Overview

Experience the best of France on an unforgettable river cruise that combines the romance and energy of Paris with the breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and fascinating history of Normandy.

Begin your journey in Paris, then cruise along the beautiful Seine River to Vernon, where you can choose between two memorable excursions. Visit Claude Monet’s magnificent gardens at Giverny, where the landscapes that inspired his famous paintings come to life, or explore Bizy Castle, often called “Normandy’s Versailles.”

Continue to the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, where you can visit legendary sites including Omaha Beach, the Point du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery. In Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy and the city forever associated with Joan of Arc, enjoy a guided walk through the charming medieval quarter and admire the magnificent Gothic Rouen Cathedral, once the tallest building in the world.

From Conflans, choose another fascinating experience. Explore Auvers-sur-Oise, the picturesque village that inspired artists including Vincent van Gogh, or visit Malmaison, the former country residence of Napoleon and Josephine.

Throughout your cruise, savor the flavors of France with delicious wine and cheese, while enjoying the ever-changing scenery along the Seine and discovering the country’s charming towns and historic treasures.

And, of course, no French adventure would be complete without time in Paris. Discover the city’s rich history on a guided walking tour or see its most iconic landmarks on a sightseeing excursion. From its timeless architecture and world-famous attractions to its vibrant cafés and romantic atmosphere, Paris is the perfect finale to an extraordinary journey through France.

Daily Itinerary
(Subject to Change)

DAY 1 - June 10, 2027

Overnight flight to Paris

We will take a motorcoach to Chicago O'Hare Airport and take the overnight flight to Paris.

 

DAY 2 – JUNE 11, 2027

Arrive in Paris

Arrive in Paris this morning and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to begin discovering the City of Light.

Take a leisurely stroll along the Seine, browse the charming shops and boutiques, or simply relax at a sidewalk café with a croissant and café au lait while watching Parisian life unfold around you.

Overnight: Paris

 

DAY 3 – JUNE 12, 2027

A Free Day in Paris

Enjoy another full day to explore Paris at your own pace. This is your opportunity to visit some of the city's famous landmarks, do some shopping, discover a neighborhood you've always wanted to see, or simply enjoy the magic of Paris.

Whether you spend the day exploring museums and historic sites or relaxing at a café, you'll have plenty of time to experience this unforgettable city before beginning your Seine River cruise.

Overnight: Paris

 

DAY 4 - June 13, 2027

Embark your Seine River Cruise

Enjoy some free time in Paris this morning before transferring to the ship. Settle into your stateroom and get acquainted with the ship as we prepare to begin our journey along the Seine.

This evening, enjoy dinner on board as our Seine River adventure officially begins. (D)

 

DAY 5 - June 14, 2027

Paris

The City of Lights

Wake up in Paris and choose from several exciting ways to explore the city.

ACTIVE: Experience Paris on foot with your Adventure Host.

CLASSIC: Discover the historic heart of Paris on a guided walking tour featuring the Palais-Royal, the Louvre Pyramid, Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, the Latin Quarter, and more.

CLASSIC: Enjoy a guided city tour showcasing some of Paris's most iconic landmarks and discovering why the City of Light has captivated visitors for centuries.

CLASSIC: Visit the magnificent Château de Malmaison, the former home of Napoleon Bonaparte and his wife, Joséphine.

You may also choose to explore Paris independently, perhaps strolling along the Seine or lingering over a glass of wine at a traditional Left Bank café.

This evening, return to the ship for dinner and live entertainment. (B,L,D)

 

DAY 6 - June 15, 2027

Conflans

The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV

Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising along the Seine toward Conflans. You may also choose an optional excursion to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, once home to generations of French kings and one of the country's most celebrated landmarks.

Once in Conflans, choose from:

ACTIVE: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host.

CLASSIC: Travel to Auvers-sur-Oise, the village where Vincent van Gogh spent his final days and where he is laid to rest. Discover the places that inspired some of his most memorable works.

Return to the ship and continue enjoying the beautiful scenery along the Seine. (B,L,D)

 

DAY 7 - June 16, 2027

Les Andelys & Rouen

Serenity on the Seine

Arrive in Les Andelys, one of the Seine's most picturesque villages. Today you will choose from the following excursions.

ACTIVE: Hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard, the dramatic medieval fortress built by King Richard the Lionheart.

CLASSIC: Take a guided walking tour of Les Andelys and discover this charming village nestled along the Seine.

Later, continue cruising to Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy.

Once in Rouen, choose:

ACTIVE: Explore the city by bicycle, discovering both famous landmarks and hidden gems.

CLASSIC: Take a guided walking tour through Rouen's medieval quarter, see the famous 16th-century Astronomical Clock and Notre-Dame Cathedral, and visit the historic sites associated with Joan of Arc.

DISCOVERY: Enjoy an onboard lecture about the events surrounding the Normandy landings of D-Day.

This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board. (B,L,D)

 

DAY 8 - June 17, 2027

Rouen & Normandy

Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions

Today is one of the most meaningful days of our journey as we travel into Normandy and explore the historic sites of the D-Day invasion of World War II.

