Spring
The Heart of France: From Paris to Provence
Fully Guided Tour – Join your Daniel’s Tour Guide and private group at the Daniel’s Tour Depot in North Georgia to begin this Fully Guided Tour to France. Discover the Heart of France: From Paris to Provence…with a Pre-Tour to Normandy available. This journey blends France’s great cities, regional flavors, history, and relaxed Mediterranean beauty into one seamless, thoughtfully paced guided tour experience. Full Pricing to be announced on Daniel’s Discovery Tour’s website this summer.
DAY 1: OVERNIGHT FLIGHT TO PARIS: Your journey begins as you board your overnight flight bound for Europe, the first step toward discovering the elegance of Paris, the culinary capital of Lyon, and the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence. Settle in, relax, and enjoy the anticipation as you cross the Atlantic toward one of the world’s most captivating regions.
DAY 2: WELCOME TO PARIS: Upon arrival in Paris, you’ll be welcomed at the airport and transferred to your hotel in the charming Montmartre district. After checking in and settling into your rooms, you’ll have some time to freshen up and relax after the flight. Montmartre is one of the most atmospheric neighborhoods in the city, known for its artistic history and lively cafés. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant. Enjoy a relaxed three-course meal as you celebrate the start of your journey together. B, D
DAY 3: EIFEL TOWER, LOUVRE, AND NOTRE DAME: Meet your guide in the hotel lobby this morning and depart by coach for a full day exploring Paris. A panoramic tour introduces you to many of the city’s most famous landmarks while your guide shares stories of the capital’s rich history. You’ll visit the Eiffel Tower and ascend to the top to enjoy sweeping views across the rooftops and monuments of Paris. After free time for lunch, continue with a guided walking tour around Notre-Dame and the historic heart of the city, discovering charming streets and historic façades. Later, enjoy a guided visit to the Louvre Museum to see masterpieces including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. This evening, return to the Montmartre neighborhood for a three-course dinner at a nearby restaurant. B, D
DAY 4: VERSAILLES AND MONTMARTRE: This morning you’ll depart by coach for the magnificent Château de Versailles, one of the grandest royal residences in Europe. During your guided visit you’ll explore the palace interior, including the famous Hall of Mirrors and the royal apartments once used by French kings and queens. Depending on the season, you’ll also enjoy a visit through the beautifully designed palace gardens. After lunch at a local restaurant in Versailles, return to Paris for an afternoon exploring Montmartre. Your guide will lead you through this historic hilltop district, including Place du Tertre and the Sacré-Cœur Basilica with its panoramic views over the city. The evening is free for you to enjoy dinner and explore Paris at your own pace. B, L
DAY 5: LYON: After breakfast, check out of the hotel and transfer to the train station for your high-speed TGV journey to Lyon. Traveling first class, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride through the French countryside. Upon arrival in Lyon, meet your local guide and transfer into the historic district of Vieux Lyon. A walking tour introduces you to the city’s Renaissance architecture, hidden traboules passageways, and the impressive Saint-Jean Cathedral. A ride on the funicular brings you up to Fourvière Hill for a beautiful panoramic view over the city. This evening, enjoy dinner at a traditional bouchon Lyonnais where you’ll sample classic regional dishes. B, D
DAY 6: CROIX-ROUSSE AND SILK WORKSHOP: Today you’ll explore the historic Croix-Rousse district with your guide. This neighborhood was once the center of Lyon’s famous silk industry and home to the skilled silk workers known as the canuts. During your visit, you’ll explore the steep streets and visit a traditional silk workshop where you’ll see demonstrations of this historic craft. After a three-course lunch at a local restaurant, the afternoon and evening are free for you to explore the city at your own pace. You may wish to stroll along the rivers, browse local shops, or relax at a café. Tonight you’ll enjoy a memorable dinner cruise on the river with beautiful views of Lyon by evening light. B, L, D
