Grand Tour of France – Provence, Paris & River Seine Cruise

Arrive in Aix-en-provence and check into your hotel, where we stay for seven nights.

Enjoy a welcome drink at the hotel on arrival. 

This morning, we take walking tour accompanied by an expert local guide who’ll show us what inspired the city’s favourite son, Paul Cézanne, to produce numerous paintings in and around Aix. Beautiful Aix-en-Provence seamlessly combines Parisian-style chic with village-like gentility. Founded as a spa town by the Romans, it became the capital of Provence during the Middle Ages and evolved into a major educational and artistic hub.

Aix is known as the ‘City of a Thousand Fountains’ and the tranquil sound of running water accompanies us down colourful boulevards, through fine squares and labyrinthine alleyways. 

This afternoon we depart Aix to visit one of Provence’s organic wineries that is committed to producing its wines in an environmentally responsible way. Discover how these crisp, delicately perfumed wines are produced and then enjoy a glass or two with lunch against the delightful backdrop of this charming wine estate. 

After breakfast we head to the Camargue, the delta of the great Rhône River and a beguiling landscape of flat saltwater marshland teeming with around 400 species of birds – including remarkable pink flamingos. This designated national park is also home to the region’s iconic black bulls and an ancient breed of white horse, some of which you may spot being ridden by the Camargue’s famous ‘cowboys’.

We arrive at the small port town of Saintes Maries de la Mer and take a guided boat trip to explore the natural splendour of this wetland environment – don’t forget to bring your binoculars! 

We then make the short trip to extraordinary Arles, a prosperous Roman regional capital from the 1st century AD. You’ll marvel at the city’s impressive UNESCO-listed monuments on a fascinating walking tour, taking in the incredibly well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, the theatre built by the Emperor Augustus and the Forum, once the city’s heart.

There’s free time to spend in Arles, perhaps to seek out locations associated with Vincent Van Gogh, who spent 14 months here from early 1888. It was his most prolific period and, inspired by Arles and the light and beauty of the Provençal countryside, he produced around 300 works, including The Café Terrace at Night, The Sower and, of course, Sunflowers. 

This morning, we travel north to the stunning Luberon Mountains.  Its natural beauty has inspired writers and artists throughout the ages.  

The region’s pure natural light has always attracted artists, while the hilltops are crowned by enchanting villages that, at a distance, appear frozen in medieval times, yet are alive with vibrant bistros, rustic restaurants and markets selling fabulous local produce. The landscape in this designated Regional Nature Park changes dramatically from flat plains dotted with olive and peach groves to sloping vineyards and then, higher up, rows of lavender whose fragrance mingles with pine and wild herbs to give the unmistakable aroma of rural Provence.

Today we visit nearby Avignon, one of Europe’s most historic cities. Its destiny changed early in the 14th century with the exile of the Pope’s court from Rome. Vast wealth poured in to build churches, convents and elegant townhouses, but most of all the incredible Papal Palace. We have time to visit this imposing building which from the outside resembles a citadel rising from living rock flanked by turrets more than 150 feet high. Alternatively, there is the Petit Palais Museum which houses an excellent collection of more than 1,000 paintings.  

We also visit the Pont du Gard, an amazing Roman aqueduct, wider than the Thames in London and one of the wonders of the ancient world. We then return to your hotel in Aix.  

Tonight, we dine out at a traditional local restaurant.  

A free day to spend as you wish in Aix. Wander along Cours Mirabeau, Aix’s elegant main street, and peel off into the maze of lanes to discover tiny squares and a myriad fountain.

Alternatively visit the superb Musée Granet and its collection of works by Cézanne, Degas, Picasso, Matisse and Monet, or the fascinating Museum of Natural History where you can view a collection of dinosaur eggs unearthed on the slopes of nearby Mont Sainte-Victoire. 

