Britain Sampler with Paris to Normandy 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary 16-day journey through the heart of the United Kingdom and France, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour offers an immersive experience, from the bustling streets of London to the serene beauty of the French countryside. Discover iconic landmarks, explore charming villages, and indulge in local delicacies as you travel through England, Scotland, and France. With comfortable accommodations, including stays at renowned hotels like the Hilton and Waldorf Astoria (or similar), and a luxurious cruise aboard the Avalon Suite Ship®, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Whether you're captivated by the ancient mysteries of Stonehenge, the romantic allure of Paris, or the historic significance of Normandy, each day brings new discoveries and cherished memories. Join us for a journey that combines the best of both worlds, blending guided tours with leisure time to explore at your own pace.
Included
8 nights onboard Avalon Tapestry II
7 nights hotel accommodation
Avalon Tapestry II:
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane bath products
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
Individual climate control and in-room safe
USB Ports
LONDON
Park Plaza Waterloo
The 494-room property is situated within walking distance of top London attractions, including the London Eye, the London Dungeons and the Imperial War Museum. The Florentine Restaurant serves a Brasserie-style menu; the bar features the best of British bubbles and craft beers as well as a range of signature cocktails; and for a relaxing cup of coffee, head to the illy Caffè bar. The hotel also boasts a fitness centre and a heated swimming pool. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available for guests throughout the hotel.
BATH
Double Tree By Hilton Bath
Settle into a warm, inviting guestroom at the DoubleTree by Hilton Bath hotel. Spoil yourself with the stunning views of the Pulteney Bridge and rolling hills.
LIVERPOOL
Aloft Hotel Liverpool
Aloft Liverpool offers an insight into the grand history of this buzzing city. Before revamping into the design savvy Aloft, the structure served as the splendid Royal Insurance Building with stunning features like wooden panelling, magnificient stained glass and marble floors, which have all been maintained. Today, the hotels features NYL Restaurant & Bar, offering an exciting mix of modern food and expertly mixed cocktails in a spectacular setting; Refuel, a one-stop, 24 hour, grab & go shop for drinks, food and tasty treats; and Re:charge, a fitness room complete with bikes, treadmills and elliptical machines. The spacious bedrooms are equipped with state-of-the art amenities and complimentary internet access is available throughout the hotel.
EDINBURGH
Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket
The Leonardo Royal Hotel Edinburgh Haymarket lies in the historical heart of the city, right next door to Haymarket station and a vast array of cafés, bars and restaurants. Discover the numerous sights and events in this lively city.
YORK
DoubleTree By Hilton York
The DoubleTree by Hilton York is located in the heart of York, overlooking the City Walls and just a 5-minute walk from York Minster. Guestroom features include a 49-inch HDTV, feather duvet and pillows (hypoallergenic available on request), seating area and desk, and amenities tray with mineral water. All guestrooms are fully air-conditioned. Other guest facilities include a laptop safe and USB port.
PARIS
Pullman Paris Tour Eiffel
Enjoying an unbeatable location next to the iconic Eiffel Tower, this 456-room sleek, modern hotel offers free Wi-Fi internet access throughout and has a California-inspired Brasserie with open kitchen and stylish wine bar. Other amenities include a large gym on the 9th floor with panoramic rooftop vistas.
Avalon Tapestry II: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
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
Coach, Avalon Tapestry II or similar
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: London
- London - Arrival day
- More
Arrive in the vibrant city of London and begin your journey with a leisurely afternoon to explore at your own pace. Settle into your accommodation, such as the Hilton (or similar), and prepare for the exciting days ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: London
- London
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Embark on a guided tour of London's iconic landmarks, including the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, and Westminster Abbey. Marvel at the grandeur of Buckingham Palace and explore the historic St. Paul’s Cathedral. Enjoy a free afternoon to discover more of the city at your leisure.
Day 3 – Day 3: London to Bath
- London
- Bath
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Depart London for a guided exploration of the mystical Stonehenge. Continue to the city of Bath, where you'll visit the ancient Roman Baths and enjoy free time to explore the city's stunning Georgian architecture. Overnight at a local hotel, such as the Macdonald Bath Spa Hotel (or similar).
Day 4 – Day 4: Ludlow to Liverpool
- Bath
- Liverpool
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- Castle Green
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Explore the medieval charm of Ludlow, visiting its historic castle and St. Laurence’s Church. Continue to the picturesque town of Llangollen before arriving in Liverpool for an evening of leisure. Stay overnight at the Pullman Liverpool (or similar).
Day 5 – Day 5: Lake District to Edinburgh
- Liverpool
- Edinburgh
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Journey through the scenic Lake District, stopping in Grasmere to taste the famous gingerbread. Visit Gretna Green, known for its romantic history, before arriving in Edinburgh for an evening of exploration. Overnight at the Waldorf Astoria Edinburgh (or similar).
Day 6 – Day 6: Edinburgh
- Edinburgh
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Discover Edinburgh's rich history with a guided tour of the New Town and Old Town, culminating in a visit to the iconic Edinburgh Castle. In the evening, enjoy the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo (seasonal).
Day 7 – Day 7: Abbotsford to York
- Edinburgh
- York
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Visit the historic Abbotsford House, then capture the beauty of Jedburgh Abbey. Continue to York for a guided walk through The Shambles and a visit to the magnificent York Minster. Overnight at The Grand, York (or similar).
Day 8 – Day 8: Stratford-upon-Avon
- York
- Stratford-upon-Avon
- London
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Explore the romantic history of Stratford-upon-Avon with visits to Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and Shakespeare’s Birthplace. Delve into the life of the legendary playwright before enjoying a leisurely evening. Overnight at the Arden Hotel (or similar).
Day 9 – Day 9: Paris
- Paris
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Transfer to Paris and board your luxurious Avalon Suite Ship®. Enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you prepare for the enchanting cruise ahead. Overnight on the ship.
Day 10 – Day 10: Vernon to Les Andelys
- Vernon
- Les Andelys
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- Château Gaillard
- Fondation Monet in Giverny
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Begin your day with a morning stretch session, then choose between exploring the Chateau des Tourelles, a guided tour of Monet's Giverny, or a visit to Bizy Castle. In the afternoon, cruise to Les Andelys, where you can hike to Château Gaillard or enjoy a walking tour. Overnight on the ship.
Day 11 – Day 11: Caudebec
- Les Andelys
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- Valmont Abbey
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Day 12 – Day 12: Normandy
- Rouen
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- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Bayeux Cathedral
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Choose from a guided tour of the WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, or explore the British and Canadian commemorative sites. Alternatively, delve into Normandy's rich agricultural heritage. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Rouen.
Day 13 – Day 13: Rouen
- Rouen
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- Natural History Museum
- Évreux Cathedral
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Explore Rouen with a guided bike tour or a walking tour of the city's medieval quarter, including the site of Joan of Arc's martyrdom and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. Overnight cruise to Conflans.
Day 14 – Day 14: Conflans
- Franconville-la-Garenne
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Enjoy a bike ride along the Seine or visit Auvers-sur-Oise, the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh. Alternatively, tour the Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon and Josephine. Consider an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. Overnight cruise to Paris.
Day 15 – Day 15: Paris
- Paris
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- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
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Experience the magic of Paris with a guided walk through its historic heart, or take a city tour to see iconic landmarks like the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe, and Eiffel Tower. Spend the afternoon exploring on your own or relaxing in a Left Bank café. Overnight docking in Paris.
Day 16 – Day 16: Paris
- Paris - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey with a final breakfast in Paris. Reflect on the memories made and the sights seen as you prepare for your departure.
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