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Thinking about France in winter? Picture Paris without the crowds, Bordeaux’s vineyards resting under crisp skies, and Versailles glowing softly in the cool light. This is a quieter, more intimate version of France, filled with rich hot chocolate, leisurely meals, and streets that feel like they belong just to you.

This winter escape through Paris, Bordeaux, and Versailles is designed for travelers who want to experience France with fewer people and more atmosphere. Think of great food, cozy cafés, magical châteaux, and just the right amount of sparkle. And even if it doesn’t snow, it’s sure to leave you in a flurry of wonder.

• 4 Nights Paris
• 3 Nights Bordeaux
• 1 Night Versailles
• Panoramic Tour with a Hot Chocolate Stop in Paris
• Day Trip to the Loire Valley
• Day Trip to Champagne
• Optional Alsace visit in December for Christmas markets
• Bordeaux City Tour with a local, and immersive art experience
• Wine tour in Médoc
• Stay at Les Lumières, a 2 L Collection hotel
• Private transfer to the airport

Days 1-4: Paris | Hot Chocolate, Hidden Corners and Stunning Views

Paris does not just look lovely in winter. It feels like the city throws open its arms and welcomes you in. There is something magical about gazing up at the Eiffel Tower with barely another soul around or wandering the halls of the Louvre at your own pace, unhurried and relaxed. Even finding the perfect café window seat seems almost effortless, letting you watch the world go by with a mug of rich, velvety hot chocolate warming your hands.

Kick things off with a ride through Paris, soaking up all those iconic sights from the back seat of a car or a window of a bus. It feels like seeing the city with fresh eyes. Afterwards, treat yourself to a thick hot chocolate in a café where locals know the best spots to hide from the chill. Suddenly, you are part of the neighborhood, feeling right at home.

Winter in Paris is the best time to slip away to the Loire Valley. The grand châteaux look even more enchanting when the gardens are hushed, and you can linger in splendid rooms without elbowing past crowds. If you feel like something sparkling, head to Champagne for a day. The vineyards might be resting, but the cellar doors are open for warm, friendly tastings and stories shared over flutes of fizzy perfection.

If you are in France in December, consider wandering into Alsace. Say hello to storybook villages with half-timbered houses, the scent of spiced wine in the air, and twinkling fairy lights everywhere. The Christmas markets here feel pure and magical, with each stall offering a little discovery.

Days 5–7: Bordeaux – Wine, Art, and Leisurely Winter Nights

If Paris sets the scene, Bordeaux is the snug sequel. Here, the city moves with a gentle rhythm, its graceful streets blending historic charm with fresh, creative energy. Let someone in the know guide you around. They will point out the corners where locals linger and the little places that will make you linger too.

Lose yourself in immersive art that dances across the walls, bringing bursts of color to classic stone buildings. The contrast makes every moment feel playful, as if the city is showing off a secret side just for you.

No winter trip to Bordeaux is complete without a wander through the Médoc’s quiet vineyards. Rows of vines stretch under clear, cool skies, and tasting rooms offer a sense of calm that suits slow lunches, bold reds, and conversations that tumble into the afternoon.

Seafood lovers can savor fresh oysters from the nearby coast. If hearty dishes are more your style, you will find menus full of comforting classics that warm you from the inside out.

Day 8: Versailles – A Soft, Golden Farewell

Round off your adventure with an evening at Les Lumières in Versailles, where the hotel offers a cocoon of warmth and elegance. It is the perfect spot to take a breather and reflect before heading home.

Stroll through the palace gardens and you will see Versailles dressed for winter. Peaceful paths, still fountains, and gilded gates gleaming against gentle grey skies create a softer version of the royal scene. Everything slows down, inviting you to savor golden moments and quiet beauty that summer crowds often miss.

Day 9: Departure

The next morning, a private ride takes you to the airport. You leave with cameras full of memories, your head buzzing with stories, and a fresh perspective on how beautiful France can be in the colder months.

Why France Shines in Winter

• Holiday magic in December. Alsace turns into a festive fairyland with unforgettable Christmas markets.
• Say goodbye to crowds. Enjoy museums and sights with space to breathe and never feel rushed.
• See the real France, as locals live it. Leisurely meals, café chats, and small, everyday joys.
• Weather that invites hot drinks and hearty food, perfect for café hopping and wine tasting.
• Dreamy winter light. Paris and Bordeaux glow like paintings, and every photo feels special.

