Insight Vacations
Mediterranean Journey - Start Paris, Small Group
Mediterranean Journey – Start Paris, Small Group
Marvel at Gaudi’s masterpieces in Barcelona, spot locals sipping pastis in Nice and admire Florence the home of Michelangelo and the Renaissance, as you circle the azure waters of the Mediterranean. Embrace the city of Pisa with a stop at the famous leaning tower, where Italian astronomer Galileo was said to have pioneered his theories of gravity. In France, work up an appetite in the medieval streets. In Spain, dine with the locals in Basque tradition with an evening of San Sebastian pintxos tastings, snack-sized tapas, while sipping on a refreshing glass of local Txakoli wine. In Rome, taste the seasonal flavors and of course, handmade pasta.
Dining Summary
- 4 Dinner (D)
- 15 Breakfast (B)
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through a local food market – Bastille Marché. Visit a variety of stalls and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
- Paris: We walk up and down the “quartier” and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc’s spectacular jardin vertical ‘oasis d’Aboukir’, the Napoleonic “Egyptian” district etc.
Additional Included Highlights
- Personal radio headsets give you the freedom to wander during visits to famous highlights, without missing any of your Local Expert’s fascinating commentary.
- Hotel and restaurant tips are included – you’ll never have to worry about how much to give, nor search for foreign currency. We also include all taxes and porterage charges at hotels.
- We carry your bags for you and promptly deliver them to your hotel door.
- From time to time, your Travel Director will delight you with an Insight Flourish, which is a local specialty representing the destination.
- Stay connected with friends and family with our complimentary coach and hotel Wi-Fi (where available).
- If your arrival and/or departure flights are as per the itinerary start and end dates, then transfers are available at scheduled times. If your flights are outside these times, or you have booked additional nights accommodation with Insight Vacations, you may purchase transfers or make your own way from/to the airport.
Authentic Dining
- Paris: Join your Travel Director and fellow guests at a local restaurant in the heart of the city for a delightful dinner served with wine.
- Paris: Join an avid local foodie on a walk through a local food market – Bastille Marché. Visit a variety of stalls and sample local treats and delicacies along the way.
- San Sebastián: Enjoy an evening of pintxos, dining with locals in this Basque tradition. Your delicious dinner includes a wide variety of finger food delicacies, each with their own regional flavor, flair and presentation.
- Rome: Toast your Mediterranean journey with delicious Italian cuisine and wine.
Insight Choice
- Paris: We walk up and down the “quartier” and we see the school, the food stores, the housing situation, the heritage landmarks, the sports facilities and the theaters, in this car-free, pedestrianized, neighborhood. Landmarks will include passages couverts, perhaps also Patrick Blanc’s spectacular jardin vertical ‘oasis d’Aboukir’, the Napoleonic “Egyptian” district etc.
Insight Experiences
- Vatican City: Visit the Vatican Museums, witness the genius of Michelangelo in the Sistine Chapel and see St. Peter’s Basilica.
- Rome: Enjoy exclusive access to the Basilica of Saint Praxedes during an after-hours visit. This 9th-century basilica’s simple facade guards the world’s best-preserved Byzantine mosaics. The history of the church springs to life as you admire the interior’s treasured collection, including Bernini’s first sculpture and the renowned mosaics, illuminated for your visit. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a rare and unforgettable insight into Rome and its religious history.
Top Rated Highlights
- Chateau Chenonceau: Visit the majestic Chateau de Chenonceau, known as the ‘Ladies’ Chateau’ it perfectly embodies the elegance of 16th century design in the Loire Valley.
- Bordeaux: Your Local Expert will show you the quayside facades, Grand Theater, Triangle d’Or and magnificent Esplanade des Quinconces.
- San Sebastián: Led by your Local Expert, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Old Quarter including Plaza de la Constitucion.
- Madrid: See the highlights of the city with your Local Expert. Visit the Old Town, traveling along the elegant Paseo de la Castellana, past the fountain in the Plaza de Cibeles, the Cervantes Monument and Royal Palace, before crossing the Puerta del Sol.
- Barcelona: With your Local Expert, drive along the elegant Passeig de Grcia to witness some of the finest Modernist architecture as you journey through the Eixample district to see Gaudi’s extraordinary masterpiece, the mesmerizing Sagrada Família.
- Monaco City: Enjoy a drive along part of the Grand Prix circuit and wander the old town with your Travel Director to see the Royal Palace and the yacht-filled harbor.
- Monaco City: Explore inside Monaco Cathedral.
- Florence: Join a Local Expert to view the multi-colored marble cathedral, bell tower and baptistery, adorned by Ghiberti’s Gates of Paradise. Visit the political heart of the city, Signoria Square. See the Santa Croce Basilica, the final resting place of great Florentines like Michelangelo.
