Travel to Giverny for an enchanting visit to artist Claude Monet's garden (seasonal*), inspiration for his famed series of water lily paintings and declared one of National Geographic's “top 10 most magnificent gardens in the world.” Continue to the pretty port town of Honfleur for a National Geographic Expedition Leader led walk and some free time in this historic harbour where the Seine River meets the English Channel. This evening, arrive in Bayeux and enjoy a dinner at a local crêperie.
*Monet Gardens is closed from Nov 1 through April 1 yearly. As a result, any departures falling over that time will alternatively visit the Musée de l'Orangerie. At this premiere Gallery in Paris you can view Monet's Waterlilies and many other Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings from a number of famed artists.
Delve into World War II history alongside a recognized war historian. Gain insights during a lecture on the Allied invasion of Normandy, and examine and handle wartime relics such as vintage weapons, uniforms, and maps at a local museum. Then board a transport vehicle and head to Secqueville-en-Bessin War Cemetery to learn about the significance of poppies—the ultimate emblem of military sacrifice. This afternoon, conjure scenes of the D-Day landing at notable Normandy sites including Omaha Beach, the cratered cliff-top at Pointe du Hoc, and the American cemetery and memorial.
Go on an excursion to Mont-Saint-Michel, an island commune off the coast of Normandy. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, the medieval fortress dates to the 8th century and is considered one of Europe’s most stunning and imposing sites. Get your bearings on an National Geographic Expedition Leader led orientation walk and then explore on your own. Opt to visit the abbey, monastery, or museums, or simply wander the winding lanes and cobblestone streets.
Enjoy a free day to explore Bayeux and its medieval centre. Amble along its quaint streets, taking in the local scene at shops and cafés. Then opt to visit the 11th-century Cathedral of Bayeux, a Norman-Romanesque architectural gem, and see the famed Bayeux Tapestry, which depicts the conquest of England by William, Duke of Normandy.
Depart for riverside Rouen and set out around the port city on foot. Discover the beautiful city centre, noted for its Gothic churches and medieval half-timbered houses, and hear about its place in history as the place where Joan of Arc was tried for heresy. Enjoy free time here before heading back to Paris to spend the rest of the day at your leisure exploring the City of Lights.
Enjoy a National Geographic Expedition Leader led orientation walk this morning in the medieval centre of Paris, where you'll stroll by legendary sites like the Pyramide du Louvre, the Pont Neuf, the Conciergerie, and the majestic Notre Dame de Paris. Afterwards, indulge in a guided lunch presentation of French wine and cheese pairings, then take advantage of more free time to visit iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre.
Enjoy a free day to explore Paris on your own. Discover 19th-century glass-roofed arcades like Galerie Vivienne, visit artistic gems like the Musée de l'Orangerie, or simply relax at a café in La Butte-aux-Cailles. Then, reconnect with fellow travellers and your Expedition Leader this evening.
Board a high-speed train from Paris, watching the urban landscape fade into rolling green countryside as you speed toward the Loire Valley. Transfer to the historic river town of Blois for an orientation walk past half-timbered houses and royal plazas, stopping for lunch at a local bistro. Continue to Château de Cheverny for a self-guided walk through furnished rooms untouched by time, seasonal gardens in full bloom, and kennels still home to the château's working hounds. Arrive at your hotel with a free evening to enjoy at your own pace.
Begin the day in the riverside village of Amboise, following your National Geographic Expedition Leader along historic lanes lined with stone cottages and cozy bakeries. Next, head to Château de Chenonceau, an estate that stretches across the river Cher on a series of stone arches. Meet a local historian for a tour through grand arched galleries, rich Renaissance tapestries, and manicured gardens, learning about the women whose ambition and influence shaped its royal past. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening, with freedom to seek out a local spot for dinner.
Spend the morning at a family-run winery where the owners welcome you into their vineyards. Walk among the vines, learn about soil health and traditional harvest methods, and taste regional vintages over lunch. Afterward, head to Chisseaux to board a guided riverboat for a cruise along the Cher River, gliding beneath the arches of Château de Chenonceau. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon for a quiet evening and optional dinner with your group.
Board a train south to Bordeaux, a vibrant hub of culture, architecture, and gastronomy. Upon arrival, join your Expedition Leader for an orientation walk through wide pedestrian squares and past impressive limestone facades. Pause for lunch at Café Joyeux, a non-profit café dedicated to employing individuals with intellectual disabilities. Afterwards, head to the Cité du Vin museum, moving through its interactive exhibits before stepping out onto the Belvedere for a glass of wine and 360-degree city views.
After breakfast, set off to Saint-Émilion, a medieval village perched above ancient limestone hills. Step beneath the cobblestone streets with a local guide for an underground tour of the monolithic church and dark catacombs carved into the rock. Break for lunch on your own before continuing to a winery. Here, join a private tour of the estate and its stone-vaulted cellars, sampling regional Bordeaux and Saint-Émilion wines before returning to Bordeaux for a free evening.
Travel west to Arcachon on the Atlantic coast to encounter the Dune du Pilat, Europe's tallest sand dune. Climb to the top alongside your Expedition Leader for sweeping views over deep pine forests and ocean waves. Later, head into seaside Arcachon for an orientation walk along the waterfront promenade and an included lunch. Return to Bordeaux for a final evening together, gathering for an optional dinner featuring regional specialties.
