Fall in Love with Paris for the First Time

Fly into Charles de Gaulle or Orly and catch a taxi into the city center. They're clean, safe, and plentiful at each airport. 

You'll immediately be immersed in charm once you check into the delightful 4-star Le Grand Hôtel Cayré. Nestled in the Saint-Germain neighborhood, this historic gem has been recently restored with all the luxe touches you would expect from a chic Parisian stay. 

Later, we will gather at our hotel for a welcome drink and introductions, setting a relaxed tone for the evening ahead. Our gathering will take place at Officine Bac, the hotel’s hidden bar created in what was once an old apothecary.

Afterward, we'll set off on a unique sightseeing adventure through Paris in a vintage Citroën 2CV, an iconic symbol of French culture. Feel the city’s pulse as we wind through its streets, passing by landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Élysées.

We will end our day with dinner at Annette, our hotel’s elegant brasserie. Under the direction of chef Bruno Brangea, formerly of Alain Ducasse, Annette reimagines classic French dishes with fresh, local ingredients. Named after writer Annette Kolb, who lived in the hotel for many years, the restaurant is beloved by both guests and Parisians. 

Reflecting on the day’s experiences, you’ll find yourself immersed in the timeless allure of Paris. Here, history meets contemporary elegance at every turn.

After a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, our day begins with a cultural immersion at the Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station. This museum features an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, including works by Henri Matisse, Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Vincent Van Gogh, and Auguste Rodin. Led by an expert guide, we'll learn about their revolutionary impact on modern art.

Following our museum exploration, we'll enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Bonne Excuse, a darling small bistro café just around the corner from Orsay. Over delicious French cuisine, we'll discuss our favorite pieces. 

With an expert local guide leading the way, half of our small group (tours are limited to just five guests) will step into the restored beauty of Notre Dame de Paris for an intimate, story-rich visit. Meanwhile, the others will wander the beloved Shakespeare & Company bookshop with our trip leader, soaking up its cozy corners and literary charm. Then we’ll switch, ensuring everyone enjoys both unforgettable experiences.

Dinner tonight will be at Restaurant La Petite Chaise considered the oldest restaurant in Paris dating to 1680 – serving the classic French standards such as foie gras, celeri remoulade, Salade Frisée avec lardons, confit de canard and incredible mashed potatoes done the French way!

 After dinner we can walk to find a good view of the Eiffel tower to watch her sparkle as the clock strikes 10pm. 

This morning, we will leave early and drive an hour to Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny. Monet considered his garden, which he personally planted and tended, to be his greatest masterpiece. His home, now a museum, is filled with artworks and artifacts he collected over a lifetime, showcasing his passion for beauty. Inside, you’ll find his studio-sitting room and an exceptional collection of Japanese prints.

After exploring the house and gardens, we’ll stroll to the charming La Guinguette for lunch. This rustic, organic eatery is a fantastic place to chat about all of the wonderful art we've just seen.

Returning to Paris, we’ll visit the jewel-like L’Orangerie museum on the edge of the Tuileries Gardens. Specially designed rooms house Monet’s famous “Water Lilies,” offering a mesmerizing experience. Decide for yourself which is more breathtaking: the gardens or the paintings.

After a big day, dinner is on your own - order room service or visit a nearby café.

Our morning begins with a walking and food tour on Rue Cler with our friend Véronique, where we can taste some of the city’s finest cheeses, charcuterie, and seasonal produce. This charming market street was one of Julia Child’s favorites, and we'll follow in her footsteps to explore its stalls and specialty shops.

After lunch, we'll continue to the Luxembourg Gardens for a guided stroll, learning about the garden’s history and highlighting its sculptures, fountains, and horticultural treasures.

The afternoon will be yours to wander, shop, or visit any Paris sights you may have missed. Paris always invites a little unscripted exploration, and this is your time to enjoy it.

For dinner, we will head to Sidi des Prés, a Moroccan restaurant reminiscent of a luxe desert tent serving fantastic tagines.

It's time to experience the world's largest museum. We'll take a pleasant walk to the Louvre for a private guided visit, entering together and skipping the long queues. Your guide will lead you through a curated selection of masterpieces so you can enjoy the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.

If the schedule allows, we will continue by metro to the lively Marché Bastille, one of Paris’s most famous outdoor food markets. Its colorful stalls overflow with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and other culinary treasures. Daily market visits are a cherished ritual for many Parisians, and it is easy to see why as you wander through the energy and aromas of this beloved neighborhood tradition.

After choosing a few favorites from the market, we'll savor a relaxed lunch at Creperie Suzette, a cozy spot known for crepes served with warmth and simplicity.

Later, we're off to Le Marais, one of Paris’s most vibrant districts and home to some of the city’s best boutique shopping. Our guide will show us around her neighborhood so we can get our bearings before we enjoy some time to wander. 

