Magical Castles and Romantic Cities
France & Italy in 17 Days • 15 Nights in Destination
From
$4,899
/person
Isabel
Travel crafter
The ideal combination of our classic France and Italy tours! The perfect cultural journey to discover Paris, the enchanting Loire Valley, Rome, Florence, Venice and many more.
Trip Highlights
Included
All flights
Accommodation
Some transfers
Activities
Breakfast only
Availability
Departures available until December 2023
Available Group tours
Solo travelers from + $2,070
Add up to 3 nights to your stay
Categories available
charm included
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Categories Available:
From $4,899
Accommodation: 15 Nights
Itinerary
Land in Paris and enjoy its cultural delights. Roam the castles and delve into the reinassance culture of the breathtaking Loire Valley. Explore Mont Saint Michel and the Normandy coast. Jet over to Rome and admire one of 'The Eternal City' before heading to Florence to discover its hidden treasures from the Italian Renaissance period. Finally, explore Venice, the city of waterways and canals.
1st Day: Canada - Night on board
Ready to discover the spectacular cities and landscapes of France? Arrive at your departure airport to catch a flight to Paris.* Night on board.
* If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.
2nd Day: Paris
Arrive at Paris airport and transfer to your hotel. Paris is the capital of France and a great place to discover the city’s most famous tourist sights, the local culture and cuisine. Overnight stay in Paris.
Accommodation
611 Reviews
3rd Day: Paris
Breakfast at the hotel. Discover the city’s most famous tourist sights and monuments on a Half Day Sightseeing Tour by bus with a professional English-speaking guide. Marvel at Paris's best-known sights: Place Vendôme Square, place de l’opera, the Pantheon, Place de la Concorde, the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, the Invalides and the Eiffel Tower. End your tour in the city center. Why not grab a bite to eat in one of the many cafés or do a spot of shopping in this shoppers haven. The rest of the day is free to explore Paris at your leisure. Overnight stay in Paris.
Accommodation
611 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
4th Day: Paris - Orleans - Chambord - Tours
After breakfast, meet your English-speaking tour leader and depart Paris by coach towards the Loire Valley and its wonders of the Renaissance period. First stop is the capital of the Centre-Val de Loire region, Orleans. The history of this lovely city on the banks of the Loire River is inseparably bound with the history of Joan of Arc. While exploring the city independently, try not to miss the 13th century Sainte-Croix Cathedral and the Musée des Beaux-Arts, displaying around 700 artworks. After lunch, the tour continues with a visit to The Chambord Estate * one of the most emblematic castle examples of Renaissance architecture in France. Free time to stroll at your own pace in the heart of the castle and its gardens. Following this visit, transfer to the historic city of Tours. Overnight stay in Tours.
* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.
Accommodation
752 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
5th Day: Tours - Chenonceau - Tours
After breakfast at the hotel, explore the magnificent Castle of Chenonceau*. The two-story gallery stands upon a graceful arched bridge that crosses the Cher River which gives the impression that the castle is floating on water. Also known as "The Ladies’ Castle", it was initially constructed in 1513. Equalling the beauty of the interior, the Château's Renaissance French Gardens are perfectly landscaped with decorative pools and flower beds and are an important destination for garden lovers from all over the world. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Château of Amboise, an emblematic monument of the Loire Valley. The palace was built above the river, with landscaped gardens stretching from the earth to the sky, offering one of the most remarkable panoramas of the Loire. Overnight stay in Tours.
* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.
Accommodation
752 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
Light
6th Day: Tours - Mont Saint Michel
Breakfast at the hotel. Depart from Tours heading towards the world-renowned Mont Saint Michel, a Unesco World Heritage site. The car park stands approximately 1.5 miles away from the island. On leaving the coach, head for the Place des Navettes, where shuttle buses called Passeurs transfer to the mount itself. The Mount was consecrated to St-Michel from the year 708. The Benedictine Abbey* presents a grand panorama of medieval architecture from the XI-XVI centuries. Spend some time exploring the village built on the slopes in the shadow of the fortifications. Overnight in the surrounding area.
* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.
Accommodation
437 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
7th Day: Mont Saint Michel - Day Beaches Tour - Caen
After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of WW-II’s major sights. Visit, learn about and pay homage to Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach and Colleville-Sur-Mer Cemetery, of the Allied Forces. Also a visit to the Memorial de Caen*, a museum and war memorial commemorating World War II and the Battle for Caen, is included. Overall the museum is dedicated to the history of the twentieth century, mainly focusing on the fragility of peace. Overnight stay in Caen.
