Journeys: Highlights of France

Arrive at any time. There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting. We recommended arriving a day or two early to fully explore this world-renowned city. The "City of Lights" is unlike any other place on earth. Known for its glorious monuments, museums, and markets, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, Montmartre to the Marais, Paris has something for everyone. Discover for yourself Paris’ “je ne sais quoi.”

Travel to Giverny for an enchanting visit to artist Claude Monet's garden (seasonal*), inspiration for his famed series of water lily paintings and declared one of National Geographic's “top 10 most magnificent gardens in the world.” Continue to the pretty port town of Honfleur for a National Geographic Expedition Leader led walk and some free time in this historic harbour where the Seine River meets the English Channel. This evening, arrive in Bayeux and enjoy a dinner at a local crêperie. *Monet Gardens is closed from Nov 1 through April 1 yearly. As a result, any departures falling over that time will alternatively visit the Musée de l'Orangerie. At this premiere Gallery in Paris you can view Monet's Waterlilies and many other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings from a number of famed artists.

Depart Paris for Upper Normandy and the quaint village of Giverny. Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked here from 1883 until his death in 1926. Monet felt that his flower and water gardens here were his greatest works of art and to this day, they are meticulously maintained. These served as inspiration for his celebrated water-lily series and have been named by National Geographic as one of the "10 most magnificent gardens in the world." Honfleur sits on the estuary where the River Seine meets the English Channel and is considered one of the prettiest port towns in France. Its quaint harbour and historic buildings have always been a draw for artists, including Monet.

Delve into World War II history alongside a recognized war historian. Gain insights during a lecture on the Allied invasion of Normandy, and examine and handle wartime relics such as vintage weapons, uniforms, and maps at a local museum. Then board a transport vehicle and head to Secqueville-en-Bessin War Cemetery to learn about the significance of poppies—the ultimate emblem of military sacrifice. This afternoon, conjure scenes of the D-Day landing at notable Normandy sites including Omaha Beach, the cratered cliff-top at Pointe du Hoc, and the American cemetery and memorial. Take in scenes of the D-Day landing which had a pivotal role in the history of the world.

Visit the moving memorials and beaches and learn about the impact this event had on the direction of the Second World War. The Battle of Normandy Historical Area is considered an open-air museum and includes all the sites, museums and memorials associated with D-Day and the invasion. Old army bunkers and war relics still exist along the five beaches: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword, while museums and memorials throughout the region stand as forceful reminders of this decisive period of WWII. Nearly 30 cemeteries (including American, British, Canadian, French, German and Polish) hold the remains of almost 100,000 young soldiers who never returned from their service in Normandy. Today these memorials offer quiet space for personal reflection for every visitor, young or old, regardless of nationality.

Go on an excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel, an island commune off the coast of Normandy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the medieval fortress dates to the 8th century and is considered one of Europe’s most stunning and imposing sites. Get your bearings on an National Geographic Expedition Leader led orientation walk and then explore on your own. Opt to visit the abbey, monastery, or museums, or simply wander the winding lanes and cobblestone streets.

Enjoy a free day to explore Bayeux and its medieval centre. Amble along its quaint streets, taking in the local scene at shops and cafés. Then opt to visit the 11th-century Cathedral of Bayeux, a Norman-Romanesque architectural gem, and see the famed Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy.

Please note the Bayeux Tapestry will be closed for 18 months for renovations beginning September 2025.

Depart for riverside Rouen and set out around the port city on foot. Discover the beautiful city centre, noted for its Gothic churches and medieval half-timbered houses, and hear about its place in history as the place where Joan of Arc was tried for heresy. Enjoy free time here before heading back to Paris to spend the rest of the day at your leisure exploring the City of Lights. Rouen was an important city in the Roman era and Middle Ages, showcased by its historical (and beautiful) centre of Gothic churches and medieval half-timbered houses. it is most notable as the place where Joan of Arc was tried for heresy.

Enjoy a National Geographic Expedition Leader led orientation walk this morning in the medieval centre of Paris, where you'll stroll by legendary sites like the Pyramide du Louvre, the Pont Neuf, the Conciergerie, and the majestic Notre Dame de Paris. Afterwards, indulge in a guided lunch presentation of French wine and cheese pairings, then take advantage of more free time to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre.

Later this afternoon and evening, you are free to explore on your own to discover the “je ne sais quoi” of this stunning city. Opt to visit the Eiffel Tower, explore the city's outstanding museums and churches, or simply people-watch. Please note, pre-bookings are required for most optional activities, with tickets being available for purchase virtually.