Winter Tips from the France Team

Pack a trusty coat, comfortable boots, and a reliable pair of gloves. The cold and occasional rain will not dampen the fun. Layer up and France feels inviting and full of cheerful surprises. If you are dreaming of a French escape and do not want to wait for summer, now is your chance to make it unforgettable.

The post A Winter Escape Through Paris, Bordeaux, and Versailles appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

When is a good time to visit France? The right answer is “anytime your heart desires.” And when does it not? When does it not wish to glide across the Seine, the evening glow of the Eiffel Tower lighting its way? Or raise a glass of champagne in its bubbly heartland. And has it ever not beaten faster at the thought of a picnic lunch along the shimmering coasts of Nice? No, it hasn’t. So be it summer or winter, listen to your heart and follow it on this romantic journey from Paris to the French Riviera!

• 5 Nights in Paris
• 3 Nights in Nice

Day 1 | Paris – Love at First Sight

Bienvenue à Paris, the proverbial City of Love! Feel a heartwarming welcome at Paris Charles de Gaulle with a VIP meet-and-greet before a private transfer whisks you off to your hotel in the heart of the city; whether it’s a hidden gem in Le Marais overlooking Place des Vosges, or a bohemian retreat in Montmartre near the romantic “Je T’Aime” wall. After settling in, wrap up your day on a private cruise along the Seine, the city’s lights dancing on the water as you toast to your arrival with Champagne; the perfect moment to say Paris Je T’aime!

Day 2 | Paris – Art, Passion & Midnight Sparkle

Begin sculpting your time in Paris surrounded by marble and meaning at the Rodin Museum, where Le Baiser (“The Kiss”) immortalizes love in stone. Savor the afternoon as a Parisian with some immersive time at leisure. Come evening, dine in style at one of the city’s most romantic tables; be it the famed Jules Verne atop the Eiffel Tower, or an intimate candlelit restaurant tucked inside one of Paris’s oldest maisons. All before slipping into a vintage 2CV for a whimsical tour of Paris by night, Champagne in hand as the City of Light twinkles just for you.

Day 3 | Paris – Hidden Passages & Timeless Portraits

Uncover a lesser-known side of Paris within its covered passages, where elegant glass-roofed arcades lined with antique bookshops, ateliers, and Belle Époque cafés whisper stories of a golden age. Pause for lunch at Le Grand Colbert, a quintessential Parisian brasserie steeped in charm and cinematic fame. Later in the day, step into the frame at Studio Harcourt, the legendary portrait studio that has photographed icons from Edith Piaf to Cate Blanchett. Here, you can become the star of your own classic black-and-white portrait, a timeless keepsake of your Parisian love story.

Day 4 | Champagne Dreams & Golden Bubbles

Prepare to feel all bubbly with a journey through the heart of Champagne, where rolling vineyards and quiet cellars tell centuries of sparkling stories. Visit a family-run estate away from the crowds for an intimate tasting of their finest cuvées before indulging in The Table Experience, a curated gastronomic pairing that brings harmony to every sip and bite. Complete your effervescent escape with Craÿothérapie®, a luxurious spa ritual inspired by Champagne’s chalky terroir, leaving you glowing from head to heart. Return to Paris refreshed, radiant, and just a little bit more in love with France.

Day 5 | Southbound to the Sun — Arrival on the Riviera

Bid adieu to Paris as you journey from Paris to the French Riviera, following in the footsteps of Europe’s first jetsetters who flocked there in winter for its soft light and gentle sea air. Upon arrival in Nice, feel like a movie star as you check into one of Côte d’Azur’s timeless properties; perhaps the legendary Le Negresco, where Belle Époque elegance meets seaside splendor, or the glamorous Hôtel Hermitage Monte-Carlo, overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean. After that, all that’s left is to bask in the golden light, savor a seaside stroll and breathe in the Riviera’s air of eternal spring.

Day 6 | Fragrant Moments in Grasse

Let the scent of adventure guide you into the hills above the Riviera, where Grasse, the world’s perfume capital, awaits. There, step into the aromatic world of a private perfume atelier and have experts guide your senses in crafting your own signature fragrance; a deeply personal blend that will linger long after your journey ends. If traveling between January and February, you may also be in for a special treat of catching the magic of blooming mimosas, as they paint the landscape in gold and turn every view into pure poetry.

