Overview
This carefully curated journey takes travelers through the historic and cultural heart of France, blending medieval charm, breathtaking landscapes, and Parisian elegance.
The adventure begins in Carcassonne, where travelers step into a medieval fortress city, explore the Château Comtal, and enjoy regional cuisine. The journey continues to Albi, home to the impressive Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile and rich artistic heritage. From there, the itinerary leads to Sarlat, a picturesque town in the Dordogne region, where travelers uncover prehistoric wonders at Pech Merle Cave and experience local markets, a Gabare boat tour, and a visit to Castelnaud Castle.
In Bordeaux, travelers immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant history with a guided tour, a scenic cruise on the Garonne River, and an exploration of prehistoric workshops at Castel Merle. The journey then shifts to Paris, where iconic landmarks such as the Orsay Museum, Sacré-Cœur, and the Eiffel Tower await. A day trip to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte offers a glimpse into French aristocratic splendor before the final evening in the City of Light.
With guided experiences, regional specialties, and breathtaking sights at every turn, this journey through Périgord and Paris promises an unforgettable exploration of France’s past and present.
At Dream-Travel, we believe every journey should reflect the unique spirit of the traveler. Founded by René Piard, our mission is to make travel inspiring, accessible, and tailored to your needs. With our “à la carte” approach, we partner with educators to create personalized experiences that ignite curiosity and foster lasting memories.
We’re passionate about ensuring travel is available to everyone, which is why we design trips to fit a variety of budgets. Our flexible payment plans empower students to explore the world without financial strain, making dream adventures a reality.
At Dream-Travel, your journey starts with a vision—and we’re here to bring it to life.
Flight to Paris
Upon arrival in Toulouse, travelers will be greeted by their Tour Conductor and Tour Director at the airport. From there, they will embark on a transfer to the historic town of Carcassonne, pausing briefly along the way for a snack (not included). Once in Carcassonne, they will check in to their hotel and have time to settle in before setting out on a guided walking tour. As they explore, they will be captivated by the town’s breathtaking medieval architecture and rich history. The day will conclude with a delicious dinner, followed by a restful overnight stay at the hotel, preparing them for the exciting experiences ahead.
Tour Conductor and Tour Director
Transfer to Hotel
Tour of Carcassonne
Dinner
Overnight in Carcassonne
After breakfast and check-out, the group will embark on an immersive journey through history with a guided visit to the imposing Château Comtal. As they explore its ancient halls, they will uncover stories of medieval intrigue and grandeur. The adventure will continue with a scenic transfer to Albi, with a brief stop along the way for a quick refreshment before diving into the city's rich heritage. A guided walking tour will lead them through Albi’s charming streets, unveiling its vibrant past and culminating in the awe-inspiring Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. As evening falls, they will check into their accommodations before venturing out for a delightful dinner, savoring the flavors of the region. The day will conclude with a restful overnight stay, preparing them for more exciting discoveries ahead.
Château Comtal, also known as the Count’s Castle, is a medieval fortress located within the fortified city of Carcassonne in southern France. Constructed in the 12th century by the Trencavel family, the castle served as a strategic stronghold and administrative center during the region's turbulent history. It played a crucial role in the Albigensian Crusade and later underwent significant modifications under French rule, particularly during the 13th century when King Louis IX and Philip III reinforced its defenses. The castle features a blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, with a series of defensive walls, towers, and a moat designed to withstand sieges. Today, Château Comtal is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a major tourist attraction, offering visitors an opportunity to explore its well-preserved ramparts, courtyards, and historical exhibits that provide insight into medieval life and military engineering.
Tour Conductor
Guided Tour of Château Comtal
Transfer to Albi
Guided Tour of Albi and Cathédrale Sainte-Cécile
Dinner
Overnight in Albi
After a delightful breakfast and check-out, the group will set off to explore the breathtaking village of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie on a guided walking tour. Wandering through its picturesque streets, they will be captivated by its medieval charm and stunning views. Following the tour, there will be free time to enjoy lunch at leisure, soaking in the ambiance of this remarkable destination. The adventure will continue with a guided visit to Pech Merle Cave, where ancient prehistoric art and natural rock formations create an unforgettable experience. From there, a scenic transfer will lead them to Sarlat, a town rich in history and beauty. Upon arrival, they will check into their accommodations and unwind before indulging in a delicious dinner, savoring the region’s renowned cuisine. The day will end with a restful overnight stay, preparing them for the next chapter of their journey.
Tour Conductor
Guided walking tour of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie
Guided visit to Pech Merle Cave
Transfer to Sarlat
Dinner
Overnight in Sarlat
As the morning unfolds, the group will enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a guided walking tour of Sarlat, where they will be transported back in time through the town’s rich medieval history. Adding an interactive twist to their exploration, they will take part in an exciting "Ingredient Hunting Game" in the lively market, uncovering the unique flavors and regional specialties that define the area. The journey will then lead them to the charming village of La Roque-Gageac, where a scenic picnic lunch by the river will provide the perfect moment to relax and take in the breathtaking surroundings. From there, the adventure will continue on the water with a peaceful boat tour aboard a traditional gabarres de Beynac, offering a fresh perspective of the Dordogne’s stunning landscapes. The exploration will culminate at Castelnaud Castle, where a guided tour and hands-on activities will bring the medieval era to life. As the evening approaches, the group will return to their accommodations to unwind before enjoying a delightful dinner. The day will conclude with a restful overnight stay, ensuring they are refreshed for the next exciting leg of their journey.
