Luxury Highlights of France: Wine, Culture & Cuisine - 14 Days

Highlights

• Skip the lines with VIP tours of the Louvre and Versailles
• Taste your way through Burgundy's best wineries on a full-day private experience
• Dive into Lyon's famous gastronomy with a foodie's tour of the Old Town
• Explore the famous markets and villages around Aix-en-Provence
• Swim, snorkel, and sunbathe while cruising around Marseille's Frioul archipelago

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Paris, Explore Medieval Sainte-Chapelle, Notre-Dame & Conciergerie

Welcome to France! Your flight lands in the capital of Paris, otherwise known as the "City of Lights." This thriving metropolis blends far-reaching history with modern vibes, featuring ancient architecture alongside chic cafés, world-class museums, and high-end shopping.

Your private driver will collect you from the airport and transfer you to your accommodations at Hotel de la Place du Louvre, a luxury retreat that sits mere steps from the famous Musée du Louvre. Offering elegant rooms decorated in classic Parisian style and expansive city views, you'll find yourself within walking distance of the city's most important monuments. Relax in your room for a bit, then head out to learn more about this historic city with a privately guided tour. 

Start at the iconic Notre-Dame, where you'll learn about the birth of Gothic art and the painstaking restoration process following the 2019 fire, and visit Sainte-Chapelle, a 13th-century royal chapel with soaring golden arches and more than 1,000 stained glass windows. You'll also see the Conciergerie, Paris' first royal palace. The palace was turned into a prison during the French Revolution and is the place where Marie Antoinette and thousands of others spent their final days. Afterward, have dinner at a local restaurant or explore more on your own.

Day 2: Treasures of Musée du Louvre, Marais Cheese & Wine Tasting

Today begins with a deep dive into the home of some of the most renowned artistic works of the Western world—Musée du Louvre. Originally built as a fortress and then used as a royal residence, the Louvre was inaugurated as a museum in the late 1700s. Today, its collections are valued at more than 45 billion, with works that include the revered "Mona Lisa" and the "Venus de Milo."

Team up with a private local art historian, who will help you learn about these masterpieces and others, sharing insight into the different works and their history. The 2.5-hour VIP tour bypasses the general admission lines, and you can specify which artists you'd prefer to see. Walk the halls of this former royal palace and marvel at masters such as da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Delacroix as your guide helps to demystify and decode each piece.

Later, head to Paris' Marais district for a gastronomical adventure that's sure to please any foodies in your group. You'll visit a 17th-century cheese cellar, where an expert cheesemaker will teach you the ins and outs of crafting the perfect artisanal cheese. Taste different cheeses alongside local wines, and enjoy the wonders of the perfect pairing as the wine and cheese "speak" to each other. After the tour, take a stroll along the bohemian Canal Saint-Martin area before returning to your hotel. 

Day 3: Discover Versailles Palace, Montmartre & Sacré-Coeur Walking Tour

Step back to the times of kings and queens today on a visit to the Palace and Park of Versailles. In the morning, meet your private guide and take a quick train ride to Versailles, where you'll exit the station and walk to the palace. This former royal residence, once the hunting pavilion of Louis XIII, was transformed into an opulent and decadent testament to France's "Le Grand Siècle" (the Great Century) by Louis XIV. You'll have the opportunity to see some of the 2,300 rooms that make up the palace, as well as the surrounding gardens. 

Your guide will whisk you past the waiting visitor queues and take you on an exclusive private tour that showcases the grandeur of the king and queen's apartments, the Hall of Mirrors, and the incredible Gardens à la Française. View the Gallery of Great Battles, the many art collections, and the garden's endless fountains and groves.

Stop for lunch, then return to Paris in time for a private walking tour of the Montmartre neighborhood. This artists' haven is home to the former residences of greats such as Picasso, Modigliani, and Toulouse-Lautrec. Together with your guide, you'll see the district's most well-known sites, including 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, taking in the panoramic views of the city. 

