Travel to France and explore Provence's rugged beauty and rustic charms that continue to captivate hearts. This eight day France vacation tour adventure begins in charming Avignon. A short motor-coach ride to Orange, a UNESCO world heritage site, will indoctrinate travelers in the imperial Roman past that influenced this region for centuries and is best seen in the crumbling antiquities of Nimes and Aix-en- Provence. After a history lesson, journey to the famed vineyards of the Rhone Valley to taste award- winning wines and explore unique markets and attractions in three special Provencal villages: St. Remy de Provence, Les Baux de Provence, and Arles. Then be seduced by the unfettered charm of Gordes, Roussillon, and Uzes. The fifth day of this France travel package begins with a tour of the Principality of Monaco, where visitors can indulge in the luxuriousness of Monte Carlo. Later, the small hilltop village of Eze will deliver stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and welcome you to enjoy a stroll on the warm boardwalk of Nice. Conclude the trip with a visit to the medieval village, Saint Paul de Vence, then Cannes, the glitzy beach town known for its film festival. This France vacation package will leave you mesmerized!

Arrival at Avignon railway station and transfer to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure to start discovering this lovely and charming town.

AVIGNON

Your day begins with a visit of Arles, a good example of the adaptation of an ancient city to medieval European civilization. Here, you will see the beautiful amphitheater and all sites painted by Van Gogh between 1888 and 1890. Continue your tour with a visit of Les Baux de Provence, a village set upon a rock, and of St. R&#233;my de Provence, a picturesque market town. The medieval streets of the Old Town jumble together to form a maze filled with upscale boutiques and pretty shops stocking Proven&#231;al products. Next stop will be in Orange, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After a visit of the well preserved Roman Triumphal Arch, a symbol of the Roman imperial glory, your driver will take you on a journey through the vineyards between Orange and Chateauneuf-du-Pape, where a wine tasting session of the most prestigious red wine in the Rhone Valley awaits you. Overnight in Avignon. (B)

AVIGNON I ARLES I LES BAUX DE PROVENCE I ST. RÉMY DE PROVENCE I ORANGE I AVIGNON

Morning tour of Avignon, the City of the Popes. See the Popes&#8217; Palace, the largest gothic palace in the world, and the majestic Pont d&#8217;Avignon. In the afternoon, continue to Gordes, a hilltop village in the Luberon region. Its houses and buildings of white stone root themselves into the sharp cliff of the mountain. Continue to Roussillon, a village that has seduced many artists. Its houses offer the passersby a harmony of enchanting colors, art galleries, and some very good restaurants. Overnight in Avignon. (B)

 AVIGNON I GORDES I ROUSSILLON I AVIGNON

Start with a tour of Nimes, known for its great wealth of ancient buildings. See the Pont du Gard, the majestic Roman aqueduct, the Maison Carr&#233;, a gorgeous example of a Roman Temple, and the Arena, the bestpreserved arena in France. Continue with a visit of Uz&#232;s, a charming medieval village, and self-proclaimed first duchy of France. (B)

Avignon I Nimes I Uzès I Avignon

Today visit the fountain filled Aix-en-Provence and step back in time. Vestiges of the Roman city are still visible at the Thermes Sextius spa, Gothic cloisters can be admired at the Cathedral, and sumptuous neoclassical houses that long inspired writers and artists can be seen in the Mazarin quarter. Continue to Nice and check in at your hotel. (B)

Avignon I Aix-en-Provence I Nice

Today tour the lovely town of Nice. See the Promenade des Anglais, the famous waterfront boulevard, the elegant Belle &#201;poque-style buildings, and March&#233; aux Fleurs. Afternoon at leisure. (B)

Nice

Your day is filled with exciting visits. Start with a visit of Cannes, the glitzy town known for its film festival. After a visit of Saint Paul de Vence, a medieval fortified village, we continue to the Principality of Monaco. From casinos to elegant balls, Monte Carlo has plenty of luxurious attractions to draw international jetsetters. The next stop will be the tiny village of Eze, perched on a rocky hill above the sea. With narrow cobblestone, pedestrian-only streets, wonderful views of the surrounding hills and the azure water below, it is just as it was centuries ago. After a visit of the Fragonard perfumery we head back to the hotel. (B)

Nice I Cannes I Saint Paul de Vence I Monte Carlo I Eze I Nice

Morning transfer to airport for your return flight home. (B)

Nice to the USA (or extend your stay)

