France Magnifique

Bienvenue en France, and to charming Versailles. Celebrate the beginning of your voyage with a savory French dinner in the culturally rich town of Versailles. (D) Stay: Le Louis Versailles Chateau - MGallery (2 Nights)

Start your day with an exploration of the iconic Palace of Versailles (UNESCO). A guide will lead you through the Private Apartments of King Louis XIV, the Sun King, who transformed his father's hunting lodge into the resplendent seat of the Royal Court.

Continue your visit independently through the lavish State Apartments. From the prominent Hall of Mirrors to the opulent bedchamber of the queen, take in Versailles' most famous sights at your own pace.

This afternoon your exploration continues in the palace's grandiose formal gardens, where the Baroque fountains regularly spout water to the tune of classical music. (B)

Journey into Normandy and let the art scene leave its impression on you with a visit to Monet's countryside home at Giverny. Stroll through the colorful living work of art that is Monet's garden, where you'll see the source for the artist's inspiration, including the setting for his iconic Waterlilies. Then, set off through the rich pasturelands of Normandy to the city of Caen, your home for the next 2 nights. (B/D) Stay: Best Western Plus Le Moderne (2 Nights)

This morning, explore the Caen Peace Memorial Museum dedicated to providing a comprehensive history of the D-Day landings and Europe's post-war transition. Then, pay your respects at the Normandy American Cemetery & Visitor Center. See the stars and stripes raised over the graves of the valiant soldiers who gave their lives in the Battle of Normandy, and stop at Omaha Beach.

Next, make your way to Sainte-Mère-Église, the heart of the American Airborne operations on D-Day, and visit its parachute-shaped Airborne Museum. Learn the unique history of paratroopers in Saint-Mère-Église, the first French town liberated from the Nazis. Then, return to Caen. (B)

Your exploration of the D-Day Landing Sites continues today and will start with a walk through Pointe du Hoc Ranger Memorial. See where the 2nd Ranger Battalion scaled 100-foot cliffs on D-Day to seize the fortified enemy position. Then visit Arromanches-les-Bain to see the remains of the artificial Mulberry port built by the Allies to resupply their lines during the liberation of France.

After some free time to have lunch on your own, pause at a local farm. Stroll through their apple orchards and get a taste of their traditional cider. Then it's off to Saint-Malo, Brittany's famous coastal village. Immerse yourself in the beautiful beaches, striking blue water, and views of the fortified Old Town.

Tonight, enjoy a freshly prepared local dinner. (B/D) Stay: Hotel Oceania (2 Nights)

Travel to Le Mont St. Michel (UNESCO), the “Wonder of the West.” Resting on the border between Normandy and Brittany, this world-famous pilgrimage site sits on the edge of the sea and becomes an island at high tide. Take in the breathtaking views as you stroll through the old village at the base of the Abbey before exploring one of the most beautiful monastic complexes in France, dating back to the 11th century. Return to Saint-Malo and enjoy time to relax or explore independently. (B)

Journey south to the Loire Valley, a UNESCO site brimming with châteaux and parks. Arrive in the medieval village of Chinon. Joan of Arc first met young Charles VII here and shared her vision that he would defeat the English during the Hundred Years' War. Visit the market, abundant with fresh produce, flowers and local products, and take time to enjoy lunch along the banks of the Vienne River. Next, tour a local winery and discover some of the Loire Valley's best wines.

This afternoon, feel like royalty when you arrive at your 15th-century castle accommodations at the Château de Beauvois. Delve into the history of this site frequented by King Louis XIII as you enjoy some leisure time to explore the grounds or relax on the château's charming terrace.

This evening, delight in gourmet French cuisine in the opulent dining room of your château. (B/D) Stay: Château de Beauvois (2 Nights)

Explore the spectacular Château de Chenonceau at your own pace. Perched along the banks of the Cher River, this romantic castle is a jewel of Renaissance architecture. Head to the picturesque center of Amboise. Enjoy some free time for exploring before reaching Tours, where a local expert will introduce you to the town and their local culture. (B)

Travel the French countryside to France's capital, the City of Light – Paris. Pause for lunch at a modern bistro, before gliding under romantic bridges during a scenic cruise along the Seine River. Take in the city's most iconic landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Conciergerie, and Île Saint-Louis peeking at you from the banks of the Seine (UNESCO).

As your day comes to a close, make the most of an evening at leisure in this incredibly walkable, world-famous city. Perhaps you will enjoy an optional dinner at the dynamic Paradis Latin for a champagne-flowing, can-can kicking, music-driven night at the cabaret. (B/L) Stay: Hyatt Regency Étoile (2 Nights)

This morning, it's your choice! Take in the most iconic sights of Paris on a panoramic city tour, seeing the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Place de la Concorde -OR- join a local guide and hop on Le Métro to the hilltop neighborhood of Montmartre and its iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Take advantage of a free afternoon to write your own story in romantic Paris.

This evening, celebrate the conclusion of your French voyage during an exclusive dinner at the Eiffel Tower, featuring French cuisine and panoramic views of the City of Light. (B/D)

Set out for home with many magnificent memories. (B)