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Paris, Provence & French Riviera Itinerary: France’s Iconic Regions
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Trip curated by Roman Karin
ExpertLa Mirande in Avignon earns its single night more than any longer stay would, and it's an accommodation call I always make without hesitation. The hotel occupies a 14th-century cardinal's palace directly against the Palais des Papes wall, and one evening in that inner courtyard before the tourist day ends gives the papal city a scale and intimacy that a standard hotel approach simply doesn't. The Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy excursion from Aix is the day that reveals a Provence the TGV-to-Nice circuit misses: the bauxite cliffs above the Vallée des Baux are genuinely vertiginous, and the Van Gogh connection in Saint-Paul-de-Mausole's cloister garden is one of the most affecting site-specific art experiences in France. For Nice as a finale, start the Cannes and Antibes day in Antibes rather than Cannes: the Picasso Museum in the Château Grimaldi runs light before the coastal lunch crowd reaches the old port.
La Mirande in Avignon earns its single night more than any longer stay would, and it's an accommodation call I always make without hesitation. The hotel occupies a 14th-century cardinal's palace directly against the Palais des Papes wall, and one evening in that inner courtyard before the tourist day ends gives the papal city a scale and intimacy that a standard hotel approach simply doesn't. The Les Baux-de-Provence and Saint-Rémy excursion from Aix is the day that reveals a Provence the TGV-to-Nice circuit misses: the bauxite cliffs above the Vallée des Baux are genuinely vertiginous, and the Van Gogh connection in Saint-Paul-de-Mausole's cloister garden is one of the most affecting site-specific art experiences in France. For Nice as a finale, start the Cannes and Antibes day in Antibes rather than Cannes: the Picasso Museum in the Château Grimaldi runs light before the coastal lunch crowd reaches the old port.
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Paris
Day 1 - 2
With the River Seine gently meandering through this incredible city in northern central France, the captivating, romantic city of Paris has been described in just about every possible way and is a dream destination for people the world over, boasting many famous landmarks, a rich history and idyllic Parisian scenes at every turn. The city features monument-lined boulevards, fascinating museums, classical bistros, bohemian art nouveau cafes, creative wine bars, stylish boutiques, and art galleries. Must-see attractions include: the impressive Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, the world-renowned Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe standing guard over the glamourous Champs Elysees Avenue. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample infamous French cuisine at an array of enticing ‘boulangeries’, ‘patisseries’, and ‘fromageries’.
Your accommodation
Hôtel Observatoire Luxembourg
With a stay at Hôtel Observatoire Luxembourg, you'll be centrally located in Paris, just a 3-minute walk from Luxembourg Gardens and 10 minutes by foot from Panthéon. This hotel is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) from Notre-Dame and 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Louvre Museum.
Take in the views from a terrace and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.
Make yourself at home in one of the 40 guestrooms featuring minibars and espresso makers. 39-inch LCD televisions with satellite programming provide entertainment, while complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected. Private bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks.
Your activity
Seine River dinner cruise
Experience the epitome of French elegance with the Seine River Dinner Cruise at 20h30, featuring the exquisite Etoile Menu. This enchanting evening promises more than just a meal; it offers a cultural and sensory journey through the heart of Paris, set against the backdrop of the iconic Seine River.
Savor Exquisite French Gastronomy
Our renowned Chef presents a menu that celebrates the finest in traditional French cuisine. Each dish is a testament to culinary artistry, crafted daily on board with fresh, seasonal ingredients. The emphasis is on harnessing the pure, authentic flavors of each component, presented with understated elegance. Through a meticulous cooking technique and artful presentation, every plate served on our cruise becomes a masterpiece.
Two Worlds, One Unforgettable Experience
Choose between day and night ambiances aboard our fully glazed vessel, offering unparalleled views of Paris’s majestic cityscape. As you glide past renowned landmarks, enjoy the warm glow of the city lights or the vibrant colors of the sunset.
Throughout your journey, indulge in our impeccable service, where every detail is attended to with care and sophistication. To elevate your dining experience, live musical entertainment graces the ambiance, providing a melodious backdrop that enhances the charm of your cruise.
Join us for an unforgettable evening on the Seine River, where culinary excellence meets the magic of Paris in a uniquely memorable setting.
