Grand France with 3 nights in London WWII Remembrance & History Cruise (Northbound) (17 destinations)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of France and England, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Marseille, setting sail on a luxurious Suite Ship® to explore the enchanting regions of Provence and the Rhône Valley. Discover the artistic legacy of Vincent van Gogh in Arles, the medieval charm of Avignon, and the picturesque beauty of Viviers and Tournon. As you cruise along the Saône River, indulge in wine and cheese tastings, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Normandy's WWII sites. Conclude your French adventure in the iconic city of Paris before traveling to London, where the vibrant energy of England's capital awaits. With guided tours, cultural excursions, and leisure time to explore at your own pace, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience. Enjoy the finest accommodations, delectable meals, and exceptional service throughout your journey.
Included
14 nights accommodation onboard Avalon Waterways cruise ship
3 nights in London
Avalon Waterways cruise ship
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
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
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Marseille to Arles
- Marseille
- Arles - Arrival day
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Begin your enchanting journey in France as you board your luxurious Suite Ship® in the vibrant city of Marseille. Arrive by mid-afternoon to ensure a smooth embarkation process. As you settle into your floating hotel, enjoy a delightful dinner on board while the ship sets sail towards the historic city of Arles, where you will dock overnight. This is the perfect opportunity to relax and prepare for the adventures that await you in the coming days.
Day 2 – Day 2: Arles to Avignon
- Arles
- Avignon
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- Arles Amphitheatre
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Awake in the captivating city of Arles, where you can choose to start your day with an invigorating power walk or immerse yourself in the artistic world of Vincent van Gogh through a painting workshop. Alternatively, embark on a guided walking tour to explore the Roman Amphitheater and other historic sites. Enjoy some leisure time at Le Café Van Gogh before the ship sails to Avignon, where you will dock overnight. Savor the local flavors with breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board.
Day 3 – Day 3: Avignon
- Avignon
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- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
- Château de Grignan
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Discover the fortress city of Avignon, renowned for its medieval architecture and rich history. Join a guided sightseeing tour to explore the impressive Palace of the Popes and the city's ancient ramparts. Opt for an excursion to the Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard or visit the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a taste of the Rhône wine region. Spend your afternoon exploring Avignon's vibrant art scene and historic sites at your leisure. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you dock overnight in Avignon.
Day 4 – Day 4: Viviers to Tain l'Hermitage
- Tain-l'Hermitage
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- Orange Cathedral
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Sail leisurely to the charming village of Viviers, where you can choose between a guided walk to the hilltop cathedral or a tour of the village's historic sites, including its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town. Experience the blend of Christian, Roman, and medieval influences that define this picturesque location. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board as you cruise towards Tain l'Hermitage, where you will dock overnight.
Day 5 – Day 5: Tournon to Lyon
- Lyon
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- Armenian Heritage Center
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Explore the historic town of Tournon, one of France's oldest medieval cities. Choose between a morning hike with your Adventure Host or a guided walking tour to discover the town's 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. After a morning of exploration, enjoy a leisurely cruise to the vibrant city of Lyon. Indulge in breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board as you dock overnight in Lyon, ready to explore its rich cultural heritage.
Day 6 – Day 6: Lyon to Tournus
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Discover the enchanting city of Lyon with a guided tour that takes you to the top of Fourvière Hill for panoramic views and a visit to the historic Old Town. Explore the vibrant Place des Terreaux and its lively cafés. Spend your afternoon cycling through the city's picturesque squares and along the riverbanks. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Tournus, where you will dock overnight. Relish in breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board.
Day 7 – Day 7: Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône
Day 7: Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône
- Royal Monastery of Brou
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Venture into the picturesque Mâconnais region to explore its renowned Chardonnay vineyards. Participate in a wine-tasting session in the cellars of a medieval castle, learning about the region's rich winemaking traditions. In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Saône River, taking in the stunning landscapes. Delight in a cheese tasting on board and enjoy live entertainment in the evening. Dock overnight in Chalon-sur-Saône, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided on board.
