Trans-Euro Tour: Spain to France
TES104: 10 Days Madrid - Barcelona - Nimes - Paris
Tour Type: Private guided tour, flexible and customizable
Vehicle & Guide: Convenient public transport, English-speaking guide
Hotel: 4-star well selected hotels, open to your own choice
Meals: All breakfasts at hotels and 1 lunch at a cooking class
Highlights:
Vehicle & Guide: Convenient public transport, English-speaking guide
Hotel: 4-star well selected hotels, open to your own choice
Meals: All breakfasts at hotels and 1 lunch at a cooking class
Highlights:
- Visit Madrid’s Royal Palace, see paintings in Prado Museum and taste tapas.
- Explore City of Three Cultures, Toledo, and glimpse Roman Aqueduct in Segovia.
- Take in Gaudi’s talented architecture: Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Mila…
- Stroll around the most Roman city in Southern France, Nimes.
- Enjoy a night cruise on the Seine River to feel Paris’s charm.
This trip can be customized to meet your individual needs!
Free InquiryGet our reply within 24 hours!
- Itinerary
- Reviews
Expand All
Collapse All
Day 1 Welcome to Madrid, Spain!
Museo Del Jamon in Madrid
► How to Get to the Hotel:
Take Bus Line 23 from the airport to Cibeles Station. Then walk south about 800 meters to the hotel. It takes about 50 minutes. If you have a lot of luggage, then taking a taxi or using Uber, Bolt, FREE NOW and Cabify is recommended, costing about 20-30 euros and ride apps would be much cheaper. It generally takes around 30 minutes.
► Activities Recommendation:
1. Puerta Sol: After check-in, roam around the central city square Puerta Sol, which features Madrid’s iconic statue of the Bear and the Strawberry Tree. The bustling square is ringed with restaurants and stores. Take care of your belongings in case of pickpockets.
2. Gran Via: Take a stroll along the city’s most prosperous street Gran Via. On the 9th floor of EI Corte lngles, the famous department store, you can enjoy an awesome panoramic view at its roof bar.
3. Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía: This is the top place to take in Spain’s modern art, including the masterpieces of Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dalí. The famous anti-war painting Guernica can be seen in Room 205. Photos are allowed in the museum, and it is free to enter after 19:00.
► Dining Recommendation: Museo Del Jamon
It is located near the bustling Puerta Sol, and although it sounds like a museum, it is actually a great restaurant specializing in different kinds of hams. Despite tasting various ham from all over Spain, tapas and tasty paella are also available. A piece of jamón ibérica only costs about 9.9€, surely a delicious and affordable choice.
Accommodation: Mercure Madrid Centro (4 stars) or similar
Puerta Sol Square
Museo Del Jamon
Day 2 Madrid Highlights: Royal Palace, Mercado de San Miguel, Prado Museum, El Retiro
Semana Santa (Holy Week) Procession
Enjoy Tapas at Mercado de San Miguel!
Your next stop is Mercado de San Miguel. The most popular covered food market provides a large range of dishes from Spanish churros, fresh seafood, paella, tapas, fresh oysters, sashimi, to desserts. Tapas play an important role in Spanish culinary culture, referring to the snacks eaten as a starter before the meal. Today, various tapas could even comprise a complete meal, full of creativity and randomness, from various cheeses, olives to fried squid and fried potatoes. Different regions have tapas with their own features. Mercado de San Miguel is just the place to gather all kinds of specialties and just discover your delights here.
After lunch, we will then pass by Plaza Mayor, a major town square in the city heart. The next destination is Prado Museum. The famous Spanish national art museum houses over 100 exhibition rooms and collects the most complete artworks of Spain. The most famous paintings include Velázquez’s Las Meninas and Goya’s Black Paintings. Later, you will be guided to Madrid’s another UNESCO World Heritage Site, El Retiro Park, a green oasis featuring classic gardens, a tranquil artificial lake, and a beautiful Glass Palace. Walking out of the park, you can see the Neo-classical Alcalá Gate, one of the city’s landmarks, built in 1778. At last, we will make the way to Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, which has witnessed the dreams and aspirations of so many football stars and fans.
Catedral de la Almudena, Madrid
Plaza Mayor, Madrid
In Spain, there is an art that you cannot resist, that is the passionate, powerful and fiery Flamenco! You've never been to Spain without seeing a flamenco show! When night falls, enthusiastic Spaniards gather together to enjoy a Flamenco that tells moving stories covered the themes of love, grief, loss, and hope. The smooth dance moves flow with songs and melodious guitar playing and dancers’ passion is expressed incisively and vividly. Watching a flamenco show in Madrid generally costs from 30 euros and reserve your seat ahead of time.
