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France
Paris, Rouen, Honfleur, Bayeux, Normandy Beaches, Omaha Beach, Arromanches-les-Bains, Mont-Saint-Michel, Le Tronchet, Loire Valley, Amboise, Chenonceaux, Chartres
4 Dinners, 7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch
Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.
If you like hassle free travel with everything handled for you – looking to meet great people, eat great food, enjoy great sightseeing, and have immersive experiences, Trafalgar is for you. From the iconic not-to-be-missed to one-of-a-kind local experiences, including Be-my-Guest dining and stays with stories, you’ll connect deeper to your destination, and every tour has at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER immersive impact experience offering you the chance to dive into culture and community.
Travel from Paris to the D-Day Landing Beaches of Normandy and on to the beautiful Loire Valley on this in-depth France and Normandy tour. Imagine life as a French noble as you are welcomed to a 17th-century château and learn about the battles that were fought here through the ages.
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Bienvenue! The 'City of Light' welcomes you as you prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through France. Join your fellow travelers and Travel Director this afternoon for an orientation drive to admire the glittering cityscape of Paris – past grand boulevards and iconic sites like the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe and get to know your traveling companions over dinner this evening.
Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris on an orientation drive this evening.
Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris on an orientation drive this evening.
This morning, we depart Paris and venture to the city of Rouen, the tragic site where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. We travel to the enchanting harbor town of Honfleur – its narrow lanes and colorful shopfronts have long attracted artists who have immortalized its beauty on canvas. Arriving in Bayeux, we visit the Tapestry Museum. Here you’ll Dive Into Culture and see the Bayeux Tapestry, depicting events before and during the Battle of Hastings in 1066. This evening, we dine at our hotel.
Explore the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry telling the story of Norman conquests and the Battle of Hastings so many centuries ago.
Explore the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry telling the story of Norman conquests and the Battle of Hastings so many centuries ago.
Admire the harbor town of Honfleur and its beautiful colorful storefronts.
Admire the harbor town of Honfleur and its beautiful colorful storefronts.
Today we explore the poignant D-Day Landing Beaches in the company of our Local Specialist. We begin with a visit to the American Rangers Memorial at Pointe du Hoc. Pay tribute to the brave souls who lost their lives at Omaha Beach, imagining the mingled sense of terror and triumph felt on the fateful day when Allied forces set foot on mainland Europe. We stop for lunch in the seaside town of Arromanches, the setting for the Mulberry Harbor, once at the heart of the Normandy landings.
Spend the morning visiting the American Rangers Memorial and pay tribute to those who lost their lives on D-Day Landing Beach.
Spend the morning visiting the American Rangers Memorial and pay tribute to those who lost their lives on D-Day Landing Beach.
Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach.
Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach.
Experience true Norman hospitality with a visit to a family-run cider farm. We’ll discover their secrets and have the opportunity to taste the newe...
See MoreExperience true Norman hospitality with a visit to a family-run cider farm. We’ll discover their secrets and have the opportunity to taste the newest cider batch. Then, we'll head off for a typical meal of traditional Norman flavors with drinks included.
€73
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
Travel through the Normandy countryside admiring the land of calvados before exploring the UNESCO World Heritage-listed bay of the Mont-Saint Michel. Our Local Specialist reveals the history of the impressive medieval Benedictine Abbey perched on the hilltop. In Brittany enjoy the afternoon your way or perhaps, discover the beauty of the port city of St. Malo with a Local Specialist on the Jewels of St. Malo Optional Experience.
Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel and cross the causeway to explore the tidal island town.
Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel and cross the causeway to explore the tidal island town.
Take in the stunning natural beauty of the Emerald coastline and learn about the privateer past of Saint-Malo. This port town is known for its stri...
See MoreTake in the stunning natural beauty of the Emerald coastline and learn about the privateer past of Saint-Malo. This port town is known for its striking medieval ramparts, handsome aristocratic houses and its famous son, Jacques Cartier, who claimed what is now Canada for the French. Join our Local Specialist to uncover the secrets of this "Jewel of Brittany."
€41
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
Journey onward through scenic countryside, stopping to Connect With Locals at a lunch with wine in a 17th-century château during a Be My Guest experience set within beautiful grounds. Later, continue to the beautiful Loire Valley, where we will spend the next two nights.
Walk among the wild hyacinths in the beautiful gardens of the 17th-century Chateau d'Eporce, during a unique Be My Guest experience. Enjoy a select...
See MoreWalk among the wild hyacinths in the beautiful gardens of the 17th-century Chateau d'Eporce, during a unique Be My Guest experience. Enjoy a selection of local wines and taste some home-cooked specialties created by the chateau’s resident culinary expert, Lydia.
