Paris Castles Tour: A Royal Journey Near Paris

Your journey begins in Fontainebleau, a city steeped in royal history and elegance. Upon arrival around midday, enjoy lunch before diving into the opulence of the Château de Fontainebleau. This magnificent estate, inhabited by 34 monarchs over eight centuries, offers a rare look into the daily lives of France’s great rulers.

As you wander through the Grand Apartments, the splendid François I Gallery, the throne room, and the majestic ballroom, you’ll feel the echoes of emperors, kings, and queens who shaped France.

After the château, a charming little train takes you through the expansive gardens, offering scenic views of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Later, check into a comfortable 3-star hotel located just outside Paris. Settle in, relax, and enjoy your first evening surrounded by the tranquil charm of the countryside.

After breakfast, your Paris Castles Tour continues toward Meaux, a town known not only for its medieval elegance but also for its poignant role in World War I.

A guided tour aboard your coach leads you through the key battle sites of the First Battle of the Marne, where French forces halted the German advance just weeks into the war. Among the stops is the tomb of poet and lieutenant Charles Péguy, whose life was cut short in this decisive campaign.

Next, you’ll explore the episcopal city of Meaux, including the magnificent Saint-Etienne Cathedral, often compared to Notre-Dame in beauty and structure. Take time to admire the meticulously maintained Bossuet Garden, a splendid example of classical French landscaping.

In the heart of town, delve into the delicious tradition of Brie de Meaux. At the Maison du Brie, you’ll discover how this world-renowned cheese is made and enjoy a tasting session hosted by the Brotherhood of Brie de Meaux—a culinary and cultural highlight of your day.

Return to the hotel for a restful night.

Begin the day with breakfast before heading to Melun, home to the National Gendarmerie Museum. Through immersive exhibits, trace the evolution of one of France’s most iconic institutions—from its early roots to its modern missions. The museum offers a rare look at the tools, uniforms, and daily lives of the gendarmes.

The journey continues to the awe-inspiring Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a masterpiece that predates even Versailles. Built by Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV’s ambitious superintendent of finances, the château is a harmonious blend of architecture, landscaping, and decorative arts. During your guided visit, you’ll learn how Fouquet enlisted Louis Le Vau, André Le Nôtre, and Charles Le Brun—three artistic giants of the Grand Siècle—to bring his vision to life.

Their collective genius made Vaux-le-Vicomte a model for European palace design for over a century. Wander through its opulent halls and manicured gardens before returning to your hotel for the final night.

On your last day, enjoy breakfast and set off for Provins, a UNESCO-listed medieval town that once bustled with merchants and nobles during the great Champagne Fairs. The guided tour takes you through the city’s ramparts, starting at the Saint-Jean Gate and winding toward the Porte de Jouy. Stroll along cobbled paths to the Place du Châtel, then climb the César Tower, a powerful symbol of the Counts of Champagne.

You’ll end your tour at the Collegiate Church of Saint-Quiriace, a serene and sacred space where centuries of history converge. With its half-timbered houses, fortified walls, and sweeping views of the plains, Provins is the perfect finale to your Paris Castles Tour.

After the visit, your journey concludes.