Destination: France

Paris

Paris, a truly iconic city, stands as a pinnacle of French culture and history. When visiting France, Paris undoubtedly emerges as a destination that cannot be missed. The sheer charm of Paris lies in the delight of leisurely strolls through its picturesque streets, but it also boasts a rich tapestry of museums, galleries, and gardens waiting to be discovered. What sets Paris apart is its ability to offer a unique experience with every visit – from exploring traditional tourist attractions to indulging in shopping sprees or embarking on a gastronomic journey through the heart of the city.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux, with its picturesque tree-lined boulevards, renowned art museums, sun-drenched vineyards, and magnificent Gothic architecture, offers a captivating blend of cultural and aesthetic appeal. The city, famous for its world-class wines and exceptional dining establishments, promises a gratifying experience for those exploring its charming streets.

Burgundy

Burgundy, or Bourgogne in French, stands as a historical region situated in east-central France. It is distinguished for its exquisite wine, Dijon mustard – derived from its capital, and striking natural allure. The charming towns and villages of Burgundy are embraced by awe-inspiring countryside, boasting lush meadows, undulating hills, and vibrant spring blooms. For senior explorers, the medieval architecture, serene canals, and magnificent vineyards of the region promise to captivate the senses with an unforgettable experience.

Figeac

Figeac, a delightful riverside town, boasts a profound medieval legacy that captivates discerning travellers. Wander through its quaint cobbled streets and marvel at the grand Renaissance residences adorned with intricate carvings on their facades. Delve into the town’s intriguing past intertwined with Benedictine monks and the significance of being a stopover for pilgrims. Furthermore, Figeac serves as an ideal hub for venturing out to neighbouring hilltop communities and medieval landmarks, offering an enriching historical journey for visitors.

Palace of Versailles

A visit to France would be incomplete without exploring the country’s iconic and opulent palace. Originally a humble hunting lodge, Louis XIV masterfully reimagined it into the extravagant Chateau de Versailles during the 17th century. This estate comprises not only the Palace itself but also expansive gardens, a vast park, the Trianon estate, and various buildings within the town, sprawling across over 800 hectares of land.

Mont St Michel

Mont Saint-Michel, an iconic and captivating landmark in France, stands as a testament to architectural prowess and historical significance. Situated on a small island amidst the sandbanks between Normandy and Brittany, this enchanting site becomes isolated during high tide, offering a unique and mesmerizing experience. Accessible via a footbridge, visitors are drawn to the island’s centerpiece – a remarkable abbey that reigns over the rocky islet. With its origins dating back to 966 AD when Benedictine monks first established their presence, the abbey has undergone continuous expansion and transformation across centuries, showcasing a rich tapestry of history and religious heritage.

Noirmoutier

Noirmoutier, an island in the Bay of Biscay, is intricately linked to the mainland by a contemporary bridge. Despite its positioning in the Atlantic, Noirmoutier exudes a Mediterranean vibe, boasting extensive sandy beaches ensconced by towering pines, complemented by whitewashed facades adorned with charming blue shutters. It stands as an idyllic destination for a coastal escape, offering a blend of picturesque landscapes, ideal for beach enthusiasts, and a culinary delight with its array of delectable seafood options.

Lavender Fields in the Provence

The iconic lavender fields of Provence epitomize the beauty of France for many. Among these, the Valensole Plateau stands out as one of the most renowned worldwide, surrounded by picturesque sunflowers. This stunning region is home to the charming town of Valensole, which is graced by an 11th-century church at its heart. Leisurely walk through the vibrant fields and soak in the mesmerizing views that this area has to offer.

France has a single time zone (excluding its overseas territories), Central European Time. The nation observes daylight saving time from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October.

When traveling in Europe, including France, tipping etiquette is an important aspect to consider. The customary practice in France, much like in other European countries, is to tip about 10% of the bill at restaurants. For more casual dining establishments, a tip of 1 to 3 euros is considered appropriate. Additionally, when buying drinks, it is polite to either round the bill up to the nearest whole figure or leave the change as a tip. Tipping is a way to show appreciation for good service and is part of the cultural norms in France, so being mindful of tipping practices can enhance your overall experience while in the country.

Internet is easily accessible, and most hotels and many cafes will be able to offer it.