Today, you'll venture to the breathtaking coastline and the scenic fishing village of Cassis, a gem of the Provençal Riviera. Situated in a stunning bay, this charming town enchants visitors with its colourful cottages, a quaint harbour dotted with boats, and a sandy bench all watched over by an imposing medieval fortress. Once a retreat for illustrious figures like Winston Churchill and Virginia Woolf, Cassis remains a haven of artistic inspiration. See the highlights of this quaint township aboard the adorable, road-touring Petit Train.  

For lunch, treat yourself to freshly caught seafood at one of the delightful waterfront restaurants. In the afternoon, set sail on a boat trip to explore the Massif des Calanques. Marvel at the dramatic white cliffs, striking rock formations, and the seabirds that thrive in this rugged, natural wonderland.  

On our return this afternoon we will visit a stunning lavender farm on the outskirts of Aix. If we are fortunate enough to visit whilst the flowers are in bloom you will enjoy the heady scents and sight of rows of vibrant blue flowers on a walk through the fields. We will discover more about this typical Provençal plant and its cleansing, soothing properties, partaking in a soap customisation workshop in the grounds on this family estate.  

We then return to your hotel in Aix. Tonight, we dine at a renowned local restaurant. Begin the evening with a refreshing aperitif before savouring the exquisite flavours of the gourmet menu. Freshly prepared seasonal ingredients promise a truly memorable Provencal feast and our gastronomic experience will be completed with a selection of local wines.      

After breakfast, we travel to Paris and transfer to the ship moored on the River Seine in the heart of Paris.  

The friendly crew will welcome you on board, helping you settle into your spacious and exquisitely furnished accommodation – where you’ll immediately feel at home.

This evening you enjoy your first sumptuous dinner, served in the ship’s restaurant. 

During the night our ship slips her mooring and, as you enjoy breakfast, the landscape passes by serenely and you quickly get used to this luxurious sightseeing experience. Rounding a sweeping bend so typical of the Seine, we reach the town of Mantes-la-Jolie with its imposing church – so large and architecturally impressive it could be a cathedral – while straight ahead is a medieval stone bridge. The central section of the bridge was destroyed during the Second World War and never repaired – it’s the first of many poignant reminders that this region of France has been a battleground for centuries.

Beyond Mantes we encounter another typical feature of the Seine as it flows seaward – picturesque chalk cliffs, almost resembling a giant’s teeth. Beautiful villages like La Roche Guyon slide by, surrounded by bocage countryside of lush pastures and high hedgerows, countless cider orchards, half-timbered barns and ancient wooden farmhouses. We’re truly in the heart of one of France’s historic and stunningly attractive dukedoms – Normandy. 

While you’re enjoying your first delicious lunch, the captain has skilfully berthed at Les Andelys, a small town dominated by one of the most spectacular sights along the entire valley – Château Gaillard. This afternoon we discover the story behind this remarkable castle. Château Gaillard guards the apex of the river bend and was built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th-century to defend Rouen from the French.

Besieged many times during the turbulent history of northern France, Château Gaillard is now one of the most dramatic ruins in the region. 

We awake in Rouen, Normandy’s capital, one of Europe’s finest medieval cities and scene of many momentous events over the centuries. Pride of place on our guided tour of the city belongs to its stunning Gothic cathedral, which was immortalised by the great Impressionist Claude Monet in a series of 28 paintings showing the facade at varying times of day and in different weather conditions. Briefly becoming the world’s tallest building when the soaring spire was added in the 19th century, the cathedral is also notable for the recumbent statue reputedly containing the heart of Richard the Lionheart.

Rouen’s beautifully tangled alleyways are a revelation, lined with antique shops, tasteful boutiques and, of course, countless restaurants serving exceptional local cuisine emphasising the country’s outstanding gastronomic heritage. The Place du Vieux-Marché is one of the city’s most poignant spots; a large cross marks the point where the ‘Maid of Orléans’ Joan of Arc was burned at the stake for her beliefs. 

