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Northern France Escapes: Châteaux & Coastal Charms

10 Days from $14,090 USD / person

Discover the timeless romance of Northern France, a region where royal châteaux, medieval towns and dramatic coastlines reveal the many layers of the country’s past. Begin in the Loire Valley, where the storybook landscapes of Amboise unfold beneath the towers of Château Royal d’Amboise. Soar above the river, vineyards and forests in a sunset hot-air balloon flight, then step behind the scenes at Château de Chambord on an after-hours tour that brings Renaissance grandeur to life.

Continue to Brittany, where the fortified streets of Vitré and Fougères lead you toward the historic port city of Saint-Malo. Walk its granite ramparts overlooking the English Channel, savor freshly harvested oysters in the fishing town of Cancale, and explore the elegant seaside villas of Dinard and the medieval charm of Dinan. Further along the coast, discover the breathtaking island abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel, rising above its ever-changing tidal bay, before wandering the cobbled streets of Bayeux and tracing the poignant history of the D-Day landings along Normandy’s historic beaches.

On the journey back to Paris, take in the soaring chalk cliffs of Étretat and the Gothic splendor of Rouen, where medieval streets preserve stories of Joan of Arc and centuries of French history. From the Loire Valley’s royal heritage to Brittany’s maritime traditions and Normandy’s remarkable coastline, this is a journey of unforgettable landscapes, intimate discoveries and the enduring charm of France.

Let us help you bring your dream vacation to life. Contact our travel experts for a tailor-made journey through Northern France.

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This itinerary will be customized for you. Please reach out and our experts will work with you to create a journey so unique, it could only be yours.

Ideal For

Beaches

Heritage & Culture

Wine & Food

Sample Itinerary

Day

Place

Hotel Opts

1 – 2

Paris
Highlights: Eiffel Tower, The Louvre & Art Museums, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Versailles

Hotel Rochester Champs-Elysees
Le Grand Hotel Cayre

2 – 4

Loire Valley
Highlights: French Châteaux, Picturesque Towns, Food & Wine

Le Clos d'Amboise
Le Manoir Saint Thomas

4 – 7

Saint-Malo
Highlights: Saint-Vincent Cathedral & Cite d’Alet, Sandy Beaches, Maritime Heritage, Breton Cuisine

Oceania Saint Malo
Le Grand Hotel des Thermes

7 – 8

Normandy Region
Highlights: D-Day Beaches, Regional Cider, Mont Saint-Michel, Monet House

Hotel Tardif
Hotel Villa Lara

8 – 9

Normandy Region
Highlights: D-Day Beaches, Regional Cider, Mont Saint-Michel, Monet House

Les Maisons de Lea
La Ferme Saint-Siméon Hotel & Spa

9 – 10

Paris
Highlights: Eiffel Tower, The Louvre & Art Museums, Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, Versailles

Hotel Le Littre
Hotel Montalembert

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Northern France Escapes: Châteaux & Coastal Charms

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Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 2

1 Night

Paris

Paris is a city of artists, writers and poets, of lovers, dreamers and romantics. Known as the City of Lights, it is home to the Louvre, the most celebrated museum in the world, which houses the Mona Lisa, the most celebrated painting in the world. The Musée d’Orsay, located on the west bank of the River Seine, contains the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces to be found anywhere. Majestic buildings appear everywhere you walk. The Eiffel Tower rises over 1,000ft and is the enduring symbol of the city. The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most beautiful avenues. The Notre Dame Cathedral is a fine example of Gothic architecture, while the Palace of Versailles is a testament to the brilliance of French classical architecture. Then, there is the food. For centuries Paris has been a gastronomic paradise, serving dishes meticulously prepared to the highest standards. It is also an international fashion capital, boasting design houses such as Chanel and Dior, and luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermés, and Cartier.