► Special Experience in March and April - Spain’s Holy Week
If you happen to visit Spain in late March and first April, you may have a chance to witness the grand celebration of the Spain’s Holy Week, Semana Santa. It is the most important religious event in the country, which is held to celebrate the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus, leading up to Easter Sunday. Celebrated in almost all over Spain but it varies widely from place to place. Generally, central and northern areas feature more traditional and formal religious ceremonies, with a more solemn atmosphere. In the south Spain, the activities and celebrations are more relaxed. Worshippers often shout praises along the way and throw petals into the procession to show respect. During the grand procession, participants will generally wear colorful knee-length robes and hoods with conical tips. Robe colors have different meanings: black symbolizes death, purple means confession, red represents blood, and green symbolizes hope.
► Notes:
1. During the Semana Santa, the opening times of malls and restaurants may change accordingly.
2. It often rains in Semana Santa with a little cold weather. Make sure to prepare coats to keep warm.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Mercure Madrid Centro (4 stars) or similar
El Retiro Park
Spain’s Holy Week, Semana Santa
Day 3 Madrid Side Trip to Segovia and Toledo: Alcazars, Cathedrals, and Roman Aqueduct
This day you will depart to two UNESCO World Heritage-listed old cities, which are both not far from Madrid. After breakfast, we will first head to Toledo, the well-known city of three cultures: Christians, Muslims and Jews. Once served as the old capital city of Spain, it preserves Spain’s most alluring monuments since the 16th century, well worth the exploration of history buffs. We will spend the whole morning to dive deep into the old imperial city. Following the tour guide, you will first pass by Mirador del Valle, the vantage point to capture the ultimate photo of Toledo, and then Plaza De Zocodover, the old town’s star city square. Then you will drop by the Jewish Quarter of Toledo and Catedral Primada, which is one of the most impressive Gothic church examples in Spain. Afterward, you will be guided to Alcazar de Toledo, a stone fortress standing high in Toledo and today it is used as an Army Museum. Monasterio de San Juan de los Reyes would be your next stop. The Franciscan monastery was built in the 15th century in memory of the victory at the Battle of Toro, featuring a two-level cloister. Next, we will head to San Martin Bridge, which spans over the Tagus River with five arches. At last, you will have a chance to enjoy the exquisite craftsmanship of damasquinados and swords making in a workshop, Damasquinados Suarez.Finish the visit, and we will head to Segovia. The guide will lead you to see the well-preserved 166-arch Roman Aqueduct built in 50 BC. And you will be amazed at its grandeur and super length of over 15 km. Then continue the visit to Cathedral of Segovia, built at the city’s highest point and dominates the beautiful city skyline. After that, walk past the town square Plaza Mayor and move on to the Alcázar of Segovia to witness the castle palace, one of the most beautiful palaces in Spain, which is said to have inspired Cinderella’s castle in Disney movies. Finish the last stop of today’s itinerary, and you will be sent back to Madrid.
► Things to Know: A Legend of Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct
A girl in Segovia couldn’t stand transporting water back and forth through the city streets day and night, so she made a bet with a devil: if an aqueduct could be built to deliver water, the devil can get the girl’s soul or he would lose his own soul. However, the construction of the aqueduct had to be finished before dawn. The devil was struggling the whole night to piece stones together but when the first rays of sunlight appeared, he still lacked a stone. At last, he lost his soul. When sightseeing, you may find the interesting devil statue that holds the last stone of the aqueduct in the hand.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Mercure Madrid Centro (4 stars) or similar
Swords in Damasquinados Suarez
Catedral Primada de Toledo
► Things to Know: A Legend of Segovia’s Roman Aqueduct
A girl in Segovia couldn’t stand transporting water back and forth through the city streets day and night, so she made a bet with a devil: if an aqueduct could be built to deliver water, the devil can get the girl’s soul or he would lose his own soul. However, the construction of the aqueduct had to be finished before dawn. The devil was struggling the whole night to piece stones together but when the first rays of sunlight appeared, he still lacked a stone. At last, he lost his soul. When sightseeing, you may find the interesting devil statue that holds the last stone of the aqueduct in the hand.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Mercure Madrid Centro (4 stars) or similar
Segovia Roman Aqueduct
Alcázar of Segovia
Day 4 Madrid to Barcelona by Train
This morning, you will take a train from Madrid-Atocha Railway Station to Barcelona Sants Station. The train ticket is booked ready for you and you need to get to the station by yourself. From your hotel, it is only 1 km, easy to reach by taxi or Bus Line C03/ 27/ 34 from Museo Del Prado - Jardín Botánico Station. The Madrid - Barcelona train journey generally takes about 2.5-3 hours and you can enjoy scenic views along the way. Upon arrival, take Metro Line L5 from Sants Estació to Diagonal, and walk southwest about 600 meters to your hotel in Barcelona. The rest of the day is free for your own exploration.
► Activities Recommended:
1. Visit Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
This is the largest museum in Barcelona, which used to be built for the International Exposition of 1929. Later it was transformed into a museum collecting over 250,000 exhibits and displaying about 5,000 treasures, where you can have an insight into Catalonia’s artistic endeavors from the 10th century to the Modern eras. In addition to appreciating artistic masterpieces, the museum located high in the mountain of Montjuïc also offers a perfect viewpoint to overlook the whole city.
