• Arc de Triomphe, Paris, France
    Arc de Triomphe in Paris
  • Sainte-Chapelle in Paris
  • Château de Chenonceau
  • Amboise, France
    Amboise
  • Mont St-Michel
  • Bayeux Tapestry, Bayeux, France
    Bayeux Tapestry
  • Norman coastline, France
    Normandy Coast
  • 'Ever Forward' memorial statue, Omaha Beach, Normandy, France
    D-Day Beaches
  • Claude Monet's Garden, Giverny, France
    Giverny

Tour Questions? See our FAQ | Email [email protected]

Paris & the Heart of France in 11 Days Tour

On a route that strings together an all-star collection of Rick's favorite places in and around the City of Light, your expert guide will bring you the very best of Paris along with its most stunning surroundings: the Loire Valley's exquisite châteaux, Brittany's half-timbered villages, Normandy's magical Mont St-Michel and stirring D-Day beaches, Monet's dreamy gardens at Giverny, the stained-glass wonders of Bourges Cathedral, and a medieval castle being built today in Burgundy — using lots of muscle and 13th-century technology. Join us for Paris & the Heart of France in 11 Days!

Dates & Prices

Sorry, we're not able to access departure availability at this time due to heavy traffic on our website. Please wait several minutes and try again -- and thank you for your patience.

What's Included

You'll get at least 12 group sightseeing events — at no extra cost!

Here's what you'll see and do on this 2024 tour of France:

  • Historic Paris walking tour
  • Sainte-Chapelle
  • Paris neighborhood walk
  • Louvre Museum
  • Château de Guédelon
  • Bourges walking tour and Cathédrale St-Étienne
  • Château de Chambord
  • Château de Chenonceau
  • Mont St-Michel and abbey
  • Bayeux Tapestry
  • D-Day tour (American Cemetery at Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and Sainte-Mère Eglise)
  • Monet's gardens at Giverny

Plus you'll get all this, too.

  • A small, friendly group of 24–28 people — half the size of most tour groups
  • Full-time services of a professional Rick Steves guide and local experts who will make the fascinating history, art, and culture of France come alive for you
  • All group transportation from Paris to Paris
  • 10 nights' accommodations in memorable, centrally located hotels
  • All breakfasts and 5 other meals
  • All tips for guides and driver
  • A tour kit including a guidebook (when available) and a moneybelt
  • Guaranteed tour price, locked in the moment you make your deposit
  • Tour alum discount of $50 for each tour you've taken with us
  • Flexibility should you need to transfer or cancel your tour

Fine print: You are responsible for the cost of your drinks and free-time sightseeing. See our Tour Conditions for important details regarding everything listed above.

Group sightseeing events subject to change.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Paris

We'll meet at 5 p.m. at our hotel for a short "bienvenue à Paris" meeting. Then we'll take an orientation walk through our neighborhood, followed by time to get acquainted over dinner together.

Light walking: 2–4 miles throughout the day on mostly level terrain. No bus. Sleep in Paris.

Day 2: Historic Paris and Sainte-Chapelle

Let's begin where Paris did, on the Ile de la Cité. Your guide will lead a walking tour of the city's early history, including a pair of Europe's most significant medieval Gothic churches — the legendary and resilient Notre-Dame Cathedral and the exquisite Sainte-Chapelle — along with a stroll through the bohemian Latin Quarter. This afternoon, you'll be free to explore more of Paris, including the world's greatest collection of Impressionist art — from Monet and Degas to Cézanne and Gauguin and more — at the Orsay Museum.

Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. No bus. Sleep in Paris.

Day 3: Neighborhood Paris and the Louvre

This morning we'll take a more intimate look at Paris and what gives the French their joie de vivre with a promenade through one of your guide's favorite Parisian neighborhoods. Then we are off to the Louvre Museum. With your smartphone in hand and the Rick Steves Audio Europe™ app, Rick's voice will guide you through timeless treasures including the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo, and hundreds more. Your afternoon will be free to be inspired by Monet's incredible Water Lilies at the Orangerie, perplexed by whimsical water fountains and modern art at the Pompidou, or compelled to climb to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, followed by a classy stroll along the Champs-Elysées.

Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. No bus. Sleep in Paris.

Day 4: Medieval Guédelon and Bourges

Today we'll leave Paris and head for the Château de Guédelon — a medieval castle being built today in Burgundy using 13th-century materials and techniques. Local experts may give us a close-up look at masons cutting limestone, sheep being sheared, and blacksmiths at work. Then we'll drive past farms, forests, and vineyards to the overlooked town of Bourges. Once we arrive we'll wander along the cobbled lanes and medieval half-timbered houses on a walking tour with a local guide. Our tour will culminate with a visit of Bourges' Cathédrale St-Etienne, where we'll learn how to read some of France's most remarkable and original medieval stained glass before having dinner together this evening.

Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 5 hours. Sleep in Bourges.

Day 5: The Loire and Chambord

Today we'll head for the biggest and brightest of the Loire Valley châteaux — Chambord — where 365 fireplaces warmed royal hunting parties for more than 500 years. We'll have ample time to visit this magnificent château, its expansive grounds, and find some lunch. A bit farther up the road, our own Loire Valley accommodations will be every bit as French, but a little more down-to-earth. Dinner together tonight.

Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 4 hours. Sleep in the Loire Valley.

Day 6: Chenonceau and Amboise

This morning we'll visit the elegant, river-straddling, 16th-century Château de Chenonceau. We'll learn more about royal life in France and have plenty of free time to roam its opulent interior and gardens. This afternoon you'll have time on your own in Amboise to find lunch and sightsee. You can choose to visit Leonardo da Vinci's home, Clos-Lucé, and marvel at the working models of the Renaissance Man's cleverest inventions; tour Amboise's cliff-hanging castle; or wander the pleasant pedestrian-friendly streets.

Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 1 hour. Sleep in the Loire Valley.

Day 7: Brittany and Mont St-Michel

We'll depart the Loire Valley this morning and make a beeline to Brittany. We'll stop for lunch and a walk through a quintessential Breton town, where we'll learn about the Bretons' Celtic origins. Later this afternoon, we'll take a short drive to the timeless, picture-perfect island of Mont St-Michel. We'll arrive as the tourist tide recedes, ensuring a less crowded experience here. We'll share dinner together and stay on the Mont itself.

Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 5 hours. Sleep on Mont St-Michel.

Day 8: Treasure of Bayeux

This morning we'll take a walking tour of Mont St-Michel's town and its towering abbey to learn about local legends, monastic life, and the far-reaching influences exerted by abbeys in French history. Then we'll drive into the heart of Normandy to study the 1,000-year-old Bayeux Tapestry — a 70-yard-long embroidered cartoon/work of art that brings to life William the Conqueror's victory over the Anglo-Saxons at the Battle of Hastings in 1066.

Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. Bus: 2 hours. Sleep in Normandy.

Day 9: Normandy's D-Day Beaches

We'll spend the day with a local expert who will give us a powerful tour of the Normandy beaches where, in June of 1944, the Allied D-Day landings took place by sea and air. We'll visit Pointe du Hoc, where Army Rangers scaled the cliffs in pre-dawn darkness, and the American Cemetery, where 10,000 stark white markers memorialize the Americans who gave their lives on the beaches below. We'll also visit the strategic town of Sainte-Mère Eglise, the airborne drop site made famous by The Longest Day and Band of Brothers. We'll return to our Normandy home base in time for dinner on your own.

Strenuous walking: 2–8 miles throughout the day with lots of hills, stairs, and uneven terrain. Bus: 2 hours. Sleep in Normandy.

Day 10: Monet's Gardens at Giverny

We'll depart early this morning to visit Monet's beautifully preserved, masterpiece-inspiring gardens in the town of Giverny. In addition to the serene ponds made famous by Monet's paintings, we'll also see his house, studio, and Japanese garden. After free time for lunch, we'll make our way back to Paris and a farewell feast together tonight, where we'll share travel memories and toast new friends. Santé!

Moderate walking: 2–6 miles throughout the day with some hills and stairs. Bus: 4 hours. Sleep in Paris.

Day 11: Tour Over After Breakfast

Breakfast is provided, but there are no group activities today. It's a breeze to reach Paris' airports by taxi, shuttle, or public transportation. Your guide will help you with any post-tour planning, leaving you well prepared for the road ahead. Merci et au revoir!

(This tour does not include the Eiffel Tower. To avoid its long lines, we recommend booking tickets several weeks in advance. For details, see our Eiffel Tower ticket tips for tour members.)

Itinerary specifics subject to change.

Physical Demands

Our tours are physically active! It's an essential part of the Rick Steves tour experience. On our Paris & the Heart of France in 11 Days tour — among other things — you'll need to happily…

  1. Carry/roll your luggage over uneven pavement (possibly several blocks) and up stairways to reach your hotel, then up several flights of stairs to reach your room.
  2. Be on your feet, walking and standing, for up to three hours, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions.
  3. Sleep with street noise and no (or weak) air conditioning.
  4. After orientation and transportation lessons, be able to navigate towns and cities on your own.

Reviews

Robert

Tour: 07/12/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great guide, great itinerary, great hotels, great meals, great bus driver, just really great!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Have the highest room available on Le Mont St Michel with an outdoor patio. Fabulous view and a WOW moment"

Carl

Tour: 07/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my fourth Rick Steves' tour, but the first for my wife and stepdaughter. I tried to explain the 'Europe Through the Back Door' way before going, but once they started experiencing it, they were thrilled. Julie was a great guide, and treated us all as friends. She let us in on her experiences as an American in France - the compare and contrast. We watched the French snap election through her lens, and she helped us understand the difference in the July 4th vs. Juillet 14 celebrations

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The whole thing. Loved seeing Guédelon as a precursor to Loire. Especially liked feeling confident to do the extra things Julie pointed us to: Following the blue light walking tour at night in Bourges; seeing the market alive in Montparnasse; going up to the abbey at Mont St. Michel early in the morning to listen to the monks and nuns sing in an ancient private chapel (heavenly!); Watching Bastille eve fireworks in Bayeux and fireworks off the Eiffel Tower on the 14th with young Parisians."

Debra

Tour: 06/28/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour - the heart of France was wonderful. We were there during the elections. Our guide Arnaud was so good at helping us understand how the election process works in France.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our wow moment was in Amboise at a little shop. We met an elderly shop owner who shared family stories - he, his father and grandfather all were artist. He showed us his grandfather's art work from the WWI."

Gary

Tour: 06/28/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 4th tour and probably the most interesting for my part. Arnold was exceptional...... He made the experience truly gratifying and made us one big family with his personality.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy"

Paul

Tour: 06/28/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great time seeing places in Northern France.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"D-Day beaches. Our local guide was fantastic. "

Linda

Tour: 06/28/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour was fabulous because our guide Arnaud was the absolute best. His humor, fund of knowledge, and expertise are unparalleled in our travel experiences.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite wow moment was walking on Pont du Hoc. A close second was walking up and on Mont Saint Michele."

Linda

Tour: 06/28/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

As with our past RS tour, the leader, other members of the group and choice of places to visit were excellent.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michel. I've wanted to visit since I was in high school. My first sight was my "wow" moment, but being able to stay on the island overnight, be awoken by seagulls outside my window, and attend the Abby service early in the morning went well beyond my expectations."

Efren

Tour: 06/28/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We really enjoyed the way the tour tries to immerse you in the experience. Whether it was handholding us through taking our first Metro trips in Paris, staying at small hotels that represented the neighborhoods and towns we were in, and teaching how to get more out of our experience. I can't say enough about our tour director Arnaud and busdriver Jacque. You could tell there was quite a lot of thought and planning that went into all details of our tour, and it was very much appreciated! Thanks!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really enjoyed Arnauds talks during our busrides about what it is like to live in France. It truly added a lot to the tours and gave us a better understanding of the French people, their views, passions, how they make their living, their likes, dislikes, etc. I felt much less like a tourist visiting it's sites and more connected to the country and it's people."

Traci

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The itinerary had a good flow and was well thought out. Jerome, our guide, was good natured, competent, and patient. Our group was fun.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visiting Mont Saint-Michel was a bucket list item for me, and staying in a room 15 feet away from the Abbey was unforgettable. I loved coming to the island as the tourists were leaving and then leaving the next day as they were arriving again."