Join our Local Specialist for an enchanting excursion to rival the greatest fairy tales, discovering the dream-like Old Town of Tours, including th...
See MoreJoin our Local Specialist for an enchanting excursion to rival the greatest fairy tales, discovering the dream-like Old Town of Tours, including the Basilica of St. Martin and the history of Renaissance Kings.
€31
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
In the morning, you are invited to taste hand-crafted chocolate at Maison Bigot for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience. Afterwards, we spend our day admiring the beautiful châteaux of the Loire Valley and join a Local Specialist for a visit to the Amboise Royal Château. It is here that King François I hosted Leonardo da Vinci, whose tomb now lies in the Chapel of Saint-Hubert adjoining the château. We continue with a visit to Château de Chenonceau, built on the Cher River. The château is often referred to as the 'Ladies Castle', due to the many women who influenced its construction and development. Today it contains priceless collections, including Renaissance furniture, tapestries and masterpieces by Rubens and Tintoretto.
Visit the Amboise Royal Château with your Local Specialist where you will see the home of Leonardo da Vinci's tomb.
Visit the Amboise Royal Château with your Local Specialist where you will see the home of Leonardo da Vinci's tomb.
Visit Château de Chenonceau or commonly known as 'Ladies Castle' which got its name from the many women who influenced its construction.
Visit Château de Chenonceau or commonly known as 'Ladies Castle' which got its name from the many women who influenced its construction.
Visit Maison Bigot in Amboise, a charming family-run chocolate shop. Immerse yourself in rich traditions as you learn about the craft and indulge in a lovely tasting experience.
Visit Maison Bigot in Amboise, a charming family-run chocolate shop. Immerse yourself in rich traditions as you learn about the craft and indulge in a lovely tasting experience.
Truly one of the giants of history, Leonard da Vinci left behind many marvelous treasures in the Manor house and gardens where he spent his final y...
See MoreTruly one of the giants of history, Leonard da Vinci left behind many marvelous treasures in the Manor house and gardens where he spent his final years, close to his patron: François I. Our Local Specialist will reveal some of da Vinci's most extraordinary inventions, from submarines to helicopters.
€47
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
A perfect place to toast new-found friends. The Loire Valley, known for its romantic chateaux and stunning natural beauty, is often called the Gard...
See MoreA perfect place to toast new-found friends. The Loire Valley, known for its romantic chateaux and stunning natural beauty, is often called the Garden of France thanks to its sublime produce and top restaurants. Tonight, we’ll enjoy a meal together and savor typical French cuisine.
€82
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
Our first stop today is the town of Chartres and its beautiful Roman Catholic cathedral, regarded as one of the most authentic and complete works of religious architecture from the early 13th century. We journey back to Paris this afternoon and spend the rest of our day in the 'City of Light'. Celebrate with your Travel Director and newfound friends this evening at a Farewell Dinner with local wines at a Parisian bistro.
Bask in the beautiful religious architecture from the 13th century as you explore the town of Chartres.
Bask in the beautiful religious architecture from the 13th century as you explore the town of Chartres.
With your Local Specialist, you'll be en route to the iconic Latin Quarter. Where you’ll stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, admiring a replica ...
See MoreWith your Local Specialist, you'll be en route to the iconic Latin Quarter. Where you’ll stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, admiring a replica of the Statue of Liberty and the garden’s famous beehives before enjoying free time to explore the Latin Quarter and view Notre Dame Cathedral.
€39
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
Discover the heart of Paris with a cruise along the Seine. Take in the city’s most iconic sights, from the Eiffel Tower to the Grand Palais from a ...
See MoreDiscover the heart of Paris with a cruise along the Seine. Take in the city’s most iconic sights, from the Eiffel Tower to the Grand Palais from a scenic vantage point. Then, sit back and relax as you drive through the enchanting streets of the City of Love, uncovering even more of its timeless landmarks.
€50
Optional experiences are enhancements to your tour and can be booked by your Travel Director while on tour.
For now it's time to say a fond au revoir to France and your fellow travelers at the end of a memorable trip.
Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.
Explore the iconic sights and streets of Paris on an orientation drive this evening.
Explore the 11th-century Bayeux Tapestry telling the story of Norman conquests and the Battle of Hastings so many centuries ago.
Admire the harbor town of Honfleur and its beautiful colorful storefronts.
Spend the morning visiting the American Rangers Memorial and pay tribute to those who lost their lives on D-Day Landing Beach.
Join an emotive journey tracing the story of the D-Day landings and visit Omaha Beach.
