September 18-24
Updated Itinerary!
This September, we’re focusing on the glorious, glamorous history of l’art de vivre, both historical and contemporary. Our schedule still has a few openings, (September’s cultural calendar hasn’t yet been set!) but scroll down to see what we already have planned. Private tours of historic châteaux, visits to not-your-typical museums, unique special events, and so, so, much more.
Of course, there will be free time to explore, and we’re here to help you make the most of your time in Paris!
Note: Itinerary subject to change based on issues and circumstances beyond the control of Decor Tours.
WEDNESDAY, SEPT 18
We’ll start our time in Paris together with a leisurely stroll through our wonderful home base of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, long a haven for artists, writers, intellectuals, and the businesses that supported them. Would you like to see where Marie-Antoinette purchased her chocolates? Where Oscar Wilde “dueled” his wallpaper? One of the oldest churches in Paris? We’ll also point out some of our favorites spots in what has long been Decor Tours’ neighborhood of choice while in Paris.
We’ll finish with cocktails and light bites at an iconic Left Bank destination, leaving your evening free.
THURSDAY, SEPT 19
The often over-looked Musée de l'Orangerie will be our first stop, followed by a visit to one of the most interesting and appealing museums to open in Paris in recent years, the Hôtel de la Marine.
An exceptional gourmet lunch at Hôtel de la Marine will follow.
FRIDAY, SEPT 20
If you’ve ever wondered what the inside of a true Paris atelier was like, today is your opportunity to see several different artisans working in unique materials and media. Our list of visits changes with every trip to Paris…we’re very excited for these special finds!
And, no, this image isn’t one of our stops, but it is highly recommended—Musée Gustave Moreau—that staircase alone!
SATURDAY, SEPT 21
A long, but very inspiring day with customized guided tours of two magnificent châteaux.
Our first stop will be Château de Fontainebleau, the “family home” of the French monarchy for centuries. Our vetted guide will provide us with insights and opportunities that are typically not available.
After a break for gastronomic lunch (included) we’ll go to Vaux le Vicomte, considered to be the model for Versailles. Once again we have insider access as part of our exclusive guided tour. We’re planning to stay late at this beautiful estate to experience an incredible candlelit evening, complete with champagne, giving us the opportunity to see what the château may have looked like in the 18th century.
NOTE: Dinner is not included, but there is a snack bar on site. A private van will take us back to Paris.
SUNDAY, SEPT 22
This is your chance to:
• Visit the famous Paris Flea Market
• Shop-til-you-drop
• Spend the day exploring
•Discover a new-to-you museum
• Indulge yourself, whatever that may mean for you!
Let you know how you’d like to spend a un dimanche à Paris (a Sunday in Paris) and we'll do our best to make it happen!
MONDAY, SEPT 23
Our first stop is Château de Malmaison, Joséphine Bonaparte’s work-of-a-lifetime. A fashion icon in her time, Joséphine’s work at Malmaison has profoundly influenced interior design throughout the decades, and it also offers a unique glimpse of the private lives of the Bonaparte-Beauharnais family. After a light “picnic” style lunch, we head to La Galerie Dior, which is more than just a single designer retrospective. It is an exceptional opportunity to truly see couture and gain a better understanding of what it means on many levels.
Not ready to leave?
Neither are we! If you’re interested in another day of exploring why not join us for a day-long adventure to the Musée de la Toile de Jouy and then to the splendor of Versailles? The additional fees and details for this extra day are available on the registration form.
Note: Itinerary subject to change based on issues and circumstances beyond the control of Decor Tours.
What’s Included?
• Six nights at Hôtel Pont Royal
An historic four-star hotel in Saint-Germain, breakfast included. Shared double occupancy twin-bed rooms. Single occupancy available for an additional fee. Please contact us for details.
• Local transportation in Paris
Airfare is not included, but we’ve taken care of everything else. You’ll be picked up at Charles de Gaulle (or your arrival destination) and brought to the hotel. Paris destinations will be mostly by Metro, with a weekly unlimited pass, while most out-of-town trips will be with a private driver. At the end of our time together, we’ve arranged for your transportation back to your preferred departure destination. (Taxi/car service for any independent activities not included.)
• Meals (in addition to breakfast) as specified
Two gourmet lunches are include; dinners are not included and we STRONGLY recommend you make dinner reservations well in advance of the trip, especially if you want to try someplace specific.
• Entry fees and VIP passes
For all museums, monuments, and other paid entry visits, plus all guided tours.
• Expertise
Our 20+ combined years of travel, specifically design-focused travel, to Paris and its environs. We’ve put together an amazing itinerary, and left room for you to tell us what you’d like to see and do as well.
Cost: $5,995
This price is for double-occupancy, shared room, no additional options (as offered on the registration form) included.
Single occupancy option available, please contact us if interested.