Paris to the Southwest of France

Arrival in Paris

Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), you will be greeted by your private chauffeur who will drive you to your hotel in the heart of Paris. Take the time during that first day in the capital to discover littles cobblestones streets thanks to our suggestions. You could catch glimpses of iconic landmarks (such as the Eiffel Tower, Le Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe or Les Champs Elysées), setting the stage for your Parisian adventure.

Introduction to Paris

Enjoy a leisurely morning exploring the city of lights at your own pace, taking in the charming cobblestone streets of Montmartre or the Latin Quarter for example. In the afternoon, meet your guide for a private guided tour of the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station. Inside, you will discover works by renowned artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Renoir from different centuries.

Departure for Bordeaux

Time to start this customizable adventure in the Southwest of France between Bordeaux and Carcassonne! In the morning, private transfer from your hotel to the train station. Enjoy a lovely journey through the countryside thanks to your first-class train ticket. Arriving in Bordeaux, you will find yourself immersed in a city renowned for its elegant 18th-century architecture, UNESCO-listed urban ensemble, and vibrant quays along the Garonne River.

Take time to relax in your hotel based in the historic heart of the city and stroll along the charming Place de la Bourse. And why not enjoy a glass of wine or a delicious cocktail on a terrace overlooking the city ?

If you want to find out more about Bordeaux, visit our travel to France section.

Food tour in Bordeaux

Embark on a culinary exploration of Bordeaux, a city celebrated for its gastronomic delights. Accompanied by a guide, wander through bustling food markets like the Marché des Capucins, where you will sample local delicacies such as “canelés”, a traditional pastry. Continue your culinary journey with a visit to artisanal cheese shops and charcuteries, learning about the intricate flavors and traditions of Southwest France cuisine. Take advantage of this afternoon to unwind amidst Bordeaux’s stunning squares, allowing yourself to decompress while marveling at its unique architecture.

Welcome to the famous vineyards

For this fifth day, delve into the world of Bordeaux’s renowned vineyards with a passionate wine expert as your guide that will drive you around all day long. Discover picturesque landscapes adorned with sprawling vineyards, and stop at esteemed wineries such as Château Margaux and St Emilion.  Here, you will have the opportunity to taste a diverse selection of Bordeaux wines, from robust reds to crisp whites, while learning about the region’s winemaking heritage and terroir.

A cooking class in a chateau

Immerse yourself in the refined art of French cuisine with a cooking class set amidst the elegant surroundings of a Bordeaux chateau. Under the guidance of a skilled chef, learn to prepare classic dishes using locally sourced ingredients, such as succulent duck confit. After a delectable lunch, your chauffeur will drive you to Toulouse, the vibrant capital of Occitanie.

Guided city tour of Toulouse

In the morning, discover the rich tapestry of Toulouse’s history and culture on a guided city tour. Admire the distinctive pink-hued buildings that characterize the cityscape, earning Toulouse its nickname, “La Ville Rose” (The Pink City). Explore landmarks such as the majestic Capitole de Toulouse, a grand neoclassical building housing the city’s town hall and opera house, and the Basilica of Saint-Sernin, a UNESCO-listed Romanesque masterpiece. You could also visit one of Toulouse’s bustling markets with a local guide that will give you all the best advice. Explore stalls brimming with fresh produce, aromatic cheeses, and artisanal goods, engaging with local vendors and sampling regional specialties along the way. During the afternoon, take the time to relax.

Market visit and welcome to Carcassonne

For a enriching morning, make your way to the Les Abattoirs Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art and delve into a world of innovative artistic expression and unbridled creativity. Afterwards, your private chauffeur will drive you to Carcassonne, a fortified medieval town nestled within the picturesque landscapes of the Languedoc region. A magnificent 5-star hotel/château awaits you in the heart of the city, boasting medieval charm and elegance. This luxurious establishment features an outdoor swimming pool, offering a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling streets.

Walking tour of Carcassonne

Step back in time as you embark on a walking tour of Carcassonne’s medieval citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ramparts and fairy-tale charm. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets lined with quaint shops and cafés, marveling at the imposing fortifications and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. In the afternoon, you driver guide will take you to the Cathar region in order to visit Quéribus Castle, perched dramatically atop a rocky outcrop, offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Cucugnan village, where narrow cobblestone streets and centuries-old buildings transport you back in time.

Goodbye Southwest

Say goodbye to the enchanting landscapes of Carcassonne in the morning. Take the plane to come back to CDG to spend your last night.