Savor your first sight of the fortified island of Mont Saint-Michel and cross the causeway to explore the tidal island town.
Walk among the wild hyacinths in the beautiful gardens of the 17th-century Chateau d'Eporce, during a unique Be My Guest experience. Enjoy a select...
See MoreVisit the Amboise Royal Château with your Local Specialist where you will see the home of Leonardo da Vinci's tomb.
Visit Château de Chenonceau or commonly known as 'Ladies Castle' which got its name from the many women who influenced its construction.
Visit Maison Bigot in Amboise, a charming family-run chocolate shop. Immerse yourself in rich traditions as you learn about the craft and indulge in a lovely tasting experience.
Bask in the beautiful religious architecture from the 13th century as you explore the town of Chartres.
Sign up on tour for additional experiences that have been curated by your Travel Director from their own in-depth local knowledge.
Experience true Norman hospitality with a visit to a family-run cider farm. We’ll discover their secrets and have the opportunity to taste the newe...
See MoreTake in the stunning natural beauty of the Emerald coastline and learn about the privateer past of Saint-Malo. This port town is known for its stri...
See MoreJoin our Local Specialist for an enchanting excursion to rival the greatest fairy tales, discovering the dream-like Old Town of Tours, including th...
See MoreTruly one of the giants of history, Leonard da Vinci left behind many marvelous treasures in the Manor house and gardens where he spent his final y...
See MoreA perfect place to toast new-found friends. The Loire Valley, known for its romantic chateaux and stunning natural beauty, is often called the Gard...
See MoreWith your Local Specialist, you'll be en route to the iconic Latin Quarter. Where you’ll stroll through the Luxembourg Gardens, admiring a replica ...
See MoreDiscover the heart of Paris with a cruise along the Seine. Take in the city’s most iconic sights, from the Eiffel Tower to the Grand Palais from a ...
See MoreFrance passport, visa, and entry requirement information for US citizens.
Twin Room All listed pricing in the brochure and website is per person based on two people sharing a twin room (a room with 2 twin size beds). A double bed can be requested at time of booking if preferred.
Solo Supplement If you are traveling alone and require a single room, there will be an additional Solo Room Supplement added to your price.
Triple Room Rooms that sleep 3 people are available on some itineraries. The third bed is typically a pull out or cot.
France has a varied climate due to its size and geographical diversity. The northern regions, including Paris, have a temperate climate with mild summers and cool winters. Coastal areas along the Mediterranean, such as Nice and Marseille, have a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters. The mountainous regions, like the French Alps, experience alpine climate conditions with cold winters and heavy snowfall, making them popular for winter sports. Western France, including cities like Bordeaux and Nantes, has an oceanic climate with mild, damp winters and mild summers. Overall, France experiences regional variations in temperature, precipitation, and sunshine hours throughout the year.
On-Tour Luggage & Carry-On Bag Size Limits
Luggage: Each guest traveling may bring one suitcase no larger than 30” x 18” x 10" and weighing no more than 50 lb
Carry-On Bag: *Restricted to one piece per person, not to exceed 12” x 11” x 6”
So your driver and any hotel porters can safely lift and transport your suitcase throughout your vacation, we strongly recommend that you test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.
Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline, and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.
Packing Tips for Your Tour
Packing for a guided tour will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started:
Passport and Travel Documents: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary travel documents.
Clothing:
Sun Protection:
Medications and First Aid:
Toiletries:
Electronics:
Miscellaneous:
Optional:
Remember to pack light and versatile items that can be mixed and matched for different outfits. Laundry facilities are often available, or you can have your clothes laundered at hotels during your trip. It's also a good idea to pack a small bag or backpack to bring on the coach for day trips and excursions, leaving your larger luggage at the hotel.
Electricity
American appliances run on 110-120 volts at 60 Hz, while European appliances run on 220-230 volts at 50 Hz.
As a result, American appliances designed for use in the United States (typically 120 volts at 60 Hz) may not be directly compatible with the higher voltage used in European countries. Plugging a 120-volt appliance into a 220-240-volt outlet without the appropriate voltage converter or transformer can cause damage to the appliance or pose safety risks.
If you plan to bring American appliances to Europe, you will need a voltage converter or transformer to change the voltage to 220-240 volts from 110 volts. Additionally, you will likely need a plug adapter to fit the American-style plug into the European power outlets. All of Europe operates on the same two round-pronged outlets (Type C).
It's important to note that not all appliances are compatible with voltage converters, so it's essential to check the labels or user manuals of your devices before using them with a voltage converter. Some electronic devices, such as laptops, smartphones, and camera chargers, are dual voltage and can support 120V and 220-240V, so they may not require a voltage converter, but a plug adapter will still be necessary.