PROVENCE & RIVIERA

Villefranche Sur Mer

Gordes

Avignon

Roman Amphitheatre in the Old Town of Arles

Village of Eze

This independent vacation to Paris lets you customize the ultimate trip just for you. Central Holidays tailor-created When In Paris vacation features a variety of options and additions that cater to all different budgets. Each &#8220;When In&#8221; France travel package includes accommodations per the program, and breakfast daily, as well as sightseeing, excursions, and experiential activities based on the package selected&#8230;Travel In Simplicity, Travel In Style, or Travel In Luxury. Paris, the &#8220;City of Lights&#8221;, is the capital of fashion, art, and people-watching; a city where Chanel-clad ladies walk poodles along grand boulevards; a place where the food is d&#233;licieux; a city where the nightlife is sublime. Home of croissants and French baguettes, there is no end to the breathtaking sites you can see in Paris. The Louvre Museum, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe, the Palais-Royal, and the Elysee Palace are enough to make a library of travel books...but your love affair with this amazing city will truly begin once you look beyond the Eiffel Tower and start exploring the backstreets... that&#8217;s when you'll make Paris your own!

WHEN IN PARIS

Eiffel Tower over Seine River

Montmartre

Place de la Concorde

Arc de Triomphe

National Museum of Natural History

Your 7-day France vacation package by rail begins in Paris, one of the most inspiring cities in the world. Packed with attractions and monuments, from the antique to the most modern and cosmopolitan, the city takes nothing for granted. Come and take a tour to France. Delight in an included tour of Paris' splendors - the Eiffel Tower, Palais Royal, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the designer shops along the Champs Elysees - a tree-lined beauty, full of elegant cafes, theaters and shops developed by Louis XV. Even once you've sampled the city's &#34;essential&#34; sights; you'll find an unlimited supply of culture, art, nightlife, eateries and chic shopping experiences to delay your departure. Continue your France travel package venturing along by first class rail to Normandy. This warm and hospitable region combines a 360- mile dramatic coastline, including the dramatically evocative World War II landing beaches. Here, the largest military landing in history took place on June 6, 1944. Monuments, museums, bunkers and cemeteries are a living commemoration to the Battle of Normandy. A perfect base from which to tour also many coastal resorts - the picturesque seaport of Honfleur, the tiny town of Bayeux is built around the magnificent Cathedral of Notre Dame and its famous Tapestry, the Mont St.-Michel abbey, Monet's home in Giverny and a verdant interior of lush farmland, bustling market towns and historic landmarks such as the cities of Caen and Rouen. Gastronomic delights abound, from fine cheeses to cider and Calvados. Your ideal independent trip to France is waiting!!!

DISCOVER PARIS & NORMANDY

The Cathedral Notre Dame de Bayeux 

Eiffel Tower

First Class Rail

Monet's House and Gardens

Mont St. Michel

Savor the &#8220;joie de vivre&#8221; &#8211; joy of living &#8211; on our &#8220;ultimate romance&#8221; France vacation package, featuring six blissful days in France to share with the one you love. From the glittering allure of Paris to the inspired harmony of the Chantilly Forest, our Ultimate Romance Package is the perfect treat for couples&#8230;exotic, luxurious, adventurous, and relaxing all in one. Paris greets you with a welcome bouquet of beautiful local flowers. Here you will enjoy exclusive experiences, perfect for setting romantic vibes. Join on a private guided walking tour of Saint Germain, Montmartre or Marais area. As your trip to France continues, sip on afternoon French Tea at the chic Ritz Hotel. Participate in a cheese and wine workshop, including visit of cellars accompanied by an English-speaking fromager, tasting of seven aged cheeses, and sampling of two glasses of wine. Embark on a behind the scenes guided tour of the Opera Garnier, followed by dinner with a performance from the Opera singers. This fairy-tale escape includes a two-night stay in an authentic chateau Gouvieux-Chantilly. In a country that boasts timeless beauty, unending discoveries and blissful moments, we invite you to enjoy the romantic escape of your dreams on this fabulous France vacation tour!

THE ULTIMATE ROMANCE PACKAGE

Seine River

Place des Vosges, Paris

Rooftop Restaurant with a View

Luxembourg Garden in Paris

From Normandy to the Loire Valley, explore the storied history that has sculpted these regions on this private deluxe France vacation package. Discover Caen&#8217;s fortifications, reminder of France&#8217;s 100 Years War and the French Revolution. Travel to France back in time to 1944 at the landing beaches of the Allied Forces during the D-Day Normandy invasions. Visit the island and pilgrimage site of Mont St. Michel topped by a gravity-defying medieval monastery. Savor Normandy&#8217;s delectable culinary specialties and taste acclaimed wines of the Loire Valley. Stroll the picturesque cobblestone streets and view the charming timber framed or &#8220;pan-de-bois&#8221; homes of Le Mans. Explore the grandeur of the Loire Valley&#8217;s splendid and awe-inspiring ch&#226;teaux. History and beauty will embrace the explorer in you on this unforgettable Central Holidays France travel tour.