Day 7 | Riviera Reverie — Glamour by Land and Sea

It’s only right to let your last full day in the French Riviera unfold like a true Hollywood classic. Take off on a dazzling drive along the legendary Grand Prix circuit, tracing the tire marks of legendary Formula 1 drivers. Glide down the scenic Basse Corniche, where the Mediterranean sparkles like liquid sapphire beside you. In Beaulieu-sur-Mer, board your private boat for an indulgent coastal cruise, savoring a gourmet picnic as you drift past Cap Ferrat and Villefranche-sur-Mer. If feeling lucky, spend the final eve of your Riviera reverie at the famed Casino de Monte-Carlo, where history, glamour, and chance all share the same champagne glow.

Day 8 | Departure and Pure Romance Season after Season

With France’s heartbeat having matched your own, it’s time to carry its rhythm home. As your private transfer whisks you off to Nice Airport, you’ll realize that France has no off-season, only endless ways to fall in love. From winter lights along the Seine to sun-kissed picnics on the Riviera, every moment has revealed a different hue of its romance. And as you leave, you will do so with a quiet promise that whenever your heart calls, France will be ready to answer.

Bonus Highlights — February Only: Winter Riviera Magic

If you happen to travel in February, consider yourself lucky, as the month of love sees the Riviera come alive with unique colors, lights, and celebrations.

• Carnaval de Nice

One of Europe’s most iconic winter festivals, the Carnaval de Nice transforms the city into a dazzling stage of illuminated floats, vibrant parades, and whimsical batailles de fleurs (flower battles). Whether from the grandstands or among the revelers, it’s a joyful spectacle where artistry, tradition, and romance intertwine.

• Fête du Citron, Menton

Just a short drive from Monaco, Menton’s Fête du Citron celebrates citrus in the most extraordinary fashion, with giant lemon-and-orange sculptures, glowing night parades, and fragrant gardens turned into golden dreamscapes. A cheerful, sunlit twist to winter on the Riviera.

The post Heart to Heart: From Paris to the French Riviera appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Grab a glass of eggnog and join France, Slovenia, and Croatia for a holiday soiree that transcends borders. See Paris dress up and get more radiant than ever. Witness Ljubljana weave its storybook charms into a real-life fairytale. All before having Zagreb trigger a debate on who has the best Christmas market in Europe (knowing it will probably win). Whether raising a glass of Champagne in Reims, cooking up treats in Bled, or gift shopping in Zagreb, this is one holiday get together you don’t want to miss!

• 4 Nights in Paris
• 3 Nights in Ljubljana
• 2 Nights in Zagreb

Ideal Travel Time: Late November to December 25^th

Perfect for: Families, couples, lovers of Christmas markets, and pretty much anyone who isn’t a grinch.

Day 1 – Arrival in the City of Light & Festive Drive

Let the holiday magic begin by having Paris demonstrate why its one of France’s top holiday season destinations. Once checked into your hotel of choice, set off on a champagne-sparkling drive through the merry streets of the capital. With a classic Citroen 2CV as your sled, glide down the Champs-Élysées, where twinkling lights guide you toward the Arc de Triomphe. See the Eiffel Tower shimmer and transform into a giant festive ornament, before crossing the elegant Pont Alexandre III on your way to toast the newfound glow of Notre Dame and Montmartre.

Suggested Accommodations

Bring in the holidays in true French style at one of the following properties:

Day 2 – Window Shopping & Winter Warmth

Paris knows how to dress for the season, and its iconic “Vitrines de Noël” (holiday window displays) are testament to that. Watch the world’s fashion icon drape itself in more luminous chic than ever as you stroll past the magical displays of Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, where every sparkling layout tells a story of glistening wonder. Then, follow your guide through your favorite Parisian neighborhoods, pausing for a velvety hot chocolate in an iconic café or a mulled wine at a bustling market stall. If you thought Paris glamorous before, wait until you see it gear up for the holidays!

 Day 3 – A Festive Toast in Champagne

How much more festive can it get? Answer that by raising a glass in the birthplace of bubbles! Set a celebratory tone by heading to a prestigious Champagne house in Épernay, where cheers and clinks promise to ring on until New Year’s. Then, journey through the scenic Montagne de Reims and trace Dom Pérignon’s heritage at the charming village of Hautvillers. After a cozy lunch at a local restaurant, continue to Reims, where Gothic cathedral spires meet twinkling holiday markets in a spellbinding setting of pure fantasy.  There, conclude the day with another sparkling tasting, leaving you wrapped in the warmth of Champagne’s festive elegance. 

