A Taste of France 2026 – Live with the locals, like a local.

Welcome to France! After checking in to our hotel in Paris, we will get together that evening for a group “Meet and Greet” and an introduction to your tour leader. This is an excellent opportunity to get to know our fellow passengers. The the group will “cheers!” to the start of your unforgettable trip!

As there is not much time in Paris (and to get over the jet lag!), we suggest you arrive a few days early so you can get under the skin of the City of Light.

France Travel Solutions can arrange extra nights' accommodation pre and post tour for those that require more time in Paris.

After breakfast, take a scenic journey to the breathtaking Champagne region. Your day begins with an intimate visit to a family-run vineyard, where you'll gain insight into sustainable winemaking practices and enjoy a tasting filled with rich flavours and tradition.

Next, enjoy free time in Reims, where you can explore at your own pace, savour a leisurely lunch, and visit the magnificent Reims Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture.

In the afternoon, discover the prestigious Avenue de Champagne in Épernay, home to some of the world’s most renowned Champagne houses. Step into the legendary Maison Mercier, where a guided train tour through its vast cellars offers an immersive experience, followed by a delightful tasting.

With bubbles still dancing on your palate, relax as your chauffeur whisks you away to Dijon, where you’ll settle in for the next three nights.

Today, journey into the heart of Burgundy with a visit to the picturesque town of Beaune, the wine capital of the region. Enjoy free time to wander its historic streets, browse local shops, or visit the famous Hospices de Beaune at your own pace.

During our visit, indulge in a tasting at a renowned moutarderie, where you’ll experience the bold flavors of Burgundy’s famous mustard. You’ll also have the chance to sample some of the region’s exceptional wines, savoring the tastes that make Burgundy world-renowned.

After a delightful day of history and gastronomy, return to Dijon for a relaxing evening.

Today is yours to explore Dijon at your own pace, just like the locals do. Start your morning at the bustling Les Halles market, where you can soak up the lively atmosphere, pick up fresh fruits, sample delicious street food, or simply watch the locals go about their daily shopping.

Be sure to visit Mulot et Petit-Jean, a legendary Dijon institution offering traditional Burgundian delights—gingerbread, blackcurrant liqueur, and old-fashioned mustard in unique flavors like red fruits, lemon, and honey.

Take your time wandering through Dijon’s charming streets, discovering hidden gems, elegant boutiques, and picturesque squares. With no schedule to follow, enjoy the freedom to savor this beautiful city at your leisure.

Today we journey out into the world famous Rosé area. We are stepping into Provence, a beautiful place to live. It’s time to settle in, maybe by the pool, or a charming café at your typical lovely countryside guesthouse were you will be warmly welcomed. You will discover all the hidden gems that only locals know about.

First today, we will visit a masterpiece of ancient architecture: the Pont du Gard, a massive 2000 year old Roman aqueduct. It is a milestone of human engineering and one of the greatest monuments of France that stands as a reminder of the tremendous power of the Roman Empire.

You’ll then, stop off in Avignon, where we’ll be able to take a stroll around this historic city. You’ll have the opportunity to visit the Palace of the Popes – one of the most significant medieval buildings in Europe and centre of the Roman Catholic world during the 14th century. You will have the rest of the afternoon and evening to spend as you please. Perhaps seek out a local wine cellar and sample some the of the local Châteauneuf-du-Pape and Côtes-du-Rhône wines – accompanied with a sumptuous French meal, of course!

A perfect combination of scenery and traditional villages, we are exploring in the "massif" (area) of Luberon, the heart of Provence. Some of the most lovely villages to be found in France are here, with a scenic backdrop of cliffs, rocks, olive trees and ancient farms. You'll visit the built and natural heritage meeting the traditions and the know how that forged the character of the terroir and the men.

The L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue Sunday market is the largest outdoor market in the idyllic Luberon massif in Provence. You are diving into the heart of the village's antique shops, flea market, the largest outdoor market in the idyllic markets with colourful and tasty products. Take the time to stroll through pretty cobblestone lanes as we discover the treasures of “ The Little Venice” town which is unlike any other.

We have a long travel day today from Mediterranean to the Atlantic ocean. We will break it up with an astonishing place of discovery: Carcassonne, world heritage site by UNESCO. This magnificent city with its fortress and castle will take your breath away. You will have some free time to explore on your own walking between the ramparts and surveying the lands, you will feel like you are in a movie, maybe because of the Robin Hood movie scenes filmed here!

Your captain at your service!

You'll board a pinasse – a typical wooden boat - to enjoy a tour of the Arcachon Bay including a close-up view of the oyster parks where we will make a stop to taste its famous oysters.

The beautiful Arcachon Bay, “A small, interior sea” opens to the Atlantic ocean backed by a pine forest. A wide, triangular slash, hemmed by picturesque fishermen villages, and punctuated by the incessant come-and-go of the tides, the Bay of Arcachon is an incomparable site that you discover each time for the first time.

With your skipper, you will discover the area ‘like a local’ and learn all there is to know about the traditions and treasures from this beautiful part of France! Famed for its sumptuous seafood, particularly oysters Arcachon bay also has Europe’s longest and highest dune of sand that you will climb for the sport of it or just enjoy the breathtaking view from a delightful restaurant.

Today is your free day to experience Bordeaux however you like! Your tour leader will provide tailored recommendations based on your preferences—after all, this is your holiday, and we want to make sure everyone enjoys their perfect day.

For wine enthusiasts, a visit to La Cité du Vin is a must. This world-class wine museum offers an immersive journey through the history, culture, and flavors of wine across different civilizations.

If art and design are more your style, don’t miss Le Bassin des Lumières, an extraordinary digital art space housed in a former submarine base. Here, breathtaking immersive exhibitions bring masterpieces to life through stunning visuals and music.

Prefer to shop? Bordeaux is the perfect place, with elegant boutiques and charming streets to explore.

For food lovers, Les Halles de Bacalan is a paradise of local flavors. This lively farmers’ market invites you to sample gourmet specialties as you wander from stand to stand, indulging in an authentic Bordeaux experience.

The day is yours—enjoy it your way!

Today, indulge in a truly special and prestigious journey through the world-renowned Médoc wine region. Here, grand châteaux stand as stunning showcases of both the wealth of their owners and the excellence of their wines.

We’ll visit two magnificent wine estates, where you’ll experience exclusive tastings of some of Bordeaux’s most prestigious Grands Crus Classés, along with the characterful Crus Bourgeois and Artisan wines. Nestled in the heart of the Médoc vineyards, we’ll stay in a charming, family-run estate, offering a cozy and authentic experience amidst the rolling vines.

As our journey comes to a close, we’ll gather for one final, heartfelt farewell dinner, lovingly prepared by our wonderful host. This homemade, authentic feast will be filled with warmth, laughter, and cherished memories—a perfect toast to an unforgettable adventure. Santé!

As your journey comes to an end, it’s time to say goodbye to new friends, taking home wonderful memories and countless stories to share.

In the morning, your Tour Leader will ensure a smooth and stress-free transfer to Bordeaux St Jean train station or Bordeaux Mérignac airport, assisting with any last details for your onward travels.

We hope we’ve fulfilled our mission of sharing the beauty of France’s culture and regions, creating a trip filled with laughter, discovery, and unforgettable moments. We look forward to welcoming you again on another adventure! À bientôt!