Get ready for an exciting adventure in France with your arrival in Paris where you will meet your guide. Head out towards Normandy and stop in Giverny along the way and see Monet&#8217;s house. Arrive in the port city of Caen, founded in 1060, and enjoy a short panoramic tour. Here you will discover one of the largest fortified enclosures in Europe, a reminder of the 100 Years War and the French Revolution. Discover the relics of the Duke-King&#8217;s palace, the Church of St. George, and the Exchequer room.

Paris | Giverny | Caen

Today you will delve into history at the 1944 landing beaches of the Allied Forces during the D-Day Normandy invasions. Explore Omaha Beach and visit the American cemetery in Colleville: a site of over 170 acres housing 9,387 tombs and a wall of the missing. Next head to the Pointe du Hoc, where craters resulting from aerial bombardment underscore the famous feat carried out by US Rangers. Head to Utah Beach, one of the primary Allied invasion sites. From there you&#8217;ll proceed through Sainte Marie du Mont, before stopping in Angouville au Plain. The tour will end at Sainte Mere Eglise with a visit to the Airborne Museum. Overnight in Caen. (B)

Caen | Normandy Beaches | Sainte Marie du Mont | Angouville | Sainte Mere Eglise | Caen

The adventure continues on the island of Mont Saint Michel topped by a medieval monastery where nearly two and a half million visitors, pilgrims, and tourists are welcomed every year. After going through the Boulevard Gate and then the King&#8217;s Gate, fortified with its portcullis, you will find the &#8220;Grande Rue&#8221;, or main street, with its museums, shops and houses dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. Enjoy the beautiful view over the bay as you head down the ramparts path. Today you will have an included lunch featuring Normandy specialties before stopping in Cancale, the Oyster capital of Brittany, and then heading on to St. Malo for an evening walking tour and overnight stay. (B,L)

Caen | Mont Saint Michel | Cancale | St. Malo

Le Mans, &#8220;City of Art and History&#8221;, greets you, showcasing its twenty hectares of cobblestone streets, timber framed or &#8220;pan-de-bois&#8221; homes, Renaissance hotels, Roman wall, and Saint Julien Cathedral. Next you will visit the magnificent Ch&#226;teau de Chenonceaux, often called the &#8220;Ladies&#8221; Ch&#226;teau. In 1512 Thomas Bohier decided to replace the fortress on this site with a Renaissance style ch&#226;teau. The build was directed by his wife Katherine Briconnet. In 1535, King Francis I incorporated it into the Crown Estate as part of a debt settlement. Later, King Henry II gifted it to his mistress, Diane de Poitiers, who added the bridge over the Cher River and the gardens. Head on to Amboise for tonight&#8217;s stay. (B)

St. Malo | Le Mans | Chenonceaux | Amboise

Experience the best of Amboise starting with a visit to Ch&#226;teau of Clos Luc&#233;, the home of Leonardo Da Vinci. Named &#8220;Premier Painter and Engineer and Architect&#8221; by King Francis I, Da Vinci was granted enjoyment of the Ch&#226;teau, which is located only a few meters away from the Ch&#226;teau d&#8217;Amboise royal residence. In the afternoon, take a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Loire River and then join in a tasting experience of wine and biscuits of the Tourraine area. (B)

Amboise | Clos Luce | Amboise

Your journey of discovery continues today with a visit of the Ch&#226;teau Chambord, a magnificent castle that King Francis I started constructing in 1519, featuring 400 rooms, more than 80 staircases, 365 fireplaces, and an exceptional number of towers, high ceilings, pointed domes and graceful pinnacles. Next, visit the Royal Ch&#226;teau de Blois that presents a stunning look at the art and history of the Loire&#8217;s castles and has been classified as a historic monument since 1845. Enjoy free time for shopping and return to your hotel to get ready for a special farewell dinner in a ch&#226;teau. (B,D)

Amboise | Chambord | Blois | Amboise

Rise and shine with breakfast at your hotel before transferring to the airport for your flight home. (B)

Amboise | Paris to USA (or extend your stay)

NORMANDY & CHATEAUX REGION

Saint Malo Fort National

The Abby of Mont Saint Michel

Church of Saint Pierre in Caen

Pointe du Hoc in Normandy

Amboise Castle

Experience the best of Paris on this Fun with the Family, 7-day France vacation featuring private tours, unique activities, and exciting excursions for all ages. Take a cruise on the Seine River. Delve into the &#8220;City of Light&#8221; on a half-day guided tour of Paris, including the Wax Museum - &#8220;Mus&#233;e Gr&#233;vin&#8221; and transportation by car. Join an insightfully guided tour of Versailles, including transportation by rail. Enjoy a magical day at Disneyland Paris, including transportation from/to your Paris hotel by private car. Revel in the rollercoasters at Asterix Park. Share in the delicious fun during a hands-on workshop at the Chocolate Museum and indulge in some chocolate treats. All of this and more await you and your family on this fabulous Paris vacation package. Our goal is to make family travel fun and rewarding for the entire family and have your children or grandchildren open up to new experiences as you get an insider&#8217;s look on your trip to France.

