Overview
Trip Map
Itinerary
Inclusions
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Must see sights
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Arrival
3 nights
Paris
France
Train: 2.5h
2 nights
Bayeux
France
Shuttle: 5h30m
2 nights
Rennes
France
Departure
Day 1
Arrive Paris
Day 1
Arrive Paris
To Be Determined
Upon arrival at one of Paris's Charles de Gaulle or Orly Airports, it's fairly easy to catch a taxi from outside the main terminal building to your hotel. This is cheaper than a pre-arranged private transfer, although that option is also available if you wish - just ask your consultant. Parisien taxi drivers are generally reliable and honest, but we will provide you with instructions on how to avoid possible scammers and charlatans. If you want to save money, and often quite a lot of time as well, we will also give you alternative instructions on taking public transport into the city center. Details are contained in the full itinerary and mobile app available to our travelers. If on the other hand, you are arriving at Paris's third airport, Beauvais Airport (BVA), then you should always take the shuttle bus. The taxi fare might cost more than the flight - it's nearly 50 miles (75km) outside the city.
Day 1
Arrive Paris
Day 1
Arrive Paris
To Be Determined:
Airport Taxi Pick-Up
Mid-Day/Afternoon:
Hôtel des Invalides
Late Afternoon:
Tuileries Gardens & Nearby Museums
Early Evening:
Arc de Triomphe
Day 2
Paris
Day 2
Paris
9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Embark on a captivating 4-hour walking tour of the center of Paris, the City of Lights, where history and modernity blend seamlessly along its enchanting streets. Starting from your accommodation, you will explore the heart of this dynamic city and learn how to navigate Paris as a local.
Day 2
Paris
Day 3
Paris
Day 3
Paris
Morning
Maybe the most recognized landmark in the world, the Eiffel Tower never fails to impress and inspire. Its elegance has always drawn crowds, and it demands a little logistical planning in order to expedite the security checks and avoid the crowds. We'll provide you with very detailed information on how to do this in the Full Itinerary, along with how to purchase tickets to speed up your visit. Let your consultant know if you wish to have your Eiffel Tower tickets purchased for you - they require a very specific time slot. We will also provide you with information on the other grand sights to visit nearby, including the famous Museum of Man across the river at Trocadero, and the Quai Branly Museum.
Ponder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...
Show MoreDiscovering the greatest of modern and contemporary French art in this dramatic structure
Show MoreDiscover a captivating collection of indigenous art in this literally verdant building.
Show MorePonder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...
Show MoreDiscovering the greatest of modern and contemporary French art in this dramatic structure
Show MoreDiscover a captivating collection of indigenous art in this literally verdant building.
Show MorePonder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...
Show MoreDay 3
Paris
Museum of Man
Highlight of Eiffel TowerPonder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...
Le Musée de l'Homme in Paris's Place du Trocadéro delves into human evolution and diversity through anthropology, ethnology, and prehistory. Showcasing artifacts from prehistoric tools to modern art, it highlights humans' biological and cultural development while exploring our identities, societies, and relationship with nature. Interactive and engaging, the museum offers a profound investigation into the essence of humanity, prompting reflection on our collective past and future.
Palais de Tokyo
Highlight of Eiffel TowerDiscovering the greatest of modern and contemporary French art in this dramatic structure
Que vous seriez un peu plus parisien(ne)... That you would be a bit more Parisian, visit the Palais de Tokyo in the 16th arrondissement, a beacon of contemporary art known for its avant-garde exhibitions and innovative art installations. Blending historical elegance with modern creativity, it offers visitors a privilaged exploration of the latest artistic expressions. Highlights include its own modernist architecture, a constantly evolving array of exhibitions showcasing everything from installations to live performances, and the Yoyo nightclub and Le Tokyo Eat for leisure and dining. Visit the Palais de Tokyo to step into an intersection of art, culture, and architecture, and let the cutting edge of contemporary art in Paris take you away.
