Tour de France VIP Access 2026: The French Alps Classic

Overview

Experience the Tour de France like an insider—riding iconic routes, accessing exclusive areas, and celebrating with the pros—all at a pace that lets you savor every moment. This adventure strikes the perfect balance between challenge and enjoyment, with rides designed to match your ability. You'll start in Annecy, where lakeside cycling leads to rewarding climbs like Col de la Forclaz. Then you’ll head to the Alpe d’Huez region to ride Col de la Sarenne—making its Tour de France debut in Stage 20—before tackling the main event: riding the mountain’s famous 21 hairpins on race day ahead of Stage 19, with the road closed to traffic and thousands of fans cheering you on. Multiple route options throughout the tour mean you control the intensity, choosing distances and elevations that suit your comfort level. Beyond the riding, you'll enjoy exclusive VIP access: tour the EF Pro Cycling Team bus at the Stage 17 Starting Village in Chambéry, ride across the finish line and take podium photos before Stage 19 atop Alpe d'Huez, and witness the finale from premium seating on the Champs-Élysées. Cap it all off by celebrating with the EF Pro Cycling team at their exclusive invite-only post-race party in Paris. This is your chance to experience cycling’s greatest race, designed for riders who want an authentic Tour de France experience without the intense mileage of the hardest alpine stages. 8 nights in handpicked hotels, Private local transfers, Train from Grenoble to Paris, Support van for bike rides, 8 breakfasts, 6 dinners with beer or wine, 1 pastry tasting & 1 French delicacies tasting, Behind-the-scenes Tour de France access in partnership with Sports Tours International, 2 expert European Tour Directors/bike guides, Choice between performance road bike and e-touring bike (Road racing bike and e-road bike available for a fee), EF Adventures cycling jersey, helmet, GPS tracking device, and other biking equipment, 5 days of guided bike rides through the French Alps, Select guided sightseeing tours. Cycle a scenic loop around Lake Annecy with a climb to Col de la Forclaz, Experience the electric atmosphere of the Stage 17 Starting Village in Chambéry, Ride a section of Col de la Sarenne two days before the pros, Tackle Alpe d’Huez’s 21 switchbacks ahead of Stage 19, ride across the finish line, and take photos on the official podium, Get insider team access during an exclusive meet & greet with EF Pro Cycling staff, Witness history at the Tour de France’s finale on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, Celebrate in style at the EF Pro Cycling team VIP Tour de France party. Day 1: Fly to Geneva. Your Tour de France adventure begins! Board your overnight flight to Switzerland—you'll cross into France almost immediately, heading straight to Annecy in the French Alps where you'll be riding legendary routes and witnessing cycling's most prestigious race. Day 2: Arrival in Geneva & transfer to Annecy. Included meal: Welcome dinner. After landing in Geneva, you’ll journey south into the French Alps to Annecy, often called the “Venice of the Alps” for its winding canals and crystal-clear waterways. This medieval town, nestled between mountains and the shores of Lake Annecy (Europe’s cleanest lake), has been charming visitors since the Middle Ages with its pastel-colored Old Town and flower-lined bridges. Beyond its fairy-tale appearance, Annecy sits at the gateway to some of France’s most spectacular cycling terrain—the perfect launchpad for your alpine adventure. Over the next few days, you’ll build your legs and acclimatize to the mountains before joining the Tour de France action in Chambéry. Day 3: Lake Annecy loop bike ride, Annecy walking tour, and optional sunset boat cruise. Included meals: Breakfast, Tasting. The French Alps reveal themselves best from a bike, and today’s loop around Lake Annecy proves exactly why. You’ll experience one of the most beautiful lakeside rides in all of Europe, with the Bauges and Bornes massifs rising dramatically on all sides. The route hugs the shoreline through charming villages like Talloires and Menthon-Saint-Bernard, where medieval castles peek through the trees. The eastern shore brings a gentle climb with breathtaking lake vistas before you return to Annecy. After your ride, you’ll explore Annecy’s Old Town on foot, stopping for a French pastry tasting at a local bakery, crossing the romantic Pont des Amours (Lover’s Bridge), and strolling through the peaceful Jardins de l’Europe (Gardens of Europe). Tonight, consider joining the optional sunset boat cruise on Lake Annecy to see the landscape from a completely different perspective. Day 4: Col de la Forclaz bike ride. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner. You’ll spend another day exploring the terrain around Lake Annecy and continuing to prepare for the Tour de France ahead, but today’s focus shifts from the lakeshore to the surrounding mountains. The _cols_ (mountain passes) in the Haute-Savoie region have made it a favorite training ground for professional cyclists, offering everything from technical climbs to rolling pastoral landscapes. You'll begin along the lakeshore before the road tilts upward toward Col de la Forclaz, a climb that has featured in multiple Tour de France races and remains a local proving ground for aspiring pros. At the summit, you’ll pause for one of the most celebrated vistas in the French Alps—a sweeping view over Lake Annecy. After a fast descent, those opting for the shortest route will finish in Duingt. Those who wish to push farther can either continue along the lakeshore back to Annecy or add the gentler climb of Col de Leschaux before returning to your hotel. Day 5: Optional sunrise bike ride, Stage 17 Starting Village Hospitality, and travel to Alpe d’Huez region. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Early risers can join an optional sunrise ride around Lake Annecy, departing before dawn to experience the lake’s famous beauty in the soft morning light. The route traces the shoreline through quiet lakeside hamlets before climbing gently above the water for panoramic views, then descending back into Annecy as the city stirs to life. After breakfast, you’ll head to Chambéry for exclusive access to the Stage 17 Starting Village. Your VIP pass gives you access to the village near the signature podium and the starting line, as well as to the riders’ paddock—the “pit lane" for cyclists where teams prepare and strategize. As an EF Adventures traveler, you’ll also get an exclusive tour of the EF Pro Cycling Team bus, an experience unavailable to other Starting Village visitors and your direct connection to the athletes competing in the race. After watching the start of the race on a big screen from the Starting Village, you’ll travel to your hotel in the Alpe d’Huez region. This mountain resort has achieved legendary status in cycling thanks to its 21 numbered switchbacks that have decided countless Tour de France stages since 1952. Day 6: Col de la Sarenne bike ride and Alpe d’Huez cable car. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner. Today you’ll ride Col de la Sarenne—a route that will make its Tour de France debut in Stage 20 of the 2026 race. You’re riding this climb before the pros do, experiencing the mountain in its raw, untouched state. Rolling out from Alpe d’Huez, the road narrows and winds, hugging the mountainside as it rises above the Sarenne Gorge. You’ll pass through the hamlet of Huez before the ascent opens up to alpine meadows dotted with wildflowers and rocky outcrops. At the summit—nearly 6,600 feet—the views are expansive: the jagged Écrins massif dominates the southern horizon while the valley drops away to the north with Lac du Chambon shimmering far below. From here, the route traces a high balcony road before descending back toward Alpe d’Huez. Those opting for the longer ride will continue with a second climb toward Lac Besson, a high-altitude lake surrounded by alpine meadows and larch forests. After your ride, you’ll ascend even higher via cable car to the summit of Alpe d’Huez at nearly 11,000 feet, where panoramic views stretch all the way to Mont Blanc on clear days. Day 7: Stage 19 Alpe d’Huez climb, Finish-Line Hospitality, and meet & greet with EF Pro Cycling team staff. Included meals: Breakfast, Dinner. This is the day you’ve been waiting for. Today you’ll get exclusive access to ride up Alpe d’Huez ahead of Stage 19—not just any climb, but one of the most famous ascents in all of cycling. The 21 numbered switchbacks have become synonymous with the Tour de France itself, each hairpin turn counting down to the summit where champions are crowned and careers are defined. What makes today special is the atmosphere. The mountain is closed to vehicle traffic and transformed into a festival of cycling, with fans from around the world lining every meter of the road. You’ll be cheered on at every turn, riding through painted names and banners while the anticipation builds for the pros who will follow hours later. When you cross the actual Stage 19 finish line, you’ll take victory photos on the official Tour de France podium—a moment few outside the peloton ever experience. Next, you’ll head to the Alpe d’Huez Grandstand for the VIP Finish-Line Hospitality. This exclusive vantage point offers prime viewing of the stage finish, along with drinks, snacks, and big-screen coverage of the action unfolding on the mountain. Later, you’ll gather with your group for your final dinner in the Alpe d’Huez region—with a special twist. During the meal, you’ll get an insider's look at professional cycling during a meet & greet with EF Pro Cycling team staff. Day 8: Travel to Paris. Included meal: Breakfast. After several days of alpine riding, today offers a welcome chance to rest your legs while the scenery shifts from mountain peaks to urban landmarks. Your train journey from Grenoble to Paris takes you across France’s changing