FAMILY FUN IN PARIS

Family Fun in Paris

Sacre Coeur

Pont de Bir-Hakeim

The best of gourmet meals and world-famous wines combine with breathtaking surroundings on this unique 9-day wine and gastronomy experience. On this France vacation you will enjoy: Seven momentous wine tastings of some of France's prestigious wines such as Grand Cru Classe of Saint Emilion and Grand Crus and Crus Bourgeois. Continue your tour of France in Saint-Beauzeil and participate in a hands-on cooking lesson with renowned Chef Guy Heraut, followed by a lunch to savor the fruits of your culinary work. Visit the Foie Gras Museum, and, in addition to three delectable hotel dinners and three delicious dinners at gourmet restaurants, a diverse line-up of sights waits including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Carcassonne's medieval Citadel, a town within a town, turreted thick wall ramparts and a maze of narrow cobbled streets bustling with life. See Louis XIV marble quarry, used in the Versailles Palace. This France tour package allows you to walk Montauban's historical center, the city of pink bricks and in Cahors see Pont Valentre (also known as the Devil's Bridge) a fortified work of art with three towers. Another major site will be the prehistoric Lascaux II Caves, the best of European cave paintings as well as another UNESCO site, the village of Saint-Emilion. Visit the historic center of Bordeaux and, in your travel along the 'Route des vins', discover idyllic vineyards, picturesque villages, chateaux, friendly &#34;Vignerons&#34; and much more on this fantastic France travel package.&#160;&#160;

Arrive at Toulouse Airport and transfer to Carcassonne, where there will be a guided tour of the Medieval Citadel, a UNESCO Heritage Site. Discover this bustling town within a town with its maze of narrow cobble-stone streets and turreted thick wall ramparts. Check in and dinner at your hotel in Carcassonne. (D)

Toulouse | Carcassonne

Depart for a visit of Fontfroide Abbey. Founded in 1093 on a land given to some Benedictine monks by the Vicomte de Narbonne, it is one of the most lavished and best-preserved Cistercian abbeys in France. The site includes a magnificent 3000- foot Rose Garden and a succession of Italian style terraced gardens. Continue to Minerve, a fortified medieval village with many of its fortifications still in place, perched on a naturally defended rocky peninsula high above a canyon in the barren Languedoc landscape. Return to Carcassonne after a visit of a local vineyard and a wine tasting experience. Dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Carcassonne | Narbonne | Minervois Region | Carcassonne

Travel to Cahors, where you will see the famous Pont Valentr&#233;, a fortified work of art with three towers. Enjoy lunch on your own. In the afternoon, visit Cahors&#8217; vineyards and enjoy a wine tasting at Chateau Lagrazette. Depart for the pilgrimage and fortress village of Rocamadour. Set in a gorge above a tributary of the River Dordogne, this holy city clings to the steep rocky cliffs at a dizzying height, displaying layer upon layer of houses and chapels. Transfer to Sarlat and settle into your hotel. Savor dinner at a traditional restaurant (B,D)

Carcassonne | Cahors | Rocamadour | Sarlat

After breakfast, enjoy your morning tour of Sarlat, an exceptionally well-preserved medieval town with renowned historical monuments. Later, visit the National Prehistoric Museum which houses France&#8217;s most important Paleolithic collections including the first global set of Paleolithic art on engraved or carved blocks. See the oldest traces of life left by mankind and understand the evolution of societies over the last 400 millennia. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Sarlat | Lascaux IV Cave Paintings | Sarlat

Head out to Saint &#201;milion today. Here, you will visit the Ch&#226;teau Ferrand, Grand Cru Class&#233; of Saint &#201;milion, and the lovely medieval town of Saint&#201;milion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a center of Bordeaux wine-making. Visit of the Fermigier shop and learn about the secret recipe of brightly colored macarons, and enjoy a macaron tasting session. In the afternoon, visit Chateau Coutet for wine tasting. Arrive in Bordeaux and settle in at your hotel. Dinner is at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Sarlat | Saint-Émilion | Bordeaux 

Day at leisure. Time to relax or to take an optional cooking class at the Michelin-starred restaurant Le Saint- James under the expert guidance of Head Chef Nicolas Magie and his team, or a cruise on the River Garonne. (B)