Quai Branly Museum
Highlight of Eiffel TowerDiscover a captivating collection of indigenous art in this literally verdant building.
The Quai Branly Museum, oficially known as L'Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, is a vibrant celebration of indigenous art and cultures from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Located on the banks of the Seine near the Eiffel Tower, this innovative museum stands out with its striking modern architecture and a lush wall garden adorning its exterior. Inside, visitors are treated to a rich tapestry of artifacts, including traditional costumes, masks, sculptures, and jewelry, all showcased in a dynamic and immersive display. The museum's commitment to cultural diversity and its extensive collection offer a unique opportunity to explore the history, art, and traditions of non-Western civilizations.
Museum of Man
Highlight of Eiffel TowerPonder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...
Le Musée de l'Homme in Paris's Place du Trocadéro delves into human evolution and diversity through anthropology, ethnology, and prehistory. Showcasing artifacts from prehistoric tools to modern art, it highlights humans' biological and cultural development while exploring our identities, societies, and relationship with nature. Interactive and engaging, the museum offers a profound investigation into the essence of humanity, prompting reflection on our collective past and future.
Palais de Tokyo
Highlight of Eiffel TowerDiscovering the greatest of modern and contemporary French art in this dramatic structure
Que vous seriez un peu plus parisien(ne)... That you would be a bit more Parisian, visit the Palais de Tokyo in the 16th arrondissement, a beacon of contemporary art known for its avant-garde exhibitions and innovative art installations. Blending historical elegance with modern creativity, it offers visitors a privilaged exploration of the latest artistic expressions. Highlights include its own modernist architecture, a constantly evolving array of exhibitions showcasing everything from installations to live performances, and the Yoyo nightclub and Le Tokyo Eat for leisure and dining. Visit the Palais de Tokyo to step into an intersection of art, culture, and architecture, and let the cutting edge of contemporary art in Paris take you away.
Quai Branly Museum
Highlight of Eiffel TowerDiscover a captivating collection of indigenous art in this literally verdant building.
The Quai Branly Museum, oficially known as L'Musée du quai Branly - Jacques Chirac, is a vibrant celebration of indigenous art and cultures from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Located on the banks of the Seine near the Eiffel Tower, this innovative museum stands out with its striking modern architecture and a lush wall garden adorning its exterior. Inside, visitors are treated to a rich tapestry of artifacts, including traditional costumes, masks, sculptures, and jewelry, all showcased in a dynamic and immersive display. The museum's commitment to cultural diversity and its extensive collection offer a unique opportunity to explore the history, art, and traditions of non-Western civilizations.
Museum of Man
Highlight of Eiffel TowerPonder some of the Big Questions while visiting this museum...
Le Musée de l'Homme in Paris's Place du Trocadéro delves into human evolution and diversity through anthropology, ethnology, and prehistory. Showcasing artifacts from prehistoric tools to modern art, it highlights humans' biological and cultural development while exploring our identities, societies, and relationship with nature. Interactive and engaging, the museum offers a profound investigation into the essence of humanity, prompting reflection on our collective past and future.
Day 4
Paris to Bayeux
Day 4
Paris to Bayeux
Early Morning/Morning
It might be the greatest art museum in the world; it certainly is the largest with over 380,000 objects; to view every single one for even a minute apiece would take 75 days. And those descriptions still don't do the building and its collection justice. Marvel at treasures inside, including Leonardo Da Vinci's mysterious woman, the Mona Lisa, and everything from an Egyptian masterpiece of mummification to the famed Hellenistic sculpture, Venus de Milo, to patriotic French masterpieces like Delacroix’s Liberty Leading the People. Although the Louvre is vast and ever-crowded, with some strategy and a few helpful tips your visit will take in maximum artworks with minimal hassle.
