PLUS, your tour includes your choice of an excursion in Bordeaux so you can plan your day your way.
Next up are two incredible European river journeys on the Rhône, Saône, and Seine Rivers highlighting the best of France. Begin your adventure on the French Riviera before cruising. On the Rhône River from Arles, France—famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh—and its 1st-century Roman Amphitheater. On a guided tour of historic Avignon, see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world. Take a guided walk through the city of Tournon, beautifully nestled among vineyards and a medieval treasure of Roman ruins and a fascinating 16th-century castle. Visit Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital and a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture.
On your Seine River cruise, you’ll have the choice of seeing the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery; the delightful Les Andelys, Joan of Arc’s Rouen, Vincent Van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise, or Napoleon and Josephine’s Malmaison. On this French river cruise, you’ll enjoy wine, cheese, beautiful views, and stops in the most charming parts of France. Your vacation in France would not be complete without a stay in Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! Discover its true heart on a guided walk through the sites of Paris’ rich history or take a tour to see the iconic sites of this enchanting city. Walk in the footsteps of the great master artists, enjoy the delectable cuisine of France, and stand where heroes fought for freedom on the beaches of Normandy. This and so much more is waiting for you on your French cruise on the Seine!
France, in Every Season. From the warmth of summer to the gentle transitions of fall and spring, this journey through France takes on a distinct character in every season. You may marvel at Rouen Cathedral’s dazzling summer light show, enjoy Paris in Bloom on Île Saint Louis, take part in hands on fragrant flower picking and oil distillation, savor fall wine or enjoy pastry demonstrations inspired by each season’s freshest flavors. Seasonal light and landscapes bring fresh perspectives to vineyard-lined valleys, riverside villages, and France’s celebrated art of living. Enjoy the same route, revealed through the unique lens of the season you set sail.
Itinerary
Welcome to Paris!
At 5 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
J'adore Paris
Wake up in Paris with a free morning to explore on your own or join an exciting optional excursion. This afternoon, join an included guided walk to discover one of Paris's iconic quarters. Later, enjoy a dinner cruise on the Seine with incredible views of the city.
*For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.
LOCAL FAVORITE - As the song goes, we love Paris in the springtime; we love Paris in the fall - but no matter the season, we fall in love anytime we visit the most romantic city in the world. What better way to complete your visit to Paris than with a dinner cruise along the Seine. Gaze at the City of Light from your ship while indulging in French fare and wine. Bon Appétit!
Voyages Extraordinaires
Bid au revoir to Paris and drive to Nantes, situated on the Loire River. Join your Local Guide for a walking tour, which includes sights of the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Ile Feydeau, Place Royale, and Passage Pommeraye. Free time this evening to explore more of the city and perhaps try some of the seafood specialties for dinner.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - The once busy port of Nantes influenced the young Jules Verne, who was born and raised there, to become attracted to the sea and travel. His books about voyage and exploration have been translated all over the world and have led him to often be regarded as the “Father of Science Fiction.” In Nantes he is said to be one of the inspirations for “Les Machines de l'Ile” project that includes a “Marine Worlds Carousel” and a 12-meter-high, mechanical “Great Elephant” that walks around the exhibition area carrying passengers.
Local Spirit
En route to Bordeaux, stop in Cognac for a guided visit of the Château Royale du Cognac and a cognac tasting. Continue to Bordeaux, known as a City of Art and History, but more famously recognized as the Global Capital of Wine, producing around 960 million bottles of wine each year! This evening free time to start discovering the city.
LOCAL FAVORITE - The Dutch started to distill French wines into brandy in the 16th century as a means of preserving their much-treasured purchases for the journey back home. During your visit of the Château Royale discover the history of its inhabitants and the origins of Cognac. Then raise your glass to discover why it is worth all the effort.
Spend Your Day Your Way in Bordeaux
Explore more of Bordeaux with your choice of an included Globus Choice Excursion.
- Cité du Vin Museum and a Glass with a View - Discover the world of wine at Bordeaux' Cite du Vin Museum through fascinating themed exhibits illustrating the history of wine and global wine culture. Drink in the panoramic 360° views of Bordeaux and the Gironde River with a glass of wine in The Belvedere.
