ITINERARY DETAILS
DAY 1
Paris
Welcome in France! Your driver will transfer you from the Paris international Airport to your hotel of choice. After check-in you will have the afternoon to relax and enjoy the amenities of your hotel.
DAY 2
Paris Highlights, Eiffel Tower and Saint Germain des Pres Foody walking tou
Your personal driver and expert guide will take you on an unforgettable journey through Paris, starting with a visit to the world-famous Eiffel Tower. After taking in breathtaking views from its heights, continue to must-see landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe, the elegant Champs-Élysées, and the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral. Along the way, enjoy strolls through the charming streets of Île Saint-Louis, a picturesque, village-like island behind Notre Dame, where time seems to slow down. Experience the authentic Parisian lifestyle with a leisurely stop in the famous Saint-Germain-des-Pres quarter, where you can sip coffee like an artist or local at a historic café. Taste some specialties on the road with your guide.
DAY 3
Versailles & Montmartre, From royal splendor to Parisian charm
After breakfast, you will be captivated by this guided tour that combines the grandeur of Versailles Palace with the artistic charm of Montmartre. Visit the opulent Palace of Versailles, where you’ll explore the stunning Hall of Mirrors, royal apartments, and sprawling gardens that once housed French royalty. Learn about the palace's rich history and its significance in shaping France’s past. In the afternoon, head back to Paris and discover the bohemian neighborhood of Montmartre. Stroll through its cobbled streets, visit the iconic Sacré-Cœur Basilica with breathtaking views of the city, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere that has inspired artists for generations. Enjoy a crepe there!
DAY 4
From Paris to Bordeaux
Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Paris Montparnasse train station, where you’ll board a high-speed direct train to Bordeaux. Upon your arrival, you'll be greeted by your driver for a private car transfer to your chosen hotel. After check-in, you’ll have time at leisure to relax and explore at your own pace. Alternatively, you can enjoy a Tour as a presentation of Bordeaux and the region. Explore the vibrant heart of Bordeaux with private walking tours through its historic streets, UNESCO landmarks, and thriving food scene. Enjoy curated tastings of local specialties and visits to iconic sites.
DAY 5
The Countryside, Saint Emilion Village & wine
Meet your expert guide and head to the enchanting village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its medieval charm and exceptional vineyards. Wander through the picturesque, cobbled streets, where you'll encounter iconic sites, including the Monolithic Church, one of the largest underground churches in Europe. Marvel at its stunning architecture and delve into its historical significance within this charming village. Continue your exploration with a delightful tasting tour at a local château, where you’ll learn all about the renowned Grand Cru Saint-Émilion wines. Experience the intricate winemaking process and savor the exceptional flavors that this celebrated region has to offer.
DAY 6
The Bassin d'Arcachon
Continue your regional journey with an unforgettable full-day adventure to the breathtaking Arcachon Basin, a true coastal paradise. Beginning in the charming city of Arcachon, known for its golden beaches and elegant 19th-century villas that exude timeless charm. From there, you’ll set off on a scenic pinasse boat ride, gliding across the serene waters of the basin. This traditional wooden boat offers unmatched views of idyllic oyster villages, sweeping shorelines, and stunning natural beauty. As you drift through this tranquil haven, indulge in a fresh oyster tasting paired with a crisp glass of wine, a perfect complement to the serene and scenic surroundings.
DAY 7
From Bordeaux to Spain
Your driver will pick you up from your hotel and transfer you to Bordeaux train station, where you will board a high-speed direct train to Hendaye, the door of Spain. Upon your arrival, you'll be greeted by your driver for a private car transfer to your chosen hotel. Welcome in Spain!
