Taste your way through France by Rail

Today, take the high-speed TGV train to Dijon and check in for a two-night stay. In the afternoon head to the huge Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy to marvel at the remarkable tombs and other well-preserved historical wonders. Pass by Dijon’s stunning cathedral and give the stone owl a rub for good luck as the locals do, drop by the local market to see some of the local truffles foraged from the nearby woods, or pop into any of the historic mustard shops where it’s served from a tap. (Overnight in Dijon) 

Set off on a half-day, small-group tour discovering the vineyards and wine-producing region of Burgundy. Your first stop is in a traditional, historic cellar, where your expert guide introduces the red and white wines of the region, including Premiers Crus. Afterwards, head to a family-owned vineyard to sample the famous Pinot Noirs over the region and stop in the village of Gevrey-Chambertin on your way back to Dijon. Want to immerse yourself further? Ask your Rail Expert about upgrading to a full-day tour! (Overnight in Dijon) 

After breakfast and any last souvenir shopping, take the two-hour train ride south to Lyon in the Rhone Valley, and on arrival head to your hotel for a one-night stay. Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, and for good reason, with its abundant markets and the authentic and traditional dishes available throughout the city. Explore the Vieux Lyon and Bellecour districts on your own, sampling the iconic cuisine and local delicacies. (Overnight in Lyon) 

Check out of your hotel this morning and board a short train ride over to the Provence region, where you’ll spend two nights in Avignon. After checking in at your hotel for a two-night stay, use your fast-track tickets to explore the famous Palais de Popes, a gigantic gothic palace that nine popes have called home. Continue to the Pont d ’Avignon bridge and enjoy stunning views of the Rhone River. (Overnight in Avignon)

This morning, meet your English-speaking chef in front of the famous Les Halles covered market, where you’ll select all the fresh ingredients needed for your lesson. After a short demonstration, try your hands at the classic techniques, and enjoy the fruits of your labour with your handmade Provencal lunch. The tour continues with a private winery tour with a local guide, visiting two cellars and sampling in each. Return to your hotel in the evening, full of a day immersing yourself in the region’s cuisine. (Overnight in Avignon) 

After breakfast, head to the train station for your journey to Bordeaux. Once you’ve settled in at your hotel, head to the impressive Cite du Vin complex today to discover everything you didn’t know and thought you knew about the world of wine with your included admission. This vast museum and exhibition centre, housed in a wonderfully futuristic building, holds the world’s biggest selection of wine and tells the global story of wine in a uniquely immersive and sensorial way. Visitors can not only taste but also make wine, as well as enjoy spectacular views across the Garonne River and Bordeaux. (Overnight in Bordeaux)

Depart for Saint Emilion with your guide this morning, setting off on a day of wine tasting and exploring multiple wineries. You’ve sampled the Pinot Noirs in Burgundy, and now it’s time to delight your palate with the Chateau Wineries and Merlot red wines. You’ll also have free time to explore the quaint village and do a bit of shopping as well. (Overnight in Bordeaux)

Return to Paris today for your final night in France. Cross any remaining sights off your bucket list, and come the evening, board a river cruise along the Seine. While you’re delighted with a delicious 3-course dinner, admire the way the City of Light illuminates as night falls and watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle. (Overnight in Paris)

Check out of your hotel after breakfast this morning and continue with your travels. If you’d like to extend your vacation to another city, just ask your travel consultant and we can help you make all the arrangements.

Our packages are based on dynamic pricing which means you get the best available rates of the day at the time of booking. Pricing is subject to current availability and pricing may change without notice.

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