Imagine stepping into the world of Marie-Antoinette, where every cobblestone in Paris whispers tales of opulence and grace. Picture yourself strolling through the Marais, a district alive with the echoes of her era, where quaint cafés and chic boutiques await your discovery. As you wander, the spirit of this pioneering fashionista will guide you, revealing hidden gems of 18th-century art and culture that shaped her iconic style. Embark on a journey where history and luxury converge. Stay in a palace fit for royalty at Versailles, indulging in two nights of pure splendor. Explore the lavish public apartments and then retreat to Marie-Antoinette's private haven at the Petit Trianon, where every room whispers secrets of intrigue and elegance. Wander through gardens adorned with her beloved roses, and lose yourself in the whimsical charm of her cherished Hameau, a place where she once reveled in the joys of motherhood and love. Capture the essence of Marie-Antoinette's France with us, where each moment is a tribute to her enduring legacy. From the sparkle of Versailles' fireworks illuminating the night sky to the intimate stories woven into the tapestries of her life, this journey promises to immerse you in the splendor and spirit of a French queen. This is not just a trip—it's your chance to reign over history, embracing the allure of Marie-Antoinette's world as your own.
Here's a day-by-day itinerary of the trip.
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The Hôtel Square Louvois is a short distance from Opéra Garnier and Boulevard Haussmann. The Square Louvois Hotel elegantly combines contemporary design with Haussmann-like influences. Its refined style with Art Deco details makes the 4-star hotel the new chic place to be in the French capital. We will be enjoying their superior rooms.
The Trianon Palace is a 4-5-star hotel featuring majestic neoclassical architecture and opulent décor. We will stay in the spectacular Pavilion with stunning views over the hotel’s gardens. The Trianon is fit for a queen!
Meet your Host
Leading you in the footsteps of Marie-Antoinette will be the scholar, educator, and nationally certified tour guide, Susan Taylor-Leduc, Ph.D. Susan has been teaching art history in Paris for over 25 years, specializing in Marie-Antoinette and the gardens at Versailles. Most importantly, she's an absolute delight to be with! You will love your time with her.
Her influence lasts to this day
A pioneering celebrity and fashionista, Marie-Antoinette created her own style that, despite her tragic fate, still influences the French art de vivre. Join us as we discover Marie-Antoinette’s France and walk in her footsteps through 18th century Paris and Versailles.
Everything stated in itinerary above including all meals plus wine or beer with dinner (except where indicated)
Fabulous hotels fit for a queen
Accommodation at unique, 4-star or better hotels
Museum and other entry fees, including Marie-Antoinette's private chambers
All transportation in Paris and to/from Versailles (except airport transfers)
Expert Guides and Trip Leaders
A small group experience
One Secret of the Queen tailor made spa treatment (1.5 hours)
Roundtrip airfare to France, taxi to and from the airport
Any personal souvenirs or purchases
Additional wine, beer or spirits beyond what is offered at meals
Travel and Medical Insurance (required)
Fly into the Charles De Gaulle Airport and hop into a taxi to the hotel.
The trip officially starts on the afternoon of June 16th, but if you are traveling across an ocean to get to France, consider arriving a day early so you have time to relax and adjust to the local time zone. If you do decide to arrive early, you can book your pre-trip night directly on our website.
We will have a zoom call about 6 weeks before the trip starts to discuss all that information and give you a packing list. Here is a great website that we love that will help you with packing and travel trips.
June, the first month of the summer in Paris, is an agreeable month, with an average temperature of between 21.6°C (70.9°F) and 12.5°C (54.5°F).
Susan Taylor-Leduc will be your trip leader. Leading you in the footsteps of Marie-Antoinette will be the scholar, educator, and nationally certified tour guide, Susan Taylor-Leduc, Ph.D. Susan has been teaching art history in Paris for over 25 years, specializing in Marie-Antoinette and the gardens at Versailles. Most importantly, she's an absolute delight to be with! You will love your time with her.