Luxury French Chateaux and Paris Experience
Follow the wine trail to luxurious French chateaux
Spoil yourself with a special trip to France and experience the luxurious Chateaux of the Loire Valley! This self-drive vacation offers you access to some of the most elegant properties throughout the French countryside from Le Choiseul to Chateau d'Esclimont. After, you'll visit the City of Light and explore its most famous offerings.
What's Included
- Roundtrip Economy Class Airfare into and out of Paris (CDG)
- Manual economy car rental for the duration of your stay in the Loire Valley - upgrade to automatic available for an additional cost
- 3 nights in the Loire Valley at the Chateau d’Artigny, or similar
- A 50-minute cruise on the Cher River
- Wine tasting with regional specialties at Les Caves Duhard
- Tickets to the light show at Blois Castle
- 3 nights in Paris at Hotel Belloy St. Germain, or similar
- Tickets for Paris Coach City Tour with HistoPad + Cruise Ticket on the Seine
- Breakfast daily
Click here to add three nights in London!
Great Ways to Explore
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Immerse yourself in the Loire Valley! Explore the many picturesque towns and villages dotted around this unique region.
Having a rental car allows you to plan your itinerary, and enjoy the scenic views as you travel in comfort, at your pace.
-
The Eiffel Tower becomes an illuminated wonder in the evenings; visit between sunset and 2 AM for spectacular views.
-
Lose track of time with a stroll through the picturesque Gardens of Versailles.
-
One of the oldest Parisian bakeries, Poilane, still makes their sourdough bread in a wood-fired oven. Pay them a visit and taste the difference!
A vacation dripping with romance and inspiration, this French getaway is perfect for a couples' retreat or a grand getaway with your closest friends. Enjoy accommodations in the Loire Valley, and Paris as you sightsee, taste, and cruise your way through some of Europe's most beautiful locations.
During your stay in the Loire Valley, you'll visit French Chateaux, explore castles, and visit wineries. Drift away on a dreamy cruise down the River Cher and follow in the footsteps of France's greatest kings as you tour royal residences. Next, you'll drive to Paris for a panoramic coach tour and a cruise along the Seine. You'll have a chance to see the Louvre, visit Versailles, and even stop by the Palais Garnier.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
- Roundtrip Economy Class Airfare into and out of Paris (CDG)
- Manual economy car rental for the duration of your stay in the Loire Valley - upgrade to automatic available for an additional cost
- 3 nights in the Loire Valley at the Chateau d’Artigny, or similar
- A 50-minute cruise on the Cher River
- Wine tasting with regional specialties at Les Caves Duhard
- Tickets to the light show at Blois Castle
- 3 nights in Paris at Hotel Belloy St. Germain, or similar
- Tickets for Paris Coach City Tour with HistoPad + Cruise Ticket on the Seine
- Breakfast daily
-
Immerse yourself in the Loire Valley! Explore the many picturesque towns and villages dotted around this unique region.
Having a rental car allows you to plan your itinerary, and enjoy the scenic views as you travel in comfort, at your pace.
-
The Eiffel Tower becomes an illuminated wonder in the evenings; visit between sunset and 2 AM for spectacular views.
-
Lose track of time with a stroll through the picturesque Gardens of Versailles.
-
One of the oldest Parisian bakeries, Poilane, still makes their sourdough bread in a wood-fired oven. Pay them a visit and taste the difference!
A vacation dripping with romance and inspiration, this French getaway is perfect for a couples' retreat or a grand getaway with your closest friends. Enjoy accommodations in the Loire Valley, and Paris as you sightsee, taste, and cruise your way through some of Europe's most beautiful locations.
During your stay in the Loire Valley, you'll visit French Chateaux, explore castles, and visit wineries. Drift away on a dreamy cruise down the River Cher and follow in the footsteps of France's greatest kings as you tour royal residences. Next, you'll drive to Paris for a panoramic coach tour and a cruise along the Seine. You'll have a chance to see the Louvre, visit Versailles, and even stop by the Palais Garnier.
Please note that some recommendations in the following suggested itinerary may not be included in your package. Check What's Included above for full details on inclusions.