Bordeaux

Depart for Bassion D&#8217;Arcachon, a vast bay on the Atlantic Coast about 45 min from Bordeaux. Embark on a traditional boat for a cruise around the bay, learn about the iconic &#8220;cabane tchanquee&#8221; stilt houses and enjoy the spectacular views of the Ile aux Oiseaux and the Dune du Pilat &#8211; the highest dune in Europe. Savor local oysters for lunch, and spend an afternoon exploring the town of Arcachon on your own. (B)

Bordeaux | Arcachon | Bordeaux

Travel through the celebrated &#8216;Route des Vins&#8217; in the Medoc region, area of the most famous Bordeaux vineyards. From Pauillac to Margaux, you will discover some of the most prestigious names in the Grand Crus and Crus Bourgeois class wines. Experience three exquisite wine tastings as part of your exciting travel program before returning to Bordeaux. Tonight, enjoy a gourmet dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Bordeaux | Medoc Vineyards | Bordeaux 

Bordeaux to USA (or extend your stay)

FRANCE'S FINE WINES & CUISINE

Old Town of Carcassonne

Wine Tasting

Cathedral in Toulouse

Vineyard Area in Narbonne Region

Various French Cheeses

Learn the secrets of French cooking firsthand on this delectable France travel package with stays, cooking classes, and exquisite meals in Paris and Aix-en-Provence. Your cooking class experience in Paris includes a visit of a local market and lunch. The City of Light sets the perfect stage for delving into the culinary delights of France on this distinctive France vacation tour. Here you will also enjoy a visit of the Mus&#233;e du Chocolat, including a demonstration by a Master Chocolatier and hot chocolate tasting. Further along on this gastronomic extravaganza trip to France, travel to the east of the Rh&#244;ne in Provence for a wine tour including tasting experience in Ch&#226;teauneuf du Pape. In this village just about every cultivable piece of land is used for planting grape vines. The commune is famous for the production of red wine. During your time in Ch&#226;teauneuf du Pape you will visit the cellars of four local wineries and see the 13th century ruins of the town's medieval castle. As your foodie adventure continues, discover the delights of Provence and its fragrant herb-scented hills and learn all the secrets of a cuisine prepared with produce from the local Proven&#231;al markets. Then savor the fruit of your labor, sharing lunch after your class.&#160;&#160;

THE CUISINE OF PROVENCE

Le Pigonnet cultivates discretion just a few minutes walk away from the city centre. The Hotel gradually appears while going up the Plane tree-lined alley, which will feel like going back to another age. The charms of mullioned windows evoking the 18th century foundations, the partially leaf-covered façade and the green shutters are simply timeless. The secret garden is our treasure and its history is linked to the early 20th century thermal bath revival in the region. The Swellen family bought the house in 1924 and for three generations they focused on streamlining its outstanding character, which Esprit de France's family collection perpetuates today. The Pigonnet's cuisine has also made it highly attractive and popular with locals and tourists from all over the world, particulary during events. The combination of traditions and modern art-de-vivre make it a perfect starting point to explore the south of France. 

Cooking Class

Paris Cityscape

Rustic Squash Galette

Aix-en-Provence Old Town Market

Calissons d'Aix-en-Provence

7-days to discover two of the most fascinating destination in France await you on this independent France vacation package that takes you to experience Paris and Bordeaux. With three nights in Paris and three nights in Bordeaux, plus plenty of exciting sites to see, as well as included hotels and first class rail between cities, all of the key arrangements are made for you &#8211; but you set the pace to delve into each destination on your own. Included as part of this fascinating France travel package by rail is a half day city tour of Paris and one-hour Seine River cruise. See the splendors of The City of Light - the Eiffel Tower, Palais Royal, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the designer shops along the Champs Elysees - a tree-lined beauty, full of elegant cafes, theaters and shops developed by Louis XV. Even once you've sampled the city's &#34;essential&#34; sights; you'll find an unlimited supply of culture, art, nightlife, eateries and chic shopping experiences to delay your departure. As you venture along by rail on this trip to France featuring amazing moments in Bordeaux, you will enjoy a &#34;Great Cabernets of the Medoc&#34; full day tour, including a visit of local wineries and wine tasting experiences. The adventure continues with a &#34;Merlot wines of St. Emilion&#34; full day tour, including a walking tour of the village and visit of local wineries and wine tastings. Postcard perfect settings and unforgettable memories are yours on this independent vacation to France.

