France: Paris & Provence

Discover France’s timeless beauty, from Paris to Provence and the Riviera. This small group tour blends iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, and leisure time. Explore Notre-Dame, Versailles, and the Eiffel Tower. Wander through Aix-en-Provence, uncover Roman ruins in Arles and Nîmes, and savor the vineyards of Avignon. Conclude along the sparkling Riviera, from Saint-Tropez to the Calanques of Cassis.

  • May 20, 2026 – May 29, 2026
  • 10 Days | 15 Meals
  • From $4,950 per person 
  • Marvel at Versailles’ opulent halls and gardens, admire masterpieces in the Louvre, climb the heights of Sacré-Cœur, stand before the Pont du Gard, trace Van Gogh’s legacy in Arles, sip wines in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and cruise the turquoise Calanques of Cassis.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Timhotel Montmatre

Arrive in Paris

Your French adventure begins with a private coach transfer into the heart of Paris. After settling into your three star hotel, step out with your guide for a walking tour of Notre-Dame and the historic city center. Meander past graceful bridges, lively squares, and elegant boulevards that capture the city’s timeless charm. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcoming three-course dinner with wine, a perfect start to your journey. D

Day 2 | Timhotel Montmartre

Palace of Versailles

Set off for the grandeur of the Palace of Versailles. Wander through the opulent royal apartments and stroll the vast gardens designed by Le Nôtre, a masterpiece of French landscaping. After a three-course lunch in Versailles, return to Paris for an afternoon tour of Montmartre. Discover its bohemian charm with cobbled streets, bustling cafés, the famed artists’ square, and the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica. The evening is yours to dine and explore at leisure. B, L

Day 3 | Timhotel Montmarte

Louvre & Eiffel Tower

Begin the day at the legendary Louvre, where a guided visit reveals masterpieces from the Mona Lisa to the Winged Victory of Samothrace and the Venus de Milo. After lunch at leisure, ascend the Eiffel Tower for panoramic views across Paris, an unforgettable highlight of the city. As night falls, glide along the Seine on a river cruise, taking in Paris’s illuminated bridges and monuments from the water. Return to your hotel with the evening free to relax or enjoy dinner at your own pace. B, D

Day 4 | Hotel Des Augustins

Aix-en-Provence

Board the high-speed TGV south to Provence and arrive in Aix-en-Provence, a town of fountains, markets, and sunlit charm. In the afternoon, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Town, where elegant boulevards, lively squares, and colorful façades reveal the spirit of southern France. Trace the footsteps of painter Paul Cézanne and soak in the Provençal atmosphere before an evening free to dine at your leisure. B

Day 5 | Hotel des Augustins

Arles & Nîmes

Journey into the heart of Roman Provence with a full-day excursion to Arles and Nîmes. In Arles, explore the impressive Roman amphitheater and discover the town’s artistic legacy, forever tied to Vincent van Gogh. After lunch at leisure, continue to Nîmes to see one of the best-preserved arenas of the Roman world. Conclude the day at the Pont du Gard, a breathtaking three-tier aqueduct that has stood since the 1st century AD. Return to Aix-en-Provence for an evening at leisure. B

Day 6 | Hotel des Augustins

Avignon & Winery Tour

Step into the medieval city of Avignon, once the seat of the Popes. Visit the grand Palais des Papes (exterior) and stroll across the famous Pont d’Avignon, set against the Rhône River. After lunch at leisure, head into the Provençal countryside for a wine experience among rolling vineyards, olive groves, and lavender fields. Tour renowned estates, walk the vines, and taste celebrated wines such as Côtes du Rhône and Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Return to Aix-en-Provence for a lovely group dinner at a local restaurant. B, D

Day 7 | Hotel Marina

St. Tropez

Discover the soul of Saint-Tropez on a guided walking tour through its historic Old Town. From the bustling Place des Lices to the yacht-filled Vieux Port, you’ll experience the perfect mix of Provençal tradition and Riviera glamour. In the afternoon, travel to the seaside town of Saint-Raphaël, your home for the next 3 nights, where the Mediterranean sparkles against a backdrop of palm-lined promenades. B, D

Day 8 | Hotel Marina

Cassis & Calanques

Travel along the coast to Cassis, a charming fishing village with a colorful harbor and relaxed Mediterranean vibe. From here, board a boat to explore the Calanques—soaring limestone cliffs and turquoise coves that form one of southern France’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. After lunch at leisure, continue with a stop in Sanary-sur-Mer, a picturesque seaside town, before returning to Saint-Raphaël for the evening. B

Day 9 | Hotel Marina

Free Day & Farewell Dinner

Savor a full day at leisure in Saint-Raphaël. Relax on the beach, stroll the palm-lined promenade, or browse the town’s boutiques and cafés at your own pace. In the evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a special farewell dinner at a seaside restaurant, toasting the memories of your French journey with fine food, wine, and coastal views. B, D

Day 10

Au Revoir

After breakfast, check out and transfer to Nice Airport for your flight home, carrying with you the memories of your French discovery. B

Dates and Prices

Tour Dates:
May 20 – May 29, 2026

Pricing:*
Double: $4,950 per person
Single: $6,150 per person

Tour Deposit: $250 per person

To reserve your place please follow the link below to signup. The tour manager will then contact you to complete your reservation and tour deposit.

