A Culinary Experience in Grand France with 3 Nights in London (Northbound) 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 18-day journey through the heart of France and England, where history, art, and culture converge in a tapestry of unforgettable experiences. From the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence to the bustling streets of London, this multi-day tour offers a perfect blend of guided excursions, leisure time, and luxurious accommodations. Discover the artistic legacy of Van Gogh in Arles, the grandeur of the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, and the culinary delights of Lyon. Sail along the Seine, explore the historic Normandy beaches, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Paris. Conclude your adventure in London, where iconic landmarks and rich history await. With expertly curated activities, fine dining, and comfortable accommodations, this tour promises an enriching and memorable journey through two of Europe's most captivating countries.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Avalon Poetry II or similar
3 nights in London
14 nights of accommodation onboard an Avalon Waterways River cruise ship
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Destinations
Marseille
Dijon
Paris
Beaune
Lyon
Arles
Vernon
Avignon
RouenMap
Attractions
Normandy American Cemetery
Palais des Papes
Château Gaillard
Louvre Museum
Bayeux Cathedral
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Arc de Triomphe
Eiffel Tower
Arles Amphitheatre
Évreux CathedralDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Marseille to Arles
- Marseille
- Arles - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting landscapes of France. As you arrive in Marseille, prepare to embark on a luxurious cruise journey. Your Suite Ship® awaits in the charming city of Arles, where you will spend your first night docked. Enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you settle in and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Arles to Avignon
- Arles
- Avignon
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- Arles Amphitheatre
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Immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of Arles, a city that inspired Vincent van Gogh. Choose between a power walk, a painting workshop, or a guided tour of the Roman Amphitheater. Relish a crêpes lunch on board before sailing to Avignon, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 3 – Day 3: Avignon
- Avignon
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- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
- Pont du Gard Museum
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Explore Avignon, the City of Popes, with its grand ramparts and the majestic Palace of the Popes. Opt for excursions to the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, or the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Capture the essence of Avignon's art, culture, and historic sites before enjoying live entertainment on board.
Day 4 – Day 4: Viviers
- Avignon
- Tain-l'Hermitage
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Sail leisurely to the quaint village of Viviers. Choose to hike to the hilltop Cathedral or explore the Old Town with a guided walk and local culinary tasting. Spend the afternoon at your leisure or join an optional excursion before continuing your cruise to Tain l'Hermitage.
Day 5 – Day 5: Tournon to Lyon
- Lyon
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- Musée du car
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Discover Tournon, one of France's oldest medieval cities, with a guided walking tour or a morning hike. Visit the 16th-century castle and Roman ruins before cruising to Lyon. Onboard, enjoy a pastry demonstration and a French cuisine tasting dinner with wine pairing.
Day 6 – Day 6: Lyon to Tournus
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Experience Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, with a culinary walk or a guided sightseeing tour from Fourvière Hill. Explore the Old Town's medieval alleyways and vibrant cafés. In the evening, enjoy a dinner inspired by Paul Bocuse as you sail to Tournus.
Day 7 – Day 7: Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône
Day 7: Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône
Venture into the Mâconnais region to explore its renowned Chardonnay vineyards and partake in a wine-tasting session at a medieval castle. Later, savor a cheese tasting onboard and enjoy live entertainment as you cruise to Chalon-sur-Saône.
Day 8 – Day 8: Beaune to Paris
- Beaune
- Dijon
- Paris
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune, home to the famous Van der Weyden painting. In the afternoon, travel by high-speed train from Dijon to the vibrant city of Paris, where your Suite Ship® awaits for an overnight cruise to Vernon.
Day 9 – Day 9: Vernon to Les Andelys
- Vernon
- Les Andelys
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- Château Gaillard
- Fondation Monet in Giverny
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Explore the artistic legacy of Vernon with a visit to the Chateau des Tourelles or Giverny, the inspiration for Monet's masterpieces. Alternatively, tour the magnificent Bizy Castle. Enjoy a traditional French luncheon on board before cruising to the picturesque town of Les Andelys.
Day 10 – Day 10: Caudebec
Day 10: Caudebec
- Valmont Abbey
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Delight in a relaxing bike ride along the Seine or take a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, exploring the rich history of medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur.
Day 11 – Day 11: Normandy
- Rouen
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- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Embark on a guided tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian commemorative sites or delve into Normandy's agricultural heritage with a taste of Calvados and a visit to the Bayeux Tapestry.
Day 12 – Day 12: Rouen
- Rouen
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- Cleres Zoological Park
- Évreux Cathedral
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Discover Rouen, the city of Joan of Arc, with a guided bike tour or a walking tour of its medieval quarter. Marvel at the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Astronomical Clock before enjoying an evening cruise to Conflans.
Day 13 – Day 13: Conflans
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison. Alternatively, opt for an excursion to the Palace of Versailles. Enjoy an evening cruise to Paris.
Day 14 – Day 14: Paris
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
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Explore the City of Light with a guided walk through Paris's historic heart, including the Palais-Royal and the Louvre. Alternatively, join a city tour to see iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy free time to explore Paris at your leisure.
Day 15 – Day 15: Paris to London
- Paris
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Bid farewell to your Avalon cruise as you transfer to the train station for a high-speed Eurostar journey to London. Enjoy the scenic ride and prepare for the next leg of your adventure in England's vibrant capital.
Day 16 – Day 16: London
Day 16: London
Discover the iconic landmarks of London with a guided sightseeing tour. Marvel at the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Visit St. Paul's Cathedral and explore the vibrant city streets, soaking in the rich history and culture of England's capital.
Day 17 – Day 17: London
Day 17: London
Enjoy a day of leisure in London, exploring at your own pace. Take a ride on the London Eye for panoramic views or visit Windsor Castle. In the evening, catch a West End show or dine at a traditional pub before a serene nighttime cruise on the Thames.
Day 18 – Day 18: Departure from London
Day 18: Departure from London
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a final breakfast in London. Reflect on the memories made across France and England as you prepare for your departure.
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