Day 4: Transfer to Dijon, Explore the City

Your next destination is the city of Dijon, the former capital of the Duchy of Burgundy and easily one of France's most charming cities. In the morning, your driver will collect you from your hotel for the scenic 3.5-hour drive. Upon arrival, you'll check in at the fabulous Grand Hôtel la Cloche, a 5-star property that is considered the epitome of refinement and comfort. Nestled in the quiet luxury of well-manicured gardens, the hotel has an internationally renowned on-site restaurant, rooms decorated with museum-quality art, and options for garden-view rooms.

After check-in, spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Stroll the historic town center and take in the elegant medieval and Renaissance buildings that hark back to the city's 14th and 15th-century roots, and see the Notre-Dame de Dijon cathedral. You can also visit museums such as the vast Musée des Beaux-Arts or smaller Musée Rude, and of course, you'll want to stop in at Les Halles covered market, where you can sample some delicious local food. Return to your hotel in time to rest up for tomorrow's adventures. 

Day 5: Vineyard Tours & Tastings in Côte de Beaune & Côte de Nuits

The Burgundy region has received worldwide recognition for its legendary winemaking, and today, you'll have the opportunity to explore the great wines of Burgundy and those who make them. Together with your private guide, you'll travel along the Route des Grands Crus of Côte de Nuits, making stops at estates such as Vosne-Romanée, Gevrey-Chambertin, Morey-Saint-Denism, Nuits-Saint-Georges, and the unmissable Romanée Conti and Clos de Vougeot plots.

Visit a private wine cellar to taste an insider's selection of wines that come from estates not open to the public and sip local gems that are difficult to find outside of Burgundy. You'll have the option for lunch and a tasting at Château du Clos de Vougeot, often referred to as the "Temple of Burgundy wines," or a four-course set menu at La Table de Léonce, served on the terrace of a 15th-century vat house.

Take a walk in the vineyards, learning more about cultivation techniques and the history of wine in Burgundy, then end the day with a visit to the "Golden Triangle" of the great white wines of Burgundy: Meursault, Puligny-Montrachet, and Chassagne-Montrachet. Tour a local estate and taste some of the most beautiful varietals of unoaked white wines, all while discovering the art, craft, and history of enology. 

Day 6: Tour the Historic Villages of Burgundy 

Depart your hotel this morning for a private excursion that takes you along the scenic roads of the Burgundian countryside, stopping off at some of the region's most historic villages along the way. Travel along the beautiful landscapes of the Auxois and the extraordinary 18th-century Burgundy Canal, making your first stop in the medieval town of Châteauneuf en Auxious, easily considered one of the most picturesque villages in France. The town sits atop a rocky outcrop, offering incredible views, and you'll have a chance to see the many 14th-16th-century mansions that make up the village. 

Next is Semur-en-Auxois, a town that has remained largely unchanged since the Middle Ages. Surrounded by medieval charm, this is the perfect place to break for lunch and a stroll. Afterward, you'll be driven to Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, another village famous for its beauty. You might recognize it as the setting of the movie "Chocolat." Take some time to visit the ancient abbey (founded in 719 CE), where they've manufactured the popular candy, Anis de Flavigny, since 1591. Learn how the sweets are made, and be sure to try a sample or two! 

Your final stop is Alesia, the site of Julius Caesar's renowned victory in 52 BCE. Ruins dating to the Roman period are still in evidence in the town, and your guide will share more information about this important time in history. End with a tour of the Abbey of Fontenay, the oldest existing Cistercian abbey and a UNESCO world heritage site. Spend some time relaxing in the peaceful gardens there before returning to Dijon.

Day 7: Cooking Class in Beaune, Transfer to Lyon

Learn the art of Burgundian cuisine and how it pairs with wine at today's private cooking class. Your driver will transport you to the city of Beaune, located approximately 45 minutes from Dijon and considered the capital of Burgundy wines. Upon arrival, meet with a local chef and prepare a traditional Burgundian menu made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. If you happen to attend on a Saturday, you'll have the added bonus of shopping with your instructor at the weekend farmers market.