During another superb lunch we cast off to navigate through yet more twists and turns, cliffs and a landscape of forest-covered hills that are designated as areas of outstanding natural beauty and sanctuaries for diverse wildlife, including deer and wild boar. Another highlight of the valley soon greets us – the ethereal ruins of Jumièges Abbey. Founded in the 7th century, it was consecrated in the presence of William the Conqueror and was an important political and religious centre until it was sacked in the 16th century.

Should you wish, why not arrange to visit the wheelhouse, the Captain is always delighted to explain to those interested how the highly sophisticated navigation and safety systems operate. In the late afternoon, we moor in the pretty town of Caudebec-en-Caux.  

After dinner, step back in time with the Popcorn Ladies, a talented trio evoking the charm of the 1940s. Inspired by the Andrews Sisters, they revive beloved jazz swing standards that captivated soldiers during World War II.  

Dressed in authentic WWII-inspired outfits, the Popcorn Ladies will transport you to a golden era of music with classic hits. Get ready to swing the night away with their captivating renditions of wartime classics and unforgettable melodies! 

After breakfast, you'll be ready for a full-day tour, with a choice to visit the landing beaches, or taste some of Normandy’s typical produce.  

Longues sur Mer battery and the D-Day beaches

Our journey begins as we depart from Caudebec, approaching Bayeux. Along the way, we stop at Giberville for a brief comfort break, giving us all a chance to stretch our legs before continuing. When we arrive in Bayeux, we have some free time to explore the town. Those of us who are interested can visit the magnificent Bayeux Cathedral.

After our time in Bayeux, we continued our journey to Pointe du Hoc, a historic site that played a significant role in the D-Day landings. Here, we have the opportunity to take in the incredible views before heading to the Omaha Beach Memorial. This location marks the scene of the most intense confrontation during the Allies' D-Day assault, where forces landed in Normandy as part of their effort to free occupied Europe. By the conclusion of June 6, 1944, approximately 34,000 Allied personnel had disembarked on this single beach, with around 770 American soldiers losing their lives to enemy fire. During our time here, we have some free time to explore, and lunch is at leisure.  

Next, we make our way to the Longues sur Mer Battery, where we stop for a quick photo opportunity. A prominent historical landmark situated along the Normandy coastline in France, dating back to World War II. It was an integral part of the German Atlantic Wall, designed to safeguard the coastline from potential Allied attacks. This site contains four massive coastal artillery pieces, strategically arranged to fire at approaching naval vessels. We’ll wander through the well-preserved area, which includes sturdy concrete bunkers, gun placements, and stunning vistas of the English Channel.  

Finally, we head to Ver sur Mer and begin our return to Caudebec, passing by Pegasus Bridge and arriving in the late afternoon. 

Alternatively, today you could embark on a tasting tour of Normandy.

Our first stop is a local cheese dairy, passed down from father to son, which specialises in the production of Livarot, Pont-l’Eveque, Camembert de Normandie, and Neufchatel. These are all Protected Designations of Origin cheese, making this one of the only places in the world that can make them. After learning more about the cheese-making methods, we'll get to taste these delicious varieties for ourselves, savouring the authentic flavours of traditional cheese.

Next, we'll head to Lisieux, a venerable medieval town in the heart of the Calvados region, which gave its name to the popular local brandy distilled from apple cider. Popular with Catholic Pilgrams, here you'll have free time to explore the extravagant 20th-century hillside basilica or its medieval cathedral. Perhaps, you'll simply enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of the restaurants and cafés.

We'll then travel to a family-run estate, located by the sea, to learn more about two of Normandy's most iconic drinks - cider and calvados (apple brandy). The farm’s 25 hectares of orchards are home to apple and pear trees enabling the production of vinegar, apple juice, cider, pommeau, calvados and pure apple brandies. After learning the secrets of production, we'll have the pleasure of sampling some of their produce for ourselves before returning to our ship in Caudebec.

As we make our way back to the ship, thoughts turn again to the culinary delights awaiting you in the refined comfort of the ship’s restaurant.

Please note - lunch is not provided on either excursion.

