Paris, Dordogne & Bordeaux - 14 Days

Duration

14 Days

Difficulty
Balanced
Start

Paris

End

Biarritz

Rating

*****

Operator

Tauck

From the historic monuments of Paris to countryside châteaux in the Dordogne, the lush vineyard-studded landscapes of Bordeaux and the seaside scenery of Basque-inspired Biarritz, the cultural riches of France unfold in a romantic rhapsody of traditions, stories and culinary pleasures, distinctively French. Discover a taste of Parisian pastimes, from the days of its Roman origins to the works of 17th-century artists to wine-making secrets and gourmet fare on visits to an acclaimed museum and during lunch at an Eiffel Tower brasserie and a private visit to a centuries-old city vineyard.

Board a fast train to Lyon where dining delights day and night and local landmarks tell stories of daily life, past and present. Stunning pastoral views of hillside villages and volcanoes seduce during a three-night stay in the Dordogne in southwest France, inspiring with a pre-opening visit to Château de Beynac, a private tour of Lascaux IV Caves, replicating the original caves, and a gastronomic dinner by a Michelin-starred chef at Lascaux IV Museum. If you could bottle up the experiences you'll have in Bordeaux, you'd find a bespoke visit to Chateau de Ferrand Grand Cru Classé de Saint-Emilion;, walking tours of wine-making villages, and tasting visits in the Medoc along the Route de Grand Vins. Basque villages, sand dunes and beaches line the seascapes of Biarritz, giving you the opportunity to bask in its coastal charms from your oceanfront accommodations at the former imperial residence of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie, Hotel du Palais. The memories you'll make will be unforgettable.

Itinerary

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Day 1: Arrive Paris

A transfer is included upon arrival from Charles de Gaulle or Orly airport to the Sofitel Paris Baltimore, ideally located steps from the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the elegant Champs Élysées. Join us tonight for a welcome reception and dinner, prepared by a Michelin-starred chef.

Sofitel Paris Baltimore, Paris
Dinner

Day 2: Medieval art & lunch at the Eiffel Tower

Discover the landmark sights of Paris today with a locally guided visit to Musée de Cluny (Le Monde Médiéval) located in the lively Latin Quarter and home to the famous Lady and the Unicorn tapestries. Enjoy lunch amidst stunning views of the city at a French brasserie in the Eiffel Tower. The remainder of the day is free.

Sofitel Paris Baltimore, Paris
Breakfast Lunch

Day 3: Art & wine in Montmartre and a tasting lunch

Drive to hilltop Montmartre today for a morning of sightseeing, choosing to walk along the cobblestone walkways or ride aboard the Petit Train to the start of your walking tour in this artsy village. Visit Musée du Montmartre, set in a 17th-century manor house where local artists, including Auguste Renoir, Raoul Dufy, and Maurice Utrillo would meet to discuss their art. Enjoy a private visit to Montmartre winery, regarded today as the last operational vineyard in Paris. A walking tour follows with stops at local restaurants to sample an appetizer, main course and dessert for a true taste of daily life here.

Sofitel Paris Baltimore, Paris
Breakfast Lunch

Day 4: TGV to Lyon & a feast of Lyonnaise specialties

Board a fast TVG train bound for Lyon this morning, arriving in the culinary capital of France for a tasting lunch at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, where acclaimed chefs shop. Continue to your hotel on the banks of the Rhône and join us this evening for dinner at a local restaurant.

InterContinental Lyon-Hôtel Dieu, Lyon
Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 5: Artisans of Lyon

Discover the artisan sites of Lyon this morning on a culturally inspired sightseeing adventure. In addition to its historic sites and gastronomic pleasures, Lyon is renowned as the world's silk capital with a history dating back more than 2,000 years. Visit a silk weaving workshop to learn about the silk industry firsthand, and explore Les Halles. View the gourmet fare on offer at this famous French market before lunch in a typical Lyonnaise "Bouchon." Your hotel is ideally located in the heart of the city center, steps from landmarks sites and an array of restaurants and shops.

InterContinental Lyon-Hôtel Dieu
Breakfast Lunch

Day 6: Cultural gems in the Dordogne

Drive to the Dordogne, stopping en route in the Auvergne region to view its dormant volcanoes and enjoy a walking tour, cheese tasting and wine pairing lunch in the village of Orcival. Continue on to your hotel in Les Eyzies, located in the heart of the Périgord Noir and a dream come true for its Michelin-starred chef and owner. Many of the dishes you'll enjoy during dinner come from the hotel's onsite vegetable gardens. Bon appétit!

Hotel les Glycines, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireui
Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 7: Château de Beynac, Marqueyssac, and Sarlat

Enjoy an early opening private visit for our guests only to 12th-century Château de Beynac this morning, one of the best preserved and most famous feudal castles in Périgord. Continue to the gardens of Marqueyssac, a historic National Landmark to view its manicured greenery, before an orientation tour of Sarlat with time to explore on your own. This evening, experience the charming town of Les Eyzies, and have dinner as you wish.