Explore different cooking techniques as the chef shares personal stories and insight into the cultural history of Burgundian food, then pair your creations with the perfect selection of wines, gaining a better understanding of how the flavors can complement each other.

Afterward, depart for Lyon, France's third most populous city. Banked by the Saône and Rhône Rivers, the compact city center features traboules (hidden passageways), a UNESCO-listed Old Town, and a wealth of gorgeous architecture. Enjoy the scenic, two-hour drive, checking in at the Grand Hotel Des Terreaux, an elegant accommodation with 53 richly decorated rooms, an indoor pool, and easy walking distance to many city sights. Spend the evening unwinding at the hotel's luxurious pool area, or step out to see some of the city and grab a bite to eat. 

Day 8: Explore the Golden Stones of Beaujolais, Old Town Foodie Tour

Today's adventure takes you to southern Beaujolais. Often compared to Tuscany, this hilly region is dotted with hilltop villages, all built with golden stone that makes for a magnificent backdrop against the lush greenery of the countryside. Your driver/guide will meet you at your hotel, and you'll set out, traveling along rural roadways and stopping to walk the cobbled streets of local villages. You'll also have a chance to visit a local winemaker, learning more about the region's famed Beaujolais Nouveau varietal while enjoying a wine tasting.

Later, spend some time in Lyon's UNESCO-listed Old Town as you embark on a private tour that showcases not only the region's history but also its gastronomy. Meet your guide and head out on foot, strolling by sites such as the medieval Lyon Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste) and the many Renaissance-era mansions. Meet local food artisans and vendors, learning more about Lyonaisse cuisine and its importance in French culture. Visit four different establishments for wine tastings and delicious local dishes as your guide explains more about creating the perfect wine and food pairing. 

Day 9: Morning Tour of Pérouges Medieval Village

Located just a short distance from Lyon, the medieval village of Pérouges feels frozen in time with its perfectly preserved cobbled streets and half-timbered buildings. This morning, you'll meet with your private guide/driver and travel into the region of La Dombes, known for its watery landscapes dotted with ponds and wetlands. Arrive in Pérouges and take a tour around town, admiring the 15th and 16th-century houses and the lovely, winding streets. The town has been used as a set in several films, including the "Three Musketeers" movie. 

Walk along the fortified walls, taking in exceptional views of the Ain Valley and the distant Alps. Visit the charming Place des Tilleuls (Town Square), then stop for lunch at the Hostellerie du Vieux Pérouges hotel, where you can try their famous galette (free-form pie) alongside some home-brewed apple cider. Finish the day with a final stroll at your leisure, perhaps stopping in at some local shops for souvenirs, then return to Lyon for the evening. 

Day 10: Transfer to Aix-en-Provence, Wine Tour & Tasting in the Countryside

You're off to the city of Aix-en-Provence, located in southern France's Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region and famed for its Provençal charm and slow-paced lifestyle. Once the home of painter Paul Cézanne, the city is known for his paintings of the nearby peak of Montagne Sainte-Victoire. Due to the historic fountains found at nearly every turn, it's also often referred to as the "City of a Thousand Fountains."

In the morning, meet your driver for the scenic, three-hour drive, arriving at your accommodations at the Hotel Le Pigonnet, a luxury boutique hotel that sits less than a mile from the city center. This 18th-century Provençal mansion sits nestled in a peaceful garden, with tastefully decorated rooms that offer options for private terraces or sun decks over the garden. Once you've checked in and dropped off your luggage, meet your guide for a private excursion to some local wineries.

Head east of Aix-en-Provence to the Côtes de Provence Sainte-Victoire vineyards, considered to have some of the country's best natural soil and elements for grape-growing. The drying effects of the cool mistral wind patterns, alongside shallow soils formed by limestone and argillaceous sandstone, create the perfect environment for high-quality wines. Stop at two different estates, touring the facilities and learning more about the winemaking process. Finish with a tasting of the different wine varietals, including syrah, cinsault, cabernet sauvignon, and rosé. 