DAY 8
Bilbao – City Tour of Bilbao with Guggenheim Museum
Accompanied by your experienced guide you will stroll around the historic old quarter of Bilbao, popularly known as the Seven Streets, and discover emblematic buildings such as Saint James's Gothic Cathedral, the Plaza Nueva (New Square), the San Antón Church and the Mercado de la Ribera (Seaside Market) the biggest covered market in Europe. You will then continue to the Guggenheim Museum for a guided tour. Discover the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, a symbol of the revitalization of the city. Today’s tour will focus on the architecture of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao building. The permanent collection houses artworks by great figures in the world of art: David Salle, Chillida, Jeff Koons, Louis Bourgeois, and Robert Rauschenberg to name a few. Designed by the North American architect Frank Gehry, the building is composed of a series of interconnected volumes; some of them are limestone-coated orthogonal shapes while others are curved and twisted shapes in metallic titanium skin. These volumes are linked by glass curtain walls for remarkable transparency throughout.
DAY 9
Day Tour to San Sebastian
After meeting your private guide and driver, you will go to San Sebastian to enjoy a guided tour exploring the old Casino, La Concha beach, and Victoria Eugenia Theatre among other highlights. San Sebastian lies along a white sandy bay between hills, surrounded by beautiful green scenery. The picturesque old town is located between the sea and the River Urumea, the marina, and the fishermen's district. The old Casino, nowadays the City Hall, looks over the sea, from where an elegant promenade with railings and streetlamps runs along beautiful La Concha Beach. On one of the banks of the Urumea River, you find the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, the Maria Cristina Hotel, built in plateresque style, aristocratic houses from the beginning of the 20th century, and the “María Cristina Bridge”, a monumental bridge that crosses the river. Discover tradition and modernity going hand in hand in this coastal Leisure City with touches of the Belle Époque, its international film and jazz festivals, and a first-class cultural program. At the end of the tour, time free for lunch and back to Bilbao.
DAY 10
From Bilbao to Madrid by the wine region
Enjoy a picturesque journey from Bilbao to Madrid with an unforgettable detour through the famed Rioja wine region. This day blends luxurious travel, stunning scenery, and the rich flavors of Spain’s most celebrated wines and cuisine. Pause at a prestigious winery nestled amid rolling vineyards and bask in the beauty of Rioja’s idyllic landscapes. Take an exclusive tour of the vineyards and cellars as you uncover the time-honored traditions behind Rioja’s exceptional wines. Savor a curated tasting of robust reds and refined whites, guided by an expert sommelier. Relish a gourmet multi-course meal featuring regional delights, perfectly paired with the estate’s wines. Refreshed and inspired, continue your journey to Madrid.
DAY 11
Madrid – Madrid Old Quarter and Royal Palace Walking Tour
Marvel through the rich history of Madrid during your private walking tour of the city's historic center and the Royal Palace. Your licensed English-speaking guide will meet you at your hotel, before setting off through the historic streets, discovering the old quarter, the Barrio de la Moreria, and learning about the city's Moorish roots. Continuing to the Renaissance and Baroque buildings of the Habsburg era, in Calle Mayor, the Plaza Mayor, and the Plaza de la Villa. At the end of your walking tour through the old quarter, make sure to visit the impressive Royal Palace, the former residence of the Spanish Kings. The palace is adorned with the royal family's exquisite collection of tapestries, porcelain, antique clocks, armor, and artworks. Admire priceless paintings by Goya and Velazquez, as well as the official Reception Hall, the Royal Chapel, Hall of the Throne, and the private room of King Carlos III and Queen Isabel II.
DAY 12
Madrid - Toledo half-day
Today you will explore this monumental city, the first capital of the Spanish Empire. Discover the impressive Cathedral, the old Palace of Justice, the Town Hall, the old Jewish quarter, and much more. You will be overwhelmed by the spectacular views of the city over the Tagus River and start with a nice walk-through of Toledo with your expert local guide continuing through the old Jewish quarter, with its narrow streets. Toledo has been the cradle of steel workshops for centuries, not only in Spain and you will be able to witness local craftsmen working steel to transform it into impressive swords, and helmets. Revel in the beauty of the Cathedral of Toledo which is considered the best expression of Gothic art in Spain. The Church of San Tomé houses El Greco's famous painting "The Burial of the Count Orgaz", the masterpiece of the Greek genius who settled in Toledo. Along with other memorable treasures of this city, you will also explore the old Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca, considered a symbol of the coexistence of the three cultures in Toledo.
DAY 13
Departure
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Madrid Airport, to catch your departure flight.