Day 4
Paris to Bayeux
Day 5
Bayeux
Day 5
Bayeux
Early Morning to Afternoon
Normandy's beaches, cemeteries, and museums are hallowed ground for those versed in WWII history. For those from Britain, Canada, and other Commonwealth countries, the beaches codenamed Juno, Sword, and Gold hold special significance, as this is where Commonwealth forces landed. Normandy also has a number of Commonwealth military cemeteries, including the Ranville War Cemetery, and the Canadian Military Cemetery. For logistical reasons, and to give you the best experience, we strongly recommend a guided tour of these points of interest. Please speak to your consultant about arranging a guided tour. If you do wish to visit the sites independently, either by private car or public transport, please be warned it is very difficult to access many of the sites in a single day, and many sites may be inaccessible to you entirely.
Day 5
Bayeux
Day 6
Bayeux to Rennes
Day 6
Bayeux to Rennes
8:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Your own, personal, English-speaking driver will pick you up promptly at the designated time from your hotel. This is a pre-paid transfer, so you only need to sit back and enjoy the ride while your driver answers any questions you may have. While the drive takes about two hours, you have the opportunity for a three-hour self-guided stop at the breathtaking Mont-St.-Michel. One of the most evocative towns in France, this island / abbey / fortress repelled medieval England but has has captured thousands of hearts with its ambiance and views towards the sea. Should you prefer a different stop, we can also suggest other options, Fougères and its castle, or Granville.
Step foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Show MoreStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Show MoreStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Show MoreStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Show MoreStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Show MoreDay 6
Bayeux to Rennes
Mont-St.-Michel
Highlight of Shuttle to Rennes via Mt.-St.-MicheleStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Mont-St.-Michel
Highlight of Shuttle to Rennes via Mt.-St.-MicheleStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Mont-St.-Michel
Highlight of Shuttle to Rennes via Mt.-St.-MicheleStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Mont-St.-Michel
Highlight of Shuttle to Rennes via Mt.-St.-MicheleStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Mont-St.-Michel
Highlight of Shuttle to Rennes via Mt.-St.-MicheleStep foot upon Mont-Saint-Michel, a stunning village and UNESCO World Heritage Site that attracts visitors the world over for its dramatic setting on a rocky islet surrounded by powerful tides. The highlight, the Abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, stands as a testament to medieval architecture, and withstood both seiges of the Hundred Years' War. Adored by the French for centuries,Mont-St. Micheletrances visitors with its natural beauty, historical richesse , and architecture, its winding streets and panoramic views transporting you to another era.
Day 7
Rennes
Day 7
Rennes
Morning to Afternoon
Dinan guards its medieval heart of half-timbered homes and winding streets. An important crossing over the Rance River since time immemorial, written documents first mention the city in the 11th century, and its warriors even appear in the Bayeux Tapestry. Noteworthy sites include the Basilique St-Sauveur, the 14th-century Château de Dinan, and the artisan-lined Rue du Jerzual. The town's panoramic views and market in Place du Guesclin offer a taste of local life amid the well-preserved homes of a bygone era.
Day 7
Rennes
Day 8
Depart Rennes
Day 8
Depart Rennes
To Be Determined
Rennes taxis are generally reliable and honest, so taking a taxi is cheaper than a pre-arranged transfer. Your hotel will be happy to arrange a pick up for you. If you are picked up about 2 hours and 45 min before your departure time, you should arrive at the airport with just under two and a half hours to spare. If you are leaving during rush hour, you may want to budget an extra twenty minutes or so. The Full Itinerary also contains alternative instructions on taking the bus/train to the airport.