Day 11: Visit the Villages & Markets of the Luberon

Venture into the countryside again today to explore the charming villages and markets of the Luberon region, a massif in Central Provence consisting of three mountain ranges, the Lesser, Greater, and Eastern Luberon. Your private guide will meet you after breakfast, and you'll make your way along gently rolling hills and quiet country roads, making your first stop at the village of L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue. Home to antique stores and weekend markets, this lovely village sits on the Sorgue River at the base of the Vaucluse plateau. You'll have time to stroll along the canals or visit the open-air market if you happen to be there on a Sunday.

Next up is the delightful hilltop village of Gordes, home to rustic houses lodged against the mountainside, winding cobblestone streets, and an impressive 10th-century château. You can have lunch at a local café or catch the weekday market, depending on the day. Stop for some pictures at the nearby Senanque Abbey, an exquisite 12th-century Cistercian abbey, then continue to the village of Fontaine de Vaucluse, where the Sorgue shimmers in shades of turquoise and sheer limestone walls rise on all sides.

End your busy day in Lourmarin, famous for its striking Renaissance castle. You'll have time to visit the castle, or you can stop for a beverage at one of the many cafés and restaurants, many of which offer lovely outdoor spaces along the cobbled streets. Return to Aix-en-Provence for the evening, enjoying dinner at your hotel or taking a stroll around town.

Day 12: Transfer to Marseille, Tour the Highlights of Marseille & Cassis 

Meet your driver this morning and transfer under an hour south to the coast, where you'll spend today touring Marseille, a lively port town and the oldest city in France. Originally founded by Greek settlers in 600 BC, Marseille quickly became the primary commercial port of the French Republic. Today, the city is still known for its Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishermen sell their catch every morning, as well as its lively nightlife.

Start with a visit to the imposing Romanesque-Byzantine basilica of Notre-Dame de la Garde, then continue to Le Panier (The Basket), the city's oldest quarter. Walk the steep streets here, noting the basket-like shape of the district. See the Left Bank's famed Bar de la Marine, the setting for writer Marcel Pagnol's trilogy, "Marius, Fanny, and César," and the many jazz clubs, discos, and piano bars around the area. End your tour at the Mucem (Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean), where you can learn more about Mediterranean history. 

You'll also stop in nearby Cassis, a coastal gem known as "Little Saint-Tropez." Here, you can visit the oldest winery in Provence, sampling crisp whites and pale rosés, or take a hike to the UNESCO-listed white cliffs and turquoise waters of Calanques National Park. After the tour, your driver will drop you at the Hôtel Dieu Intercontinental, a grand property atop the city's Panier Hill. The hotel stands within a classified historic monument, and rooms feature decor by Jean-Philippe Nuel, a leading name in luxury hotel design. There are options for private terraces, a gorgeous private spa, and a chic, on-site brasserie.

Day 13: Explore the Frioul Islands by Boat, Dinner at Une Table au Sud

You'll spend your final full day in France in style as you board a private boat and cruise out to the Frioul archipelago, a group of four islands located just off the coast. The islands are known for their secluded beaches, and your captain can tailor your experience to suit your desires, whether you're interested in swimming, snorkeling in the clear waters, or relaxing on the sand. Visit sites such as Hospital Caroline on the island of Ratonneau, once used as a quarantine station for travelers, and the Château d'If, mentioned in Alexandre Dumas' tale "The Count of Monte Cristo." 

Return to port in time for dinner at Une Table au Sud, a Michelin-starred restaurant in the Marseille Old Port district. Enjoy a five-course menu featuring regional specialties, gorgeous sunset views across the water, and, of course, plenty of refreshing local wine. 

Day 14: Depart Marseille

It's time to say goodbye to historic, romantic France. Your driver will transfer you to the airport where your departing flight awaits. Au revoir! 

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