Orange Circle: Incredible Europe 7-day Circular Tour

【Thursdays】Paris (540 km) → Geneva

This morning we’ll depart from Paris, head to Switzerland and arriving Geneva in the afternoon. Geneva, a town surrounded by stunning views of the Alps. Known as the “Capital of Peace”, Geneva is home to the European United Nations as well as the international headquarters of the Red Cross. We’ll explore the iconic 140m high water fountain on Lake Geneva, the flower clock in the English Garden which is a symbol of the city’s watchmakers. Next, visit the Palace of United Nations that houses the European United Nations headquarters. Next, wander around the old town area, soak up the well-preserved architecture, picturesque scenery, and extraordinary landmarks along the way. The Palace of Nations, home of the United Nations Headquarters at Geneva and the Red Cross Museum are popular photo spots.

【Fridays】Geneva (43 km) → Annecy (339 km) → Avignon

This morning we’ll head to Annecy, the Pearl of the Alps, a picturesque town cradled by the French Alps on the shores of Lake Annecy. Lake Annecy is one of Europe's purest lakes. We’ll discover the Palais de l’Île, the most famous building in Annecy. It separates the Thiou river into two canals, this picturesque fortified house resembles the bow of a stone ship. Next, we’ll make our way to Avignon, the heart of Provence. Provence, famous for its Lavender fields, the calming, delicate fragrance and dusky purple hue of lavender have enchanted people for centuries. It’s sunshine, sweet scents and culture treasures make it a much-loved holiday destination for tourists around the world. Avignon, known as the Popes’ city, was the capital of the papacy from 1309 to 1377, during which seven successive popes lived in Avignon. The Popes’ Palace (Palais des Papes) was built during this period. We will visit The Popes’ Palace (Palais des Papes), one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. We’ll walking along the city wall, and see Pont Saint-Bénézet, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

【Saturdays】Avignon (39 km) → Gordes → Abbaye de Sénanque (67 km) → Arles (230 km) → Perpignan

From Avignon, we’ll make our way to Gordes, one of the setting of the book “A Year in Provence” by Peter Mayle. Built on the foothills of the Monts of Vaucluse, Gordes is one of the most well-beautiful hilltop villages in France. Then visit another scenic spot in the book, Abbey de Sénanque, this 12th century Cistercian monastery is still an active monastery. With fields of rows of lavender in an isolated valley leading to a beautifully solumn sanctuary, makes it an iconic scene of Provence. In the afternoon, discover Arles, a beautiful city famous for being home to and a source of inspiration for painter Vincent Van Gogh. Arles used to be an old Roman town, you can spot numerous Roman remains everywhere. A stroll through Arles feels a bit like a walk through history. Van Gogh lived in Arles for more than a year. He produced over 200 paintings and drawings during his stay including “Café Terrace at Night”, “Bedroom in Arles”, “The Langlois Bridge at Arles”. Following Van Gogh’s footsteps, wandering around the Langlois Bridge, and the cafe at Place du Forum, from one of his nocturnal paintings, you will feel like his art is coming to life. After the visit, we will drive towards Spain, stay overnight in Perpignan, or city nearby.

(Please note: Lavender season in Provence isn't a year-round affair. It’s usually from mid June to mid August. And the best time to see the lavender also varies in different areas, depends on the altitude of the terrain and weather conditions during the previous months. This means we may adjust the itinerary to show you the best possible blooming. When it’s not the season, there will be no lavender field in bloom. We would visit the Lavender Museum instead. Your understanding is greatly appreciated.)

【Sundays】Perpignan (192 km) → Barcelona

This morning we’ll cross the border to Spain, and head straight to Barcelona. Explore Columbus Monument and La Rambla. Continue to visit the highlight of the day, Sagrada Família, the symbol of Barcelona, see the masterwork of Spanish Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Next we move on to Camp Nou, take some photos outside the home stadium of FC Barcelona, enjoy souvenir shopping. Follow by a visit to Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys. The Montjuïc Olympic Stadium is Barcelona's main facility for 1992 Olympics. Located on Montjuïc, it’s a perfect spot to overlook the city; Then arrive at Plaça de Catalunya, enjoy shopping and free time while soaking up the city's character in this lively square at the heart of Barcelona.

(Note on visiting Sagrada Família: We strongly recommend to book entry ticket in advance via http://www.sagradafamilia.org to avoid the long queue during peak season; Please select the time slot between 1-1:30 pm.)

【Mondays】 Barcelona (199 km) → Andorra (271 km) → Lourdes

This morning we’ll cross the border to Andorra. A tiny country in the heart of Pyrenees, sharing borders with France & Spain, with an area of 468 km2 only. Its capital, Andorra la Vella, is the highest capital city in Europe; Its mountainous location makes it a popular ski destination for Europeans but less well known among non-European travellers. We’ll stroll through Plaça del Poble, see the great view of the surrounding scenery. Andorra is a duty-free shopping paradise and attracts shoppers from nearby countries (also global travellers). Then make our way to Lourdes, France in the afternoon.

Overnight in Lourdes / nearby city

【Tuesdays】Lourdes (251 km) → Bordeaux

We’ll visit Lourdes. After the Virgin Mary's apparitions in 1858, millions of travellers & pilgrims visit every year in search of miraculous healings. Lourdes’ exquisite mountainous view is also a magnet for tourists. Next we’ll discover Bordeaux, the world capital of wine, visit the UNESCO site Cathédrale Saint-André (Bordeaux Cathedral) & The Quinconces Square. It’s the second largest square in Europe & the name comes from the way the trees are planted. Visiting a winery in Bordeaux is an agenda not to be missed! See the spectacular vineyards, learn how famous Bordeaux wines are made, and taste them. You can also buy some directly from the winery.

Overnight in Bordeaux / nearby city

(Note: Most of the wineries in Bordeaux are closed for visitors in August or during holidays. Winery visit would be cancelled during these periods. Your understanding is appreciated.)

【Wednesdays】Bordeaux (423 km) → Chambord (180 km) → Paris

This morning we’ll depart for Loire Valley, the longest river in France that extends over 1020km, known as the Garden of France. It enchants visitors with world-famous Châteaux de la Loire, a collection of castles along the two banks of the River Loire. We’ll visit Château de Chambord, the largest castle in Loire Valley built as a hunting lodge for King Francois I in 1519, its distinctive French Renaissance architecture is attributed by various architects from Italy, including Leonardo da Vinci, makes it a UNESCO site since 1981. Then we’ll head back to Paris, arriving at around 7pm.

Overnight in Paris / nearby city