On this river cruise to France, sail through timeless beauty along the Seine River, where every bend reveals charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your journey in the magical city of Paris, where you board your elegant river cruise. Take in the romantic atmosphere of the City of Light as you settle in and enjoy a delightful welcome dinner with live music while cruising into the night. Next, you will cruise toward Rouen, a city rich in Gothic architecture and medieval charm. Walk through cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses and admire the towering spires of its famed cathedral, once immortalized by Monet. Then, continue to Le Havre, where dramatic cliffs and coastal beauty await. This vibrant port city, reborn after WWII, offers striking modern architecture and access to the stunning Alabaster Coast. Later, from there sail to the serene town of Caudebec-en-Caux, surrounded by Normandy’s lush countryside. Enjoy the tranquil riverside setting and discover the town’s historic church and quaint charm. Afterwards, enjoy the peaceful ambiance of Vernon, known for its elegant homes and scenic riverbanks. This charming town sits near the inspiration behind many of Monet’s masterpieces. Before long, you arrive in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, steeped in riverside history. Wander through its charming streets and soak in the town’s maritime heritage at the meeting point of the Seine and Oise rivers. Finally, return to Paris and explore its world-famous landmarks and vibrant culture from the Eiffel Tower to the grand boulevards. End your cruise with a festive farewell dinner and music, celebrating an unforgettable journey through the heart of France.
This is a Solo Tour
You don't pay single supplement and get a room for yourself!
Make tracks to embark on a 23-day adventure encompassing France, Switzerland and Italy. Using trains as your primary means of moving about, you’ll get started in the City of Lights before moving into Lausanne and Lucerne, with their UNESCO World Heritage-listed vineyard terraces and views of the Alps. Then it’s into Italy, where you’ll have plenty of free time to explore Rome before heading north to the Tuscan countryside, Cinque Terre, the Portofino Peninsula and more. Best of all, you’ll do with the comforts of rail transport and an expert local leader showing you the way.
ExplorerTrain tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Venice, Rome, Florence, L
Paris, Venice, Rome, Florence, Lucca, La Spezia, Asti, Lake Como, Lausanne, Lucerne, Bellinzona, Ticino Valley Natural Park
Embark on a captivating self-drive journey through France, starting with the enchanting city of Paris, where iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral await. Discover the artistic streets of Montmartre, the vibrant Latin Quarter, and the elegance of the Champs-Elysées. Venture west to Normandy to explore the historic D-Day beaches and quaint countryside, sampling local delicacies along the way. Continue to Tours in the heart of the Loire Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where medieval charm meets world-renowned wineries and architectural gems like Saint-Gatien Cathedral. Conclude your adventure with a scenic drive back to Paris, soaking in the beauty of the Loire Valley and savoring the cultural delights of the French capital. Perfect for those seeking history, culture, and gastronomy, this tour blends iconic landmarks with serene countryside experiences.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
We had a fabulous time with Explore, the walking tour was breathtaking! Majestic snow capped mountains surrounded by the gorgeous array of wildflowers, and lakes and streams dotted throughout . We were blessed with perfect weather every day and loved seeing the clouds roll by each day.
Our leader was wonderful, very organised, knowledgeable and a genuinely a lovely person.
Explore tours really captured the essence of the Mont Blanc area.
Walking toursAdventure
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
16-79 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Les Praz
Chamonix, Mont Blanc, Les Praz, Cascades De Berard, Le Tour, Lac Blanc, Les Houches
Discover the highlights of the south of France and the city-state of Monaco on this 8-day tour. Explore the charming old town of Antibes and enjoy panoramic views from Cimiez in Nice. Spend a leisurely day in Cannes, with options for sightseeing, shopping, or a boat trip. Visit the medieval town of Grasse, the artist village of St Paul de Vence, and enjoy another free day to visit coastal gems like Saint-Raphael or Saint-Tropez. Experience the glamour of Monaco and Monte Carlo on an included day trip, visiting the famous Casino de Monte Carlo, taking in the Formula One track and Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild.
Explorer
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
18-80 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Cannes, Cote D'Azur
Cannes, Cote D'Azur
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This self-drive tour of France combines the cultural richness of Paris, the natural splendor of Provence, and the Mediterranean charm of Nice for a truly memorable French adventure. Begin your journey in Paris, exploring world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. Wander through the vibrant neighborhoods of Montmartre and Le Marais to immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture. Next, take a train to Avignon, where you will pick up a rental car to delve into this historic city’s past. Visit the majestic Palais des Papes and the iconic Pont Saint-Benezet and enjoy a scenic drive through Provence’s picturesque vineyards, olive groves and quaint villages. Proceed to Aix-en-Provence, admiring its elegant architecture, the historic Saint-Sauveur Cathedral and bustling local markets. Conclude your trip in Nice, basking in its stunning coastline and lively city atmosphere. Discover nearby gems such as the medieval village of St. Paul de Vence, known for its artistic charm; Grasse, renowned for its perfume industry; Eze, with its spectacular views and Monaco, famous for its luxury and elegance as your enchanting journey ends in the French Riviera region.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
This was a great trip to explore each city. Personally, this felt a bit more independent type travel (exploring the city by yourself or if you made a friend with them) vs other Contikis (more time with the group). Hotels were great and fantastic locations (centrally located near metros and the main train station). Fantastic free time add ons as well.