- We love you so, Bordeaux! - Love Bordeaux for the legendary wine; love it all the more for its legendary art and history with a guided walking tour to see La Grosse Cloche, the mesmerizing Miroir d'eau (reflecting pool) at the Place de la Bourse, and much more. Taste the sweeter side of Bordeaux with a canelé and dune blanche pastry tasting!
Medieval Battle Sites
Today, journey south to reach Carcassonne, a fortified city that never fails to impress! Take an orientation walk by the ancient battlements. Enjoy free time to explore this delightful medieval town, browse the inviting stores, and discover the local products.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - Visit the ancient city of Carcassonne and see its pre-Roman settlement complete with a medieval castle and dramatic defensive walls. It's described by the UNESCO World Heritage Convention as one of the finest remains of medieval fortifications in Europe. Stunning!
Roman Influences
Your first encounter today is with the warm and colorful region of Provence. Stop in Nimes, once a Roman stronghold, and enjoy an orientation walk to admire the Roman amphitheater and the Maison Carrée, an ancient Roman temple. Continue to Le Baux de Provence to visit an authentic local Olive Oil Mill and sample the oil during a tasting. Reach Marseille, a vivacious city on the Mediterranean Sea. During your free time this evening, why not try some of the local specialties for dinner?
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - One of the Mediterranean's most appreciated and treasured products, olive oil, often referred to as “green gold,” dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations such as the Romans. The olive oil produced at the mill in Le Baux-de Provence has a real local taste, being produced solely from the olives harvested in the surrounding area.
Musical Marches
Join your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour of Marseille, featuring a walk in the city's oldest district – Le Panier, a visit to the Cathédrale La Major and the Old Port, and a scenic drive along the panoramic waterfront road. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in the old port area. This afternoon and evening are yours to continue exploring more of the city.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - This bustling seaport city is a melting pot of cultures. Founded by the Greeks around 600 BC and continuously inhabited since then, it is the oldest city in France. The city's population actively supported the French Revolution, and when 500 volunteers marched on Paris to defend the Revolutionary Government, the song they sang en route became known as “La Marseillaise.” It was later adopted as the French National Anthem.
Beautiful Boulevards
This morning, visit the elegant city of Aix-en-Provence. See the fashionable Cours Mirabeau during an orientation walk of the city. During your free time, why not sample one of the city's most famous products, the delicious calisson pastries? Continue to Nice, the iconic seaside resort on the Côte d'Azur. Enjoy an evening at leisure for independent exploration, or join a sensational optional excursion to Monte Carlo.
ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME - Take advantage of an optional excursion to the Principality of Monaco. Wine and dine in Monte Carlo, the glamorous millionaires' playground. See the Royal Palace and Cathedral as you discover the Old Town. Try your luck at the famous Grand Casino or sit in a local café and watch the world go by.
La Belle
This morning, follow your Local Guide for a walking tour through the old town, characterized by narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares, and Baroque churches. Enjoy free time in the afternoon for a spot of last-minute sightseeing or shopping. This evening, enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - One of Nice's most iconic symbols is “La Chaise Bleu”, the blue chairs that are dotted along the Promenade des Anglais, one of France's most famous boulevards. They provide inspiration for local artists, a place of relaxation for the locals, and taking a photo sitting on one is considered “a must do” for visitors - so take a seat and admire the stunning views of the bay.
It's Time for Your Next Adventure!
The first leg of your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. Enjoy free time to discover the beauty of the spectacular French Riviera, which stretches along France's Mediterranean coast from Toulon to the border of Italy before makign your way to your ship this afternoon.
The “Queen of the French Riviera”
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided Sightseeing in Nice. Discover the narrow, winding streets, and baroque churches of Vieux Nice, the old city—an area which has changed little since the 1700s.
Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.
Join a motorcoach transfer to board your Avalon Suite Ship®
- Classic: En route to Arles, stop in Aix-en-Provence and enjoy a Guided Sightseeing Tour to discover the elegant beauty of Cezanne's hometown.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES
A Brush with Genius
Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.
- Active: Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Discovery: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You'll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.
This afternoon, enjoy free time to shop, stroll, or just relax in a lovely park along Arles' Boulevard des Lices.
EVENING CRUISE TO AVIGNON
The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.