landscapes—rolling hills give way to farmland, then gradually to the outskirts of the capital. Once you arrive at Paris Gare de Lyon, you’ll head to your hotel and have the rest of the day to explore the city at your own pace or simply relax and save your energy for tomorrow’s grand finale on the Champs-Élysées. Day 9: Montmartre walking tour, Stage 21 viewing on the Champs-Élysées, and EF Pro Cycling team party. Included meals: Breakfast, Tasting, Dinner. Today marks the culmination of both your time in France and the Tour de France. In the morning, you’ll discover the artistic soul of Paris in Montmartre, a hilltop neighborhood that’s been a haven for artists for generations. You’ll then witness one of cycling’s most iconic spectacles—the Tour’s final stage on the Champs-Élysées. Since 1975, this grand finale has transformed Paris’s most famous avenue into cycling’s most prestigious finish line. From your VIP position, you’ll witness cycling history unfold as the peloton races past eight times before the final sprint and podium ceremony. And afterwards, as the sun sets over Paris, you’ll join the EF Pro Cycling team to celebrate this magnificent sporting event in style at an exclusive party. Day 10: Fly home. Included meal: Breakfast (excluding early morning departures). After witnessing cycling history from the French Alps to Paris, it’s time to bid France _au revoir_. Take one last look at the city before your 30–45-minute transfer to the Paris airport for your international flight home. You’ll leave with memories of legendary climbs, exclusive Tour de France moments, and the unforgettable experience of riding through some of France’s most stunning landscapes. Paris extension: Extend your French adventure with two more nights in the City of Light. Paris, the capital of France and one of the world’s most beloved cities, is a global center for art, fashion, gastronomy, and culture. Its 19th-century cityscape is crisscrossed by wide boulevards and the River Seine, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Gothic Notre-Dame cathedral punctuating the horizon. Your extended stay includes a guided visit to the legendary Louvre Museum, an opportunity to ride through Paris’s grand boulevards and historic quarters on a monuments bike tour, and a chance to explore the opulent Palace of Versailles. Beyond the major attractions, Paris invites you to lose yourself in charming neighborhoods like Le Marais, with its chic boutiques and quaint patisseries, or indulge in the city’s renowned culinary scene, from corner cafés to Michelin-starred restaurants. Day 10: The Louvre & optional Paris monuments bike tour. Included meal: Breakfast. Dive deeper into Parisian culture with a day dedicated to art and more biking—if you’re up for it. Your morning brings you to the Louvre, one of the world’s greatest cultural treasures, where centuries of human creativity and history converge under a striking glass pyramid. After being immersed in art and history, your afternoon offers the choice between an optional city bike tour of Paris’s most famous monuments or free time in Paris. Day 11: Optional Versailles Palace & Gardens excursion or free time in Paris. Included meal: Breakfast. Spend today either visiting the magnificent Château de Versailles or exploring more of Paris on your own. From the glittering Hall of Mirrors to the stunning formal gardens stretching toward the horizon, Versailles offers an unforgettable glimpse into one of the world’s most famous palaces. If you prefer to stay in the city, Paris offers endless possibilities for your free day, from climbing the Eiffel Tower to visiting the Musée d’Orsay to strolling along the Seine. Day 12: Fly home. Your French adventure _really_ comes to an end today. After you squeeze your last-minute souvenirs into your suitcase, you'll transfer 30–45 minutes to the Paris airport for your international flight home. From boutique hotels to 5-star luxury retreats, our accommodations are curated with the expert eye and attention to detail that come from 60 years of travel experience, always prioritizing authenticity. We select high-quality properties that balance comfort, location, sustainability, and local charm. From bustling city centers to serene countryside and picturesque small towns, each hotel is chosen to complement your adventure’s unique style. While the specific accommodations may vary based on your travel dates, you can always count on staying at fantastic properties that meet our standards for quality and character. Enhance your experience with hand-picked optional excursions—designed to add adventure, culture, and unforgettable moments to your journey. We've partnered with EF Pro Cycling and Cannondale to offer four exceptional Cannondale bikes for you to choose from. You'll be able to select your preferred bike in your online account after you book. Round-trip flights are one more thing we handle to make your journey as smooth as possible. Our team of travel experts will find the best flight itinerary for