2. Have Fun in the Coastal Town of Sitges
If you love beaches, just take a train (R2 / R2s) from Barcelona-Sants Railway Station to the beautiful seaside town of Sitges, about 35 kilometers southwest of Barcelona. It takes about 40 minutes and costs 9 euros for a round trip. It is highly recommended to choose a seat on the left so that you can fully take in the scenic sea views along the way. After arrival, walk about 10 minutes to reach its fine beaches.
► Barcelona Restaurant Recommendation: Can Culleretes
Founded in 1786, Can Culleretes boasts the oldest restaurant in Barcelona’s old town area. With a long history and deep culture, it is one of the most popular restaurants serving local delicacies, attracting a lot of celebrities including the mayor of Barcelona, some famous artists, and writers. At an average cost of 20-30 euros, you can taste most authentic dishes like Oven's Baked Rice (Arròs al Forn), Catalonian Dish (Coca de Recapte), Catalonian Seafood Stew (Suquet de peix), and Spanish almond cake (Tarta de Santiago).
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rosello, Barcelona (4 stars) or similar
► Activities Recommended:
1. Visit Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
This is the largest museum in Barcelona, which used to be built for the International Exposition of 1929. Later it was transformed into a museum collecting over 250,000 exhibits and displaying about 5,000 treasures, where you can have an insight into Catalonia’s artistic endeavors from the 10th century to the Modern eras. In addition to appreciating artistic masterpieces, the museum located high in the mountain of Montjuïc also offers a perfect viewpoint to overlook the whole city.
2. Have Fun in the Coastal Town of Sitges
If you love beaches, just take a train (R2 / R2s) from Barcelona-Sants Railway Station to the beautiful seaside town of Sitges, about 35 kilometers southwest of Barcelona. It takes about 40 minutes and costs 9 euros for a round trip. It is highly recommended to choose a seat on the left so that you can fully take in the scenic sea views along the way. After arrival, walk about 10 minutes to reach its fine beaches.
► Barcelona Restaurant Recommendation: Can Culleretes
Founded in 1786, Can Culleretes boasts the oldest restaurant in Barcelona’s old town area. With a long history and deep culture, it is one of the most popular restaurants serving local delicacies, attracting a lot of celebrities including the mayor of Barcelona, some famous artists, and writers. At an average cost of 20-30 euros, you can taste most authentic dishes like Oven's Baked Rice (Arròs al Forn), Catalonian Dish (Coca de Recapte), Catalonian Seafood Stew (Suquet de peix), and Spanish almond cake (Tarta de Santiago).
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rosello, Barcelona (4 stars) or similar
Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya
Beautiful Beaches near Barcelona
Day 5 Barcelona: Park Güell, Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, Casa Mila, Barcelona Cathedral, Sunset Cruise
This day is arranged for a full exploration of Barcelona city highlights. Your private guide will first accompany you to view Gaudi’s famous architecture, and Park Güell will be the first stop. As one of the most popular green spaces in Barcelona, the park located on a steep hill features an interesting design with mosaic tiling in vibrant colors. Then we will head to Sagrada Familia to see the world’s most famous unfinished church, whose construction has lasted for over 140 years. Standing in front of the city’s most iconic architecture, you will not only get stunned at its imposing architecture and exquisite statues and frescos but also have an insight into its deep religious significance.
► Learn About the Secret of Sagrada Familia’s Windows
Boasting more than exquisite craftsmanship, Sagrada Familia’s glass windows are rich in symbolic significance. You may discover the transition of window colors from warm to cool tones, which represents the process of Jesus from birth to suffering. What’s more, the Nativity Facade has blue and green windows, symbolizing renewal and hope while the Passion Façade’s windows feature mostly red and orange, suggesting the death of Jesus.
► Sagrada Familia: Is It Worth Climbing the Tower?
If you have no fear of heights and are physically able, consider ascending to the top of the Sagrada Familia via elevator. However, please be aware that the descent requires a challenging 400-step climb down a super narrow staircase. If you decide to make the ascent, buy a ticket on the spot (10 euros), which allows you to choose between the two towers of the Nativity Facade or Passion Façade. From either, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective of the basilica itself and breathtaking views of the whole city if weather permits.
Finish the visit, you will then be guided to Casa Batlló and Casa Mila, to take in Gaudi’s other two masterpieces. The former one features eye-catching colorful tiles and quirky bone-like balconies while the latter one has sinuous limestone curves and mosaic-clad chimneys. Afterward, you will come to Barcelona’s most well-known food market Mercat de la Boqueria, offering a large variety of Spanish delicacies including ham, sausage, fruits, bread, and fresh seafood…as well as tapas like Fried Calamari and Galician Style Octopus. Next, you will be accompanied to stroll around the Gothic Quarter to view Barcelona Cathedral and Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar, enjoying gorgeous Gothic-style buildings and feeling the historic vibe.
