Paris | Paris & Bordeaux Rail Tour

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Combine two worlds!   On this 7-day Rail Tour of two of France's most admired regions you will rediscover Paris, known as the City of Love” and the “City of Lights” and Bordeaux, located between the Ocean and at the centre of amazing vineyards and castles.

Day 1: Paris

Upon arrival at Paris  Airport, make your way to your hotel which is located in the centre of town and ideal for exploring the many historic & artistic sites of the city on foot. After check-in, take some time to relax and then perhaps head out on foot to begin your discovery of the 'City of Lights' 

Day 2: Paris

This morning, after breakfast this Paris walking tour allows you to spend an attraction-filled half day exploring the old heart of Paris under the guidance of a local expert. You'll meet your guide in front of the fountain at Place Saint-Michel. From there your guide will take you to the site of Notre Dame explaining its fascinating 850 years of history, secrets and mysteries. See how this historic structure still stands proud after the recent fire and discover what the future holds for this magnificent building. Your Paris walking tour continues in the picturesque lanes of the Île de la Cite and Latin Quarter, where you'll see iconic buildings, like the Conciergerie, and learn about some of the historic personalities that strolled these streets before you. Visit the impressive church of St. Germain l'Auxerrois built in the 13th century. At the end of the tour, you will board a Seine river cruise to enjoy a relaxing ride and enjoy the city from the water. You will have free time for lunch, before reaching the Louvre Museum and meeting your guide. You'll skip the entrance lines and head straight inside for an amazing Louvre tour with your expert guide, including all the highlights of the world-famous collection. In the end, return to your hotel on your own. (B) 

Day 3: Versailles

Today you will explore the magnificent Palace of Versailles with its luxuriant gardens. King Louis XIV, known as “the Sun” was the creative force of Versailles. He turned Versailles into a sumptuous estate and the symbol of absolute monarchy in the 17th century. Your guide will introduce to you the State Apartments with its 8 rooms, the Hall of Mirrors, the King and Queens’ apartments and since July 2006 some new rooms recently renovated, the Royal Chapel and the Royal Opera, then you will explore the Gardens and the Park. (B)

Day 4: Paris | Bordeaux

This morning you will make your way to the railway station to board your high-speed train for a journey or around 2 hours from Paris to  Bordeaux where you will make your own way to your hotel.  In the afternoon, you'll meet your guide in the heart of Bordeaux to enjoy a delicious wine & cheese pairing experience.  (B)  

Day 5: Bordeaux

Between its history, gastronomy, the right bank, the left bank, the many neighbourhoods with diverse atmospheres, the Garonne, the quays… even without getting started on the vineyards… sometimes it can be difficult to decide what to do. Start your day with a fantastic 2-hour walking tour of the city. Discovering Bordeaux on foot is the best way to experience the city’s diversity. The ‘City of The Lumières’, drawn up with a compass by 18th-century architects and town planners, is synonymous with harmony: hôtels particuliers beautiful squares and avenues are spread all along this route that takes you through picturesque areas like Saint Rémi and Saint Pierre quarters. Some of the winding streets have not changed since the Middle Ages. “Blundstone” is present everywhere, including in the sculpted faces that sit atop the city centre doorways, the mascarons. These stand as remarkable examples of art and masonry. The afternoon is free to continue your exploration of the city with your exclusive City Pass. You will be able to explore the city without any limit thanks to your City Pass, which includes access to La Cité du Vin (before 12 pm), Les Bassins de Lumières, Unlimited access to tram, bus, river shuttle and 20 museums and monuments.(B)

Day 6: Medoc & St. Emilion Wines

Today is dedicated to explore one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world and taste its great wines. Meet your driver-guide in the morning and move to the village of Saint Émilion. Begin the tour with the visit of a carefully selected Grand Cru winery that elaborates complex Merlot-based red wines. Then follow your guide on a walking tour of the village. After free time for lunch, move to the Medoc wine region where some of the most famous wineries of Bordeaux are located. Travel along the Château Route through famous appellations such as Margaux, Saint-Julien, Pauillac or Saint Estephe. You will get an introduction to the wines & blends of the left bank in which Cabernet Sauvignon is king. Your day consists of visits and wine tastings in 2 carefully selected Classified Châteaus (wineries) that produce delicious wines.(B)

Day 7: Bordeaux

Today marks the end of your Paris & Bordeaux vacation.   At a time to suit your departing flight or train make your own way to the railway station or airport. (B) 

Working with your travel agent, CIT Tours can extend your tour to include the South of France or wherever takes your fancy.  

Departures

This tour departs Friday, Saturday and Sunday from March 1 through to October 31, 2022