Ross

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This is my second RS tour - and it will not be my last. Everything about the experience is top-notch. My wife and I loved our tour. Jerome (our lead tour guide) was amazing and took care of all of us.Gued

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Guedelon. Seeing the making of a relatively small castle really made the experience of going into the different cathedrals and buildings all the more impressive. Oh, and it would be criminal not to mention Mont St. Michel."

Sharon

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

We got to see a lot of different places across 10 days and that was a good introduction to France. We started our tour on 6/21 and got to experience music fest in Paris.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mount St Michel and stops in various small towns. Music Fest in Paris on 6/21 was a treat. "

Michael

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Outstanding tour director, Jerome. Outstanding local guides. Outstanding transportation director (Jan) Itinerary was well planned and executed with very few glitches. Hotels were centrally located and average to slightly above average. Meals were great. Tour group was very cohesive with everyone really meshing well.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy and Mont St Michel"

Tracy

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This is my second Rick Steves tour. I love the tours and all that you learn while on them.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There are so many great moments! My favorite was staying overnight at Mont St Michel."

Mitchell

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The Paris and the Heart of France was a great way to experience France for a first timer. It exposes you to Paris and different parts of France on your way to Normandy. It would have been good to have more time in Bourges and Fougeres. A couple of hours is not enough to explore the cities, especially when places do not really open before 10 (Bourges) or when lunch (Fougeres, restaurant meals take at least 1 hour) is part of your free time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing and staying at Mont-Saint-Michel was incredible as well the visit to Normandy."

Quinn

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

The locations and activities we did everyday were fun and interesting with a lot of them being filled with history. There was also a good amount of freetime and the people on the tour were nice people. However the food choices could have been better.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite activity on the tour was the chateau where they made wine because the area was very scenic and the whole wine and cheese tasting experience was new. The people there were also very friendly and nice."

Maryann

Tour: 06/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was filled with authentic experiences that truly deliver the flavors and personalities of each region. The attention to detail made every day a delight. We visited all of the important highlights with ease thanks to our guide’s incredible organizational skills. We could never have accomplished so much on our own; however, the tastes, the people, the moments where skillfully sprinkled throughout making this so much more than sightseeing. This trip was astonishing, beyond beyond.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mt. Saint Michel was indescribable. Spending the night on the island delivered a quiet moment in the morning to drink in the beauty before attending morning prayers, sung by the nuns and monks, at the top of the Abby. Need I say more . . . When we arrived at our beachfront hotel in Normandy, I was overwhelmed by the beauty and intensity of its history. The artificial harbors are still visible in the surf, astonishing. Standing on the beach, watching children play, united past and present."

Candra

Tour: 06/18/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Outstanding

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St Michel "

Kathy

Tour: 06/18/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was everything I hoped for and much more. Our guide Rebecca was so energetic, engaging and informative. The itinerary, while full, was compelling and wide-ranging. The local guides were all amazing. My tour members made for a small and compatible group. The days sped by, and each day was followed by another fantastic set of experiences. I was so sad to see the tour end.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Impossible to choose. Guedelon, even in the pouring rain. Chambord and then Chenonceau! Touring Leonardo da Vinci's home and studio. St. Chapelle's stained glass. The light show on the monument in Bourges. Travelling through the Loire Valley, stopping for lunch and a hike in Fougeres. Staying on Mont-St.-Michel and attending the early morning service in the abbey. Of course, the D-Day beaches and the American Cemetery. Not to mention Paris readying for the Olympics."

Alicia

Tour: 06/18/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was everything I had hoped it to be and then some. It was an amazing trip with some many wonderful things to see, eat and experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"If I had to pick my "wow" moment I would say Monet's gardens and home. Mont-Saint-Michel and Clos Luce were my other favorites."

Paul

Tour: 06/18/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My wife and I experienced a fabulous tour of Paris and northern France. It was well-planned and well-led. So many wonderful memories and a great experience of French culture.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Favorite moment was our stay at Mt. San Michel. To have such a wonderful view of the tides from our room and to walk around and tour the Abbey when there were few other visitors was extraordinary. Visiting the morning services in the Abbey was spiritually uplifting and an experience of pilgrimage we did not expect."

Deborah

Tour: 06/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Paris & The Heart of France Tour exceeded my expectations! I loved the choices of varied locations, the sweet accommodations, and the wonderful care and and instructions we received from our lovely guide, Guillaume. I was grateful for both his knowledge of history, and how he took care of us with such kindness and grace. Jacques was a superb driver, and also added so much to our tour with his excellent driving skills and wonderful sense of humor. I could take this same tour again!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont St. Michel for the first time, and being able to have dinner and stay on the Mont!"

Gary

Tour: 06/14/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We saw much more of France than we would have been able to do if we navigated it on our own. The meals were plentiful and enjoyable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It's hard to pick one, but I'd have to say Mont St. Michel. Being there overnight was beyond memorable. Seeing the sunset and being outside early in the morning were sights that most travelers never experience. The D-Day experience was also thorough and important, and I loved just being in Amboise."

Dennis

Tour: 06/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Seeing some of the most amazing castles. Getting to the Chateau De Chenonceau before it opened was an excellent opportunity to avoid the crowds.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont Saint Michel"

Adam

Tour: 06/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was terrific. The stops, the guide, the bus, the visits were all top notch.

Abigail

Tour: 06/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I loved the balance of this tour between Paris and the rest of France. Amboise, Mont St. Michel, Normandy, and Paris all helped me feel like I got to know and appreciate France as a whole. Chambord and Chenonceau are day trips that I would have liked more time to explore since these were some of my favorite places and we only got about 2 hours at each. The meals included with this tour were incredible. Of the three Rick Steves tours I've gone on, this was my favorite itinerary.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michel. I loved being on the mont with fewer crowds and at a time of day when I could truly witness the change in tides that Mont St. Michel is known for. Visit and staying at this place was a deciding factor in determining which tour to take, and the magic and beauty of it did not disappoint."

Kyla

Tour: 06/11/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Okay… overall experience was less than the initial expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Eiffel Tower that I made a visit in one of the nights while staying in Paris."

Carol

Tour: 06/11/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I appreciated knowledgeable guides who were entertaining as well as informative, interesting itinerary, comfortable hotels and good food, good advice for traveling on our own during free time, and careful timing of visits to popular tourist destinations to avoid large crowds. I liked the walking tours of the Montparnasse and Latin Quarter neighborhoods.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several - stained glass at Sainte-Chapelle, discovering how impressive and overwhelming the Lourve was, and the gardens at Giverny."

Clifford

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Trip events maximized the experiences without pushing or rushing through events.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Personally for me was the Eiffel Tower."

Stephanie

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Terrific! This being my 4th RS tour, I can say that I’ve found the quality of each tour experience consistently high (why I keep coming back!) I appreciate this overall standard of excellence and the carefully planned itineraries that provide rich and meaningful experiences, e.g, even on days with a lengthy bus ride - we’re not merely traveling from point A to point B, but stopping midway for interesting and educational experiences such as Medieval Guedelon.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Tough question to answer because each activity touched me in different ways - from standing in the room at Clos-Luce where Leonardo da Vinci fleshed out his ideas to walking through Monet’s gardens where I felt as if I stepped into one of his paintings to the deeply moving day long tour of the D-Day beaches... I could go on and on!"

Beth

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The HOF tour was outstanding: a terrific tour guide, congenial tour group, competent bus driver, a good mix of planned activities and free time, wonderful food and accommodations, and excellent local guides. I particularly enjoyed seeing the beautiful French countryside and smaller towns.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"That would have to be the day we spent with an excellent local guide at the D-Day beaches and the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach. Such lovely peaceful places now, but the sites of such horrific fighting as the Allies began to push the Germans out of France. A poignant and moving experience."

Karen

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This trip was a long time coming. I promised my granddaughter, when she was 7 years old, that if she did well in school I would take her on a trip anywhere she wanted to go. She immediately chose Paris. 10 years later she finished top in her class and it was time to plan a trip! I chose a Rick Steves Tour because I had no idea how to navigate a trip of that magnitude on my own. Also, his philosophy on travel was similar to my own. Ease, history, art, food, architecture,,, they were all covered!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Watching my granddaughter explore part of the world she had only dreamed about was magical! To pick one wow moment would be impossible. Everywhere we went created its own memories. From prayer services we chose to partake of on Mont St Michelle to watching the flags being lowered at Normandy to simply navigating the streets of Paris and landing at a lovely cafe and having a delicious meal and truly seeing how the Parisians live. Savoring violet ice cream in Monets garden,,, it was all magical!"

Connie

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first Rick Steves tour and I was very pleased with the organized way the trip was conducted. It was flexible but still structured enough to keep on schedule .

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I can't pick a favorite "wow" moment cause there were so many! The Loire Valley castles were amazing, Paris was great and the quaint little towns were all "wows" for me"

Diane

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My daughter and I had a wonderful time in Paris and Northern France. Although I had visited most of the places as a teenager in 1972 on my first trip to Europe, it was a more layered trip to see it all again with my grown child. This was our fourth RS’s tour, and, as always, it was organized, curated, informative, with nice hotels, great food, lovely tour members, a great driver and Linda, the best guide in France.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"An overnight on Mont St. Michel, Leonardo da Vinci’s bedroom and study at Clos Lucé, Monet’s water lilies and flawless gardens, French pastries, and the very handsome (and interesting) guide at Guédelon. "

Bruce

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour had a good blend of experiences. There was time spent seeing Paris and its museums as well as time spent seeing the smaller towns and also the chateaus of the Loire valley. This was our third Rick Steves trip that included Paris. We enjoyed arriving a few days early to go to the top of the Eiffel Tower this time. One of our favorite small towns was Amboise. It is on the Loire River and is an enjoyable, walkable town. We also enjoyed seeing Leonardo da Vinci's home and inventions.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite "wow" moment was the Normandy tour. Our local British guide, Stuart Robertson was excellent and was able to describe the D-Day invasion as though we were there. The weather was also a factor. It was cold and rainy and very windy much like the day 80 years ago. Because my wife's father served in the Navy as an electrician on the landing craft during that invasion it was especially meaningful for us to be there. Hearing taps played at the American Cemetery was a special moment too"

Morgan

Tour: 06/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was organized very well. Our guide, Linda, was extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and witty . The local guides did a great job of communicating their expertise. From the hotels to the restaurants to the sights visited, it all made for an unforgettable trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really enjoyed visiting and spend the night on Mont Saint Michel. My family and I walked around the narrow cobbled streets as it rained lightly, taking in the experience. The tour of the Abbey the next day was interesting, but I’m glad this amazing place is not simply a day trip on the tour. "

Michele

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our sixth Rick Steves tour, and WOW, it was another fantastic experience! Our guide, Rebecca was awesome, as was our driver, Hans. What's more, the whole group gelled right away and made for excellent traveling companions - even newbies to the Rick Steves world were able to relax and enjoyed themselves.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many "wow" moments it's hard to narrow it down to just one. From our first days in Paris (my favorite city in the whole world) to gorgeous chateaux of the Loire Valley (Chambord and Chenonceau), to Mont St Michel and Giverny with Claude Monet's beautiful gardens. Visiting the D-Day beaches of Normandy was made all the more striking and soul-stirring by our local guide who brought stories of bravery to life for us. "

Norma

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

First time on an organized tour or a Rick Steves tour, I found it to be perfectly organized and well balanced. Wonderful experience. Would do it again.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Monet gardens was a very special and beautiful place. My highlight of the trip. "

Lindsay

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I would expect nothing less than perfection from a Rick Steves Tour. Everything has been meticulously planned to give us the best experience and it shows. My first trip, but many friends have been on his tours and everyone raves. Our guide Rebeca was a delight and so knowledgeable about France. I also appreciated our expert driver Hans.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All sights chosen were interesting but Chateau de Chenonceau took my breath away. So beautiful with exquisite fresh flowers in every room. "

Elizabeth

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

So appreciate the temporary local immersion in Paris and the heart of France--we can't stop talking about it! Just so tres bon, bon, bon! on every level from history to French culture and cuisine! Gosh, our guide, Rebecca--was the best----such passion and love--such gratitude for putting such depth as well as finishing touches to our trip! Best hotels, great iconic sights to great restaurants and art and wine tasting; castles and cathedrals, cafes and markets; history and culture!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St Michel was over the top amazing; and staying there with that view, was so special--3 eras of building and history, as well as the sacred singing in the Abbey early that morning; We also were also just so moved by the Normandy experience (with expert guide, Stuart)--ending at the cemetery and taps to honor our heroes of 40 years ago--we have taken in that history in a whole new way--such honor for those kids who changed our world. also- Monet, wine tasting chateau, DaVinci's house, Louvre"

Gary

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our experience with the Rick Steve's tours are so wonderful. We love the organization and detail that is provided to ensure a "stressless" holiday for us to enjoy the travel experience. The combination of activities, walking tours and excursions are an excellent opportunity to get immersed in the cultures of the countries we have visited. Your tour guides and hired local guides are terrific and so knowledgable! We also enjoy the opportunity to be with a nice sized group of travellers.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really loved the overnight stay on Mont St Michel and the visit to the abbey. It was such a wonderful experience to feel like we were "bridging time" on such a historically significant location. We were so impressed with the tour provided by Stuart Robertson and how he brought the beaches of Normandy alive given the significance of the 80th year anniversary of D-Day that had just been recognized. He provided a perspective that was so insightful."

