Northern France and its “City of Light” sparkle even more during the holidays. The enchanting animated window displays on Boulevard Haussmann and the gloriously lit trees lining the Champs-Élysées infuse the city with magic. Discover the history and glamour of the world of French royalty with four exclusive visits to gorgeous châteaux. Enjoy wine tastings, wander through torch-lit formal gardens, and admire breathtaking sculptures. Attend a private chamber music concert, explore Paris with a knowledgeable local guide, and immerse yourself in the warm, cozy atmosphere of the bustling Christmas markets. This river cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime festive royal journey, an unforgettable experience that is sure to delight .
Highlights
Visit Château de Bizy, an ideal setting for a concert of classical music.
Wander through the streets of Rouen and the cozy Christmas market.
Explore the magnificently flamboyant Palace of Versailles with a guide.
Discover the City of Paris and Seine riverbank with an expert guide.
Today the Seine and your luxurious ship carry you to a château with close links to the history of French royalty, in a region that was once the borderland between French and English royal power. Visit Château de Bizy, an ideal setting for a concert of classical music. For those seeking a more active approach to today's excursion, you may choose to travel to the château by bicycle.
In the evening, enjoy a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.
Today visit the medieval capital of Normandy. Rouen has managed to preserve much of its historic core, despite being turned into a battlefield numerous times. See Rouen’s top sights as well as its splendid Christmas market, held on the square in front of the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times. Inside, listen to ethereal liturgical music enhanced by the cathedral’s wonderful acoustics. Another treat awaits at La Couronne—tea and cake at the restaurant where Julia Child had a life-changing first meal in France.
The magnificently flamboyant Palace of Versailles was built during a time of absolute power, setting new standards for over-the-top excess with its elaborate gardens, grand state apartments and the glittering Hall of Mirrors. Explore with a private "secret" tour that transports you behind the velvet ropes to learn more about the history of this legendary palace.
The shop windows of Paris are truly an art form, particularly during the holidays when they attract throngs of delighted onlookers. See these enchanting displays for yourself today on one of the city’s chicest streets. Visit the Paris Opera, described by its architect as a “Versailles for everyone.” Tonight, you will be treated to a Paris illuminations tour.
Join a local expert for a guided walk through two of the favorite neighborhoods in the “City of Light,” the Île de la Cité and the Latin Quarter. Wander the streets paved with stones worn by countless notable artists, writers and philosophers, including Matisse and Picasso, Hemingway and Fitzgerald. The cultural, political, artistic and financial heart of France, Paris is entrancing, magical and exhilarating. Every view is postcard worthy, and for the next few days it is yours to enjoy.
After visiting Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, Louis XIV was so green with envy that he gave his modest hunting lodge a total makeover. See the inspiration for Versailles on an excursion to this elaborately decorated winter wonderland.
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Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,099
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Classic
Magnificent appointed riverview stateroom (162-180 sq ft - 15-17 sq m) located on the Jules Verne Deck. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers.
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French Balcony
Sumptuous appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) located on the Balzac Deck with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers.
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Deluxe French Balcony
Luxuriant appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) located on the Victor Hugo Deck with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers.
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Suite
Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (260 sq ft - 24 sq m) located on the Victor Hugo Deck with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water.
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Grand Suite
Luxurious appointed riverview stateroom (410 sq ft - 38 sq m) located on the Victor Hugo Deck with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bot. The Grand Suite offers extra benefits, including a separate spacious living room, bathroom with a separate rain shower and tub, and secluded toilet and bidet area.
Notes
Included in Cruise Fare:
All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water
6 days of excursions all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
Guided “Taste of Christmas,” “Let's Go” and “Do as the Locals Do” programs
State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
Use of Nordic walking sticks
Free Internet and Wi-Fi access
Visits to 1 country: France
Visits to 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Excluded from Cruise Fare:
Prices exclude additional port charges of $190 per person
Airfare, international or local
Passport or Visa fees
Travel protection plan
Extensions or land tours
Losses or costs incurred as a result of medical services obtained while on tour
Any additional personal expenses
Note: The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided on board on the first day of your cruise.
Initial deposit is 15% of cruise fare plus any additional port charges., and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
