fascinating stories behind the works of artists like Manet, Monet, Renoir, and Degas. 

Next, head to the nearby Musée de l'Orangerie at your own pace, entering effortlessly through reserved access. Nestled in the serene Tuileries Garden, this intimate museum houses Claude Monet’s breathtaking 'Water Lilies' series and a remarkable collection of works by Cézanne, Matisse, Modigliani, and Picasso. Take your time to absorb the vibrant colors and bold brushstrokes that forever changed the art world.

Paris - giverny - Paris

Tag 3: Witness paintings coming to life

Today, journey into the heart of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism. Begin your adventure in the charming village of Giverny, where you'll explore Claude Monet’s magical gardens, including his famous Clos Normand and serene Japanese water gardens. Wander through the very scenes that inspired his iconic water lily paintings, complete with graceful willow trees and the bridge that has become a symbol of his art.

In the afternoon, delve into the world of Vincent van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise, where the artist spent his final months. Discover the boarding house where Van Gogh lived and walk through the fields and streets that inspired some of his most famous works, including 'Wheat Field with Crows' and the haunting 'Church of Auvers'. End the day with a poignant visit to Van Gogh’s simple, ivy-covered grave, reflecting on the life and legacy of this extraordinary artist.

Paris

Tag 4: View Monet's masterpieces

Immerse yourself in the world of Claude Monet and the Impressionists with a skip-the-line visit to the Marmottan Monet Museum, home to the largest collection of Monet's works. Marvel at his masterpieces, from Impression, Sunrise to his iconic water lilies, alongside personal items like sketchbooks and letters that offer a glimpse into his creative process. The museum also showcases works by other Impressionist greats such as Morisot, Caillebotte, Renoir, Degas, and Manet. The evening is yours to relax or continue exploring the wonders of Paris.

Paris

Tag 5: Trace the steps of the impressionists in Montmartre

Explore the vibrant artistic history of Montmartre, where Impressionist legends like Renoir, Manet, Degas, and Pissarro once thrived. Begin your day at Montmartre Cemetery, visiting Degas’ final resting place, and follow in the footsteps of these iconic artists through the neighborhood's cafes and landmarks, including the famous Moulin Rouge.

At the Musée de Montmartre, discover a rich collection of paintings, posters, and drawings that capture the bohemian spirit of the area. In the afternoon, stroll through the serene Renoir Gardens, where Auguste Renoir painted masterpieces such as The Moulin de la Galette Ball. Enjoy panoramic views of Montmartre's vineyard and the cityscape of northern Paris before concluding your day.

Paris - Rouen - Paris

Tag 6: A day trip from Paris to Rouen

After breakfast, embark on a scenic train ride from Paris to Rouen Rive Droite, where a day of artistic discovery awaits. Begin at the Musée des Beaux Arts, a hidden treasure that showcases an impressive collection of Impressionist works by masters like Monet, Sisley, and Renoir.

Next, enjoy a private walking tour through Rouen's medieval streets, where the city's Gothic cathedral once inspired Monet, Pissarro, and Sisley. Explore the same historic landmarks that sparked their creativity.

After a day steeped in art and history, return to Paris for one final evening in the City of Lights.

Paris - Avignon

Tag 7: A scenic train ride to Avignon

After breakfast and checking out of your hotel, embark on a scenic train journey from Paris to the historic city of Avignon. Upon arrival, settle into your new hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, taking time to explore the charming streets, medieval architecture, and vibrant atmosphere of this beautiful Provençal town.

Avignon

Tag 8: Experience Van Gogh's provence

Today, immerse yourself in the world of Vincent van Gogh as you explore his artistic legacy. Begin your journey in Arles, a city that captivated the renowned artist, where you'll join a small-group tour to uncover its rich history and Van Gogh's personal connections to it.

Next, visit the stunning Carrières de Lumières in Les Baux-de-Provence, an extraordinary multimedia venue that brings the works of Van Gogh and other great artists to life through mesmerizing visual displays.

Conclude your tour at the Saint-Paul-de-Mausole asylum, where Van Gogh spent a transformative year, creating some of his most iconic works.

Return to Avignon in the evening with free time to further discover the medieval charm of this historic town.

Avignon - Aix-en-provence

Tag 9: From Avignon to Aix-en-Provence

Hop on a morning train from Avignon to Aix-en-Provence, a city rich with artistic heritage. Upon arrival and check-in at your hotel, dive into the world of Paul Cézanne, a prominent figure of Impressionism born in this very city.

Join a small-group tour to visit Cézanne's studio, a rare opportunity to experience the creative space where many of his masterpieces were conceived. Spend your evening exploring Aix-en-Provence's charming squares and winding cobbled streets at your leisure.

Aix-en-provence

Tag 10: A day of artistic inspiration & local flavors

Begin your day with a charming walk through the historic old town of Aix-en-Provence, the very source of Cézanne's artistic inspiration. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a restaurant nestled at the base of Mont Sainte-Victoire, savoring the flavors of Provence just as Cézanne did.

After lunch, follow the Route de Cézanne, taking in the varied beauty of Mont Sainte-Victoire, a constant muse in Cézanne’s works. Visit the 'Terrain des Peintres,' where the artist completed some of his final masterpieces.

Conclude your day with a visit to a local market, where you can sample exquisite French pastries and experience the local culinary delights.

Aix-en-provence

Tag 11: Discover Cézanne's inspiration

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a journey to explore the Bibemus Quarries, a site that deeply inspired Cézanne's artistic vision. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll wander through this geologically and botanically rich area within Sainte Victoire Natural Park.

Amidst the wild vegetation, marvel at the striking yellow-ochre boulders and remnants from the 18th-century quarry, which once provided stone for Aix-en-Provence. The trails will lead you to a breathtaking viewpoint and Cézanne's former Provençal stone house, where he found solace and inspiration for his masterpieces. Return to Aix-en-Provence in the evening to savor your final night in this charming region.

Aix-en-provence

Tag 12: Au revoir, France

As your immersive exploration of France’s Impressionist art comes to a close, prepare for your onward journey. Your hotel will arrange a cab to ensure a smooth transfer to the train station or airport. Wishing you a pleasant trip home and bon voyage!