French Elegance, Paris & Bordeaux Discovery
FEATURES
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTEL
SIGHTSEEING
MEALS
FLIGHTS
Paris, the capital of France, is renowned for its art, fashion, and rich history. Situated on the River Seine, it boasts iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Palace of Versailles. Known as the City of Love and Lights, Paris is also a gastronomic hub, with exceptional cafes and restaurants. Its stunning architecture and vibrant culture make it one of the world's top tourist destinations. Nice, located on the French Riviera, is famous for its Mediterranean beaches, charming Old Town, and vibrant arts scene. The Promenade des Anglais offers scenic seaside views, while the Old Town features colorful streets, local markets, and cozy cafés. Nice also offers beautiful pebble beaches for sunbathing and swimming, along with Mediterranean dishes like Socca and Salade Niçoise.
OVERVIEW
A Paris and Bordeaux tour is a captivating journey through two of France's most iconic destinations. In Paris, experience the essence of romance amidst landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and charming streetside cafés. Delve into art, history, and Parisian elegance that epitomize the city's allure. Then, venture to Bordeaux, where rolling vineyards and world-renowned wineries await. Explore the UNESCO-listed city center, indulge in wine tastings at prestigious châteaux, and immerse yourself in the relaxed ambiance of this vibrant wine region. Combining the cosmopolitan charm of Paris with the tranquil beauty of Bordeaux's countryside, this tour offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, culinary delights, and the finest wines, promising an unforgettable French experience.
Itinerary
Prepare yourself! You are leaving today for Paris to start your Paris explorer tour.
Upon arrival in Paris, claim your bags and proceed towards the arrival hall. Our representative will meet you and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. (Standard check-in time is 3:00 pm)
If you have arrived early, you might like to take a stroll on the streets of Paris
Overnight in Paris
Morning enjoy your breakfast. You have the day to explore the city at your leisurely pace. Consider a Seine River cruise for a unique view of the city center. Drift along for a serene hour, taking in key landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Hôtel de Ville, and the renowned Louvre Palace and Museum. Relax and soak in the beauty from this different vantage point.
Alternatively, pre-book one of our suggested add-ons
Add-on: 24 hour hop-on-hop-off pass including admission to Eiffel Tower - USD 161 Per person
Feel the freedom to explore the diverse facets of Paris – its historical charm, romantic allure, fashion-forward districts, entertainment hubs, and shopper's paradises – all at your leisure! With three tour routes encompassing over 37 stops at major attractions, delve into the Paris of your dreams.
Hop on and off whenever you wish, navigating the city at your own tempo. Each passenger receives personal earphones providing recorded commentary in multiple languages like English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, Portuguese, Russian, Czech, Japanese, and Chinese! Plus, relish spectacular vistas from the open top deck – a truly distinctive and enjoyable experience offered by Open Tour.
Moreover, Open Tour extends a generous offering of complimentary walking tours in English from Opera to Notre Dame (check the Open Tour website for further details).
Here's a glimpse of the tour routes:
Blue Line: From Haussmann-Opera to Madeleine, passing through iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Champs-Elysees, Arc de Triomphe, and more.
White Line: Covers attractions from Notre-Dame to Pont Neuf - Quai des Orfèvres, encompassing sights like Luxembourg, Montparnasse, and St Germain-des-Prés.
Red Line: Travels from Auber to Grands Boulevards - Hard Rock Café, including stops at Montmartre, Gare du Nord, and Republique among others.
Yellow Line: Routes from Gare de Lyon to Bastille Opera with highlights like Bastille-rue Saint Antoine and Notre Dame-Quartier latin.
Please note: The Yellow Line is unavailable from 12:40 pm to 5 pm.
Make the most of your visit at the Eiffel Tower with our skip-the-line audio-guided tour. As you ascend, delve into the marvel of this historic monument–an architectural masterpiece. Initially erected as a temporary showcase for the 1889 World Fair by Gustave Eiffel, the Iron Lady now stands as the quintessential symbol of France globally, drawing nearly 7 million visitors annually.