you at a competitive rate, thanks to our partnerships with top airlines. Add our airfare and you’ll get: Round-trip flight for your tour, Airport transfers at your destination, A great price locked in today, 24/7 support from our dedicated service team, Options for requesting an upgrade, Flexible rebooking options if your tour itinerary changes. Passport, visa & entry requirements: In order to enter France, U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport with an expiration date extending at least six months beyond the date of reentry. We recommend having at least one blank passport page for entry stamps. Beginning in late 2026, Passport holders from visa-exempt countries like the U.S. and Canada will need to register for an ETIAS travel authorization to enter certain European countries. Even if you’ve previously traveled to any of these 30 countries without a visa, you’ll need to get ETIAS authorization to visit them again. If you’re traveling to multiple countries with this requirement, you’ll only need to complete the form once. All EF Adventures travelers are responsible for obtaining their own ETIAS travel authorization before departure. For more details, please visit our Help Center. If you are not a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you must contact each country’s consulate for your specific entry requirements. Arrival & departure information: Round-trip flights booked through EF arrive in Geneva and depart from Paris. Transfers to and from the airport at the beginning and end of the tour are included for travelers who purchased their flights through EF Adventures. If you book your own flights, airport transfers may be available for a fee upon request. When you arrive in Geneva, an EF Adventures representative will be waiting for you in the arrivals hall with an EF Adventures sign or a sign with your name(s). If you don’t see a representative immediately, please be patient and stay in the arrivals area. They may be assisting another traveler who has also just arrived and will be back shortly. Physical activity level & mobility: This tour is rated as Intermediate, which means you thrive on a good challenge and aren’t afraid to break a sweat in the saddle. This level features longer rides with varied terrain that will get your pulse racing. You’re comfortable with sustained climbs and some winding descents, excited by the sense of accomplishment they bring. This tour is great for: Biking enthusiasts, Those who want to raise their heart rate. What to expect: Daily mileage: 11–43 miles, Daily elevation gain: Up to 4,131 ft, Typical terrain: Rolling terrain with occasional sustained climbs and faster downhills. Rides are often longer with a more intense pace. Tour pacing: This is a steady-paced tour. The pace of a tour itinerary considers how often you’ll switch hotels, the amount of planned daily activities, and how you’ll get from place to place. You can expect: Two 3-night stays and one 2-night stay, Most days are full of included activities (more if you add excursions), however most evenings are free, Most transportation by mini-vans and taxis. Climate considerations: The French Alps enjoy a mountain climate with cool to warm summers. From mid-July to early August (when the Tour de France takes place), expect daytime temperatures ranging from 65°F to 80°F in the valleys, though temperatures at higher elevations can be 15-20°F cooler. Around Lake Annecy, temperatures tend to be milder thanks to the moderating influence of the water, typically between 70°F and 80°F during summer months. Evenings cool down significantly, especially at higher elevations around Alpe d’Huez, so pack warm layers including a jacket, long-sleeve jersey, and gloves for early morning rides and post-ride relaxation. Sun exposure is intense at altitude, especially during long climbs. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and breathable sun-protective clothing are essential. Paris in late July typically sees temperatures between 65°F and 80°F, with warm days perfect for exploring the city. Pack layers for cooler evenings. Please be aware that you will be reaching altitudes up to 6,600 feet above sea level at the Col de la Sarenne summit. While most travelers experience no issues at this elevation, those with heart conditions or respiratory concerns should consult their doctor before the tour. Physical activity & tour pace extra info: EF Adventures and the Tour Directors who accompany your group are unable to provide special mobility or luggage handling assistance to travelers on tour. The responsibility of the Tour Directors is to ensure the group enjoys a smooth and informative journey, and they can’t be relied on to provide individualized assistance to any one traveler. This tour moves at a reasonable pace to avoid missing scheduled stops. The rest of the group cannot miss any scheduled activities because of the needs of an individual. If you have physical activity concerns or tour pace questions, please visit our Help Center