This self-drive tour in France offers a rich tapestry of experiences across its diverse regions. Start your journey in Paris as you drive into the enchanting Loire Valley, renowned for its Renaissance chateaux nestled among rolling vineyards. Immerse yourself in the valley's history and beauty, exploring towns like Tours, Amboise and Blois, each with its own architectural wonders and culinary delights. Then, continue westward to Normandy where medieval towns such as Bayeux and Rouen await with their Gothic cathedrals and poignant World War II sites. Discover the iconic Mont Saint-Michel rising majestically from the bay, a testament to medieval ingenuity and spiritual devotion. Later you will drive back to Paris, indulge in the city's artistic treasures at the Louvre, stroll along the Seine River and savor French cuisine in atmospheric bistros. Whether exploring the opulence of Versailles or cruising the Seine at sunset, each day offers new perspectives and unforgettable moments. All framed by the freedom and flexibility of your self-guided adventure through France's captivating landscapes.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
On this tour witness the rich viticultural heritage of Bordeaux, savor world-class wines and enjoy the scenic beauty of southwestern France as you explore historic sites and charming villages. Begin in Bordeaux, exploring its UNESCO-listed heritage and wine regions before climbing the Pyla Sand Dune and sampling oysters on the Atlantic coast. Then, drive to Perigueux and visit Saint-Emilion en route. Delve into Dordogne’s medieval architecture and prehistoric caves in Sarlat and the Vezere Valley. Experience the underground wonders of Gouffre de Padirac and the cliffside village of Rocamadour before heading to Cahors and exploring its medieval sites with scenic landscapes. Then, you may visit Toulouse’s vibrant Old Quarter while driving towards Carcassonne. Experience the stunning allure of Carcassonne and the historic charm of Fanjeaux, the medieval splendor of Mirepoix, Castelnaudary’s culinary treasures and the picturesque views of St. Ferreol Lake. This itinerary promises an enriching blend of exquisite wines and vineyards, historical exploration, picturesque landscapes, and exceptional local experiences.
Self-drive or vehicle rental
Tour Type
Independent TourTypically a private tour undertaken by one or two travelers
Majestic Istanbul, imperial Vienna, romantic Paris ... we’ve composed an exceptional journey by private train and luxury river cruise to highlight these legendary cities and a plethora of lesser-known marvels in between. Begin by gliding your way through 7 scenic nations aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express. You’ll stop in Champagne, France, for a vineyard tour and tasting, listen to live saxophone music echo through the stone halls of the Postojna caves, and much more. Then follow the path of the Seine River through Normandy to stroll Monet’s lush gardens at Giverny, sample camembert and crisp apple cider at a countryside farm, and sit for a private concert at the Rouen Cathedral.
Take a ten-day rail-only adventure from Paris to Rome. You’ll start in the City of Lights, then you’ll zoom to Switzerland for a mountain getaway. In Lausanne, see the iconic Cathedral and maybe visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Vineyard Terraces of Lavaux for a wine tasting, then head to Lucerne for incredible views of the lake and surrounding Alps on Mount Pilatus. Take the Gotthard Panorama Express to the city of Bellinzona, where you’ll hop on another cable car for more mountain views. Make your way to Rome, where you’ll have plenty of free time to see one of the Seven Wonders of the World and sit down to a fresh lunch with an Intrepid Foundation partner, Cooperativa Coraggio.
ExplorerTrain tours
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Rome, Lausanne, Lake Luce
Paris, Rome, Lausanne, Lake Lucerne, Lucerne, Ticino Valley Natural Park
Frolic in France and Monaco on this 14-day guided tour. In spectacular Saint-Tropez, a Local Expert will guide you along the coastal town’s ancient walls for stunning views of the sea below. See three architecture styles beautifully combine at the Aix-en-Provence Cathedral. Slide into the passenger’s seat of a vintage car for a drive through the countryside, then sip on wine at a countryside winery. Savour the 18th-century elegance of Château de Fonscolombe in the heart of Provence in a 3-night luxurious stay. In Paris, admire the glittering Eiffel Towel and the majestic Arc de Triomphe.
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Villa
Age Range
5-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Paris, Nice, French Riviera, Bor
Paris, Nice, French Riviera, Bordeaux, Saint Tropez, Aix En Provence, Nimes, Carcassonne
Loved the whole experience- visited all the best countries in Europe, tasted wines, spirits and other European alcohol In cheapest prices. It’s not suitable for asians with dark skin and if you’re over 34 yrs old unless you have a thick skin to not give any reaction to the comments some people make as a joke- only because they are white and still young. Not sure what they are so proud about in those moments. Other than that I enjoyed my time with rest of them. The price was on discount- I had to add on some extra adventures which worth it. Honestly 24 days is finished so quickly. Recommend to all the people who like explore Europe more in less time in cheaper price. Great work contiki, I am on my second one now- in Thailand, this group of approx 30 people is much better than European escapades (just my personal experience).
Uncover the Alps in all their glory as you spend eight days hiking the iconic Tour du Mont Blanc. Following a circuit route from Chamonix in France, come face to face with dizzying peaks, glittering lakes and rolling pastures, passing through Switzerland and Italy on the way. Each day ends in charming accommodation, and your luggage will be transported for you to lighten the load. With a highly qualified International Mountain Leader as your guide who will not only ensure your safety, but also show you what makes this part of the world so special, you can focus on the gorgeous natural scenery!
Trekking and Hiking
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
Accommodation
Hotel, Lodge
Age Range
15-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Chamonix, Argentiere, Champex, C
Chamonix, Argentiere, Champex, Courmayeur, Les Chapieux, Les Contamines-Montjoie