Highlights of Western France: Coastal Waters, Historic Sites & Famed Gastronomy - 14 Days

Highlights

• Step back in time at the ancient pilgrimage site of Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey
• Get a bird's-eye view of Paris from the top of the iconic Eiffel Tower
• Cruise the Atlantic coastline of La Rochelle via luxury catamaran
• Eat your way through Bordeaux with a guided gastronomy experience
• E-bike between vineyards on a wine-tasting tour of Saint-Émilion

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paris, Transfer to Bayeux, Guided Walking Tour of Bayeux

Welcome to France! Your flight lands in Paris, where you'll meet your driver and transfer to the city of Bayeux. Located in northern France's Normandy region and nestled on the shores of the Aure River, this picturesque town is home to the Norman Romanesque Cathédrale Notre-Dame and the Bayeux Tapestry, which tells the story of the Norman invasion of England in 1066. The town is also notable for being the first French town to be liberated during World War II and for its proximity to the D-Day landing beaches.

Once you've settled in, take a privately guided walking tour around the city. Follow the banks of the Aure, where the wheels of the watermills bear witness to the labor of centuries, and see streets lined with traditional wooden-framed Norman houses as your guide regales you with tales about the city. You can also tour the Tapestry Museum and see the famed tapestry. Your guide will share the story of the artwork and its origins, ending the day at the grandiose 13th-century Notre-Dame. Tonight, have dinner at a local restaurant and relax at your hotel. 

Day 2: Day Trip to Normandy D-Day Sites

Learn more about the Normandy region's history and role in World War II today with a private tour of the D-Day beaches involved in Operation Overlord. Meet your guide, a local specialist on the battle, and make your first stop at Omaha Beach. Visit the commemorative sculptures on the beach, then stop in at the D-Day Experience theater, where you can see an interactive 3D film chronicling the day's events.

Next up is Utah Beach, one of the five beaches of the Allied invasion of Normandy. Discover the history and heroics of the US 4th Infantry, who were the first to come ashore on June 6, 1944, and went on to take the beach. Stop by the US Cemetery, where you'll have time to pay respect and honor the soldiers of World War ll.

Continue to La Pointe du Hoc, a German battery whose 100-foot (30 m) cliffs were scaled by US Rangers who seized the German artillery pieces. The highest point between the Utah and Omaha beaches, it has incredible views of the English Channel and beyond. Your tour concludes in the village of Sainte-Mère-Eglise, which served as the primary jump zone for the 82nd Airborne US forces. Hear stories of how paratroopers rained on the village, with one famously getting caught in the church tower! Return to Bayeux late in the afternoon, where the rest of your day is free. 

Day 3: Discover Mont-Saint-Michel 

Take a day trip to the island settlement of Mont-Saint-Michel, one of Normandy's most memorable sites. Located near the fortified city of Saint-Malo, which once served as a stronghold for privateers, this tidal island and UNESCO World Heritage Site sits in the Couesnon River estuary, crowned by the walls of a towering Benedictine abbey. A pilgrimage site that dates back to the eighth century, the Dukes of Normandy and subsequent French kings helped develop the abbey, with several buildings added throughout the Middle Ages. 

With your guide, enter via the village's dual entrance, which features separate arched doorways for carts and pedestrians, and pass by traditional timber-framed architecture. Visit the vast abbey and its ramparts and admire the settings, which have inspired countless artists. Your guide will share lesser-known tales and legends about Mont-Saint-Michel through the ages—don't be surprised if you feel like you've fallen back in time to the medieval era! Head back to town, where you'll find souvenir shops, art galleries, and quaint cafés where you can grab a bite to eat before returning to Bayeux. 

Day 4: Train to Paris, Ascend the Eiffel Tower 

Depart Bayeux via train this morning and head to Paris. After a journey of about 2.5 hours, a private driver will meet you at the station and drop you at your accommodations. Rest and regroup, then step out to get your first look at the "City of Lights." Take a serene walk along the river Seine, or head to Canal Saint-Martin, a nearly 3-mile (4.6 km) canal that connects the Canal de l'Ourcq to the Seine. Here, you'll find art galleries and quiet parks, as well as cafés if you'd like to grab a bite.