 

What's Included

  • Full-time services of expert tour host Jack Baumann with over 15 years of travel experience.
  • 9 nights premium accommodation
  • All of your tours and activities as listed in the itinerary
  • Private Transportation by luxury motor coach
  • Personal Guidester travel guide that will help you explore in your free time
  • Airport transfers to and from hotel on arrival and departure
  • 15 meals (9 breakfasts, 1 lunches, 5 dinners)
  • Welcome dinner in Paris
  • Guided walking tour of Notre-Dame and Paris city center
  • Guided visit to the Palace of Versailles
  • Walking tour of Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
  • Admission to the Louvre Museum
  • Visit to the Eiffel Tower
  • Seine River Cruise
  • Walking tour of Old Town Aix-en-Provence
  • Full-day excursion to Arles & Nîmes
  • Visit to the Pont du Gard
  • Guided exploration of Avignon
  • Wine tastings at Provençal estates
  • Guided tour of Saint-Tropez Old Town
  • Boat excursion through the Calanques of Cassis
  • Stop at Sanary-sur-Mer
  • Farewell dinner at a seaside restaurant in Saint-Raphaël

Lavender Fields in Provence

Hotels - 3/4* Centrally Located, Premium Accommodations

Timhotel Montmarte, Paris (or similar)

Timhotel Montmartre combines comfort and charm in the heart of Paris’s artistic quarter. Overlooking a quiet square near Sacré-Cœur, it offers classic rooms and modern amenities. Its prime Montmartre location makes it the ideal base for discovering Paris’s bohemian spirit and iconic landmarks.

Hôtel des Augustins, Aix-en-Provence (or similar)

Hôtel des Augustins blends historic character with modern comfort, set within a former 12th-century convent in the heart of Aix-en-Provence. Just steps from Cours Mirabeau, it offers classic rooms and a welcoming atmosphere, making it the perfect base for exploring the town’s fountains, markets, and lively squares.

Hotel Marina, Saint Raphael (or similar)

Hotel Marina offers modern comfort along the sparkling Riviera, with inviting rooms and a relaxed seaside atmosphere. Its convenient location near Saint-Raphaël’s beaches and marina makes it an ideal base for enjoying the town’s coastal charm and Mediterranean views.

Vineyards surrounding Avignon
pont st benezet with lavender fields in avignon, france
Pont Saint-Bénézet in Avignon
Palace of the Popes in Avignon
luxury yachts in the port of st tropez, france
Port of Saint Tropez
Colorful fishing village of Cassis
Cap Canaille
The Calanques
Notre Dame de la Victoire Basilica in saint raphael
Notre Dame Basilica in Saint Raphael
Sanary-sur-mer

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What Our Guests Say

We take pride in giving our tour guests the best experience. Read what they have to say.

WOW! I just returned from the Wild Wales tour and it was amazing! It had everything! Beautiful beaches, charming castles, astounding cathedrals, quaint villages, and fantastic food. It was a small group of travelers so I got to know everyone. I was most impressed by Jack's willingness to share his vast knowledge of Wales and his love of travel. He is a special person. If you are looking for a fantastic tour company, give Guidester a call.
Teresa W.
Our second trip with Jack was the Wild Wales Tour. We wouldn't go with anyone else! He spoils us with his knowledge, kindness, and care. Our trip to Wales was wonderful!
Linda F.
Had a great trip to Italy. The group was small, 17 people, and we were able to get the full experience of the major attractions as well as off the beaten path places. The restaurants Jack selected were outstanding. And going to places that tourist don't normally go to was great. Jack is very knowledgeable about history and secured local tour guides that were also knowledgeable as well as entertaining. The tour had both busy days as well as down time. The tour was very well planned. We are definitely look at booking another guidester tour for next year.
Bob K.
Having taken 3 trips with Jack, I always appreciate the attention to detail and quality that Jack has for the trips he leads. Time is balanced between scheduled, group events and free time to explore the city, using the guide we’re provided before the trip begins. It’s clear that Jack has a love of all things Europe, which he works to impart onto those on the trip.
Adam B.
I just returned from Guidester’s Classic Germany trip, and what an incredible experience it was! A small group of friendly fellow travelers, excellent accommodations, knowledgeable and personable local guides, comfortable transportation, excellent food in authentic and historic venues, and Jack’s extensive knowledge of European history, which he shares freely. The trip was well-planned to include the main sights you shouldn’t miss, and the unique experiences that most tour companies can’t provide, like a farmhouse cheese dinner, wine tastings and a table at Oktoberfest Jack makes his trips easy and fun, taking excellent care of his travelers from start to finish. I can’t wait for my next trip!
Margie O.
There is no way I could have put together the adventure that Jack organized for us on the taste of Italy tour. To pack so much in, not feel rushed, have amazing place to stay just would not have happened I have always been a do it yourself person no matter what it is on this occasion at a friends advice joined Jacks tour. The experience exceeded my expectations fro the first hotel to the last day of departure. The advice on what to see when to see where to eat what sights to prioritize was invaluable in using my vacation time in the best way possible. Jack I also appreciated the personal time you were able to give everyone and the individual attention to their interest. Well done and thank you!
Jim F.
This was our 2nd trip to Europe. We definitely didn't want a cookie cutter trip, on a tour bus, that took us past 7 cities in 8 days. Jack plans his tours very carefully and he is very knowledgeable regarding the sites we visited. The groups are small so you have a chance to get to know your fellow travelers. And, Jack is a lot of fun, he makes everyone feel at ease.
Elaine K.
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