- Rome: During your orientation with your Travel Director see the medieval buildings, including Renaissance palaces and Baroque churches, scattered throughout the city.
Well-being
- Enjoy the comfort of Insight’s luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches.
- Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day.
| Day 1 |
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, arts and finance, Paris is also a major transportation hub, and will host the 2024 Olympics.
Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais. (The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is currently closed indefinitely for renovation due to a 2019 fire.) Marquee annual events in this world-renowned city include Bastille Day (July 14 each year, including flyovers, a military parade and fireworks) and Paris-Plages (mid-July to mid-August), where a temporary beach — complete with sand, chairs and palm trees — is created on the Right bank of the Seine River. Cobblestone walkways, beautiful bridges, breathtaking architecture, radiant streetlamps... Paris has ambiance to spare. Whether sitting at a cafe or actively exploring timeless landmarks and art, millions of visitors have discovered that Paris contains multitudes. |
| Day 2 |
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, arts and finance, Paris is also a major transportation hub, and will host the 2024 Olympics.
Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais. (The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is currently closed indefinitely for renovation due to a 2019 fire.) Marquee annual events in this world-renowned city include Bastille Day (July 14 each year, including flyovers, a military parade and fireworks) and Paris-Plages (mid-July to mid-August), where a temporary beach — complete with sand, chairs and palm trees — is created on the Right bank of the Seine River. Cobblestone walkways, beautiful bridges, breathtaking architecture, radiant streetlamps... Paris has ambiance to spare. Whether sitting at a cafe or actively exploring timeless landmarks and art, millions of visitors have discovered that Paris contains multitudes. |
| Day 3 |
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, arts and finance, Paris is also a major transportation hub, and will host the 2024 Olympics.
Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais. (The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is currently closed indefinitely for renovation due to a 2019 fire.) Marquee annual events in this world-renowned city include Bastille Day (July 14 each year, including flyovers, a military parade and fireworks) and Paris-Plages (mid-July to mid-August), where a temporary beach — complete with sand, chairs and palm trees — is created on the Right bank of the Seine River. Cobblestone walkways, beautiful bridges, breathtaking architecture, radiant streetlamps... Paris has ambiance to spare. Whether sitting at a cafe or actively exploring timeless landmarks and art, millions of visitors have discovered that Paris contains multitudes. |
| Day 4 |
Bordeaux is ready for its close-up! After years of improvements, modern public transportation is in place and the city is gleaming after a wave of restorations. When visiting this lovely destination, be sure to walk across the Garonne River-spanning Stone Bridge (17 arches in all!) and see Place des Quinconces, France's grandest public square. Gothic Cathédrale Saint-André, and famous art museums like Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux are must-sees as well. The city is the perfect launch point, too, for going tasting in this lovely wine-producing region. |
| Day 5 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Day 6 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Day 7 |
Known for its grand architecture, world-class museums, and thriving culinary scene, Madrid offers something for everyone. Walking through the streets of Spain's capital city, visitors can feel its rich heritage while enjoying its dynamic urban atmosphere. Art lovers will find Madrid to be a cultural treasure trove. The city's "Golden Triangle of Art" features three world-famous museums: the Prado Museum, showcasing works by masters like Velázquez and Goya; the Reina Sofía Museum, home to Picasso’s powerful "Guernica"; and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, offering an extensive collection of European art. For a glimpse into royal life, visitors can explore the grand Royal Palace of Madrid, one of Europe’s largest palaces, and its beautifully manicured Sabatini Gardens. Madrid’s culinary scene is another highlight of the city. Visitors can sample local specialties like churros dipped in thick hot chocolate, patatas bravas, or jamón ibérico. The tradition of tapas hopping, where small plates of flavorful dishes are paired with wine or beer for an authentic Madrid experience, is a must. Visitors can also enjoy Madrid’s green spaces, such as the expansive Retiro Park, perfect for a leisurely rowboat ride on its central lake, or the less crowded Casa de Campo, which offers trails and a cable car ride with panoramic views of the city. |
| Day 8 |
To visit Barcelona is to embrace both the past and the future. There is much to do and see in this cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, from medieval structures to beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites by Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner. FC Barcelona, the professional football club, is also a huge draw here.
Gaudí is responsible for many of Barcelona's must-see attractions, including iconic church La Sagrada Familia, the arts center Casa Mila, and public park system Park Güell. Culture, economics, architecture, and gastronomy all combine to make Barcelona a magical and unparalleled experience. Stroll pedestrian walkways in the old quarter, soak in the green spaces, and gaze at the Mediterranean, gelato in hand! |
| Day 9 |
To visit Barcelona is to embrace both the past and the future. There is much to do and see in this cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia, from medieval structures to beaches to UNESCO Heritage Sites by Antoni Gaudí and Lluís Doménech i Montaner. FC Barcelona, the professional football club, is also a huge draw here.