Later, visit one of Paris' most iconic landmarks, the Eiffel Tower. Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, this 1,049-foot (320 m) spire has stood the test of time—no one could imagine Paris without it! Start on the first floor, where you'll walk out onto a sheer glass viewing platform. Continue to the second floor, home to the Michelin-starred Jules Verne restaurant, Madame Brasserie, and several takeaway food stands. Grab a bite and take in views of Paris landmarks, then ascend to the summit for a bird's-eye view of the city from an astounding 906 feet (276 m).

Day 5: Murders & Mysteries of the Louvre, Gourmet Foodie Tour in Les Halles

Take a deep dive into the secrets behind the home of some of the world's most revered artistic works today at the Musée du Louvre. This former royal palace is now the largest museum in the world, but what hides within its walls? Accompanied by your expert guide, you'll learn about the mysteries behind works such as the "Mona Lisa," "Venus de Milo," and the "Winged Victory of Samothrace" as you see these major works of art from a new perspective. You'll also visit the Department of Egyptian Antiquities and hear about Tutankhamun, the boy pharaoh and the curse that befell those who found his tomb.

This lively tour will also showcase the times of royalty, telling tales of a misplaced golden helmet found at the bottom of a well, the unusual circumstances of King Henri IV dying in his carriage, and the mysterious murders surrounding the reign of Charles IX. Along the way, your guide will share insight into the many artistic works, as you view creations from masters such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Delacroix.

Afterward, learn about Paris' food culture with a tasting tour through Les Halles district, otherwise known as the "The Belly of Paris." This area has been an epicenter for the food industry since the 1800s, with diverse grocers, markets, restaurants, and gourmet specialties. Meet your guide and walk along the charming streets, hearing stories that date back to the Middle Ages and the evolution of French cuisine. Sample savory snacks, flaky pastries, and of course, refreshing wine. Visit shops that have been part of the city's history for years, coming away with a better understanding of French gastronomy.

Day 6: Vintage Fun at Saint-Ouen Flea Market, Explore Montmartre, Cabaret Show

Meet your guide for a walking tour that showcases the vintage vibes of Puces de Saint-Ouen, Paris' lively and enormous flea market. The market, which is the biggest in the world, has miles of stalls that hold ages-old treasures and gifts. Each area has a different theme, including furniture, antique textiles, paintings, ceramics, glassware, maps, vintage clothing, jewelry, and bags. Your guide will help you navigate this somewhat overwhelming shopping mecca, and will assist in getting your items packed and exported. You can also take much-needed coffee or hot cocoa breaks as you go!

This afternoon, step out for a private walking tour around the Montmartre neighborhood. This artist's haven once housed greats such as Picasso, Modigliani, and Toulouse-Lautrec. See the district's most well-known sites, hearing captivating tales of the Belle Époque and the area's notorious cabarets. See the Moulin Rouge, known for being the birthplace of the cancan dance, the Rue Lepic, the Moulin de la Galette, and the Montmartre Vineyard. End at Sacré-Coeur, a Roman Catholic basilica sitting at the top of Montmartre's hill, for panoramic views of the city as the sun goes down.

Discover more of Paris' cabaret scene tonight with a visit to an authentic Parisian cabaret. Enjoy sophisticated choreography and avant-garde performances, with sultry artistry that offers a romantic glimpse into an era of bohemian soirées and unbridled creativity. Sip your favorite beverage as you experience this time-honored, epically Parisian event. 

Day 7: Train to Nantes, Navibus & Château des Ducs de Bretagne

You're off to Brittany today, catching a 2.5-hour train to the city of Nantes. Sitting on the banks of the Loire River, the city has a long history, first as a stronghold of the powerful Dukes of Brittany and more recently as an industrial hub. It's also home to the medieval Château des Ducs de Bretagne, which you'll get to see today.