DISCOVER PARIS & BORDEAUX

Bordeaux City

Scenic View of the Eiffel Tower

Pont de Pierre in Bordeaux 

Embark on a 7-day trip to France by rail that takes you to discover the treasures of Paris and Lyon. With three nights in each of these culinary gem destinations and plenty of exciting sites to see, as well as included hotels and first class rail between cities, all of the key arrangements are made for you &#8211; but you set the pace to delve into each city on your own. Included as part of this fascinating France vacation package by rail is a half day city tour of Paris and one-hour Seine River cruise. See the splendors of The City of Light - the Eiffel Tower, Palais Royal, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the designer shops along the Champs Elysees - a tree-lined beauty, full of elegant cafes, theaters and shops developed by Louis XV. Even once you've sampled the city's &#34;essential&#34; sights; you'll find an unlimited supply of culture, art, nightlife, eateries and chic shopping experiences to delay your departure. In Lyon, travelers will enjoy a private guided walking tour for foodies, including visit of &#8220;La Croix Rousse&#8221; market and tastings. Also included on this independent France travel package by rail is a private half day tour with English-speaking driver of the Beaujolais region, including a wine tasting experience.

DISCOVER PARIS & LYON

Saone River

Seine River Cruise

Beaujolais Region

This exquisite 7-day France vacation package by rail takes you to live unforgettable moments in Paris and the Burgundy wine region. Our France travel packages are packed with attractions and monuments, from the antique to the modern, with an unlimited supply of culture, art, nightlife, eateries and chic shopping experiences. Delight in Paris' splendors - the Eiffel Tower, Palais Royal, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, before high speed, signature French TGV trains take you to Burgundy, a region known for its chateaux, canals, beautiful countryside and a relaxed rural lifestyle. It's a place where food and wine are an art form for leisurely lunches and dinners. Travel on to the center of the Burgundy wine-making region and stay for three nights in Beaune where included adventures await you. Here you will enjoy a private half day C&#244;te de Beaune tour with English-speaking driver, including a visit of a local winery and wine tasting experience. Next, venture along on a private half day C&#244;te de Nuits tour with English-speaking driver, including a visit of a local winery and wine tasting. Every experience you share will make your independent France vacation tour by rail one to remember for a lifetime.

DISCOVER PARIS & BURGUNDY

Burgundy Region

Hotel de Dieu of 14th Century in Burgundy

Paris Rail

Frog Legs in Beaune Restaurant

Enjoy a France vacation as it comes alive during this nine day rail program of sophisticated Paris, pastoral Provence, and the luxurious French Riviera. With three nights in Paris, two nights in Avignon, and three nights in Nice &#8211; plus plenty of exciting sites to see, included hotels and first class rail between cities &#8211; all of the key arrangements are made for you, but you set the pace to delve into each city on your own. Begin in Paris, &#34;The City of Light&#34;, where the Arc de Triomphe, the Opera House, Champs-Elysees, and Notre Dame Cathedral reveal Paris exquisite artistry. Your trip to France features three days in Paris where you can take your time to fully absorb French culture; if you want opt to venture beyond the city limits with an optional day excursion to the Palace of Versailles. A scenic journey by rail to Avignon brings you to the heart of Provence. Avignon is home to the largest gothic palace in the world where in the winter months, visitors sample wine from famous Rhone Valley vineyards. In warmer months, a one-hour cruise along the Rhone River guides travelers past scenic farmhouses and lush lavender fields. A train trip to the southern coast introduces visitors to France's mild climate-here lies Nice in the Cote d'Azur, a land of romantic hillside towns, grand chateaux, and white beaches. This France travel package will leave you mesmerized!

Arrival in Paris. After check-in at your hotel, the balance of the day is at leisure to explore Paris, the magnificent capital of France. Packed with monuments, museums, art, nightlife, eateries and shops, Paris remains - in spite of all the cliches - one of the most inspiring cities in the world.

Paris

Your included morning city tour features the Arc de Triomphe, Opera House, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral and much more. There is so much to see and do in Paris, a city so aptly called the City of Lights, where exciting evening outings are a must. Tonight, while cruising along the Seine River, enjoy spectacular views of its monuments illuminated with millions of lights. (B)

Full day at leisure to enjoy the warmth and charm of a traditional French bistro or to take an optional excursion to Versailles. (B)

Today travel by rail from Paris to Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The afternoon is at leisure. Wander the narrow streets to discover this interesting town full of history, life and art. (B)

Paris | Avignon

After breakfast, enjoy a visit of the Popes' Palace, the largest Gothic palace in the world. In the afternoon enjoy a one hour cruise on the Rhone River, before ending the day with a nice dinner in a popular restaurant. (B,D)

This morning, board your train to Nice. Located in the heart of one of the world's most highly prized regions, it offers a rich history and a wonderfully mild sunny climate. Check-in at your hotel. (B)&#160;&#160;

Avignon | Nice

Today enjoy a full day excursion along the Cote d'Azur. A world of romantic hill towns with cobblestone streets leading to modest hamlets and ancient chateaux waiting for you. (B)

Full day at leisure to visit, on your own, the many outdoor markets, parks and beautiful museums this lovely city has to offer. (B)&#160;&#160;

