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.
Enjoy a ride with a free spirit and the wind in your hair, far from traffic and noisy towns on a continuous 240 km path dotted with monuments and exceptional landscapes. Between ports, villages, fields, vineyards and culinary specialities, this region is a place of tradition, seaside resorts and culture. Meet this friendly, natural, jovial, welcoming and food-loving region.
A trip along the canal, would not be complete without watching a boat pass through one of the numerous locks. Stop a moment to see how the water is transferred from one side of the other, raising the barge, and allowing it to pass through. Along your way experience the Mediterranean 'art de vivre' : enjoy a break under an olive tree or stop for lunch in a local restaurant to taste the local gastronomy and wines. Along the Canal du Midi, the combination of local products, peace, quiet and authenticity ensure an unforgettable journey in the heart of nature !
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
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
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).
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Group Tour
Accommodation
Hostel, Hotel, Resort, Guest House
Age Range
18-35 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
London, Florence, Beaujolais, French Riviera
London, Florence, Beaujolais, French Riviera
27% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
From Bastia to Calvi, discover the north coast with stunning landscapes, unspoilt beaches, heritage and rich tradition.
Discover the exceptional landscapes between sea and mountains, but also the authentic villages on the first leg of the new GT20 cycling route. Follow coastal routes, pedal from village to village, taking the time to stop for a drink in a cafe and chat with the locals.
Taste the Corsican unique flavours with its charcuterie: richly-marbled coppa, lonzu, prisuttu and figatellu. Fish and seafood are accented with local herbs including oregano, marjoram and mint. Honey and chestnuts are other staple island products. Other delights that should not be missed are the aromatic wines with their own strong identity from L'Ile-Rousse and Calvi.
Through the enchanting landscapes, this cycling route will introduce you to the authentic taste of Corsica.
Bicycle tours
Tour Type
Private Tour
Accommodation
Hotel, Resort
Age Range
12-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Corsica, Bastia, Centuri, Saint
Corsica, Bastia, Centuri, Saint Florent, Monticello, Calvi
Smell the delicate and fruity fragrances spreading from the famous wine properties bearing suggestive names, and dream about the glorious & turbulent past of the old properties you will cross.
The vines of Bordeaux are some of the most famous in the world. Blaye, Margaux, Saint-Emilion, 'Entre deux mer' : these are prestigious appellations and terroirs that you will explore. The diversity of the wine-growing districts allows for the production of many different types of wines such as reds, dry or sweet whites, roses, light reds and sparkling whites. The Bordeaux vineyards include 6,000 chateaux, historic villages, medieval cities, archeological sites and ancient Roman churches. The winegrowers open up their vineyards for wine tastings, wine courses and numerous cultural and gourmet discoveries.
Unbottle the Bordeaux vineyards and take off on a spirited discovery of this iconic wine-growing region.
This short break, gentle and unhurried cycling holiday follows a triangular route through the heart of the great Loire Valley. Highlights include the majestic chateaux of Amboise and Chambord, and the rich Renaissance splendour of Chenonceau. You'll pass vineyards, sunflowers fields and pretty, sleepy villages, before pedalling gently along shady riverbanks and out through open countryside abundant with wildlife.
On each cycling day, you'll have the opportunity to taste dozens of different wines - stopping at big wineries or village vineyards as the mood takes you - in a wine region more varied and diverse than any other in the world.
Enjoy the sweet and peaceful 'Art de Vivre' in boutique hotels and relax with a glass of local wine by the pool.
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
Excellent itinerary and leader. Couldn't have been better.
From medieval castles, to delicious food, to exploring an underground cave with a river in it...just magical!
City sightseeing
Tour Type
Small Group TourSmall group tours usually have 8-12 participants and maximum up to 18 travelers
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
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
15% OFF TODAY
This deal is valid for limited time. Book now to reserve your seats.
In the heart of Tuscany, Italian ingenuity came to life from the 12th to 14th centuries as the precursor to the Renaissance. The streets, squares, palaces, and churches in Florence and Lucca reflect the beauty, charm, and authenticity born from the movement. Outside the city, experience dazzling Tuscan vineyards and countrysides carpeted with olive and cypress trees. Discover the pink limestone streets of Portoferraio on Elba. We'll continue on to the Maddalena Archipelago in Sardinia, cruising past granite rocks and hidden beaches with turquoise waters. The Costa Smeralda shores offer views of jagged banks alternating with peaceful bays. Our last stop is the unforgettable Cinque Terre and its colorful homes suspended over the open sea.
Cruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin, Resort
Age Range
18-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Nice, Lucca, Portoferraio, Alghe
Nice, Lucca, Portoferraio, Alghero, Porto Cervo, Porto Santo Stefano, La Spezia