Get settled at your hotel, then start your self-tour by hopping on one of the city's Navibus shuttles, water taxis that take you across the Loire and to sites such as the Trentemoult district, where you can wander narrow alleyways and see the colorful homes, or the Chantenay district and its hilltop of Butte Sainte-Anne, offering expansive views of the countryside. You can also spend some time at one of Nantes' many restaurants, enjoying regional cuisine and wine, or do some souvenir shopping at local boutiques.

Spend the rest of your day at the Château des Ducs de Bretagne (Castle of the Dukes), where Nantes' ruling class once resided. Built in the late 15th century by François II and his daughter, Anne of Brittany, it was occupied by the Dukes of Britanny and then eventually became the Breton residence of the French Monarchy. Visit the Nantes History Museum within the castle, where you'll find 32 rooms housing a collection of more than 1,000 objects. Learn about the region's past and present as you walk the château's courtyards and ascend to the fortified ramparts for views of the river and city. 

Day 8: See Nantes via Vintage Citroën, Visit Les Machines de l'Île

Today starts with a guided tour of Nantes via a stylish vintage Citroën car. Your knowledgeable French driver will escort you to some of the city's top sites, including the Botanical Garden, where you can stop to walk the shaded pathways and see the plentiful birdlife that resides here, and the impressive Nantes Cathedral. Drive the quiet roads of the countryside, stopping at a local winery to sample muscadet, a white wine that is a specialty of this region, and learn about the cultivation of the grapes as you visit with the winemaker.

Return to Nantes for lunch, then make your way to Île de Nantes, an island that sits in the city center, and the Machines de l'Île, a fascinating gallery where machines come to life. The brainchild of artists François Delaroziere and Pierre Orefice, the project blends industry, art, and mechanics, all taking place at a former shipyard. Ride an electronic elephant that walks the grounds, take flight on a giant hummingbird in the Machine Gallery, and see strange and unusual marine creatures on the Carrousel des Mondes Marins. 

Day 9: Transfer to La Rochelle, Seaside Sunset Cruise

You're off to La Rochelle, a coastal city in southwestern France and capital of the Charente-Maritime department. This city was once home to the largest Templar base on the Atlantic, where they served as trade intermediaries between England and Mediterranean cities. Modern La Rochelle retains much of its original charm, with cobblestone streets, historic sites, and some of the freshest seafood around.

After breakfast, your private transfer will take you to the train station, where you'll hop on board for the scenic two-hour ride. Arrive and settle in at your hotel, then this evening, take a sailing cruise along the coastline. Head to the dock and board a luxury catamaran, then set sail with your captain and crew. Pass by the tower of Tour Richelieu, tour the harbor of Les Minimes, and stop for endless sunset views as you learn more about local history from your hosts. Return to La Rochelle amid the twinkling lights of the city, enjoying dinner and an evening walk around town before retiring. 

Day 10: Guided Tour of La Rochelle, Free Afternoon to Explore

See La Rochelle via a walking tour this morning, meeting your guide and setting off to find the best local sights around the city. Start with a walk along the Old Harbor area, taking in the boats coming and going as your guide shares stories about the city's marine background. Visit the city's famed three towers, the Tour Saint-Nicolas, Tour de la Chaîne, and Tour de la Lanterne, which date back to the Middle Ages and once served as defensive fortifications as well as prisons. You'll also learn about the city's notable historical figures and the roles they played in the city's growth and development. 

After the tour, you're free to see more of La Rochelle on your own. Visit museums in the Old Quarter to learn more about the merchants and explorers who took expeditions from the port, and see the artifacts they brought back. Or see the region's marine life at La Rochelle Aquarium, considered one of France's premier aquariums with exhibits of more than 600 species. If you'd prefer some outdoor fun, visit a nearby beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, or rent watersports equipment. Tonight, consider dinner at Chez André, one of the city's top seafood restaurants. 