Upon reaching the third floor, relish an exceptional panoramic view of Paris while delving into the Tower's captivating history. Discover tales not just of the Tower itself but also of renowned Parisian landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre, and the Sacré-Coeur.
On your descent, don't miss the 1st floor, where you can experience the exhilarating sensation of walking on the spectacular glass floor, suspended 57 meters above ground, offering a thrilling sense of stepping into thin air!
This flexible and extensive tour lets you curate your Parisian adventure, ensuring you experience the city's myriad attractions and neighborhoods at your own pace and in your preferred language.
Add-on: Skip the Line Louvre Museum Guided tour - USD 90 Per person
Nestled at the center of Paris, The Louvre, once a royal residence, has evolved into the planet's most expansive museums. Accompanied by your guide, you'll uncover the museum's iconic masterpieces: from Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa to the Venus de Milo and the Winged Victory of Samothrace. (Note: Hotel transfers are not provided.)
Add-on – Seine River Cruise with Dinner (Etoile service) – USD 130 Per person
Evening we have ensured a memorable night out in Paris with a gourmet dinner cruise along the Seine River. Float past the city’s famed monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Ile de la Cité aboard a luxury Bateaux Parisiens riverboat. Soak up the magic of Paris from an onboard dining room while enjoying a gourmet 3-course meal. Please note that Champagne and live music are also included on select 8:30 pm departures. Evening cruise along the Seine River Sip on a glass of Champagne when you board your boat (for 8:30 pm dinner cruises only) Enjoy a 3-course à la carte dinner with wine See iconic Paris attractions that line the Seine’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed riverbanks.
Upgrade to Decouverte Service : USD 30 per person
This option includes a 3-course dinner cruise, a welcome glass of champagne, and white or red wine (1 bottle for 4 people).
Upgrade to Privilege Service: USD 85 Per person
This option includes a 3-course dinner cruise, an aperitif of cheese puffs and a glass of champagne, white or red wine, a cheese board, a mini-sweet selection served with coffee, and window seating at tables for 2-4 people.
Upgrade to Premier Service: USD 125 Per person
This option includes a 3-course dinner cruise, an aperitif of Champagne and cheese puffs, white or red wine, a cheese board, a glass of champagne with dessert, and a mini-sweet selection with coffee. Seating is at a round table at the bows of the boat.
Overnight in Paris
Another day at leisure. After breakfast, explore the City at your own pace or pre-book one of our suggested add-ons
Add-on - Half-day Tour of Palace of Versailles - USD 115 Per person
An enthralling guided tour unveiling the storied past of this magnificent Palace. Blending classic and baroque architectural elements, this palace has graced the World Heritage list for three decades. Prepare to be transported into the grandeur and regal atmosphere of King Louis XIV's court, as you explore the illustrious Hall of Mirrors, opulent Grands Apartments, and the meticulously crafted French gardens envisioned by Le Nôtre. Every facet of Versailles exudes grace, precision, and unity, presenting an authentic masterpiece of the 17th century and a profound symbol of King Louis XIV's absolute authority. Throughout his reign, the King tirelessly expanded and enhanced both the palace and its surrounding gardens, leaving an enduring legacy of elegance and opulence. (Hotel pick-up and drop-off is not included)
Add-on - Cooking Class of Macarons including transfers - USD 245 Per person (minimum 4 pax)
Experience crafting macarons, among France's beloved treats, during this class in Paris, the epitome of French culinary excellence. With guidance from a skilled instructor, you'll master the art of creating these delicacies, receiving detailed instructions to perfect your piped macarons. Select your preferred shell colors, fill them with buttercream, and delve into the cultural significance of these treats while eagerly awaiting the taste of your freshly baked creations. Enhance your experience by opting for an advanced macaron-making class.
