Rick Steves France Tours: Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley & More

France Tours: Unveiling the Riches of Paris, Normandy, Loire Valley, and Beyond

France is a country of endless allure, from the Parisian boulevards and café terraces to sun-soaked Mediterranean towns and rolling Burgundy vineyards. Traveling through France with a curated tour brings together world-class art, breathtaking landscapes, gastronomic excellence, and layers of history. Rick Steves’ France tours offer thoughtfully designed routes that combine the must-see sights with authentic regional experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the true heart of the country.

Tour Options: Guided and My Way® Independent Travel

Rick Steves offers two distinct France itineraries to suit different travel preferences:

• Paris & the Heart of France in 11 Days Guided Tour: A fully guided journey through Paris, the Loire Valley, Normandy, and more, featuring expert-led sightseeing, group transportation, included meals, comfortable lodgings, and exclusive cultural experiences.
• My Way® France in 13 Days: An “un-guided” package with arranged hotels, transportation, and a tour manager for logistics support, but no daily group sightseeing — ideal for those seeking structure with greater independence.

Paris & the Heart of France in 11 Days

Start and end: Paris
Highlights: Explore Paris’s grandeur, Loire Valley châteaux, Normandy’s historic coast, and charming villages, all with the guidance of experts.

Key Destinations and Experiences

• Paris: Guided walking tours reveal architectural splendor, including Sainte-Chapelle, vibrant neighborhoods, and the art treasures of the Louvre Museum.
• Loire Valley: Visit exquisite French castles like Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau, set amid lush countryside.
• Brittany and Normandy: Discover the half-timbered villages of Brittany, the ethereal island and abbey of Mont St-Michel, and delve into the poignant history of the D-Day beaches — including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, Sainte-Mère-Église, and the American Cemetery.
• Cultural Gems: Wander the Bourges Cathedral, sip local ciders in Normandy, explore vibrant markets, and witness medieval craftsmanship at Château de Guédelon in Burgundy.
• Scenic Wonders: Experience the dreamy impressionist colors of Monet’s gardens at Giverny and the bucolic landscapes that inspired artists and writers alike.

What’s Included

• At least 12 organized sightseeing events led by expert guides
• Small groups (typically 24–28 travelers) for a more personal experience
• Full-time professional guide and local specialists
• All group transportation from Paris round-trip
• 10 nights in centrally located, carefully selected hotels
• Daily breakfast and five additional group meals
• All tips for guides and driver, a comprehensive tour kit, and a guaranteed tour price once you book
• Exclusive tour alumni discounts and flexible rebooking policies

Not Included

• Personal drinks, free-time sightseeing, and optional activities are at your own expense

My Way® France in 13 Days

Start: Paris  |  End: Nice
Perfect for: Independent-minded travelers who want transportation and lodging logistics handled but wish to set their own daily itinerary.

Destinations Along the Route

• Paris: Majestic sights, artistic treasures, and the legendary streets of the City of Light.
• Loire Valley: Renaissance castles, river walks, and delectable cuisine.
• Lyon: France’s gastronomic capital with vibrant markets and old town charm.
• Annecy or Chamonix: Alpine scenery, lakeside strolls, and mountain adventure.
• The French Alps: Breathtaking peaks, fresh air, and endless outdoor activities.
• Pont du Gard: A marvel of Roman engineering and a picturesque river setting.
• Arles: Roman ruins, Van Gogh heritage, and lively southern spirit.
• Nice: The bustling heart of the Côte d’Azur, with sun-drenched beaches and sophisticated Mediterranean flair.