• Eiffel Tower Visit: Visit the most famous landmark in France, the Eiffel Tower. Opt to climb the stairs or take an elevator to the top for a stunning view over the city. Hang out at dusk and watch the tower light up.
• Musée d'Orsay Visit: Tour through The Musée d'Orsay, a must-see museum in Paris. Housed in a former train station, the beautiful building is the perfect setting to display some of the world's most revered Impressionist art. Wander from room to room in awe at the works on display by Monet, Renoir, Cézanne and Gauguin. Marvel at Degas' ballerinas and Van Gogh's swirling colours.
• Sacre Coeur Visit: Visit the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, located in the Montmartre neighbourhood. This Roman Catholic church was completed in 1914 and stands on the highest point of the city. Climb up 200 stairs to reach the dome of the basilica to get an amazing view of the Paris skyline.
• The Louvre Visit: Examine the massive collection at the Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa and the Winged Venus. While it might take a lifetime to view everything in the museum, one of the largest in the world, make the most of the time you have and try to spend at least a few hours wandering around. (12-16 EUR per person)

Enjoy a free day to explore Paris on your own. Discover 19th-century glass-roofed arcades like Galerie Vivienne, visit artistic gems like the Musée de l'Orangerie, or simply relax at a café in La Butte-aux-Cailles. Then, reconnect with fellow travellers and your Expedition Leader this evening.

Board a high-speed train from Paris, watching the urban landscape fade into rolling green countryside as you speed toward the Loire Valley. Transfer to the historic river town of Blois for an orientation walk past half-timbered houses and royal plazas, including free time for lunch on your own at a local bistro. Continue to Château de Cheverny for a self-guided walk through furnished rooms untouched by time, seasonal gardens in full bloom, and kennels still home to the château's working hounds. Arrive at your hotel with for free time before dinner tonight.

Begin the day in the riverside village of Amboise, following your National Geographic Expedition Leader along historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries. Next, head to Château de Chenonceau, an estate that stretches across the river Cher on a series of stone arches. Meet a local historian for a tour through grand arched galleries, rich Renaissance tapestries, and manicured gardens, learning about the women whose ambition and influence shaped its royal past. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening, with freedom to seek out a local spot for dinner.

Spend the morning at a family-run winery where the owners welcome you into their vineyards. Walk among the vines, learn about soil health and traditional harvest methods, and taste regional vintages over lunch. Afterward, head to Chisseaux to board a guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River, gliding beneath the arches of Château de Chenonceau. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for a quiet evening and optional dinner with your group.

Board a train south to Bordeaux, a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through wide pedestrian squares and past impressive limestone facades. Pause for lunch at a local café before some free time. Afterwards, head to the Cité du Vin museum, moving through its interactive exhibits before stepping out onto the Belvedere for a glass of wine and 360-degree city views.

After breakfast, set off to Saint-Émilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Step beneath the cobblestone streets with a local guide for an underground tour of the monolithic church and dark catacombs carved into the rock. Break for lunch on your own before continuing to a winery. Here, join a private tour of the estate and its stone-vaulted cellars, sampling regional Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion wines before returning to Bordeaux for a free evening.

Travel west to Arcachon on the Atlantic coast to encounter the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. Climb to the top alongside your Expedition Leader for sweeping views over deep pine forests and ocean waves. Later, head into seaside Arcachon for an orientation walk along the waterfront promenade and an included lunch. Return to Bordeaux for a final evening together, gathering for an optional dinner featuring regional specialties.

Board a high-speed train and travel south through the French countryside toward Bayonne. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for a walk through Bayonne's historic heart, tracing the stone ramparts engineered by Vauban. View the soaring spires of Gothic St. Marie's Cathedral and follow the timber-framed medieval streets of Greater Bayonne. Continue to seaside Biarritz for a free evening.

Begin the morning alongside your National Geographic Expedition Leader on a walk through the bustling Les Halles Market in Biarritz. Then, venture inland into the green fields and rolling hills of the Basque Pyrenees. Visit a local farm in Espelette to learn about the town's famous fiery red peppers and taste traditional specialties. Break for lunch on your own in Espelette before visiting St. Jean Pied de Port, a fortified medieval town set against the mountain foothills.

Travel from Biarritz to Pau, a city sitting high above the Gave de Pau river, framed by distant Pyrenean peaks. Join your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through the historic centre, pausing along the Boulevard des Pyrénées for sweeping mountain views before heading into the bustle of Les Halles market. Settle in for an included lunch of fresh regional specialties. The remainder of the day is free to explore on your own or consider an optional visit to the Château de Pau, birthplace of King Henry IV.

Set out after breakfast and head through the lush Pyrenean foothills from Pau to Lourdes. Upon arrival, join your guide to explore the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, a sacred pilgrimage site set against the mountains. Walk past the Neo-Gothic Basilica of the Immaculate Conception perched dramatically above the grotto, view the intricate mosaics of the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, and descend into the vast Underground Basilica of Saint Pius X, built to hold thousands of pilgrims. Afterward, head into Lourdes town to enjoy lunch on your own before returning to Pau.