David

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my favorite Rick Steves tour so far! My fellow travelers were a joy to be with. Our guide, Rebecca, was a fount of knowledge and expertise.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The tour with local guide Stuart, was excellent and brought the visit to the D-Day beaches to life."

Cheryl

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We were immersed in so many different parts of France: Paris, small villages, wine tasting, history and the strong bond with our partners in WW11, connecting with the French in a way that many miss when traveling there.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our guide, Rebecca, made our trip fabulous. Help with the language, French customs and just plain fun was her gift to us. D-Day sites and our exceptional guide was our cherished moment of the tour. So proud of our history there."

Tammy

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Traversing France with our Rick Steve’s tour guide, Rebecca was a fantastic experience. Rebecca’s knowledge of the history of France and her monarchs and the culture enhanced my understanding of the sights I saw. Rebecca also spoiled us with special treats and surprises. Our local were all well versed in the history they shared. It was a pleasure traveling with group delightful folks.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There was a wow moment almost everyday. My three favorite: Mont Michel (Maud was an excellent guide) Normandy beaches ( Stuart was amazing in bring June 6 to life for the group) and Monet Garden."

Steve

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The trip was amazing. The group size was not too big, the leader was amazing, and the locations visited did a great job of covering a variety of France and gave us a real feel for the country

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The empty streets on Mont Saint-Michel in the evening after all the crowds have left! "

Jamie

Tour: 06/04/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great tour! Rebecca was amazing! Loved all the learning and experiencing! I now love France!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint-Michel. The tour, the church service at the Abbey, the views, the story! Amazing! And I really appreciated that we got there as crowds were leaving and we left as crowds were coming - well timed!!!!"

Jay

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was fantastic, our tour guide Guillaume was a wealth of knowledge and did an amazing job at catering to the needs of everyone in the group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being able to spend the night on Mont Saint Michel. Absolutely remarkable experience. "

Amy

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent in every way! Hotel locations, meals, sites, educational tour guides but it all came together under the leadership of our guide, Guillaume. He was to knowledgeable and had such a good sense of what to do in every instance, a true professional yet fun and engaging.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hearing the morning prayers at Mt. St Michel, Normandy Beach, American Cemetery"

Kimberly

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a great experience! Guides and hotels were wonderful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St Michel and Chanonceax"

Pam

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour program is thoughtfully organized with a sampling of so many different Paris and countryside experiences. The guide, Guillaume was fabulous - well informed, well organized, very knowledgeable and experienced.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Exploring Mont Saint Michel"

Rebecca

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was so amazing but the tour guide was absolutely perfect! I was given so much history and details at every bus ride, destination, and tour through every church, castle, etc!!! We could not have asked for more!!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The whole tour…St Monte Michel was truly amazing. Normandy was an experience all by itself! Loved the tour of the countryside of France, the small towns, the people, the churches, the stories in stained glass…and more"

Timothy

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Organized. Great Tour Guide. Busy yet not to busy. Educational. Diverse. Fun!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Paris - Lueve / All Castles and Churches / DeVinci & Monet / Normandy "

Rachel

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved this tour! We had a great guide and a great group of people. We saw a lot! It was nice having group time but also free time to explore on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont St. Michel for the first time and knowing that we were going to be spending the night on the "Mont"!"

Jeff

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

High quality, very thought out and all of the details taken care of. Our guide, for the duration was outstanding, and the individual guides at particular sites added expertise. Great experience!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to name"

James

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

EXCELLENT

Favorite "WOW" moment

"staying on Mont St. Michel. visiting D Day beaches"

Julie

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a great group of travelers and were able to see so much on this trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Driving in to Mont St. Michel and seeing it off in the distance!"

Loula

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first Rick Steves tour. We have traveled privately all through Europe and I must say this was one of our favorite tours. Our guide was fabulous. He was very accommodating and very knowledgeable in all areas of France that we visited. We choice RS particularly because we heard their guides were exceptional.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite moment was the approach to Mont Saint Michel. "

Keith

Tour: 05/24/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Everything about our tour was outstanding, from the hotel accommodations, tour sites, our guide Guillame and our bus driver Jan!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I had two WOW moments. The first was attending the early morning service at the Abbey of Mont Saint-Michel. Six nuns and two monks sang Psalms in this gorgeous setting. The second WOW moment was the day-long tour of Normandy. Stuart, our guide for the day, was so knowledgeable and compassionate about the events and sacrifices on D-Day. It helped that we were there on June 1, and preparations for the 80th anniversary of D-Day were well underway. "

Kristin

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Knowledgeable guides, impressive locations/tours, delicious food!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The 7am service in the Mont Saint Michel Abbaye with four monks, six nuns, and 10 other tour members. The chants and acoustics in the quiet of the morning were beautiful!"

Rocklyn

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Outstanding doesn't begin to describe our tour guide, Marie. She did a fabulous job the entire time, like getting a graduate-level education of France! The same can be said for the other guides she used for specific places we visited. Unbelievably knowledgeable and fascinating information!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Ste. Michel. Also, watching the American flag being lowered while listening to TAPS at the American cemetery in Normandy."

Mary

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent. RS gives the right amount of together and alone time!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Staying on Mont St Michel "

Gail

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was perfectly curated with a good balance of planned time and free time. My fellow travelers were a joy as well. I would not even try to improve on the sites and experiences of this itinerary; it is very well thought out, with exceptional local guides in the mix.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Marie, our tour leader, without a doubt, was the WOW! An authentic French soul, so intent on keeping traditions, culture and history intact, brought a "glue" to everything that was absolutely irreplaceable and real. Thank you again, Marie! "

Jim

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a fantastic Rick Steves' tour that exceeded all expectations. Our guide, Marie, was exceptional—knowledgeable, friendly, and dedicated to ensuring we had a great experience. Every detail of the tour was well-organized, making the journey smooth and enjoyable. From breathtaking sights to unforgettable activities, it was a perfect adventure. We highly recommend this tour for anyone seeking a remarkable travel experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite "wow" moment from the tour was staying on Mont Saint-Michel (MSM). This magical island, crowned by a gravity-defying abbey, is one of France's most stunning sights. Once a major pilgrimage destination, MSM is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with its breathtaking bay. Visiting MSM is incredible, but staying there is unbelievable. The opportunity to join the monks and nuns for morning prayer added a profound and unforgettable dimension to the experience."

Bill

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was excellent. We saw some things we saw unexpected things that we weren’t aware of that added to the tour and love all the major stops.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved the visit to Mt St Michel and the chase to join the morning prayer."

Eric

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent tour which ran like a Swiss watch. The tour guide, Marie, is an expert and made the tour fun and informative. The agenda was very full with less free time than other RS tours I have taken

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The "wow" moment of the trip for me was walking up the spiral stars from the lower level into the upper chapel of the Sainte Chapelle cathedral. Took my breath away."

Lou

Tour: 05/21/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Everything came together perfectly.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The small towns in French countryside and Normandy visit "

Eric

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was tremendous. We had done an RS tour in Italy and we knew it would be great, but this exceeded our expectations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It's difficult to isolate only one. We were not able to tour Notre Dame in Paris due to the continuing reconstruction project, but we were to thrilled to see and tour the Cathedral of St. Etienne in Bourges with so many similarities to ND. We were constantly and pleasantly surprised by amazing places even in the smaller towns."

Eugene

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our "Heart of France" tour was everything we could have every hoped for. The places we went, the group of people we were with, our tour guide, the hotels, and the food were all exceptional!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michel"

Robert

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a great time!!!!! You always learn so much about the country you are traveling in, Our guide Linda was great also. I had so much fun setting down and just talking to her about her experiences as a guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Going to the castle they are building the way they did in the 13 century. "

Carol

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great guide and great experience

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy"

Murat

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent, very attentive guide, well chosen meals and local gides.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Spending the night at Mont St. Michel"

David

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well-planned in terms of sights, time on the bus, and free time. Excellent team-leader guides No "bad" hotels.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The D-Day Beaches and American Cemetery affected me much more than I anticipated."

Caren

Tour: 05/17/24

The tour was all that I hoped for an more. I wanted to learn more about France and especially see the D-Day landing sites. A feature I especially appreciated was learning details of history and daily life that provided an enriching experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were three: Guédelon, Fabuleux Château de Fougère, and Omaha beach and cemetery. "

Lale R

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Loved the location, places we visited. Guides (both trip and local) were great.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Many. Seeing the Louvre Museum, Chambord castle, Giverny's lush scenery, Normandy beaches..."

Ann

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

First, our guide, Linda, was a standout….knowledgeable, witty, helpful. The itinerary was also just right…busy but that is what we are looking for. There was also enough free time to explore on our own and also with the experienced suggestions of our guides.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Aside from the gardens at Rodin, Eiffel Tower lit up at night and seeing Mont St Michel for the first glimpse, the overall beauty of Paris was the best treat for me…"

Cindy

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Beyond my expectations! I learned so much, ate so well, slept in very nice hotels! Our tour guide Linda was phenomenal! Linda knows her subject well, she is an educator, she has a great sense of humor, very relatable, we just had so much fun! The people on our tour we hope to stay in contact with because they are awesome. In every way. Traveling to Normandy was made extra special because of the upcoming 80th anniversary, most of our group knew a family member touched by WWII, I am so grateful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michel. Stunning"

Richard

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was our 1st trip to Europe and we had a wonderful experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Couldn't pick just one."

Maureen

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Busy schedule, great history information from our main guide, Linda, each local guide for the small towns and neighbourhoods of Paris. Comfortable accommodations in hotels and on bus. Good instructions for safety and exploration on our own. Much appreciated discount for tour of Leonardo Da Vinci house which was not included on our tour. Much appreciated efforts by Linda to be sure I was able to eat gluten free meals when we ate together as a gluten free allergy did not seem to be well understood

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to decide, but would have to say the Normandy beaches tour with Stewart. Very close second is attending vespers at Mt St Michel"

John

Tour: 05/17/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our first trip to France and our first tour. Was fabulous from beginning to end. Well organized, great sites and tours and our director was unbelievable.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Impact of the visit to Normandy with Stuart."

Stephen

Tour: 05/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great guide excellent group of people plenty to see and learn.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michel and D-Day beaches"

Victoria

Tour: 05/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The trip with our amazing tour guide, Rebecca was so much fun! We learned a lot and saw France as a county of lovely people and lovely places.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My WOW moment was Mont St-Michel. The morning of the non-denominational service in the Abbey was special and a gorgeous sunset ended a wonderful day. "

Richard

Tour: 05/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Christine

Tour: 05/14/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

A variety of opportunities to learn and see the tourist sites but also how the local live in the small towns and markets with a highly organized and educated guide and a great group of fellow travelers.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Giverny and Mount Saint Michele"

Joane

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great guide and locations

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. MIchel"

Jan

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The trip rated in my top four (I have three children) life experiences. It is one of the best things I’ve ever done for myself.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"A favorite “wow” moment is hard to pick out. One big “wow” was that I was an older single woman and I was able to get around on my own and keep up with a very active tour. Everyone was welcoming without being smothering. Just the fact that I was in France and it was so much more authentically French that I ever imagined was one “wow” moment . The places we saw, I loved them all, and want to go back!, but I think the “wow” moment was the French people. Nicest people ever."

