Paris and Normandy on the Seine River

Motorcoach from Central PA to a local international airport for an overnight flight to Paris, France.

*Air Schedule will be shared once available.

Welcome to France! There will be free time to explore the city at leisure before checking into your hotel for the start of your French vacation! Hotel: Maison Astor, Curio by Hilton (or similar)

Take in the beauty and romance of Paris on your guided city tour. Paris sets the world stage for art, fashion, shopping, culture and so much more. After the city tour explore Paris’s “Workshop of Lights”, a uniquely immersive digital art experience. You will be treated to an unforgettable colorful multimedia exhibition, utilizing 140 video projectors and a state-of-the-art sound system of famed artists’ works. The memories from today will last a lifetime! (Breakfast)

After checking out of the hotel, visit Montmartre, long known as the city’s premier artist’s enclave. During the mid to late 1800’s, artists also began calling Montmartre home. Pissarro and Jongkind were two of the first to live there. After your experience at Montmartre, you will board the  AmaLyra  for a 7-night journey along the Seine River. (Breakfast)

Uncover the history of Château Gaillard, the former stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, situated on the chalk cliffs high above the Seine, on a morning tour. Or, if you prefer a more active adventure, you can hike there from the banks of the Seine, admiring the scenic views along the way. For those who wish to explore the area on two wheels, join a guided bike tour through the charming town of Les Andelys. The ship will leave Paris today to start the experience along the Seine.

This morning, set out on an excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur, renowned for its picturesque harbor, and for being an inspirational site for Impressionist painters. During the afternoon, you can join a city tour of the UNESCO designated Le Havre. Alternatively, you have the choice of a bike tour through Le Havre.

Experience the Normandy region with a variety of excursion options. For those wishing to go to the American sector of the historic Normandy Beaches, you will visit the cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, Omaha Beach, the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer and the village of Arromanches, where the remains of the floating harbor used during the WWII landings can be seen. If you prefer, you can tour the Gold and Juno beaches in the British and Canadian sectors, where you will visit Ranville Cemetery, Pegasus Bridge, the Canadian cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer, the WWII museum in Courseulle and, finally, Arromanches.

Spend the morning enjoying medieval Rouen with a choice of several excursions. Join a walking tour and see the square where Joan of Arc was martyred, as well as the Medieval Quarter and Great Clock. You also have the choice to go on the “Tastes of Normandy” tour, where you’ll be treated to the delicious flavors of the region, including chocolate, Norman cheese and cider; or get active by going on a guided bike tour. Visit Bonnemare Castle, a 16th-century architectural treasure lined with picturesque poplar trees.

Enjoy scenic cruising around Vernon before disembarking the ship for your excursion. You will have a choice of three excursions, depending on your interests. Visit Claude Monet’s home and gardens* in Giverny. Art lovers will immediately recognize images immortalized in Monet’s most beloved paintings—such as water lilies, Japanese bridges and graceful willow trees. Wander around his famous gardens and home where he lived for more than four decades. Or visit the regal 18th-century Château de Bizy, inspired by the opulence of Versailles. Enjoy an escorted tour of the palace and gardens. If you prefer a more active adventure, go on a guided bike tour, taking in the beautiful French countryside.

*If Monet’s Gardens is closed; an alternative tour will be offered. 

Travel to Auberge Ravoux in the heart of Auvers-sur-Oise, the last home of artist Vincent van Gogh. Following your time in Auberge Ravoux return to Paris. In the afternoon, experience the “City of Light” from a unique perspective when you board a modern river boat at the Port of Bourdonnais, located on the banks of the Seine River near the Eiffel Tower. With exterior seating and viewing platforms, your one-hour cruise will be a dream come true as you glide along the river and underneath Paris’s ornate bridges. From the boat, you will take in panoramic views of the city’s iconic buildings and monuments, including the Musee d’Orsay and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Return to the AmaLyra for one last evening and dinner in beautiful Paris.

Bid farewell to France taking home wonderful memories of your time sailing along the Seine River. Transfer to the airport for your flight and transportation back to Central PA.