★ Special Arrangement: Enjoy a 2-hour Sunset Cruise
Late in the afternoon, you will board a ship at Marina Port Vell, from where your 2-hour sunset cruise starts. Enjoying Barcelona from the sea is an amazing thing, especially when the sky turns orange. Hold a drink in hand, feel the sea breeze, and watch the sun slowly go down. Just enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime sunset experience. When it ends, you need to go back to the hotel on your own, by Bus Line 59 or V15.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rosello, Barcelona (4 stars) or similar
► Learn About the Secret of Sagrada Familia’s Windows
Boasting more than exquisite craftsmanship, Sagrada Familia’s glass windows are rich in symbolic significance. You may discover the transition of window colors from warm to cool tones, which represents the process of Jesus from birth to suffering. What’s more, the Nativity Facade has blue and green windows, symbolizing renewal and hope while the Passion Façade’s windows feature mostly red and orange, suggesting the death of Jesus.
► Sagrada Familia: Is It Worth Climbing the Tower?
If you have no fear of heights and are physically able, consider ascending to the top of the Sagrada Familia via elevator. However, please be aware that the descent requires a challenging 400-step climb down a super narrow staircase. If you decide to make the ascent, buy a ticket on the spot (10 euros), which allows you to choose between the two towers of the Nativity Facade or Passion Façade. From either, you’ll enjoy a unique perspective of the basilica itself and breathtaking views of the whole city if weather permits.
Finish the visit, you will then be guided to Casa Batlló and Casa Mila, to take in Gaudi’s other two masterpieces. The former one features eye-catching colorful tiles and quirky bone-like balconies while the latter one has sinuous limestone curves and mosaic-clad chimneys. Afterward, you will come to Barcelona’s most well-known food market Mercat de la Boqueria, offering a large variety of Spanish delicacies including ham, sausage, fruits, bread, and fresh seafood…as well as tapas like Fried Calamari and Galician Style Octopus. Next, you will be accompanied to stroll around the Gothic Quarter to view Barcelona Cathedral and Basílica de Santa Maria del Mar, enjoying gorgeous Gothic-style buildings and feeling the historic vibe.
★ Special Arrangement: Enjoy a 2-hour Sunset Cruise
Late in the afternoon, you will board a ship at Marina Port Vell, from where your 2-hour sunset cruise starts. Enjoying Barcelona from the sea is an amazing thing, especially when the sky turns orange. Hold a drink in hand, feel the sea breeze, and watch the sun slowly go down. Just enjoy your once-in-a-lifetime sunset experience. When it ends, you need to go back to the hotel on your own, by Bus Line 59 or V15.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel Evenia Rosello, Barcelona (4 stars) or similar
Sagrada Familia
Park Güell
Day 6 Cooking Class in Barcelona, Take a Train to Nimes of France
★ Special Arrangement: Enjoy a Hands-on Spanish Cooking Experience!
This morning you will have a good chance to learn to cook traditional Spanish dishes following a professional local chef. All the vegetables, meats, and ingredients are well prepared and you can learn to cook 4 dishes step by step, containing 2 tapas, one paella, and a dessert. Your cooking class will start at 11:00 and it takes about 3 hours to finish and enjoy your own-cooked lunch with a cup of wine.
Transfer to Nimes by Train (4 hours, tickets included)
In the afternoon, you will leave Spain for France. Go to Barcelona Sants Railway Station on your own to board the train to Nimes. From the hotel, you can walk northeast about 600 meters to Diagonal to take Metro Line L5 to Sants Estació. After arrival in Nimes, your hotel is only about 350 meters away from the station and you can easily access on foot. Check in and be ready for your romantic France tour.
► Travel Tips:
1. Most French shops don’t accept Euro notes of over 100. So when exchanging money, just prepare some small notes. What’s more, ticket machines in subway stations only accept notes of denominations below 50.
2. Tipping is not required in French restaurants as the service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is also possible to show your appreciation with a small tip, often about 10-20% of the total bill.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Appart'City Collection Nîmes Arènes (4 stars) or similar
This morning you will have a good chance to learn to cook traditional Spanish dishes following a professional local chef. All the vegetables, meats, and ingredients are well prepared and you can learn to cook 4 dishes step by step, containing 2 tapas, one paella, and a dessert. Your cooking class will start at 11:00 and it takes about 3 hours to finish and enjoy your own-cooked lunch with a cup of wine.
Transfer to Nimes by Train (4 hours, tickets included)
In the afternoon, you will leave Spain for France. Go to Barcelona Sants Railway Station on your own to board the train to Nimes. From the hotel, you can walk northeast about 600 meters to Diagonal to take Metro Line L5 to Sants Estació. After arrival in Nimes, your hotel is only about 350 meters away from the station and you can easily access on foot. Check in and be ready for your romantic France tour.
► Travel Tips:
1. Most French shops don’t accept Euro notes of over 100. So when exchanging money, just prepare some small notes. What’s more, ticket machines in subway stations only accept notes of denominations below 50.
