Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. You will be greeted by a representative and transferred to the ship.

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.

Today you will disembark the ship and will be transferred to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home.