ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS
- Wander through the historic halls of the Louvre Museum, home to an unparalleled collection of art and antiquities, including the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa
- Immerse yourself in the opulent splendour of Versailles, exploring its grandeur and history on an exclusive private tour
INCLUSIONS
- Private transport by Mercedes E Class or similar for sightseeing.
- Basic English-speaking driver for stated transfers
- Expert local English-speaking guides for stated sightseeing in Paris
- Vehicles, drivers, guides & driver-guides available for the stated amount of sightseeing as applicable, i.e. 3-4 hours for half day tours and 8 hours for full day tours, starting from the time indicated in the final itinerary
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- The services of an Abercrombie & Kent Guardian Angel including telephone monitoring at each hotel and reconfirmation of arrangements with all service providers.
- Welcome pack
- Complimentary bottled water is provided in all vehicles throughout your tour
- All taxes
- 24 hour emergency contact service
EXCLUSIONS
- All air travel and associated costs
- All meals except breakfast unless stated otherwise in the itinerary
- Accommodation
- Airport Transfers
- Porterage
- Gratuities*
- All items of a personal nature (e.g. beverages, telephone calls, laundry, personal insurance)
- Anything not specifically mentioned in the “Inclusions” list above.
- Visas are not included. Clients are responsible for checking entry requirements and obtaining their own Visa if required
Itinerary
Arrive Paris
Known as the 'City of Light', Paris boasts some of the most iconic landmarks and museums in the world. Marvel at the Eiffel Tower which has been a powerful and distinctive symbol of the city for over a century. This wrought-iron lattice structure is an impressive sight to behold. Next, see the Arc de Triomphe. Standing at an impressive 50 metres (164 feet) tall, it is an awe-inspiring sight. With its ornate carvings and intricate design, it is a testament to the triumphs of French history. Take a stroll down the iconic avenue, the Champs-Elysées. This grand boulevard is lined with majestic trees and is the perfect place to take in the beauty of Paris and experience the vibrant culture of the city. Your tour also includes a visit to what is considered the historic and spiritual heart of Paris, the romantic île de la Cité. Here you have the opportunity to explore the stunning Sainte Chapelle, a royal chapel built in Gothic-style, which houses an extensive 13th-century stained glass collection.
In the afternoon enter the Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that has become one of the world's most recognisable places of worship. Major restoration works have taken place following the tragic fire in 2019 and the project has mobilised 2,000 artisans and cost 700 million euros in total. One of the major restoration efforts focused on reconstructing the spire, originally designed by 19th-century architect Eugène Viollet-le-Duc. (6 hours, driver and guide)
Home to world-famous art galleries, museums and monuments, such as the Louvre, Musée d'Orsay and the Eiffel Tower, Paris is a global hub of art, fashion, gastronomy and culture. The Arc de Triomphe, also known as the Place de l’Etoile, is one of Paris' focal points, marking the grave of the Unknown Soldier, and it stretches into one of the most famous boulevards in the world: the Champs Elysees. Of course, the city’s most recognised symbol is the Eiffel Tower, named after the engineer who designed it, Gustave Eiffel, while Notre Dame ranks as one of the world's most famous places of worship. The Paris Opera was the largest theatre in the world in its heyday, and the vast Louvre Palace contains one of the world's largest and greatest museums, showcasing the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo!
Paris
Situated to the west of Paris, Versailles is the location of the vast palace that was constructed in the seventeenth century for Louis XIV, the 'Sun King'. Housing up to 4,000 people, the palace was the glory of his reign and the epicentre of political power in France at the time. It became the model for grand houses all over Europe. During your tour, explore the complex of rooms and apartments that make up this extraordinary palace. Marvel at the opulent Grand Apartments - a collection of seven prestigious and lavishly-decorated rooms, all named after Roman Gods, which served as a parade apartment for the King's official acts. Step into the mesmerising Hall of Mirrors; the light flooding through windows on the one side of this 73 metre-long ballroom is reflected in no less than 17 huge mirrors on the opposite side. Afterwards, take a stroll in the formal ornamental gardens and see the Grand Canal which stretches into the distance across the park. (5 hours, driver and guide)
This evening explore the sights of Paris from a different perspective during your public dinner cruise on the Seine. Your cruise experience offers a mouth-watering four-course dinner accompanied by a selection of wines and live musical entertainment. Following a welcome glass of champagne, take your seats at a round table exceptionally-positioned towards the front of the boat. Return transfers from your hotel are included this evening. (3 hours, including private transfers)
Please note that subject to high water on the Seine, the boat may not be able to travel under certain bridges, so may need to take another route.
Depart Paris
Originally the royal residence of the kings of France, the Louvre is a palace full of art, history and culture. From the iconic Mona Lisa to the mysterious Venus de Milo, the Louvre is a must-see destination for art and history lovers alike. Explore the sprawling galleries and get lost in the beauty and mystery of the world's most famous art museum. Learn about the history of the Louvre itself, delve into the stories behind the art and uncover the secrets of this majestic palace. The main entrance to the museum, a glass pyramid designed by architect I M Pei, reflects the beauty of the world-renowned museum, adding a modern touch to the centuries-old architecture (4 hours, driver and guide).
Please note that due to the Louvre now operating a booking system with specific timed entrance tickets, it is important that you arrive promptly or risk not being allowed entry.
After your time at the Louvre, you are transferred in your private vehicle to Paris station where you will be assisted by your Guardian Angel for your onward train from Paris to Strasbourg.
Please note that you are responsible for carrying your own luggage on and off the train.
The rest of your time is under your own arrangements.
* Tipping is customary in Europe, and is at the clients’ discretion. We will be pleased to include a list of recommended tipping guidelines in your final itinerary or suggest an all-inclusive tips package that can be included in the total cost and that we, will promise to distribute fairly to ensure the best possible service.
Terms, conditions and restrictions apply; pricing, availability, and other details subject to change and/ or apply to US or Canadian residents. Please confirm details and booking information with your travel advisor.