La Belle France: Paris, Normandy & The River Seine
Itinerary
Depart the USA
Depart the USA for Paris (in-flight meals)
Paris - Caen
Arrive this afternoon in Paris and travel to Caen for a private walking tour of Caen. Caen is a charming city that survived the massive Battle of Normandy. Admire the 11th century medieval castle built by William the Conqueror and explore St Peter’s Church which has been beautifully restored after World War II. Enjoy a welcome drink before dinner. (D)
Caen - Normandy Beaches
Today, explore Omaha Beach, the American Cemetery and Arromanches artificial harbor where you will learn historical facts about WWII and the D-Day invasion. (B)
Caen - Mont-St-Michel
Travel through scenic Normandy en route to the medieval Mont-St-Michel on a full-day trip from Paris. Discover the UNESCO World-Heritage-listed island and its iconic Gothic abbey, with a guide, and listen to fascinating history and legendary stories about the site. Enjoy ample time to explore the island, and admire views of the surrounding bay before traveling back to your hotel in Caen. (B)
Caen - Paris
Embark this afternoon to Paris, the romantic City of Light. Once entering the city, you will be transferred to the ship. After unpacking, join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Cocktail, followed by a specially-prepared Welcome Dinner. (B, D)
Conflans
Arrive in Conflans St. Honorine, at the confluence of the rivers Oise and Seine. Join a guided tour to the little town of Auvers-sur-Oise, an inspiration to many Impressionist masters, including Cezanne, Pissarro and Daubigny. The most famous of these artists is Vincent van Gogh, whose final resting place is here. Depart late this afternoon. (B, D)
Rouen
This morning, join a walking tour of the capital of the Normandy region and visit the cathedral that inspired Claude Monet, and the modern Church of Joan of Arc with its magnificent 16th-century stained-glass windows. This afternoon, either join a guided visit to the Rouen Museum of Fine Arts with its collection of impressionist paintings, or explore the countryside with a visit to Domaine Duclos Fougeray – a Norman farmhouse where you can learn about the local apple culture and the sheep herding tradition. Late this afternoon, the vessel departs as it continues northward. (B, D)
Le Havre
The harbor of Le Havre is your convenient base for three optional land explorations. Explore the Norman coastline on a walk along Étretat’s cliff-top paths for a view of the steep chalk rocks with impressive needle-like formations, which have inspired many well-known artists. This afternoon, opt for a tour to the nearby city of Honfleur, with its picturesque old harbor lined with 16th -18th century townhouses. Alternatively, join an excursion along the Côte Fleurie. This stretch of coastline is one of the most beautiful for its horticulture and scenery. On board the vessel this evening, enjoy the music of local chanson singers. (B, L, D)
Le Havre - Caudebec-en-Caux
Today, join us on a full-day Norman journey. Experience a combination of rich culinary traditions and historic landmarks including the closest harbor linked with the liberation of Western Europe after D-Day – the city of Arromanches with its remnants of World War II Mulberries. For those remaining on board, this afternoon offers the chance to explore the relaxing town of Caudebec-en-Caux on a walking tour. Or choose an excursion to Fécamp, a seaside resort and home to Le Palais Bénédictine, which produces the famous Bénédictine liqueur. The vessel departs after dinner this evening. (B, L, D)
Les Andelys - Vernon - Mantes-la-Jolie
Today, there are several choices for the day’s adventures. Relax in little town of Les Andelys or venture farther afield to nearby Giverny, to visit the home of Impressionist Claude Monet and the beautiful gardens which were inspiration for several works of art. For a more active outing, join the tours of the tranquil little towns of Les Andelys and Vernon, which reward with stories of Richard the Lionheart, vistas of Château-Gaillard and promenades along the riverbanks. After lunch on board, join an excursion to Château de Malmaison, the former residence of Joséphine and Napoleon Bonaparte, to immerse yourself in the privacy of the Imperial couple. Or visit La Roche Guyon and its magnificent Château. Rejoin the ship in Mantes-La-Jolie later this afternoon and prepare for a festive Captain’s Gala Dinner. (B, L, D)
Paris
Soak up the Parisian atmosphere, history, beauty, and way of life with a local historian or scholar during a half-day tour. On this popular itinerary, you will explore the highlights of Paris, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower. You will wander down boulevard-lined streets, visit famous monuments, marvel at the exquisite Gothic architecture, and delve deep into the history of “the City of Light”. This evening savor a gourmet dinner at Madame Brasserie (on the 1st floor of the Eiffel Tower). Spend the night on board in the French capital. (B, L, D)
Paris - USA
After breakfast, your AMADEUS crew bids you “adieu” and we hope to see you again soon! (B, L, D)Extensions
Paris
3 nights accommodation in a first class hotel in Paris, with breakfast included each morning All transfers included Guided City tour of Paris Enjoy all the sights, including Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower and Arc de TriompheAccommodations
7 Nights
MS Amadeus Diamond
Accommodations
7 Nights
MS Amadeus Diamond