Included activities

Group Dinner Cruise Premier

Enjoy a unique dining experience aboard an all-glass boat restaurant in Paris. As you step aboard the vessel, you will be greeted by the staff and escorted to your table at the front of the boat. Sip on a glass of champagne and take in stunning views of the River Seine and the city. Then, relish an excellent dinner of gourmet appetizers, mains, cheeses and desserts. Each dish showcases the finest of French gastronomy and is paired with the perfect wine. Tuck into your meal as live music plays in the background. As you dine, watch the city light up as night falls. After the cruise is over, disembark and head back to your hotel.

Hotel options

Hotel Rochester Champs-Elysees – Opt 1

Room Double Classic

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Le Grand Hotel Cayre – Opt 2

Room La Chambre Classic

Meals Bed and Breakfast

Style International

Day 2 – 4

2 Nights

Loire Valley

The UNESCO World Heritage site of the prosperous and fertile Loire River valley straddling Central France is known for its classic French châteaux and grand palaces. The eastern part of the region, is strewn with pretty little French towns, famous chateaux and castle grounds dotting a beautiful countryside. Gastronomic tours are popular with travelers through a region celebrated for its fine cuisine and local wines.

Included activities

Group Sunset Hot-Air Balloon Flight in The Loire Valley

Take to the skies and experience a stunning sunset from a hot-air balloon. At the launch site, receive a safety briefing and see how the balloon is stretched, and inflated with hot air. Get into the basket and take off. Glide above the Loire River, and catch glimpses of the Chateau Royal d’Amboise and Chateau du Clos Luce. As the balloon slowly turns around, enjoy panoramic views of gorgeous buildings amid vineyards, fields and forests. Soak up exceptional landscapes and watch the sky turn into a riot of colors as the sun sets. While your pilot skillfully controls the altitude, observe the ballet of hot-air balloons soaring around you. As the balloonist gradually reduces altitude take in the scenery below. When you are mere feet away from the ground you’ll receive landing instructions. Brace for a gentle impact, as the balloon bounces a bit and then stops, concluding an exciting event.

Private History Tour of Chateau Royal d’Amboise

At the close of the 15th century, a medieval fortress above the Loire River was transformed into one of France’s great royal residences under Charles VIII and Francis I. The court gathered here alongside some of the era’s most celebrated minds, including Leonardo da Vinci, whose remains now rest in the castle’s chapel. This convergence of royal power and artistic ambition left a legacy still visible in every stone corridor and richly furnished hall. A certified château guide leads this private 90-minute visit through the royal apartments and into the underground passages and towers of the medieval fortress beneath the Renaissance residence. These are areas not accessible on a standard visit. The tour concludes in panoramic gardens overlooking the Loire, offering a final, expansive view of the valley below. An exceptional collection of Gothic and Renaissance furniture enriches the experience. Why This is Recommended Explore hidden medieval passages and towers normally closed to visitors, led by a certified château guide. The private tour blends royal history, Renaissance art and sweeping Loire Valley views. Inclusions – Private certified chateau guide – Entrance ticket – Access to underground passages & towers

Private After-Hours Tour of Chateau de Chambord

Commissioned by King François I as a statement of dynastic power, Château de Chambord is one of the defining monuments of the French Renaissance. Its architecture bears the unmistakable influence of Leonardo da Vinci, but after the last visitors have departed, the castle reveals a different character. Silence settles over the stone corridors, and the immense scale of the château becomes unexpectedly intimate. A private guide leads a 90-minute exploration of François I’s royal apartments, tracing the ambition and symbolism embedded in each chamber. Hidden staircases lead through lofts and mezzanines normally closed to visitors, revealing architectural perspectives few ever experience. The tour concludes with a glass of champagne. Why This is Recommended Explore Château de Chambord after hours, when its grand Renaissance spaces take on a quieter, more intimate atmosphere. Hidden staircases and restricted lofts reveal architectural details rarely seen by visitors. Inclusions – 90-minute private guided visit – Access to lofts & mezzanines via concealed staircases – Glass of champagne