You might stroll along Rue des Rosiers, admire the serene beauty of the Place des Vosges, browse fragrances at Buly, enjoy a coffee at Place Sainte Catherine, or visit the Picasso or Carnavalet Museum. The recently renovated Carnavalet, the city’s oldest museum, offers a fascinating journey through Parisian history.

After time to rest at the hotel, we'll come together for dinner at Marzo Saint-Germain, a stylish Italian restaurant near our hotel. It's the perfect place to share a wood-fired pizza and a warm, candlelit atmosphere before settling in for the night.

After breakfast, we'll begin our day by visiting the very heart of Montmartre. This charming village in northern Paris is renowned for its painters, cafes, and bohemian ambiance. We will visit the Musée de Montmartre, located in one of the oldest buildings on the Butte from the 17th century, and explore its rich artistic history.

Then, we'll meet with our photographer for a personalized photo shoot around Montmartre. What better way to commemorate this lovely trip to Paris?

Lunch is at Gavroche, but the rest of the evening allows you the chance to explore a café or boutique that catches your eye. You may decide to enjoy some last-minute shopping or visit a few sights you have been hoping to see.

If you prefer a shared experience, you can join the group for a perfume workshop that blends creativity and indulgence at the Musée du Parfum Fragonard. The experience includes a hands-on perfume-making session, a visit to a small fragrance museum, and a cocktail class inspired by the scents you create.

Tonight, we'll enjoy a farewell sunset dinner cruise on the Ducasse sur Seine, a spectacular riverboat restaurant along the Seine. The highlight will be witnessing the City of Light illuminate before our eyes, offering a magical conclusion to our Parisian adventure.

Sadly, it's time to say goodbye and head home, but first, we'll enjoy a hearty breakfast together. May this be the first of many trips to Paris and la Belle France.

When the time comes, call a taxi to the airport for your onward travels. 

“America is my country, but Paris is my home,” Gertrude Stein.

If you're joining us for the post-trip extension to Versailles, we'll say goodbye to the rest of the group and board the train for a short ride to begin our elegant escapade.

Welcome to Versailles, where gilded palaces, manicured gardens, and centuries of royal history await. 

Upon arrival at the train station, we’ll transfer to the luxe Hôtel Les Lumières, ideally located near the palace grounds. After settling in, we’ll toast with a champagne welcome and savor a light lunch before beginning our royal immersion. 

This afternoon, we’re off to enjoy a privately guided visit of the magnificent Palace of Versailles, including exclusive access to the King’s and Queen’s Apartments before the palace opens fully to the public. As we wander through glittering halls, grand salons, and intimate royal chambers, our guide will regale us with fascinating stories of Marie Antoinette, court life, fashion, and scandal. 

We’ll then stroll through the breathtaking Gardens of Versailles, where fountains, sculptures, hidden groves, and perfectly manicured pathways create one of the world's most spectacular gardens. 

The evening culminates in a beautiful welcome dinner at Gordon Ramsey’s Michelin-starred restaurant, au Trianon. Indulge in a meticulously created meal paired with wine in an elegant setting. 

Today is dedicated entirely to living out all of our Versailles fantasies. 

We’ll begin with a private costume and styling experience, where professional dressers and hair stylists help to transform each of us into an aristocrat of the French court. Choose from lavish gowns inspired by Marie Antoinette and the grandeur of the 18th century. 

Once dressed, we’ll enjoy an elegant royal-inspired afternoon tea complete with pastries, champagne, and professional portraits in costume. A private photographer will capture beautiful editorial-style photos throughout the experience in both palace-inspired interiors and garden settings. 

The remainder of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Relax at the hotel, visit the hotel's spa, wander the charming streets of Versailles, or pop into a café and a few nearby boutiques. 

This evening, we’ll sit down for dinner together at one of Versailles’ elegant restaurants.

After a leisurely morning, we’ll continue our exploration of the royal estate with a guided visit to the enchanting Petit Trianon and Marie Antoinette’s private hamlet. 

Far removed from the palace's formal court life, this intimate retreat offers an immersive glimpse into the queen’s personal world, complete with charming cottages, gardens, and elegant salons. 

Later, we’ll indulge in a beautiful perfume creation workshop inspired by French fragrance traditions. Guided by an expert perfumer, we’ll create our own custom scents to take home as a special keepsake from Versailles. 

This afternoon is devoted entirely to wellness and relaxation. Enjoy luxurious spa treatments and massages at our hotel or a nearby wellness spa inspired by French beauty rituals and self-care traditions. Take time to unwind and savor the slower pace of Versailles. 

This evening, we’ll gather for a final elegant dinner to toast our unforgettable royal escape together. 

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and a free morning to shop, café-hop, or take one final stroll through the charming streets of Versailles. 

Once the time comes, call a taxi to the airport for onward flights. Until we meet again!