Cruise along the picturesque River Seine to the Normandy Coast discovering the history of the D-Day landings and iconic towns made famous by impressionist artists.
From Paris cruise through the Lower Seine Valley to Les Andeleys, dominated by the fascinating Chateau Gaillard, and on to the medieval city of Rouen where Joan of Arc was burned for her beliefs. Visit Bayeux, home to the famous tapestry which tells the tale of William of Normandy's invasion of England in 1066 and learn about the history of the D-Day landings in 1944 at Gold Beach on the Normandy Coast.
Explore the pretty harbour town of Honfleur and visit the famous home and gardens of artist Claude Monet in Giverny before cruising back along the Seine to Paris. See the highlights of this impresive capital city on a guided tour before your superb Normandy Coast cruise comes to an end.
RT172 Operated by Riviera Travel
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Paris and Normandy on the Seine Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Paris (France)
Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Paris or fly from the UK to Charles de Gaulle airport and transfer to your ship, moored on the River Seine. The dedicated crew will welcome you aboard your floating hotel.
Day 2 - Les Andelys
The lower Seine Valley is characterised by sweeping meanders and chalk cliffs. After scenic cruising this morning, moor at Les Andeleys. Les Andelys is dominated by the fascinating Chateau Gaillard, a medieval castle built by Richard the Lionheart to defend Rouen. This afternoon you are free to explore as you wish or there is opportunity to join a tour of Chateau Gaillard to learn about the history of the area.
Day 3 - Rouen - Caudebec
This morning awake in Rouen, Normandy's historic capital and one of Europe's finest medieval cities. See the quaint medieval alleys lined with antique shops and boutiques and cafes offering gastronomic delights from the region. In the Place Vieux Marche, flowers mark the spot where Joan of Arc was burned. See all the highlights during a guided tour. Cruise along the Seine during lunch to the pretty village of Caudebec. Perhaps take an evening stroll round its market square and see the richly decorated church.
Day 4 - Bayeux - Gold Beach
Today learn about the D-Day landings in 1944 and the Bayeux Tapestry with a full day tour. Bayeux is a delightful town which was spared during the war. The tapestry tells the tale of William of Normandy's expedition to invade England in 1066. This afternoon visit some of the monuments and places that are part of the remarkable D-Day landings including the Gold Beach on the Normandy coast where there are remnants of Mulberry Harbour. (Please note lunch is not provided today).
Day 5 - Honfleur
Drive to Honfleur, one of the most scenic areas on the northern French coast. See the old harbour, well-preserved 18th century houses and half-timbered buildings. Claude Monet painted here many times. Continue cruising along the Seine this afternoon.
Day 6 - Vernon - Giverny
From Vernon, take a short drive to Giverny visiting the famous home and gardens of the impressionist Claude Monet. After lunch explore the streets of Vernon lined with quaint half-timbered houses before cruising back to Paris.
Day 7 - Paris
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of the capital city, Paris. Highlights include the Notre Dame, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. Explore Paris at leisure this afternoon. Perhaps visit the grand Place de la Concorde which shows off the magnificent 18th century architecture or the Louvre is home to one of the finest collection's of art including the Mona Lisa. Captain's Farewell Dinner this evening.
Day 8 - Paris - UK
This morning transfer to the station for your Eurostar back to London St Pancras or alternatively to the airport for your return flight home.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.