Destination:
France,
Duration:
9 days
Travel Period:
April 2027 - October 2027
From Bordeaux and Rocamadour to Sarlat, Lascaux II and the Loire Valley, this tour reveals France through its food, history and architecture. Explore a cliffside pilgrimage site, browse Sarlat’s market, stay at Domaine de Monrecour, visit Chambord and end in Paris, with walking tours, local tastings and time in Bordeaux, Albi, Amboise and the Latin Quarter.
Sightseeing highlights
- Discover Paris, Bordeaux, Moissac, Dordogne region, and the Loire Valley
- Visit Palais de la Berbie Gardens & Saint-Cecile Cathedral in Alibi, Lascaux II Preshitoric Caves in Lascaux, and Chateau de Chambord.
- Scenic Drive through the Dordogne and the Loire Valley
Iconic Experience
- Bordeaux: See Bordeaux’s boulevards, squares and 18th-century architecture on an orientation drive through the city. Set on the Garonne River, Bordeaux has long been shaped by trade and winemaking, with a historic centre that reflects its place as one of France’s best-known wine capitals.
- Bordeaux: Explore Bordeaux with a Local Specialist, from Place des Quinconces, one of Europe’s largest public squares, to the Grand Théâtre, built in the 18th century. See Place de la Bourse reflected in the Miroir d’Eau, follow the riverfront to medieval Porte Cailhau, then continue through Saint-Pierre Quarter to Bordeaux Cathedral.
- Moissac: Get to know Moissac on an orientation before viewing the UNESCO-listed Abbey of Saint-Pierre, one of the key monastic sites on the pilgrimage routes to Santiago de Compostela. Known for its Romanesque cloister and richly sculpted portal, the abbey reveals the religious importance and artistic legacy that shaped this part of southwestern France.
- Albi: Visit Sainte-Cécile Cathedral, built almost entirely in brick and known as the largest cathedral of its kind in the world. Inside, you’ll see this UNESCO-listed site’s vast scale and decoration reflect the power of the Catholic Church in this part of France, while its fortress-like exterior reveals a very different side of religious architecture.
- Albi: Visit the Palais de la Berbie Gardens, laid out beside the former bishops’ palace high above the Tarn River. As you explore these formal gardens, you’ll see how their design, setting and views connect to the power once held here, with a vantage point that also gives you a wider look at Albi and its historic centre.
- Rocamadour: Explore Rocamadour, the UNESCO-listed village built into the cliff above the Alzou Canyon. As you make your way through its steep streets and religious landmarks, you’ll see why this dramatic hillside setting became one of France’s most important pilgrimage sites and remains one of the best-known places in the Dordogne region.
- Sarlat-la-Caneda: Browse Sarlat’s market, where you can see how market shopping still shapes daily life in France. As you move through the stalls, you’ll find local produce and regional specialities sold in the streets and squares of the old town.
- Lascaux: Visit Lascaux II and explore the replica caves created to protect the original prehistoric paintings nearby. As you walk through the chambers, you’ll see the animal figures and Paleolithic art that made Lascaux one of the most important prehistoric sites in Europe.
- Loire Valley: Travel into the Loire Valley, where the Loire River, vineyard landscapes, historic towns and château-lined horizons introduce one of France’s best-known regions. As the scenery changes, you’ll get your first look at the valley that became a centre of royal power, architecture and court life.
- Amboise: Join a Local Specialist to discover the design of the Loire Valley’s largest château. Built for Francis I from 1519, Chambord brings you into the scale of French Renaissance architecture and the royal ambition behind one of France’s most recognisable châteaus.
- Paris: Join a Local Specialist to discover the hidden squares and secret lanes of Paris.
What's Included
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 8 Breakfast (B)
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised
Your Itinerary
Welcome to Bordeaux
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Explore the Sights of Bordeaux
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UNESCO Treasures of Moissac and Albi
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Cliffside Rocamadour to Saint-Vincent-de-Cosse
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Classic French Markets
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Through the Dordogne to the Loire Valley
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Loire Valley’s Châteaux
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Journey to Paris
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Farewell Paris
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Dates & Pricing
Select your preferred date or enquire
Why book with RACT Travel?
Travel Partner
Get ready for a trip like no other. Since 1947, more than five million happy past guests have discovered our difference. You’ll see top destinations, iconic sites, and get treated to exclusive local experiences – all with our team taking care of all the details. You’ll also discover the ways WE MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®, and how your journey leaves a positive impact. Do good, feel good, and make memories that last a lifetime.