The Best Art History, Museums, and Cultural Organized Tours in France

Which Tour Companies Offer Art History, Museums, and Cultural Tours?

A number of fantastic tour companies offer art history and museum tours in France. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.

Collette

Collette is a large international travel company offering tours all over the world. Some of their most popular destinations include the U.S., Italy, Great Britain, and France. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many tours focusing on families with children. Many of the tours fall into the mid-range price category. The company's adventures often highlight activities such as wine tasting, island hopping, and camping.

See All Tours from Collette

CroisiEurope River Cruises

Focusing on river cruise tours through France, Germany, Cambodia, and Vietnam, CroisiEurope River Cruises is a well established tour provider. Most participants on their tours are adults and their tours range in length from 2 days to 3 weeks. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. This company's tour offerings are generally priced lower than others, which makes them attractive for budget travelers.

See All Tours from CroisiEurope River Cruises

Contiki

Contiki is a large multi-national travel company which offers tours to destinations around the world. Some of their most popular destinations include Great Britain, Italy, France, and Germany. Younger travelers looking for adventures love this company. This company's tour offerings are generally priced lower than others, which makes them attractive for budget travelers. Travelers usually enjoy the tour activities such as island hopping, snorkelling, wine tasting, surfing, camping, whale watching, diving, rock climbing, white water rafting, and jet boat rides.

See All Tours from Contiki

Lueftner Cruises

Lueftner Cruises offers local river cruise tours through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and others. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 5 days to 2 weeks. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category.

See All Tours from Lueftner Cruises

Art History, Museums, and Cultural Destinations in France

Wondering where art history, museums, and cultural tours visit in France? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.

Paris

Paris is not only the capital city of France, but it is one of Europe's most iconic cities. For many visitors, its a dream destination that is filled with wide boulevards, charming cafes, and world class landmarks. The food is widely recognized as some of the best in the world. The city sits along the River Seine, and a stroll down the river at night is a quintessential Parisian experience.

One of the most world famous landmarks is the Eiffel Tower. The city is also home to the world renowned Louvre, Notre-Dame, and Palais Garnier Opera House. In addition to the many iconic sights, there are beautiful buildings and hidden gems throughout the city.

Versailles

The Palace of Versailles is a former royal residence that has been turned into a public museum showcasing the decadent lives of the historic French royalty. It's also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and it's easily accessible as a day trip from Paris. It has become an iconic symbol of France's grandeur and opulence, renowned for its breathtaking architecture, sumptuous interiors, and sprawling gardens. This magnificent palace was originally built by King Louis XIII in the 17th century but was transformed into a lavish royal residence by his successor, King Louis XIV. With its magnificent Hall of Mirrors, ornate apartments, and impressive galleries showcasing artistic masterpieces, Versailles epitomizes the pinnacle of French Baroque architecture and interior design. The palace's extensive gardens, meticulously landscaped in the French formal style, feature fountains, sculptures, and meticulously manicured lawns, providing a stunning backdrop for leisurely strolls and elegant photos. Today, the Palace of Versailles is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a symbol of France's rich history and cultural heritage, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe who come to marvel at its splendor and immerse themselves in the grandeur of the French monarchy.

The palace is filled with history and impressive items relating to the royal family. Within and near the palace you should make sure you see the Gardens of Versailles, Grand Trianon, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Royal Opera of Versailles.

Calais

Many people overlook this part of France for the more popular southern regions, but those who do visit can enjoy sandy beaches and nice wine and cheese. UK visitors often arrive by ferry and enjoy some shopping as they pass through.

It's a port city with a few good museums and landmarks to see. Check out the Town Hall, Burghers of Calais, La Cité de la Dentelle et de la Mode, and Musée de la Guerre de Calais, as well as the Calais Lighthouse.

Lyon

Lyon is a beautiful city with a long history. It has one of Europe's best old towns, which climbs the hills above the River Saône and is filled with character. There are many traditional restaurants where you can try the local cuisine. The city is also known for its Marionette puppets and there is a museum as well as places to watch a production.

There are many world class museums and historic landmarks in the city including Musée des Beaux Arts, Musée de la Civilisation Gallo-Romaine, and Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière.

More

Other popular destinations for art history, museums, and cultural tours through France include Arras, Le Havre, Macon, Meaux, and Lourdes.

Art History, Museums, and Cultural Tours vs. Independent Travel: Pros and Cons

When choosing between booking an organized tour or planning your own trip, consider the key factors of each travel style.

Organized Tours

Independent Travel

Which is cheaper?

Can you save money by traveling independently instead of joining guided art history and museum tours? It's not a simple yes or no. Tours usually include key expenses such as lodging, transportation, meals, entry fees, guides, and activities, which you'd need to manage and pay for individually on your own trip. To figure out the difference, compare the total tour price with the cost of making your own arrangements. Depending on your choices—like opting for budget hotels or premium dining—the cost of a tour might be higher or lower. Be sure to examine the tour inclusions carefully when comparing.

Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.

More Tour Options

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to France, The Best Wildlife Tours to France, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, The Best Historical Tours in France, The Best 10-Day Tours in France, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in France, The Best 3-Day Tours in France, The Best 2-Week Tours in France, The Best Extended Trip Tours in France, One Month or Longer, The Best River Cruises in France, The Best Bicycle Tours in France, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in France, The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in France, The Best Christmas Market Tours in France, The Best Coach Bus Tours in France, The Best Adventure Tours to France, The Best Eco Tours in France, The Best Train & Rail Tours in France, The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in France, The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in France, The Best Sightseeing Tours in France, The Best Cultural Tours in France, The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in France, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in France, The Best Music Tours in France, The Best Photography Tours in France, The Best Camping Tours in France, The Best Educational Tours in France, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in France, The Best Self Drive Tours in France, The Best Walking Tours in France, The Best Honeymoon Tours in France, The Best Tours Under $1000 in France, The Best Luxury Tours to France, The Best Budget Tours to France, The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, or The Best G Adventures Tours to France for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 3-Day Tours from Strasbourg, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Paris, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lyon, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nice, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bordeaux, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Arles, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Avignon, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Marseille, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Strasbourg, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Blois, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chamonix, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Dijon, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Bastia, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Tours, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chalon sur Saone, The Best 10-Day Tours from Paris, The Best 10-Day Tours from Arles, The Best 10-Day Tours from Nice, The Best 10-Day Tours from Lyon, The Best 10-Day Tours from Chalon sur Saone, The Best 2-Week Tours from Paris, The Best 2-Week Tours from Arles, The Best 2-Week Tours from Nice, The Best 2-Week Tours from Chamonix, The Best 2-Week Tours from Marseille, The Best 2-Week Tours from Bordeaux, or The Best 2-Week Tours from Lyon for more package tour options.