To avoid any issues with electrical compatibility during your travels, consider purchasing appliances specifically designed for the voltage used in the region you'll be visiting or use appropriate voltage converters and plug adapters to ensure the safe operation of your American appliances in Europe.
We recommend purchasing an adapter with a voltage converter so you can pack less. And to pick up any necessary adapters or converters for your electronic devices before departing on your guided tour and bringing them with you.
Hair Dryers in Your Hotel
Hair dryers are common accessories in hotels. Should you want to bring your own, though, you will need to bring an adapter and voltage converter or make sure it is dual voltage by checking the label for INPUT AC 120V - 240V or a switch that can be set to 125V or 250V. Many devices have this feature, so it's worth checking before you travel. If you need a hair dryer during your trip but can't find one in your hotel room, you can inquire with the hotel staff. Many hotels will be able to provide a hair dryer upon request, either at the front desk or through housekeeping.
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning is commonly available in European hotels, restaurants, and public spaces, especially in major cities and tourist areas, but it is worth noting that the settings will differ from what you are used to in the USA.
However, it's important to note that not all accommodations or historic buildings may have air conditioning, particularly in more traditional or rural settings. Most hotels in Europe can provide a portable fan for additional room cooling if requested. Your Travel Director will be on hand to assist you throughout your trip.
Traveling by coach
Our modern air-conditioned coaches have been selected with your comfort in mind. Your Travel Director will familiarize you with all the onboard features, including a washroom fitted for your convenience and comfort. Regular stops are made to stretch your legs, take refreshments, fill up your water bottles, and use the facilities.
Airport transfers
Airport transfers to and from the airport on the first and last days of your tour are complimentary only if you are traveling on a tour operated by Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, or Luxury Gold and your flight times coincide with the shuttle-coach transfer timings. Learn more about Airport Transfers here.
To enable you to personalize your tour experience, you will find a number of Optional Experiences designed to complement the itinerary. These are designed to offer a deeper insight into the culture and character of the areas to be visited and provide some wonderful highlights to your travels. The optional program is designed to let you experience more of what interests you and to get the most from your vacation without replacing or overlapping with anything included in an itinerary.
The majority of Optional Experiences will be offered to you by your Travel Director at the beginning of your trip. Some may be subject to change, depending on the time you are traveling or local circumstances, including weather and days of the week. Your Travel Director will provide further information.
Usually, most Optional Experiences will be priced in the local currency, but please read through the details of individual optional experiences for specific information. Exact payment options will be advised locally by your Travel Director/Local Representative for each Optional Experience, but in many cases, cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are all accepted.
It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.
In order to ensure a healthy and enjoyable trip, we strongly suggest that you pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Here’s what you need to know about traveling with medications.
Prior to traveling, please notify GET of any disability requiring special assistance or any specific dietary needs that you may have, and we will strive to accommodate these.
It's essential to ensure that your routine vaccinations are up-to-date before traveling to any destination. Routine vaccinations may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, and influenza.
When traveling with GET, baggage handling at hotels, service charges, and tips for hotel wait staff (for included meals) will all be taken care of by your Travel Director. There are, however, a few instances where individual tipping is welcome.
Local Specialists
It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity equivalent to $1.00-$2.00 USD per person per half day.
Your Coach Driver and Travel Director
The trip cost does not include gratuities for your Travel Director and Driver. At the end of your trip, you may express appreciation to your Travel Director and Driver for their excellent service and the personal attention you received. Gratuities are given at the discretion of each guest, and a suggested amount per person/per day is listed in your travel documents.
For your convenience and ease, there is an option to pre-pay gratuities for the Travel Director and Driver at the time of booking.
Hotel services
It is customary to tip hotel staff for room service delivery if the charge has not already been added to the bill. Where ice machines are not available, and you receive ice from the bar, a small tip to the bartender is always appreciated.
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Email Sign-up Travel Credit: Receive a $150 per person ($300 per couple) discount toward your first tour (operated by Trafalgar or Insight Vacations) when you sign up for GET emails; valid for each full-paying adult who signs up with a unique email address. Valid for new bookings only made from 01 January to December 31 2025 for travel from 01 January 2025 to 31 December 2026. Full payment is due within three days of booking. Discount is not combinable with any other discount or offer, including GETAWAY Deals, Limited Time Offers, AARP member discount, Past Traveler Global Tour Rewards discount, Groups or Multiple Trip discounts. Offer cannot be booked online. GET reserves the right to validate bookings and will remove any additional offers added online that are not combinable. Other conditions may apply.