Hotel options

Le Clos d'Amboise – Opt 1

Room Traditional

Meals Room Only

Style Heritage

Le Manoir Saint Thomas – Opt 2

Room Double Comfort

Meals Room Only

Style Heritage

Day 4 – 7

3 Nights

Saint-Malo

Saint-Malo is a historic coastal city in northwestern France that was once a notorious pirate base. Today it is the most visited city in Brittany. It offers an enchanting mix of history and natural beauty. Sandy beaches line the city and offer stunning views of the Emerald Coast. The narrow streets of the Saint-Servan district are packed with places of interest. Here you will find the nearly 900-year-old Saint-Vincent Cathedral, one of the city’s iconic landmarks, as well as the Cite d’Alet, a fortified site founded during Roman Times. The Roseraie Sainte-Anne is a medieval-style garden that contains 2,500 roses spread across 150 different varieties. If you enjoy maritime history, visit the Solidor Tower. This 14th-century building houses a collection of scale models, nautical instruments, and other objects that tell the stories of voyages around Cape Horn. You can also visit the Privateer’s House to discover how deals and fortunes were made behind the scenes. Saint-Malo is also home to the Great Aquarium, one of the largest and best aquariums in France.

Included activities

Medieval Brittany: Amboise to Saint-Malo

The road from Amboise to Saint-Malo traces centuries of French history through the landscapes of Brittany. This private transfer transforms a travel day into a thoughtful journey through three of the region’s most atmospheric medieval towns. Vitré comes first, its half-timbered facades leaning over cobblestone streets and its imposing fortified castle rising above the old quarter, its towers remarkably intact after more than six centuries. From here, the route continues to Fougères, home to one of France’s largest medieval fortresses, dramatically perched above a river gorge. The sheer scale of its walls and towers invites you to explore and take in the setting. Rennes follows as Brittany’s regional capital, where timber-framed houses line the historic center alongside grand 18th-century stone buildings, many rebuilt after the devastating fire of 1720. With a private driver throughout, you can linger where the atmosphere draws you in and shape the pace of the journey between each stop. Why This is Recommended Trace Brittany’s medieval heritage through Vitré, Fougères and Rennes, with fortified castles, timber-framed streets, and grand historic architecture along the way. A private driver transforms the journey from Amboise to Saint-Malo into a flexible day of discovery, with time to explore each town at your own pace. Inclusions – Private driver & vehicle – Pickup in Amboise, drop-off in Saint-Malo – En-route sightseeing stops in Vitré, Fougères & Rennes

Private Tour of Cancale with Oyster Tasting

Discover the culinary heritage and coastal beauty of Cancale on this morning excursion. At the designated time, your private driver-guide will pick you up from your accommodation in Saint Malo. Journey to the charming coastal town of Cancale, renowned as the oyster capital of Brittany. Once you arrive, explore the vibrant harbor area. Look out to see the extensive rows of cultivation beds stretching across the tidal flats and take in breathtaking views across the Bay of Mont Saint-Michel. Next, visit a maritime farm. Get an exclusive look into the cultivation process and gain insights into how these delicacies are nurtured from sea to plate. Sample fresh oysters before returning to your hotel.

Private Tour of the Emerald Coast

Explore the coastlines and medieval heritage of Brittany on this private excursion along the Emerald Coast. At the designated time, your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel. Travel first toward Saint-Malo’s spectacular shoreline. Once you reach, climb up its legendary granite ramparts. From a vantage point, take in sweeping views of the English Channel and watch the dramatic shift of some of Europe’s highest tides. Next, journey to the elegant seaside resort of Dinard to appreciate its splendid Belle Époque villas. From there, follow the scenic banks of the Rance River to reach the enchanting town of Dinan. Throughout the day, your guide will offer interesting insights into the region’s seafaring history and architectural heritage. As you travel through the picturesque Breton countryside, pass by historic tide mills, fisheries and impressive mansions. Wind through delightful little fishing villages, including Saint-Suliac, before returning to your accommodation.

