Day 1: London to Paris
We leave St Pancras International on an afternoon Eurostar departure for Paris, where we are transferred to our overnight hotel. Take the chance to explore the French capital this evening, maybe by taking to the water for an evening cruise along the romantic Seine or enjoying dinner in a cosy bistro in the artists' district of Montmartre. For an amazing view over Paris, the ‘City of Lights', you can linger on the steps of the majestic Sacré-Coeur basilica and see the city spread out at your feet.
Day 2:Onwards to Nice
We catch our high-speed train down through France into Provence, where the line runs along the beautiful coastline of the glittering Mediterranean to Nice.We are transferred to our home for the next five nights, the 4* Hotel Nice Riviera. (B)
Day 3: Nice Carnival
Today you are free to explore the town and surrounding area. Nice, with its cobweb of intricately linked streets in the Old Town and seafront promenade, is the epitome of Côte d’Azur elegance and is a delight to stroll around. Tonight we sit back and enjoy one of the highlights of the tour, the evening carnival procession. Be amazed at the colourful, innovative floats and lavish costumes that pass in front of us in our reserved grandstand seats. (B)
Day 4: Menton Lemon Festival
Today we set out by coach to Menton to visit its famous annual Lemon Festival. The route of our journey provides incredible views over the beautiful villas, sweeping bays and picturesque towns clinging to the rugged hills. The town is transformed at this time of year as floats parade through the streets and giant citrus decorations are displayed in the town’s gardens.We have space reserved in one of the stands to watch the spectacular procession. (B)
Days 5-6: Days at leisure
Why not take this opportunity to explore further afield? Monaco has plenty to offer its visitors, including the world-famous Casino and many designer boutiques.The Oceanographic Museum, with its enormous aquariums, should not be missed and the Prince’s Palace, perched high on the Rocher de Monaco overlooking the sea, is a lovely place to visit.
Alternatively, Antibes is a pretty harbour town which is home to the Château Grimaldi, an imposing fortress which houses some of Picasso’s most vibrant works. Just 20 minutes west by train is Cannes, venue of the renowned Film Festival and ideal for last-minute shopping in the sophisticated boutiques or strolling along the famous Croisette. (B)
Day 7: Homeward bound
Today we retrace our steps on the high-speed TGV line to Paris, where we change to the Eurostar for the last leg of the journey to St Pancras International. (B)
Your hotel
In Nice we stay in the boutique-style 4* Hotel Nice Riviera, ideally situated close to the Old Town and within walking distance of the Promenade des Anglais. The en suite rooms all have air conditioning, safe, minibar, satellite television and hairdryer. The hotel also boasts a heated indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi and bar.
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday.
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