Features and Flexibility

• No daily group sightseeing — choose your own pace and points of interest every day
• A dedicated Rick Steves tour manager handles transportation, accommodations, and provides travel support and suggestions
• All ground transportation from city to city, along with 12 nights in centrally located hotels
• Daily breakfast, all tips for manager and driver, plus a curated travel kit
• Special resources like the Free Audio Europe™ app with walking tours and insider interviews

My Way® Reviews: What Travelers Love

• Pont du Gard: A “wow” moment for its grandeur and setting
• Arles: Following Van Gogh’s footsteps
• Lyon, Annecy, and Nice: Wandering historic quarters and enjoying the rich atmosphere
• Paris highlights: From Sainte-Chapelle to the sparkle of the Eiffel Tower at night, each experience is unique
• Chenonceau: Its beauty and history evoke a sense of wonder

Travel Skills: Making the Most of Your France Tour

France’s regional diversity means each stop offers different customs, flavors, and sights. Here are tips and skills for making the most of your journey:

• Travel Light: Mobility is key, especially in bustling cities and historic old towns with cobbled lanes.
• Taste the Regions: Try local specialties — Brittany crepes, Normandy cider, Loire Valley cheeses, Burgundy wines, and Provençal herbes and olive oil.
• Embrace the Pace: The guided tour offers a carefully balanced blend of sightseeing and relaxation; the My Way® option lets you linger where you like.
• Language: Learning a few French phrases enhances every interaction and opens doors to local hospitality.
• Respect Traditions: From market etiquette to dress codes in churches, a bit of local know-how goes far.

Highlights by Region

Paris: The City of Light

• Marvel at world-renowned art in the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay
• Stroll along the Seine, through the Marais, and atop the Eiffel Tower
• Admire architectural gems like Sainte-Chapelle and the Gothic splendor of Notre-Dame

Loire Valley: Castles and Countryside

• Explore fairytale châteaux, including Chambord and Chenonceau
• Wander manicured gardens and riverside villages

Normandy: D-Day and Coastal Magic

• Reflect at Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery
• Visit Mont St-Michel, a tidal island crowned by a magnificent abbey
• Sample Normandy’s famed cider with local visits

Brittany: Old-World Charm

• Experience half-timbered towns, fresh seafood, and energetic coastal winds
• Discover folklore and Celtic-influenced traditions

Burgundy: Of Vineyards and Medieval Wonders

• Stroll through historic villages and rolling vineyards
• Visit the Château de Guédelon, a living medieval construction project

Provence: Sun-Kissed Markets and Roman Heritage

• Savor olives, lavender, and the relaxed lifestyle
• Explore Arles, Avignon, and the remarkable Pont du Gard

The French Riviera: Coastal Glamour

• Swim in the azure Mediterranean off Nice
• Stroll dazzling promenades among palm trees and pastel architecture
• Enjoy world-class art, shopping, and open-air cafés

Table: Comparing the Two Major France Tours

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Which regions of France are included in the tours?

A: Rick Steves’ tours cover Paris, Loire Valley, Normandy, Brittany, Burgundy, Provence, and the French Riviera. The guided tour focuses on the north and west, while the My Way® tour also includes Lyon, the Alps, and Nice on the Côte d’Azur.

Q: What is the group size for Rick Steves’ France tours?

A: Group sizes are small, typically between 24 and 28 people, allowing for a friendly, more personal travel experience.

Q: How are meals handled on tour?

A: All tours include daily breakfast. The guided tour also includes five additional group meals; otherwise, you are free to choose local restaurants and explore regional cuisine independently.

Q: Are the tours suitable for solo travelers?

A: Yes. Both tours are designed for solo travelers, couples, and groups. A single supplement is available for those wishing to have a private hotel room, or you may request a roommate through the program.

Q: Is there flexibility to customize the trip?

A: The guided tour has a set itinerary with scheduled sightseeing, while the My Way® tour grants you full flexibility over daily activities, making it ideal for repeat visitors or those wanting a more independent experience.

Practical Tips for an Enriching France Experience

• Book early for best pricing and preferred dates; tour prices are guaranteed at the time of deposit.
• Bring comfortable walking shoes, as many sights are best explored on foot.
• Embrace French culture by learning basic greetings and mealtime customs.
• Leave space in your bag for regional treasures: wine, lavender, cheese, and more.
• Be open to spontaneous moments, from sidewalk café breaks to pop-up street performances.

Your French Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of Paris, majestic castles, rugged coasts, or sunlit Provençal markets, a guided or independent Rick Steves tour offers a holistic French adventure. With expertly crafted itineraries, immersive cultural encounters, and the support of passionate travel professionals, discover France not just as a destination, but as a living, breathing story that you become part of.