Gaudí is responsible for many of Barcelona's must-see attractions, including iconic church La Sagrada Familia, the arts center Casa Mila, and public park system Park Güell. Culture, economics, architecture, and gastronomy all combine to make Barcelona a magical and unparalleled experience. Stroll pedestrian walkways in the old quarter, soak in the green spaces, and gaze at the Mediterranean, gelato in hand! |
| Day 10 |
Nice, located along the French Riviera, combines Mediterranean charm with cultural elegance. Known for its sunny climate and stunning coastline, Nice has attracted artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. The Promenade des Anglais, a long stretch of seafront with breathtaking views, is perfect for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. The city’s old town, or Vieux Nice, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets filled with pastel-colored buildings, markets, and cafés. It is also home to boutiques and art galleries that reflect the city’s creative spirit. Nearby, the Castle Hill (Colline du Château) provides panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean. Nice boasts a vibrant art scene. The Musée Matisse houses an extensive collection of works by Henri Matisse, who spent much of his life in Nice. Art lovers will also appreciate the Musée Marc Chagall, which features some of the artist’s most iconic pieces. Food in Nice is a reflection of its Mediterranean heritage, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Visitors should try Niçoise salad, pissaladière (an onion and anchovy tart), and freshly caught seafood. |
| Day 11 |
Nice, located along the French Riviera, combines Mediterranean charm with cultural elegance. Known for its sunny climate and stunning coastline, Nice has attracted artists, writers, and travelers for centuries. The Promenade des Anglais, a long stretch of seafront with breathtaking views, is perfect for leisurely strolls or simply enjoying the relaxed atmosphere. The city’s old town, or Vieux Nice, is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets filled with pastel-colored buildings, markets, and cafés. It is also home to boutiques and art galleries that reflect the city’s creative spirit. Nearby, the Castle Hill (Colline du Château) provides panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean. Nice boasts a vibrant art scene. The Musée Matisse houses an extensive collection of works by Henri Matisse, who spent much of his life in Nice. Art lovers will also appreciate the Musée Marc Chagall, which features some of the artist’s most iconic pieces. Food in Nice is a reflection of its Mediterranean heritage, featuring fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Visitors should try Niçoise salad, pissaladière (an onion and anchovy tart), and freshly caught seafood. |
| Day 12 |
Florence (Firenze) is a compact city, but densely packed with spectacular art and architecture everywhere you look. The city center itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Birthplace of the Renaissance as well as Italy's fashion industry, Florence is imbued with an air of history and sophistication. Visitors are sure to be enchanted with the Florentine way of life, from the sensational Tuscan cuisine to the Michelangelo masterpieces. Art and food lovers will find much to embrace here. Looming over Florence is the Duomo, a red terracotta dome that is part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Bellissima! |
| Day 13 |
Florence (Firenze) is a compact city, but densely packed with spectacular art and architecture everywhere you look. The city center itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Birthplace of the Renaissance as well as Italy's fashion industry, Florence is imbued with an air of history and sophistication. Visitors are sure to be enchanted with the Florentine way of life, from the sensational Tuscan cuisine to the Michelangelo masterpieces. Art and food lovers will find much to embrace here. Looming over Florence is the Duomo, a red terracotta dome that is part of the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Bellissima! |
| Day 14 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 15 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Day 16 |
Often called the Eternal City, Rome stands alone as Italy's most visited destination. The third most populated city in the European Union, Rome boasts ancient sites, yet has a modern flair — an exhilarating mix of the Old World and the new.
Rome's must-see attractions include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and St. Peter's Basilica. Of course, within the city limits of Rome lies an independent country: Vatican City, the Roman Catholic Church headquarters and the only current example of a country inside a city. With its Renaissance architecture, ancient ruins, and works by Michelangelo, Rome is a vibrant destination offering spectacular examples of human achievement. Visitors wandering through this glorious city have so much to discover! |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
04/18/26 - 05/03/26 |
Starting At $7,720 |
Get A Quote | |
|
06/13/26 - 06/28/26 |
Starting At $7,795 |
Get A Quote | |
|
08/08/26 - 08/23/26 |
Starting At $7,565 |
Get A Quote |
Trip prices are per person, land only, based on double occupancy and reflect applicable discounts. Trip prices and discounts are subject to change.
Airfare is additional. Tour prices, dates and itineraries are correct at the time of the website going live, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking. Other restrictions may apply.