Day 11: Train to Bordeaux, Self-Guided Sightseeing, Gourmet Gastronomy Tour 

The final leg of your travels takes you to the city of Bordeaux. Western France's undisputed wine capital, the Bordeaux region is home to over 6,000 vineyards, that produce some of the finest red wine on the planet. The city itself features a UNESCO-listed center full of beautifully restored 18th-century buildings along cobblestone paths, a vibrant riverfront area, and a cutting-edge arts scene, not to mention excellent restaurants. After a 2-3-hour train ride from La Rochelle, arrive in Bordeaux, drop your bags at your hotel, and spend some time exploring the city.

Check out sites such as the Grosse Cloche, one of the oldest belfries in France that's still rung for yearly celebrations around the city. Visit the Cité du Vin museum, immersing yourself in the world of wine as you enjoy interactive displays and learn about Bordeaux's role in the wine industry. Take a walk through the peaceful greenery of Bordeaux Botanical Garden, or if you're feeling especially fit, climb the 229 steps of the Tour Pey-Berland for phenomenal views.

Conclude your day with a delightful journey into the cuisine and culture of Bordeaux. Meet your guide for a food-focused stroll through the city, starting at the lively Place Saint-Pierre district with a visit to a local shop for coffee and handcrafted chocolates. Walk through the Old Quarter, taking in the historic architecture and monuments, then stop at an avant-garde grocery store for bread and croissants. End at the covered market of Marché des Capucins and sample delicious cheeses paired with wine as your guide explains more about the heritage behind Bordeax's regional fare. 

Day 12: E-Bike Winery Tour in Saint-Émilion 

It's all about the wines today as you set out on an e-bike tour to Saint-Émilion, part of southwestern France's Gironde department and the Libournais wine region. In the morning, depart from Bordeaux with your guides, traveling by van and then on arrival, mounting up on your trusted e-bike steeds for the day. E-biking is an easy and fun way to see the countryside, as the bike engines can give you a boost on harder terrain, making it accessible for nearly all fitness levels. 

Known for its merlot grapes, which are turned into world-famous wines, you'll visit two prestigious châteaux to tour their vineyards and cellars as you learn more about the winemaking process. Sample delicious varietals paired with fruits or cheeses, and spend some time pedaling around town, where you can visit sites such as the 12th-century Eglise Monolithe de Saint-Émilion, a monolithic church and catacombs carved out of natural caverns. Stop by a local wine merchant for a final tasting and lessons on the traditions of this wine-rich region, then return to Bordeaux.

Day 13: Dune du Pilat, Arcachon Bay Oysters & Château Wine Tastings 

Make the most of your last day in France with a full-day tour of the Arcachon region and a trip along the Bordeaux and Medoc wine routes. Meet your guide and depart Bordeaux, making your first stop at the remarkable Dune du Pilat. This is the highest sand dune in Europe, standing tall between ocean and forest, and you'll have time to walk around and climb the dune, taking in views of the nearby Landes forest.

Continue to the Bay of Arcachon, which has been classified as a protected marine natural park since 2014. Known for its oyster farms, you'll meet a local producer and sample an assortment of fresh-from-the-sea oysters, accompanied by a glass of refreshing white wine. Enjoy convivial conversation as you take in views of the bay, then head back to Bordeaux for a quick picnic lunch in the city center.

The fun continues with a drive through the "Château Route" of the Medoc wine region. Learn more about the famed wineries here, stopping at a family run-estate to visit the vineyards, vat room, and cellar. Your expert winemaker will share tips and tricks for proper tasting, and you'll sample the estate's top wines. End with a visit to a classified growth estate. Learn how a winery achieves this coveted classification, tour the vineyards, and enjoy a tasting with local French delicacies. 

Day 14: Depart Bordeaux

Your adventures in France come to a close today. At the appointed time, your driver will transfer you to the airport, where your departing flight awaits. Au revoir! 

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