14 DAY | Discover France
EXDFPP-7
This tour visits: France, Monaco
Leave no grand Parisian boulevard un-strolled; no rustic rural chateau unvisited;
no gorgeous French countryside unexplored; no fabulous wines left unopened;
and no delectable French dish uneaten on this epic discovery of France. From
touring the city lights of Paris to sampling your weight in cheese and marvelling
at the lavishness of Monaco, this so-Frenchy-so-chic trip will be an affair to
remember.
The Bucket List
More Inclusions
Visit UNESCO Heritage Site Mont St Michel
13 breakfasts, 5 dinners
Paris city driving tour
12 nights hotel accommodation (twin or double) & 1 night
Gourmet picnic beside the Eiffel Tower
in a Chateau
Wine tasting in Bordeaux
Modern air-conditioned coach with free Wi-Fi
Camembert Museum & tasting
Awesome Trip Leader + Driver
French Riviera perfumery experience
Stay in a Chateau
Visit the Pont du Gard
Trip Itinerary
Day 1 - Paris, France
All good things start with Paris. Meet the crew, dump your bags and Instagram your first selfie during the guided tour of the City of Lights.
Home to Coco Chanel, the Eiffel Tower and the Mona Lisa, Paris has more than earned its reputation as the European capital for all things
culture, fashion and food. Tonight, find out why.
Included today:
-Paris city driving tour
-Gourmet picnic under the Eiffel Tower
Meals:
-Dinner
Day 2 - Paris
This morning: get royal on an optional visit to the Palace of Versailles. Cue groomed gardens and over-the-top decor. Not feeling it? End your
day with an optional #throwback bohemian cabaret show.
Meals:
-Breakfast
Optional activities:
-Versailles visit
-Traditional cabaret show in the Latin Quarter
-Seine river cruise
Day 3 - Paris
This morning: free time en Francais. From the Louvre and Musée d'Orsay to the l'Arc de Triomphe and Champs Elysées, you'll be sure to
make a solid dent in your bucket list. Then: hop on an optional bike tour of Paris or roam the streets on your own. Take note: foodie tour also
available today (yay).
Meals:
-Breakfast
Optional activities:
-Paris bike tour
-Paris food tour
Day 4 - Paris to Bayeux
Gulp down that cafe au lait, we're off to Camembert to see if we can find anything to put on our baguettes. Arromanches next for a history
lesson on D-Day. Keen to learn? Hit up the Musée du Débarquement on the seafront. Refuel with a crepe or grab some souvenirs before we
head off to roam the medieval streets of Bayeux. Tonight's all yours.
Included today:
-Camembert visit
-Musée du Débarquement
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 5 - Bayeux to Loire Valley
Drop your jaw at the World Heritage-listed Mont Saint Michel commune, dating back all the way to 800AD. Talk about #throwback. Then:
more castle vibes in Loire Valley - we're overnighting in a chateau. But before you hit the sheets, a local feast in Montrichard. En route: snap
up some Instagram photos of the famed countryside and architecture. Your followers will thank you.
Included today:
-Mont Saint Michel visit (entrance to the Abbey at additional cost)
-Overnight stay at a French chateau
-Dinner in a local Montrichard restaurant
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Day 6 - Loire Valley to Bordeaux
Kick off the day at an epic Château. Pit stop for an optional mid-afternoon nightcap on a distillery tour and tasting in the Cognac region.
Bordeaux next. Endless vineyards, world-famous wine and a feast at Le Bistrot d'Edouard.
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Optional activities:
-Château visit
-Cognac tour and tasting
Day 7 - Bordeaux
Discover why the region is world famous for its fermented grapes. If that's not a reason to get out of bed, what is? Taste the range and pick
up some bottles to send home. Your future self will thank you. Explore the surrounding medieval town before we return to Bordeaux. Over
to you. We've cleared your schedule.
Included today:
-Winery tour and wine tasting
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 8 - Bordeaux to Carcassonne
Head off to the historic walled city for a real-life game of Carcassonne (the tile-based German-inspired game, keep up) and to see why it is
famed for its restored medieval fortress and the poetic sonnets written about it.
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 9 - Carcassonne to French Riveira
Check out the 2000-year-old Roman engineered aqueduct Pont du Gard this morning. Then get that selfie stick out as we roll along the coast
to rub shoulders with the rich and famous on the French Riviera. Chow down at a local restaurant before prowling the streets for celebrities.