Honfleur is often regarded as the most picturesque spot on the northern French coast, and after breakfast we make the short journey to this delightful town and enjoy a guided tour. Its old harbour, sheltering both fishing boats and luxurious pleasure craft, is beautifully preserved and surrounded by a perfect waterfront of pastel-coloured 16th- to 18th-century houses, many converted to seafood restaurants.

Watch the talented artists capturing the captivating views along the waterfront, while the intricate maze of streets behind is also well worth discovering. The eaves of the tall half-timbered buildings almost touch, and on the streets below is an abundance of traditional shops selling antiques, books and fine foods. Honfleur’s most famous son is Eugene Boudin, one of the forerunners of Impressionism and a friend of Claude Monet, who also painted the harbour many times.

Choose to return to the ship for lunch, or maybe you wish to explore Honfleur a little longer and sample the seafood in this coastal town with lunch at leisure. 

This afternoon, we slip our mooring and begin our passage back upstream, retracing the river’s winding course, its huge variety of wildlife, enchanting scenery and forests, all reflected in differing colours in the sparkling waters. Villages slip by, birds glide on thermals rising from the surrounding cliffs, it’s an ideal opportunity to join new friends for a chat. Squeeze in a spot of reading on the Sun Deck or simply recline, letting the gentle breezes lull you into a relaxing doze.

By this stage of your cruise, you’ll be totally unwound, and modern life will seem very distant. 

One of the great delights of river cruising is the magical sensation of waking up in a different place from where you were the night before. This morning the ship has moored in delightful Vernon, and we take the short drive to Giverny to visit Monet’s Garden and house.

The artist himself called his garden his ‘most beautiful masterpiece’, and it’s certainly one of the world’s most photographed and painted, ideally viewed in the delicate morning light. In the Japanese-inspired water garden, shaded by great weeping willows and surrounded by bamboo, rhododendrons and azaleas, is the lily pond where he painted his extraordinary Les Nymphéas (Water Lilies) series. There’s ample time to wander here, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere while marvelling at the light bouncing off foliage of every hue and the magical reflections dancing off the water. 

After another leisurely lunch on board, you can explore Vernon’s quaint buildings before embarking on our cruise to Paris. As the sun sets on the shimmering Seine and the Norman countryside recedes into dusk, it’s a perfect time to reflect on your few days cruising among the creamy chalk cliffs and charming villages of this splendid river.

Tonight enjoy a truly memorable occasion – the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant.

As we arrive in Paris this morning, you have a choice of two tours: a panoramic coach tour or a more active walking tour. 

For a sightseeing tour of the capital, one of the world's most iconic cities, choose our panoramic coach tour. We'll see many of the outstanding monuments Paris has to offer - including the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Trocadéro, the Musee D'Orsay and much more. 

A great choice for the more active, our walking tour of Paris allows you to take a closer look at some of the city's sights. Our 4km walk takes us through Île de la Cité & Marais Quarter, from Place des Vosges - the oldest planned square in Paris - to Palais Royal, the former French royal palace. En route, we'll see Paris' city hall - Hôtel de Ville, the UNESCO-protected Notre-Dame, the world-famous Louvre, and more.

Whichever tour you choose, you'll have the option to return to the ship for lunch, or you are also welcome to stay in the city and relax in one of the city's many cosy cafés. 

After lunch, your afternoon will be free to enjoy Paris and the many attractions of this world-renowned city. With good local transport to get you around, you can explore at ease and tick a few items off your bucket list as you go. You could see the grand Place de la Concorde, the largest square in the city, which shows off 18th-century French architecture at its best, visit Galleries Lafayette - the historic high-end department store - or the Musée d'Orsay, home of the world's finest Impressionist art collection.

Alternatively, you may wish to simply stroll along the Champs Elysees, enjoy a walk in the Tuileries Gardens or perhaps wander through the café lined streets of the city.

Paris is everything you imagine it to be – romantic, inspiring, vibrant – even outrageous – but best of all, Paris is unique, a fitting finale to a wonderful cruise.

After dinner tonight, there's the chance to enjoy more famous French melodies and songs performed by a professional accordionist.