Cities, Chateaux & Mediterranean Magic

Included:

• All flights
• Accommodation
• All transfers
• Activities
• Breakfast only

Trip Highlights:

• Caen
• Loire Valley
• Mont Saint-Michel
• Normandy
• Paris
• Tours
• Barcelona
• Madrid

Begin your adventure in Paris and discover the chateaux of the Loire Valley. Visit Mont-Saint-Michel and enjoy the wonderful landscapes of the Normandy coast. Visit the historic World War II landing beaches before heading to the Spanish capital of Madrid to delight in its vibrant culture and cuisine. Finally, get to know Barcelona, home to Mediterranean beaches and modernist architecture!

• 1st Day: Canada - Night on board

Ready to discover the spectacular cities and landscapes of France? Arrive at your departure airport to catch a flight to Paris.* Night on board.

* If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

• 2nd Day: Paris

Arrive at Paris airport and transfer to your hotel. 

Paris is the capital of France and a great place to discover the city’s most famous tourist sights, the local culture and cuisine. 

Overnight stay in Paris.

• 3rd Day: Paris

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city’s most famous tourist sights and monuments on a Half Day Sightseeing Tour by bus with a professional English-speaking guide.

Marvel at Paris's best-known sights: Place Vendôme Square, place de l’opera, the Pantheon, Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Invalides and the Eiffel Tower. End your tour in the city center. Why not grab a bite to eat in one of the many cafés or do a spot of shopping in this shoppers heaven. The rest of the day is free to explore Paris at your leisure. Overnight stay in Paris.

• 4th Day: Paris - Orleans - Chambord - Tours

After breakfast, meet your English-speaking tour leader and depart Paris by coach towards the Loire Valley and its wonders of the Renaissance period. First stop is the capital of the Centre-Val de Loire region, Orleans. The history of this lovely city on the banks of the Loire River is inseparably bound with the history of Joan of Arc. While exploring the city independently, try not to miss the 13th century Sainte-Croix Cathedral and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, displaying around 700 artworks. After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to The Chambord Estate* one of the most emblematic castle examples of Renaissance architecture in France. Free time to stroll at your own pace in the heart of the castle and its gardens. Following this visit, transfer to the historic city of Tours. Overnight stay in Tours.

* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot. 

• 5th Day: Tours - Chenonceau - Tours

After Breakfast at the hotel, explore the magnificent Castle of Chenonceau*. The two-story gallery stands upon a graceful arched bridge that crosses the Cher River which gives the impression that the castle is floating on water. Also known as "The Ladies’ Castle", it was initially constructed in 1513. Equalling the beauty of the interior, the Château's Renaissance French Gardens are perfectly landscaped with decorative pools and flower beds and are an important destination for garden lovers from all over the world. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Château of Amboise, an emblematic monument of the Loire Valley. The palace was built above the river, with landscaped gardens stretching from the earth to the sky, offering one of the most remarkable panoramas of the Loire. Overnight stay in Tours.

* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.

• 6th Day: Tours - Mont Saint Michel

Breakfast at the hotel. Depart from Tours heading towards the world-renowned Mont Saint Michel, a Unesco World Heritage site. The car park stands approximately 1.5 miles away from the island. On leaving the coach, head for the Place des Navettes, where shuttle buses called Passeurs transfer to the mount itself. The Mount was consecrated to St-Michel from the year 708. The Benedictine Abbey* presents a grand panorama of medieval architecture from the XI-XVI centuries. Spend some time exploring the village built on the slopes in the shadow of the fortifications. Overnight in the surrounding area.

* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot. 

• 7th Day: Mont Saint Michel - Day Beaches Tour - Caen

After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of WW-II’s major sights. Visit, learn about and pay homage to Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach and Colleville-Sur-Mer Cemetery, of the Allied Forces. Also a visit to the Memorial de Caen*, a museum and war memorial commemorating World War II and the Battle for Caen, is included. Overall the museum is dedicated to the history of the twentieth century, mainly focusing on the fragility of peace. Overnight stay in Caen.

* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.

• 8th Day: Caen - Honfleur - Paris

After breakfast, learn more about the best food and drink that this rich region of France has to offer, starting with a visit to the Village du Fromager. See all stages of cheese production and enjoy tasting the different types of cheese on offer. After the visit, head to Honfleur in time for a lunch break.

This small city and harbour dates back to the Vikings invasion in the 11th century. After a couple of hours exploring the city, continue eastwards until reaching Paris.

Overnight stay in Paris.

• 9th Day: Paris - Madrid

Breakfast at the hotel.* It's time to continue your European tour, as you head for Spain! At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Madrid. Touch down in Madrid, the enigmatic capital city of Spain, known for its fast-paced atmosphere, classical architecture and beautiful plazas and parks. Transfer to the hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace. 

Madrid is well-known for its brilliant gastronomic scene and lively nightlife, so be sure to get out after dark to experience the amazing atmosphere of the capital. Overnight stay in Madrid.

* Depending on the flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

• 10th Day: Madrid

Breakfast at the hotel. Make your own way to the nearest pick-up point and discover Madrid aboard a double-decker tour bus. Hop-on and hop-off the bus as many times as you wish and enjoy the city at your own pace. There are two different routes available. Route 1 (blue) will take you to discover the Historical Madrid and includes a complete historical, artistic and monumental tour. Discover the beautiful Paseo del Prado or admire magnificent buildings, legacy of the Habsburgs period. The second route (green) goes through Modern Madrid. Discover the city beyond historical landmarks and royal monuments. The itinerary will take you by the impressive KIO towers, Museum of Public Art and Real Madrid stadium.

The rest of the day is free to enjoy the world-class cuisine, excellent shopping and limitless cultural treasures of Madrid at your leisure. We recommend a half-day excursion to the city of Toledo.* Overnight stay in Madrid.

* Optional Afternoon Excursion to Toledo: Set off this afternoon for the historic city of Toledo, known as the 'City of Three Cultures' for its fusion of Jewish, Muslim and Christian histories. Discover this once powerful Imperial City and its eclectic mix of architectural styles.

• 11th Day: Madrid

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy a day to discover Madrid at your leisure. Why not soak up a little culture at the incredible Prado Museum or go shopping along the Gran Via? For an afternoon stroll, we recommend El Retiro Park, home to a beautiful boating lake, stone fountains and the elegant Crystal Palace. Alternatively, why not enjoy an excursion to Ávila and Segovia*? As night falls, be sure to get out and enjoy Madrid's vibrant nightlife! The city is known for its many rooftop bars where you can enjoy sunset drinks alongside excellent views of the city! Overnight stay in Madrid.

* Optional Excursion to Ávila & Segovia: Set off for the charming city of Ávila, one of the best-preserved medieval fortified cities in Spain. Enjoy a walking tour through the old town to discover its Gothic palaces, fortified cathedral and Romanesque-style churches. Visit the incredible Walls of Ávila and enjoy free time to explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site at your own pace.

Next, set off for Segovia, where you'll stop for a gastronomic lunch before continuing the day with a guided tour of the exterior of Segovia Cathedral and an atmospheric walk through the old Jewish Quarter. Finally, enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Alcazar of Segovia, a castle said to have inspired Walt Disney and one of the most enchanting medieval fortifications in Europe!

• 12th Day: Madrid - Barcelona

Breakfast at the hotel. Leave the capital behind as you transfer to the train station to catch a high-speed train to Barcelona. Arrive in the Catalonian capital and transfer to your hotel. A vibrant city, known for its artistic heritage and the amazing architecture of Gaudi, spend the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the historic streets of the Barrio Gothic or strolling along the seafront in the old fishing neighborhood of Barceloneta. Overnight stay in Barcelona.

