Paris, Provence and Barcelona

The itinerary is the starting point to your tour, but it’s not set in stone. Your group leader may make changes leading up to departure.

Day 1, Friday April 17: Overnight Flight

Depart from the USA.

Day 2, Saturday April 18: Barcelona

¡Bienvenidos a España! Meet your ACIS Tour Manager as you arrive in Barcelona, capital of Catalonia and Spain’s second largest city. Founded by the Romans in the 3rd century BC, it’s known for its artistic treasures and fine architecture, from Gothic to modernist. Take time to wander the old town and acquaint yourself with this vibrant culture, including a stroll through the narrow cobbled streets, peaceful squares and towering old buildings that characterize Barri Gòtic (the city’s Gothic Quarter) which was at times home to both Picasso and Joan Miró. (D)

Day 3, Sunday April 19: Barcelona

Begin your day with a Trencadís workshop where you will create your own mosaic in his style. After time for lunch on your own enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour. Your local guide will point out the major highlights of Barcelona, from the Gothic Quarter to the unique Gaudí designs along the Passeig de Gràcia. Antoni Gaudí, one of Catalonia's most famous sons, was a Modernist architect whose distinctive style is revered to this day. Entrance to Gaudí's Sagrada Familia allows you study the incredible light and intricate architecture of this masterpiece inside and out. You'll also take a stroll through his whimsical Parc Güell and enjoy a sweeping view over the city all the way to the sea. Take a walk down La Rambla this evening and experience the brightly lit, bustling atmosphere of Plaça de Catalunya. (B,D)

Day 4, Monday April 20: Provence

Cross the Pyrénées to France. Your first stop is the medieval city of Carcassonne, whose ramparts and towers are so well-preserved that they have been featured in movies. Continue through vineyards to Provence. (B,D)

Day 5, Tuesday April 21: Provence

Today highlights the Roman Empire's influence on southern France as you first travel along the old Roman route of Via Domitia to Nîmes for a tour of the Roman Arena with audio guides providing context what is in front of you. Then dive even more deeply into the region's Gallo-Roman period with a visit to the Musée de la Romanité. Later continue to the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct preserved in almost perfect condition. A true marvel of Roman engineering, the 161-foot tall bridge aqueduct is still standing nearly 2,000 years after its construction. Our tour offers an exclusive guided visit to the third floor for a closer look at the structure's architecture and exceptional views. (B,D)

Day 6, Wednesday April 22: Paris

Travel on one of the fastest trains in Europe, the high-speed TGV, to Paris. The journey takes just over 2.5 hours and brings you to the City of Light in time for a guided afternoon sightseeing tour. An expert local guide gives you a taste of French history, from the monumental Arc de Triomphe to Napoleon's final resting place at Les Invalides to the gargoyles of Notre Dame. (B,D)

Day 7, Thursday April 23: Paris

This morning 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, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo and more as you wander through the galleries. 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. Later a Taste of France cooking workshop gives you an authentic experience with professional local chefs who will introduce you to some of the classic Parisian ingredients and dishes. Assist in the demonstration by trying a few of the techniques that French cooking is famous for, and savor the wonderful smells and flavors that result with plenty of tastings. Tonight, ascend to the third floor of the Eiffel Tower for views over this magnificent city. (B,D)

Day 8, Friday April 24: Paris

Today, travel to Versailles to visit the intricate gardens and stunning palace of the Sun King, Louis the XIV. Your visit includes the Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, and the breathtaking surroundings. Don't worry if you don't have time to cover every room of his vast palace. The best stuff is all in the gardens and grounds: all 1,976-acre gardens, 200,000 trees, 50 fountains and 620 jets of water worth. Return to Paris and enjoy time to explore more at your own pace. Perhaps visit a lesser-known attraction such as the catacombs or the Musee Marmottan-Monet, home to the famous artist's Impression, Sunrise, from which the Impressionist artistic movement purportedly drew its name. (B,D)

Day 9, Saturday April 25: Departure

Depart for the USA. (B)