Eric

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our third RSE tour and, like the others, it exceeded expectations. A great blend of city, country, history, culture, organized group events and free time. The itinerary was well-designed. Each detail was carefully attended to. RSE doesn’t just plan tours; it curates them.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I feared up at the American Cemetery above Omaha Beach in Normandy as we approached the wall listing all the soldiers still MIA after 80 years. I’ve known the facts about D-Day since I was a kid. Being there allowed me to experience it with my heart as well as my head."

Jon

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was wonderful! From our first experience to our last, our tour was a beautifully designed and richly executed pilgrimage of visual delights, historical insights, cultural learnings and emotional resonances! Just as witnessing Guedelon’s scholarly construction of a 13th century castle using 13th century tools and methods firsthand informed our later appreciation of other very real and historical castles on the tour, each location led to our enjoyment and understanding of successive sites.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"With the expertise and very supportive help of our terrific guide, Guillaume, and the wonderful and friendly companionship of our fellow tour members, every moment really became a “wow” moment for us! Standouts of course were the overwhelmingly beautiful collections of the Orsay, the Louvre, the Rodin Museum and the Invalides; the stunning architecture, history and settings of Sainte-Chapelle, Chambord, Chenonceau, Clos Luce, Versailles and Mont Saint-Michel; and the floral symphony at Giverny."

Marlene

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We were very glad to see how organized the entire tour was. It had just the right amount of active excursions as well as an adequate amount of personal time to explore on our own. Our guide Guillaume was wonderful; he gave us a lot of information about places we were visiting and he helped us with the French language and introduced us to French music. The local tour guides were equally good. In all, I think it was extremely well organized and we look forward to signing up for another one.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to pick just one: the stained glass in Sainte-Chapelle, Mont Saint Michel and Monet’s gardens."

Steve

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Your was so well organized, tour guide was very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and had excellent personality. Paris especially is a crazy city but our tour made it easy to get around and see what we needed to see. There are just so many places to see in France but this tour did a great job of covering many of them in the time allotted.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I think it would have to be Mont St Michel. Just an amazing place in all aspects. "

Mary Ann

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Tour was well planned and organized highlighting points of interest throughout the journey.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visiting the beaches in Normandie. The guide did an excellent job explaining and sharing the history. "

John

Tour: 05/10/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We had an amazing adventure , oue 1st RS Tour and very well planned.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really enjoyed the Normandy day with local expert really filling in with numerous amazing bits of history."

Carol

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The group was upbeat and friendly. The tour guide set the tone of positivity and structure in a friendly way. Veronique, our guide taught us to be independent, write the metro, find our way around and was a delight. It seemed like every day had one or more mountaintop experiences. When we were on the bus, it was comfortable and informative, and felt safe. Our driver was great.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to pick one wow moment Because every day seemed to present several of them. I really appreciate it getting into the Louvre in such an expeditious way. The museum itself was kind of overwhelming, but I was so happy to see some amazing art."

Bonnie

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The itinerary was perfect- art, architecture, history all melded together for a well curated experience. Veronique was the best tour guide EVER!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont St Michel for the first time rising out of the sea"

Charles

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was a trip of a lifetime! Our tour guide Veronique was absolutely wonderful! Her vast knowledge of all aspects of our tour, and her way of relating to us made our experience not only very educational, relaxing, but deeply personal. Our tours of museums, chateaus, cathedrals, and villages helped to make France’s history come alive. Most of all was Veronique’s unique ability to foster camaraderie among our fellow tour mates

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We had so many of these WOW moments, it is hard to pick just one. However I will always remember our last night in Normandy.. Our tour group assembled outside our hotel and formed a circle. We toasted our ancestors who had served in WWII. Amid a slight drizzle and a sinking sun off Gold Beach, we each shared a brief story about the ultimate sacrifices that they made to insure our freedom. It was a deeply personal and moving moment!"

Steve

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We had a wonderful time with our tour group visiting Paris and the heart of France. Vero was an excellent guide leading us from town to town, tour to tour and food to food. She gave us perspectives on French culture, French food and wine and their view of Americans. We had spring weather (rain, windy) several days which was no surprise- everyone was prepared for it. No complaints. The hotels were all very distinct and figuring out the showers in each was an added adventure.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My wife and I both agree the tour in Normandy was the #1 highlight. The beaches, the small towns, military history and German and American Cemetaries were very emotional experiences. In the evening, our tour group had a toast to all those who served and said the names of family members that served to be sure they were remembered. Another highlight was staying at Mont St-Michel and attending the morning prayer service. It is not to be missed. Monet's Gardens were an expected delight too."

Debra

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Giverny"

Jimmy

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very informative, locations, sites,tour information and guides excellent. Vero was excellent guide and very helpful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy, chateaux, small towns, the people on the Tour and the feeling on really being in France beyond being a tourist. Getting the real view of history and the culture. Monets garden was an experience. The Normande guide was exceptional on in formation , knowledge and even helped look up where my Father's unit had served for me. "

Lynne

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The array of places we visited was terrific; our tour guide--Veronique--was exceptional; the location of all hotels made getting around the villages/cities easy; and the people on the tour were fun, kind, and easy to get along with. We bonded as a group which made the journey even better. An overall wonderful experience!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It' hard to pin down just one, but I'd have to say that arriving at Mont Saint Michel and having the opportunity to stay over night there was a wow moment. Our room was far up the Mont so we had a beautiful view. When we left the next day and later arrived in Arromanches to the hotel at the seashore, that was another wow moment!"

Melita

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our 3rd Rick Steves tour and as usual, it did not disappoint. Our tour leader and local guides made the experience enriching and fun. I’ve been to France many times but learned more about French culture, the food and the people in this one trip then all my independent trips combined!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but the one that stands out the most for me was seeing the Bayeaux Tapestry which has been a lifelong goal of mine. I did not expect the richness and vibrancy of the colors nor how much more I would appreciate the artistry and its role as propaganda seeing it in person."

Mary Kay

Tour: 05/07/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour had so many Wow moments and was a dream bucket list come true! Very well organized due to the hard work of our guide, Vero. She was everything you hope for in a guide- no nonsense professional with great rapport and enthusiasm.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Monet’s house and garden in Giverny. I am a gardener who has dreamed of seeing this garden and house for many years. It is unforgettable!"

Donna

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I had a lovely time. I enjoyed the group and hope someday that I'll see a few fellow travelers again. I would definitely sign up for a Rick Steves tour again.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Watching the tide coming in at Mont San Michel."

Robert

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Exceeded my expectations. We learned a lot, made some new friends, found every site interesting, and ate/drank far too much.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Touring Guédelon "

Laura

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour represented the best of group travel and of the Rick Steves approach. We got to know fellow like-minded travelers, we beat lines and crowds, and we stayed in unique well-located hotels.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Sitting on a deck at our Mont St Michel hotel room overlooking the ocean away from the crowds and experiencing the beauty of the island."

Esmeralda

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Marcia

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We thoroughly enjoyed the group. Our guide Claire was so engaging and informative. She was incredibly organized and went out of her way to make sure we were all having a great experience and made everyone feel included. She arranged for special treats from the local shops on our walking tours. She really made the tour a lovely experience. Jacque the bus driver was not only a phenomenal driver, he was part of the fun and was always there when we needed him. Just a great trip.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many to choose from but having a lovely dinner with our tour companions on Mt. St. Micheal watching the high tide come in and turning it into an island. Up and sunrise to hear the monks sing their beautiful prayers. Loved all the charming towns, our guides, the food and the camaraderie with our fellow travelers. It was our first Rick Steve's tour, and we will definitely return for more. "

Leslie

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Spending the night on Mont Saint Michel, getting up before dawn to see the sunrise over the salt marsh and attending the morning sunrise service at the monastery. Words do not suffice for that experience. "

Emily

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Stephanie

Tour: 05/03/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a lovely time and enjoyed the entire experience of touring Paris and seeing the beautiful countryside.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I especially enjoyed the wine tasting and the chateaus in the Loire Valley."

Jim

Tour: 04/26/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Overall it was a good tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy. Very good guide to tell the story of DDay"

Liz

Tour: 04/26/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

I thought that the size of the tour was too big. I think 22 tourists plus two (driver and tour guide), total of 24, would have been better. A smaller group especially at the group dinners would have been better to make the seating arrangements better and not overwhelm the restaurant staff.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I really enjoyed the Loire Valley, including the chateaux and the medieval towns that we explored. "

Barbara

Tour: 04/26/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Tour was a lot of fun and we saw so many great sights. I love the fact that we have some "free time" to explore other things that might interest us.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy and being inside the actual bunkers"

Kathleen R

Tour: 04/26/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We saw many sites that we would not have visited on our own. We enjoyed our tour guide, Guillaume, and the other tour guides in Paris, at San St. Michel, & in Normandy. The meals were delicious!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I thought walking the ramparts on the island of San St. Michel In the evening after the crowds had left was amazing! Our dinner & our guide the next morning were great.,So much information!"

Dianne

Tour: 04/26/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

A comfortable, pleasant trip of Paris and Normandy

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Viewing sunrise from Mont-Saint-Michele"

Stanley

Tour: 04/26/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great tour! We toured many small french towns that would never have been on our radar otherwise. Our guide was outstanding: very knowledgeable with a very cheerfull attitude all the time. We enjoyed his mini history lessons and choice of music on the bus rides.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but Monet's gardens and Mont Saint Michel were probably up there near the top."

Lisa

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We saw an incredible amount of sites and learned so much!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy. The weather cooperated and it was cold and rainy--just what greeted the heroes that stormed these beaches, minus the horrifying guns."

Edward

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Exhaustively fantastic! Wonderfully scenic with charming, historic towns and villages. Emotionally moving sites of Mont Saint-Michel and the Normandy landing sites.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy landing sites and Chateau de Chenonceau"

Cheryl

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was super. I enjoyed our guide and fellow travelers (many of whom were repeat customers). All went as expected even with a Paris Metro closure and a replacement bus. Any little challenges were dealt with efficiently. Really enjoyed the neighborhood walks with expert guides. Found Paris and the Heart of France very enriching.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was wowed by Chenonceau. Absolutely gorgeous. Loved the French countryside and small towns. Wowed by the sight of Mont Saint Michel. "

Mary

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Arnaud brought this tour to a whole other level! This is a fast paced, experience packed tour that was made absolutely outstanding by Arnaud’s vast knowledge on a variety of topics and amazing story telling skills! We felt so fortunate to have such an experienced and skilled Frenchman leading the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Probably the night spent on Mont Saint Michael and attending 7am mass the next morning (and I am not catholic!). It was so special to have the Mont to ourselves in the evening and walk the ramparts at night. "

Mark

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our Rick Steves tour not only introduced to French history, food and culture, but finally banished our inappropriate fears of visiting France due to perceived biases and language challenges! We will go back!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Spending the night on Mont St Michel was a rare experience in a beautiful and historic place. Getting up early for the prayer service in the sanctuary made this even more special! (If weather had been less foreboding on our Normandy beaches day, this would likely have surpassed even Mont St. Michel as a “wow” experience!)"

