DESTINATION

ITINERARY

Day 1: Monday April 29 2024- Departure from the USA on your overnight flight to France. (Airfare is not included – Land only program)

Day 2: Tuesday April 30 – Paris! Welcome to France. Upon arrival, proceed through customs and collect your luggage. A Jet Vacations professional guide will personally greet you. One group transfer by 11:30 am from the Airport by deluxe coach to your hotel centrally located in Paris. Balance of the day at leisure. For passengers arriving after 11:30 am in Paris airport please make your own way to the hotel. Tonight, join us for a Welcome Dinner in Paris. Overnight in Paris. (Dinner)

Day 3: Wednesday May 1 – Paris day at leisure: Breakfast at the hotel. Day at leisure. May 1st is a public holiday in France some museums will be open in Paris and Local transportation will run as well. Or optional tours available upon request . Overnight in Paris (Breakfast)

Day 4: Thursday May 2 – Giverny The Monet House & Garden – Rouen & Joan of Arc: Begin your day with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided tour to the picturesque village of Giverny. Here, your knowledgeable guide will accompany you to explore the former residence of the renowned artist Claude Monet, celebrated for his breathtaking gardens that continue to inspire art enthusiasts worldwide. Following a delightful lunch, our journey proceeds to the historic city of Rouen, a place deeply entwined with the legacy of Joan of Arc. It was in Rouen where the courageous Joan was apprehended and subsequently subjected to a significant trial that would forever mark her place in history. During our time in Rouen, we will pay a visit to the very location where her tragic execution took place - the Old Market Square. Moreover, we will have the privilege of admiring the awe-inspiring Rouen Cathedral, a magnificent architectural marvel. To deepen our understanding of Joan's trial and her enduring impact, we will immerse ourselves in the rich history and exhibits at the Jeanne d'Arc Museum. In Rouen, where the pivotal events of Joan's trial unfolded in 1431, we will seize the opportunity to witness the remnants of Chateau de Bouvreuil, the place of her imprisonment. Additionally, we will explore the historic Abbey of Saint-Ouen, the site of Joan's public recantation. Our reverence for her extraordinary courage and sacrifice will be paid at the Old Market Square, where Joan met her tragic fate through public immolation. As the day progresses, we will return to our comfortable hotel in the vibrant city of Paris. Here, you can unwind and enjoy the evening at your leisure, reflecting on the rich history and experiences of the day. Your overnight stay in Paris promises further exploration and adventure in the days to come. Overnight in Paris. (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 5: Friday May 3 – Paris day at leisure: Breakfast at the hotel. Day at leisure – or optional tour available upon request. Overnight in Paris (Breakfast)

Day 6: Saturday May 4: Orleans and Joan of Arc:
Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your guide and driver as you leave the bustling city behind. As you embark on your journey, you will be treated to a captivating visual spectacle of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming villages that punctuate the landscape. Gaze out of the window as you pass by picturesque stone cottages and rustic farmhouses, each one a silent witness to a bygone era. This enchanting expedition takes you alongside the historic Loire River, a legendary watercourse that has borne witness to centuries of significant events. During your voyage, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of Joan of Arc's remarkable story and the prominent historical figures associated with Orleans. You'll learn about Isabelle Romée, Joan of Arc's mother, Pierre du Lys, one of her brothers and comrades in arms, and La Hire, the Bastard of Orleans, a son of the Duke of Orleans. Immerse yourself in the enduring heritage of the Middle Ages that still echoes through the streets of Orleans. Discover the very places where Joan of Arc traversed and pivotal military events unfolded, including Bourgogne Street and the Battle of des Tourelles. You'll also have the opportunity to visit the reconstructed house of Jacques Boucher, Treasurer General to the Duke of Orleans, which served as Joan of Arc's residence during her stay in the city. As you arrive in Orleans, you'll be welcomed by the city's warm and inviting atmosphere. Its cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses create an ambiance straight out of a medieval fairy tale. Follow in the footsteps of the legendary Joan of Arc as you explore historical sites and museums dedicated to her remarkable life. Pay a visit to the magnificent Orleans Cathedral, a place of solace and reflection that played a significant role in the young heroine's journey. Enjoy some free time for a delightful lunch. In the evening, you will travel back to Paris, where you will have the opportunity to spend your evening at leisure, savoring the enchanting memories of your day's adventure in Orleans and the rich tapestry of French history and culture you've experienced. Evening at leisure. Overnight in Paris (Breakfast)

Day 7: Sunday May 5 Day trip to Reims Coronation: Breakfast at the hotel. Meet your knowledgeable guide and experienced driver as you embark on a captivating journey to Reims, a charming city nestled in the heart of the Champagne Region of France. Our first stop will be at the renowned Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, a true masterpiece of Gothic architecture that holds a special place in European history. This 13th-century marvel, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site, stands out for its distinctive features, including its mesmerizing lighting, exquisite statuary, and remarkable unity of design. Notre-Dame Cathedral boasts an impressive collection of statuary, comprising a staggering 2,303 statues. Among these, you'll find the famous Smiling Angel, whose cheerful countenance captures the spirit of the 13th-century Champagne School of artistry. In the French language, "Notre Dame" translates to "Our Lady," bestowing upon the cathedral its full name, "Our Lady of Reims." A pivotal moment in history unfolded within these hallowed walls on July 17, 1429, when Joan of Arc achieved the zenith of her illustrious career. It was on this fateful day that Charles VII was anointed as the King of France during a solemn ceremony held at the Cathedral of Reims. Joan's devotion was palpable as she knelt before Charles, embracing his legs, tears of joy in her eyes, and uttered these profound words: "Noble King, the divine will has been fulfilled, for I was chosen to lift the siege of Orleans and to escort you to the city of Reims for your sacred coronation. This signifies that you are the rightful and true King, the one destined to ascend the throne of France." It's worth noting that throughout history, every monarch of France received their coronation within the magnificent confines of Reims Cathedral. We can't leave the region without visiting and savoring some of the finest Champagne, all while gaining insights into the meticulous "Méthode Champenoise," followed by a delightful traditional French lunch. As the day draws to a close, we will be traveling back to Paris, where you can enjoy your evening at leisure. Overnight in Paris (Breakfast, Lunch)

Day 8: Monday May 6 – Paris:
Breakfast at the hotel. Day at leisure. Tonight, joins us for a Farewell dinner . Overnight in Paris (Breakfast, Dinner)

Day 9: Tuesday May 7 – Paris-USA.: Breakfast at the hotel. Today departure at 9:00 am one group transfer to the airport filed with wonderful memories of France and Joanne of Arc ! For passengers leaving earlier or later please make your own arrangement to the airport. (Airfare is not included – Land only program)