• 13th Day: Barcelona

Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city today on a combined walking and bus tour of Barcelona. Find your own way to the meeting point at Barcelona's Estació del Nord to meet your guide and set off on a walking tour of the historic neighborhoods of Born and the Gothic Quarter. Stroll along some of the most emblematic streets in the city before reaching the incredible Barcelona Cathedral, famed for its magnificent Gothic architecture. Entrance to the cathedral is included and enjoy time to explore the interior on your own before continuing the walking tour to uncover the secrets of one of the oldest parts of the city. Next, board an air-conditioned coach for a panoramic tour of Barcelona's most important sights. See the beautiful Mediterranean Coastline and Port Olympic, pass by the old fisherman's quarter of Barceloneta and head inland to the leafy neighborhood of Montjuïc. Famous as the stage for the 1992 Olympic Games, learn how this event transformed the city. Take the Montjuïc cable car for amazing views across the entire city and visit MNAC Viewpoint for captivating panoramas of Barcelona. On the way back to the meeting point, drive along spectacular Passeig de Gracia to see some of the most emblematic architecture of Gaudi, such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. End the tour and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, making the most of the city's incredible beaches or indulging in Barcelona's many tapas bars. Overnight stay in Barcelona.

Please note: the Montjuïc cable car is under maintenance between January and early March. If you visit during this time, this cable car ride will be replaced by a ride on the Port Cable Car instead. 

Important information: The days when there is no availability for the Barcelona city tour, a 1-day-pass of the hop-on-hop-off bus will be offered.

• 14th Day: Barcelona

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy today in Barcelona to explore at your leisure! Why not get to know the vibrant neighborhood of El Raval or pay a visit to Park Guell in Gracia, the fantastical creation of architect Antoni Gaudi? For an afternoon stroll be sure to visit Parque de la Ciudadela, one of the most popular green spaces in the city. On the other hand, don't miss the chance to visit the world-famous La Sagrada Familia, perhaps the most famous of all of Gaudi's architectural masterpieces! Overnight stay in Barcelona.

* Optional Fast Track Sagrada Familia & Gaudi's Artistic Works: Visit two of the most important landmarks in Barcelona, the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Admire Gaudí’s mastery and learn about the symbolism of his incredible works. Discover some of the most emblematic modernist monuments in the city and enjoy two more important Gaudí works: La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.

• 15th Day: Barcelona

Breakfast at the hotel. Enjoy your final day in this magical, vibrant city and soak up the charms of Barcelona. Whether you're heading to the beach or uncovering the treasures held in the city's museums and art galleries, you're sure to fall in love with this lively regional capital. Overnight stay in Barcelona.

• 16th Day: Barcelona - Canada

Breakfast at the hotel.* Sadly, it's time to bring your journey through France and Spain to an end. At the indicated time, take a private transfer to the airport for your flight back to Canada. Arrive in Canada and end your trip.**

* Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

** Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in Canada the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 17 days.

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Included activities

• Paris Sightseeing Tour

Discover some of the most iconic and memorable places of Paris and admire the beauty of this incredible and romantic city. See Place Vendôme Square, marvel at the Paris Opera House and head to the Latin Quarter to see the impressive Pantheon.

What's included: Pick up at hotel. Panoramic tour of Paris by bys with english speaking guide. Stop at Eiffel Tower for pictures. Not included: Drop off at hotels, entrance tickets to monuments, meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in `what's included´

• Visit to the Chambord Chateaux & Estate

Visit the incredible Chambord Castle & Estate, one of the most emblematic chateaux in France and the finest example of French-Renaissance architecture!

What's included: Entrance included. Free time to discover the castle and its gardens Not included: Audio-guide (can be purchased at the destination)

• Visit to the Castle of Chenonceau

Known as the 'Ladies Castle', this two-story castle perched on a bridge over the River Cher. Constructed in 1513, the castle is defined by an almost uninterrupted succession of women who built, restored and saved it.

What's included: Entrance included Not included: Audio-guide (can be purchased at the destination)

• Castle of Amboise

This historic Castle, built in the late 15th century, became the favored royal residence under Charles VIII. Thereafter a place of residence for French kings from the 15th to the 19th century.