* Only entrance included with the possibility to book an audio-guide on the spot.
Accommodation
214 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
Light
8th Day: Caen - Honfleur - Paris
After breakfast, learn more about the best food and drink that this rich region of France has to offer, starting with a visit to the Village du Fromager. See all stages of cheese production and enjoy tasting the different types of cheese on offer. After the visit, head to Honfleur in time for a lunch break. This small city and harbour dates back to the Vikings invasion in the 11th century. After a couple of hours exploring the city, continue eastwards until reaching Paris. Overnight stay in Paris.
Accommodation
611 Reviews
Activities
Light
9th Day: Paris - Rome
Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for your flight to Rome. Arrive in the Italian capital, and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your arrival time, the remainder of the day is free to begin exploring this romantic, historic city. The evening is the most magical time of day in Rome when the streets take on an even more charming character. Overnight stay in Rome.
* Depending on the flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
Accommodation
3217 Reviews
10th Day: Rome
Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the meeting point and enjoy a guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill, three of the main archaeological sites of the Eternal City. Learn about the history of this empire, from its birth to the gladiatorial fights in the Colosseum, and appreciate the preserved corners of ancient Rome in the Forum and the Palatine Hill. We recommend the optional Piazzas and Fountains of Rome excursion.* The remainder of the day is at your leisure to explore the historic streets of Rome and dine on delicious Italian cuisine!** Overnight stay in Rome.
* Optional Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion: Take a pleasant walk through the artistic heart of Rome to visit its most symbolic piazzas and fountains! Visit Piazza Navona, the most elegant of all Rome squares and home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain. See the Church of San Luigi, the incredible Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain, an icon of the city. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna, the most photogenic spot in the city!
** Optional Authentic Italian meal at a restaurant in Campo Di Fiori: Enjoy an evening of authentic Italian cuisine in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome. Soak up the atmosphere as you indulge in Italian dishes at a local restaurant.
Accommodation
3217 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
Light
Moderate
11th Day: Rome
After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, enjoy a day at your leisure in Rome. Perhaps visit the Vatican, trace the footsteps of the greats in the ancient streets of the old city or simply indulge in some delicious Italian ice cream. However you choose to spend your day, Rome is sure to delight you with its old-world charm and unbeatable sights. We suggest taking the optional Guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel*. Overnight stay in Rome.
* Optional Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel: Explore the priceless treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit the Pio Clementino Hall, Laocoon and Apollo Belvedere, Maps Gallery, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel. Afterwards, discover the incredible St. Peter’s Basilica and the atmospheric St. Peter’s Square, dominated by Michelangelo’s imposing Cupola!
Please note: Optional tour available Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays afternoon, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only.
Why not upgrade your trip with our Must See's of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Accommodation
3217 Reviews
Activities
Light
Moderate
12th Day: Rome - Florence
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, meet your transfer and head to the train station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Florence. Arrive in Florence, the heart of the Italian Renaissance, and self-transfer* to the hotel. Rest of the day at your leisure to explore the city and keep enjoying the Italian cuisine in this gourmet paradise. Overnight stay in Florence.
* The hotel in Florence is located just a few minutes walk from the train station, however, it is possible to add a private transfer for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
1847 Reviews
13th Day: Florence
Breakfast at the hotel. Today head to the Historic Centre of Florence for a guided walking tour of Florence and discover the hidden secrets of the Tuscan capital. Start discovering Piazza Repubblica, one of the fanciest of the city, before heading to Loggia del Mercato Nuovo, a building where a local market takes place. Keep exploring the streets of Florence before arriving at the beautiful and well-known Ponte Vecchio, the most iconic bridge in the city and one of its main symbols. You will then walk through the Piazza della Signoria, the heart of Medieval Florence with the imposing Palazzo Vecchio. End the tour admiring Piazza San Giovanni, home to the impressive Florence Cathedral, with its iconic Brunelleschi cupola and the famous Giotto Belltower. Rest of the day at your leisure to continue exploring the captivating sights of Florence. Overnight stay in Florence.