Included today:
-Pont du Gard visit
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Day 10 - French Riviera including Monaco visit
Bring your paparazzi posse to the beach or let loose among the designer boutiques in Nice's Old Town. This afternoon, we'll hit up Eze for a
first-hand look into the world of French scent making on a guided tour of a 16th century factory.
Later: Roll with the jet set as we hit up Monaco for a guided tour and the chance to see how the 1% live (hint: it involves lots of fur and
bathing in caviar). Feeling lucky? Take to the tables at the Monte Carlo Casino and make it rain (or not).
Included today:
-Monaco visit and guided tour
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 11 - French Riviera to Annecy
Start off your day in Avignon, the former home of the popes. Then more OMG scenery as we head to the epic lakeside village Annecy on the
edge of the French Alps. Tick off Palais de l'Ile, Chateau d'Annecy and all the local hotspots this afternoon.
Included today:
-Avignon visit and walking tour
-Annecy walking tour
Meals:
-Breakfast
Day 12 - Annecy
You'll want to spend your free day outdoors – at least that's what the locals do. Lake Annecy is the purest lake in Europe, rocking the same
turquoise waters you thought you left at the French Riviera. See it for yourself on an optional cruise this afternoon. Also home to some of the
heartiest and hautest French cuisine (think fondue), let's just say you won't go hungry.
Meals:
-Breakfast
Optional activities:
-Lake Annecy cruise
Day 13 - Annecy to Lyon
You'll want your camera charged for today's drive through the French Alps. This afternoon: get acquainted with the city famed as the culinary
capital of France. You're looking out for Rosette de Lyon, quenelle and marron glace.
Included today:
-Walking tour of Lyon
Meals:
-Breakfast
-Dinner
Day 14 - Lyon to Paris
Like all good things, your trip has come to an end (though your waistline will thank you). Stick around for one last selfie. Teary goodbyes
optional.
Meals:
-Breakfast
Accommodation
We endeavour to select a combination of good quality hotels that reflect the character of the local area as well as being as centrally located
as possible, all the while striving to keep the cost affordable.
Your trip will stay in a range of European hotels of three and four-star quality.
Please be aware that European hotel rooms, especially those in major urban centres or older cities, may be smaller than what you are used
to in other parts of the world. Standards and ratings may also be different to your home country.
Rooms are en-suite and either twin- or triple-share, depending on what you have booked. If you are a solo traveller, you will always be
sharing a room with someone of the same sex.
If you are travelling as a couple and would prefer to have a double bed, please officially request a double room with your travel agent or
Topdeck trip consultant. We never presume that two people travelling together are a couple, even if you share the same surname, unless
informed otherwise.
Optional Activities
On all trips we have arranged extra activities that we think will enhance your travel experience, but you have a choice as to whether or not
you will participate. These are not included in the cost of your trip. They are usually organised on a group participation basis and should be
taken into consideration when budgeting your spending money.
None of the Optional Activities on your trip are operated by Topdeck, nor do they form part of your contract with Topdeck for your trip.
Topdeck arranges the activity as an agent of the local supplier. Should you participate in any Optional Activities your contract will be with the
local supplier and their conditions will apply.
Please note: while we make every effort to keep these prices as accurate and up-to-date as possible, they are subject to change and in rare
circumstances the actual price may vary slightly to what is published here.
France - Paris
Paris cabaret €56.50
Seine River cruise €8
Paris bike tour €26
Paris food tour €89
Versailles €25
France - Bordeaux
Château de Chambord visit €9
Cognac tour and tasting €6
France - Annecy
Boat cruise on Lake Annecy €13
Meals
Your included meals are detailed in the 'More Inclusions' section of this document.
Breakfasts are included every day in the hotel (except on the first morning). They are usually 'continental breakfasts', which are typical in
most European countries. A typical breakfast may consist of cereals with milk or yoghurt, bread, croissants, cold meats, cheese and a range
of spreads, with fruit juice, tea or coffee to drink. It is rare to get a hot breakfast in continental Europe, though on some occasions there may
be some hot food available as well.
Included evening meals are in local restaurants or accommodation places, and are either two or three courses. In most cases table water is
provided with the meals, and if you wish to purchase additional drinks you can do so at your own expense.
If you have any dietary requirements we will make every effort to cater to your specific needs as long as you advise your travel agent or
Topdeck Trip Consultant when you book, or make note of this in the Topdeck App when you check in (refer below). But please be aware that
although we will do everything in our power to arrange it, we cannot guarantee that every restaurant we use will be able to cater to all
dietary needs, particularly in Eastern Europe. We also cannot cater for tastes or dislikes, as most of our included evening meals feature a set
menu.