2. Tipping is not required in French restaurants as the service charge is usually included in the bill. However, it is also possible to show your appreciation with a small tip, often about 10-20% of the total bill.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Appart'City Collection Nîmes Arènes (4 stars) or similar
Spanish Dishes Cooking Class
Mercat de la Boqueria
Day 7 Nimes Walking Tour, Transfer to Paris by Train
After breakfast, you will be accompanied on a walking tour to take in the full charm of the Nimes Old Town. Nimes is a city that was born with water. "Nimes" means "Nemausus" in French, representing the god of the sacred spring. Because of the ancient Roman conquest, Nimes is also known as "the Rome of France", leaving many ancient Roman ruins. The first stop is Arenes de Nimes, the most impressive structure in the city, built in 70 CE, highly similar to the Colosseum of Rome. The Roman amphitheater was later used as a bullring since 1863. Then we will head to La Maison Carree, the famed UNESCO World Heritage-listed site. The Corinthian-style square temple is known as the most well-preserved temple from the ancient Roman Era. Afterward, you will be guided to Les Jardins de la Fontaine to enjoy a leisurely stroll with a relaxed atmosphere. It is one of the first classic gardens in Europe, decorated with beautiful statues and gorgeous fountains. Temple de Diane in the park is another unmissed sight, also the city’s most enigmatic monument. It is said to be a worship site or a historical library and you can walk through the ruins to feel it. Today’s final stop is the Tour Magne, aka the Great Tower, built above the park and located at the highest point of the city. Climbing to the top, you can enjoy an amazing panoramic view of Nimes. Finish the visit and the rest of the day is free for your own exploration. At noon, it is recommended to sample some tasty dishes at the local bustling food market, Les Halles de Nimes, which offers from fresh fruits, vegetables to pastries, breads, cheese, and hams.
► Recommendation for Free Time in Nimes: Explore the Pont du Gard
After lunch, you can pay a visit to the famous Pont du Gard on your own, which can always be seen on the 5-euro note. The old bridge spanning over the Gard River was built in the first century, stretching over 275 meters (902 ft.) and with a height of 49 meters (161 ft.). There are a total of 3 layers with 52 arches of various sizes. The ancient Roman aqueduct helped to deliver water to Nimes for over 50 km (31 mi). Today you can learn about its detailed displays involving its construction and witness the old artefacts in the nearby museum. Beyond appreciating the engineering wonder, here also features clear water, where you can swim and rent a boat to have fun.
► How to Get to Pont du Gard: Take Bus Line 121 from Nîmes -gare routière to Rond point pont du gard, which takes about 50 minutes and costs 2€.
Transfer from Nimes to Paris by Train (3 hours, tickets included)
In the late afternoon, from your hotel, walk southeast about 350 meters to Nîmes Centre Station to ride the train to Paris. Upon arrival at the Paris Gare de Lyon, take RER Line A from Gare de Lyon to Charles de Gaulle - Étoile. Get off and you can see the iconic Arc de Triomphe. Continue to walk north about 450 meters to reach the hotel for check-in. It takes around 20 minutes in total. Of course, if you take too much luggage, a taxi, Uber or Bolt is more recommended, costing about 20 euros but taking about 30 minutes due to the heavy traffic jams.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Star Champs-Elysees, Paris (4 stars) or similar
► Recommendation for Free Time in Nimes: Explore the Pont du Gard
After lunch, you can pay a visit to the famous Pont du Gard on your own, which can always be seen on the 5-euro note. The old bridge spanning over the Gard River was built in the first century, stretching over 275 meters (902 ft.) and with a height of 49 meters (161 ft.). There are a total of 3 layers with 52 arches of various sizes. The ancient Roman aqueduct helped to deliver water to Nimes for over 50 km (31 mi). Today you can learn about its detailed displays involving its construction and witness the old artefacts in the nearby museum. Beyond appreciating the engineering wonder, here also features clear water, where you can swim and rent a boat to have fun.
► How to Get to Pont du Gard: Take Bus Line 121 from Nîmes -gare routière to Rond point pont du gard, which takes about 50 minutes and costs 2€.
Transfer from Nimes to Paris by Train (3 hours, tickets included)
In the late afternoon, from your hotel, walk southeast about 350 meters to Nîmes Centre Station to ride the train to Paris. Upon arrival at the Paris Gare de Lyon, take RER Line A from Gare de Lyon to Charles de Gaulle - Étoile. Get off and you can see the iconic Arc de Triomphe. Continue to walk north about 450 meters to reach the hotel for check-in. It takes around 20 minutes in total. Of course, if you take too much luggage, a taxi, Uber or Bolt is more recommended, costing about 20 euros but taking about 30 minutes due to the heavy traffic jams.
Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: Star Champs-Elysees, Paris (4 stars) or similar
Day 8 Paris Highlights: Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Seine Night Cruise
This morning, accompanied by your private guide, the Paris itinerary starts from the Louvre Museum. In the world’s most visited museum, you can have a glimpse at the artworks spanning from the ancient era to the mid-19th century, including the famous Mona Lisa with the mystic smile, and Venus de Milo. Getting out of the museum, then we will walk through the beautiful Tuileries Gardens, enjoying the fresh air in the heart of Paris, and finally reach the city’s largest square, Place de la Concorde (Concord Square), which witnessed the execution of Louis XVI and other historical events. After that, continue to walk along the world’s most beautiful avenue, the Champs-Elysees, lined with luxury brands, restaurants, theaters and boutiques. At the end of the street, you can see the Arc de Triomphe, located in the center of Place Charles de Gaulle. The next stop is the Eiffel Tower, the tallest architecture in Paris, with a height of 330 meters (1,083 ft.). The iron structure built in 1889 is repainted in a new golden hue for the 2024 Olympics.In the afternoon, you will be guided to Ile de la Cite Island, the ancient birthplace of Paris. First, we will go to visit Sainte Chapelle, an old royal chapel built in the 13th century featuring a Gothic style and super gorgeous stained-glass windows, especially beautiful on sunny days. Then we will head to the World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Conciergerie, standing along the Seine River. It used to be the royal palace of the king of France during the 10-14th centuries but later it was transformed into a prison at the end of the 14th century. During the French Revolution, over 2,000 people were imprisoned here, including the famous Marie-Antoinette, the last queen of France. Later, we will pass by the world-famous Notre Dame, and appreciate its spectacular medieval Catholic structure from the outside.
► Note: Due to the damage caused by the 2019 fire at Notre Dame Cathedral’s roof, the cathedral is still being repaired and has not opened yet. The French government has declared it will reopen to the public on December 8, 2024. Once opened, we will arrange for you to visit its exquisite interior.
Afterward, you will be accompanied to take a stroll in Le Marias District, the trendiest neighborhood in Paris, home to more than 200 antique and design stores. Beyond that, you can also linger around the Jewish Quarter and feel the old-world charm.
★ Special Arrangement: Enjoy a Seine River Night Cruise
Finish today’s itinerary, and your private guide will escort you to board a ship to cruise along the Seine River for about 1 hour. Hemingway once said, "Paris is a movable feast," and the Seine River is surely the pearl necklace in this feast. Cruising on the Seine River to take in the gorgeous night views and sparkling Eiffel Tower is unmissable. The cruise will pass famous sights including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Place de la Concorde, Musee d 'Orsay, Tuileries Gardens, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Alexandre III Bridge, offering a different angle to soak up the city’s glittering monuments.
► Note: The cruise we booked for you is not time-limited, you can choose the boarding time according to your preference. Generally, we recommend boarding after the sunset, but there will be more crowds at night and you need to queue up longer during high season. If departing on the hour, you may see the Eiffel Tower’s illumination on the cruise two times as it sparkles for the first 5 minutes of every hour.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Star Champs-Elysees, Paris (4 stars) or similar
Beautiful Seine River
Arc de Triomphe, Paris
► Note: Due to the damage caused by the 2019 fire at Notre Dame Cathedral’s roof, the cathedral is still being repaired and has not opened yet. The French government has declared it will reopen to the public on December 8, 2024. Once opened, we will arrange for you to visit its exquisite interior.
Afterward, you will be accompanied to take a stroll in Le Marias District, the trendiest neighborhood in Paris, home to more than 200 antique and design stores. Beyond that, you can also linger around the Jewish Quarter and feel the old-world charm.
★ Special Arrangement: Enjoy a Seine River Night Cruise
Finish today’s itinerary, and your private guide will escort you to board a ship to cruise along the Seine River for about 1 hour. Hemingway once said, "Paris is a movable feast," and the Seine River is surely the pearl necklace in this feast. Cruising on the Seine River to take in the gorgeous night views and sparkling Eiffel Tower is unmissable. The cruise will pass famous sights including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Place de la Concorde, Musee d 'Orsay, Tuileries Gardens, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Alexandre III Bridge, offering a different angle to soak up the city’s glittering monuments.
► Note: The cruise we booked for you is not time-limited, you can choose the boarding time according to your preference. Generally, we recommend boarding after the sunset, but there will be more crowds at night and you need to queue up longer during high season. If departing on the hour, you may see the Eiffel Tower’s illumination on the cruise two times as it sparkles for the first 5 minutes of every hour.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Star Champs-Elysees, Paris (4 stars) or similar
Mona Lisa in Louvre Museum
Famous Panthéon
Day 9 Paris: Versailles Palace Tour with Gardens, Trianons and the Queen’s Hamlet
After breakfast, you will be picked up to take in the luxurious Versailles Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site, situated about 19 kilometers (12 mi) west of Paris. Once served as the royal residence of France Kings from King Louis XIV to Louis XVI, the palace is well known not only for its epitome of opulence, architecture grandeur, and spectacular gardens but also for its political history. Your guide will accompany you to dive deep into the grand palace with 700 rooms and have a glimpse of the French royal life in the 17th century. When approaching the great palace, the first thing that catches your eyes is the imposing statue, Monument a Louis XIV. Keep on going, and we will come to the Royal Apartments, the heart of the Sun King's and his wife’s residence. Then you will see the beautiful Baroque-style gallery, Hall of Mirrors, also the most famous room in the palace, boasting 357 exquisite mirrors wrapped by 17 gorgeous arches and set in marble columns. It is also the place where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, ending World War I. Later you will stop by Royal Chapel to view its stunning vaulted ceiling fresco and detailed designs. You will then have some free time to stroll around the palace’s vast gardens, Jardins du Chateau de Versailles.★ Enjoy Musical Gardens & Fountain Shows
If you visit in summer, you may have a chance to enjoy fantastic fountain shows, which are generally scheduled every weekend from April to October and mid-May to the end of June (Tuesdays). At that time, the spouting water is accompanied by the rhythm of Louis XIV's court baroque music. You can totally soak up the magnificent fountains and beautiful French gardens as the entrance fee is included in our price.