Day 8
Depart Rennes
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Accommodation:
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7 Days
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Switzerland’s second-most populous city, Geneva is a place where languages, cultures, and institutions have converged for hundreds of years. Here, diplomacy and sophistication play a central role. Formerly home to the headquarters of the UN, Geneva still hosts the International Red Cross, World Trade Organization, and World Health Organization. Lake Geneva, the largest body of water in Switzerland, dominates the surrounding landscape with its calm waters and brooding presence. By the lakeside, the imposing Jet d’Eau blasts water 140 meters into the air for most of every day. As you stroll through the city’s enchanting old town, you'll find its winding streets dusted with antique shops, ancient architecture, galleries, and world-class restaurants. Centuries of influence from countless cultures have given Geneva a special, complex identity. Travelers here can spend hours sampling food and drink from across the world. Or, simply sit by the water, and sip an Espresso while you soak up Geneva's unique and cosmopolitan vibe.
Read More
It feels as though everything in Brussels is tinted with gold. From the gilded rooftops of the old houses on the Grand Palace to the foil-wrapped bonbons piled in chocolatier windows, Brussels seems to sparkle and wink at you around every corner. Aside from the lustrous architecture and Trappist ales, this shiny city is probably still best known for its iconic street food options: salty, golden fries, and fluffy, honey-colored waffles. While a major political center, home of the EU and NATO, don’t be fooled by Brussels stern ‘Eurocratic’ facade. Brussels revels in cheeky humor and mischief. So much so, Brussel’s beloved mascot, the ‘Manneken Pis’, is a statue of a small child urinating into a fountain. The city takes great pleasure in dressing this statue in festive-themed costumes. It’s no surprise that the artist Magritte, one of the great visual tricksters of the 20th century, called Brussels home. After a few days exploring the city, and taking in its sights and scenes, you’re sure to come away smiling.
Read More
Aix en Provence is a warm city baked into the Provence-Alpes-Côte region of Southern France. Often referred to as simply ‘Aix’, this city is a starting point for traveling the Provencal region. Aix is set amongst a backdrop of rambling vineyards, quaint villages, and the imposing Sainte-Victoire mountain range. It’s no surprise that artists like Cézanne have devoted lifetimes to painting this landscape. Aromatic lavender fields in the north blossom once a year with a scent that defines the French countryside. Head south and you’ll find the rocky Mediterranean shore with dramatic Calanques cliffs and clear blue waters. With the sun out nearly all year round, locals live the epitome of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Wander through narrow medieval streets, shop at lively marketplaces, and enjoy a glass of rosé on a cafe terrace beneath the gentle Provencal sun. From old-world architecture and bubbling fountains to refined galleries and leafy parks, this leisurely city has everything you could ask of a French vacation.
Read More
The magic of Paris is undeniable. This is the most romantic destination in Europe, and surely the number one bucket list destination of all time. If you want to say you've traveled, you have to visit Paris at least once. Along with classic must-sees like the Eiffel Tower and the Sacre-Coeur, there is so much to see and do in Paris that it helps to narrow it down by interest. Fashion and shopping enthusiast? Look no further than the Galeries Lafayette, Avenue des Champs-Élysées, or the Marais. Art aficionado? Once you're done with the Louvre, make a start on the Musée d'Orsay. History buffs won't be able to walk a block without uncovering a monument to Napoleon or Louis XIV. If you visit Paris with a foodie, be warned — you'll gaze in a lot of patisserie windows, and sample your weight in croissants. Because Paris always has so much on offer, it never grows old. At dusk, as you stroll the wide boulevards past Haussmann apartment buildings and sharply dressed Parisians, or gaze down at the city from the hill at Montmarte, you might find yourself saying 'Paris Je t' aime'. This is, after all, the City of Love.
Read More
Bayeux is an old, well-preserved town in Normandy. Most known as the backdrop for the Battle of Normandy, visitors who descend from WWII veterans often feel a special, somber connection to this part of France. On June 6, 1944, otherwise known as ‘D-Day’, thousands of Allied troops landed on Normandy’s Atlantic Coast, with a mission to drive out the German occupying forces. More than 120,000 Allied soldiers died in combat over the next three months. Although victorious, the campaign for Normandy caused the highest number of losses for America in all of WWII. A landscape of remembrance, on a tour of the Norman countryside you’ll see the remains of tanks, aircraft, and military bunkers. Special cemeteries and memorials in the area pay tribute to the sacrifice of fallen soldiers. Despite the destruction of nearly every neighboring village, the town of Bayeux endured WWII unscathed. Along with all its medieval architecture, the town’s most precious treasure, the Bayeux Tapestry, was miraculously spared. Stitched in the 11th century, the Tapestry tells the story of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England in 1066. As you view the tapestry and stroll through the charming streets of Bayeux, the sweeping cathedral spires and gently flowing River Aure cast you back to another time. A landscape of war, but also remembrance, a trip to Bayeux and Normandy will deepen your appreciation and respect for the past.