Hotel les Glycines, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireui
Breakfast

Day 8: Exploring Madeleine, Les Eyzies and Lascaux

Venture to the lost village of Madeleine this morning for an early opening visit, learning more about the stories behind this prehistoric settlement. Return to the village of Les Eyzies where you can enjoy some free time to explore as you please or do some sightseeing with a local guide. This evening, join us for a privately guided torchlight visit to an exacting replica of Lascaux IV caves, where you'll discover its underground passages on a walking tour, followed by an exclusive private dinner at Lascaux IV Museum.

Hotel les Glycines, Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireui
Breakfast Dinner

Day 9: Medieval Saint-Émilion & Bordeaux

Depart for Saint-Émilion this morning, stopping en route at a 6th-generation, family-owned walnut mill. Walnuts have been a prized crop in this region for centuries, valued not only for their flavour but also for the rich oil they yield, still pressed here using traditional methods. Continue through the heart of wine country for a guided walking tour of Saint-Émilion, followed by free time to explore and enjoy lunch on your own. This afternoon, visit Château de Ferrand in Pomerol for a tour and tasting that reveals the craft and character of the wines produced here. Continue to our hotel in Bordeaux, your base for the next three nights. Dinner is included at the hotel on one evening of your stay, allowing you to choose the night that works best for you.

Intercontinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hôtel
Breakfast Dinner

Day 10: Best of Bordeaux, your way

Explore the beautiful city of Bordeaux on a locally guided sightseeing tour and during free time, by trolley if you wish, to discover the sights on your own. Nestled on the Garonne River, Bordeaux is home to more than 350 historic buildings, monuments, museums and galleries, the multi-level La Cité du Vin center and some of the best food in France.

Intercontinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hôtel
Breakfast

Day 11: The Medoc and the Route des Grand Vins

Travel today along the famed Route des Grands Vins, where vineyard after vineyard stretches to the horizon, and the road passes through some of the Médoc's most celebrated wine-producing estates. Stop at select châteaux for guided visits that share the history, terroir, and winemaking traditions unique to this region, pausing midday for a leisurely lunch paired with local vintages. In the afternoon, board a private ferry to cross the Gironde estuary, arriving at the citadel of Blaye – a strategic stronghold that has guarded this waterway for centuries and is now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to Bordeaux, where the remainder of the day is yours to explore as you wish, perhaps wandering along the riverfront, seeking out local cafés, or simply enjoying the city at your own pace.

Intercontinental Bordeaux - Le Grand Hôtel
Breakfast Lunch

Day 12: Bordeaux to Biarritz

Travel to Biarritz today, stopping en route for a walking tour of seaside Arcachon, famous for being the site of Europe's tallest sand dune, the Dune of Pilat, and for the oyster beds that make the town a haven for seafood lovers. Enjoy lunch here, before continuing to Biarritz in France's Basque country for a two-night stay. Dating to 1854, your palace hotel was once the palatial summer residence of Napoleon III and Empress Eugenie; it overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers stunning views of the Bay of Biscay.

Hotel du Palais Biarritz
Breakfast Lunch

Day 13: Basque villages

Embark on a guided sightseeing drive through the Basque countryside surrounding Biarritz, stopping to sample a taste of daily life and immerse in Basque traditions as you view arts and crafts workshops and more. Join us tonight for our farewell dinner at the hotel.

Hotel du Palais Biarritz
Breakfast Dinner

Day 14: Journey Home

Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Hôtel du Palais to Biarritz Airport. Allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in.  You can, of course, extend your stay.

Breakfast

Includes

  • 13 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
  • Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
  • 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
  • Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary 

Excludes

  • Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
  • Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
  • Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour

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Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

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How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?

A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.

The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.

For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.

The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice. 

Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.

YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.

CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.

What does the tour cost include?

The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Can we book flights through you ?

Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind.  You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.  

Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?

Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.   

Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms

Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.

If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.

For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.

For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.

How much is the solo/single supplement?

Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

How many guests will be on this tour?

Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.

Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.

For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.

How much walking with be on this tour?

With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.

Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs. 

Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs. 

Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.   

Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities

Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms. 

While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience. 

The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.

The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets 

Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?

Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.  

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.

Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.

Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.

We suggest that your insurance covers the following:

  • Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
  • Loss or damage to your property and baggage
  • Loss of cash, credit cards etc
  • Medical costs and personal accidents

Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive. 

Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel. 

Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.

What does a guaranteed departure mean?

A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel. 

In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.

What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.

Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.

Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:

Europe trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.

Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.

Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.

Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc. 

United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:

From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. 

UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.   

USA trips incl transiting travellers: 

US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.

ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website. 

Canada trips:

Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.   

eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.

Rest of the World trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them. 

What if I have mobility issues?

Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.

What if I have food allergies?

Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.

You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.

How much luggage can I bring?

Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).

Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.  

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