Day 1. Welcome to the Loire Valley!
Touch down in Paris and hop into your rental car to begin your vacation!Â
In about 2.5 hours, you'll reach the Estate of Chambord - a national game reserve the size of Paris itself. Make a stop to explore Chateau de Chambord, one of the most recognizable chateaux in the world. This majestic castle was commissioned by King Francis I and incepted by Leonardo da Vinci.
After you've visited one of the highlights of the Loire Valley, make your way to your hotel for check-in.Â
Check-in - Chateau d’Artigny
Day 2. Loire Valley
Tuck into an energizing breakfast, then set off for a day of castles and countryside. Consider a visit to Chateau de Chenonceau: a gem of the Loire Valley. Nicknamed "the ladies' castle," Chenonceau was protected and cared for prominent French women such as Diane de Poitiers and Catherine de' Medici. After, enjoy a 50-minute cruise at Chisseaux and soak up unsurpassable views of the countryside.Â
This afternoon, visit the historical Chateau of Amboise and its beautiful gardens. Finish your day with a wine tasting in Les Caves Duhard.
Day 3. Loire Valley
Spend the day in the western part of the Touraine region. Visit the fortress of Azay le Rideau and the Chateau de Villandry. Of all the Loire Valley Gardens, the most spectacular can be found at the Chateau de Villandry.
Consider a lunch stop in Tours, where you can wander historic quarters and visit places like the Place Plumereau and Saint-Gatien Cathedral. After dark, don't miss The Story of Blois - one of the first light and sound shows in the courtyard of a French chateau Blois.
Day 4. Loire Valley - Paris
Enjoy your breakfast on the run so you have time to visit  Cheverny Castle before making the 2.5-hour drive back to Paris. Upon arrival, return your rental car, check into your new hotel, and treat yourself to a relaxing evening in the city.Â
Conveniently situated on the Left Bank, Hotel Belloy St Germain is a 4 star boutique hotel that reflects the style of "old Paris." All 50 guestrooms evoke traditional French elegance, while also offering modern comforts such as soundproof rooms, free high speed internet, air conditioning and concierge services. Complete with a cozy library and beautiful bar, this property will give travelers a taste of traditional Paris.
The Hotel Plaza Tour Eiffel is a 4-star boutique hotel in the heart of a quiet residential area. It is a short stroll from numerous attractions, shops, and restaurants. Enjoy the assistance and the expert advice of our friendly team, so that you can more easily discover Paris and its many treasures.
Day 5. Paris
Linger over a sumptuous Parisian breakfast, then make your way toward Port de la Bourdonnais for a 1.5-hour panoramic coach tour with Histopad tablet. After, enjoy a 1-hour cruise along the Seine. This is the perfect introduction to Paris for first-timers and a fun way for returning travelers to brush up on the history of the city's districts, monuments, and landmarks.
Today, you may consider a visit to the Louvre to see s the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory of Samothrace, the timeless work of Da Vinci's 'The Mona Lisa' and many others!
A Tip For Your Trip: Buy yourself a 2-day metro pass while you're in Paris. It's the easiest way to get around the city.
Day 6. Paris
Today, you'll embark on a day trip to Versailles. This world-famous palace dates back to 1038 and was the official residence for France's kings from 1682-1790. It is best known for its perfectly manicured gardens.
Later, see Paris on foot! Indulge your curiosity with an exploration of the city center and be sure to make your way to any attractions you want to include on your trip. The Palais Garnier is a must-see!Â
Day 7. Depart France
It's time to pack your bags and make your way to the airport to catch your flight home!
Fly home!
Where available, the Flexible Change Plan allows you to change your travel date for ANY reason (between 30 days and 14 days before planned departure). You will receive a Future Travel Credit for the entire amount you paid. Please note that prepaid instant purchase airfares and group airfare are not eligible for the Flexible Change Plan and are subject to airline-imposed change or cancellation fees based on airline rules at the time that the change is requested. You must rebook using the original air carrier at least 14 days prior to your originally scheduled departure and complete travel at least 1 year from original booking date. Additional fees may apply. Future travel credit is non-transferable, non-refundable, and may not be redeemed for cash.