Add-on: Evening Moulin Rouge Cabaret Show with Champagne including transfers- USD 235 Per person (Minimum 4 pax)
Experience the renowned Moulin Rouge show "Féerie," crafted by Doris Haug and Ruggero Angeletti, and choreographed by Bill Goodson, at one of the world's illustrious cabarets. Witness a spectacle featuring a troupe of 100 artists, including 60 Doris Girls, adorned in a parade of 1,000 costumes embellished with feathers, rhinestones, and sequins designed by Corrado Collabucci. Gaetano Castelli's set designs create the backdrop, accompanied by Pierre Porte's music performed by 80 musicians and 60 choral singers. Indulge in the show with the inclusion of half a bottle of Champagne, delighting in an opulent feast for both the eyes and ears. Immerse yourself in a vibrant display of colors and performances, capturing the grandeur of this iconic cabaret. Service and gratuities are encompassed within the ticket price, ensuring a seamless and fulfilling experience.
Overnight in Paris
Following breakfast, complete your check-out and be escorted to the train station for your journey to Bordeaux. Upon arrival in Bordeaux, you'll receive a warm welcome and transfer to your designated hotel.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. You might opt for a leisurely walk along the picturesque Garonne River, immersing yourself in its serene atmosphere and relishing the breathtaking river vistas. Alternatively, dive into Bordeaux's culinary diversity, indulging in local specialties at authentic eateries or exploring food markets for gourmet delights. As evening approaches, consider a delightful dining experience, pairing exquisite dishes with Bordeaux's finest wines at a recommended restaurant.
Overnight in Bordeaux
You have the day to explore at your leisure. Wander through historic districts such as Saint-Pierre or Saint-Michel, taking in the architectural beauty and immersing yourself in the authentic local atmosphere. Delve into food markets like Marché des Capucins to discover exquisite gourmet delights and specialties unique to the region. Alternatively, relish the world-class wines of Bordeaux through tasting sessions or guided tours at vineyards located in the vicinity.
Add-on: Day trip to Cognac from Bordeaux including lunch and tasting - USD 200 Per person (minimum 8 travelers)
Begin the day with an early departure from Bordeaux towards the charming town of Cognac. Upon arrival in Cognac, discover the Royal Chateau of Cognac, witness to the History of France and Maison des Cognacs Baron Otard, it is classified as a Historic Monument. Gain insights into the elaborate journey from grape cultivation through distillation to the maturation process in oak barrels. Traverse historic cellars where Cognac ages gracefully, absorbing the myriad flavors and captivating aromas that define its exceptional character. Participate in a comprehensive tasting session led by seasoned sommeliers or expert cellar masters.
During our excursion, we'll visit the Royal Castle of Cognac, dating back to its construction around the year 950. This storied place, once the residence of numerous noble families, is presently owned by descendants of two citizens who acquired it in 1795. These enterprising merchants transformed it into their cellars and established the Otard company headquarters within its walls.
A delightful lunch awaits at a restaurant renowned for its authentic and delectable cuisine. The afternoon will be dedicated to a visit to Maison Hennessy, exemplifying one of the esteemed distilleries in Cognac. This could involve Camus, Martell, Rémy Martin, or Courvoisier, contingent upon visit availability. Each institution stands as a beacon of French excellence, elevating Cognac's global acclaim.
Your return journey to Bordeaux promises the same level of comfort and convenience as your outbound trip, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable conclusion to your Cognac exploration.
Overnight in Bordeaux
And it’s time to say goodbye! Today you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home. Thank you for spending the time with us.
Accommodation
Novotel Paris Centre Tour Eiffel
Novotel Tour Eiffel is a hotel located in the 15th arrondissement of Paris, France. As the name suggests, it is situated near the Eiffel Tower, which is just a short walk away. The hotel features 764 rooms, including 11 suites, and offers a range of amenities to its guests, such as a fitness center, an indoor swimming pool, a sauna, and a restaurant.
The hotel is part of the AccorHotels group, which is one of the world's largest hotel chains. Novotel is one of the group's mid-range brands, offering affordable yet comfortable accommodations for travelers. Novotel Tour Eiffel is particularly popular among families and business travelers, as it provides easy access to many of the city's major attractions and has a range of meeting rooms and event spaces available for conferences and other events.