What's included: Entrance fee to Castle of Amboise. Free time to visit the site. Not included: Guide or audio-guide, meals, drinks, tips or any other service not mentioned in what's included.

• Mont Saint-Michel

This World Heritage Site is the symbol of Normandy and second most visited monument in France.

What's included: Entrance fee to the Abbey. Free time to discover Mont Saint-Michel Not included: Guide or audio-guide, meals, drinks, tips or anyother service not mentioned in `what's included´

• Caen Memorial Museum

The museum focuses on the history of the twentieth The museum commemorates the history of the twentieth century and the fragility of peace. Focus on World War 2, D-Day in June 1944 and the Battle of Normandy.and the fragility of peace. World War 2, D-Day i

What's included: Entrance included Not included: Audio-guide (can be purchased at the destination)

• Normandy WW-II Landing Beaches

Discover the cemeteries, sites and museums of the D-Day destination. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of some of WW-II’s major sights of the Allied Forces.

What's included: Guided tour of some of the WW-II major sights Not included: Meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in `whats's included´

• Village Fromager and Cheese Tasting

See all stages of cheese production and enjoy tasting the different types of cheese on offer.

• Madrid City Tour Hop-on/Hop-off

Get to know Madrid on a sightseeing bus tour and visit the city's highlights. Route 1 focuses on historic Madrid and Route 2 explores the modern side of the city.

What's included: Air-conditioned buses. Map with information on services and stops and audio guide in several languages. Not included: Food and beverages. Hotel pick up and drop off.

Buses depart between every 7 and 15 minutes. You can get on and off at any of its stops. Limited access during 24 hours.

• Walking & Panoramic Tour of Barcelona with Cable Car Ride

Begin with a walking tour through the historic neighbourhoods of Born and the Gothic Quarter. Visit Barcelona Cathedral before embarking on a panoramic tour, including the Olympic Port and Montjuic. Cable Car ride in Montjuic included.

What's included: Entrance to the Cathedral of Barcelona and Montjuïc cable car ride. Transportation on an air-conditioned coach. Local guide. Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified. Hotel pick up and drop off.

The duration of the tour includes transportation. Departure point at Estació del Nord, ground floor, platform 19. End of January - beginning of March the cable car is under maintenance and the service will be replaced by the Port Cable Car.

Available Activities

Activities are subject to availability for an additional cost. 

• Half-Day Afternoon Excursion to Toledo

Set off this afternoon for the historic city of Toledo, known as the 'City of Three Cultures' for its fusion of Jewish, Muslim and Christian histories. Discover this once powerful Imperial City and its eclectic mix of architectural styles.

Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified. Hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Please note photography and filming are not permitted inside the Church of St. Tomé. Departure point c/ San Nicolás 15, Madrid. The duration of the tour includes transportation.

• Full-Day Excursion to Ávila & Segovia with lunch

Visit two of Spain's most historic cities. Enjoy a walking tour through Avila's old town and explore its historic city walls. Visit Segovia, stroll through the old Jewish Quarter and enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Alcazar. Lunch included.

What's included: Admission to the Alcazar of Segovia and to the Walls of Ávila. Transportation on an air-conditioned coach, local official guide and gastronomic lunch menu. 

Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified.

Meeting point is in San Nicolás 15, Madrid. The duration of the tour includes transportation. From November to March only available on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday.

• Fast Track Sagrada Familia & Gaudi's Artistic Works

Visit the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell. Admire Gaudí’s mastery and learn about the symbolism of his incredible works. Discover some of the most emblematic modernist monuments in the city and admire the beauty of La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.

What's included: Admission to Park Güell and Sagrada Familia. Transportation on an air-conditioned coach and local guide. 

Not included: Food and drinks, unless specified, admission to Casa Milà (La Pedrera) and Casa Batlló. Hotel pick-up and drop-off .

Ready to experience this breathtaking part of Western Europe?   Reach out to our team to start planning your vacation today.