DAY 7: AIX-EN-PROVENCE: This morning you’ll check out of the hotel and transfer to the train station for another high-speed journey south. Traveling first class once again, you’ll arrive in Aix-en-Provence, one of the most elegant towns in southern France. Your local guide will meet you at the station and transfer you to the city center. A guided walking tour introduces you to Aix’s charming streets, historic squares, and beautiful fountains. The city is closely associated with the painter Paul Cézanne and retains a relaxed Provençal atmosphere. After checking into your hotel, enjoy a three-course dinner at a nearby restaurant. B, D
DAY 8: AVIGNON: Today’s excursion takes you by coach to the historic city of Avignon. Your guided tour explores the impressive Palais des Papes, once the seat of the Catholic Church during the 14th century. You’ll also walk through the medieval streets and visit the famous Pont d’Avignon, one of the region’s best-known landmarks. After free time for lunch, continue into the Rhône Valley for a visit to a local wine estate. Here you’ll tour the cellars and learn about the region’s wines before enjoying a guided tasting. Later in the afternoon, return to Aix-en-Provence where the evening is free for dinner. B
DAY 9: ARLES AND PONT DU GARD: This morning you’ll depart by coach for the historic town of Arles. During a guided visit you’ll discover the city’s remarkable Roman heritage, including the impressive Roman arena and ancient theater. Arles also inspired many of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings during his time in Provence. After free time for lunch, continue to the Pont du Gard. This massive Roman aqueduct has stood for nearly two thousand years and remains one of the most impressive engineering achievements of the ancient world. After a guided visit, return to Aix-en-Provence with the evening free for dinner. B
DAY 10: MARSEILLE AND CALANQUES: Your final full day begins with a journey to the vibrant port city of Marseille. During a guided tour you’ll explore the historic Vieux Port, the colorful streets of the Le Panier district, and the hilltop Notre-Dame de la Garde Basilica with its sweeping views over the Mediterranean. After time for lunch, you’ll continue to the charming seaside town of Cassis. From here you’ll board a boat for a cruise through the stunning Calanques, known for their dramatic limestone cliffs and turquoise waters. These beautiful coastal coves are accessible only by sea and offer some of the most breathtaking scenery in southern France. This evening, return to Aix-en-Provence for a farewell dinner celebrating the end of your journey. B, D
DAY 11: DEPART FOR HOME: After breakfast, check out of the hotel and prepare for your journey home. A private transfer will take you to Marseille Airport for your departing flight. As your tour comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences shared throughout Paris, Lyon, and the beautiful landscapes of Provence. From historic cities and world-famous landmarks to exceptional cuisine and scenic countryside, this journey offers memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage and safe travels home! B
DISCOVER NORMANDY Pre-Tour Available – with a May 15, 2027 Departure Experience Normandy at its most powerful, brought to life through its defining moments and iconic sites, with three magical evenings based in the historic city of Bayeux. Walk the historic D-Day Landing Beaches, including Omaha and Utah, and reflect at the American Cemetery, then explore the story-filled village of Sainte-Mère-Église. Take in the breathtaking beauty of Mont-Saint-Michel and its abbey, one of France’s most iconic sights, before continuing to Giverny to experience the gardens that inspired Claude Monet. This pre-tour blends powerful history, striking landscapes, and cultural depth into one seamless experience. You’ll arrive in Paris for a restful overnight before joining your Daniels Discovery Travel Group as your France tour gets underway!
Full Pricing to be announced on Daniel’s Discovery Tour’s website this summer. If you are interested in this tour, call our office to get on the “Call List” and we will let you know when reservations open. Space is limited.
Daniel’s Discovery Tours offers European Tour opportunities in collaboration with International Tour Planner & Guide, Jack Bauman – Guidester Tours. These are expertly curated tours through Europe’s most captivating destinations. Experience the rich history and unique culture of beautiful destinations in Europe with centrally located premium hotels, expert local step-on guides, private transportation, visits to top attractions, local cuisine, and authentic experiences you won’t find anywhere else. With Fully Guided Tours you join your Daniel’s Tour Guide and private group at the North Georgia Daniel’s Tour Depot for a fully guided tour to Europe. We fly together to the European Gateway City and meet our International Tour Guide. These are active tours that provide fully planned itineraries with some free time.