Accommodation
1847 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
14th Day: Florence
Breakfast at the hotel. Full day at your leisure to enjoy your last day in the city. Florence's historical centre is considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so why not take a stroll on your own to discover its hidden treasures. Overnight stay in Florence.
* Optional Half-Day Tour to Pisa & The Leaning Tower: No trip to Italy is complete without a photo at the iconic leaning tower, so don't miss your chance to take a day trip to Pisa! Enjoy a guided walking tour of Piazza dei Miracoli and its monuments and visit the spectacular Pisa Cathedral before spending time at the legendary Leaning Tower of Pisa, learning all about the history of this University city along the way.
Accommodation
1847 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
15th Day: Florence - Venice Mestre
Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, self-transfer* to the station to catch the Frecciarossa high-speed train to Venice (Mestre Station). Arrive in the romantic city of Venice, self-transfer* to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Built across more than 100 small islands, Venice is a pleasure to explore on foot as you get lost in the labyrinthine streets, stumbling across hidden cafes and cultural gems along the way. Get out and discover the plentiful delights on this eternal city, such as the immense Piazza San Marco. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.
* The hotels in Florence and Venice are located just a few minutes walk from the train stations, however, it is possible to add a private transfer for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
Accommodation
3348 Reviews
16th Day: Venice
Breakfast at the hotel. Today, set off on a guided walking tour through Venice, through the fascinating streets and across the canals; a crossroads of culture where East meets West. Admire the Basilica and Piazza of San Marco next to Gothic-style Doge's Palace, the Campanile and the Clock Tower stand. Soak up the lively atmosphere of the Campo, a bustling square next to the Church of Santa Maria. Continue to marvel at the grand Basilica of San Giovanni e Paolo, uncover legendary tales of Marco Polo and finally return to St. Mark’s Square by strolling through the main Venetian shopping street, the Mercerie, and immerse yourself in the historic buzz of the city. The rest of the day is at your leisure to continue discovering this unique city at your own pace. Overnight stay in Venice Mestre.
* Optional Gondola Ride Experience: One of the most famous characteristics of Venice is its historic gondolas and now you can be a part of this legacy yourself! Experience an unforgettable 35-minute gondola ride through the charming waterways of Venice including the iconic Grand Canal. The quintessential Venetian experience! Note: Please note that it is a shared gondola (up to five people for each one) so you might have to share it with other people.
Why not upgrade your trip with our Must see's of Italy package of 2 excursions, available in the next step of the booking process!
Accommodation
3348 Reviews
Activities
Moderate
Light
17th Day: Venice - Canada
Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer by car from Venice Mestre to the airport for your return flight back to Canada. Arrive in Canada and end your trip.
* Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.
** Depending on the return flight schedule, you may arrive in Canada the next day and the total duration of the trip would be 18 days.
Included activity for day 3 in Paris
Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Paris Sightseeing Tour
Discover some of the most iconic and memorable places of Paris and admire the beauty of this incredible and romantic city. See Place Vendôme Square, marvel at the Paris Opera House and head to the Latin Quarter to see the impressive Pantheon.
What's included: Pick up at hotel. Panoramic tour of Paris by bus with English speaking guide. Stop at Eiffel Tower for pictures. Not included: Drop off at hotels, entrance tickets to monuments, meals, drinks, tips and any other service not mentioned in `what's included´
Included activity for day 4
Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Visit to the Chambord Chateaux & Estate
Visit the incredible Chambord Castle & Estate, one of the most emblematic chateaux in France and the finest example of French-Renaissance architecture!
What's included: Entrance included. Free time to discover the castle and its gardens Not included: Audio-guide (can be purchased at the destination)
Included activity for day 5 in Tours
Duration 01:30h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Castle of Amboise
This historic Castle, built in the late 15th century, became the favored royal residence under Charles VIII. Thereafter a place of residence for French kings from the 15th to the 19th century.
What's included: Entrance fee to Castle of Amboise. Free time to visit the site. Not included: Guide or audio-guide, meals, drinks, tips or any other service not mentioned in what's included.
Included activity for day 5 in Tours
Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Visit to the Castle of Chenonceau
Known as the 'Ladies Castle', this two-story castle perched on a bridge over the River Cher. Constructed in 1513, the castle is defined by an almost uninterrupted succession of women who built, restored and saved it.