Ellen

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

With 3 great RS tours under our belt, expectations were high. France was spectacular but the tour itself left us with some major disappointment. I honestly can’t say what I would leave out, but this itinerary felt over scheduled. A constant reminder to”hurry, hurry” and so little free time we didn’t get to recover or do some of the things we would have done on our own. One of the major issues, though, was Covid.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Paris. This was hands down the most beautiful city I have seen. "

Mark

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Overall I had a great trip. Paris is a beautiful city and I had no idea that France had all of those grand palaces.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The wow for me was visiting Chateau de Guedelon where archaeologists are building a medieval castle using medieval techniques. It was so interesting and amazing. "

Michelle

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was an outstanding tour. I knew I would enjoy the tour, but it was even better than imagined it would be. This was my first time in France, and I have fallen in love with the country. Our amazing tour guide Arnaud made the tour exceptional with his warmth, humor, knowledge and organizational skills. I have been back less than 2 weeks and I have already booked the Eastern France tour for next year. I hope we get lucky and Arnaud is our tour guide for the next tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many wow moments it is hard to choose. Seeing Chenonceau, Chambord and Mont Sainte Michel was amazing, but I was equally thrilled with the quaint towns of Amboise and Bourges with their half-timbered buildings and lovely inhabitants."

Fred

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour experience was very good. The tour director did an excellent job. We felt very comfortable with the pace and the bus rides were good

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint Michelle "

Brian

Tour: 04/19/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Arnaud kindly and expertly guided us with his knowledge of French culture. Having visited Paris before, we especially appreciated seeing the beautiful countryside in the Loire, Brittany, and Normandy. Local guides were first rate. Standing on the Normandy beaches brought a connection to my father's military service there. Giverny, both Monet's garden and community, such a delight with spring blooms. Unfortunately Covid became an issue at Amboise and through to the end of the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our favorite "wow" moments were walking up the ramparts of Mont St. Michel by flashlight, waiting at the Abbey door overlooking the changing tide, and worshipping with six members of the religious community at their early morning service. When the monks and nuns chanted, their voices soared through the ancient stone walls and arches. It felt like being transported to another time in history."

Bonnie

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a wonderful experience thanks to our amazing guide, Claire, and fellow travelers. Claire put together a memorable experience, great itinerary, great guest guides, nice hotels, great food.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Favorite “wow” moment was Normandy, which was my reason for this trip. A visit to Angoville-au-Plain was unexpected and totally heartfelt. I’m sure there is no better guide than Dale. His narrative of the events that unfolded in Normandy left me in tears and with a greater understanding of what transpired here. "

Peggy

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy DDay guide and history "

Kenneth

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Informative, guides were clear and well versed in their descriptions

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Angoville-au-Plain and the history described by Dale"

Suzanne

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I enjoyed your tour very much. I especially liked the tour guides that came on board to share their expertise with a particular site. They were all very knowledgeable and informative.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite tour moment was the "church hospital" near Utah Beach. I especially like hearing from Chad. He was extremely knowledgeable and shared information that was heartfelt. I was overcome with the are from the moment we neared the area. It was especially kind the mayor and guardian of the church were on hand to greet us. I will never forget this experience. "

Christopher

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

The tour more than met my expectations. The tour leader was excellent as were the local guides,

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy's D-Day Beaches. Local guide Dale provided a very detailed description of what happened on Utah and Omaha beaches during the invasion on June 6, 1944. "

Julie

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

fantastic itinerary Claire: knowledgeable, fun while looking out for us. Food just ok to not even ok, with a few outstanding meals. Generally, too much food. Husband & I could have split a sandwich rather than be served loaf of bread. Sad to waste food. Glorious French countryside in April amazing Eric

Favorite "WOW" moment

"woman in empty church, fills it with her voice - sunlight creates reflection on marble floor from stained glass me getting toddler to laugh - parents have family picture Monet’s Garden – mother’s appreciation me fastening necklace on customer - her gratitude open market - happy clothing & food purchases scent of wisteria & strawberries climbing top Amboise Fougères nature walk Mont-Saint-Michel – morning prayer Dale Abbey Bookstore – sells my book - puts my bookmarks out "

Jim

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Good people, great guide, one greatest hit after another.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Damn, I hate this question. Each day was a joy. But I'll go a little off script and say the most unexpected Wow moment was the Bayeax Tapestry. I was prepared for all the other splenders. Even if I hadn't seen them in real life, I was not caught by surprise. They lived up to my expectations. The Tapestry, which was not unknown to me, was more than I expected. And the way it was presented was very well done."

Denise

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

It was my first group tour. I was anxious about the group, the guide, basically everything! But it was wonderful. My fellow travelers were friendly, helpful and fun. The guide was knowledgeable, helpful, calm, fun and kept us in line and on task! Each day revealed more wonder for the eyes. It was awesome!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It's so difficult to give a single wow moment, there were so many. My most suprising wore moment had to be the drive from Paris into the French countryside. I did not anticipate the beauty of the full bloom canola field and the abundance of wisteria all in green filing hills. "

Jennifer

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Everything we expected and more.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"D Day Tour with Dale. "

Roberto

Tour: 04/16/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

This was our first experience with group travel and we enjoyed our tour very much. Our guide for the week was excellent and the tours, hotels, and restaurants were all well thought out to cater to the needs of the group as a whole.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We were accompanied to the beaches of Normandy by a top notch guide, Dale, and this was a “wow” moment for me. His knowledge and passion in sharing what we were seeing made the visits super interesting and impactful."

Carol

Tour: 04/12/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour group was very congenial and our guide, Linda, was outstanding. The tour itself is very carefully planned so that we visited popular sites when they were least crowded (usually first thing in the morning) so that we could have the best experience. It was a wonderful experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Touring the D-Day beaches with an expert guide was the high point of the tour for me. I had actually been there before many years ago, but having a very knowledgeable and articulate guide made it all so much more meaningful. What an experience! "

William

Tour: 04/12/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Me and my wife are 53 and wanted to try a group bus tour so we didn’t have to plan every detail. Happy we did. The bus, hotels, tours and meals were great.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Entering Mont Saint Michel, sleeping there, going to morning prayer and walking around the place with no crowd. The place is paced once the day people arrive."

Marc

Tour: 04/12/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was well planned, organized and executed. The sites selected were of personal interest and expanded our interest in the region. All guides were excellent and the principal guide was particularly good. Nothing bad to say, only that we have started to plan our next tour with Rick Steve.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The depth of the Normandy day(s) were excellent. It is very difficult to pick one particular moment of the tour, there were multiple moments."

Beth

Tour: 04/12/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Karla

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Terrific, although Turkey was even better because we were seeing things completely new.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the Bayeaux Tapestry. I was amazed that a story from so long ago was told in a way that spoke to me across the millennium. There is no greater joy for a history buff!"

Jill

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I loved the energy and the iconic landmarks of Paris, but escaping to the French countryside was a balm for the soul after the whirlwind tour of the city. By the end, I was ready for the final taste of urban excitement of Paris. I will need to visit Paris someday as I missed so much.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"D-day battlefields and the American cemetery were moving and profound for this American. My late father, a WW2 vet, was foremost in my mind during this part of the tour, so it felt like a personal, spiritual journey. "

Carol

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Got to see amazing sights in France in a shot amount of time. Our tour group was very friendly and our guide Guillaume was very organized and helpful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but the one that I was not expecting was Mt St Michael - the views from our room were spectacular."

Jamie

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well organized tour. Very punctual. Good group of travel mates. The somewhat long bus rides are a necessity for seeing so much of France in <2 weeks. I think our group would have been amiable to early morning bus rides to allow us more touring time at the various sites.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy. Very moving. Glad we also visited the German cemetery for full context."

Darrell

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The experience was exceptional on all levels. Our tour guide Guillaume Kerbart was historically knowledgeable but gave us a perspective of French politics and culture that enriched our experience. Once again like in London we were paired with American tourists who we found as welcoming and always helpful. The places were spot on …my only criticism is that I would have enjoyed another day in Normandy. One day just is not enough time to take everything in.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I initially was going to say Normandy. But in reflection, Mont St. Micheal. Where do you ever get an opportunity to stay right on the mountain. In addition, we got to hear the Nuns and Priests chanting in the Cathedral in the morning. It was a wow moment for me. Just to think I almost missed this moment when I was going to stay in my room and get some extra sleep. That would have been unfortunate."

Geoff

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This being my second tour with Rick Steves, I considered set myself a bit of a veteran, once again I was immensely impressed by how well organized the tour is from beginning to end, I was very partial to the previous guide, wondered how this new one would fare and I needn't worried because Guillaume was terrific. These tours have been such a good experience I'm emptying piggy banks and practically bringing back bottles to save for my next trip!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several moments that stand out to me. The château de Chenonceau was beautiful beyond compare and I was surprised how moved I was after realizing its extensive history especially as a World War I hospital and escape route for refugees in World War II. Speaking of war, the visit to the Normandy sites were also extremely moving and memorable. Mount Saint Michelll (sp) was also unforgettable, very glad that we had lodging for the night, Couldn't forget to mention Monet's garden either"

Doreen

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my second Rick Steves Tour, after attending my first one in Sicily! The itinerary was wonderful and all of the sites we got to see were exceptional! Guillaume Kerbert, our tour guide, was magnificent throughout our journey. He really cared about all of us, and took so much time into explaining where we were going and provided history on the sites that we were getting ready to see. We were blessed with a wonderful group of considerate travelers, who were very punctual!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Spending nine hours visiting the Normandy beaches. We had Sylvain as our WWII historian, and he had books and photos and explained Omaha and Utah beach history. he perfectly coordinated us being able to observe Taps at 5pm sharp at the American WWII Cemetery. it was an extremely emotional day and in light of this year’s 80th anniversary it made our trip even more special."

Kristin

Tour: 04/09/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great group and wonderful guide!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy"

Sharon

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a wonderful first trip with RST. We believe that the positives outweighed the negatives and we’re looking forward to another tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Staying overnight on Mont St Michel and attending morning prayers in the Abbey there"

Alice

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

I had mixed feelings all along.. I enjoyed all the places we were taken to , however, seeing these great places was too fast. One can see a place in a few hours, but to see in depth , to really experience a place, takes a much longer time. I realized that when I started this tour that I would have a hard time because I could not keep up with the group. I found that stairs were very painful for me and suffered for most of the trip. I am a senior and should be on a tour for seniors.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Experiencing Mont Saint Michel was magical , from every angle, from the great view from our window , seeing rocks, architecture, water combination. "

Susan

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Enjoyed how active the tour was and ability to see many things as a small group. Hotels were nice local hotels with friendly staff. Most of all, felt safe and confident while in a different country.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy Beaches"

James

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

A fun time, physically demanding and amazing learning experience. 28 person group seemed large, we had a 12 person group from the same town in Florida (group within our group). We also had 2 very elderly folks (80s+) on our tour that could not keep up with the group physically and we were concerned for their safety.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Sunrise on Mount St. Michelle. Giverny was in full bloom."

Stephen

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Staying overnight on Mont Saint Michelle. Being there at night with only a handful of other people around!"

Tracy

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide, Arnaud, made our trip extra special. He was informative, organized, and full of art and historical knowledge.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The little extras that were included added the wow factor. We had local treats, fresh from the sea oysters, and cheese and wine tastings throughout the trip. "

Hubert

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

For the most part, I thoroughly enjoyed the tour. My only criticism would be the group size. I personally would have preferred to tour in a smaller group of around 10 to 15 individuals instead of 27. But as for the locations visited, the selection of places to visit was exceptional. I would have preferred more time at some locations, and less time at others, but I am sure that the company had to balance travel logistics beyond my priorities.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Walking around Mount St. Michele at sunrise. "

Patty

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Everything was good. Just wish you had more time at places and less free time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Everything "

Jeffrey

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Met and exceeded my expectations

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Staying at Mont St. Michel and the Normandy day"

Marta

Tour: 04/05/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Fun, informative, variety

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Giverny tres jolie!"

Holly

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Patrick, our guide, kept us all on track with his energy, endless facts and information and good humor! We experienced France in a wonderful way and saw several sights on our bucket list.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Standing next to Notre Dame and watching the labor of love to repair it."

Matthew

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour itself is amazing. Perfect combo of tour and solo adventures. Guides for the most part we're ok. Patrick the key tour guide was the best.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The people of Paris. "

Linda

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour of the Heart of France was wonderful. It was a retirement trip for me and didn't disappoint. Patrick Vidal, our guide, was great. He as very knowledgeable and supportive of the needs of the tour group. It was Spring Break in France and very crowded at most of the attractions but it didn't stop the fun or our ability to enjoy the sites. I love that Rick Steve's tours take us to interesting, unexpected places like Guedelon and Bayeux.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Wow moment for me was Mont St. Michel. Our tour was during an unusually high tide and we were truly on an island overnight."