Hotel options

Oceania Saint Malo – Opt 1

Room Superior

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Le Grand Hotel des Thermes – Opt 2

Room Double Emeraude Transat

Meals Breakfast

Style International

Day 7 – 8

1 Night

Normandy Region

The name conjures up landmark historical events from the medieval ages down to the 20th century – the famous execution of Joan of Arc, the 11th century Norman invasion of England, everyday medieval life forever captured in the Bayeux Tapestry and images of Allied soldiers landing on its beaches during WWII. Geographically, Normandy’s Atlantic coastline mirrors the chalky cliffs of Dover across from the English Channel. And its very name comes from the Viking ‘Northmen’, who raided England and the North of France in the early ages. The Normandy region, shaped by miles of the Atlantic coast, numerous streams and rivers (including the Seine), has always been known for its rich agricultural and marine produce. It has also been an important center of scholarship and learning, captured by the striking island monastery of Mont St-Michel and the romantic ruins of the Jumièges Abbey. The beautiful capital city of Rouen, the war museums of Caen, and the charming old manor homes of Pays d’Auge are all worth a visit. Normandy’s rich culinary tradition of the finest cheese, seafood, delicious ciders and a bottle of Calvados is also enough to attract travelers from across the world.

Included activities

Private Visit to Mont-Saint-Michel

Rising from the sea on a cone of granite, Mont-Saint-Michel has commanded the Normandy coastline since Benedictine monks began building its abbey in the eighth century. The dramatic tidal bay surrounding it transforms from exposed mudflats to open water with each turn of the tide, isolating the island in a way that has shaped its identity as profoundly as its stone walls. This full-day private journey takes you from Saint-Malo directly to the mount, allowing you to experience its remarkable landscape and history before continuing to Bayeux. A private driver-guide picks you up at your Saint-Malo hotel in the morning. and takes you to Mont-Saint-Michel. Narrow streets wind upward, passing stone façades with the ever-present silhouette of the abbey above. The ascent opens onto sweeping views across the bay, where the tide continually redraws the horizon. Inside the abbey, Gothic stonework can be seen in the nave and cloister, embodying more than a millennium of religious and architectural history. Throughout the visit, your guide provides context rather than a stream of commentary, revealing how the island’s architecture was shaped by the political and spiritual forces of its time. Why This is Recommended Few medieval monuments in France carry the geological drama and historical depth of Mont-Saint-Michel. The combination of tidal landscape, intact medieval streetscape and Benedictine abbey makes this one of Normandy’s singular cultural landmarks. Inclusions – Entrance to Mont-Saint-Michel Abbey – Full-day private tour with driver-guide – E-class vehicle – Parking at Mont-Saint-Michel

Private Walking Tour of Bayeux

Take a deep dive into the history and architecture of Bayeux on this walking tour. Follow your guide through the cobblestone streets on a journey of roughly 1.9 miles, with a few stops along the way. Learn about the origins of Bayeux, around 250 BC, and that of Normandy in the 10th century. Discover half-timbered buildings from the 14th century and mansions from the 18th century. Bayeux is perhaps best known for the Bayeux Tapestry, an embroidered cloth that is nearly 230 feet long and 20 inches tall. The tapestry tells the tale of the events leading up to the Norman Conquest of England in 1066. Your guide will introduce you to William the Conqueror’s family history and explain the context behind the making of the Tapestry. They will also regale you with the story of General Charles de Gaulle’s triumphant first official appearance in Bayeux, just a few days after D-Day. Additionally, you will learn about the many religious congregations that have helped make the city what it is today.

Hotel options

Hotel Tardif – Opt 1

Room Superior Room

Meals Bed and Breakfast

Style Guest house

Hotel Villa Lara – Opt 2

Room Classic Room

Meals Bed and Hot Buffet Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 8 – 9

1 Night

Normandy Region

The name conjures up landmark historical events from the medieval ages down to the 20th century – the famous execution of Joan of Arc, the 11th century Norman invasion of England, everyday medieval life forever captured in the Bayeux Tapestry and images of Allied soldiers landing on its beaches during WWII. Geographically, Normandy’s Atlantic coastline mirrors the chalky cliffs of Dover across from the English Channel. And its very name comes from the Viking ‘Northmen’, who raided England and the North of France in the early ages. The Normandy region, shaped by miles of the Atlantic coast, numerous streams and rivers (including the Seine), has always been known for its rich agricultural and marine produce. It has also been an important center of scholarship and learning, captured by the striking island monastery of Mont St-Michel and the romantic ruins of the Jumièges Abbey. The beautiful capital city of Rouen, the war museums of Caen, and the charming old manor homes of Pays d’Auge are all worth a visit. Normandy’s rich culinary tradition of the finest cheese, seafood, delicious ciders and a bottle of Calvados is also enough to attract travelers from across the world.

