Le Mistral

This itinerary is the starting point for your tour, but it’s not set in stone. If there are days you would like to change, or specific places you’d like to go, we can work with you to create a personalized program that fits the needs of you and your students.

Day 1: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2: Paris

Paris greets you today! Take time to meet your ACIS Tour Manager, unpack and practice your French.

Day 3: Paris

Today a guided sightseeing tour with an expert local guide shows you the city's most impressive monuments, from the magnificent Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées to Napoleon's final resting place at Les Invalides to the Gothic wonder of Notre Dame.This afternoon, breeze by the crowds with your timed entrance to the Louvre and discover the many famous masterpieces that call it home. Insightful commentary from your local guide highlights the Mona Lisa, the Winged Victory and the Venus de Milo, believed to depict the Greek goddess Aphrodite. From its beginnings as a royal fortress to its current status as the world's most visited art museum, the Louvre has long been at the center of Parisian culture and home to a collection of 35,000 works of art from around the world. Then ride up to the third floor of the iconic Eiffel Tower for sensational views of this splendid city.

Day 4: Paris

Enjoy a full-day excursion to Louis XIV's palace at Versailles. Your all-access visit includes the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, Marie Antoinette's Hameau, a small rustic village that served as her retreat from the pressures and intrigue of palace life, and the Petit Trianon, a personal palace the king gave to her in 1774. After wandering about the exquisite and intensely manicured gardens on two feet, hop on two wheels and experience Versailles by bike, exploring the palace's surroundings beyond the gardens. Back in Paris this evening you may opt for a tasty cultural exchange—separate into small groups and be welcomed into the homes of local Parisians to enjoy an authentic dinner and lively conversation.

Day 5: Chamonix

The high-speed TGV train takes you from Paris toward the French Alps and the city of Geneva, Switzerland. See the massive statues and figures of the Reformation Wall and take in the impressive Jet d'Eau, a 450-foot tall fountain that’s visible from 30 miles away, as you enjoy a wonderful Mouette water-taxi cruise on Lake Geneva. Continue on to picturesque Chamonix for dinner.

Day 6: Chamonix

Today enjoy a true Alpine Adventure. In the morning travel up one of the highest peaks in the Alps, Aiguille du Midi, named because it points to the midday sun when viewed from the valley below. A series of cable cars brings you to 13,000 feet for spectacular scenery and breathtaking views. Then speed on down a 1,300 meter long track on the thrilling Luge Alpine coaster. This day is sure to be a favorite.

Day 7: Cote d'Azur

Departing Chamonix, leave the scenic French Alps for the chic Côte d'Azur. The drive provides stunning views of Europe's highest peaks. Experience the change in culture as you descend to the coast.

Day 8: Cote d'Azur

Begin your day with an orientation tour of Nice led by your ACIS Tour Manager. As you explore its history and culture, enjoy the city’s many fine attractions, from Place Massena to the winding streets of the Old Town to dazzling Mediterranean views.In the afternoon, drive to Monaco, the glamorous playground of the rich and famous and home of the Grimaldi royal family. After viewing the Prince's Palace, you’ll travel along a spectacular corniche to Eze, a fortified medieval-age village perched high atop a rocky peak. There you’ll enjoy sweeping vistas from the fragrant Jardin Exotique, a magnificent botanical garden, and tour the Fragonard Perfume Factory, where you’ll learn about the centuries-old French art of making parfum.

Day 9: Departure

Depart for the USA.