Anne

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our tour guide, Patrick, was great! The itinerary was everything we could ask for. Overall, the tour was a wonderful experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Looking out of our hotel room and watching the tide rush in around us on Mont St Michel."

Lisa

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I knew this tour would be fabulous, but it kept surpassing my expectations along the way. It was perfect for a lifelong learner like me. Each day held surprises even though we had a planned itinerary with the compelling history, spaces, people, or terrific food and wine of France. Our guide, Patrick Vidal, is a valuable treasure for the Rick Steves organization. He was knowledgeable, organized, thought quickly on his feet, and was personable & approachable. I would not hesitate to do all again!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The moment that nearly had me in happy tears was when we took the first look out at the view from our room atop Mont St. Michel. I will never forget the sight of the tide rolling in, the sound of the seagulls cackling, and the multitude of gray rain clouds streaming across the sky as the sun peeked through...AMAZING!"

Ron

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our first RS tour since the pandemic and we were so happy to see that nothing had changed in terms of the level of excellence. The tour was perfectly and seamlessly organized. Our guide, Patrick Vidal, was incredible - so knowledgeable and so interesting. He kept us perfectly informed. Our driver, Henry, was wonderful - fit right into the group and his driving skills were impressive. The local guides were outstanding. Plus we had a really nice group of fellow travelers!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I had my heart set on several parts of the trip - Mont St Michel & Giverny in particular. Being able to stay the night on Mont St Michel was an incredible and unforgettable experience. But I really fell in love with the Chateau de Chenonceau in the Loire Valley - the Ladies Chateau. Absolutely beautiful - I really could have stayed there forever. My husband is a WWII history buff and could not get enough of the D-Day Beaches - we both were so grateful for this experience."

James

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Overall - the tour was a deeply satisfying, fun and educational experience which gave us a quick, but quite comprehensive, taste of middle-France - with its easy-going start in Paris, wide swing through the Loire Valley and the Chateaux experience, vineyards and fine wines. Unforgettable and emotional were the Normandy D-Day Beaches and the last evening's exquisite meal together and a most precious "goodbye" to each other while gazing at a sparkling Eiffel Tower. Very nice! Very pleased!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It was a moving time of deep emotion and grace to stand on the Normandy D-Day Beaches, since wife Carol's father had landed on Utah Beach with the 90th Infantry Division, and to see the memorial to those soldiers as we left the beach. Another highlight was da Vinci's end-of-life home, the spectacular surrounding park and garden, and the mind-boggling models of inventions that came from the mind of that man. And, of course, the night's stay on Mont Saint MIchel. Truly a "bucket list" item!"

Kristyn

Tour: 04/02/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Interesting sights and cities in this tour starting with Paris. So happy this tour included Normandy and I loved spring through the countryside enroute to the other cities that we had the opportunity to visit.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Have to admit it was the Eiffel Tower. But next came Notre Dame Cathedral. "

Leslie

Tour: 03/29/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I very much enjoyed this tour - our guide Linda, bus driver John and local guides were outstanding. While I enjoyed some, most of the meals were less than expected of French cuisine, especially the vegetarian mostly one note entrees. The amount of structured versus free time was good. However, my experience in Paris, especially the Louvre, was disappointing. This is partially due to the excessive crowds over Easter weekend but also my lack of understanding the knack of procuring museum tickets.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"All stops in Normandie were amazing! After a long and somber day visiting the WWII sites and relearning history and watching the flag ceremony at the American Cemetery I very much appreciated the last day of the tour relaxing in awe at Giverny. "

Terresa

Tour: 03/29/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our second RS tour, and it did not disappoint. We learned so much information about France from our RS tour guide as well as the local guides. I cannot say enough about Linda, our tour guide. She was a wealth of knowledge about the country she loves, and she had a great sense of humor that kept us entertained.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The tour of Normandy was spectacular. Our local guide was quite informative on the history of the area and explained the people from Normandy love Americans and even fly American flags along with the French flags. We visited Normandy American Cemetery and were able to see the lowering of the flags while Taps was being played. It was a very memorable experience."

Luellen

Tour: 03/29/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our second Rick Steves Tour so we knew what to expect and look forward to. All of our expectations were met and exceeded. Linda our guide was wonderful, our tour group was very congenial, the history and sites were incredible and breathtaking! This was a great tour to experience the overall essence of France!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There are many moments from which to choose: The sacred ground at Normandy, the beautiful Chenonceau Chateau, the stained glass windows in Sainte-Chapelle, Claude Monet's home and gardens at Giverny. The "wow" moment that tops all of these was experiencing the morning prayer service at the Abbey on Mont-Saint-Michel. The reverence of the chapel and the beautiful chanting was meditative, inspiring, and spiritual. It is so worth getting up very early to be at the Abbey door before 6:50 AM!!"

Jessica

Tour: 03/29/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Was very good, not outstanding, for these reasons: we did not have "ample time" to visit Chateaux Chambord as we had what I considered an unnecessary wine-tasting, which cut into our time to explore the Chateaux and expansive grounds, and We only had 1.5 hours at Chateau de Chenonceau to "roam its opulent interior and gardens" as there was a mix-up in opening time. Many of us wanted to spend more time at both these places so we could roam the gardens.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Bayeaux Tapestry and Normandy beaches/cemetery. My husband is a VN vet, and the flag-lowering ceremony moved him to tears. "

Rebecca

Tour: 03/29/24

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Debbie

Tour: 03/29/24

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was fantastic! We learned so much about France, its culture, history and people.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being able to stand on the D-Day Beaches in Normandy. "

Susan

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We loved our first Rick Steves tour! We were very impressed with out tour guide, Linda, as well as all of the local guides. We loved all the places we visited on this well-planned tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont St-Michel from a distance"

Paul

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We covered more ground and sites then I could have done in three weeks.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The beaches cemeteries and church of Normandy."

Theresa

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great sites! Great people on the tour including the Guide!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michelle "

Theresa

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Tour was awesome but felt like moving hotels so much was not fun .

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Monet Gardens and Mr St Michelle and Normandy "

Mark

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour (excellent guide Linda) took me to places I would not have be able to go to--or even thought of: Bourges, Amboise, Fougeres, Bayeaux, the D-Day beaches, Giverny, and the interesting rest stops along the highway--unsuspected views of French life. The choice of hotels in Paris was inspired--convenient and accessible to all the sights. Thank you for passes (subway and Museum--and getting me into crowed Sainte Chapel and the Lourvre). I enjoyed the dinners and lunches and my companions.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Guedelon showed how medieval castles were made--and demonstrated the skills. Guedelon gave insight to all the other medieval and Renaissance buildings on the tour. Guide/stonemason Ben demonstrated the needed knowledge and dedication. Attending "Lauds" took us to the heart of the life of the Abbey of St-Michel over the last thousand years. The excellent guided tour (Maud) showed how the Abbey grew and functioned. Staying on St-Michel made us residents. We heard the organ at St. Surplice!"

Christopher

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I thoroughly enjoyed my tour. Our guide, Linda Benoit-Beeling, was wonderful--informed, considerate and entertaining--and all the tour members were interesting and involved. It didn't seem to matter that it rained just about every day. Everyone got along and Linda kept us humming. I highly recommend this tour, and any tour with Linda.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I'm a fan of medieval history, so the wow moments for me were the castle renovation at Guedelon, the Bayeux tapestry and Mont Saint Michel. I also was not expecting to enjoy Givenchy as much as I did,"

Susan

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Though I was familiar with Paris, this tour took me to places I'd never have seen on my own. Tour guide, Linda, was enthusiastic and well-informed about all the sites we visited. She is also a good story-teller!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was looking forward to Guedelon and it exceeded expectations. What an incredible undertaking! Our guide had been working there for just about a year, yet he knew every detail of each part of the project and engaged us all with his clear explanations of the history and the building process. It was particularly useful to see this castle in progress and then see the Loire castles."

Joan

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The overall tour was very well done. Our tour guide Linda did a great job both being generally informative and helpful and keeping the tour moving. The local guides also provided a lot of great detail.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several wow moments for me. One was walking around the corner in Bourges and seeing the Cathedral. Another was the Château de Chambord. The architecture was amazing and we really enjoyed walking around out on the parapets. Last but not least was our overnight oout on Mont-Saint-Michel."

Diane

Tour: 10/20/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We really enjoyed our trip. Our tour guide was fantastic, sharing a ton of information. Our group was fun and the sites were well selected.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were a few—Mont St Michelle, the chateau being built with medieval techniques, and Giverny were all great!"

Raymond

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great tour guide, bus driver, travel mates and itinerary.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Many wow moments. The best was when reflecting on and looking at pictures of how much we saw and did on our trip."

John

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

My overall experience was great. A good selection of sites and locations.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint Michele. One of the few places on the tour I have not previously visited and always wanted to see. Very Impressive. I also thoroughly enjoyed the wine tasting in Touraine Chenonceaux. The owner was very informative and gave his delivery like a standup comic. I felt like I learned something about wine making and at the same time enjoyed the presentation. I have been to some other wine tastings where it was so technical and dry I really came away with nothing I could remember. "

Alison

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"wine tasting. "

Lori

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This is a fast paced tour. I felt like I was being rushed from one place to another. Having said that, I did enjoy the diverse itinerary - Paris (what is not to like about Paris?), the Loire Valley, Mont Saint Michel, the Normandy beaches and Monet's house and gardens at Giverny. As a solo traveler, I saw places I would never have been able to see on my own. My fellow tour members were all great and it was fun traveling with them. Our guide, Julie, was wonderful!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint Michel was my "wow" moment. Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, it is a technical and artistic tour de force. The visits to the various D-Day sights were a whole different level of "wow" and a solemn reminder of our past and what we cannot allow to occur in our future."

Joan

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Paris was great but we enjoyed the countryside with all the chateaux, cathedrals, and lovely scenery. Food was good. We particularly enjoyed the wine tasting with Nicholas! And our guide Julie kept us all on track.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Monet's home and peaceful gardens were beautiful but Taps at American Cemetery remains our most memorable experience."

Seth

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Great group, great tour leader, great experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Watching the twinkling illumination of the Eiffel Tower in the rain on the last evening of the tour. "

Gerald

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first tour of any kind and we had a wonderful experience. Julie was extremely knowledgeable and skilled at herding 26 individuals through northern France. The accommodations were great and the provided food excellent. Tours are fast paced and you don't always get to spend as much time as you would like at a stop, but I appreciate being able to see so much in this amount of time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Listening to the monks sing morning prayers at the abbey of Mont St. Michelle."

Donna

Tour: 10/17/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I enjoyed the tour but thought the itinerary was too ambitious and tried to cover too much. Would have liked more time at fewer sites or ideally, a longer tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St-Michel was very impressive, sadly no longer illuminated at night. The wine tasting in Touraine Chenonceaux was fun and informative."

Tami

Tour: 10/13/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was my first trip to Europe and I'm really glad I joined a tour group with a great guide. It made me feel more comfortable with events, especially in Paris.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My wow moment was visiting Chenonceau. It was very beautiful and serene. This was my favorite tour stop in France."

Bruce

Tour: 10/13/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Veronique was outstanding !!! She is a Historian of France , she kept us informed explained everything wonderfully! We were sad when the tour ended.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michael and Normandy especially the Cemetery in Normandy very humbling."

Leigh Ann

Tour: 10/13/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

As a single traveler, I enjoyed having so many people to share my trip with. Everyone was friendly and I never ate alone!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I took this tour for the Loire valley and the chateaux. Seeing fresh flowers, so creatively arranged at Chenonceau Chateau was the best for me. "

Joanne

Tour: 10/13/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was a great fast moving tour. The group was really friendly and everyone got alone great and were true Rick Steves travelers. Our guide Veronique was excellent!!!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Bayeux tapestries and Monet's Gardens at Giverny were my two wow moments. They have been 2 members of my bucket list for a very long time."

