Paris

A sightseer’s best friend, allowing entry as many times as you wish to over 60 museums and monuments in and around Paris. Check out the crazy traffic from the Arc de Triomphe, have Mona Lisa’s eyes follow you at the Louvre and imagine times gone by at Château de Fontainebleau. 

With its old iron footbridge, Canal St Martin was made famous in the movie Amelie and is lined with cafés and restaurants and is a great place to hang out. 

For stunning views of Paris. From here you can see all the major sights, and it is far less crowded than the Eiffel Tower. 

Said to be the world’s most visited graveyard and some of the most frequented graves are those of Edith Piaf, Jim Morrison, Chopin and Oscar Wilde. Get a free map on the way at the conservation office just inside the main entrance off Boulevard de Menilmontant.

Not far from the Notre Dame, Saint Chapelle is a spectacular cathedral with the most amazing stained glass windows. 

Problem is that you might miss them if you don’t know where to look. There are plenty of guides that give interesting ideas for self-guided walks. Investing in a set of guide cards or a book is well worth it. The “City Walks” series are great and cost from about $40. If self-guided isn’t for you, your travel consultant has plenty of guided options.

Stroll through charming medieval streets with a foodie guide, popping into the neighbourhood’s best brasseries, boulangeries, and markets to sample French specialties like croissants, cheeses, croque monsieur, chocolates, and macarons, topped off with wine pairings and a secret dish.

Visit all the big-name Champagne houses – Moet & Chandon of Epernay, House of Mumm in Reims and Hautvillers, the birthplace of Champagne pioneer, Dom Perignon. With your expert guide, learn about the intricate Champagne-making process and sample glasses of premium Champagne.

Stroll through the flower gardens of Chenonceau; admire the architecture at the largest of the Loire valley château, Chambord; at Amboise, the home of King Francois 1st and the tomb of Leonardo da Vinci, stroll through the charming village.

Explore two unmissable sights in one day. In Giverny visit Monet’s home and studio and the lush gardens that inspired the artist, then after lunch in the countryside, discover the magnificent Palace of Versailles and enjoy free time in its stunning French-style gardens

Meet at Gare St Lazare and train northwards into the Brittany countryside. Pick up your bike in Vernon and head to the market for picnic supplies, before pedalling down small paths alongside the river to the village of Giverny. Soak up the tranquil atmosphere enjoying Monet’s beautiful gardens.