No Tip Necessary
Your Topdeck crew never expect tips themselves and will not ask for any; that’s not what friends do! We also know how much tipping can
cost you. So go ahead, spoil yourself with the money you will save by travelling with Topdeck (just don’t forget Mum’s souvenir).
Topdeck Travel App
Our travel app has landed! With a range of awesome features including a Currency Converter, Budget Tracker, Check-In tool and Social
Timeline you can plan your trip like a pro. Think of it like your very own Topdeck Trip Leader, always on call with the latest info, weather,
maps and city guides to give you the trip of a lifetime, all in the palm of your hand.
Please note: The Topdeck Travel App should only be downloaded once you have booked onto your trip. You will not be able to log in unless
you have a Topdeck Booking Reference Number.
Get it for iPhone
Get it for Android
Other Information
Finances
Changing Money
ATMs/cashpoints are available all over Europe and are the safest and easiest way to access money. Major credit cards are also accepted and
we recommend you bring yours along in case you see something special that you hadn't budgeted for.
Some nationals may have access to pre-paid cards that you can use at any ATM just like a debit card that you may want to consider as a
viable alternative or addition to your bank card.
We recommend that you change approximately €100 in cash before departure and approximately 30 Swiss francs (if your trip goes through
Switzerland). This will cover you for spending money until you have the chance to change more or find an ATM on the ground.
Please note credit cards cannot be used to pay for Optional Activities.
Spending Money
Based on experience, we recommend at least €50 – €60 per day. This is to cover daily expenses including sightseeing, small souvenir
shopping and non-included meals.
Remember, this is a rough figure only and spending habits vary greatly between individuals according to their budget and habits!
Tipping
Although you may not be accustomed to tipping at home, in many European countries it is customary. In some countries a service charge
may be added to your bill, in other countries it is usual to round the bill up to the nearest Euro or to leave an additional amount of between
5% and 10%. Your Trip Leader will be able to advise you further on the tipping customs in the countries you visit.
Topdeck Top Tip: it is a really good idea to hide away somewhere a small amount of cash and/or extra card; this will really come in handy in
the unlikely event that you lose your wallet or any other kind of emergency.
European Currencies
While the predominant currency throughout Europe is the euro (€), there are still many European countries that sit outside the Eurozone for
which you will need to use local currency (or rely on your credit/debit cards). It is generally always possible to exchange money into local
currency after arriving in the country, but the easiest way is to make a withdrawal from a local ATM/cashpoint.
Below is a list of all the other currencies you will use on your trip:
No need to worry, your trip only travels within the Eurozone (€).
Insurance
It is compulsory for all passengers to take out comprehensive travel insurance before the trip departs covering cancellation, medical
expenses including repatriation, loss or damage to baggage and personal belongings, money and personal liability.
For more information go to www.topdeck.travel/travel-insurance.
You must bring a copy of your travel insurance policy with you on the trip. Details of your policy must be uploaded into the Topdeck app
before your trips departs, otherwise they will be requested by your Trip Leader on Day One .
Passports and Visas
Please make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after the last day of your trip. Some countries will refuse entry if there is not at
least six months validity remaining on your passport after your departure date from their country. Depending on your nationality, you may
require a visa to enter certain countries.
It is your responsibility to obtain these prior to the departure of this trip. You can consult the government websites of the countries in which
you will be travelling or your own government’s website to determine which visas you will require. We also have a visa chart on our website
listing the visas required by some nationalities travelling on our trips. To check go to www.topdeck.travel/visas.
Remember that some visas can take up to six weeks to acquire, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Also bear in mind that the validity of
the visa often runs from the date of issue rather than date of entry into the country. Please check with the appropriate embassies prior to
departure as requirements do change periodically.
Transport
Coach Time
We try to spend as little time on the coach as possible so that you have more time to enjoy the places you visit. But do please remember that
Europe is a large continent and it takes time to get around!
On driving days between cities you will be on the coach during the day, stopping off to visit places of interest where possible. Strict driving
rules apply in Europe that limit the maximum number of hours your Driver can drive each day. They also limit the maximum number of days
that can be driven before a day off must be taken. We have worked hard to make sure this does not affect your trip, but in some cities it
means we will use public transport while your Driver has a well-earned rest day. The cost for this is included in your trip price and your Trip
Leader will show you how to get around town as the locals do!