or give us call at 617-619-1679. We’re here to help! Transportation on tour: This tour includes various modes of transportation, including mini-vans, taxis, train, and metro. Train ride from Grenoble to Paris is included. On-tour adventure equipment: Equipment for all bike rides will be included. For bikes, you’ll have your choice between the included performance road bike and e-touring bike, or you can upgrade to a road racing biking or e-road bike for an additional cost: Performance road bike: for those who crave speed and efficiency on paved roads, the Synapse Carbon offers race-level performance with all-day comfort. This lightweight, versatile bike is perfect for tackling long distances throughout your biking tour—from flat stretches to challenging climbs. E-Touring bike: For a more relaxed and comfortable riding experience, opt for the Tesoro Neo X2 StepThru. This electric touring bike features a step-through frame, wide tires, and a powerful motor, making it perfect if you prioritize comfort and stability as you explore new destinations. Road racing bike: elevate your cycling tour experience with a racing bike previously ridden by an EF Pro Cycling team member. The Supersix EVO Hi-MOD is incredibly light, fast, and aerodynamic, providing an exceptional riding experience for avid cyclists. _Note: there is an extra cost for the road racing bike._ E-Road bike: if you want a little extra assistance on hills or longer rides, the Synapse Neo is your ideal companion. This electric road bike combines the speed and efficiency of a road bike with the added boost of pedal assistance, ensuring you can fully enjoy your adventure without overexerting yourself. _Note: there is an extra cost for the e-road bike._ We also include: Cycling jersey: sizing is collected before departure — your EF Adventures jersey will be waiting at the Welcome Dinner. Helmets: Helmets are provided and are required for all bike rides. GPS Devices: GPS devices are provided to help guide you through the routes and track your progress. 2 reusable water bottles. Bike bags: These bags can attach to your bike and allow you to store some of your personal belongings during rides. Support van: A support van will accompany the group on all bike rides. The van carries water, snacks, and basic bike maintenance equipment. Baggage allowance & expectations: Please note that our travelers are limited to one checked bag and one personal item each due to storage limitations on mini-vans and taxis. Some airlines may impose additional charges if you exceed baggage size and weight restrictions. Be advised that you’re responsible for any baggage fees incurred. Contact your airline(s) for the baggage size and weight restrictions on your flights. Make sure you label your baggage and keep valuables, medication, and documents in your carry-on bag. Travelers must be able to manage their luggage throughout tour; porters aren’t guaranteed at hotels or airports. Clothing & packing tips: Remember to bring clothes you’ll feel comfortable cycling in for several hours a day. Quick-drying, moisture-wicking materials are best. Here are some suggestions for what to pack: On the bike: Cycling shorts and/or bibs (we recommend 2-3 in total), Cycling jerseys (your EF Adventures jersey included — we recommend 2–3 in total), Long-sleeve cycling jersey or thermal base layer, Cycling jacket or windproof vest for wind protection, Bike shoes (with clips if applicable), Fingerless cycling gloves, Warm cycling gloves for cold/wet conditions, Buff or neck warmer for wind protection, Sports sunglasses, ID, credit card, phone, Snacks - bars or gels, Bike water bottles (provided). In your day bag (a small day pack to leave in the van while riding): Lightweight, packable rain jacket, Lightweight jacket or sweatshirt, Arm and leg warmers, Walking shoes/sneakers/sandals, Change of clothes (non-cycling), Sunscreen, Water & snacks, Medications for the day. Off the bike: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants for sun protection, A few casual outfits for evenings and any downtime at the hotels, A swimsuit, as there are opportunities to swim at hotel pools, Dressier attire for Welcome/Farewell Dinners and in case you plan to visit a high-end restaurant or attend a special performance, Sleepwear and toiletries, Insect repellent to ward off mosquitoes and other bugs, A refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the tour (and cut down on single use plastic waste), A universal adapter, as well as a voltage converter if you plan on using your own hairdryer or other device without a built-in converter, Any personal medications, including motion sickness remedies for boat rides, Your medical insurance card, in case of emergencies (pack this in your carry-on). Hotels on tour: EF Adventures handpicks every hotel you’ll stay at, striking a balance between comfort, location, sustainability, and local charm. Specific properties will vary based on your departure date, but are typically three-to-five-star hotels; always