In the afternoon, your guided visit continue to I Trianons E Le Hameau. Compared to the main palaces, the Trianons are much quieter. The vast mansion-style lodges are places where Louis XV and Louis XVI spend their leisure time. Petit Trianon and Queen's Hamlet offer an insight into Queen Marie Antoinette’s personal living. Experience the idyllic French countryside, and then you will be sent back to Paris.
► Why was Versailles Palace Built Far from the Paris City Center?
Before the 17th century, the original chosen site of the Versailles Palace was just a humble hunting lodge and private retreat for Louis XIII. There are two reasons why it became a principal royal residence and center of political power in France.
a. The Sun King Louis XIV moved the royal residence and the French government to Versailles in 1682 and strengthened his own decision-making power. To rule over a centralized and absolutist state around him, he forced the main nobles to live in Versailles, and even deployed a spy system to monitor. A series of operations made the running costs of Versailles high up to 25% of the country's annual revenue, but it was effective: the previously rebellious aristocrats were corrupted by the extravagant court life, and even proud of being invited to live in the palace.
b. Riots and rebellions were frequent in Paris in the 16th and 17th centuries, and two major ones happened when Louis XIV was 10 and 15 years old, caused a huge psychological shadow for him. That was why he decided to move the court from the Paris center to Versailles.
► Famous French Dishes Recommendation:
After returning from Versailles Palace to Paris, the rest time is free for you to sample some culinary delights in the world-famous capital of gastronomy. Hereunder are some of the most recommended French dishes:
1. Escargots à la Bourguignonne (Snails in Garlic-Herb Butter): Consisting of fresh snails, butter, garlic, and parsley, the traditional French dish is served with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs or truffles for a richer taste.
Recommended Restaurants: L’escargot Montorgueil; Chez Ferdinand Christine
2. Foie gras: Meaning ‘Fatty Liver’ in English, the famous French delicacy cooked by high quality goose livers, featuring a delicate, soft and butter flavor.
Recommended Restaurants: BENEDICT (serving the specialty Beef Hamburger with Duck Liver); Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie
3. Confit de canard (French Slow-cooked Duck): The age-old French dish refers to the duck legs slowly cooked in duck fat until the meat falls off the bone. Then it will be pan-fried and served with slices of potatoes. The duck skin tastes crispy and savory.
Recommended Restaurant: La grille montorgueil
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Star Champs-Elysees, Paris (4 stars) or similar
Paintings in Palace of Versailles
Gorgeous Ceilings in Versailles Palace
If you visit in summer, you may have a chance to enjoy fantastic fountain shows, which are generally scheduled every weekend from April to October and mid-May to the end of June (Tuesdays). At that time, the spouting water is accompanied by the rhythm of Louis XIV's court baroque music. You can totally soak up the magnificent fountains and beautiful French gardens as the entrance fee is included in our price.
In the afternoon, your guided visit continue to I Trianons E Le Hameau. Compared to the main palaces, the Trianons are much quieter. The vast mansion-style lodges are places where Louis XV and Louis XVI spend their leisure time. Petit Trianon and Queen's Hamlet offer an insight into Queen Marie Antoinette’s personal living. Experience the idyllic French countryside, and then you will be sent back to Paris.
► Why was Versailles Palace Built Far from the Paris City Center?
Before the 17th century, the original chosen site of the Versailles Palace was just a humble hunting lodge and private retreat for Louis XIII. There are two reasons why it became a principal royal residence and center of political power in France.
a. The Sun King Louis XIV moved the royal residence and the French government to Versailles in 1682 and strengthened his own decision-making power. To rule over a centralized and absolutist state around him, he forced the main nobles to live in Versailles, and even deployed a spy system to monitor. A series of operations made the running costs of Versailles high up to 25% of the country's annual revenue, but it was effective: the previously rebellious aristocrats were corrupted by the extravagant court life, and even proud of being invited to live in the palace.
b. Riots and rebellions were frequent in Paris in the 16th and 17th centuries, and two major ones happened when Louis XIV was 10 and 15 years old, caused a huge psychological shadow for him. That was why he decided to move the court from the Paris center to Versailles.