IMPORTANT: Boarding: Boarding: Pier 5 or Pier 7
Boarding ends: 8:00 pm
Boat departs: 8:30 pm
Return to dock: 11:00 pm
Avignon
Day 3
Positioned at the confluence of the Rhone and Durance Rivers in southeastern France’s Provence region, Avignon is a town of good looks and rich cultural treasures. As the French capital of Christendom in the fourteenth century, Avignon grew into a thriving city with a prestigious cultural heritage, still visible today in the fascinating architectural monuments lining the cobbled streets of the medieval old town. Many of the old town’s monuments have been transformed into quirky cafes, boutiques, and even a movie theatre; however, the 'Le Palais des Papes’ remains unchanged as a reminder of the luxurious decadence afforded by the papacy. Today Avignon’s vibrant student scene, designer boutiques, and trendy restaurants combine to form a seductive blend of medieval history, youthful energy, and urban sophistication.
Your accommodation
La Mirande
With a stay at La Mirande, you'll be centrally located in Avignon, steps from Palais des Papes and Avignon Cathedral. This luxury hotel is 0.3 mi (0.6 km) from Rocher des Doms and 2 mi (3.1 km) from Place de l'Horloge.
Take in the views from a terrace and a garden and make use of amenities such as complimentary wireless internet access. Additional features at this hotel include concierge services, babysitting (surcharge), and gift shops/newsstands.
Make yourself at home in one of the 26 guestrooms featuring refrigerators and flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and satellite programming is available for your entertainment. Bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and complimentary newspapers.
Your activity
Admission Palais des Papes & Gardens
Embark on a captivating journey through history. This comprehensive visit offers a deep dive into the historical, architectural, and cultural wonders of Avignon. From the majestic halls of the Palais des Papes to the legendary Avignon Bridge, this experience is designed to transport you back to the grandeur of medieval France.
Commence your exploration at Place du Palais des Papes, 84000 Avignon. The site is open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, offering flexibility to suit your schedule.
Tour Highlights:
- Histopad Experience at Palais des Papes: Upon entry, you'll receive a complimentary Histopad, a digital tablet available in seven languages. This innovative tool enhances your journey through the Palais des Papes with augmented reality, allowing you to visualize its rooms as they appeared in the 14th century. Dive into the history and witness the past come alive through engaging, interactive content.
- Architectural Masterpiece: Discover the construction techniques and architectural mastery that make the Palais des Papes a Gothic marvel. Learn about its splendid decorations and the influential papal court that once resided here. With over 20 significant locations to explore, including the papal private apartments adorned with frescoes by Italian artist Matteo Giovannetti, the palace offers a fascinating glimpse into the opulence and spiritual power of the era.
- Palais des Papes Gardens: Stroll through the peaceful and beautifully designed gardens surrounding the palace. These gardens offer a serene escape and a perfect opportunity to reflect on the historical richness you’ve experienced.
- Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon): Continue your journey to the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet, commonly known as the Pont d'Avignon. This engineering marvel, built in the 12th century, once spanned the Rhône River, connecting its two banks. Though only four of the original 22 arches remain, the bridge stands as a legendary monument emblematic of the region and rich in folklore and history.
Join us for a memorable exploration of Avignon's most iconic landmarks and uncover the stories and secrets of its past. Ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture fans, and curious travelers alike, this visit promises an unforgettable glimpse into the grandeur and cultural richness of medieval France.
Aix-en-Provence
Day 4 - 5
With all the style, culture and sophistication of Paris but with none of the crowds and tourist traps, Aix-en-Provence is the perfect holiday destination for travellers seeking a relaxed and authentic French experience. This stately town is idyllically situated in a picturesque landscape surrounded by quaint, sleepy villages at the foot of the Sainte-Victoire Mountain. One can’t help but be seduced by the splendour of the baroque architecture, the avenues of leafy plane trees, and the quietly gurgling moss-covered fountains which adorn meticulously manicured gardens. The city’s maze of tiny medieval streets forms an ideal setting for groups of immaculately dressed locals posing in the numerous chic cafes and stylish boutiques. With all its decadent elegance, it is easy to see why Aix-en-Provence has become synonymous with l'art de vivre (the art of living).
Your accommodation
Negrecoste Hotel & Spa
A stay at Negrecoste Hotel & Spa places you in the heart of Aix-en-Provence, steps from Cours Mirabeau and Fontaine Moussue. This spa hotel is 12.1 mi (19.4 km) from Luberon Regional Park and 0.1 mi (0.2 km) from Place des Quatre-Dauphins.
Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages, body treatments, and facials. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including a hot tub and a sauna. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access and concierge services.
Make yourself at home in one of the 35 individually decorated guestrooms, featuring free minibar items and flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with premium bedding. Complimentary wireless internet access keeps you connected, and digital programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with bathtubs or showers feature designer toiletries and hair dryers.
Your activity
Wine and Cheese tasting
Embark on a captivating journey of flavors nestled in the vibrant heart of Aix-en-Provence at La Cave du Cours Mirabeau. This delightful experience invites you to explore the exquisite pairing of French wines and cheeses. Perfect for both novices and seasoned aficionados, this tasting offers a deep dive into the art of pairing three thoughtfully curated wines—a red, a white, and a rosé—with complementary, delectable French cheeses.
Guided by an expert local connoisseur, you'll gain insight into the intricate flavors and textures that define Provence's renowned culinary traditions. The relaxed, intimate setting ensures a personal and engaging experience, allowing you to fully savor each pairing and learn the nuances of this celebrated art.
The setting for this memorable tasting is the charming basement cellar of La Cave du Cours Mirabeau, situated within the storied walls of the Hotel d'Arbaud-Jouques. Built in 1792, this historic building has played host to illustrious visitors including Charles IV of Spain and the Duc d'Angoulême, along with other crowned dignitaries. As you make your way to our tasting cellar, take a moment to admire the building's remarkably adorned front door—one of the most elaborate in Aix-en-Provence. Once inside, you'll find yourself in the former kitchens of this grand hôtel particulier, where history and hospitality come together to create an ambiance that enriches your tasting experience.
Come, join us for an unforgettable exploration of tastes, history, and culture in one of southern France's most scenic locales.
Pickup: La Cave du Cours Mirabeau, 19 Cour Mirabeau, 13100 Aix-en-Provence
Nice
Day 6 - 8
Art lovers can marvel at the impressive collections housed in the city’s numerous world-class museums including the Matisse Museum, Musée Chagall, the Musée d’Art Moderne et d’Art Contemporain, and the Musée et Site Archeologiques de Cimiez, which includes the ruins of the Gallo-Roman settleNice is a fairly large French city situated on the French Riviera with spectacular Alps-to-Mediterranean surroundings. It is well known for its breathtaking views along the Promenade des Anglais, its famous waterfront, lined with deck chairs, perfect for spending a lazy afternoon in the sun alongside the azure water of the Bay of Angels. ment in Cimiez. Architecture enthusiasts will find plenty to peak their interest in the ocher-tinted streets of the city’s charming Old Town. These narrow, traffic-free alleyways are lined with romantic cafes, picturesque houses and boutiques, as well as the famous flower and fruit market of the Cours Saleya. With its perfect balance of modern sophistication and old-world charm, nice is a popular destination for vacationers both young and old, with something to offer nearly everyone.
Your accommodation
Hotel Nice Riviera
Hotel Nice Riviera is centrally located in Nice, a 3-minute walk from Place Massena and 9 minutes by foot from Promenade des Anglais. This beach hotel is 1.6 mi (2.6 km) from Port of Nice and 7.4 mi (11.9 km) from Allianz Riviera.
Be sure to enjoy recreational amenities including an indoor pool and a sauna. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and a television in a common area.
Make yourself at home in one of the 120 air-conditioned rooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Complimentary wireless internet access is available to keep you connected. Bathrooms feature showers, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers. Conveniences include phones, as well as laptop-compatible safes and desks.
Your activity
French Riviera Tour
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the French Riviera with a journey that promises unforgettable moments at every turn. Begin your adventure by admiring the stunning vistas that stretch across the coastline. In the picturesque medieval village of Èze, you'll embark on a guided walking tour of the renowned Fragonard Perfumery, where the art of fragrance comes to life.
Next, venture into the charming old town of Monaco, where you can explore the grandeur of the Cathedral and the stately Prince's Palace square. The excitement continues with a ride around the iconic Formula 1 Grand Prix circuit, followed by a visit to the famed Place du Casino in Monte Carlo, a true masterpiece of elegance.
After a leisurely 30-minute lunch break, delve into the rich history of Antibes' old town. Here, you'll uncover the city's Greek origins as you stroll through its historic ramparts and delightful squares, while breathing in the enchanting atmosphere of Cap d'Antibes.
Finally, your journey culminates in Cannes, where you'll walk along the glamorous Croisette, step onto the famous Festival red carpet, and explore the historic allure of Le Suquet’s old town. Each location you visit offers a unique glimpse into the captivating allure of the French Riviera, ensuring a truly inspiring adventure.
