Northern France Tour - Small Group

Start your tour in Honfleur, in the idyllic gardens of Claude Monet. Cross the water lily bridge made famous by this pioneer of impressionism and learn about a great artist’s life. Continue with the flora theme at the historic Arboretum d’Harcourt at Château d’Harcourt alongside your experienced tour guide. Later, visit one of the local orchards for a cup of fresh cider and see the sunset over Honfleur’s 17th-century harbor.  In the evening, drink some local wine and watch the sunset in downtown Honfleur.

If Normandy’s windswept beaches could talk, the story would take your breath away. Visit the spot where Allied troops landed on D-Day, 1944 and pay your respects to the fallen soldiers at the American Cemetery and Memorial at Colleville-sur-Mer. You will spend a night in the charming town of Arromanches-les-Bains, within walking distance of the beach. 

Cross the tidal causeway to the extraordinary Mont Saint-Michel, a tiny island town overlooked by a medieval abbey. This magical place is one of the most spectacular sights nationwide. You’ll be spellbound by the way the fairytale-like settlement rises so steeply out of the water in the distance. Next, it’s back on the private coach to visit Menhir de Champ-Dolen - a registered monument that is also the tallest stone in Brittany. 

Get a taste of how village life is in northern France in Dinan, where half-timbered houses line cobbled streets. We recommend exploring its beautiful medieval alleys, and taking a river cruise. Snap a selfie with the 13th-century ramparts before the sun goes down and it’s time for a traditional crêperie dinner. 

Next, you’ll head south to the Loire Valley. What was once a strategic stronghold for French kings is now the ultimate destination for indulgent food, wine, and landscapes. In the daytime, you’ll get to know the medieval city of Angers, home to a spectacular cathedral and a vibrant central district. After this, Chinon is next up - a delightful historic town in the heart of the Loire Valley, home to Chinon wine that is well worth sampling. During your two-night stay in Chinon, you will also visit the Château de Villandry - an impressive country house set among extensive, opulent gardens. 

During the day, your tour will involve a visit to one of the highlights of the entire northern France tour - the Château de Chenonceau. This truly unique castle is actually built above water! The River Cher runs below its majestic arches, a sight you’ll remember long after your trip is over. You’ll also have time to explore the luscious gardens. Finally, you’ll spend a night in the historic town of Maintenon.

On your way back to Paris, you’ll have one final stop - a visit to Chartres Cathedral, which is a fitting finale for our tour and the icing on the cake. This is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in France – and a beautiful final image to end your northern France tour with. Finally, your guide will drop you in Paris, ready for your return flight home.