Included activities

Private Tour of Normandy D-Day Beaches

Feel the weight of history as you explore Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches. Your expert guide will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the places that featured prominently on June 6, 1944. The D-Day Landings were the largest seaborne invasion in world history, and were the joint effort of British, American and Canadian troops. Visit the Utah and Omaha beaches, which fell under the US zone. See the American Cemetery and the La Cambe German war cemetery, the largest German war cemetery in Normandy. Head over to the British and Canadian zones that comprise Gold, Juno and Sword beaches. Some of the sights to see include Hillman Bunker, Merville Battery Museum and Pegasus Bridge. You can also let your guide know if you would like to see specific zones, and your itinerary will be customized accordingly. Enjoy beautiful views of the ocean from various points along the coastline as well before returning to your accommodation.

Hotel options

Les Maisons de Lea – Opt 1

Room Standard Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

La Ferme Saint-Siméon Hotel & Spa – Opt 2

Room Historical Classic House

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Day 9 – 10

1 Night

Paris

Paris is a city of artists, writers and poets, of lovers, dreamers and romantics. Known as the City of Lights, it is home to the Louvre, the most celebrated museum in the world, which houses the Mona Lisa, the most celebrated painting in the world. The Musée d’Orsay, located on the west bank of the River Seine, contains the largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces to be found anywhere. Majestic buildings appear everywhere you walk. The Eiffel Tower rises over 1,000ft and is the enduring symbol of the city. The Arc de Triomphe stands proudly at the western end of the Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most beautiful avenues. The Notre Dame Cathedral is a fine example of Gothic architecture, while the Palace of Versailles is a testament to the brilliance of French classical architecture. Then, there is the food. For centuries Paris has been a gastronomic paradise, serving dishes meticulously prepared to the highest standards. It is also an international fashion capital, boasting design houses such as Chanel and Dior, and luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Hermés, and Cartier.

Included activities

Chalk Cliffs, Gothic Spires & the Road to Paris

Normandy’s coastline carries its history in stone. At Étretat, white chalk cliffs rise dramatically from the English Channel, their natural arches sculpted by centuries of tidal erosion into forms that captivated Monet and generations of artists after him. Arrive in the late morning to follow the clifftop paths above the sea. Breathe in the salt-tinged air as the shifting light transforms the view across the water. From the coast, travel inland to Rouen, where medieval streets unfold around one of France’s great Gothic cathedrals. A private guide brings the city’s history to life, from the timber-framed streets of the Vieux-Marché quarter and the soaring façade of Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen to the site where Joan of Arc was executed in 1431. Here, centuries of history remain woven into the rhythm of a living, working city. As afternoon light begins to soften, your private vehicle transfers you to Paris, bringing to a close a day that reveals two very different sides of Normandy. Why This is Recommended From Étretat’s sculpted cliffs to Rouen’s medieval streets, this journey reveals Normandy through landscapes and history that have inspired artists and shaped France. A private guide and vehicle bring both destinations into focus, blending dramatic coastal scenery with the stories woven into Rouen’s historic heart. Inclusions – Private transfer from Honfleur to Étretat – Private guided tour of Rouen – Private transfer to your Paris hotel

Hotel options

Hotel Le Littre – Opt 1

Room Double Classic

Meals Breakfast

Style Heritage

Hotel Montalembert – Opt 2

Room Superior Double Room

Meals Breakfast

Style Boutique

What Our Guests Say

“We contacted Enchanting Travel to arrange our Paris trip and tours for us, Elizabeth helped us set up our requirements for our trip and Nitika put the tours and transportation together and was our contact in Paris. The tours, and especially the tour guides for of the Eiffel Tower, Versailles and Louvre were all fantastic. All were very friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and made the tours educational and fun. They also set up all our transportation and it was spot on without any issues. We would highly recommended enchanting travel and their staff to manage your visit to Paris.”