Novotel Bordeaux Centre
Conveniently situated in Bordeaux, the Novotel Bordeaux Centre is ideally positioned, only a 15-minute stroll away from Rue Sainte-Catherine and Place de la Victoire. This refined hotel stands at a distance of 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers) from St. Michael Basilica and 1.4 miles (2.2 kilometers) from Place des Quinconces.
Experience various recreational offerings such as a fitness center or take in scenic views from the terrace. The hotel also offers additional amenities, including complimentary high-speed wireless internet access, attentive concierge services, and an arcade/game room.
Savor delightful French cuisine at Les Décantés, a restaurant featuring a charming bar/lounge, or opt for the convenience of in-room dining with the available room service (offered during limited hours). Begin your day with buffet breakfast options available daily for a nominal fee.
Highlighted amenities encompass dry cleaning/laundry services, a 24-hour front desk for seamless assistance, and a multilingual staff for diverse guest needs. For those planning events, the hotel provides 1076 square feet (100 square meters) of versatile space, comprising conference facilities and 2 meeting rooms.
Relax in one of the 142 well-appointed guestrooms showcasing flat-screen televisions. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi access and enjoy a range of entertainment through satellite programming. Ensuite bathrooms include shower/tub combinations, complimentary toiletries, and hair dryers for added convenience. Additionally, each room is equipped with a telephone, a safe, and a functional workspace with a desk.
TOUR PRICE INCLUSIONS
- Round trip airfare in economy class ex-Houston (IAH) Airport
- Airport taxes and fuel surcharge
- 05 nights’ accommodation at above specified hotels in standard Rooms
- Daily breakfast
- Train tickets from Paris to Bordeaux in standard class
- Return Airport Group transfers.
- Train station transfers in Paris and Bordeaux
- Applicable taxes
TOUR PRICE EXCLUSIONS
- All other meals & other sightseeing or Services
- Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, drivers
- Porterage and baggage fees on the airline
- Visa Fee & Travel Insurance
- Any other services or Items not mentioned above as included
- Local city taxes EUR 4-7to be paid directly at hotels upon check out
Gallery
PLANNING A TRIP TO FRANCE ?
Language: French is the official language of France, so it's a good idea to learn some basic French phrases before you go. English is widely spoken in major tourist areas, but it's always appreciated to try speaking some French.
Currency: The official currency in France is the Euro. You can exchange currency at banks and exchange offices, or withdraw cash from ATMs. Most credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for small purchases.
Visa: If you are a US or Canadian citizen traveling to France for tourism or business purposes, you do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This is part of the Schengen Agreement, which allows for visa-free travel between 26 European countries, including France.
However, you will need to have a valid passport that is valid for at least three months beyond your planned stay in France. You may also be asked to provide proof of onward travel and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.
If you are planning to stay in France for longer than 90 days, or if you plan to work or study in France, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa before your trip.
It's always a good idea to check with the French Embassy or Consulate in your country for the most up-to-date visa requirements and application procedures.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory in France, but it's customary to leave a small amount (around 10%) at restaurants, cafes, and bars if the service was good.
Etiquette: French culture places a high value on politeness and courtesy. It's important to greet people with "Bonjour" (Good morning) or "Bonsoir" (Good evening), and to say "Merci" (Thank you) and "Au revoir" (Goodbye) when leaving. Also, avoid talking loudly in public places.
Safety: France is generally a safe country, but like any other tourist destination, you should be cautious of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. It's also a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Weather: France has a temperate climate, which means that the weather is generally mild and comfortable throughout most of the year. However, the climate can vary depending on the region and the time of year.
In general, summers (June to August) are warm and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the cities.
Autumn (September to November) is mild and pleasant, with occasional rain. Temperatures start to drop towards the end of the season, and the leaves change color, making it a beautiful time to visit the countryside.
Winter (December to February) can be chilly, especially in the north, with average temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). However, it can also be a magical time to visit with the festive holiday season in full swing, and some regions offering skiing and winter sports.
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit France, with milder temperatures and beautiful blooming flowers. However, it can also be rainy during this time.