Choose from several excursion options:

CLASSIC – AMERICAN D-DAY SITES: Visit significant American sites, including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc and the Normandy American Cemetery.

CLASSIC – BRITISH & CANADIAN D-DAY SITES: Visit important British and Canadian memorials, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, Arromanches, Juno Beach and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery.

CLASSIC – NORMANDY COUNTRYSIDE: Discover the traditional side of Normandy with a guided tour through the beautiful countryside, including a tasting of the region's famous Calvados brandy.

Return to the ship this evening after a memorable day exploring Normandy.  (B,L,D)

 

DAY 9 - June 18, 2027

Caudebec

Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine

Cruise through the beautiful Normandy countryside as we make our way to Caudebec.

ACTIVE: Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host.

CLASSIC: Follow the Normandy Abbeys Route, home to more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustinian abbeys and churches built along the Seine.

This afternoon, you may also choose an optional excursion to Honfleur, a picturesque historic harbor town on the Normandy coast known for its charming waterfront and artistic heritage. (B,L,D)

 

DAY 10 - June 19, 2027

Vernon

Monet’s Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour

Arrive in Vernon and choose from several ways to experience the surrounding countryside.

ACTIVE: Take a guided bike ride through the picturesque Normandy countryside from Vernon to Giverny, ending with a visit to Monet's famous gardens and home.

CLASSIC: Visit Giverny, the home and inspiration of renowned Impressionist painter Claude Monet. Explore his charming residence, flower gardens and famous water garden that inspired many of his masterpieces.

CLASSIC: Visit Bizy Castle, often referred to as the “Versailles of Normandy,” and admire its magnificent courtyard, gardens and historic stables.

While cruising, enjoy a traditional French luncheon featuring authentic French crêpes, followed by a pastry demonstration.  (B,L,D)

 

DAY 11 - June 20, 2027

Disembarkation in Paris

After breakfast, bid farewell to your ship and your fellow travelers as our Seine River Cruise Adventure comes to an end.

Disembark in Paris and transfer to the airport for your return flight home, taking with you wonderful memories of Paris, Normandy, the Seine and the historic places we experienced along the way. (B)

 

B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner denotes meals included with the package.

Excursion options and activities are subject to availability and may be modified by the cruise line.

Optional 3 - Night Extension to London

DAY 11 - June 20, 2027

Disembarkation in Paris & Start your Journey to London

Bid adieu to your Avalon ship after breakfast. An included transfer delivers you to the train station. Travel to London by high-speed Eurostar train (Standard class). (B)

DAY 12- June 21, 2027

London

England’s Exciting Capital

Enjoy a morning Guided Sightseeing including all of London’s famous landmarks. Drive past the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben; Westminster Abbey, where William and Catherine, the Prince and Princess of Wales, were married; Whitehall’s mounted horseguards; the Prime Minister’s Downing Street; Buckingham Palace and Piccadilly Circus. Then, visit St. Paul’s Cathedral (except on Sundays). Sir Christopher Wren’s masterpiece with its world-famous dome is an iconic feature of London’s skyline. (B)

While we include your choice of many excursions on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Please ask what options are available for purchase.

 

DAY 13- June 22, 2027

London

Free Time on the Thames

Enjoy a free day exploring this spectacular city at your own pace. Perhaps take to the sky on the London Eye for fantastic views over the city or visit Windsor Castle for a tour of the magnificent State Apartments. In the evening, see one of the dozens of celebrated West End shows, or enjoy dinner at a traditional London pub, followed by a relaxing night-time cruise on the Thames River. There are so many ways to make your stay unforgettable. (B)

While we include your choice of many excursions on your trip, you may wish to explore other options to enhance your free time. Please ask what options are available for purchase.

 

DAY 14- June 23, 2027

London

Your trip to London comes to an end this morning after Breakfast. You will be taken to the airport to fly home. (B)

 

B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner denotes meals included with the package.

Included with this Package

  • Round Trip Group Transfers Between Bloomington and Chicago
  • Round Trip Air from O'Hare Intl Airport
  • Round Trip Airport Transfers in Destination
  • 2 Pre - Nights Hotel in Paris
  • Transfers to/from the ship
  • 7-Night Cruise on Avalon Artistry II
  • All meals as noted in the itinerary
  • Non-Alcoholic drinks on the ship
  • Beer & Wine with Lunch & Dinner while on the ship
  • Happy Hour with free house beer, wine, spirits, and a featured cocktail of the day
  • Excursion at each port
  • Wi-Fi
  • Ship Gratuities
  • Port fees and taxes
  • Direct Travel Host with 30 or more guests

Not Included:

  • Meals & drinks not listed in the itinerary
  • Personal items
  • Cost of Baggage
  • Airline Upgrades
  • Gratuities on land & excursions
  • Travel Insurance

Deposit & Final Payment

A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person is due upon reservation.
Space is limited. Reservations will be confirmed in order received.
The final payment is due March 1, 2027.
All monies paid are non-refundable. We highly recommend travel insurance.