Ensure you consult your cell phone provider to verify if you can make calls and use data while in France. Numerous providers offer daily fees enabling you to use your phone abroad without incurring additional charges. Nonetheless, it is essential to notify your provider of your international travel plans, as they may suspend your service due to suspicious activity, similar to how a bank can restrict access.

Odyssey presents a captivating selection of 10 distinctive tours tailored to unravel the essence of France. Delve into the enchanting natural wonders, delve deep into its ancient Roman and Imperial legacy, and uncover the allure of its prestigious World Heritage Sites and renowned cities. Embark on a journey through France’s picturesque landscapes, all awaiting exploration on Odyssey’s small group tours. Crafted with the senior traveler in mind, our expeditions are guided by seasoned and passionate individuals who share a common enthusiasm for discovery.

Following Monet

History of France by Rail

Provincial France

La Belle France

Belgium, Netherlands, France & Germany Art tour

Theatre-Opera-Ballet & Classical Music tour of Europe

Western Europe Gardens & Chateaux

Anglo French Journey

France on Foot

Romans in France

Odyssey’s tours are typically half or full-board, we include all accommodation, as well as:

• Transport and field trips as indicated.
• Applicable entry fees and services of local guides.
• Gratuities and necessary tips.
• Services of an Odyssey group leader.
• Detailed Tour Information Booklet.

Many travellers ask us how best to prepare for their Odyssey Traveller programs, seeking out advice on clothing, medication, insurance, among other concerns when travelling overseas. This article shares some of what we have learned from years of accumulated experience in leading small group tours to assist you when travelling overseas what to pack.

Odyssey’s tour itinerary with prices in your selected currency, to France, can be found here.

Odyssey recommends visiting France is in spring (April-May), or autumn (September-October). These are also less crowded months, compared to Sumemr (June-August).

The safety of our travellers, tour leader, local guide and support staff has always been our top priority and with the new guidelines for public health and safety for keeping safe for destinations around the world, we’ve developed our plan to give you peace of mind when travelling with us.

Odyssey specialises in educational small group tours for seniors, typically groups sizes are between 6 to 12 people. Odyssey has been offering this style of adventure and educational programs to since 1983. We offer a wide range of fully escorted, cultural and heritage journeys that expand horizons and broaden the mind. Our tours are designed for active, inquisitive travellers in a small group environment.

Odyssey Traveller offers intimate small group tours of France, tailored for solo travellers or couples looking for a curated experience led by expert tour managers and local guides. Our carefully crafted tours aim to strike a balance between exploring hidden gems off the beaten path and immersing in major cities. In Paris, the sophisticated capital, our small group tours provide a unique perspective, while excursions to Bordeaux, the vibrant port city and capital of the Gironde département, offer a different yet equally enriching experience.

Venturing beyond the urban landscape, our tours extend to Provincial France, with a focus on the charming villages of Alsace, and pay homage to the history of French gardens at the iconic Palace of Versailles. Delving into the world of Claude Monet, the renowned French Impressionist, our itineraries highlight his beloved locations in France, such as Le Havre on the Normandy coast. In Explore Paris tours, guests can explore notable sites like Place de la Bastille, the Tuileries Gardens, and the Musee de l’Armee, while the Southwest France tour promises a journey along the historic Canal du Midi, offering a glimpse into centuries-old travel experiences.

For those contemplating a France Odyssey tour, important considerations include selecting preferred destinations, timing that suits your schedule, and choosing the most convenient mode of transportation within the country. Whether you opt for a comprehensive country-wide tour or prefer to delve deeply into a single city, Odyssey Traveller guarantees ample time to delve into France’s rich culture, history, and people, ensuring a fulfilling experience for solo travellers or companions alike.

When it comes to our tours, we select our destinations with an eye to getting off the beaten path, during Spring or Autumn, to avoid heavy crowds.

Contact the nearest embassy or consulate of France for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

France is part of the Schengen area. This means you can enter France without a visa in some cases. In other situations, you need a visa.

Here are some must-do Paris experinces:

Climb to the top of the Eiffel Tower

Visit the Louvre

Visit the Cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris

View Arc de Triophe at the end of Champs-Élysées

Take a trip to the Palace of of Versailles

Visit the Roman Catholic church in the heart of Paris – Sacré-Cœur Basilica