include private bathrooms; and usually have in-room safes for valuables. Additionally, your hotels will have Wi-Fi, but access may be limited to common areas. There may also not be elevators. Unfortunately, we can’t guarantee that your accommodations will have laundry services or facilities. However, there will be one opportunity during the tour for complimentary laundering of cycling gear only. We recommend checking directly with your hotels once they’ve been confirmed, about 30 days prior to departure. Some hotels on this tour are situated on narrow streets; as such, our mini-vans can’t drop you off right out front. In these instances, you’ll have to walk your luggage to the property, no more than a few blocks. Please be advised that the strength of the air conditioning in European hotels/buildings is often not as strong or as cool as what you might be used to in the U.S. or Canada. France operates on the European standard 230 volts and uses Type C (two round pins) or Type E (two round pins with grounding) plugs. Optional excursions: Excursions are available for purchase prior to departure, and most excursions will be available for purchase while you are on tour directly through your mobile app. We recommend purchasing excursions at least 3 days prior to your tour departure. Please note some excursions have advance booking deadlines. Check your tour itinerary for more information to ensure you don’t miss the deadline to add them. Optional excursions may be canceled on tour due to reasons like low enrollment, weather or unexpected closures. If an excursion you signed up for is canceled, you will be refunded the full cost of the excursion. Please note it may take up to 60 days for your refund to be processed. Your Tour Directors may offer their own optional excursions which can only be purchased on tour via cash (in local currency). Health: At least 60 days prior to departure, check with your doctor or healthcare provider for the latest updates and entry requirements, or visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at cdc.gov. If you have dietary restrictions and/or food allergies please notify EF Adventures at least 30 days prior to your departure by logging in to your account and updating your traveler info. To update this information closer to your departure date, please contact our Customer Experience Team. If you have medication that you take daily, be sure you have enough for each day of the tour and any possible delays encountered. Take proper care with sun exposure, as the sun can be especially strong in some of the regions on this tour. There are inherent risks associated with adventure activities such as biking, particularly for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Discuss your planned activities with your doctor or healthcare provider for the best advice on participation. Even healthy travelers may sometimes experience altitude sickness, a temporary condition featuring symptoms of headache, fatigue, nausea, and light-headedness. Until your body acclimates to the higher altitudes, we suggest that you drink plenty of fluids and limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol. Meals & cuisine: This tour includes six dinners. They may be set menus, à la carte, buffets, or family-style meals, depending on the location. Dinners also may include beer, wine, juice, soft drinks, as well as water, coffee, and tea. Breakfast each morning is also included at the hotel and is typically buffet style with hot and cold options. In the Haute-Savoie region around Annecy and the French Alps, you’ll discover hearty mountain cuisine influenced by neighboring Switzerland and Italy. Local specialties include _tartiflette_ (potatoes baked with Reblochon cheese and bacon), _raclette_ , _fondue savoyarde_ , and _diots_ (Savoyard sausages). The region is famous for its Alpine cheeses, particularly Reblochon, Beaufort, and Tomme de Savoie. Fresh lake fish from Lake Annecy, like perch and arctic char, appear on many menus alongside charcuterie and locally cured meats. Paris offers a world of culinary possibilities, from classic bistros serving _steak frites_ and _coq au vin_ to corner _boulangeries_ filled with fresh croissants and _pain au chocolat_. The city’s café culture is legendary—perfect for people-watching over an espresso or glass of wine. Tipping: Tips for meals, drivers, porterage (if applicable), and sightseeing guides are included in the price of your tour. At the conclusion of your tour, it is customary to offer your Tour Directors a gratuity in local currency. Please keep current exchange rates in mind. We recommend tipping $30-$40 USD per person per day (to be given to the lead Tour Director, who will divide it up). On a 10-day tour, we recommend tipping a total of $300–$400. Tips can only be paid in cash. Currency: You will use the euro on tour. Better rates of exchange are usually available overseas, although it’s worth ordering some currency from your local bank to use when you first arrive. We strongly