Panorama of Burgundy – Lyon – Rhône Valley – Savoy (from Thessaloniki)

0
  • 4–5 Days
  • 3–4 Nights
  • Feb. 26 – Mar. 26
  • Thessaloniki
Information
• 🌍 Country: France
• 🎫 Tour Code: ATH-039-06_12-26-001

A unique journey through authentic France, where aristocratic history, haute cuisine, renowned vineyards, medieval towns, and enchanting Alpine landscapes come together to create a setting of unparalleled beauty. This is a journey that goes beyond the ordinary and reveals the most authentic, elegant, and charming side of France, far from the crowded tourist trails.

From legendary Burgundy—the land of the Dukes, grand monasteries, and the world’s finest wines—to the dazzling city of Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, every day of the journey unfolds before us scenes that seem plucked from the pages of a historical novel. The region of Savoy, with its azure lakes, Alpine villages, and majestic mountain peaks, adds a unique dimension to the journey, combining natural beauty with the aristocratic elegance of the French Alps.

We’ll explore towns and villages that have preserved their character unchanged over the centuries. We’ll tour picturesque historic centers, stroll through cobblestone alleys that tell stories of the Middle Ages, and admire imposing cathedrals, Renaissance mansions, and historic monasteries that have shaped European history. At the same time, we’ll travel through some of Europe’s most important wine-growing regions, where France’s most famous wines are produced and where the tradition of winemaking is an integral part of the local identity.

Dijon, Chambly, Avalon, Lyon, Annecy, Aix-les-Bains, Chambéry, Grenoble, and the stunning Rhône Valley come together to form an itinerary rich in culture, history, natural beauty, and authentic experiences. Each destination has been carefully selected to offer something unique and to contribute to a comprehensive introduction to French culture, architecture, cuisine, and way of life.

But beyond the destinations themselves, the way we travel is also of particular importance. The itinerary has been designed with the traveler’s comfort, quality, and meaningful experience in mind. Distances are well-balanced, itineraries are carefully planned, and the length of stay is sufficient to allow us to enjoy each place without rushing or unnecessary inconvenience. The selection of hotels, organized guided tours, and the overall structure of the trip ensure a high-quality experience from the first day to the last.

Why travel with us? Because we believe that a successful trip is not just a series of visits to attractions, but a complete experience that creates lifelong memories. With many years of experience in organizing group tours, we emphasize attention to detail, proper organization, and the quality of the services we provide.

We design our itineraries to combine the most important sights with authentic experiences; we carefully select itineraries and accommodations, and we ensure that each day flows comfortably, without a grueling pace. Our goal is for travelers to enjoy every moment of their trip, knowing that everything has been organized with professionalism, consistency, and a genuine interest in their experience.

For us, every trip is a promise of quality, reliability, and authentic experiences. And it is precisely this promise that we invite you to experience with us, on one of the most beautiful trips France has to offer. A journey full of sights, scents, flavors, and emotions. A journey you won’t just remember—you’ll want to relive it.

Departure & Arrival Location

Thessaloniki "Macedonia" Airport (Google Maps)

The price includes

  • Luggage1 personal item + 1 carry-on bag (up to 8 kg) + 1 checked bag (up to 23 kg)
  • ToursTransportation—tours by luxury bus according to the itinerary; Experienced tour guide; Civil liability insurance
  • NutritionBreakfast every day

The price does not include

  • SpectaclesAdmission Tickets to Attractions Admission ticket to the Abbey of Cluny.
  • Accommodation TaxesCheckpoint: 45€ per person Accommodation tax: 20 euros for the 6 nights
Additional Information
  • Admission fee to Cluny Abbey: 11 euros per person + 3 euros for English-language audio guides
  • "Les Bulles" cable car ticket (round-trip) for the ascent to the Bastille Fortress: 10 euros per person
Book early to get the best price!
Prices are dynamic and may increase.
Field Trip Itinerary

DAY 1THESSALONIKI – DOL – DIJON

Meet at “Macedonia” Airport and flight to Geneva, one of Europe’s most international and cosmopolitan cities, built on the shores of Lake Geneva and framed by the breathtaking scenery of the Alps. Upon our arrival, we immediately begin our exploration of one of France’s most authentic and charming regions: the legendary Burgundy, a land of nobles, dukes, monasteries, vineyards, and culinary traditions that have shaped European history. Our journey takes us through landscapes of rare beauty, with lush green hills, vineyards stretching to the horizon, and small traditional villages that look like they’ve been plucked from a postcard of the French countryside.