Spend another morning taking in the mountain vistas surrounding Lescar on a relaxing walk. Transfer to Gan to delve deeper into the secret Jurançon wine district, known for its rich history and small-scale producers. Meet with local winemakers to walk through their vine rows, step into quiet cellars, and sample regional vintages alongside a light lunch of local produce. Return to Pau, where the evening is yours to spend as you like.

This morning, head east toward Toulouse, the vibrant "Pink City" known for its rosy terra-cotta brick architecture. Upon arrival, step out with your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through grand plazas, past historic churches, and along the banks of the Garonne River. The rest of the afternoon and evening are completely yours to discover cozy neighbourhood cafés, visit local museums, or explore the sunny riverside promenade. In the evening enjoy an included dinner.

Walk with your Expedition Leader from the hotel to the bustling Victor Hugo Market, where the air carries the scent of ripening cheese and fresh bread. Follow a guided food tour through the stalls, meeting vendors who know every wheel and cure by name, tasting local cheeses, meats, and regional treats along the way. Afterwards enjoy a free afternoon to explore Toulouse at your own pace. In the evening perhaps gather with your group for an optional dinner.

After breakfast, travel to Nîmes, where Roman history weaves seamlessly through everyday French life. Step onto historic cobbled streets with your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through the town's restored centre. Stand before the ancient Arènes de Nîmes, one of the world's best-preserved Roman amphitheatres, its stone tiers still echoing with two thousand years of games and gatherings. Continue to the Maison Carrée, a UNESCO World Heritage Roman temple whose towering columns have stood, largely unchanged. After that, enjoy some free time to explore at your own pace. Later, continue to Avignon for the evening.

Set out on a morning walking tour alongside a local guide to learn Avignon's history, visiting the majestic cathedral and the iconic, stone-arched Pont d'Avignon, its broken span still reaching partway across the Rhône. Share a lunch at a local restaurant on the bustling Place de l'Horloge, watching town life pass by beneath shade trees. In the afternoon, explore the massive Gothic halls and quiet courtyards of the Palais des Papes. Stroll back to your hotel for a relaxing evening free to wander quiet lanes or stop at a cozy neighbourhood cafe.

Catch a morning train from Avignon to Arles, stepping out into a city shaped by its Roman roots and artistic spirit. Walk to the Frank Gehry-designed tower at the LUMA museum, moving through its contemporary arts campus. Continue to the Arles Amphitheatre, imagining gladiatorial games inside its ancient stone arches. Next, join a local guide through Arles Old Town, stopping for coffee at the Van Gogh Café, its yellow facade still recognizable from the painter's own canvas. Tonight, head to a local court to try your hand at pétanque–a classic French lawn game while sipping pastis, an anise-flavoured apéritif.

Drive through rolling hills to Saint-Rémy-de-Provence for its famed weekly market. Thread through stalls filled with fragrant soaps, woven baskets, cured meats, and sun-ripened olives, chatting with local vendors as you browse. Afterward, transfer to the hilltop village of Les Baux-de-Provence. Join a local guide to wander through narrow medieval stone alleyways, pausing for pictures and browsing artisan boutiques perched high above limestone cliffs, before returning to Arles for the evening.

Head south into the wild wetlands of the Camargue. Board an open-air train through the Salines d'Aigues-Mortes, where the salt basins glow rose-pink from the minerals that colour the marsh, and learn how sea salt has been harvested here for generations. Continue to the coastal village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer for an orientation walk with your Expedition Leader, feeling the Mediterranean sea breeze along the promenade. Head back to Arles, where the remainder of your afternoon and evening are free to spend as you wish.

Transfer to Aix-en-Provence, a town known for its moss-covered fountains and leafy boulevards. Dive straight into a Provençal market, weaving past stalls laden with antiques, textiles, fresh flowers, and seasonal produce. Take some free time for lunch before joining a guided walking tour through the historic centre. Spend the rest of the day at your own pace, perhaps finding hidden courtyards, relaxing at an outdoor terrace, or visiting Paul Cézanne's studio (Atelier de Cézanne) on your own.

Begin the morning with a guided visit to a traditional Fabrique de Calissons, learning how Aix's signature sweet is crafted from ground almonds and candied melon. Break for lunch on your own, then enjoy a free afternoon to follow your interests, perhaps visiting local art galleries, shopping for regional ceramics, or lingering over coffee in a quiet square. Tonight, gather with your group for an optional final dinner.

Depart at any time. We recommend staying a few extra days to experience all this city has to offer.