Gabarres de Beynac offers a unique river cruise experience on the Dordogne River in southwestern France. These traditional flat-bottomed boats, known as gabarres, were historically used for transporting goods such as wood, wine, and salt. Today, they serve as a scenic and educational way for visitors to explore the stunning landscapes of the Dordogne Valley, particularly around Beynac-et-Cazenac, one of France's most beautiful villages. The guided boat tours provide insights into the region's rich history, medieval castles perched on cliffs, and local wildlife. Passengers can admire breathtaking views of landmarks such as Château de Beynac, Château de Castelnaud, and other historic sites along the river. This peaceful journey offers a glimpse into the past while enjoying the natural beauty of the Dordogne region.
Tour Conductor
Tour of Sarlat
Ingredient Hunting Game
Journey La Rogue-Gageac
Boat tour aboard a traditional Gabarres de Beyanc
The day will begin with breakfast at the hotel before check-out, setting the stage for an exciting journey into the prehistoric past. The group will visit Castel Merle, where immersive workshops will bring ancient traditions to life, offering hands-on experiences that reveal the ingenuity of early civilizations. From there, they will embark on a scenic transfer to Bordeaux, with a brief stop along the way to enjoy a snack. Upon arrival, a guided walking tour will lead them through the city's elegant streets, showcasing its stunning architecture, vibrant history, and renowned cultural landmarks. As the afternoon unfolds, they will board a boat for a picturesque cruise along the Garonne River, taking in Bordeaux from a unique waterside perspective. After checking into their accommodations, the group will unwind before savoring a delightful dinner, indulging in the region’s rich culinary heritage. The evening will conclude with a restful overnight stay, preparing them for the next chapter of their adventure.
As the sun rises over Bordeaux, the group will savor one last breakfast before setting off on the next stage of their journey. With luggage in hand, they will make their way to the train station, where a final farewell to their tour conductor will mark the transition to new adventures. Aboard the high-speed TGV, they will relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the French countryside while savoring a light meal before arriving in the heart of Paris at Gare Montparnasse. There, a new tour conductor will be waiting to welcome them and guide them to their hotel for check-in.
The Parisian adventure will commence with a metro ride to the renowned Orsay Museum, where a guided visit will provide deep insight into some of the world's most celebrated masterpieces. After exploring the museum, the group will enjoy a leisurely walk to the Eiffel Tower, passing by the historic Invalides for an exterior view of this iconic landmark.
Next, the journey will continue with a metro transfer to Montmartre, where a stroll through the charming streets will lead to the breathtaking Sacré-Cœur. Here, the group will take in panoramic views of the city while soaking in the unique atmosphere of this artistic neighborhood. The evening will wrap up with a delicious dinner featuring classic French cuisine before returning via metro to the hotel for a well-earned rest, preparing for more Parisian adventures ahead.
Gare Montparnasse is one of the major railway stations in Paris, France, serving as a key hub for high-speed TGV trains traveling to western and southwestern regions of the country, including cities like Bordeaux, Rennes, and Nantes. Originally built in the 19th century, the station has undergone several renovations, with a significant modernization in the 1960s and further upgrades in recent years to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. Today, Gare Montparnasse is a bustling transport center, featuring modern amenities such as shops, restaurants, and direct metro connections, making it a vital gateway for both commuters and travelers exploring France.
The morning will begin with a delightful breakfast, fueling the group for an exciting day ahead. They will then embark on a private coach ride through the picturesque countryside, arriving at the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte. Stepping into this architectural masterpiece, they will explore its lavish halls, exquisite décor, and sprawling gardens on a captivating guided tour. After soaking in the château’s grandeur, they will enjoy a picnic lunch on the scenic grounds, relishing a selection of French specialties.
The journey will then lead them back to Paris, where they will continue their discoveries with a visit to Notre Dame, marveling at its intricate Gothic details and rich history. A stop at the iconic Shakespeare & Co. bookstore will provide a moment to browse its enchanting collection of literary gems. As dusk settles over the city, the group will savor a hearty Alsacien dinner, indulging in the comforting flavors of regional cuisine. The evening will culminate with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, its lights shimmering from a nearby bridge. Finally, a smooth coach transfer will take them back to their hotel, where they will unwind and rest, ready for the adventures to come.
The final morning of the journey will begin with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, offering a moment to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the trip. With luggage in hand, the group will board a private coach for a smooth transfer to the airport. As the cityscape fades into the distance, they will take in their last glimpses of Paris, cherishing the memories made along the way. Upon arrival at the airport, they will prepare for departure, marking the end of an enriching and memorable trip.