Day 8 – Day 8: Beaune to Paris
- Beaune
- Dijon
- Paris
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Travel to the charming town of Beaune and visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train from Dijon to the iconic city of Paris. Settle into your Suite Ship® for an evening cruise to Vernon. Enjoy breakfast and dinner on board as you prepare for the exciting adventures that await in the City of Light.
Day 9 – Day 9: Paris
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
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Experience the magic of Paris with a choice of guided tours. Explore the ancient heart of the city, including the Palais-Royal and Île de la Cité, or opt for a city tour showcasing iconic landmarks like the Louvre Museum, Eiffel Tower, and Arc de Triomphe. Alternatively, delve into history with a WWII tour, visiting the museum of Les Invalides. Consider an optional excursion to the opulent Palace of Versailles. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board as you dock overnight in Paris.
Day 10 – Day 10: Conflans to Les Andelys
- Les Andelys
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Delve into the artistic and historical heritage of France with a guided visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon Bonaparte. Participate in an onboard commemoration ceremony for the D-Day 80th Anniversary. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board as you cruise to Les Andelys, where you will dock overnight.
Day 11 – Day 11: Les Andelys to Caudebec
- Les Andelys
- Rouen
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- Château Gaillard
- Évreux Cathedral
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Embark on a guided hike to the historic ruins of Château Gaillard, once home to King Richard the Lionheart, or enjoy a walking tour of the picturesque town of Les Andelys. Alternatively, take a full-day excursion to Vimy Ridge and Beaumont-Hamel, significant WWI sites. In Rouen, explore the medieval quarter and visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral, site of Joan of Arc's martyrdom. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Caudebec, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included.
Day 12 – Day 12: Caudebec
Day 12: Caudebec
- Valmont Abbey
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Explore the rich history of Normandy with a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, home to over 100 medieval abbeys and churches. Alternatively, join a guided excursion to a V-1 flying bomb launch site. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur. Enjoy an onboard lecture about WWII and indulge in breakfast, lunch, and dinner as you dock overnight in Caudebec.
Day 13 – Day 13: Normandy to Vernon
- Vernon
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- Bayeux Cathedral
- Botanical Garden
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Delve into the history of Normandy with a guided tour of the WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian commemorative sites or join a 'Taste of Normandy' tour to discover the region's agricultural heritage, including a visit to the Bayeux Tapestry. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner on board as you cruise to Vernon, where you will dock overnight.
Day 14 – Day 14: Vernon to Paris
- Vernon
- Paris
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- Château Gaillard
- Fondation Monet in Giverny
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Explore the artistic legacy of Claude Monet with a guided tour of Giverny, visiting his home and gardens. Alternatively, discover the grandeur of Bizy Castle, known as 'Normandy's Versailles.' Participate in a traditional French luncheon on board, featuring authentic crêpes and a pastry demonstration. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner as you cruise back to Paris, where you will dock overnight.
Day 15 – Day 15: Paris to London
- Paris
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Conclude the French portion of your journey with a hearty breakfast before transferring to the train station. Board the high-speed Eurostar train to London, where you will continue your adventure in England's vibrant capital. Settle into your accommodation and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Day 16 – Day 16: London
Day 16: London
- Luton Hoo Estate
- Horniman Museum and Gardens
- London Stadium
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Discover the iconic landmarks of London with a guided sightseeing tour. Drive past the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Buckingham Palace. Visit the magnificent St. Paul's Cathedral, a masterpiece by Sir Christopher Wren. Enjoy breakfast as you immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of England's capital.
Day 17 – Day 17: London
Day 17: London
- Wardown Park
- Tulleys Escape Rooms
- London Stadium
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Enjoy a day of leisure in London, exploring the city at your own pace. Take a ride on the London Eye for breathtaking views or visit Windsor Castle to tour the State Apartments. In the evening, consider watching a West End show or dining at a traditional pub, followed by a relaxing cruise on the Thames River. Breakfast is included as you make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
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 incredible experiences and memories made during this multi-day tour as you prepare for your departure. Safe travels as you head home or continue your adventures elsewhere.
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