Flavors of Northern France

Your journey begins on your overnight flight.

Welcome to France! If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, a friendly representative will meet you at the airport and transport you to your hotel. Tonight, get to know your fellow travelers and learn about the exciting days ahead at a welcome dinner. (D)

Your adventure begins with a 3-hour panoramic coach tour of the City of Light. Renowned as the most romantic city in the world, Paris is as pretty as the scrumptious pastries peeking from the windows of its famous bakeries. Historic architecture, elegant wide avenues, and sidewalk cafes covered by colorful awnings are the capital city’s signature sights. After the tour, enjoy lunch on your own in the Opera neighborhood surrounding the Louvre Museum. There are numerous world-class dining options within walking distance. Just be sure to end your meal with something sweet and “un café”. After lunch, you’ll transfer to Caen to begin your journey through Normandy. (B)

Today begins with a 2-hour walking tour of Caen, whose rich past makes it one of the region’s most appealing destinations. Dating back to the 11th century, when William the Conqueror called the city home, you’ll discover over 1,000 years of history including outside views of Caen Castle, St. Peter’s Church, and the Romanesque monastery of Abbaye-aux-hommes. Continue to Beuvron-en-Auge, known for its picturesque half-timbered houses, narrow streets, and quaint shops; it’s a true gem of rural France. Enjoy free time for lunch but be sure to leave room for a tasty activity at your next stop; the Graindorge Cheese Dairy! See how Normandy’s famous cheese is made, and taste Livarot, Pont-l’Évêque and Camembert de Normandie, as well as Neufchâtel; they’re four of Normandy’s most popular cheeses. (B)

Spend the day at the legendarily beautiful island community of Mont Saint-Michel. Located just off a bay of tidal flats, it features a towering medieval abbey, fortifications, and a charming village. You’ll tour the town, which is characterized by narrow alleys and traditional half-timbered houses. The streets are lined with a range of shops, cafes and restaurants, many of which offer stunning views of the bay and the surrounding countryside. From there, you can choose to enjoy more free time in the village, or for guests feeling a bit more adventurous, there’s a tour of Mont Saint-Michel’s towering abbey found atop a rocky outcrop at the highest point of the island. Afterward, head to one of the village’s best restaurants for a 2-course lunch (included) before returning to Caen. (B, L)

Spend the day in Caen on your own, or join us on a full day tour of Normandy’s WWII sites for an additional fee. You’ll travel back to June 6, 1944 at Utah Beach and Omaha Beach, and visit the Airborne Museum, and the Normandy American Cemetery as part of this exciting optional experience. (B, D)

Discover Rouen’s sights, sounds, and flavors during today’s highly enjoyable walking tour. Taste locally made products like pastries, chocolate, and cider while visiting the city’s most famous sites. In between food stops, you’ll see the Saint-Ouen Abbey, City Hall and Rouen Cathedral, as well as the 14th century Gros-Horloge astronomical clock, and the Joan of Arc church and tower. Spend the afternoon enjoying Rouen at your own pace, or join one of our exciting optional tours. (B)

Start the day in the exquisite historic seaside resort town of Deauville. It is known for its elegant architecture, luxurious hotels, and beautiful sandy beaches, as well as a vibrant cultural scene. Deauville was established in the 19th century as a fashionable destination for the French elite, and has maintained its reputation as a high-end holiday spot ever since. Your next stop is Trouville, which has a spectacular open-air market and is known for its fishing industry. Finally, tickle your tastebuds and discover the secrets behind the magnificent apple brandy known as Calvados at the storied Christian Drouin Calvados distillery. Christian Drouin has been producing Calvados since 1960. Set in a beautiful 17th-century estate surrounded by apple orchards, you’ll take a tour and a sample or two! Non-alcoholic apple cider is available. (B)

Begin your final day in Giverny, known as the gateway to Normandy. Start with a stop at the Monet Home and Gardens. Here you’ll tour the former home of the famous Impressionist painter, Claude Monet and learn about his artistic techniques, and his influence on the Impressionist movement. Continue to Paris for a delicious farewell feast on a Seine dinner cruise, where you can enjoy a gourmet meal while taking in the stunning views of the city from a unique perspective. The cruise typically lasts around two to three hours. (B, D)