France: Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz
France: Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz
France: Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz
France: Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz
The City of Light and the Southwest of France
Days: 11 | From: $8,875/per person
- Enjoy accommodations at best-in-class boutique hotels.
- Curated tours with excellent private guides. You’ll have an instant local friend with insider access!
- Experience Paris, Bordeaux, and Biarritz.
Paris is always a good idea, and a trip to France wouldn't be complete without spending at least a few nights in this magical city. This itinerary combines time in Paris with the Southwest of France. Visit Bordeaux, famous for its world-class wines, and spend a day in nearby Arcachon, known for its oysters and architecture. Then explore St. Emilion, a medieval city in the heart of the winelands, before heading south to the understated resort town of Biarritz in the heart of Basque country to enjoy the beaches, sun, sights, and surf.
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At a glance
- Paris
3 nights: Discover the sights of the City of Light - Bordeaux
4 nights: Explore the city of Bordeaux and sample its famous wines - Biarritz
3 nights: Enjoy the Atlantic Ocean and French Basque culture
All itineraries are fully customizable. We will send you a personalized variation that reflects your interests and travel dates at no extra cost. Call to discuss your travel plans with one of our Specialists who know this region firsthand.
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Sample itinerary
Bonjour!
Arrive in Paris, France’s capital city. Known as both the City of Light and the City of Love, Paris is a global center for culture, art, gastronomy, and fashion. Experience all of this and more over the next few days as you explore this magnificent city. Your private guide will be waiting to transfer you to your charming boutique hotel located near the Grands Boulevards. Once you’ve had a chance to check in and get settled, head out on a private bike tour of the city. Cycle along the Seine, past the Notre Dame, through the Jardin Du Luxembourg, and around quaint Parisian neighborhoods to get the lay of the land for the coming days.
Accommodations: Grand Hôtel Du Palais Royal, 3 nights
The Grand Hôtel Du Palais Royal in Paris is a luxurious 5-star hotel nestled in the heart of the city, just steps away from the iconic Louvre Museum and the Palais Royal gardens. This boutique hotel offers a blend of classic Parisian charm and contemporary sophistication, featuring well appointed rooms and suites with tasteful decor, marble bathrooms, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy gourmet cuisine at the Le Lulli restaurant, relax in the tranquil garden courtyard, or enjoy panoramic views of Paris from the rooftop terrace.
*Includes: BreakfastUpgrades and alternatives: Hôtel Adèle & Jules, Hôtel Brighton, Royal St. Honore, AND OTHERS.
The Palace of Versailles
Visit the château of Versailles, the original symbol of royal power and wealth. Set on over 2,000 acres of sculptured landscape, the grounds of this palace are magnificent and best explored on two wheels. Meet your small group at the train station in Paris and take the 45-minute ride out to Versailles. On arrival, pick up your bike and set out to discover the grounds. Visit the Royal Apartments and the Hall of Mirrors, among other sights. Bike through the gardens and enjoy a picnic lunch before heading back to Paris.
Paris at Leisure
Wander the Parisian streets at your leisure today. Take in the charming neighborhoods and relax in a café. Skip the line at the Louvre – your tickets are included, and you can explore the halls as long as you like. This evening you have tickets to the Eiffel Tower. Take the elevator to the top to enjoy 360-degree views of Paris and see why it’s called the City of Light.
Travel to Bordeaux
Take the train to Bordeaux, located in the southwest of France. Both a wine region and a city, Bordeaux offers endless options for exploration. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history and striking architecture. Your local private guide will be waiting to take you to your hotel, followed by a gourmet walking tour of the city. This Bordelais food tour includes stops at favorite local spots. Wander the cobbled streets, see the main sights, and learn the city’s history and culture from a local’s perspective.
Accommodations: Maison La Course, 4 nights
Nestled in the heart of Bordeaux's historic center, Maison La Course offers a captivating blend of modern elegance and classic French charm. This boutique hotel enchants guests with its impeccable attention to detail and personalized service, making every stay a unique and memorable experience. The hotel boasts beautifully appointed rooms, where contemporary design meets the spirit of the region, creating a harmonious and comfortable retreat. With its convenient location, Maison La Course provides easy access to Bordeaux's renowned vineyards, cultural landmarks, and vibrant dining scene, making it the perfect base for exploring the city's rich heritage and enjoying its world-class wines.
