THE TREASURES OF NORTHERN FRANCE AND THE CHAMPAGNE REGION
With an Optional Paris Extension
Air and Land 9 Days, 8 Nights Including Hotels, Meals, Day Trips. Airfare From New York
Embark on a journey through the splendors of France with our exclusive two-destination program. Immerse yourself in the treasures of Northern France and the delightful Champagne Region. This extraordinary itinerary offers adventure, history, culture, and exquisite tastings set amid breathtaking landscapes and grand settings. Begin your tour with a special highlight as you visit Claude Monet’s beloved home in Giverny, where you’ll stroll through the colorful gardens and see the famous lily pond and Japanese bridge that inspired some of his most celebrated paintings. Continue to Caen, in the heart of Normandy, where you’ll savor the authentic flavors of France during your stay. Visit the charming port town of Honfleur, whose picturesque harbor and luminous coastal scenery inspired many of the great Impressionist painters. Journey onward to the iconic Mont-Saint-Michel, where this gravity-defying Benedictine abbey rises dramatically from the sea. Along the way, enjoy a taste of Normandy with a visit to the village of Camembert, where you’ll sample the region’s world-famous creamy cheese, a true symbol of French gastronomy. Step back in time as you explore the historic D-Day landing sites along the Normandy coast. Discover the medieval city of Rouen, famed for its magnificent Gothic cathedral and beautifully preserved half-timbered houses lining its historic streets. Continuing to the Champagne Region, you’ll be enchanted by the historic city of Reims. Here, immerse yourself in elegant Art Deco cafés and the fascinating world of champagne production. Indulge in France’s signature sparkling vintage during a tasting at a prestigious Champagne House. Extend your journey to iconic Paris, the “City of Light,” and experience an array of cultural delights, from world-class art and elegant boulevards to vibrant cafés and unforgettable evenings. This incredible tour offers a seamless blend of history, art, and culinary pleasures, all set against some of France’s most marvelous landscapes.
DESTINATION HIGHLIGHTS
Discover Caen • French Cheese • Northern France • Claude Monet house and Lilly pond • The Benedictine abbey of Mont St. Michel • Reims • The historic port of Honfleur • Impressionist painters history • The village of Camembert • Enjoy a tasting experience at Calvados Christian Drouin Distillery in Pays d’Auge • Walking tour of historic Reims • The Normandy D-Day sites • Sip on France’s signature sparkling vintage on a Champagne House Tour • The French way of life • Discover Paris, City of Light • Arc de Triomphe • Champs-Elysees • Notre Dame Cathedral • Montmartre’s Sacré-Coeur • Eiffel Tower • Palace of Versailles
MAIN PROGRAM INCLUDED FEATURES
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AIR TRANSPORTATION Air transportation from New York
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FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS 7 nights first class hotels
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MEALS 10 included meals consisting of 7 enhanced continental breakfasts and three dinners
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THE PROGRAM Sightseeing, including local guide and all entrance fees as follows: Claude Monet’s home and gardens tour in Giverny, Panoramic tour of Caen, a full-day tour of Honfleur, Camembert and cider distillery, Full day excursion to the Normandy Beaches and Omaha Beach and museum, Reims City tour and a tour of Epernay and the champagne region including tasting. Optional tours available
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JOURNEY OF DISCOVERY Our program encompasses cultural connections, in-depth learning of the local economy and social systems, and interaction with locals such as a visit to Claude Monet’s home and garden, cheese artisans in Camembert, Apple Brandy distillers, and champagne tasting in a famous Champagne House
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PROFESSIONAL TOUR DIRECTOR Assistance of a professional Tour Director during tours and transfers
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FIRST-CLASS MOTORCOACHES Touring by private first-class air-conditioned motorcoach
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BAGGAGE HANDLING AND TRANSFERS Baggage handling for one piece of checked luggage outside of the airport
OPTIONAL EXTENSION TO PARIS
INCLUDED FEATURES
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FIRST-CLASS ACCOMMODATIONS 2 nights first class hotels
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MEALS 2 included meals consisting of 2 breakfasts
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THE PROGRAM Sightseeing, including local guide and all entrance fees as follows: City tour of Paris with entrance to the Eiffel Tower and River Seine cruise
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PROFESSIONAL TOUR DIRECTOR Assistance of a professional Tour Director for the entire length of the tour
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BAGGAGE HANDLING AND TRANSFERS Baggage handling for one piece of checked luggage outside of the airport
Day 1 Depart the USA Begin your thrilling journey as you depart from the USA on an overnight flight to the enchanting city of Paris, France. Enjoy meals and beverages onboard.