Our first stop is the enchanting city of Dol, one of the best-preserved historic cities in eastern France and the birthplace of the great scientist Louis Pasteur. Built on the banks of the Doubs River and crisscrossed by picturesque canals, the town retains all the charm of the Renaissance and the Middle Ages. During our tour, we’ll visit the magnificent Collegiate Church of Our Lady (Collégiale Notre-Dame), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets lined with old mansions, and enjoy the idyllic views of the canals reflecting the facades of the historic buildings. Dole is considered by many to be one of the most atmospheric small towns in France and offers an authentic introduction to the culture and aesthetic of the region.

We continue on to magnificent Dijon, the historic capital of Burgundy and one of the most important cities of medieval Europe. A city of the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, Dijon experienced a period of great prosperity during the 14th and 15th centuries, transforming its historic center into a veritable open-air museum of architecture and art. On our first tour, we’ll see the famous Place de la Libération, the impressive Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, the characteristic medieval half-timbered houses, the elegant Renaissance mansions, and the imposing Saint-Bénigne Cathedral. The city exudes aristocratic refinement, while the numerous boutiques, traditional pastry shops, local markets, and wine bars create an atmosphere of authentic French elegance. Check-in at the hotel and time for a first evening stroll through the illuminated old town, where the monuments and squares take on a particularly romantic atmosphere. Overnight stay.

DAY 2DIJON – AVALON – CHAMBLY – DIJON

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by a day dedicated to exploring the authentic heart of Burgundy, a region rightly considered one of Europe’s most important cultural and wine-producing centers. Today’s itinerary combines medieval towns, vineyard-dotted landscapes, and scenes that capture the timeless charm of the French countryside.

Our first stop is the beautiful Avalon, a medieval town built amphitheatrically on a rocky hill that overlooks the Couzen River valley. The town’s history stretches back through the ages, and our tour reveals a place that seems to have remained almost unchanged since the Middle Ages. The stone fortifications, towers, old gates, and mansions create an exceptionally atmospheric setting. As we walk through the city’s narrow streets, we’ll come across picturesque squares filled with flowers, traditional cafés, and small shops that preserve the authenticity of provincial France. Standouts include the historic Clock Tower and the Church of Saint-Lazare, an important local landmark that bears witness to Avalon’s centuries-old history.

We continue northward toward the legendary Chambly, a name synonymous with world-class winemaking. The region is famous for its Chardonnay vineyards, which produce some of the world’s finest white wines. The drive through the vineyards is a special experience in itself, as the gentle hills are covered with endless rows of vines that create a landscape of unique harmony. Upon arriving in Chambly, we’ll tour its historic center with its traditional stone houses, historic wine cellars, small wine bars, and atmospheric squares. We’ll visit the Church of Saint-Martin, enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of this small town, and feel the pulse of a region that has been synonymous with the art of winemaking for centuries.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Dijon, where we’ll have time to further enjoy the city’s elegant atmosphere, stroll through its historic narrow streets, visit the local markets, or sample Burgundy’s famous culinary creations. Overnight stay.

DAY 3DIJON – ABAY DE CLINY – BOZOLE – PEROUZ – LYON

After breakfast, we depart from Dijon and set out on a spectacular journey through the historic heart of central France, where medieval heritage meets the great wine traditions and authentic landscapes of the French countryside.

Our first stop is the imposing Abbey of Cluny, one of the most important monastic centers of medieval Europe and a landmark for all of Western Christianity. We will tour the interior of the monument and learn about its history, as it was founded in the 10th century and remained for centuries the largest religious building in the Western world, before the construction of St. Peter’s Basilica. Today, the abbey’s ruins still exude the power and grandeur of an era when spiritual authority shaped the course of Europe.

