Free standard class return tickets to London from your local station, on selected 2019 European holidays by rail when you book between 15th February 2019 and the 10th May 2019.
From the former homes of two masters, Monet and da Vinci, to the flamboyant excesses of Versailles, this new tour of northern France reveals the historical and cultural gems that stud the Loire Valley.
Meet at our dedicated St Pancras Departure Office before boarding your scheduled Eurostar service to Paris. From the Gare du Nord, you'll take a coach transfer to Vernon, a small town in Normandy. Here you'll enjoy two nights at the Hotel Normandy.
Today it's just a short drive to Giverny, home to the world famous Claude Monet gardens. With entrance to both the house and gardens included, explore the inspiration for his Impressionist paintings such as the water meadow and lily pad speckled ponds that feature in Monet's most iconic work, 'Water Lilies'.
Visit the grand Versailles Palace, opulent former seat of the French royal family until the Revolution. The Palace gardens are equally as impressive and are amongst some of the most recognisable in the world, featuring a web of manicured lawns, extravagant fountains and dramatic sculptures. You'll also take a guided tour around the sumptuous interiors allowing you to see the historically important Hall of Mirrors. Afterwards continue by coach to Rambouillet.
This morning you have a little time to explore Rambouillet, a designated town of art and history, before making the journey to Chartres, famous for its famous Cathédrale Notre-Dame, where you are at leisure. Next continue to Tours, your base for three nights. Discover the largest city in the Loire Valley on Day 5, with a guided walking tour that takes in the Archbishop's Palace, Old City of Tours and Saint Martin's Basilica.
On Day 6 enjoy an excursion to Château de Chenonceau which elegantly spans the River Cher. After looking around the château and its picturesque fountain gardens, travel to Amboise, former site of the French Royal court, for some time at Château du Clos Lucé, final home of Leonardo da Vinci who died here in 1519.
Transfer to Tours' station for the train to Paris. In the capital board your Eurostar service back to London St Pancras.
Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We will write to you around 10 weeks before your departure date with the precise meeting times for your tour group.
Not Included
Please note: This tour may be suitable for reduced mobility passengers, please call for further information.
Explore the historical and cultural gems that stud the Loire Valley
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