Read More
Rennes is the capital of Brittany, the most northwest region in France. A sea and countryside getaway, Brittany is famous for its medieval towns, ancient rocky landscapes, and seaside villages. Dotted along the blue-green Atlantic coastline, towns like St. Malo, Dinard, and Cancale are long-time summer vacation spots for the French. Needless to say, you have to try the fresh seafood. Offshore, the island of Mont-Saint-Michel rests dreamily amongst the waves. One of the most beloved UNESCO heritage sites in France, this medieval abbey is connected to the mainland by a bridge over a causeway. Heading inland, there are centuries-old churches, stone cottages, and castles that belonged to Brittany’s medieval royalty, who were known for constantly feuding over successions. The river town of Dinan is surrounded by a fortress wall, a must-see for both its history and profound beauty. In Rennes, half-timbered houses and cobbled streets give way to some of the oldest marketplaces in France. Rennes itself is a tranquil, medium-sized city, easily explored in half a day. In the evening, the city’s gastronomic scene invites you to try local specialties - pancakes, such as savory stuffed galettes and thin, lemony crêpes, are the order of the day here.
Read More
Switzerland’s second-most populous city, Geneva is a place where languages, cultures, and institutions have converged for hundreds of years. Here, diplomacy and sophistication play a central role. Formerly home to the headquarters of the UN, Geneva still hosts the International Red Cross, World Trade Organization, and World Health Organization. Lake Geneva, the largest body of water in Switzerland, dominates the surrounding landscape with its calm waters and brooding presence. By the lakeside, the imposing Jet d’Eau blasts water 140 meters into the air for most of every day. As you stroll through the city’s enchanting old town, you'll find its winding streets dusted with antique shops, ancient architecture, galleries, and world-class restaurants. Centuries of influence from countless cultures have given Geneva a special, complex identity. Travelers here can spend hours sampling food and drink from across the world. Or, simply sit by the water, and sip an Espresso while you soak up Geneva's unique and cosmopolitan vibe.
Read More
It feels as though everything in Brussels is tinted with gold. From the gilded rooftops of the old houses on the Grand Palace to the foil-wrapped bonbons piled in chocolatier windows, Brussels seems to sparkle and wink at you around every corner. Aside from the lustrous architecture and Trappist ales, this shiny city is probably still best known for its iconic street food options: salty, golden fries, and fluffy, honey-colored waffles. While a major political center, home of the EU and NATO, don’t be fooled by Brussels stern ‘Eurocratic’ facade. Brussels revels in cheeky humor and mischief. So much so, Brussel’s beloved mascot, the ‘Manneken Pis’, is a statue of a small child urinating into a fountain. The city takes great pleasure in dressing this statue in festive-themed costumes. It’s no surprise that the artist Magritte, one of the great visual tricksters of the 20th century, called Brussels home. After a few days exploring the city, and taking in its sights and scenes, you’re sure to come away smiling.