We continue through the lush green hills of Beaujolais, a region synonymous with France’s winemaking tradition and the refinement of its renowned wines. The landscape is constantly changing, with vineyards, small villages, and stone wineries that paint an authentic picture of the French countryside.

The next stop is the fairytale-like Perouges, one of France’s best-preserved medieval villages. Perouges, with its stone alleyways, wooden shutters, flower-filled courtyards, and small squares, creates a setting that seems frozen in time. It’s no coincidence that it has served as the natural setting for numerous period films, thanks to its utterly authentic atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we arrive in Lyon, the great metropolis of southeastern France, built at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Check-in at the hotel and a first glimpse of this atmospheric city. Overnight stay.

DAY 4LYON – CITY TOUR

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll spend the day in Lyon, a jewel of a city that uniquely combines history, architectural elegance, and its renowned culinary identity.

We’ll start in the old town, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance complexes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, in the cobblestone alleys, we’ll discover the famous traboules, the hidden passageways connecting courtyards and buildings that were a vital part of the city’s commercial life during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. We’ll admire the impressive Cathedral of St. John, the Renaissance mansions, and the small squares that retain an almost cinematic atmosphere.

Next, we’ll climb the hill of Fourvière, the historic cradle of Lyon, where the impressive Basilica of Our Lady of Fourvière stands out. From this vantage point, we’ll enjoy one of the most breathtaking panoramic views in France. On the same hill, we’ll also explore the city’s Roman heritage, with ancient theaters that bear witness to Lyon’s great importance during the Roman Empire.

The tour continues to the modern heart of the city, featuring the impressive Place Bellecour, the elegant boulevards, and the chic cafés. Lyon is rightly considered the gastronomic capital of France, with its traditional bouchons offering authentic flavors that have made the city a global benchmark. Free time and overnight stay.

DAY 5LYON – ANNESY – EX-LE-BAN – CHAMBERY – LYON

Breakfast and departure for the enchanting region of Savoie, one of France’s most spectacular natural areas, where lakes, mountains, and cosmopolitan cities create a landscape of unparalleled beauty.

Our first stop is the fairytale town of Annecy, known as the “Venice of the Alps.” Built on the shores of the lake of the same name, with its turquoise waters and canals crisscrossing the old town, Annecy is considered one of the most picturesque cities in Europe. The Palais de l’Île, the city’s iconic landmark, and the castle towering high above create a scene of unique beauty. We’ll have time for a stroll and some free time in the historic center, so we can enjoy the city’s unique atmosphere, explore its picturesque alleys, relax at lakeside cafés, or do some shopping.

We continue on to the cosmopolitan Ex-les-Bains, a historic spa town from the Belle Époque era, built next to Lake Bourget. The town retains its aristocratic aura to this day, with a casino, old thermal baths, and elegant boulevards that exude the grandeur of bygone eras.

Next stop is historic Chambéry, the former capital of the Duchy of Savoy. The Dukes’ Castle, the iconic Fontaine des Éléphants, and the medieval alleyways create a city with a rich historical character and unique charm. Chambéry is the perfect way to round out our day, immersed in an atmosphere of authentic Savoyard elegance and historical continuity. As we wander through the city center, we’ll encounter a vibrant mosaic of medieval arcades, narrow streets, and elegant facades that bear witness to its important role as the former capital of the Duchy of Savoy. A special highlight of our tour is the imposing Castle of the Dukes of Savoy, which we’ll view from the outside, as it dominates the historic center and stands as a timeless symbol of the region’s political and cultural history. Just a few steps away, the impressive Fontaine des Éléphants, with its distinctive monument, serves as a landmark and a favorite meeting spot for locals and visitors alike. Our tour concludes as we wander through the picturesque medieval alleys, small squares, and arcades that preserve the unaltered charm of a bygone era, offering a final glimpse of an authentic Savoyard town before our return to Lyon. Overnight stay.

