Itinerary:
Day #1 Overnight Flight - Bask in the rich heritage and romance of charming France and Bavaria. On this special tour, you will enjoy being immersed in the culture of the region. Your trip includes a ride on the TGV high-speed train through the French countryside from Paris to Strasbourg. Your journey begins with an overnight flight to Paris.
Day #2 Paris, France - Tour Begins - Your tour begins in the magnificent capital city of Paris. Tonight, sample delicious French cuisine and breathtaking views during dinner at the Eiffel Tower. Following dinner, enjoy a romantic Seine River cruise past famous landmarks, against a backdrop of Paris’s glittering skyline.
Day #3 Paris - Your day begins with a panoramic tour of Paris. See the breathtaking architecture of the Arc de Triomphe; the Gothic cathedral of Notre Dame with its lovely rose windows dating to the 13th century; the historic Place de la Concorde and its commanding obelisk from the tomb of Ramses II in Egypt; Place Vendome; and the Champs-Elysées, the famed promenade that is known around the world for its people-watching. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure.
Day #4 Paris - Today you are free to enjoy the city however you would like. Enjoy an optional tour at the Louvre; indulge in some of the world's best shopping on the Champs-Elysees; or simply do as the Parisians do and sit at a sidewalk café and watch the beauty that is Paris go by. This evening you may choose to join an optional dinner show at one of Paris’ oldest cabaret shows. You will enjoy a sumptuous dinner complete with wine, champagne and a delightful cabaret show.
Day #5 Paris - TGV Train - Strasbourg - All aboard the high speed TGV Train as it departs this morning for picturesque Strasbourg in eastern France. Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walking tour of the city featuring the Old Quarter, known as “Petite France,” and the stunning Cathedral of Notre Dame. Tonight, dine at one of Strasbourg’s most historic restaurants, complete with typical regional cuisine.
Day #6 Strasbourg - Alsace Wine Route - Strasbourg - Spend the day visiting two charming villages of the Alsace wine route. You will also have the opportunity to experience some of the region’s most popular wines when you visit a local winery. First is the well-preserved medieval town of Riquewihr, filled with vintners’ houses dating back to the 15th century. Your next stop is Kaysersberg, a village offering historic houses and castles, as well as a 16th century fortified bridge.
Day #7 Strasbourg - Würzburg, Germany - Depart France for Germany this morning and travel to the lovely town of Würzburg. Upon arrival, join a local guide on a leisurely-paced walking tour. This ancient Franconian wine town is rich in historic sights, including the magnificent 18th century residence of the prince-bishops, the Residence Palace, which boasts the largest ceiling fresco in the world. You'll also see the ornate Alte Mainbrucke, the oldest bridge on the River Main. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps you'll choose to join the locals at one of the wine taverns sprinkled throughout the city and enjoy a glass of delicious Franconian wine.
Day #8 Würzburg - Weikersheim - Rothenburg - Würzburg - Today you travel down the Romantic Road to the charming city of Rothenburg. En route, a stop is made in the Renaissance city of Weikersheim. Here you will tour the magnificent Weikersheim Castle, including the Knight's Hall and the formal gardens, which were modeled after the spectacular gardens at Versailles. Then continue on to Rothenburg where, upon arrival, you will take a short walking tour through the winding, cobblestone streets of the old town. You'll feel as though history has come alive as you walk past buildings and walls that have watched over this city for centuries.
Day #9 Würzburg - Bamberg - Würzburg - Travel into the heart of Franconia for a visit to a local winery. Learn about the rich wine-making heritage of this region and sample some of the wonderful local varieties. Next, depart for the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg. Bamberg is known for its beautiful old town which is veined with waterways reminiscent of Venice and capped by a gorgeous cathedral perched high above the city. Enjoy plenty of time at leisure to explore the attractions of this wonderful city. Visit the ancient Town Hall which is situated in the middle of the river and accessible only by bridge. Then, stroll the charming streets that line the river, shopping for unique handicrafts or perhaps stopping to try a glass of Bamberg's renowned "smoked" beer. Tonight, join your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner to celebrate this memorable trip.
Day #10 Würzburg - Tour Ends - Your tour ends today in Würzburg.