- Active: Discover Avignon by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region.
Explore Avignon on your own for the city's art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON
World History in a Charming French Country Village.
Enjoy a leisurely morning sail to Viviers.
- Active: Walk your way up to Vivier's hilltop Cathedral with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on an afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You'll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.
- Discovery: Later, enjoy a tasting of Local Specialties on board your ship.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO TAIN L'HERMITAGE
A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards.
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.
- Active: Explore Tournon by foot as you follow your Adventure Host for a morning hike in this beautiful town along the Rhone, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour through the scenic Doux Valley aboard the Train des L'Ardeche steam - engine train, OR:
- Classic: Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France's oldest medieval cities. See its 16th-century castle, and Roman ruins between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage.
In the early afternoon cruise to Mâcon.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MÂCON
Wine and Cheese on the Stunning Saône
- Discovery: Travel into the rolling landscapes of the Mâconnais region to learn about its world-famous Chardonnay vineyards and the wines produced here. Enjoy a wine tasting in the cellars of a real medieval castle!
- Discovery: Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship while sailing to Lyon.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON
La Vie En Rose in Lyon.
- Active: Discover Lyon's architectural district by bike with your Adventure Host, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You'll also explore the Old Town with its lively cafés, monuments, and maze of medieval alleyways where history comes to life.
Spend free time biking through Lyon's town squares, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON
On to Paris!
This morning, say goodbye to your crew and board the TGV train to Paris. The rest of the day is free to explore the City of Light at your leisure. Consider browsing Paris' classic shopping avenues and literary cafés for a true Parisian experience.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON
Monet's Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour.
Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.
- Active: Take a Guided Bike Tour through the picturesque Normandy countryside from Vernon to Giverny, ending with a visit to Monet's enchanting gardens and home, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet's charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces*, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy's Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.
- Discovery: While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration.
This afternoon, enjoy a beautiful cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys.
LES ANDELYS: Serenity on the Seine.
- Active: Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart**, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France's most picturesque spots on the Seine.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC
*Monet's House is closed in March and November. During this period, this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche-Guyon and its castle
**This excursion will not be operated in November.
Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine.
- Active: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route—where more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys and churches were built along the Seine.
This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the old seaside town of Honfleur.
- Discovery: Enjoy an onboard Lecture about the days before and after the Normandy landing of D-Day.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC
Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR:
- Classic: Take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial (until the end of May replaced by a visit to the D-Day Museum), the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour to get a taste of authentic tradition in the beautiful region of Normandy. Toast the day with a brandy tasting in Calvados.
EVENING CRUISE TO ROUEN
The Cathedral of Notre-Dame, and a Heroine for France
- Active: Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—home of the martyred Joan of Arc—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CONFLANS
The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV
- Active: Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, OR:
- Classic: Take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison*—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine.
Perhaps, join a Guided Optional Excursion to the Palace of Versailles—home to a succession of French kings.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.
AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO PARIS
*Château de Malmaison is closed the 1st Sunday of each month. On these dates, this excursion will be replaced by a visit to Château de Chantilly.
Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the City of Light.
Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.
- Active: Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:
- Classic: Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided City Tour featuring the iconic sites of Paris, which make the City of Light the most romantic and remarkable city in the world. Stroll through Paris on your own or linger over wine in a literary café on the Left Bank.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PARIS
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.
What is a connected trip?
Our Connected Trips seamlessly combine carefully selected land tours, river cruises and ocean cruises to create more complete and rewarding travel experiences. Whether it's exploring a destination by land and sea, combining a small group adventure with a relaxing cruise, or discovering more of a region through different styles of travel, the possibilities are endless.
