French highlights: a family-friendly road trip

Paris - Tours

Day 1: Welcome to France

Your family adventure in France kicks off upon landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. After clearing arrivals, follow the signs to the regional trains and board a first-class train from Paris Roissy CDG directly to St Pierre des Corps.

Upon arrival, pick up your rental car at the station (pre-booked independently) and drive just 20 minutes to your hotel in Tours. Once you’ve checked in and dropped off your luggage, enjoy your first evening in France at leisure.

Tours

Day 2: Exploring the magic of the Loire Valley

Your first three days in the Loire Valley are free for you and your family to explore at your own pace. This enchanting region, full of charm and history, offers endless possibilities for adventure. The six towns of the Loire Valley—Orléans, Blois, Amboise, and Tours—immerse you in the legacy of French royalty, each maintaining a deep connection to the Loire River, once the lifeblood of France’s economy.

Don’t miss Chartres and Bourges, where medieval cathedrals and quaint streets lined with half-timbered houses make for the perfect family stroll. Be captivated by the fairytale-like Château de Chambord, the elegance of Chenonceau, and the commanding presence of Château d'Amboise perched above the Loire. Each offers a unique glimpse into the region’s rich past, ensuring awe and wonder at every turn.

Tours

Day 3: A day visiting the castles of the Loire Valley

After breakfast, set out to explore the enchanting castles of the Loire Valley, where history and beauty intertwine. With over 300 castles to choose from, each one offers a unique experience. Marvel at Chenonceau, gracefully spanning the River Cher, and the grand scale of Chambord. Don’t miss Azay-le-Rideau, appearing to float on the River Indre, or Amboise, with its Leonardo da Vinci connection. Discover the royal romance of Cande, where Edward VIII married Wallis Simpson, and stroll through the stunning gardens of Villandry and Chaumont-sur-Loire.

For a cultural twist, visit Le Grand Pressigny and Oiron, home to fascinating museums and galleries. There's something for everyone in this magical region!

Tours

Day 4: Family-friendly history & culture

After soaking in the grandeur of the Loire Valley's châteaux, shift gears and explore some family-friendly activities and unique attractions. Visit the Maison de la Magie in Blois for magical wonders, or head to ZooParc de Beauval to see giant pandas up close.

Several châteaux offer engaging special programs: At Château du Clos Lucé, delve into Leonardo da Vinci’s inventions within the gardens. Experience history at Forteresse du Faucon Noir, where costumed docents reenact life from the past and demonstrate traditional crafts. At Château de Cheverny, enjoy a special exhibit dedicated to Tintin, the beloved comic-book character.

In Amboise, explore a “mini world of castles,” where you can marvel at 20 of the Loire Valley’s châteaux in miniature form, offering a delightful overview of the region's architectural treasures.

Tours - Rennes - Saint Malo

Day 5: Journey from Amboise to Brittany

After checking out of your hotel in Amboise, embark on a scenic journey to the coast. Your destination is the charming town of Saint-Malo in Brittany, where you’ll spend the next two nights. On your way, make sure to stop in Rennes, Brittany’s vibrant capital. Steeped in history as a crossroads since Roman times, Rennes boasts a majestic center and a delightful medieval quarter perfect for wandering and exploration.

As evening falls, experience the lively atmosphere of this student city. Rennes offers a plethora of bustling pubs and excellent dining options, ensuring your transition to the Brittany coast is both enjoyable and memorable.

Saint Malo

Day 6: Explore Saint-Malo with a guided tour

Meet your guide in the lobby of your hotel or at the entrance to your accommodation for a captivating tour of Saint-Malo. This historic city, with its deep maritime roots, exudes an adventurous spirit through its storied past of sailors, explorers, and corsairs. Marvel at the city’s imposing ramparts, charming stone buildings, and vibrant fishing port, all of which echo its rich seafaring heritage.

Saint-Malo proudly declares its unique identity with the motto: "Neither French, nor Britton, I am from Saint Malo." Today, you’ll uncover the fascinating history and character of this coastal gem. After the tour, enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace to further explore or relax in this enchanting city.