What's included: Entrance included Not included: Audio-guide (can be purchased at the destination)
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Suggested activity for day 10 in Rome
Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Authentic Italian Lunch at a restaurant in Campo Di Fiori in Rome
Enjoy a lunch of authentic Italian cuisine in beautiful Campo Di Fiori Square, nestled in the heart of historic Rome. Soak up the atmosphere as you indulge in Italian dishes at a local restaurant.
Suggested activity for day 10 in Rome
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: 09:30 Approx
Physical rating:
Piazzas & Fountains of Rome Excursion
Discover the most symbolic piazzas and fountains in Rome! Visit Piazza Navona, home to Bernini's Four Rivers Fountain and see the Pantheon and the legendary Trevi Fountain. Finally, pay a visit to the famous Spanish Steps at Piazza di Spagna.
What's included: Professional licensed guide and headsets. Not included: Pick up and return to the hotel.
Suggested activity for day 11 in Rome
Duration 03:00h Approx. Pick up time: info at destination
Physical rating:
Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel
Explore the treasures held within the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel! Visit Pio Clementino Hall, Candelabra Gallery, Tapestries Gallery and the incredible Sistine Chapel, among other sights. Also discover St. Peter’s Basilica and St. Peter's Square.
What's included: Skip the line entrance tickets, professional guide, and headsets. Not included: Drop off at hotels. Pick up from hotels outside city center, in this case the meeting point will be Via Santamaura, 28
Suggested activity for day 11
Pick up time: info at destination
Pack of 2 Excursions: Must-sees of Italy
Make the most of your time in Italy with this pack of two unmissable experiences: a Skip-the-line guided tour of Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel and a gondola ride in Venice
What's included: Skip-the-line Guided Tour of Vatican Museums, St. Peter's Basilica and Sistine Chapel & Gondola ride experience in Venice
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Departures from main Canadian airports.
International flights: Canada - Paris; Paris - Rome; Venice - Canada.
Domestic High-speed train in Standard Class: Rome - Florence - Venice Mestre.
15 nights accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.
15 breakfasts.
Airport-hotel-airport transfers included.
Entrance to the most famous Loire valley castles: Chambord, Chenonceau & Amboise and to Mont-St-Michel Abbey.
Air taxes and fuel surcharge.
Sightseeing tour of Paris, guided tour of Normandy World War II landing beaches and guided walking tours in Florence and Venice.
English speaking tour leader from day 4 to day 8***. Guided visit to the Colosseum, Roman Forum & Palatine Hill in Rome.
Cheese factory experience with tasting.
Tax*, meals, drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.
* Accommodation tax must be paid directly to the hotel (Approx. 1,50€ per person per night in France and 6 € per person per night in Italy).
** Transfers from Florence station - hotel, hotel - Florence station and Venice Mestre station - hotel are not included. Distances are short and the hotels are located within a few minutes walk from the train stations, however, they can be added for an additional cost in the next step of the booking process.
See important notes
Documentation of the internal flights will either be available in the "My bookings" section in your "Customer Area" 14 days before your trip or delivered to you on arrival at your destination. It is essential to fill in the passport information correctly for each passenger in the given boxes at the end of the reservations process.
About Italy:
*** Please note: the Italy part of this itinerary is an independent tour, not a group tour. It includes accommodation, some activities and some transfers, but you will not be accompanied by a guide throughout the entire trip, nor will you be traveling in a group. As an independent tour, the dates of the excursions may differ based on the availability of the tours. The final date will be available on the voucher uploaded on your Exoticca account prior to departure.
Train tickets included in the program are in 2nd Class.
Important: please bear in mind that the accommodation included in Venice is located in Venice Mestre, which is situated outside the island, approximately 15 minutes away by train, bus or Taxi.
Important: Download the PDF uploaded to your Exoticca account to check the time and pick up point of the activities.
Useful information
Entry requirements
Valid passport with a minimum of six months validity.
Visa
No visa is required for tourist stays of up to 90 days.
Currency
Euro.
Language
French.
Electricity
230 V. Adapter not required.
Health
There are no mandatory vaccinations.
Time zone
UTC + 01:00.
Other useful information
Taxis do not have a particular colour, however you can spot them at the station or in the street by their luminous lettering on the roof of the car.
Tourist Office website
http://ee.france.fr/
Offer conditions
Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline's website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.
Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.
In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or canceled without prior notice.
If you have reduced mobility/require the use of a wheelchair and prefer to go at your own pace, please contact our customer service team at +1 888-488-0592 or via our contact form.
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