French Masterpiece: Paris, Normandy & Bordeaux 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 15-day journey through the heart of France, where history, art, and culture converge along the Seine and Garonne Rivers. This multi-day tour offers a seamless blend of guided excursions and leisure time, allowing you to explore iconic cities like Paris and Bordeaux, as well as charming towns and villages such as Vernon, Les Andelys, and Saint-Émilion. Discover the artistic inspirations of Monet, the historical significance of Normandy's beaches, and the exquisite flavors of Bordeaux's wine region. With luxurious accommodations aboard your Suite Ship® and a variety of activities tailored to your interests, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of France's most captivating destinations. Enjoy the flexibility of choosing from a range of excursions, from guided tours of historical sites to leisurely bike rides through picturesque landscapes. Each day brings new adventures, culminating in a rich tapestry of experiences that celebrate the essence of France.
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 Waterways cruise ships
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
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
Map
Attractions
Pavillon de Manse
Vieux-la-Romaine Museum
Cleres Zoological Park
Champ de Mars
Château Gaillard
Louvre Museum
Bayeux Cathedral
National Opera of Bordeaux
Parc Mauresque
Arc de Triomphe
Eiffel Tower
Palais Garnier
Botanical Garden
Queen's House
Évreux Cathedral
Château Peixotto
Arbre de la Liberté
Biotropica, animal gardensDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Paris
Day 1: Paris
- Pavillon de Manse
- More
Welcome to the enchanting city of Paris, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits your arrival. Spend the afternoon exploring the romantic streets of the City of Light. Whether you choose to shop, stroll, or simply enjoy a croissant at a café, Paris offers a perfect start to your Seine River adventure. As evening falls, embark on your cruise to Vernon, with a delightful dinner on board.
Day 2 – Day 2: Vernon to Les Andelys
Day 2: Vernon to Les Andelys
- Château Gaillard
- Les Jardins d'Angélique
- Biotropica, animal gardens
- More
Immerse yourself in the artistic and historical allure of Vernon. Choose to explore the enchanting Chateau des Tourelles or visit Monet's inspirational home and gardens in Giverny. Alternatively, discover the grandeur of Bizy Castle. As you sail to Les Andelys, savor a traditional French luncheon. Upon arrival, hike to the historic Château Gaillard or enjoy a guided tour of this picturesque town. Conclude your day with an overnight cruise to Caudebec.
Day 3 – Day 3: Caudebec
Day 3: Caudebec
- Valmont Abbey
- More
Discover the ancient abbeys along the Seine with a guided tour of the Normandy Abbeys Route, showcasing medieval Benedictine and Augustine architecture. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the river. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Return to your ship for an overnight stay in Caudebec.
Day 4 – Day 4: Normandy
Day 4: Normandy
- Vieux-la-Romaine Museum
- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Bayeux Cathedral
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
- More
Step back in time with a guided tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach and the Pointe du Hoc monument. Visit the American Cemetery or explore British and Canadian commemorative sites. Alternatively, delve into Normandy's rich agricultural heritage with a visit to the Bayeux Tapestry and the picturesque village of Beuvron en Auge. Return to your ship for an evening cruise to Rouen.
Day 5 – Day 5: Rouen
Day 5: Rouen
- Cleres Zoological Park
- Évreux Cathedral
- More
Explore the historic city of Rouen, known for its medieval charm and significant landmarks. Choose a guided bike tour to uncover hidden gems or a walking tour to visit the site of Joan of Arc's martyrdom, the medieval quarter, and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. As evening approaches, enjoy an overnight cruise to Conflans.
Day 6 – Day 6: Conflans
Day 6: Conflans
- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
- More
Follow in the footsteps of artistic and historical figures in Conflans. Visit Auvers-sur-Oise, where Vincent van Gogh spent his final days, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoléon Bonaparte. Consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. Enjoy an evening cruise back to Paris.
Day 7 – Day 7: Paris
Day 7: Paris
- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
- More
Delve into the heart of Paris with a guided walk through its historic and cultural landmarks. Discover the Palais-Royal, the Louvre pyramid, and the vibrant Latin Quarter. Alternatively, embark on a city tour to see iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées. Spend your afternoon exploring Paris at your leisure or relaxing in a charming café. Overnight docking in Paris.
Day 8 – Day 8: Paris to Bordeaux
Day 8: Paris to Bordeaux
Bid farewell to Paris as you journey to Bordeaux, where your next Suite Ship® awaits. Begin your exploration of the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers, soaking in the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of this renowned wine region. Enjoy an overnight stay in Bordeaux, with the possibility of sailing to Cadillac-sur-Garonne, depending on tide and water levels.
Day 9 – Day 9: Cadillac-sur-Garonne
Day 9: Cadillac-sur-Garonne
- Château Peixotto
- More
Explore the birthplace of Montesquieu at Château de la Brède, a fortress-style castle surrounded by a moat. Alternatively, indulge in a wine tasting at a local château, savoring the sweet notes of Sauternes. Return to your ship for an evening of live entertainment and an overnight stay in Cadillac-sur-Garonne.
Day 10 – Day 10: Cussac Fort Médoc to Blaye
Day 10: Cussac Fort Médoc to Blaye
Sail to Cussac Fort Médoc and embark on a guided E-bike tour through Bordeaux's picturesque wine region. Alternatively, visit a historic château in the Médoc area for a wine tasting experience. In the evening, enjoy a brief sail to Blaye, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 11 – Day 11: Blaye to Bourg
Day 11: Blaye to Bourg
- National Opera of Bordeaux
- More
Discover the Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site, followed by a scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche. Alternatively, explore Blaye from a different perspective with a visit to a local art gallery and wine tasting. Sail to the storybook village of Bourg for an overnight stay.
Day 12 – Day 12: Saint-Émilion to Bordeaux
- Saint-Émilion
- Bordeaux
- More
Explore the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its legendary landscapes and rich history. In the afternoon, sail back to Bordeaux, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 13 – Day 13: Bordeaux
Day 13: Bordeaux
Discover the heart of Bordeaux with a guided walking tour, exploring its stunning squares, avenues, and cathedrals. Consider an optional excursion to Les Bassins des Lumières for an immersive art and music experience. Enjoy an overnight stay in Bordeaux.
Day 14 – Day 14: Bordeaux
Day 14: Bordeaux
- Parc Mauresque
- More
Join your Adventure Host for a bike ride along Bordeaux's scenic river views. Alternatively, embark on a full-day tour to the seaside resort of Arcachon, where you can admire its 19th-century architecture and savor local oysters and wine. Return to Bordeaux for an overnight stay.
Day 15 – Day 15: Bordeaux
Day 15: Bordeaux
Conclude your unforgettable journey with a final breakfast on board your Suite Ship®. Reflect on the memories made as you disembark in Bordeaux, carrying the essence of France's rich history and culture with you.
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