Planning a Trip to France

Travel to France is high on most everyone's travel wish list. The allure and romance of this destination beckons to us all. The iconic Eiffel Tower, coffee and croissants at a Parisian sidewalk cafe, the architecture of the Arch de Triumph and Notre Dame, the masterpieces housed at the Louvre Museum....these are images each of us dreams of experiencing in Paris.  While Paris is great and usually a "must see" on your first trip to France there is a lot more this romantic country has to offer.

If your family includes a WWII veteran or you are a history buff, you might consider a trip to Normandy.  How about a day trip to the Palace of Versailles or Monet's gardens in Giverny.

Travel further south along the western coast to the Bordeaux wine region. Schedule time for touring and tasting some of the world's finest wines produced in that area. If you plan your visit during harvest you can see the grapes being picked and sorted by hand, learn about the different techniques for pressing the grapes all while smelling the wonderful grape aroma in the air. Learn about the wine classifications and what it takes to earn the Grand Cru or Grand Cru Classe. One of the many "must stops" is a visit to the charming village of St. Emilion for a leisurely lunch. Meals are not to be rushed in Europe so slow down and enjoy the ambiance of the ancient village, it's people and cuisine.
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On the eastern side of France how about cruising down the Saone and Rhone Rivers passing some of the most beautiful French countryside. Maybe a visit to Dijon for a taste of some of it's famous mustard. Visit the Papal Palace in Avignon, sample some Burgundy wine, or perhaps see the amazing color of the lavender fields in Provence.  

If you are a foodie a stop in Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, is a must. Every year Lyon is visited by connoisseurs from around the world just to experience the food.  From quaint sidewalk bistros to Michelin-starred restaurants, traditional Lyonnais food to nouvelle cuisine you will find it all in Lyon just waiting to tantalize your palette.

Your France Travel Planner

The enchantment of France has something to offer for everyone. Don't get overwhelmed when planning a trip to France, Contact Travel with Sonja, your France travel planners, and begin planning your customized France tour! 

Below is a video of some sites of France via river cruise on the Rhoane/Saone Rivers.