Food and Water: France is known for its delicious cuisine and wide variety of food options. French cuisine is diverse and often involves fresh, high-quality ingredients, such as meats, seafood, vegetables, and cheeses. Some popular French dishes include croissants, escargots (snails), coq au vin (chicken cooked in red wine), and quiche Lorraine.
When it comes to drinking water, tap water in France is generally safe to drink. However, some people may prefer to drink bottled water for taste or personal preference. Bottled water is widely available in France and can be found at grocery stores, convenience stores, and restaurants.
Time Zone: France is located in Central European Time (CET) or UTC+1, which is one hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+1). However, during daylight saving time, which starts on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October, France observes Central European Summer Time (CEST) or UTC+2, which is two hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. So, it's important to adjust your clock accordingly if you're traveling to France during the daylight saving time period.
Electricity: In France, the standard voltage is 230 volts and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets used in France are type E sockets, which have two round pins and a hole for the socket's grounding pin.
If you're traveling from a country with a different voltage or socket type, you may need to bring a voltage converter or plug adapter to use your electronic devices. Many modern electronics, such as laptops and smartphones, have built-in voltage converters and can be used in France with just a plug adapter. However, it's always a good idea to check the specifications of your devices before traveling.
Transportation: France has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses, metros, and trains. Taxis are also widely available but can be expensive. It's also a great idea to walk or bike around the cities, as many attractions are within walking distance.
Payment Policy
Deposit: US$ 300 per person [Non-refundable / Non-transferrable]
Deposit date: 30th Jan, 2024
Second Non-refundable Deposit & date: US$1150, by 18th Aug 2024
Full Balance: 12th October, 2024
(Once the deposit is paid, the travelers can then pay any amount on any date. Travelers to ensure that the payment deadlines are met as above)
Insurance
We encourage everyone who books a VOYAGES HUB TOURS package, regardless of age or tour choice, to obtain a travel protection plan. While you intend to take that once-in-a-lifetime trip, illness, family emergencies, and other factors can derail your best-laid plans.
VOYAGES HUB TOURS has teamed up with Travel Guard to provide a Travel Protection Plan specifically designed for U.S. residents. Feel free to email us to receive a quote, without any obligation to commit.
Cancellation Policy
- From the date of booking to 18th Aug, 2024: $300 per person Non-Refundable / Non-transferrable Deposit + interruption insurance cost (if purchased)
- From 19th Aug to 12th Oct 2024: $1450 per person Non-refundable / Non-transferrable Deposit will be applicable as cancellation
- If Canceled on or after 13th Oct 2024: 100% of the tour price will be applicable as cancellation.
Note: A person becoming single as a result of the roommate’s cancellation must pay the single supplement
All payment cut-off dates are firm, and missing deadlines without approved extensions will result in cancellations without refunds being offered.
PLEASE NOTE
Voyages Hub reserves the right to levy a surcharge commensurate to the fuel increase at the time of operation of this movement.
REVIEW
We recently took a tour of Paris with Voyages Hub and it was an incredible experience. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the city's history and culture, and we learned so much about Paris in just a few hours. The tour was well-organized and efficient, and we were able to see all of the major landmarks without feeling rushed. Highly recommend
Our Paris tour with Voyages Hub was one of the highlights of our trip. Our guide was friendly and engaging, and had a great sense of humor. He made the tour fun and interactive, and we felt like we were seeing the city through the eyes of a local. The tour was also a great value for the price, and we felt like we got more than our money's worth
If you're looking for a comprehensive tour of Paris, look no further than Voyages Hub. We took their tour recently and were blown away by the amount of information we received about the city's history, culture, and architecture. Our guide was passionate and knowledgeable, and made the tour both educational and entertaining. Would definitely recommend
Voyages Hub's Paris tour was one of the best tours we've ever taken. Our guide was fantastic, and was able to answer all of our questions about the city. The tour was also well-paced, and we had plenty of time to take photos and explore each landmark. Highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Paris
We had an amazing experience on our Paris tour with Voyages Hub. The tour was well-organized and efficient, and our guide was friendly and knowledgeable. We learned so much about the city's history and culture, and were able to see all of the major landmarks without feeling rushed. Would definitely book with Voyages Hub again in the future