NYS Shadow Tour to France

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, Saturday June 20: Overnight Flight

Departure from the United States.

Day 2, Sunday June 21: Normandy Area

Arrive in Paris, meet your Encore Tour Manager and drive to the Normandy Area. Depending on your arrival time, you may stop in the historic city in northern France, is known for its medieval architecture, including the stunning Rouen Cathedral and half-timbered houses, and most famous for its connection to Joan of Arc, who was tried and executed here in 1431. Continue to check into your hotel in the Normandy Area, and enjoy a welcome dinner together tonight. (D)

Day 3, Monday June 22: Normandy Area

Today walk in the footsteps of history as you visit many of Normandy’s important World War II sites. See what is remaining of the temporary Mulberry harbor constructed at Arromanches to help offload cargo during the invasion. Entrance to the Arromanches 360 Cinema is included. Next pay tribute at the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer before descending from the bluff to walk along Omaha Beach. After a day of exploration, venture back to hear your child have their first performance at the Auditorium Jean Pierre Dautel, Conservatoire De Caen, pending approval. (B,D)

Day 4, Tuesday June 23: Loire Valley

Depart Normandy this morning and journey into the picturesque Loire Valley. Your first stop is to the stunning island monastery of Mont St. Michel. This medieval marvel, once a revered pilgrimage destination, stands dramatically surrounded by water during high tide. After a day of awe-inspiring sights, continue to the Loire Valley where you will check into your next hotel and have dinner together. (B,D)

Day 5, Wednesday June 24: Loire Valley

Today you'll visit the stunning Château de Chenonceau, also known as the château of six women, an elegant Renaissance masterpiece built over the River Cher. With its moat, drawbridge, and storied history of resistance during the Nazi occupation, it’s a place rich with both beauty and tales. This will be followed by a lovely wine tasting luncheon. Later attend NYS second performance at the Le Halle aux Grains this evening. The stage is set for another memorable concert. Have a reception with the Loire community. (B,L)

Day 6, Thursday June 25: Paris

Your day begins with an early departure as you make your way back to Paris! On the way, stop in the grand city of Versailles to explore its iconic Hall of Mirrors, where the Treaty of Versailles was signed, and take in the stunning gardens and surroundings.  (B,D)

Day 7, Friday June 26: Paris

This morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour, passing some of the city’s most famous landmarks. Your expert local guide will lead you to the magnificent Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, the solemn beauty of Napoleon's final resting place at Les Invalides, and the awe-inspiring Gothic architecture of Notre Dame. Then skip the lines with your timed entrance to the Louvre, where you'll immerse yourself in a world of art and history. Your expert local guide will bring the masterpieces to life as you explore the galleries, highlighting iconic works like the Mona Lisa, Winged Victory, Venus de Milo, and more. From its origins as a royal fortress to its status as the world’s most visited art museum, the Louvre is a symbol of Parisian culture, housing 35,000 incredible works from around the globe. Then attend the final perforance of NYS taking place in the historic town of Saint-Denis at the Festival de Saint-Denis, in the magnificent Basilique-Cathédrale de Saint-Denis, just outside of Paris. (B,D)

Day 8, Saturday June 27: Paris

Today, enjoy a River Cruise on the Seine starting at the feet of the Eiffel Tower. The rest of the day is yours to dive deep into the essence of Paris, the “City of Light,” once at the forefront of education during the Age of Enlightenment. As you wander through this iconic city, reflect on its history—where streets were among the first to embrace the glow of streetlights, paving the way for its renowned brilliance. Take time to stroll along the Seine, where you'll find painters, poets, and vintage book vendors, each contributing to the riverbank’s vibrant artistic soul. Engage with locals, practice your French, and soak in the ambiance of this timeless location. For a touch of luxury, visit the legendary Galeries Lafayette for a taste of Parisian high fashion, or lose yourself in the charming streets of Montmartre, an artist’s haven where every café and corner tells a story. As evening falls, immerse yourself in the refined elegance of Paris—attend a captivating concert at the majestic Opéra Garnier. The day ends on a perfect note with a special farewell dinner, where you’ll savor exquisite French cuisine and celebrate the memories made together. (B,D)

Day 9, Sunday June 28: Departure

Transfer to the airport for return flight to the United States. (B)