DAY 6LYON – GRENOBLE – BASTILLE – LYON

After breakfast, we set out on one of the most impressive and spectacular routes in southeastern France, heading for Grenoble, also known as the “capital of the French Alps.” The city is situated in an exceptionally privileged geographical location, surrounded by three majestic mountain ranges—the Vercors, the Chartreuse, and the Belledonne—creating a natural amphitheater of unparalleled beauty. As we approach the city, the landscape changes dramatically: the Alpine peaks rise around us, while the Isère River valley opens up before us, foreshadowing a city that uniquely combines nature, history, and a modern urban vibe.

As we tour the historic center of Grenoble, we’ll discover a city with a strong personality and deep historical roots. Place Grenette is the heart of the old town, filled with cafés, a lively atmosphere, and elegant neoclassical buildings, while just a few steps away, Saint-André Square transports us to a more historic and aristocratic setting, with the impressive Palace of the Duchy of Grenoble towering imposingly overhead. Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its simple yet dynamic architecture, bears witness to the city’s centuries-old religious and cultural significance. In the narrow streets around the historic center, modern life in Grenoble meets old France in a harmonious coexistence that characterizes the city.

The highlight of the day is the ascent to the Bastille Fortress, one of Grenoble’s most iconic landmarks. The experience begins with the famous “Les Bulles” cable car, with its distinctive glass spheres that hover over the city and gradually ascend toward the fortress, offering one of the most impressive urban panoramic rides in Europe. As we ascend, the view becomes increasingly majestic: the city spreads out below us, the Isère River carves its path through the valley, creating a breathtaking scene. At the top of the Bastille, the landscape transforms into a veritable natural balcony overlooking the Alps, offering unique photo opportunities and moments of complete connection with nature. Free time to explore the fortress and enjoy the breathtaking view before we begin our return journey to Lyon, once again traversing the region’s stunning Alpine roads.

In the afternoon, we return to Lyon, where our final night in the city offers the perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll along the illuminated banks of the Rhône and the Saône or for an authentic culinary experience at the traditional bouchons, perfectly rounding out a day full of sights, contrasts, and vivid travel experiences. Overnight stay.

DAY 7LYON – VIENNA – COT ROTI – TAIN L’HERMITAGE – THESSALONIKI

It’s the last day of our trip, and after breakfast, we’ll set out for the stunning Rhône Valley, one of Europe’s most renowned wine-producing regions, where nature and tradition combine to create a landscape of unique beauty.

Our first stop is historic Vienne, with its magnificent Roman monuments, such as the Ancient Theater, the Temple of Augustus and Livia, and the Gothic city center, which retains a strong medieval character. We continue through the famous Côte-Rôtie, one of France’s most important vineyards, with its striking terraces covering the steep slopes of the Rhône, creating a landscape of exceptional beauty. Next comes the picturesque Tournon-sur-Rhône, with its medieval castle towering over the river, and across the river lies the renowned Tain-l’Hermitage, world-renowned for its exceptional Hermitage wines.

After taking in the final sights of the authentic French countryside, we head to the Lyon airport for our return flight, enriched by the experiences of a journey that combines history, culture, nature, and gastronomy in their most authentic forms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a refund?

The possibility of a refund and/or any deductions depends on the terms of the specific package, the time of cancellation, and the respective suppliers. For your specific case, please review the General Terms and Conditions or contact us.

Is there travel insurance?

Some packages include travel insurance, or optional coverage may be available, depending on the destination and itinerary. For available options and coverage terms, please contact us or refer to the General Terms and Conditions.

Can I change the date of the field trip?

A date change may be possible subject to availability and provided that the terms of the package and/or suppliers allow it. There may be an additional charge and/or a price difference. Please contact us to verify and for details.

How do I make a reservation, and when is it confirmed?

The reservation is finalized in accordance with the procedure set forth in the General Terms and Conditions of Participation (e.g., confirmation and payment of the amount/deposit, where required). For specific steps and deadlines applicable to this particular package, please contact us.

Could the program, schedule, or benefits change?

The itinerary is based on available schedules and services; however, changes or adjustments may occur before and/or during the trip for operational reasons and/or due to unforeseen circumstances. In any case, the General Terms and Conditions of Participation apply, and participants will be notified accordingly.

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