To provide a headline for our trip, it was FABULOUS! The right amount of time to explore the city and its surroundings while immersing ourselves in local boulangeries and eateries.
While we started our 1st day weary from the overnight flight, it was the perfect beginning, not having been to Paris before, to set the context with the private tour of the city and Seine River Cruise. With the Olympics’ opening ceremonies taking place on the Seine River, it was interesting to see how they were beginning work to prepare while having a unique perspective to see many of Paris’ landmarks. Our guide was on time, very engaging, and knowledgeable, and set the tone for what we’d be able to see the next few days.
Our next morning began with a small-group half-day Louvre Guided Tour, which was the perfect amount of time, and the guide was again knowledgeable and engaging. Our only disappointment was that some areas were closed in preparation for the Olympics. We finished the day with a tour of the Eiffel Tower, which is best done in the evening as it lights up shortly after you finish, which is beautifully impressive.
Following a day on our own, we had a 12-hour trip for a small group tour of Loire Valley Castles. This was great to go and see and required the full day. Our only wish would have been to have been able to stop and have a glass of wine along the way to relax in the valley. We assumed our guide would take us into the castles but drove us there, walked us to the entrance, and then made sure we had a pamphlet to see on our own. I would recommend having the option to upgrade to have the guide join you, similar to our other excursions.
The pinnacle of the trip was our full-day tour to Versailles. It was AMAZING and likely a result of our guide, Frederic. From the moment he picked us up from the hotel, he customized the day to ensure we saw everything. He was incredibly knowledgeable and guided us through the most important details of what we were seeing. He took us to lunch in town, and having him join us was truly our pleasure. By far the best guide I’ve had from almost every trip. I highly recommend Frederic to anyone visiting Paris, as he does many different tours.
The hotel was also very nice. Perfectly situated in the center of the city with easy access to all sites, restaurants, and transportation, it was perfect for our visit.
I hope this is helpful. Until our next trip…