Say ''au revoir'' to France or extend your stay. (B)

Nice to USA (or extend your stay)

PARIS, PROVENCE & FRENCH RIVIERA

Enjoy the location of the Mercure Avignon Centre Palais des Papes located by the Clock'square in the city center. Best situation to discover the Popes'Palace, to dance on the Pont d'Avignon and to enjoy shows all year through at the Avignon Theater (opposite the hotel). Stroll arround the city and enter 1 of the numerous theaters during the Festival d'Avignon in July. You are in the heart of Provence. Easy access to Avignon with 2 stations:Avignon TGV and Avignon Centre, and highways A7 and A9.The Mercure Cit&#233; des Papes hotel is located on the Place de l'Horloge, the animated centre of the old city, with its theatres and numerous cafes. In the heart of Provence, this address is ideally situated to make the most of the Theatre Festival of Avignondaily breakfast included, hotel city tax not included and to be paid locally

Nice Promenade

Pont Saint Benezet, Avignon

French Riviera

Beautiful chateaux and lush green countryside await your exploration on our Royal Stays Fly and Drive France vacation package. Visit, Chailly-sur-Arman&#231;on, a small village located east center of France. Here you will join in a wine tasting experience at H&#244;tel Golf Ch&#226;teau de Chailly. Get ready to learn the secrets of French cuisine as you continue your splendid trip to France with a cooking class at the ch&#226;teau, followed by a delicious lunch. The adventure continues on this Royal Stays France vacation with a hot air balloon ride over Burgundy wine region. Further along your travels, head to Ch&#226;teau de Pommard for a vineyard visit and exquisite wine tasting experience. Unforgettable moments await you on this captivating France travel package.

ROYAL STAYS IN FRANCE

Chailly Sur Armanço

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Arc de Triomphe in Paris

Chateau de Chantilly

Enjoy this independent France vacation package traveling by first class rail to explore Paris and Alsace. With three nights in Paris and three nights in Strasbourg, plus plenty of exciting sites to see, as well as included hotels and first class rail between cities, all of the key arrangements are made for you &#8211; but you set the pace to delve into each city on your own. Included as part of this fascinating France travel package by rail is a half day city tour of Paris and one-hour Seine River cruise. See the splendors of The City of Light - the Eiffel Tower, Palais Royal, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame, and the designer shops along the Champs Elysees - a tree-lined beauty, full of elegant cafes, theaters and shops developed by Louis XV. Even once you've sampled the city's &#34;essential&#34; sights; you'll find an unlimited supply of culture, art, nightlife, eateries and chic shopping experiences to delay your departure. Stay in the capital of Alsase, Strasbourg, situated in northeastern France &#8211; home to the Gothic Cath&#233;drale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, with its animated astronomical clock. This region is bordered by Germany and Switzerland, offering a great wealth of culture. On this fairy-tale style trip to France, you will enjoy a Market and Gourmet tour, including tasting experiences of cheese, local breads, pretzels and wine. Further on your journey, join in a full day guided excursion following the legendary Alsace &#8220;Grands Crus&#8221; wine route, including tastings of Riesling, Pinot Gris, Sparkling Cr&#233;mant, Sylvaner.

DISCOVER PARIS & ALSACE

Strasbourg

Pommes d'amour, French Market

Wine Route, Alsace Region

Travel to France and see the Loire Valley, the &#34;Garden of France&#34;, an enchanted land of vineyards, flowers and rolling green hills dotted with innumerable chateaux. It is perhaps the charm of its gentle paced life that has made it a sought-after location for poets and writers. To get to this fairy-tale land you pick up a car in Paris and delve into this magic world, even sleeping in chateaux. A wide line-up of castles will be seen - spectacular Chateau de Chambord, a royal hunting reserve larger than Paris itself. In Chambord also visit Joan of Arc&#8217;s house. Continue your fly and drive France vacation and visit the town of Tours, dating back to Gallo-Roman times, which was once the capital of the Kingdom of France. This France travel package will take you to the most romantic French chateau found in Chenonceau - the Ladies Castle - built by one of France's great Queens -in nearby Amboise, besides a Royal castle, you may see Clos Luce, where Leonardo da Vinci spent the last years of his life. Other notable chateaux will be in Villandry, best known for its magnificent flower and vegetable gardens - in Azay-le-Rideau - in the town of Saumur, set by the Loire River - in Angers, one of France's most beautiful cities, see Jean Lurat's dramatic tapestry &#34;Chant du Monde&#34;. A few more gems... savor local cuisine at La Cave; an incredible restaurant located in a cave... and, in a Mont Louis cellar, attends a tasting of red, white, rose and sparkling wines... your last overnight in France at luxurious Chateau Montvillargenne in Gouvieux.

