French Flair & Swiss Splendor
Two equally gorgeous countries await to make you instantly fall in love with Europe. Your journey begins in France, and more specifically, Paris, the renowned City of Light. From its iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, to its picturesque neighborhoods, Paris is a sight to behold, probably the most photogenic of all European capitals. From there, you'll travel to Lyon, the food capital of France that will take you on a trip to the country's vast culinary heritage before you head to Geneva, the most cosmopolitan city in Switzerland and the birthplace of watchmaking. Your trip ends in Lucerne, where you can walk along a medieval wooden bridge while gasping at spectacular views at every turn.
One of our team members in France will be available to you leading up to and during your trip to answer any questions and arrange local services. You will receive access to your Guest Page, with its information on the best these two countries offer, including things to see and do and other inside tips from restaurant recommendations to tipping advice. Upon request, we will provide you with an eSIM with data that you can use to reach your local JayWay contact (whom you will meet in person) throughout your trip. In all of our destinations, we offer a variety of memorable 3- to 5-star accommodation options, including boutique hotels and charming B&Bs. With our firsthand experience, we can ensure they are all clean, comfortable, and centrally located, with local ambiance.
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What's Included
Here are all the services provided as part of your complete vacation package. See what every JayWay trip includes.
Please let us know if you'd like to upgrade any transfers or add any additional tours or excursions to your itinerary.
Paris
Lyon
Geneva
Lucerne
package excludes:
- Flights from and to your home country.
- Tips for Tour Guides, Drivers and Local Reps.
- Meals (other than breakfast if included in room rate and meals listed as included in food tours and excursions, unless explicitly stated otherwise).
- Parking fees for your Rental Car (if you are booking one with us) unless otherwise indicated. Some hotels provide free parking facilities.
- Travel Insurance. See the insurance link on our website
A JayWay vacation is more than the sum of its parts. Our team work tirelessly to ensure your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Your trip is personalized to maximize your enjoyment. You're taken care of every step of the way.
A Travel Advisor who speaks your language
We will make sure that all your requirements and interests are taken into account in preparing your itinerary.A totally tailored itinerary for your vacation
Your trip is customized for you by an experienced trip planner and an expert on the region.A choice of hand-picked hotels and excursions
We've personally inspected and tested all the hotels and local tour providers we work with to ensure quality.Detailed pre-trip preparation to make the most of every day
Your destination-based Tour Manager will be in touch by email and phone a month before you arrive to finalize timings.On-trip Concierge Service to smooth out any bumps in the road
Your tour manager is at your service throughout your journey. We'll provide a local SIM so you can stay connected.Personalized Guest Page to make sure you're not missing out
Packed with detailed information and recommendations curated by locals on the best things to do, see and eat.3 Nights in Paris
3 Nights in Paris
3 Nights in Paris
Paris is situated in the northern part of France. The city sprawls over both banks of the Seine River and on two islands: the Îles Saint Louis and the larger Île de la Cité. The historical city center is built around the Seine, and it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. For a glimpse into the oldest part of Paris, take a stroll along the Seine and around the 1st and 4th districts to admire iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris or the Louvre Museum, among others. But leave some space and time for the rest of the city's districts, as each of Paris' 20 arrondissements possesses incredible treasures to discover.
Paris is situated in the northern part of France. The city sprawls over both banks of the Seine River and on two islands: the Îles Saint Louis and the larger Île de la Cité. The historical city center is built around the Seine, and it has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1991. For a glimpse into the oldest part of Paris, take a stroll along the Seine and around the 1st and 4th districts to admire iconic landmarks, such as the Cathedral of Notre Dame de Paris or the Louvre Museum, among others. But leave some space and time for the rest of the city's districts, as each of Paris' 20 arrondissements possesses incredible treasures to discover.
Day 1
Day 1 - Arrival in Paris
Welcome to Paris! We'll arrange for a driver to meet you at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport and drive you to your centrally located accommodation. The journey time to the city center is about one hour.
Welcome to the City of Light
When in Paris, seizing every opportunity to witness the city in the evening is a must. The illuminated skyline, showcasing iconic landmarks and monuments, paints a mesmerizing picture of the City of Light that shouldn't be missed. As the sun sets, the city transforms into a sparkling spectacle, with city highlights casting their radiant glow over the Seine River. Whether you're strolling along its banks or cruising on an all-glass-top boat, the magic of Parisian evenings is an experience to savor.
Day 2
Day 2 - Your First Full Day in Paris
Heart of Paris Group Tour
Get ready to discover the magic of Paris in just three hours. This group walking tour takes you on a journey through the historic heart of Paris, past landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and Sainte Chapelle. You'll pass by the Latin Quarter, enjoy a laid-back cruise along the Seine, and find out the city's history in the most memorable way.
Eiffel Tower Tickets, 2nd Floor with Optional Summit Access
Whether you're visiting Paris for the first time or you already had the pleasure of exploring the most romantic city in Europe, the Eiffel Tower should be on your bucket list. The Eiffel Tower is the landmark of the city, offering breathtaking views over Paris. Climb to the second floor or upgrade your tickets and get to the top of this iconic structure (based on availability).
Day 3
Day 3 - Your Second Full Day in Paris
Champagne Day Trip Small Group Experience
If spending a day in the capital of bubbly wine sounds like the ultimate French thing to do, you are just about right. This full-day trip from Paris will introduce you to the charms of the Champagne region. In the company of your knowledgeable guide and small group, spend an unforgettable day sipping on superb champagne while strolling around the very soil that gives birth to the indisputable queen of bubbly wines.
Day 4
Day 4 - Traveling to Lyon by Train
It's time to say au revoir to Paris today and head to yet another fascinating French city, Lyon. We will arrange your transfer to the train station and provide you with second-class train tickets. If you wish to upgrade to first-class tickets, you can do so for an additional fee. There are several trains from Paris to Lyon daily, and you can choose your preferred departure time. Once on the train, sit back, relax, and enjoy the 2-hour train ride to Lyon.
2 Nights in Lyon
2 Nights in Lyon
2 Nights in Lyon
The third-largest city and second-largest urban area in France, Lyon is situated at the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône. Traveling to Lyon feels like entering a triple-faced city. One has grown along the banks of the Saône and onto the Presqu'île (peninsula) since the time of the Roman Empire, leading to the creation of the largest Renaissance district in France. The second one goes beyond the Rhône to the East and dates from the eighteenth century onwards. The third one, to the South, coincides with modern Lyon's beating heart in the contemporary Confluence district.
The third-largest city and second-largest urban area in France, Lyon is situated at the confluence of the rivers Rhône and Saône. Traveling to Lyon feels like entering a triple-faced city. One has grown along the banks of the Saône and onto the Presqu'île (peninsula) since the time of the Roman Empire, leading to the creation of the largest Renaissance district in France. The second one goes beyond the Rhône to the East and dates from the eighteenth century onwards. The third one, to the South, coincides with modern Lyon's beating heart in the contemporary Confluence district.
Day 4
Day 4 - Arrival in Lyon
When you arrive at Lyon's train station, a driver will meet you to take you to your accommodation.
A Quintessentially Lyonnaise Evening
The best introduction to Lyon is a stroll around the traboules, the city's unique hidden passageways. The first traboules were built in Lyon around the 4th century, and they allowed locals to get safely from their homes to the river regardless of the weather conditions. Nowadays, wandering around Lyon's traboules is a fantastic way to get a glimpse of the city's past. Another unmissable experience on your first night in Lyon is having dinner at a bouchon. These traditional Lyonnaise restaurants serve hearty meals prepared with ingredients from the city's covered market.
Day 5
Day 5 - Your First Full Day in Lyon
Get a Taste of the French Capital of Gastronomy
Today, you are taking a gastronomic odyssey in Lyon. During this group tour, your passionate local guide will lead you through the Old Town, alternating between unique locations and tasting breaks. You will explore the traboules (hidden passageways) and the district's most secret places while sampling Lyon's iconic gastronomic products. You will visit local artisans who will share their passion, present their products, and teach you the best ways to taste them. You can expect over five stops, tasting cheeses, regional cold cuts, artisanal ice cream or chocolate, various drinks, and wine.
Exploring Lyon's Surroundings
Lyon may be a striking place to explore in its own right, but the city's surroundings are also worth a visit. One of the best day trips from Lyon is a tour across the stunning Beaujolais region for an unforgettable day filled with exquisite wine, impressive castles, and quaint medieval villages. Other places not to miss near Lyon are Perouges, which is listed as one of the most beautiful villages in France, and Annecy, the so-called Venice of the Alps.
Beaujolais Private Day Trip
This Beaujolais tour starts with a morning visit to Blacé, where a local wine producer will guide you through their vineyards. Explore a quaint village and enjoy a wine tasting in a 12th-century cave within a family-run castle. After lunch, opt for further exploration, including a visit to Dominique's vineyard-surrounded house. Conclude the day with a scenic drive through the southern golden stone region to Oingt, a medieval gem, before returning to Lyon.
Perouges and Annecy Private Tour
Day 6
Day 6 - Traveling to Geneva by Private Transfer
Our driver will pick you up from your accommodation in Lyon and take you directly to Geneva. Duration of the journey is 1 hour and 45 minutes.
2 Nights in Geneva
2 Nights in Geneva
2 Nights in Geneva
Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.
Switzerland's second city and main French-speaking metropolis, this proud "Protestant Rome" was once John Calvin's capital, but is now famous as the eminently livable "Capital of Peace." A cosmopolitan center of global diplomacy from the Red Cross to much of the UN, Geneva is the scenic spot where the Rhone leaves Lake Geneva. The watchmaker's Mecca, Geneva offers impressive shopping and fine dining, but one of the best activities is free: walking through the Old Town and by the lake. Most of the city is reminiscent of France (which nearly surrounds it) although the more bohemian Carouge district draws plenty of locals thanks to its Mediterranean atmosphere. An hour's drive away, Mont Blanc (the Alps' highest peak) is easy to spot.
Day 6
Day 6 - Arrival in Geneva
Your driver will take you to your accommodations in Geneva.
Lakeside Allure
Just arrived in Geneva? Start your adventure by heading to the lake! The lakeside bars are perfect for sipping colorful cocktails, enjoying a glass of bubbly, or simply relaxing with a refreshing drink as you plan your exploration of this beautiful city. Don’t miss the iconic floating Bateau Lavoir, a charming spot reminiscent of the 19th-century "washing boats" where women once did their laundry.
Day 7
Day 7 - Your First Full Day in Geneva
Explore the Protestant Rome
Horological Mecca
Back in the 16th century, the people of Geneva found an exception from the Calvinist rule of simplicity in every matter of life. Not willing to part with all of their adornments, they decided to buy watches. Jewelers retrained as watchmakers to meet the new demand. Thus, the expertise and traditions behind Geneva's artisanal watches go back a good five hundred years. If you're fond of watches, Geneva's the place to buy one. If you already have the watch of your dreams, Geneva's artisans will be happy to customize it for you.
Day 8
Day 8 - Traveling to Lucerne by Train
You can upgrade your transfer
Lucerne by Private Transfer
Upgrade for an additional cost
3 Nights in Lucerne
3 Nights in Lucerne
3 Nights in Lucerne
If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.
If you only have time for one spot in central Switzerland, make it Lucerne. This charming lakeside town offers a memorable mountain panorama. The town's standout landmark is the 12th century Chapel Bridge (Europe's oldest covered bridge), which runs past the unique octagonal Water Tower. Visitors also tend to make a beeline for the Lion Monument, carved into a cliff, which commemorates the Swiss Guards who sacrificed their lives for the royal family during the French Revolution. Make sure to stop by the lesser-known covered Spreuer Bridge, with its Danse Macabre plaques. If you're fond of classical music, you're more than in luck, as the city offers frequent performances.
Day 8
Day 8 - Arrival in Lucerne
Lucerne, Love, and Luxury
Lucerne's breathtaking beauty truly sets it apart as one of the world’s most enchanting cities. After checking into your accommodations, immerse yourself in its charm by taking a leisurely walk through the Old Town and across the picturesque Chapel Bridge. If you're up for a bit more adventure, climb the Musegg Wall for stunning views of the city and its scenic surroundings. To cap off your day, savor an aperitif or enjoy a traditional fondue, a local specialty. For an exceptional dining experience, consider the Schiff or Fondue House Du Pont restaurants.
Day 9
Day 9 - Your First Full Day in Lucerne
Swiss Variety
Day 10
Day 10 - Your Second Full Day in Lucerne
Bernese Oberland Pick and Mix Private Tour
Day 11
Day 11 - Departure Day
Glowing Reviews from Our Guests
Average of our Guest's Ratings of tour packages including these destinations
JayWay was so helpful in finding unique excursions and connecting us with quality guides and excellent hotels. Knowing we had a local contact was very reassuring.
– Christine & Ron, Delaware
Visited : France
Itinerary : Paris, Lyon, Nice
Rating :
We have taken three trips so far with JayWay, which says it all but I'll continue anyway. On this trip, our US contact, Art, provided us with excellent recommendations for all of our wishes. If you want to travel stress-free, with amazing support, and the best possible options made available to you, use JayWay Travel! We love them!
– Nancy & Babette, California
Visited : Switzerland, Italy
Itinerary : Geneva, Lucerne, Como, Milan
Rating :
JayWay Travel is the way to go!! Perfect balance between Independent Travel and organized tours. Just the way we wanted it!
– Jeanne & Kathleen, Arizona
Visited : France
Itinerary : Paris, Marseille, Nice, Lyon, Paris
Rating :