Saint Malo - Mont Saint Michel - Bayeux

Day 7: Follow the coast to Mont Saint Michel

This morning, embark on a scenic drive to Mont Saint Michel, about an hour away, traveling along the beautiful coastal road through Cancale, famous for its oysters. Enjoy views of the rugged Emerald Coast, with its headlands, sandy beaches, and quaint villages.

Upon arrival, marvel at the majestic abbey rising from the sea, with its slender spires and stout ramparts. Despite the crowds, the abbey and its medieval streets offer a timeless glimpse into the past.

Meet your guide for a private tour, exploring the rich history and architectural wonders of Mont Saint Michel.

Bayeux

Day 8: Explore the historic beaches of Normandy

This morning, embark on a journey to the historic beaches of Normandy, where the Allied forces launched the pivotal D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. This monumental operation marked the beginning of the liberation of Europe from Nazi occupation.

Travel along the Normandy coast, from Caen in the east to Sainte-Mère-Église in the west, and delve into the stories and strategies behind this daring and world-changing naval operation.

Bayeux

Day 9: Journey to Versailles with a stop at Monet's Giverny

This morning, drive towards Versailles, making a memorable stop at Giverny to visit Claude Monet's renowned home and gardens. Enjoy skip-the-line access to the Maison et Jardins de Claude Monet, where you can explore the artist's famous lily pond and flower-filled gardens at your own pace.

Monet resided here from 1883 until his death in 1926, and his home remains a picturesque retreat that inspired many of his masterpieces. After soaking in the serene beauty of this Impressionist haven, continue your journey to your hotel in Versailles.

Bayeux - Versailles - Paris

Day 10: The iconic Château de Versailles

Today, embark on a guided family tour of the Château de Versailles, once the opulent residence of Marie Antoinette. Step back in time as you explore the grandeur of Versailles, guided by a specialist and accredited historian. Marvel at the intricate ceilings, golden doorways, and the dazzling Hall of Mirrors, which epitomizes royal power and elegance.

With exclusive skip-the-line access, you'll uncover both the palace's hidden gems and its breathtaking gardens. After your immersive tour, return to your rental car at Orly Airport before heading to your hotel in Paris for a well-deserved rest.

Paris

Day 11: Visit the Eiffel Tower & Musee du Louvre

Your day is set to be unforgettable with visits to two of the city's most iconic landmarks: the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre. Start your day by ascending the elegant Eiffel Tower, a 320-meter-tall marvel originally built by Gustave Eiffel as a temporary exhibit for the 1889 World's Fair.

In the evening, immerse yourself in art and history with an exclusive after-hours tour of the Louvre. This small-group experience, led by a certified guide and passionate art expert, promises to reveal more of the museum's treasures in just two hours than most visitors see in an entire day. Skip the crowds and explore hidden gems and surprising aspects of art history in a way that's engaging for all interests.

Paris

Day 12: A morning of art immersion at Musée d'Orsay

After breakfast, set off for a captivating morning at the Musée d'Orsay, renowned for its exceptional collection of 19th-century art. With your skip-the-line access, embark on a private 2-hour tour highlighting masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, Pissarro, Manet, Degas, and more.

Guided by an expert, delve into the vibrant world of 19th-century Paris through its cafes, cabarets, dance halls, and salons, all depicted by these iconic artists. Discover not only the art but also the fascinating stories and eccentric personalities behind the world’s first truly modern art movement.

Paris

Day 13: Explore Paris your way

On your final day in Paris, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace! Dive into the city’s culinary delights, embark on a shopping spree, visit more iconic landmarks and museums, or simply meander through the charming streets.

For family-friendly fun, consider a visit to beautiful parks like the Jardin du Luxembourg or the Jardin des Tuileries, both of which offer playgrounds and fountains perfect for toy boat sailing. Alternatively, enjoy a magical day at Disneyland Paris, explore the Jardin d'Acclimatation, or discover fascinating exhibits at the Paris Wax Museum, the Science and Industry Museum, or the Natural History Museum in the Jardin des Plantes. The possibilities are endless for a memorable last day in Paris!

Paris

Day 14: Au Revoir, Paris!

It's time to say goodbye to France. At the designated time, a transfer will be arranged to pick you up from your hotel and take you to the airport. We wish you safe and pleasant travels as you journey back home, with a heart full of cherished experiences from your Parisian escape.