*Includes: BreakfastUpgrades and alternatives: Hôtel Singulier Bordeaux, Yndo Hotel, Les Sources de Caudalie, L’Hôtel Particulier Bordeaux, AND OTHERS.
Exploring St. Emilion by Bike
Set off on an E-bike to explore St. Emilion and the surrounding vineyards. Your guide will lead you from vineyard to vineyard, tasting local varietals and learning about the history of wine in the area. Explore the town of St. Emilion and enjoy a picnic lunch in a family-run vineyard.
Arcachon
Climb the largest sand dune in Europe while exploring Arcachon. Choose to take the stairs to the top or climb the soft sand barefoot. Once you’ve reached the top, you can take your time walking along the dune and enjoying the gorgeous views of the sea. Arcachon is a popular seaside resort town known for its miles of sandy beaches, vibrant town center, and beautiful Belle Epoque villas. Oysters are abundant here, so you may explore an oyster farm or take a boat tour past the iconic fishing cabins set on stilts out in the bay. Arcachon is also a popular biking spot, with a 20-mile bike route passing through several coastal towns. Plan a day to suit your interests.
Bordeaux Region Wine Tour
Taste the famous varietals of the Medoc region on a private wine tour. Drive along the castle road and stop at some of the most prestigious wineries of the Medoc, such as the Chateau Palmer, Chateau Margaux, Chateau Latour, and many others. These wineries cross through the different appellations that make up the Medoc: Margaux, Saint Julien, Pauillac, and Saint Estephe. Enjoy lunch at leisure in a charming village before continuing on your way back to Bordeaux.
Journey to Biarritz
Take the train to the seaside resort town of Biarritz. Located just north of the Spanish border, Biarritz is a cultural gem. With fantastic surfing, beautiful sand beaches, and a unique vibe, Biarritz is the perfect end to your southwestern France adventure. Part glam resort and part surf village, the combination, while odd, works. Your hotel is located right on the beach. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure relaxing in the sun.
Accommodations: Le Garage, 3 nights
Set in a renovated building that was once an old garage, Le Garage is now a 27 room luxury boutique hotel with a prime location in Biarritz. Decorated in a neo-avant garde style that is refined and unassuming, this hotel offers a terrace, restaurant and bar, and is a perfect place to stay while you discover the Basque region.
*Includes: BreakfastUpgrades and alternatives: L’Auberge Basque, AND OTHERS.
Explore Basque Country
Discover Basque Country in whatever way you most enjoy: mountain bike to San Sebastian along the coast; explore the coastal towns of St. Jean de Luz, Bidart, and Hendaye with a private guide; take a boat tour of the coast, stopping to swim in deserted coves; or head to Saint Jean Pied de Port and hike a portion of the Camino Frances.
Surfing the Atlantic
Relax and enjoy the beach! Biarritz is known for its surf, so this morning you’ll have a chance to hang ten. Meet your guide on the beach for a private surf lesson, learning the basics on land before you hit the waves. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
Departure for Home
Today you will say goodbye to your local guide and head to the airport for your flight home or to your next destination.
Popular Ways to Customize This Itinerary
Add a day to explore scenic San Sebastian.
Customize your city touring to suit your interests; whether it’s food and wine, cooking and creating, or history and art, there is something for everyone in each city.
Add a multi-day bike or hike to your time in Biarritz.
Contact us to learn about more options for designing and customizing your trip.
Why Travel with Vaya?
We're TRUE specialists
We’ve not only traveled there, we’ve lived there. Our smart and engaging specialists are all current or former expatriates with years of experience in the region.
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From the first phone call to after you get back, we're here for you every step of the way. We listen, create, customize and advocate for you, and design experiences that go beyond the expected.
Thoughtful travel
Our discerning sensibility and good taste go beyond just choices in hotels and top guides; we have a walk the walk commitment to the environment and are genuine leaders in conservation efforts.