Daniel

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Great group and our guide, Rebecca, was very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the trip. Like most Rick Steves tours this one was busy with every day packed with activities. We had been to Paris before so the tour outside of the city was fantastic. The cathedral at Bourges was amazing as well as the wine tasting the next day at Chateau de Selles sur Cher. I also enjoyed the early Sunday morning (no crowds) visit at Chateau de Chenonceau. Overall, I had a fantastic time on the trip!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but for me, as a history nut, the day spent at the Normandy D-Day beaches (Utah & Omaha) was by favorite "wow" moment even though the weather was raw (damp & windy). Later, at the Normandy US cemetery we witnessed the US flag being lowered at 4:00 PM while taps were being played. Such an emotional moment! Surprisingly, I really enjoyed Monet's home in Giverny the next day but for different reasons in that it was a beautiful sunny day, and the gardens were in bloom."

Richard

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

IMO, the quality of the Guide determines the quality of a tour. Rebecca Berry is the Absolute Best! Because of her, my tour was a fantastic and memorable one.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Learning that French culture and etiquette are more formal that ours. Greet and acknowledge them properly and they welcome us Americans."

Anne

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a great time! We felt the timing for the sites was outstanding, and we did not hit the typical crows.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing the beautiful sunset at Mont San Michel was a bucket list item for me. It was gorgeous and I will never forget sharing that moment, toasting our fellow travelers and our wonderful guide, Rebecca. "

Kai

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide Rebecca was absolutely outstanding, as was the entire itinerary!! Each of the local guides, as well as our driver Joost were also fantastic.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Chateau de Chenonceau!! The tour did a wonderful job with giving us time to explore each site on our own as well as giving us background and advice on what to see. "

Frank

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was an excellent itinerary and Rebecca was an excellent guide.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"When all of the tourists left Mont St. Michel and we were able to spend the night."

Michael

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

this is my 12th rs tour. this is the only tour i couldn't complete due to covid. i had to leave midway through. still i enjoyed the first part of the tour, the director & the people that were on the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"i was looking forward to mont st michele, normandy & monet garden. i got sick before i could do any of this, so i feel like i missed the wow moment."

Lisa

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Well organized, great accommodations in the right locations, excellent guide as well as extra guides along the way, well paced, and a nice amount of free time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint-Michel overnight. Attended the 7:00 am service. "

Suzanne

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was fabulous! It was very well organized, our tour director, Rebecca, was awesome. She really did make the trip everything I wanted and more. She added a couple of unexpected surprises. The tour covered alot of attractions, hotels and meals provided were very good.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were many but if I had to pick just one I would have to say the stay on Mont St Michel. As we arrived, the day trippers were leaving. It really did feel like we had the island to ourselves. It was quite something to see the tide come in during our stay and be surrounded by water. I attended the morning laudes and that was quite an experience."

Rick

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Tour Guide Rebecca was outstanding! Her organization, commentary, personality and sincere caring for tour members was excellent.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Guedelon Castle construction site was unique and educational and set the stage for appreciating the historic chateaus and castles we later visited."

George

Tour: 10/10/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very educational.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St. Michel"

Marie

Tour: 10/06/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Everything was wonderful, all of the hotels were very nice. We did not have any problems and completely enjoyed our time on tour

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I can’t pick one single moment. We spent several days in Paris ahead of the tour and that was very helpful. I’ve been raving to everyone since we’ve returned about how magical Paris is. I can’t wait to go back"

Mary

Tour: 10/06/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The group was congenial, Arnaud shared his encyclopedic knowledge with us in an accessible way, and we saw a good variety of things over the 11 days. And the weather was perfect! Not that Rick Steves is responsible for sunshine, but it did add to the enjoyment to be able to sit outside well into October. We appreciate the balance between group time and free time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I have to narrow it down to the top four: seeing the castle under construction using 13th-century methods, Leonardo daVinci's last house (an optional activity), Laudes at Mont St. Michel (also optional, but it wouldn't have happened had we not spent the night there) and the D-Day sites."

Deborah

Tour: 10/06/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first R Steves tour and was outstanding. Our guide Arnaud was fabulous, giving us insight into not only the places we visited, but also French life. There was a really good mix of group time and personal time. We had experiences we never would have known about if we had traveled alone. Hotels were very good and the pace was steady but not grueling in any way. We’re in our 60s and had no trouble. A very well-planned tour. Incredible how much we saw and learned.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"So many. Loved the walking tour of Paris, discovering markets and neighborhoods, including a cheese tasting. Quite a unique experience staying on Mont St. Michel. Eating oysters right out of the ocean. No words to describe the day on the D-day beaches. Each of our local guides were wonderful in addition to our overall guide Arnaud. I guess our wow was at the end of the tour when we realized just how many unique experiences we had enjoyed. "

Barbara

Tour: 10/06/23

Overall rating: rating 3 of 5

Two days after we arrived the war in Israel broke out! The news and protests affected the atmosphere for me. Also the bed bug news came out the week before we left! And Covid was on the upswing as well. We masked when we were on the bus, in the metro, or when in a crowded place. Half of our fellow travelers did not. Also, the World Cup for Rugby was going on. The bar across from our lovely hotel had parties going on until 6AM two nights in a row!!! So there was this feeling of unease.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Early morning service with the nuns and monks at Mont St, Michel."

Michael

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This is our fifth Rick Steves Tour, and like the others, we were not disappointed. Our guide, Linda Benoit-Bealing was an absolute delight who provide in-depth information about France history and culture with a spark of humor to keep our attention. The itinerary was outstanding giving us great exposure to other beautiful and interesting aspects of France outside of Paris. There was a nice balance of group and on your own time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to pick just one. Mont St. Michel in the early morning and attending the morning prayers was beautiful and inspiring. Visiting and learning about the Normandy D-Day events was eye-opening and moving. "

Priscilla

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Very educational, amazing sites, wonderful group. Our. Guide Linda was absolutely wonderful her knowledge, personality and humor was outstanding. Bus driver and the bus Were great. I was not impressed by a couple of hotels, although the service was good.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The drive up to my favorite Mont St. Michele And Normandy beaches and the guide Dale"

Robert

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The overall experience was quite amazing the stops and overnights were all great and well planned. Our tour guide Linda was phenomenal and amazing in every way. The hotels were all good as well.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite wow moment for the tour was at mont Saint-Michel. Just the overall experience was ethereal and life changing. What made the difference there was being able to stay overnight there. To be able to walk down the streets alone at night and early morning was truly life changing."

Laura

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was amazing. The activities and dinners were some of the best I’ve done on a tour. The highlights were the visit to Mount Saint Michel and the wine tasting experience. The D-Day experience was amazing because the special guide was superb.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My favorite wow moment was attending the morning service at Mount Saint Michel. My son lives in Jerusalem, and the timing of the service was perfect for much needed solace, and reflection."

William

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Although we were a little slow in walking, we were well looked after on the tour. Great trip to the importance places of Northern France.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I was totally swept away by attending the early morning service in the Abbey on Mt. Saint Michel. The monks and sisters singing in perfect pitch will play in my ears for the rest of my life."

Kristin

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was excellent. I thought we spent enough time in most venues for a good over view of the subject & the area..

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy. You can view the pictures, but to actually be there & walk on those beaches & see the cemetery is very humbling. Realizing what happened there & what was accomplished at such great cost.is amazing."

Gary

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

One of the reasons we took the Rick Steve's tour years for excellent and Get a feel for.the true French experience. The trip did an excellent job of accomplishing both of these. Linda and the rest of the guides it's did a superior job. The site selection was perfect to get a feel for the great spots in that part, of France. The tour also provided the best balance betwin scheduled and free time.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy"

Lori

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was amazing! Wonderful guides, great group, and fantastic sights.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to narrow down to one “wow” movement. The day spent at Normandy with our local guide stands out followed closely by spending the night on Mont St. Michel. "

Margaret

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a great time seeing some wonderful sights within France.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"We loved seeing Mont St Michel. The sight from the bus as we were approaching it was amazing and just seeing how it was constructed on a little spit of land was crazy!"

Lisa

Tour: 10/03/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour gave my daughter and me a lifetime of experiences together that we will treasure. Everything was amazing - our Tour Guide Linda, our bus driver Peter, our tour mates and the weather. Every day we experienced a new slice of France that immersed us into the sights, the food, the people and the culture. We truly felt like we were living like a local.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"It is difficult to pick just one as every day was wonderful. So I will choose 2 - climbing to the top of Mont Saint Michael early in the morning to hear the monks sing morning prayers and Dale leading our tour of the D-Day beaches and the invasion in Normandy."

Teresa

Tour: 09/29/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Maria was an excellent, excellent tour guide! We had a wonderful group of people on the tour. Our planned outings were excellent. Excellent local guides. Each year the hotels are better and better. Lots of meals included. Scenery was gorgeous. We even had sunny days!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many to choose from. Going to the service on Mount St-Michel listening to Monks & Nuns sing, but many other wow moments."

Steven

Tour: 09/29/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

From the introductory meeting on, tour guide Marie was first rate. She was organized, knowledgeable, gracious. Marie managed the activity flow with seamless efficiency. Accolades to genial bus driver Hans. He navigated the Paris traffic madness and narrow medieval village passageways with equal skill. Good mix of organized events and free time. When there were no planned ventures, Marie provided multiple options complete with transportation details. And such a great group of travel companions.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Lowering of the Stars and Stripes at the American cemetery Normandy. Nothing more needs to be said."

Peggy

Tour: 09/29/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I really enjoyed the Heart of France tour. Our guide Marie was great and the bus driver Hans always greeted us with a smile. The other tour members were all friendly and I think we connected well as a group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The tour has a big variety of sights, from the medieval castle construction to Loire Valley chateaus to Mont Saint-Michel and the Normandy Beaches. The remains of the British constructed harbor at Gold Beach really made an impact on me."

Paula

Tour: 09/29/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We were very pleased! The guide, bus driver, and our fellow travelers made this a wonderful experience. Everyone was considerate and helpful.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The gardens at Giverney and Morning Prayers at Mont Ste.-Michel"

Kathy

Tour: 09/29/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Marie was a knowledgeable and fun guide that exposed us to many wonderful sites. There were many peak experiences. It was well planned and without a hitch. I loved the stress free travel and all I had to do was show up and enjoy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were too many, however favorites were Monet’s garden, all the small towns, beaches of Normandy, just to name a few. "

Donna

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Incredibly well-organized. Perfect balance of making things easy for us while respecting our maturity and independence

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Picnic at Chateau de Selles sur Cher with food we'd bought at the market "

Dede

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

All expectations were met with a few surprises sprinkled over to enhance our experiences (cookies on the bus, a Kir served at dinner, fresh cheeses and fruits while strolling along on our neighborhood walk). Our structured time was informative and educational. Our group moved efficiently from one point of interest to the next with some time included to venture out on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Every destination packed a "wow" moment or multiple "wow" moments... to include 1) all the monuments which is a collective of the the cathedrals, castles, abbeys, towers, cemetaries, chateaus and museams 2) all the gardens, especially Monet's 3) the winery day 4) all the delicious meals, wines, ciders, pastries and desserts 5) discovering and participating in a style of living that is vastly different from our own 6) the stone masonry and wide aray of architectural styles and details."

Susan

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Tour itinerary and guides were excellent.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Normandy"

Michelle

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This tour was a great value, making the most of every minute of 11 days! The tour members were positive, on time, and eager to learn and do. Rebecca, our guide, kept us on our toes! Every day had a highlight, no day had a unwelcome surprise. I loved learning on the coach and putting that learning in context in the sites we visited. The mixture of humor and history and language and grammar and culture contributed to an outstanding tour experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I had two "wow" moments. 1. Floating over the Loire Valley in a hot air balloon on a golden sunny fall afternoon. 2. Experiencing the early morning Laudes service at Mont Saint-Michel. Neither experience was part of the tour, rather facilitated or suggested by Rebecca :-)."