► Famous French Dishes Recommendation:
After returning from Versailles Palace to Paris, the rest time is free for you to sample some culinary delights in the world-famous capital of gastronomy. Hereunder are some of the most recommended French dishes:
1. Escargots à la Bourguignonne (Snails in Garlic-Herb Butter): Consisting of fresh snails, butter, garlic, and parsley, the traditional French dish is served with shredded cheese, breadcrumbs or truffles for a richer taste.
Recommended Restaurants: L’escargot Montorgueil; Chez Ferdinand Christine
2. Foie gras: Meaning ‘Fatty Liver’ in English, the famous French delicacy cooked by high quality goose livers, featuring a delicate, soft and butter flavor.
Recommended Restaurants: BENEDICT (serving the specialty Beef Hamburger with Duck Liver); Le Comptoir de la Gastronomie
3. Confit de canard (French Slow-cooked Duck): The age-old French dish refers to the duck legs slowly cooked in duck fat until the meat falls off the bone. Then it will be pan-fried and served with slices of potatoes. The duck skin tastes crispy and savory.
Recommended Restaurant: La grille montorgueil
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Star Champs-Elysees, Paris (4 stars) or similar
Outside the Versailles Palace
Exquisite Interior of Versailles Palaces
Day 10 Paris Departure
This is the last day of your 10 days Spain to France tour and it’s time to say goodbye. Today you need to arrive at the Aéroport de Paris-Charles de Gaulle by yourself for a homeward journey. Wish you a nice trip!
► From the Hotel to Paris Charles-De-Gaulle Airport:
a. A taxi costs around 50-55 euros. Please note that the last 1km from the city to Charles de Gaulle Airport is always very congested. Though the estimated travel time on Google Map is around 30 minutes, the real time could be 20 minutes more. It is better to depart early.
b. By public transport, you can walk south about 450 meters to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile to take RER Line A to Chatelet Les Halles and transfer to RER Line B to the airport. It takes about 1 hour and costs about 16 euros per person.
Meals: Breakfast
► Self-guided Time on Seine Left Bank - the Latin Quarter of Paris
If you still have much time today, then don’t miss exploring the city’s most atmospheric neighborhood, full of history and teeming with university students. The cobble streets are lined with old bookstores, restaurants, fancy bars, coffee shops and ancient ruins. Here we recommend a classic walk route for you to take in its charm in 3-4 hours.
1. Quai de Seine & Bouquinistes: famous riverside second-hand book sellers offer quirky books, posters, and postcards.
2. Shakespeare and Company: an interesting English book store frequented by famous writers like Hemingway, Fitzgerald and James Joyce.
3. Jardin du Luxembourg: boasting the most beautiful park in Paris.
4. Panthéon: an early example of neoclassical architecture containing tombs of famous figures like Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Marie Curie.
5. Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont: a beautiful church built between the 15th and 17th centuries, preserving Paris’s last surviving rood screen.
6. Place de l'Estrapade: a small square with a fountain.
7. Marché Monge: an old open-air market founded in 1921, offering meat, fruits, local produce, cheese, and flowers.
8. Jardin des Plantes: the last stop, home to 4 museums and a small zoo.
► From the Hotel to Paris Charles-De-Gaulle Airport:
a. A taxi costs around 50-55 euros. Please note that the last 1km from the city to Charles de Gaulle Airport is always very congested. Though the estimated travel time on Google Map is around 30 minutes, the real time could be 20 minutes more. It is better to depart early.
b. By public transport, you can walk south about 450 meters to Charles de Gaulle – Étoile to take RER Line A to Chatelet Les Halles and transfer to RER Line B to the airport. It takes about 1 hour and costs about 16 euros per person.
Meals: Breakfast
► Self-guided Time on Seine Left Bank - the Latin Quarter of Paris
If you still have much time today, then don’t miss exploring the city’s most atmospheric neighborhood, full of history and teeming with university students. The cobble streets are lined with old bookstores, restaurants, fancy bars, coffee shops and ancient ruins. Here we recommend a classic walk route for you to take in its charm in 3-4 hours.
1. Quai de Seine & Bouquinistes: famous riverside second-hand book sellers offer quirky books, posters, and postcards.
2. Shakespeare and Company: an interesting English book store frequented by famous writers like Hemingway, Fitzgerald and James Joyce.
3. Jardin du Luxembourg: boasting the most beautiful park in Paris.
4. Panthéon: an early example of neoclassical architecture containing tombs of famous figures like Voltaire, Jean-Jacques Rousseau, and Marie Curie.
5. Église Saint-Étienne-du-Mont: a beautiful church built between the 15th and 17th centuries, preserving Paris’s last surviving rood screen.
6. Place de l'Estrapade: a small square with a fountain.
7. Marché Monge: an old open-air market founded in 1921, offering meat, fruits, local produce, cheese, and flowers.
8. Jardin des Plantes: the last stop, home to 4 museums and a small zoo.
Expand All
Collapse All
This trip can be customized to meet your individual needs!
Itineraries you may also like: