Your Birthday Trip to Paris & The Loire Valley

Paris | Mid-October 2024 | 3 nights

• Le Pavillon de la Reine & Spa

Loire Valley | Late October 2024 | 4 nights

• Les Sources de Cheverny

If you need any assistance while you are traveling, or if you would like to make any changes, reservations or cancellations during your time in France you can contact the following who will be your local contacts during your trip:

DESTINATION

• Local Contact: will be provided | will be provided

Scenset

• Your Curator: will be provided
  
• Your Traveler Relations Rep: will be provided
  
• Scenset Emergency Line: +1 (415) 941-0027

Important: Due to the time difference, for small day-to-day things like touring and dining reservations - or emergencies that need immediate assistance - it will be most efficient for you to use the local contacts as they are in the same time zone as you.

WhatsApp: If you don’t have WhatsApp on your phone, we strongly encourage downloading it for free as it makes contacting our local team easier.

In October, Paris experiences cool autumn weather with temperatures typically ranging from 10°C to 17°C (50°F to 63°F). The city sees occasional rain showers, and the days become shorter, with more cloud cover.

In October, the Loire Valley experiences mild autumn weather, with temperatures usually ranging between 9°C and 16°C (48°F to 61°F).

U.S. passport holders do not need a visa for short stays (less than 90 days within a 180-day period) in France.

These guidelines are for reference only. Scenset holds no responsibility for travel restrictions. Travelers are responsible for ensuring the right documentation to travel.

We have put together this Destination Guide for you, full of unique insights and ways to get excited before you travel, such as:

• Spotify playlists
  
• Movies to watch
  
• Books to read
  
• Dishes to try
  
• Helpful phrases
  
• Packing guide
  
• Tipping guides

Plus more!

• Scenset's Guide to France

Meet your driver in the arrivals area of CDG, after clearing customs. Upon meeting your driver, you will be transferred to your accommodation in Paris.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Arrivals hall
  
• Duration: About an hour
  
• Your Driver: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Check in to your accommodation.

Join a captivating three-hour guided tour through the Marais, a district with a rich history that once marked Paris's poorest area but now stands as a hub of style and sophistication. Explore the neighborhood's transformation into a hotspot of independent boutiques, innovative concept stores, and upscale restaurants beloved by stylish Parisians.

Discover the blend of historical charm and contemporary flair as your guide introduces you to emerging designers and renowned European brands. Experience the dynamic art scene with a visit to one of the world's leading contemporary art galleries.

After your tour, enjoy some free time and make your way back to your hotel at leisure.

• Meeting time: Afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: 3 hours
  
• Your Guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Tonight, dine at Au Bon Accueil.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Address: 14 Rue de Monttessuy, 75007 Paris
  
• Location: 30 minute drive from your hotel 📍Google Map Directions Link. Your hotel front dek can help call a taxi.

To cancel or make any changes to your reservation, please contact the restaurant directly on +331 470 546 11.

Booked by Scenset.

• Superior room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Meet your driver in the morning, and make your way to your Macarons class. Here, you'll meet your cook, Aurélie, for a private baking class in her Parisian apartment.

Macarons are a quintessential French delicacy celebrated worldwide, yet many are unfamiliar with the craft behind these elegant confections. In this immersive session, a professional French chef will reveal the secrets to perfecting macarons, guiding you through her private kitchen workshop. You’ll select three to four macaron varieties to create, participating in every step from crafting ganache and meringue to mastering essential techniques, equipping you to bake flawless macarons at home.

After your class, enjoy some free time and make your way back to your hotel at your leisure.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Drive time: 30 minutes
  
• Tour start time: Morning
  
• Tour duration: 2 hours 30 minutes
  
• Your Cook: Aurélie | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

This afternoon has been left free for you to relax or explore Paris at your own pace.

Immerse yourself in the literary charm of Paris's Left Bank with a captivating three-hour tour. Wander through the historic streets, charming squares, and cozy cafés that echo the presence of legendary writers and thinkers. From Denis Diderot and Charles Baudelaire to Oscar Wilde and Simone de Beauvoir, the Left Bank has been home to many revolutionary and influential minds.

Begin your journey in the iconic Saint-Germain-des-Prés, a hub of intellectual activity where groundbreaking ideas first took flight and continue to thrive. Discover the Odeon area, a treasure trove of renowned publishers, rare manuscripts, and ancient book dealers, and visit Café Procope, a historic beacon of the Enlightenment.

Continue your exploration in the vibrant Saint-Michel district, once a haven for the Beat Generation and the birthplace of the legendary Shakespeare and Co bookstore.

Recommended by Scenset. Not included in the itinerary

One of the best parks near the Saint-Germain-des-Prés area in Paris is the Jardin du Luxembourg. This iconic park, often simply referred to as the Luxembourg Gardens, is situated on the border between Saint-Germain-des-Prés and the Latin Quarter. It's known for its beautiful lawns, tree-lined promenades, and the majestic Luxembourg Palace, which today houses the French Senate.

The park covers about 25 hectares (over 60 acres) and features both French and English garden styles, along with fountains, sculptures (including a model of the Statue of Liberty), and the picturesque Medici Fountain. It's a popular spot for both tourists and locals alike, offering numerous activities and amenities such as tennis courts, puppet shows for children, and plenty of chairs to relax and enjoy the scenset.

The Jardin du Luxembourg is a peaceful retreat in the heart of Paris, perfect for a leisurely stroll, a picnic, or just some time out from the bustling city life. It's definitely a must-visit park when you're in or near the Saint-Germain area.

This is a recommendation only.

Celebrate Sarah's birthday with an unforgettable dining experience at Le Taillevent, where culinary artistry meets timeless elegance. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a sophisticated menu that blends classic French cuisine with contemporary flair, all within an ambiance of refined luxury. Whether savoring each meticulously crafted dish or selecting from the extensive wine list, dinner at Le Taillevent is a celebration of Parisian gastronomy at its finest.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Address: 15 Rue Lamennais 75008 Paris
  
• Contact: +33 1 44 95 15 01
  
• Cancellation policy: You can cancel or modify your booking (subject to availability) free of charge up to 24 hours before your booking. If you cancel or modify after the 24-hour limit, or if you do not show up, you will be charged a cancellation fee.
  
• Location: 35 minute drive from your hotel (depending on traffic)📍Google Map Directions Link

To make any changes to your reservation, please call the restaurant directly on the number above, or access this link to cancel.

Booked by Scenset - paid locally.

• Superior room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Meet your guide and your driver at your hotel to depart for the Musée de l'Orangerie. Immerse yourself in Paris's rich artistic heritage with our curated tour of the Musée d'Orsay and the Musée de l'Orangerie. Your private guide will lead you through the Musée de l'Orangerie to marvel at Monet’s breathtaking Water Lilies, before continuing to the Musée d'Orsay, showcasing its extensive collection of Impressionist masterpieces housed in a stunning Beaux-Arts railway station. This tour offers a deep dive into these iconic museums' treasures, providing fascinating insights and a comprehensive understanding of their significance in the art world.

After your tour, enjoy some free time and make your way back to your hotel at leisure.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Drive time: 30 minutes
  
• Tour start time: Morning
  
• Tour duration: Approximately 3.5 hours
  
• Your guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please contact will be provided

Booked by scenset.

You are on the waitlist for lunch at Parcelles Paris.

• Time: Afternoon
  
• Booked under: An individual
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Address: 13 rue Chapon 75003 Paris
  
• Contact: will be provided

Booked onto waitlist by Scenset. We will let you know if a table comes available.

This afternoon has been left free for you to relax or explore Paris at your own pace.

Paris is a great city for independent exploration, with so many different neighborhoods offering something different - here are some of our favorites:

• Latin Quarter epitomizes Parisian charm with its Seine-side cafes and scholarly vibe from Sorbonne students. Steer clear of the crowded tourist spots near rue de la Harpe to discover the Panthéon, home to the remains of France's intellectual giants, and the medieval wonders of the Musée de Cluny, including its ancient Roman baths. For tranquility, visit the Arènes de Lutèce, a park within a Roman amphitheatre's ruins, and don't miss the vibrant street market on rue Mouffetard.
  
• Belleville-Menilmontant, once a haunt of a famous French singer, is quickly becoming a hotspot for nightlife and art. Rue de Menilmontant's bars, alongside fresh art galleries, signal a vibrant young art scene. Don't miss the scenic Parc de Belleville and Place St Marthe's relaxed, global atmosphere, offering diverse cuisines from Sicilian to Brazilian and vegetarian.

These are recommendations only.

This expansive public greenspace stretches from the base of the Eiffel Tower to the École Militaire. It offers visitors not only spectacular views of the tower itself but also a vast area perfect for picnics, leisurely strolls, and photo opportunities. The park's open lawns and beautiful gardens are a serene escape within the bustling city, providing both tourists and locals with a picturesque setting for relaxation and recreation.

Champ de Mars is integral to the Parisian landscape, hosting various events throughout the year, including national celebrations, concerts, and the Bastille Day fireworks on July 14th. Its central location and iconic vistas make it a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to experience the essence of Paris.

This is a recommendation only.

A few of our favorites are:

• Freddy's: Boasting one of the city's best selections of wine by the glass paired with delicious tapas. This is in your neighborhood.
  
• Early June: An in-the-know wine bar for locals featuring traveling chefs.
  
• Septime La Cave: Located just around the corner from one of the best contemporary French restaurants in Paris, this is hip younger sibling!
  
• Frenchie Bar à Vins: If you want a taste of Gregory Marchand’s cooking without the challenge of scoring a reservation at Frenchie, this sister wine bar is a great option... although it can get a little chaotic, cramped, and loud here!
  
• Breizh Café: (1 Rue del'Odeon) For some of the best crêpes, go to one of the few locations around Paris. Traditionalists love the a complète (ham, cheese, egg), while more adventurous eaters can look to the daily and seasonal specials such as sea scallops and smoked duck breast. Dessert crêpes offer a few Japanese touches like ginger and yuzu alongside classic constructions with apples and ice cream.
  
• Bar Hemingway: A nod to a bygone era when the space at the Ritz Paris served as the watering hole of a certain American writer, with leather armchairs, sepia photos & a honed cocktail menu.
  
• Le Petit Vendôme: If you're looking for a quick and classic franch baguette sandwich, rub elbows with local businessmen on lunch breaks at this colorful and unpretentious bistro whipping up regional classics, sandwiches & daily specials.
  
• Chez Alain Maim Maim: A no-frills sandwich shop offers simple, yet savory bites with upmarket ingredients. Don't be surprised if there's a wait!

Tonight, dine at Automne.

• Time: Evening
  
• Booked under name: will be provided
  
• Number of people: 2
  
• Reservation number: will be provided
  
• Address: Rue Richard Lenoir 11
  
• Cancellation policy: You may cancel or change your reservation (subject to availability) at no cost up to 24 hours before the time of your reservation. If you cancel or make changes after the 24 hours deadline, or are a no-show, the restaurant may charge your card the total guarantee.
  
• Location: 20 minute walk from your hotel

📍Google Map Directions Link

To cancel or make any changes to your reservation, please visit this link or contact the restaurant directly on +33 1 40 09 03 70.

Booked by Scenset - paid locally.

• Superior room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Meet your driver for a transfer to the station, ensuring you arrive effortlessly in time to catch your train.

• Meeting time: Afternoon
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: 15 minutes
  
• Your Driver: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

• A ticket will be provided.
  
• A ticket will be provided.

Catch your high-speed train from Paris Gare d'Austerlitz Station to Blois-Chambord Station with First class seats.

• Journey time: Approximately 2 hours 30 minutes
  
• Departure time: Early afternoon
  
• Arrival time: Mid-afternoon
  
• Train number: will be provided
  
• Class: First class
  
• Seats: Please note that there are no assigned seats in this regional train, but you have '1ère classe' tickets to sit in one of the first-class carriages
  
• REF: will be provided

*Please note that Blois Chambord is not the last stop of your train. We recommend getting ready a few minutes in advance to be at the door with your luggage when the train enters the station.

Booked By Scenset

Your driver will pick you up at the station and take you to your hotel.

• Meeting time: in the afternoon
  
• Duration: about 25 minutes
  
• Your Driver: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Check in to your accommodation.

• Superior Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Begin your gourmet journey at the historic Brédif estate, where you'll indulge in a private tasting of charcuterie, cheese, and five exquisite wines, all focused on local flavors. Renowned for its Vouvray and mellow wines, the estate was revolutionized in the early 20th century by Monsieur Brédif, who pioneered sparkling Vouvray. Today, under the passionate care of an estate owner, the estate’s ancient troglodyte cellars, carved into tufa rock since the 10th century, house rare vintages dating back to 1874.

After your tasting, your chauffeur-guide will take you to a local restaurant for lunch (paid locally).

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Drive time: 1 hour
  
• Tour start time: Late morning
  
• Tour duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
  
• Your chauffeur-guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please contact will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

After lunch, you will head to the city of Tours for a private walking tour of the Old Town. Having successfully preserved much of its historic heritage, Tours is particularly famous for its scenset medieval district – Vieux Tours. The bulk of it is concentrated around three squares: Place du Grand Marché, Place Plumereau and Place de Chateauneuf. A stroll through the Old Town offers many delights, and is best started at Place Plumereau. Lined with wood-framed, stone-gabled townhouses dating back to the 12th-15th centuries and carefully restored in the spirit of the time, this square is known for its exuberant atmosphere from the multitude of cafes, bars and restaurants of every kind. This area enjoys the title of being the “best in France for aperitif.”

After your tour and on the way back to Cheverny, you will make a last stop at Château de Chenonceau for a short visit. Experience the grand architecture and learn about the history of this royal residence, exceptional both for its scenset location on the Cher River and for its destiny in the hands of powerful women of France, which earned it the name of “Castle of the Ladies”.

At the end of the day, your chauffeur-guide will drop you off at your hotel - you'll arrive in the early evening.

• Meeting time: 2pm
  
• Duration: 4 hours
  
• Drive time from Brédif Estate to Tours: 17 minutes
  
• Drive time from Tours to Château de Chenonceau: 40 minutes
  
• Your chauffeur-guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

• Superior Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Meet your chauffeur-guide at your hotel and head to the magnificent Château de Chambord, for a private visit. Originally a hunting lodge, Chambord was transformed by King François I in the 16th century into a symbol of French monarchy and artistic grandeur. Admire the Grand Staircase, designed by Da Vinci, with its ingenious double helix that allows people ascending and descending to pass without crossing paths.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Drive time: About 30 minutes
  
• Your chauffeur-guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please contact will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

For lunch, we suggest savoring gourmet cuisine at the nearby restaurant Relais de Chambord, located 50 meters from Château de Chambord. Lunch will be paid locally.

This is a recommendation only.

Meet your chauffeur-guide and head to Château de Blois, a 45-minute drive away. This unique castle, located within the town of Blois, contrasts with the more remote châteaux of the Loire Valley and offers a fascinating glimpse into French royal history. Enjoy a brief stroll through the city of Blois, known for its rich artistic and historical heritage and its significance as a former royal residence in the 16th century.

• Meeting time: Afternoon
  
• Duration: 3 hours
  
• Drive time: 45 minutes
  
• Your chauffeur-guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Continue your journey with a 20-minute drive to Château de Cheverny. Built in the early 17th century by the Hurault family and inspired by the Palais de Luxembourg in Paris, this castle has remained in the same family for six centuries. Remarkably, it escaped significant damage during the French Revolution thanks to the diplomatic skills of its then-owner.

After your tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel, arriving in the late afternoon.

• Meeting time: 4pm
  
• Duration: 3 hours
  
• Drive time: 20 minutes
  
• Your chauffeur-guide: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

• Superior Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided

Booked by scenset.

Spend the day relaxing at your hotel, or exploring the area at your own pace.

Perhaps unwind with autumn-inspired spa treatments, and savor gourmet meals with seasonal ingredients and local wines at the hotel’s restaurant. Why not stroll through the estate’s gardens, beautifully adorned with fall colors, for a serene and picturesque experience.

This is a recommendation only.

Discover the Loire Valley on two wheels along a newly designed route offering over 900 km of picturesque paths that take you through charming villages and historic monuments along the river. The hotel provides electric-assist bikes for daily rental, allowing you to effortlessly enjoy the stunning landscapes at your own pace.

This is a recommendation only.

• Superior Room
  
• Breakfast included
  
• Confirmation number: will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

Your driver will pick you up and take you to Orleans Station to catch your train to Paris.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: Hotel lobby
  
• Duration: 1 hour
  
• Driver: will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided

Booked by Scenset.

• An individual's ticket is here.
  
• Another individual's ticket is here.

Catch your high-speed train from Paris Gare d'Austerlitz Station to Blois-Chambord Station with First class seats.

• Journey time: Approximately 1 hour
  
• Departure time: Late morning
  
• Arrival time: Early afternoon
  
• Train number: will be provided
  
• Class: First class
  
• Seats: Please note that there are no assigned seats in this regional train, but you have '1ère classe' tickets to sit in one of the first-class carriages
  
• REF: will be provided

Booked By Scenset

Your driver will be waiting for you at the station to take you to the airport in time for your international flight home.

• Meeting time: Morning
  
• Meeting point: At the end of the platform
  
• Duration: 1 hour
  
• Driver: will be provided | will be provided
  
• Contact: If you have any problems, or can't locate your driver, please call will be provided | will be provided

Booked by Scenset.