Ellen

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

My husband and I were celebrating our tenth wedding anniversary and we couldn’t have done it better! We hit the jackpot with our guide, Rebecca , and our fellow travelers. From the bustle of Paris to the peace of the Loire Valley our trip was perfection.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Our experience visiting Mont St-Michel was certainly a “wow” moment. The beauty and history of that place was magical and we were able to enjoy it as an exclusive experience because we stayed the night while the crowds vacated the island. "

Thomas

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Perfect! A knowledgeable and delightful tour guide (Rebecca), totally compatible tour members, and France!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"In addition to the daily witticisms of our tour guide, Mont Saint-Michel and the Normandy day were beyond "wow". "

Sandi

Tour: 09/26/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Rebecca was an excellent guide and we went to some amazing places.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Too many "WOW" moments to list "

Bill

Tour: 09/22/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our tour guide, Veronique, was outstanding!!! Knowledgeable, patient, fun and always upbeat. I liked most of the itinerary-Paris was amazing- Medivial Guiedelon was my least favorite-- way too much time spent here-- Loved Bourges and its cathedral-the Loire Valley timed so well-Amboise a picturesque town -Mont St. Michel wonderful but guide hard to understand and too detailed. Normandy fabulous-great guide, knowledgeable and entertaining-Giverny wonderful but too crowded Sunday afternoon.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were several "wow" moments. We loved the Cathedral in Bourges--it was breath taking- We were also was so entertained by our tour and wine tasting at Chateau sur Cher by it's owner--a special experience-Our room at Mont St. Michel was amazing overlooking the water and a beautiful church. Our room in Arromanches was stunning. An ocean view with the sound of lapping waves at night."

Denise

Tour: 09/22/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our guide, Veronique, was outstanding. She cared about us, gave an excellent understanding of the French people, and easy to understand backgrounds on the sites we visited. She was an excellent speaker and also knew when to be quiet so we could rest. We cannot say enough positives about her. The bus was comfortable and our driver was excellent. Most of the sites were excellent and worthwhile to visit. The whisper system was great to be able to not miss anything. We had a friendly group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The gardens at Giverny were jaw dropping. The colors, variety, art, water features and expansiveness created a setting well beyond our expectations. We really felt Monet’s presence in his creation and where his water lilies paintings come to life! We would love to see it again in the springtime."

Mary

Tour: 09/22/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

I enjoyed the itinerary, hotels and guides for the most part. Even though I traveled with a great group of people, I think 28 is too large of a group.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My first good view of Mont St. Michel"

Robert

Tour: 09/22/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Seeing the sights of Paris was great. Enjoying the small towns like Bourges and Amboise gave us the feel of French countryside living. Wine tasting at Chateau de Selles sur Cher was a highlight. Mont St Michel did take your breath way walking up to it by its beauty and the stairs. Being a gardener, seeing Monet's Gardens at Giverny were truly beautiful and made me want to get home to attend to mine. Veronique was our most favorite guide from all of our Rick Steves Tours.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St Michel was so impressive, but seeing Normandy, Utah and Omaha beaches was our WOW moment. Hearing about and seeing what our troops went through to protect our freedoms made us proud and sad at the same time. They truly were the greatest generation."

Janet

Tour: 09/22/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Excellent tour with many jaw dropping moments. Sort of like a tasting menu with small samples of many wonderful towns and sites. And of course staying overnight on Mont St Michel. Our tour director Veronique was fabulous.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont St Michel from the distance for the 1st time. "

Cathy

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

We had a phenomenal guide, Julie. She helped us relax, kept us informed and and enjoy what we saw. The tour group members were so very friendly. We liked the bustle of Paris and loved the calmness of the French countryside. We enjoyed the breads, pastries, crepes, and sauces of France. A great experience as we became more knowledgeable and experienced the culture. We could not have asked for anything more, except more days there.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"My husband's wow moment was Mont St.Michel. My wow moment was Monet's garden and home."

Margarida

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It is easy to be seduced by Paris and the French way of enjoying life. The History and monuments are there to enjoy and teach at every turn.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Hard to choose just one. Mont St. Michel because it was on our bucket list. Normandy D-Day Beaches because it gives pause and warns us of history lessons I hope we do not repeat."

Paula

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

It was a phenomenal tour. Our guide was helpful and knowledgeable, the timing at each stop was just enough time, and we were very pleased with all the shared meals. Some hotels were very nice, some were quirky, but we were pleased with the service at all of them

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were so many! Seeing the Eiffel Tower ‘sparkle at night.’ Mount St. Michel- our guide let us know that the monks and nuns sing mass at 6:50 am, so we walked up to see the sunrise and hear mass. The gardens at Giverney. Winged Victory at the Louvre"

Terence

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

I’ve been to France many times, but this was special because I was able to travel with my children. They loved the tour. Our tour guide, Julie, was terrific. She set the tone from the very beginning of the tour. Be friendly, happy, and have a good time. And we did because of her. Also, she is a fount of information.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Being in the Parc Champs de Mars at night and seeing the twinkly lights of the Eiffel Tower is always a WOW moment."

Rosemarie

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was so well planned, included important well-known sites as well as the less well know such as Amboise, Guedelon, Bourge. Excellent group activities and opportunities for independent discovery. Wonderful group of travelers. The tour itinerary really immersed us in the beauty, history and culture of France. Our tour director, Julie, was excellent. Our local guides added so much to the tour.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Wow! So many - The city of Paris, sidewalk cafes, Notre Dame, the French people we met, Winged Victory, riding the Metro and getting back to our hotel. Watching the Eiffel Tower sparkle at night. Our time is Normandy was a highpoint and our local guide gave a front row seat to the historical details as we walked on this sacred ground. (My father in law was at Omaha Beach 79 years ago.) So moving. "

Jean

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

First time traveller with Rick Steves and I was very impressed with our guide Julie plus the balance between tour activities and free time. The tour description was very accurate; amount of walking - moderate, strenuous, etc.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St Michel - I can't begin to describe and the pictures don't really do it justice. How it was built into the side of rock is unbelievable - no wonder it took so long to build. Equally "wow" was our tour day in Normandy and the American cemetery there. "

Charles

Tour: 09/19/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Hayley

Tour: 09/15/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Amazing tour and diverse experience of France

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Visiting the Chateaux's in the Loire Valley- simply amazing"

Janice

Tour: 09/15/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

We enjoyed meeting a very nice group of people to spend the week with. The places we went were varied and interesting. Linda was lots of fun and full of interesting information for each venue. We loved our bus driver, and were amazed at his skill on those narrow streets. The restaurant were good, with the exception of the one on Mont St-Michel. Our lamb and chicken were dry, and there didn't seem to be enough staff.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I loved Chenonceau. It was warm and inviting and I really enjoyed all the fresh flower arrangements."

Sandra

Tour: 09/15/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

the whole tour was exceptional from meeting the other tour members, the helpful, very informative guide, who was often very funny. The hotels were always located in the center of the action and made it easy to go exploring on our own. The food was very good and we were given choices when necessary. I got to see places that were important to me and that made it very special. The other tour members were friendly and went out of their way to include me, an older, single traveler.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"I actually had two. One was staying on Mt. Sant Michel over night without the crowds and enjoying the peacefulness and quiet of the little town. The other was the Bayeau Tapestry. As a person who does needle work, I was stunned by the incredible detail of the work often done by candle light. It was a joy to see it in person."

Greg

Tour: 09/15/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Our tour guide, Linda, was very knowledgeable about the locations we visited. She had a great sense of humor that made the tour that much more enjoyable. We experienced so many sites we would not have visited on our own.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Seeing Mont Saint Michele as we approached it by bus was awe inspiring. Spending the night there was an added bonus. The beaches of Normandy and grave sites were a moving experience. Much different than I had perceived."

Carol

Tour: 09/12/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The tour was wonderful! It tied in some of our experiences from our Southern England Tour last spring as well as some longtime goals to see the D-day sites and still included many unexpected experiences. Our guide was Patrick, and he made the tour so much better with his knowledge, wit, enthusiasm and sense of humor. He obviously loves his country.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Like previously stated, we had done the Southern England Tour last spring so seeing the Bayeux Tapestry was great after having previously visited the Battle of Hastings site. Also going to see and spending the night at Mont Saint-Michel was terrific after having also visited Saint Michael's Mount on the England side. But topping them all was the D-day sites and especially the Omaha Beach Cemetery. We stayed until they played taps and lowered the flags - and absolute must!"

Rod

Tour: 09/08/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

The itinerary was well planned and our guide (Guilliam) was great. He was entertaining and gave us his honest perspective on the history French experience.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"The Normandy experience was incredibly moving because of our history. The ability to visit and stay at Chateau Mont Saint Michel was a real bonus."

Michael

Tour: 09/08/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Enjoyed all the places we visited; which included a nice mix of urban, small villages and historic sites and castles. The tours were informational; whimsical when appropriate and serious when appropriate. Very nice balance between structured and free time. Our guide, Guillaume, was knowledgeable and fun. Rudy was an awesome driver on a comfortable coach.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"There were two. The beaches of Normandy; more specifically learning more about what transpired before, during and after D day. Being there allowed me to really visualize the history I was hearing on the tour and what I had viewed in historical films. Second was being able to listen/witness morning prayer at the abbey on Mont-Saint-Michel. Beautiful voices with tremendous acoustics. Very moving. "

Anne

Tour: 09/08/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our first Rick Steves tour and did not disappoint. Guillaume was our tour guide and he did a wonderful job. Loved the mix of Paris (tour and time on our own) as well as seeing other smaller towns as well as highlights of Normandy and Mont St. Michel. We were fortunate our group stayed healthy.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Highlights for me were our stay in Arromanches on Gold Beach and full day in Normandy; Climbing Arc de Triomphe and seeing a "market" street on Sunday morning in Paris; and stumbling into the Luxembourg Gardens on our first day and seeing all the locals having lunch. Also enjoyed seeing the Bayeux Tapestry and would have liked more time in Bayeux. The informal Happy Hours with our tour group in Ambroise and Arromanches were added bonuses!"

Jenny

Tour: 09/08/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was a well planned tour that allowed me to see many sites on my bucket list. Our guide, Guillaume did a great job. He was organized, knowledgeable, approachable, and fun! I also enjoyed the little extras that I didn’t know would happen, the wine and goat cheese tasting at Selles-sur-Cher chateau, quiche, apple tart, and cider at Guedelon, lunch breaks in little towns along our way, and happy hour on the banks of the Loire to name a few! All the local guides were excellent.

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont Saint Michel (and getting to stay on the mont,) Normandy day ending at the American Cemetery, and Monet’s gardens. But the whole tour was terrific."

Joyce

Tour: 09/08/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

This was our first time on a Rick Steves tour because we usually plan our own itineraries while traveling. However, your Paris and the Heart of France tour made all the stops we wanted to make plus many others that we would have missed if traveling on our own. In addition, there was plenty of free time built into the schedule so we could customize our experience. Bravo Rick Steves! We’re already looking at your other destinations for our next trip!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"This is a very tough question because there were several: approaching Mount St. Michel, attending laudes at the abbey, stepping onto Utah and Omaha beaches, the American Cemetary in Normandy and seeing Monet’s water lilies. "

Timothy

Tour: 09/05/23

Overall rating: rating 4 of 5

Favorite "WOW" moment

"No wow moment and that was a disappointment as we had wow moments on past RS tours in Italy. "

Michael

Tour: 09/05/23

Overall rating: rating 5 of 5

Our tour was fun and informative…Our guide Rebecca was so kind and helpful as well as funny. All the local guides were great!

Favorite "WOW" moment

"Mont St Michel was amazing "

When To Go & Weather

Any time between April and October is a good time to take a Paris & the Heart of France tour. However, the months of April, May, September, and October are best for combining the convenience of peak season with generally good weather and lighter crowds.

France / Paris

Paris Weather

Hotels & Flights

Tour Hotels

In case you wish to book pre- or post-tour hotel accommodations, the contact information for the tour's first and last hotels is included in your tour confirmation email, as well as in the Itinerary section of your online customer account. One month prior to the tour departure, you'll find the directions to your first tour hotel and a complete list of hotels where we'll be staying in the Documents section of your customer account.

Flights

Our tours don't include airfare, so your flight arrangements are completely up to you.

Most tour members arrange to fly in and out of Paris' Charles de Gaulle (CDG) or Orly (ORY) airports.

We suggest arriving a day or two before your tour begins to allow ample time to get over jet lag and be well-rested for the first few days of your tour. For more information about transportation options for getting to and from your tour, see your Rick Steves France guidebook.