Joseph August, September 2025 Rating 5/5

“We recently returned from a 10-day trip to London and Paris, and Enchanting Travels made the entire experience seamless and unforgettable. Elizabeth handled all of our bookings and excursions with care and attention to detail. During our trip, Vipra was on call and incredibly helpful anytime we needed assistance. She even surprised us with a thoughtful gift and champagne to celebrate our anniversary, such a kind and personal touch! The Enchanting Travels app was also super user-friendly, which made it easy to keep track of our itinerary, confirmations, and documents all in one place. Everything ran smoothly from start to finish. We’ll definitely be booking with them again!”

Katie Ritchie, June 2025 Rating 5/5

“Our trip to France in September was fabulous!! Enchanting Travels did a wonderful job putting together our trip for us. We began the planning stages with Samara Bustamante who listened to exactly what we wanted to accomplish on our two-week trip. She hit the mark regarding the kind of hotel accommodations we expected as well as helping us design a trip which was fun and adventurous while learning France’s deep history. We visited three beautiful cities during our trip — Paris, Lyon and Normandy. We enjoyed tours in each city, a private cooking class in Lyon, traveled the rails from city to city and enjoyed delicious and interesting foods. We enjoyed our tour guides who were all excited to share the history of France at various sites. We learned more about French history than we thought we would. Potnuru Sri Sai Likhit was our contact person during our trip and he did not disappoint. He was responsive each time we needed help. Thank you Likit and Samara, you all made our trip special! Amalia and Kerry-”

Amalia Timbers, September 2025 Rating 5/5

“Enchanting Travels helped make our family trip to France exceptional. We were able to experience this beautiful country without worry, stress, or frustration because of their wonderfully curated itinerary. We cannot wait to travel with them again.”

Heidi Benner, March 2025 Rating 5/5

“We could never have imagined we would have the perfect trip to France, but with Enchanting Travels team, we were able to have the experience of a lifetime. Everything from the hotels we stayed in, the touring experiences, the transportation, the itinerary, and having everything at your fingertips, including the Enchanting Travels concierge was fantastic. We don’t think we will ever try to plan a trip on our own again when we know we can rely on Enchanting Travels to create future amazing travel experiences.”

Anne Calistri, May 2024 Rating 5/5

“First and foremost – A huge shout out to Nurit for how incredible she is! We love her! She, not only listens – truly listens, she is an amazing person and now a friend:) We appreciate her and trust her – which is so important! She was very patient and understanding throughout the process and made things work that we were wanting to do! The entire process is so simple and alleviates so much undo stress that is associated with traveling. You all know the areas – the places to go – where to go and when, etc. The transfers to and from airport, train station, excursions and hotels were a huge help! We will work with you all again and again! Also, Tanisha and team were and are GREAT – they were on top of responding to us when needed throughout the entire trip. Very good about getting right back always! Last minute questions were answered throughout the entire trip and if we needed to adjust anything she and the team were on it! Thank you! Thanks overall for a great trip – we are working on our next one now 🙂 100% recommend to anyone traveling! Tracy and Michayla George”

Tracy George, May 2024 Rating 5/5

What our Guests Say

Northern France Escapes: Châteaux & Coastal Charms

Luxury Travel. Your Way.

Ideal For

Sample Itinerary

Thank You for Inquiring

Sample Itinerary

Day 1 – 2

Day 2 – 4

Day 4 – 7

Day 7 – 8

Day 8 – 9

Day 9 – 10

Paris

Loire Valley

Saint-Malo

Normandy Region

Normandy Region

Paris

Price & Inclusions

Option 1

Option 2

Price Includes

Not Included

What Our Guests Say

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