Read More
Aix en Provence is a warm city baked into the Provence-Alpes-Côte region of Southern France. Often referred to as simply ‘Aix’, this city is a starting point for traveling the Provencal region. Aix is set amongst a backdrop of rambling vineyards, quaint villages, and the imposing Sainte-Victoire mountain range. It’s no surprise that artists like Cézanne have devoted lifetimes to painting this landscape. Aromatic lavender fields in the north blossom once a year with a scent that defines the French countryside. Head south and you’ll find the rocky Mediterranean shore with dramatic Calanques cliffs and clear blue waters. With the sun out nearly all year round, locals live the epitome of the Mediterranean lifestyle. Wander through narrow medieval streets, shop at lively marketplaces, and enjoy a glass of rosé on a cafe terrace beneath the gentle Provencal sun. From old-world architecture and bubbling fountains to refined galleries and leafy parks, this leisurely city has everything you could ask of a French vacation.
Read More
The magic of Paris is undeniable. This is the most romantic destination in Europe, and surely the number one bucket list destination of all time. If you want to say you've traveled, you have to visit Paris at least once. Along with classic must-sees like the Eiffel Tower and the Sacre-Coeur, there is so much to see and do in Paris that it helps to narrow it down by interest. Fashion and shopping enthusiast? Look no further than the Galeries Lafayette, Avenue des Champs-Élysées, or the Marais. Art aficionado? Once you're done with the Louvre, make a start on the Musée d'Orsay. History buffs won't be able to walk a block without uncovering a monument to Napoleon or Louis XIV. If you visit Paris with a foodie, be warned — you'll gaze in a lot of patisserie windows, and sample your weight in croissants. Because Paris always has so much on offer, it never grows old. At dusk, as you stroll the wide boulevards past Haussmann apartment buildings and sharply dressed Parisians, or gaze down at the city from the hill at Montmarte, you might find yourself saying 'Paris Je t' aime'. This is, after all, the City of Love.
Read More
Bayeux is an old, well-preserved town in Normandy. Most known as the backdrop for the Battle of Normandy, visitors who descend from WWII veterans often feel a special, somber connection to this part of France. On June 6, 1944, otherwise known as ‘D-Day’, thousands of Allied troops landed on Normandy’s Atlantic Coast, with a mission to drive out the German occupying forces. More than 120,000 Allied soldiers died in combat over the next three months. Although victorious, the campaign for Normandy caused the highest number of losses for America in all of WWII. A landscape of remembrance, on a tour of the Norman countryside you’ll see the remains of tanks, aircraft, and military bunkers. Special cemeteries and memorials in the area pay tribute to the sacrifice of fallen soldiers. Despite the destruction of nearly every neighboring village, the town of Bayeux endured WWII unscathed. Along with all its medieval architecture, the town’s most precious treasure, the Bayeux Tapestry, was miraculously spared. Stitched in the 11th century, the Tapestry tells the story of William the Conqueror’s invasion of England in 1066. As you view the tapestry and stroll through the charming streets of Bayeux, the sweeping cathedral spires and gently flowing River Aure cast you back to another time. A landscape of war, but also remembrance, a trip to Bayeux and Normandy will deepen your appreciation and respect for the past.
Read More
Rennes is the capital of Brittany, the most northwest region in France. A sea and countryside getaway, Brittany is famous for its medieval towns, ancient rocky landscapes, and seaside villages. Dotted along the blue-green Atlantic coastline, towns like St. Malo, Dinard, and Cancale are long-time summer vacation spots for the French. Needless to say, you have to try the fresh seafood. Offshore, the island of Mont-Saint-Michel rests dreamily amongst the waves. One of the most beloved UNESCO heritage sites in France, this medieval abbey is connected to the mainland by a bridge over a causeway. Heading inland, there are centuries-old churches, stone cottages, and castles that belonged to Brittany’s medieval royalty, who were known for constantly feuding over successions. The river town of Dinan is surrounded by a fortress wall, a must-see for both its history and profound beauty. In Rennes, half-timbered houses and cobbled streets give way to some of the oldest marketplaces in France. Rennes itself is a tranquil, medium-sized city, easily explored in half a day. In the evening, the city’s gastronomic scene invites you to try local specialties - pancakes, such as savory stuffed galettes and thin, lemony crêpes, are the order of the day here.
Read More
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