Tour Inclusions and Reviews (Days 1-11)
- Guided walking tour in Paris to discover one of Paris's iconic quarters plus [LF] a scenic dinner cruise on the Seine River
- Guided walking tour through the historic streets of Nantes
- [LF] Guided visit of the Chateau Royale du Cognac and cognac tasting
- Globus Choice Excursion in Bordeaux − included in your tour with your choice of a guided walking tour to see city highlights including the Miroir d'eau or a visit to the Cité du Vin Museum
- Orientation walk by the ancient battlements of Carcassonne
- Orientation walk in Nimes to admire the Roman Amphitheater
- Visit an olive oil mill for a tasting of one of Provence's signature regional products
- Guided sightseeing of Marseille includes a walk in the Le Panier district and a visit to the Cathedral La Major, and lunch at a local restaurant
- Orientation walk along the Cours Mirabeau in Aix-en-Provence
- Guided walking tour in Nice's charming Old Town
- 10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, 3 Dinner
- Paris: AC Hotel Paris Porte Maillot (First-Class):
This modern property places guests in the epicenter of the style and energy of the 17th arrondissement, just steps away from the Porte Maillot metro offering easy access to the city's famous attractions. Spacious air-conditioned guestrooms feature pillow top beds with premium duvets, LED TVs, and bathrooms with walk-in showers or baths. The main restaurant serves bistro-style dishes and the vibrant bar offers a happy hour and snacks. There is a fitness center and free Wi-Fi is available throughout. - Paris: Mercure Paris Centre Tour Eiffel (First-Class):
This elegant 405-room hotel is located close the River Seine and Eiffel Tower. Free Wi-Fi access is available in all guestrooms and public areas of the hotel. A light and airy restaurant serves up a range of international cuisine which during the summer months can be enjoyed in the tranquil terrace and gardens. There is also a lounge bar for snacks and drinks as well as a fitness room. - Nantes: Mercure Nantes Centre Grand Hotel (First-Class):
Ideally located in the heart of Nantes, this property is the perfect base for exploring the city's rich heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and lively shopping districts. Just a short walk from iconic attractions such as the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, Passage Pommeraye, and Place Royale, the hotel offers 162 contemporary guestrooms with colorful décor offering Free Wi-Fi internet access. Guests can unwind with a drink in the hotel's welcoming bar or stay active in the fitness area after a day of sightseeing. - Bordeaux: Mercure Bordeaux Chateau Chartrons (First-Class):
Impressive 3-story Turn-of-Century Victorian Hotel with natural stone exterior featuring stone lions & Parisian-style windows. - Carcassonne: Hotel du Roi & Spa (Superior First-Class):
This cleverly designed boutique hotel mixes the modern with the medieval. It is located on the banks of the river Aude within walking distance of the 650-year-old Pont Vieux pedestrian bridge and the medieval city center with its historic landmarks. Each room is air conditioned and includes satellite TV, free Wi-Fi access, safe, minibar, espresso coffee machine and ironing equipment. This property boasts an indoor swimming pool, a 24-hour gym and a pleasant bar offering outdoor seating with views of the Citadel. - Marseille: NH Collection Marseille (Superior First-Class):
The NH Collection Marseille has 176 bright, spacious guestrooms all equipped with a flat-screen TV, Free Wi-Fi internet access, a coffee machine, hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. This property is ideally located with the city's vibrant, picturesque old town, trendy boutiques and Le Vieux Port all just a short walk away. The restaurant provides fine wines and gourmet dishes with local and international recipes, the lobby bar serves refreshing drinks and there is also a sixth floor fitness center. - Nice: NH Nice (First-Class):
NH Nice hotel offers 152 spacious air-conditioned guestrooms, all with chic contemporary décor, including sleek wooden floors and are furnished with a flat-screen TV, a minibar, tea and coffee making facilities as well as Free Wi-Fi internet access. The elegant restaurant serves both local and international dishes with al fresco dining during the spring and summer months on the rooftop terrace which also features an outdoor seasonal swimming pool and bar, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing. The property is located in the eastern part of the city with The old town just a 15-minute walk away.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- For operational reasons, changes to the Paris program cannot be excluded.
- Please note that the Cognac tasting is only available to guests who are 18 years or over.
Don't waste your precious time qeuing up, skip the lines with special VIP access at the must-see sites. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast knowledge of the destination. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great holiday. Savour the flavours of Europe through its regional cuisine. Read more
Globus picks hotels picked on their centralised location, so you'll stay right in the heart of the destination. Read more
Globus' coaches offer one of the most comfortable, stress-free and eco-friendly ways to travel. Read more
Do as the locals do and enjoy unique experiences that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Avalon
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more
With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more
Avalon features all the right inclusions which complement your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more
Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more
Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travellers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more
Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more
Dates & Pricing
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Global Journeys. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
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