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. The world of French royalty will unfold before your eyes with four exclusive châteaux visits. Château La Roche Guyon perched above the Seine is a fascinating place. Here you’ll discover 10 centuries of French history through your renowned hosts while enjoying a wine tasting. Hidden behind trees that are several hundred years old lies Château de Bizy, nicknamed the “Versailles of Normandy.” Walk through the torch-lit gardens and past breathtaking sculptured gardens to the main reception room, where you’ll attend a private chamber music concert. This river cruise is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime festive royal journey for you.
Highlights
Visit Château de Bizy, an ideal setting for a concert of classical music in Vernon.
Wander through the streets of Rouen and the 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. You will 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, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Today you will 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, you can 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.
Imagine that a private “secret” tour that takes you where others cannot go?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 glittering Hall of Mirrors. You will have a great time in a secret tour to this 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. You'll also be taken inside 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 Latin Quarter. Wander the streets 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.
Day 8: Paris | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Today you will disembark the ship and will be transferred to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
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
Please Note: Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
- All fares are per guest in US Dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
- Single Supplement applies for single accommodation. Solo occupancy pricing is dependent on cabin type, contact us for details.
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
We are so glad that we chose Adventure Life. The service is top-notch. Everything is well taken care of and we just have to print the documents and go. Franny even gave us timely updates on possible airport strike.
