Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Bring your class to discover different periods in French history on this adventure from Paris to Normandy. Your students will wander through the ornate halls of the Palace of Versailles, learn more about France’s agricultural history during dinner in the Cave aux Moines, explore the historic monastery of Mont-Saint-Michel, and visit key sites of WWII along the Normandy coast. Your group will also discuss the architecture of the Notre-Dame and explore the iconic collection of the Louvre.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to France (Paris)
Day 2
Arrive in Paris
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 3
Paris guided sightseeing tour
What’s that huge white arch at the end of the Champs-Élysées? It’s the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 after his victory at Austerlitz. Your licensed local guide will elaborate on this and other Parisian landmarks. See some of the city’s most famous sites, including the ornate 19th-century Opera, the presidential residence, and the Place de la Concorde—where, at the centre, you’ll find the Obelisk of Luxor, a gift from Egypt in 1836. Spot chic locals (and plenty of tourists) strolling the Champs-Élysées. Look up at the iron girders of the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World's Fair to commemorate the centenary of the French Revolution. Visit Les Invalides (a refuge for war-wounded soldiers) and the École Militaire (Napoleon’s alma mater).
Louvre Museum visit
The world’s largest art museum, the Louvre, is housed in a former medieval fortress and entered through I.M. Pei’s striking glass pyramid. Inside, discover masterpieces like the Mona Lisa, Venus de Milo, and Winged Victory, along with vast collections of Egyptian antiquities, Greek ceramics, and works spanning seven departments. Please note: The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays.
Day 4
Travel to Loire Valley
Château de Chambord photo stop
Day 5
Loire Valley châteaux excursion
In the Loire Valley, medieval fortresses evolved into Renaissance showpieces along the riverbanks. Visit Azay-le-Rideau, a fairy-tale castle whose limestone turrets and slate spires rise from an island in the Indre River. Continue to Château de Chenonceau, gracefully spanning the Cher with arches and gardens. Designed and expanded under Catherine de Medici, its stone gallery reflects the elegance of the French court.
Day 6
Travel to St. Malo
Day 7
Mémorial de Caen visit
This contemporary museum for peace in Caen tells the full story of D-Day and explores the impact and legacy of World War II through interactive displays, powerful exhibits, historical artifacts, films, and moving personal stories from survivors.
LEAP
LEAP Soldiers' Stories
Step into the shoes of Canadian servicemen who took part in the D-Day landings in Normandy. Learn about their lives and experiences to gain both personal and historical perspective.
Pointe du Hoc visit
Stand atop the windswept cliffs of Pointe du Hoc and trace the path of U.S. Army Rangers who scaled its 100-foot face under enemy fire on D-Day. Carved into the earth by fierce combat, this site offers a powerful glimpse into the courage and sacrifice that helped turn the tide of World War II.
Day 8
Travel to Paris
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Lucerne
Travel by TGV to Basel and enjoy a city walk featuring Basel Minster, Market Square, and Middle Bridge. Continue to Lucerne for a Tour Director-led sightseeing tour including Chapel Bridge, the Lion Monument, Jesuit Church, and Weinmarkt and Ornmarkt Squares. Then, take an excursion to Mt. Pilatus for breathtaking before heading home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
Transportation to and from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from Paris and the Loire Valley
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.