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8
DAYS • 8 MEALS
Ah, Paris, “City of Lights,” international capital
of fashion and cornerstone of world history. Let the timeless
art, air of romance, fascinating culture and delectable
cuisine of the world’s most glamorous city tempt all
of your senses. |
Welcome
to Paris
To see Paris is to experience a cosmopolitan world that blends
fascinating architecture and historic achievements with a contemporary
flair. Mayflower Tours has created a magnificent itinerary, combining
scheduled tours with optional excursions, giving you ample time
to explore this pulsating city on your own.
Your hotel is the Mercure Montmartre, located in the heart of
Paris, with easy access to the Metro. Nearby is the 19th-century
Sacre Coeur, built atop Montmartre hill. This famous basilica
is considered the city’s white castle in the sky, the second
highest. point after the Eiffel Tower. The view from any perspective
is glorious, but be sure to stop inside and see the golden mosaics.
Champs-Elysees,
the Most Famous Street in the World
With cinemas, cafés, and luxury specialty shops standing
along a tree-lined boulevard, Champs-Elysees is considered the
the most beautiful avenue in the world. Will you shop for exotic
perfume? Designer purses? French wine? How about enjoying a cup
of latte and a croissant at a sidewalk cafe? Whatever your pleasure,
this chic street offers the ultimate in people-watching.
Arch de Triomphe –
Celebrating Napoleon’s Military Victories
Prominently situated at the head of the Champs-Elysees, this stately
monument was a vision of Napoleon’s, begun in 1806 and completed
after his death in 1836. Beneath the Arch today lies the Tomb
of the Unknown Soldier, France’s main war shrine. Don’t
miss the ceremonial lighting of the flame every night.
The Eiffel Tower – Symbol of a City
Built in 1889, this world famous landmark was named after its
designer, engineer Gustave Eiffel. More than six million people
visit this site every year and Mayflower Tours has arranged for
you to ascend to the second level and take in spectacular views
of the city.
Seine River Illumination Cruise
As the sun sets, Paris takes on a whole new life with brilliantly
illuminated monuments and squares at every turn. Join us for an
optional excursion down the Seine aboard a glass-domed boat where
you’ll see the breathtaking sights of the Eiffel Tower,
the Arc de Triomphe and Notre Dame, amid this “City of Lights.”
Your excursion also includes a short motorcoach ride to see more
of Paris at night.
The
Louvre Museum –
the World’s Largest Art Museum
While the Louvre is recognized for its famous works of art,
the Louvre and glass pyramid in the courtyard are impressive
pieces of architecture as well. With more than 350,000 works
inside, it has been said that if you looked at every piece for
only a minute, it would take you six months to see it all! Must-sees
on your morning visit include the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo and
Winged Victory of Samothrace.
Notre
Dame de Paris and Sainte Chapelle
An optional excursion will take you inside this magnificent
structure. Considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic
architecture in the world, the centuries-old cathedral will
simply take your breath away. One of the first buildings to
use flying buttresses, Notre Dame displays many sculptures and
beautiful stained glass, representing centuries of history.
Also included is a visit to La Sainte-Chapelle (The Holy Chapel),
a Gothic-style church featuring vaulted ceilings and ornate,
gold-crowned columns painted in vivid colors.
The
Palace of Versailles – Opulent
Home of Louis XIV, the Sun King
On an optional excursion, you’ll visit Versailles, the
official royal residence during the 17th and 18th centuries.
Just 12 miles outside of Paris, the Palace is a stunning example
of Classical Baroque architecture. The grand apartments are
lavish showplaces with beautiful ceiling frescos, sculptures
and opulent furnishings. The Hall of Mirrors, a ballroom lined
with huge mirrors to reflect the ceiling frescoes, continues
to dazzle. Outside, the lovely gardens with its meticulous manicured
lawns, unique designs and elegant fountains are considered the
most famous in the world.
Chateau Country – The Loire Valley
Join us for an optional excursion to the spectacular French
countryside. The Loire Valley has been the home of royalty since
the 10th century. You’ll stand in awe of magnificent castles,
wander through old world villages and embrace Renaissance history.
Da Vinci spent the last years of his life in Amboise. The village
of Chenonceau features a 16th-century chateau, designed by a
woman architect, Diane de Poitiers. One of the most recognizable
chateaus in the world because of its distinct French Renaissance
architecture is the Château de Chambord, the largest castle
in the Loire Valley. Your last stop is Château de Cheverny,
with its antique furnishings, tapestries, and objects d'art.
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
An optional excursion will take you to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte,
a classical French chateau, just outside of Paris. Built in
the 17th century, this chateau is considered one of the finest
in France because of its collaborative effort between an architect,
landscape artist and decorator, an innovative concept at the
time.
All too soon it’s time to leave this exquisite city, but
you’ll be filled with memories of your Parisian experience
that will last a lifetime.
|
2010
Depart USA |
per
person twin |
Single
Room
Add |
April
8, 15
|
$1,098
|
$695
|
| October
28 |
$1,098
|
$695
|
Call
for air rates and schedules from your city
to and from Paris, France
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For this tour, you are required to carry a valid passport
with an expiration date no less than six (6) months after
the scheduled return date.