Please note: this doesn't cover your own local transport while in a city, only when the coach is not in operation.
Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi is available for all passengers in Europe, this includes both coach and sailing trips. For more information about our Wi-Fi allowance
and availability per country, please head to our website www.topdeck.travel/wi-fi.
Please note: Wi-Fi charges are subject to change. If you feel necessary, please enquire with us to ensure your particular coach has Wi-Fi
availability.
Health and Safety
We want to make sure you’re having the time of your life while travelling with us. Therefore, if you suffer from any kind of medical condition
or allergies, we will need to know at the time of booking, or at least six weeks prior to the departure of your trip.
If you require regular medication, you must have a sufficient supply before your trip departs, as it may be difficult to obtain while travelling.
You must be able to administer your own medication, as Topdeck Road Crew will not be able to administer it, and there are no guarantees
that there will be anyone with first aid training on board.
Vaccinations
There are currently no compulsory vaccinations required for any of the countries this trip visits. Please reconfirm this with your GP or health
professional before you leave as conditions can change.
General Information
Public toilets
In most European countries you can expect to pay a small amount to use public toilets at service stations and in city centres. It is a common
practice in Europe and should be regarded as a form of ‘tipping’, as the money goes to the people who clean and/or maintain the facilities. It
is very rare that public toilets do not supply toilet paper, but it may be useful to carry a pack of tissues with you.
Power
All European countries (with the sole exception of the United Kingdom) use a CEE7/16 standard round, two-prong plug and a single adaptor
will work in all countries.
Voltage
Throughout Europe the voltage is a uniform 220v. If the voltage is the same or similar in your home country your appliance will comply. If
you have a 110v appliance you will need to use a transformer to avoid damaging your appliance.
In Cases of Emergency
While we hope you never have to use it, if for any reason you need to contact someone from Topdeck, whether it be that you have missed a
trip departure meeting, have become separated from your trip on the road or any other unforeseeable problem, the following options are
available to you.
Emergency Contact
Our Customer Service team is on hand 24/7 to help*
Please call 1300886332 from within Australia, 0800525366 from within New Zealand, 18006071399 from within North America, 0800982308
from within South Africa, 0362731786 from within Japan, 08452575212 from inside the UK or +44289873305 for the rest of the world. A
Topdeck representative will be on hand to help.
* Please note our Customer Service team may be closed over bank holidays. Please check out www.topdeck.travel/abouttopdeck/contact-us over these times.
What to Bring
We recommend soft bags, suitcases or frameless backpacks, plus a small day pack or carry bag. No external framed bags please, as they
damage other bags on the coach. Please limit your luggage to a maximum of 20kg. Luggage must not exceed dimensions of 70cm in height,
45cm in width and 25cm in depth. Only one piece of luggage is allowed.
Please note that due to space and weight restrictions on our coaches, passengers with too much luggage on departure morning may be told
that they cannot take their entire luggage with them. Luggage storage facilities are usually available at the departure point, if they are not
available you will have to make your own arrangements to have it stored or shipped home. Any luggage left behind will be at your own risk
and you will be required to pay any costs incurred.
Sleeping Bags
A sleeping bag will not be required for your trip.
Suggested Packing List
The golden rule is to travel as light as you can. Only bring what you really need and leave plenty of space for things you might want to buy.
Don't forget you will have to carry your bag around yourself before and after the trip, as well as in and out of where you’re staying while on
your trip!
The following is a suggested clothing list only, based on our experience:
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes
1 pair of smart casual shoes
1 pair thongs/jandals/flip-flops
2 pairs jeans/trousers
2 pairs shorts/skirts
4 shirts/t-shirts
2 sweaters/jumpers
Smart casual evening wear
1 rainproof jacket
1 warm jacket
Underwear and socks!
Other things to pack:
Swimwear
Towel
Toiletries
Hat and Sunscreen
Basic medical kit (including plasters, aspirin etc.)
Washing powder
Insect repellent
Conversion plug
Optionals to consider:
Sewing kit
Pillow case
Torch
Travel pillow
Please note: entry into some religious sites, such as cathedrals and mosques, requires clothing to cover the knees, chest and shoulders.
Final Checklist
Passport (with visas if required!)
Airline tickets (where applicable)
Insurance Policy (you must bring these details with you)
Camera; batteries; chargers; conversion plug
That’s it – you’re now ready for your trip of a lifetime! If you have any further questions feel free to give our team a shout at any time. Happy
travels!