Day 2 Arrive in Paris, France - Giverny - Caen Welcome to the captivating “City of Light,” Paris. Upon clearing customs and immigration, your tour director will warmly greet you as your adventure begins. Along the way to the magnificent city of Caen, your home base, for the next four magical nights, you will step into the world of Claude Monet with a visit to his enchanting home and the famous lily garden that inspired some of art history’s most beloved paintings. Explore the restored house, filled with vibrant colors and personal collections that reveal the life of the master Impressionist. Then wander the serene gardens, where seasonal blooms and the iconic Japanese bridge reflect across the tranquil water lily pond—an unforgettable glimpse into the landscapes behind Monet’s artistic genius. Upon arrival in Caen, enjoy an insightful panoramic Caen city tour, exploring the rich history and heritage of Normandy’s capital. See the Castle of William the Conqueror, the Church of St-Pierre, and more. Onwards, you check into your hotel. Relax and enjoy an included dinner at your hotel, savoring French culinary delights. (D)
Day 3 Caen - Normandy D-Day Tour - Caen Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before embarking on a full-day tour with your tour escort and specialized Battlefield Guide to the hallowed grounds of the Normandy D-Day sites. Immerse yourself in history as you explore the Arromanchesclifftops and observe the British military artifacts showcased in the Caen Mémorial collection. Pay your respects at The Normandy American Cemetery and reflect at the Walls of the Missing. Continue to the Omaha Beach Memorial Museum, a poignant tribute to the young men who made the ultimate sacrifice during the American naval landing. (B)
Day 4 Caen - Calvados Christian Drouin Distillery - Honfleur - Camembert - Caen
Begin your day with a Calvados Christian Drouin Distillery tour. This distillery is nestled within half-timbered 17th century buildings in the heart of the Pays d’Auge. Here, you sample its world-famous brandy. Next, tour Honfleur, a beautiful coastal town on the estuary where the Seine River meets the English Channel. See its charming harbor, which inspired many Impressionist painters, including Claude Monet, Eugène Boudin, and Johan Barthold Jongkind, whose work captured its ever-changing light, colorful boats, and atmospheric skies. Then see the 15th-century St. Catherine’s Church, a vaulted timber structure erected by shipbuilders. After some free time for lunch, you drive through the rolling hills of Normandy to Camembert. The village of Camembert is a storybook escape and the birthplace of its iconic cheese. Stroll through quaint streets lined with traditional cottages and let the aroma of cheese guide you to a local fromagerie. Here, indulge in a creamy, traditional Camembert tasting as cheesemakers share their passion and stories. Camembert offers a feast for the senses—a slice of French rural life you’ll never forget. Conclude the day with a delightful dinner back in Caen. (B,D)
Day 5 Caen Enjoy an independent day to explore or take an optional excursion to the breathtaking Mont Saint. Michel, one of France’s most iconic landmarks. As you approach this tidal island, you’ll be captivated by its towering spires and medieval walls rising dramatically from the sea. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Mont Saint. Michel is a masterpiece of architecture and history. Wander its narrow, cobblestone streets lined with charming shops and cafes and ascend to the awe-inspiring Benedictine abbey perched at its peak. Here, marvel at the intricate details of its design and enjoy panoramic views of the bay, where the tides famously sweep in and out. (B)
Day 6 Caen - Reims After breakfast at your hotel, bid farewell to Caenand and transfer to the splendid city of Reims. Stop in the historic town of Rouen, renowned for its half-timbered buildings and breathtaking gothic cathedral and the home of Joan of Arch. Continue your journey to Reims, nestled in the spectacular Champagne region. (B)
Day 7 Reims - City Tour - Epernay and Champagne Tour - Reims Enjoy a captivating city tour of Reims, including the revered Reims Cathedral. Your exploration continues with a visit to the picturesque village of Epernay, renowned for its abundance of major Champagne houses such as Moët and Chandon, De Castellane, Mercier, and Pol Roger –all situated along the Avenue de Champagne. Enter a famous Champagne house and traverse the cellars and caves to learn about this world-famous bubbly beverage. Then toast to life and adventure with an exquisite champagne tasting. (B)
Day 8 Reims Indulge in breakfast at your hotel and bask in a day of leisure or join an optional excursion to discover the Gems of Reims. Begin with visiting the Palace of Tau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former residence of French monarchs and the Archbishop of Reims. Embark on a walking tour to explore the captivating Art Deco architecture of Reims. End the day with an unforgettable farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Reims. (B,D)
Day 9 Reims to USA or extend your stay with an optional Paris extension Today journey back to Paris for your return flight to the USA. Alternatively, embrace the opportunity to extend your stay with an optional Paris extension to continue your journey of discovery. (B)
OPTIONAL PARIS EXTENSION
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Day 9 Reims - Paris - City Tour Following a delightful breakfast at your hotel, prepare to embrace the “joy of living” in the captivating city of Paris today! Begin with a sightseeing cruise on the Seine River, offering enchanting views of Parisian landmarks. Then, join a half-day panoramic Paris tour, mesmerized by the iconic attractions, including the Arc de Triomphe, Champs-Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral, Montmartre’s Basilique du Sacré-Coeur, and the Eiffel Tower, where you will enjoy access to the top. (B)
Day 10 Paris Today enjoy a free day for endless discoveries in Paris. Visit the Louvre, stroll down the Champs-Elysees, or watch the Parisian world go by. Alternatively, take an optional half-day tour to the opulent Palace of Versailles, an extraordinary UNESCO World Heritage Site and a remarkable 17th-century masterpiece. Gain a captivating glimpse into the world of French royalty, showcasing exquisite architecture, stunning gardens, and a rich historical legacy that has left an indelible mark on French history and culture. (B)
Day 11 Paris to the USA Today bid farewell to the city of love and enchantment as you transfer to Paris airport for your return flight home. Depart enriched with cherished memories of your captivating journey through France’s historical wonders, the mesmerizing Champagne region, and the incomparable city of Paris. (B)
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(B) - Breakfast, (L) - Lunch, (D) - Dinner.
Hotel (when listed) and Itinerary are subject to change. On some occasions the Eifel Tower will be substituted with the Montparnasse tower on the Paris extension. Quest Voyager reserves the right to make corrections or adjustments to the travel program as necessary.