Overview
Travel through France and Germany on an enriching journey that blends iconic cities, cultural heritage, and scenic beauty, with a memorable extension into the stunning Rhineland. Begin in France, exploring Paris’s world-famous landmarks and charming streets before discovering the character of its countryside, then continue into Germany to experience historic cities, medieval architecture, and vibrant traditions. The journey culminates with an unforgettable excursion along the Rhine River, where fairytale castles, rolling vineyards, and picturesque villages create one of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes—offering a perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty in one seamless travel experience.
Itinerary
France and Germany
- Cultural Exploration
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.
Paris city walk
Take in Paris on foot, strolling wide boulevards, manicured parks, and lively streets filled with cafés and flower stalls. Cross to the Île de la Cité to view the storied Notre-Dame Cathedral, centrepiece of French history, then wander the charming Île St. Louis and the vibrant Latin Quarter, rich with student life and culture.
Day 3
Paris guided sightseeing tour
Explore Paris with a licensed local guide on a sightseeing tour of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Admire the Arc de Triomphe at the top of the Champs-Élysées, stroll the grand boulevard lined with shops and cafés, and see the ornate 19th-century Opera House. Look up at the Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 World’s Fair, and Les Invalides, Napoleon’s military refuge, along with other historic sites.
Versailles guided excursion
Once the seat of French royal power, the Palace of Versailles was transformed by Louis XIV into a symbol of monarchy and grandeur. Accompanied by a licensed guide, admire the magnificent Hall of Mirrors, lavish State Apartments and beautifully landscaped gardens filled with fountains and sculptures. Visit Marie Antoinette’s rustic hamlet, where she sought refuge from court life in a picturesque village setting. Please note: Versailles is closed on Mondays.
Seine River cruise
See the city from the water on an hour-long cruise along the River Seine. The Seine cuts right through Paris, dividing the city in half. Spot the Eiffel tower rising up on the Left Bank, the walls of the Louvre on the Right Bank. A guide will point out other monuments and architectural marvels as you pass, many of which are illuminated by clear white light at night.
Day 4
Travel to France (Strasbourg) via TGV
Strasbourg guided sightseeing tour
Welcome to Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace-Lorraine where French and German traditions meet. With a licensed guide, explore Petite France, the city’s medieval quarter of canals and half-timbered houses. Visit Strasbourg Cathedral, a sandstone masterpiece blending Romanesque and Gothic styles, and admire the intricately carved Maison Kammerzell, a reminder of the city’s rich mercantile past.
Day 5
Colmar & the Maginot Line excursion
Explore part of the vast Maginot Line, France’s eastern fortifications built after World War I but unable to withstand the tanks and bombs of World War II. Tour Hackenberg, the largest fort, with underground tunnels, barracks, kitchens, and even trains moving soldiers and ammunition. Then shift from war to beauty in Colmar, a 16th-century trading town of canals, bridges, and flower-decked, half-timbered houses.
Four-à-Chaux Fortress visit
Hidden beneath the hills near Lembach, the Four à Chaux Fortress reflects the fears and defences of pre-World War II Europe. Built of stone and steel, it once housed soldiers in a secret world of tunnels, doors, and strategy. Today, walking its passageways feels like stepping back into a moment of resilience frozen in time.
Day 6
Travel to Germany (Heidelberg)
Heidelberg Tour Director-led sightseeing
Join your Tour Director for a sightseeing tour of Heidelberg, a charming city surrounded by mountains, forests, and the Neckar River. Stroll through Market Square for views of Germany’s oldest university, then visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance landmarks north of the Alps. Learn about its turbulent history from the Thirty Years’ War to a lightning strike in 1764, and explore the castle courtyard to see the world’s largest wine barrel, a symbol of the city’s enduring spirit and charm.
Day 7
Rothenburg excursion
Experience the charm of Rothenburg, a medieval town along Germany’s picturesque Romantic Road, where Christmas traditions are celebrated year-round. Discover its remarkably preserved medieval walls, historic Marktplatz and impressive Gothic St. Jakob’s Church. Learn about the legendary mayor who saved the town during the Thirty Years’ War by drinking nearly four litres of wine, a tale brought to life by mechanical figures on the town hall clock.
LEAP
LEAP Debate the Great
Meet six influential figures from Germany’s history, then join a lively debate to argue their accomplishments and decide together who deserves the title of greatest German.
Day 8
Flight home from Frankfurt
Day 9
Return home
Optional Extension
Add 2 Days in Rhineland
Travel through Cologne and visit the stunning Cologne Cathedral before continuing into the heart of the Rhineland. Enjoy a relaxing Rhine River cruise from Koblenz to Rüdesheim, taking in picturesque landscapes and charming riverside towns before heading home.
Optional Extension
Travel through Cologne and visit the stunning Cologne Cathedral before continuing into the heart of the Rhineland. Enjoy a relaxing Rhine River cruise from Rüdesheim to St. Goar, taking in picturesque landscapes and charming riverside towns before heading home.
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in 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 meaningful learning 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
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
Accommodations
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Daily meals with options varying by program
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
Scenes from France & Germany
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Request a Quote
Ready to turn this itinerary into an unforgettable learning experience? Tell us about your school, group and travel plans, and our team will create a tailored quote for your next adventure.