advise that you take debit and credit cards, which can be used to withdraw cash at local banks as needed. You can use most cards at ATMs on the international networks Cirrus and Plus, but make sure to check with your home bank about withdrawal fees. International banks and businesses primarily accept debit and credit cards that work with the EMV chip system. If you don’t already have at least one card with a chip in it, we strongly recommend requesting one from your bank prior to your tour. Plan ahead and bring cash to tip your Tour Directors. Wi-Fi, data & our mobile app: To help you feel prepared before traveling on tour, we strongly recommend downloading the EF Adventures mobile app. It’s free and provides information about important deadlines and entry requirements, as well as your detailed itinerary, packing tips, and more. You can also connect with fellow travelers through the app’s chat feature. Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, though some charges may apply. There is no Wi-Fi on any of the mini-vans or taxis. Please contact your mobile service provider for information on roaming charges. Tour Director: Your tour will be led by two expert European Tour Directors who are also experienced cycling guides. They have intimate knowledge of the region’s history, culture, and geography, as well as the specific routes you’ll be riding. Your Tour Directors will provide both on-the-bike and off-the-bike support, including: Leading and supporting the group during daily rides, Providing detailed route briefings and overviews of local history and culture, Coordinating logistics and arranging meals, Offering basic bike maintenance and riding tips, Ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all travelers. As experienced cyclists themselves, your Tour Directors will ride with the group and are trained in first aid and bike safety procedures. On tour support: One of the benefits of traveling with EF Adventures is our on tour emergency support team. Our extensive network of offices around the world, and our integration of ISO 31000: Risk Management Guidelines, help our dedicated 24/7 Emergency Service teams anticipate and address on-tour challenges in a flexible and iterative way. This team supports travelers and Tour Directors using a combination of extensive training, simulations, incident response planning, and decades of experience to help manage emergencies if they arise, ranging from personal health concerns or injuries to major world events. As needed, On Tour Support can facilitate additional support for travelers on tour, arrange assistance from outside specialists, and liaise with local and international authorities to help solve on-the-ground issues. In addition, the team is dedicated to supporting and facilitating communication between travelers and families in the event of an emergency while on the road or at home. Time zones: France is 1 hour ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) and 6 hours ahead of Eastern Time (ET). When it’s noon in New York, it’s 6pm on tour. Responsible Travel: When you travel with EF Adventures, you’ll make a positive impact on the places you visit and the people and animals you meet along the way. That’s because our three core Responsible Travel commitments—protecting the environment, supporting local communities, and promoting animal welfare—are at the heart of every tour we offer. Travel, when done responsibly, can have an enormous socioeconomic impact on communities. To maximize your impact, eat at locally owned restaurants and shop at small businesses. Ask your Tour Directors to point out restaurants they recommend. Prepare for your trip: Be aware of monetary norms such as tipping and negotiating in a market; learn about the destination’s forms of etiquette; and take some time to learn a few words in the local language. When interacting with locals, make sure to ask people for permission before you take their picture, and approach cultural differences with empathy and an open mind. EF Adventures encourages travelers to limit their waste while on the road, especially single-use plastics. You can cut back on generating plastic waste by packing your own toiletries, using electronic documents, and bringing a reusable water bottle and shopping bag. If you need to use plastics or paper, please recycle. When visiting national parks, reserves, or other protected areas, please do not remove anything from the natural environment or leave any litter. Carry out what you carried in. When you come across wild animals on tour, take the philosophies of World Animal Protection to heart: Don’t touch or feed them, and maintain a respectful distance. The animals you encounter on your trip should be able to exhibit natural forms of behavior. Furthermore, avoid buying exploitative animal products, like crafts made from animal parts or products tested on animals. If you feel we aren’t meeting any of these commitments, please let us know.

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