France Holiday Tour
Exploring the Old Cities
Embarking on a journey to explore the old cities of France is like stepping into a living tapestry of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. With Jamie’s Planet Earth’s curated itineraries as a guide, travellers can tailor their holiday to their preferences, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
The Charm of Paris – The City of Light
Day 1-3
Flight to Paris: Your journey begins in the enchanting city of Paris. Upon arrival, settle into a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the city.
Exploring Parisian Icons – Dedicate the first day to iconic sights – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Don’t miss the Louvre’s masterpieces like the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
Seine River Cruise – In the evening, embark on a Seine River cruise to witness the city’s landmarks illuminated against the night sky.
Montmartre and Sacré-Cœur – The following day, head to the artistic hilltop neighbourhood of Montmartre. Visit the Sacré-Cœur Basilica and stroll through Place du Tertre, where artists display their work.
Parisian Gastronomy – Parisian cuisine is a highlight. Dine at quaint bistros and try classics like Coq au Vin and Crème Brûlée.
Lyon – A Blend of Old and New
Day 4-5
Travel to Lyon – A quick train journey brings us to Lyon, known for its historical and architectural landmarks.
Vieux Lyon and Traboules – Explore Vieux Lyon, the city’s old town, brimming with Renaissance architecture. Discover the secret passageways known as traboules.
Gastronomic Capital – Lyon is the gastronomic capital of France. Enjoy a meal at a traditional Lyonnaise bouchon, sampling local specialities like Quenelles and Lyonnaise salad.
Avignon – The Medieval City of Popes
Day 6-7
Arrival in Avignon – Next, we travel to Avignon, a medieval city once the centre of the Catholic world.
Palais des Papes – Visit the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe.
Pont d’Avignon – Stroll to the famous Pont d’Avignon, immortalized in the French nursery rhyme.
Provencal Cuisine – Savor Provencal cuisine, is known for its rich flavours and use of fresh, local ingredients.
Carcassonne – A Fairytale Fortress
Day 8-9
Discover Carcassonne – Journey to the fairytale city of Carcassonne, famous for its medieval citadel, La Cité.
Medieval Wonders – Tour the double-walled fortress, exploring its ramparts and narrow cobblestone streets.
Local Delicacies – In the evening, indulge in Cassoulet, a hearty local dish, in one of the citadel’s charming restaurants.
Bordeaux – The Wine Capital
Day 10-11
Wine Tasting in Bordeaux – Bordeaux, the wine capital, is our next stop. Visit vineyards in the surrounding regions like Saint-Émilion or Médoc, indulging in wine tastings.
Historical Bordeaux – Explore Bordeaux’s city centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site, admiring its classical and neoclassical architecture, largely unchanged over the last two centuries.
The Water Mirror – Don’t miss the Miroir d’eau, the world’s largest reflecting pool, offering stunning views of Place de la Bourse.
Nantes – A Voyage Through History & Fantasy
Day 12-13
Exploring Nantes – Our journey takes us to Nantes, a city with a rich maritime history.
Château des Ducs de Bretagne – Visit the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, a fortress that houses the Nantes History Museum.
The Machines of the Isle – Experience the fantastical Machines of the Isle of Nantes, an artistic project inspired by the works of Jules Verne and Leonardo da Vinci.
Strasbourg – A Cultural Mélange
Day 14-15
Arrival in Strasbourg – The final leg of our journey is in Strasbourg, where French and German cultures blend seamlessly.
Strasbourg Cathedral – Visit the Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.
La Petite France – Wander through La Petite France, a picturesque quarter with timber-framed buildings and quaint canals.
Tailoring Your Journey
Choose Your Dates -The best time to embark on this journey is either in the spring (April to June) or fall (September to October) when the weather is mild and the tourist crowds are thinner.
Online Booking – Utilize online booking agent Jamie’s Planet Earth for convenience and often better deals.
Transportation – France’s excellent train network makes intercity travel convenient. Consider purchasing a rail pass if travelling extensively by train.
Cultural Events – Check local event calendars. France’s cities are vibrant with festivals, exhibitions, and concerts year-round.
Local Guides – For an immersive experience, hire local guides, especially for wine tours in Bordeaux and historical tours in Lyon and Avignon.
Conclusion
A holiday through France’s old cities is more than a trip; it’s a journey through time, where each city offers a unique window into the country’s soul. With Jamie’s Planet Earth’s suggestions, travellers can craft an itinerary that not only explores France’s historical grandeur but also indulges in its contemporary culture and gastronomy. This journey promises to be a tapestry of experiences, leaving travellers with memories to cherish for a lifetime.
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