Europe's Heartland 2025

Today, cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys, nestled along the Seine River. Explore the medieval charm of this town, with its Norman-era houses and the imposing ruins of Château Gaillard, once the stronghold of King Richard the Lionheart. Choose from a variety of excursions, including a hike to the castle or a tour of the charming village of Lyons la Forêt, known for its beautiful half-timbered houses and lush beech forests.

Discover the vibrant city of Rouen, the capital of Normandy, rich in history and culture. Explore the beautifully restored Old Town, with its medieval architecture and charming streets. Visit the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Learn about the city's fascinating past, including its connections to Joan of Arc and Viking settlers. Enjoy free time to explore the city's stylish bistros and coffee shops, or join a guided tour to delve deeper into Rouen's captivating history.

Today, choose between a poignant excursion to the Somme Battlefields, where you'll visit significant sites from World War I, or a walking tour to Rouen's Fine Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of artworks. The Somme Battlefields tour includes visits to the Australian National Memorial and the Franco-Australian Museum, offering a deep insight into the history and sacrifices of the soldiers. Alternatively, explore the artistic treasures of Rouen's Fine Art Museum, featuring works by renowned artists.

Embark on a journey to the historic Normandy Beaches, where the D-Day Landings took place. Choose from various excursions focusing on different aspects of this pivotal event. Visit Omaha Beach and the Normandy American Cemetery, or explore the British Normandy Memorial and Pegasus Bridge. Alternatively, delve into the Canadian perspective at Juno Beach Centre. Each tour offers a profound insight into the bravery and sacrifices of the Allied forces during World War II.

Arrive in the quaint town of Caudebec-En-Caux, set along the Seine River. Explore the historic Notre Dame Caudebec-En-Caux, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Choose from a variety of excursions, including a cycling tour to Villequier with a visit to the Victor Hugo Museum, or a guided tour of the Normandy Abbey Road, featuring the impressive Jumièges Abbey. Discover the tales of the French Resistance or visit the Benedictine Palace in Fecamp for a taste of local history and culture.

Explore the charming town of Vernon, a gateway to the artistic haven of Giverny. Visit Monet's House and Garden, where the renowned artist found inspiration for his iconic works. Stroll through the picturesque gardens and discover the beauty that captivated Monet. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive concert at Château de La Roche Guyon, a historic site with stunning views and rich history. Experience the magic of classical music in this enchanting setting.

Discover the medieval charm of Conflans-Saint-Honore, located at the confluence of the Seine and Oise rivers. Choose from excursions to the artistic village of Auvers-Sur-Oise, where Van Gogh spent his final days, or explore the magnificent Chantilly Castle and Gardens. Alternatively, enjoy a kayaking adventure on the River Oise, taking in the scenic landscapes from a unique perspective. In the afternoon, relax on board as your Scenic Space-Ship cruises back to Paris.