DISCOVER THE LOIRE VALLEY

This France and England vacation package by rail invites you to explore two of the world's most famous cities. Come live the magic of Paris and London on this 7-day world-class adventure from Central Holidays. With three nights in Paris and three nights in London &#8211; plus plenty of exciting sites to see, as well as included hotels, and first class rail between cities &#8211; all of the key arrangements are made for you, but you set the pace to delve into each destination on your own. Travel to France and begin your vacation in the City of Light &#8211; Paris, France &#8211; exploring the country's capital with its monuments, museums, architecture, nightlife and famous French cuisine. A private tour of the amazing city will take you to the Arc de Triomphe, Opera House, famed Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral and so much more. Dine at outdoor cafes on baguettes and pastries while sampling the fine wines that are only produced in this specific region of the world. Board the Eurostar high-speed train from Paris to London via the Channel Tunnel, and in just two short hours you will be on the second half of your journey--exploring London, the cosmopolitan capital of England. The historic city is packed with stunning architecture, famous sights and plenty of museums and restaurants to explore and sample. A bus tour will take you to Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Parliament, the London Eye, Shakespeare's Theater, fashionable Chelsea and King's Road, Buckingham Palace and the Tower of London along with so much more! Shop the markets at Portobello Road in Notting Hill or watch the changing of the guard at Buckingham Palace. Ride the underground tube and be sure to mind the gap when boarding--and shop your way through Piccadilly Circus before stopping in a local pub for a pint of acclaimed beer and authentic fish and chips. Our France and England travel package by rail offers a vacation you won't soon forget!&#160;&#160;

Your included morning city tour features the Arc de Triomphe, Opera House, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral and much more. There is so much to see and do in Paris, a city so aptly called the City of Lights, where exciting evening outings are a must. (B)

Full day at leisure to take an optional tour or to just relax and enjoy the warmth and charm of a traditional French bistro. (B)

This morning experience the Eurostar highspeed train from Paris to London, via the Channel Tunnel. In just two hours you will be in London, England's cosmopolitan capital. After check-in at your hotel, use the balance of the day to start exploring the city that, with its perfect mix of the old and new world, has fascinated visitors from all over the world for many years. (B)

Paris/London

The day is yours to discover all the city has to offer. Your included hop on/hop off bus tour will take you to all major landmarks, such as Westminster Abbey, Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul's Cathedral, the Tower of London and many more. (B)

London

Full day at leisure. For a bird's-eye view of the city, take a spin on the London Eye, the Ferris wheel overlooking the Thames. A visit to one of the many museums or art galleries is a must. Watch the Changing of the Guard, take a stroll in one of the parks, or shop along Portobello Road in Notting Hill. (B)

Say ''goodbye'' to London or extend your stay. (B)

London To USA (Or Extend Your Stay)

A TASTE OF PARIS & LONDON

Our&#160;France vacation packages&#160;offer something for everyone. Savor the &#8220;joie de vivre&#8221; &#8211; joy of living &#8211; on a Central Holidays&#160;France tour package, from the metropolitan chic of her cities, to the charming appeal of her villages and towns. Stroll along the glistening Riviera in Nice or Cannes, live the stylish romance of Paris, and immerse yourself in the colors and essence of Provence. France sets the perfect stage for experiencing exquisite restaurants, exploring picture-perfect villages and vibrant cities, taking in masterful works of art, and enjoying blissful moments. Paris&#8217; outstanding galleries and museums, countless caf&#233;s, brasseries and restaurants lining just about every street and boulevard offer newlyweds a bounty of options for indulging the mind, body, and spirit. From the Louvre's unforgettable painting of the Mona Lisa and Notre-Dame's glowering gargoyles to the glamorous can-can dancers at the Moulin Rouge, Paris offers the experiences of a lifetime. You&#8217;ll delight in all the sights that the &#8220;city of light&#8221; has to offer -- the Palais Royal, Arc de Triomphe, the designer shops along the Champs Elysees, and much more. Come marvel in the glittering shores of the French Riviera. This world-renowned playground has lured visitors for decades, inviting them to splash in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea. With many vast and diverse offerings available, your ideal&#160;France travel packages&#160;are here for the taking. Here you can indulge in a combination of the most popular cities as well as off-the-beaten-path locales and experiences. You may even wish to, not only, savor gastronomic delights, but also, learn to create some of your own culinary masterpieces in Provence on one of our Cooking Class programs.

Our France vacation packages offer something for everyone. Savor the “joie de vivre” – joy of living – on a Central Holidays France tour package, from the metropolitan chic of her cities, to the charming appeal of her villages and towns.

Chic cities, charming towns, the glistening Riviera, our France vacation packages beckon

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