Day 4 – Masterpieces, Mysteries & Magic on the Seine

True magic carries an air of mystery. So today, jump on the detective trail of renowned art works and sculptures at the world famous Orsay Museum. After uncovering clues hidden among Van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir masterpieces, spend the afternoon at leisure, knowing that you’ve cracked the case of a century. Come evening let a cruise along the Seine carry you past glittering Parisian landmarks as you savor a full-course dinner paired with champagne among the city’s festive splendor.

Hint: Make sure to investigate Charles Garnier’s grand model of the Paris Opera House!

Day 5 – A Fairytale Arrival in Ljubljana

It’s not every day that you step into a fairytale, but in Ljubljana, it’s just another Tuesday; especially during the holiday season! As you bid au revoir to Paris and land in Slovenia’s storied capital, ready yourself for a stay filled with castles and dragons in a city of baroque facades and storybook charms. Upon checking into your place of lodging, meander across the famed Triple Bridge, waltz past festive stalls along the Ljubljanica River, and soak up the cozy cheer that turns the city center into a real-life fantasy.

Suggested Accommodations

Opt for one of the following properties for a fairytale stay in the heart of Ljubljana:

Day 6 – Market Magic in Ljubljana

Speaking of fantasies. Now that you’ve had a taste of its storied charms, feast upon them with a quest into the heart of Ljubljana’s dreamland. Begin in Prešeren Square, where garlands sparkle and the city’s great Christmas tree rises like a beacon of joy. Follow the glow into Town Hall Square and winding cobbled streets, where festive stalls brim with handmade crafts, ornaments, and gifts that carry Slovenia’s tales in every detail. Sip mulled wine, warm your hands with roasted chestnuts, and sample spiced gingerbread as carolers and musicians fill the air with holiday spirit.

Day 7 – A Winter’s Tale in Bled

If ever there were a place made for winter tales, it’s Bled. Encircled by mountains and crowned with a castle, come December, this jewel turns into a bona fide snow-dusted wonderland. See its charms in full bloom as you wander through its cozy market stalls, where handmade crafts, mulled wine, and honey-kissed delicacies tempt at every turn. Watch its eponymous lake unfold like a blanket of crystal against a backdrop of the Julian Alps. Then, roll up your sleeves for a private cooking class, where local flavors come alive in traditional recipes, ensuring you savor every bit of its warm holiday spirit.

Day 8 – Castles on the Road to Zagreb

As you turn the last page of your Slovenian fairytale, open the final chapter of journey by heading to Croatia, where Zagreb awaits to boast its renowned holiday delights. En route, enjoy one last fable at the Trakošćan Castle, a 13th-century icon rising from the forest like something dreamt up by the Brothers Grimm. Stroll its grand halls and gaze out over a mirror-like lake, where winter mists weave an air of quiet enchantment. Upon reaching Zagreb, check in, and soak in the festive atmosphere of lanterns, music, and merriment as Croatia’s capital welcomes you with open arms.

Suggested Accommodations

Rest up before taking to Zagreb’s festive streets at one of the following properties:

Day 9 – Holiday Splendor in Zagreb’s Iconic Market

There is a reason why Zagreb’s Advent (Christmas Market) is considered one of the best in Europe; and that’s because it transforms every corner of the city into a scene of pure holiday enchantment. Dip a gingerbread biscuit in a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy some live music in the heart of Ban Jelačić Square. Watch the locals engaged in merry pirouettes on the ice-skating rink in King Tomislav Square. Stroll along the Strossmayer Promenade and savor panoramic views of the gleaming city. Or make sure you don’t go home empty handed at the European Square, where cheerful stalls are filled with handmade gifts, ornaments, and local crafts.

Foodie’s Note

Zagreb’s Advent is home to some of the tastiest European Christmas treats. When roaming between market stalls, make sure to try the following:

• Kuhano Vino – Traditional mulled wine infused with spices, perfect for warming up on chilly evenings
• Fritule – Mini doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar, often flavored with citrus zest or rum
• Štrukli – A local pastry filled with cheese, available in both sweet and savory versions
• Čvarci – Crispy pork cracklings, a savory snack enjoyed with a glass of local beer
• Medenjaci – Honey cookies intricately decorated with festive designs, often given as gifts

Day 10 – Until the Next Holidays

Now that you’ve experienced the festive spirit of France, Slovenia, and Croatia, it’s time to carry it home. As your private driver whisks you off to Zagreb Airport, sneak one last glance at its lantern-lit squares and festive stalls, and ponder which Christmas market had the best treats or where the lights shone the brightest. Regardless, know that when brought together, these three countries embody the very meaning of holiday magic, and that’s what you’ve just witnessed!

