Grand France with 2 Nights in French Riviera (Northbound) 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 17-day journey through the heart of France, where history, art, and culture converge in a symphony of experiences. From the sun-drenched beaches of the French Riviera to the historic landmarks of Normandy, this multi-day tour offers a rich tapestry of destinations and attractions. Explore the charming streets of Nice, the artistic legacy of Arles, and the medieval wonders of Avignon. Savor the flavors of the Rhône wine region and the culinary delights of Lyon. Discover the timeless beauty of Paris, where iconic landmarks and hidden gems await. With luxurious accommodations, guided tours, and delightful meals, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure through the enchanting landscapes of France. Join us for an immersive experience that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the cultural treasures of this remarkable country.
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
Cruise ship
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
#ILoveNICE
Cleres Zoological Park
Palais des Papes
Château Gaillard
Louvre Museum
Fondation Monet in Giverny
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Eiffel Tower
Arles Amphitheatre
Palais Garnier
Botanical Garden
Queen's House
Place Bellecour
Évreux Cathedral
Arbre de la Liberté
Biotropica, animal gardensDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Nice
- Nice - Arrival day
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Welcome to the enchanting French Riviera! Upon arrival in Nice, you'll have the day to explore at your leisure. Stroll along the sun-kissed beaches and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of this Mediterranean gem. Enjoy the stunning coastal views and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discovering Nice
- Nice
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- #ILoveNICE
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Embark on a guided tour of Nice, often referred to as the 'Queen of the French Riviera.' Wander through the charming streets of Vieux Nice, where history comes alive in its baroque churches and narrow alleys. After a day of exploration, enjoy a delightful breakfast to start your day.
Day 3 – Day 3: Boarding in Arles
- Arles
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Today, you'll transfer to Arles to board your luxurious Avalon Suite Ship®. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before setting sail. As you settle into your comfortable accommodations, prepare for an overnight docking in Arles, where you'll be treated to a delightful dinner onboard.
Day 4 – Day 4: Artistic Arles
- Arles
- Avignon
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- L'espace Van Gogh
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of Arles with a guided walking tour. Visit the Roman Amphitheater and explore the city that inspired Vincent van Gogh. Enjoy a glass of wine at Le Café Van Gogh before sailing to Avignon for an overnight docking. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 5 – Day 5: Avignon's Historical Wonders
- Avignon
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- Palais des Papes
- Pont du Gard Museum
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Explore the fortress city of Avignon with a guided tour of the Palace of the Popes. Capture the beauty of the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet and enjoy optional excursions to the Pont du Gard or Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Delight in onboard entertainment and savor breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 6 – Day 6: Viviers' Timeless Charm
Day 6: Viviers' Timeless Charm
- Orange Cathedral
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Sail to the quaint village of Viviers and embark on a guided walking tour. Discover the Romanesque cathedral and the old town's historical influences. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening cruise to Tain l'Hermitage, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 7 – Day 7: Tournon's Medieval Marvels
- Lyon
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- Train de l'Ardèche
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Explore Tournon, one of France's oldest medieval towns, with a guided walking tour. Visit the 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. In the afternoon, cruise to Lyon, where you'll dock overnight. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard.
Day 8 – Day 8: Lyon's Cultural Riches
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Join a guided tour of Lyon, exploring Fourvière Hill and the vibrant Place des Terreaux. Spend free time biking through the city's squares and along the rivers. Enjoy live entertainment as you cruise to Tournus, with meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 9 – Day 9: Wine and Cheese Delights
Day 9: Wine and Cheese Delights
Venture into the Mâconnais region to explore its renowned Chardonnay vineyards and enjoy a wine-tasting session in a medieval castle. Cruise along the Saône River and indulge in a cheese tasting onboard. Overnight docking in Chalon-sur-Saône, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 10 – Day 10: From Beaune to Paris
- Beaune
- Paris
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Travel by high-speed train from Dijon to Paris, where you'll board your Suite Ship® for an overnight cruise to Vernon. Enjoy breakfast and dinner as you journey to the City of Light.
Day 11 – Day 11: Artistic Inspirations in Vernon
- Vernon
- Les Andelys
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- Château Gaillard
- Fondation Monet in Giverny
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Explore the Chateau des Tourelles in Vernon or take a guided tour of Giverny, the home of Claude Monet. Alternatively, visit Bizy Castle, known as 'Normandy's Versailles.' Enjoy a traditional French luncheon onboard before cruising to Les Andelys. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 12 – Day 12: Abbeys Along the Seine
Day 12: Abbeys Along the Seine
Enjoy a bike ride along the Seine or take a guided tour of the Normandy Abbeys Route, home to numerous medieval abbeys. Opt for an excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur. Overnight docking in Caudebec, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.
Day 13 – Day 13: Normandy's Historic Beaches
- Rouen
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- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Join a guided tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian sites or delve into Normandy's agricultural heritage. Enjoy live entertainment onboard as you cruise to Rouen. Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Day 14 – Day 14: Rouen's Historic Heart
- Rouen
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- Cleres Zoological Park
- Évreux Cathedral
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Explore Rouen with a guided walking tour, visiting the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the medieval quarter. Alternatively, discover the city by bike. Enjoy an evening cruise to Conflans, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 15 – Day 15: Artistic Legacies in Conflans
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Visit Auvers-sur-Oise, the resting place of Vincent van Gogh, or explore the Château de Malmaison, home of Napoléon Bonaparte. Consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. Cruise to Paris in the evening, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided.
Day 16 – Day 16: Parisian Splendor
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
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Discover the heart of Paris with a guided walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre Museum, and Eiffel Tower. Alternatively, enjoy a guided city tour of iconic sites. Spend the day exploring Paris at your own pace, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 17 – Day 17: Departure from Paris
- Paris - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey with a delightful breakfast in Paris. Reflect on the memories made during this extraordinary tour of France's most captivating destinations.
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