The post In the Market for Some Magic: A Festive Getaway to France, Slovenia & Croatia appeared first on Blog | Travelive.

Let those champagne flutes sing as you embark on the ultimate anniversary trip to France! Make your celebration truly unforgettable by bringing the enchanting treasures of Paris to life and discovering the birthplace of the sparkling wonder that has been an essential part of so many special moments. Bright, jubilant, and luxurious, this itinerary is guaranteed to pop the cork on some incredible memories!

• 3 Nights in Paris  
• 3 Nights in Champagne
• Private Transfers
• Private Touring in Paris and Champagne

Day 1 – Arrival 

Welcome to France, and felicitations! Upon landing at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, a private driver will be waiting to transport you to your hotel of choice in the heart of the capital. Once checked in, take some time to unwind, before celebrating your arrival with a quaint evening tour of the city in one of the country’s most iconic vintage cars — the Citroën 2CV! Accompanied by a bottle of champagne, watch the Eiffel Tower sparkle in the dark, take a spin around the Arc de Triomphe, and savor a glorious overview of the City of Light from Montmartre, unveiling it in all its luminous glory.

Day 2 – Private Tour of Paris with Caviar & Champagne Tasting and Private Cruise on the Seine

Paris, je t’aime! Today, you will discover the magic behind the city that has captivated the hearts of travelers for centuries. Assisted by a private guide, revel in Paris’ iconic allure as you unveil fabled sights that so many dream of. Embrace its tantalizing essence while strolling through atmospheric neighborhoods that resonate with bohemian charms and whispers of romance. Complement its charms by exciting your palette with a lavish caviar and champagne tasting. Then, take an elegant cruise along the Seine, gliding past such landmarks as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre, celebrating them and yourself with some more bubbly.   

Day 3 – Private Shopping Tour

Given the occasion, why not treat yourself to some shopping in the fashion capital of the world? Step inside the glaring atrium of Samaritaine Paris Pont-Neuf, an essential destination for shoppers since 1870, and discover over 700 brands ranging from new designers to established luxury labels. For the ultimate experience, enlist the assistance of a personal shopper at Samaritaine’s Apartment, where a tailor-made selection of items and bespoke styling services await in the comforts of a sophisticated ambiance. Alternatively commemorate your trip with a one-of-a-kind portrait at an iconic Parisian photography studio that has photographed some of the most celebrated faces in history.

Day 4 – Paris – Champagne 

Today, you will bid adieu to Paris and head to Champagne, arguably the ideal place to raise a glass and toast an anniversary! After breakfast, a private driver will whisk you off to this dazzling region, where you will check into your hotel of choice. Once settled in, head out on a captivating tour of Reims, a haven of history and sparkling wine. Visit the awe-inspiring Gothic Cathedral, where generations of French kings were crowned. Then, step into the world of Champagne with a guided tour of a prestigious maison, exploring historic cellars before concluding with a tasting of the region’s eponymous drink.

Day 5 – Essential Champagne Tour

Celebrate your occasion in the most sparkling of ways with an unforgettable day in the heart of Champagne.  Savor an exclusive visit to a charming, family-run Champagne house, where tradition and passion flow in every bottle. Wander through sun-kissed vineyards, hearing the stories behind the vines, and enjoy a personalized tasting of their beautifully crafted cuvées. For lunch, let your driver suggest the perfect spot to toast the day over some delicious local cuisine. Then, venture to one of Champagne’s most iconic Maisons to uncover the labyrinths of its historic cellars, before concluding your day with a guided tasting of its aged treasures — each sip a celebration in itself.

Day 6 – Day at Leisure or Henri Giraud Domaine Experience

Savor this day at leisure, enjoying the amenities of your hotel, basking in the region’s charms, or celebrating on your own terms. Alternatively, dive further into the region’s glorious viticultural heritage by heading to the prestigious estate of a family-owned Champagne house, whose rich history dates back to the 17th century. There, indulge in exclusive tasting of signature cuvées, before enjoying a curated culinary journey where each dish is perfectly paired with their finest Champagnes. Conclude your visit with the unique Craÿothérapie® ritual, a luxurious wellness treatment inspired by the region’s iconic chalk terroir, which will leave you refreshed, radiant, and ready to toast to life.

Day 7 – Departure

It’s time to finish that last glass of bubbly and head home, taking plenty of effervescent memories with you. Following a leisurely breakfast, a private driver will be waiting to take you to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for your departure flight home.

The post A Toast to Your Anniversary: Celebrate in Style with Paris & Champagne  appeared first on Blog | Travelive.