From Paris to Normandy, discover iconic places where the splendour of royal castles, the charm of Norman villages, and the vibrancy of historic cities come together. From the Île de la Cité to Rouen, passing through the majestic estates of Versailles and Fontainebleau, each stop is an invitation to wonder. Immerse yourself in Monet’s Impressionist world in Giverny, explore the history of navigation at the MuséoSeine, and stroll through landscapes that have inspired the greatest artists. Between tradition and modernity, let yourself be enchanted by the timeless atmosphere of your paddlewheel boat, where elegance, culture, and serenity blend harmoniously, offering you an unforgettable experience along the water.
Palace of Versailles
Notre Dame
Fontainebleau
Seine, Paris at Night
Itinerary
Day 1 Embark in Paris
Boarding at 6:00pm. Introduction of the crew and welcome cocktail in the lounge. Paris by night cruise (subject to water level conditions).
Day 2 Château de Fontainebleau
Morning cruise towards Melun, where the Seine reveals a panorama transitioning from Paris’s iconic monuments to its peaceful, green banks. Along the way, charming villages, small locks, and forests offer picturesque views. In the afternoon we visit Château de Fontainebleau. This magnificent royal renaissance château was home to 34 kings and 2 emperors for nearly eight centuries. With its 1,500 rooms, it is one of the largest and best-furnished castles in France. A testament to the official and private life of monarchs through the centuries, it perfectly embodies the French art of living. Its beautiful gardens, designed by Le Nôtre, invite you to take a leisurely stroll. Return on board in Saint-Mammès. Dancing evening.
Day 3 Paris
Morning cruise towards Paris. A walking tour of Paris’s birthplace. You will admire the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral (interiors), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. After the devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral has regained its splendour and continues to embody Paris’s history and soul. You will stroll through the charming streets of the island and reach the Sainte-Chapelle (exteriors), famous for its exceptional stained-glass windows that narrate biblical scenes. Your visit will end on the Pont Neuf, the city’s oldest bridge, offering a stunning view of the Seine and its romantic quays.
Day 4 Château de Versailles**
Versailles is one of the most famous and prestigious monuments of 17th-century French art. “It is not a palace, it is an entire city. Superb in its grandeur, superb in its substance,” wrote Charles Perrault about this splendid historical monument, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the Hall of Mirrors to the King’s Apartments, from the Trianon Estate to the breathtaking gardens, every step is an adventure, and everything is a marvel.
Day 5 Caudebec-en-Caux and the MuséoSeine Museum
Now known as Rives-en-Seine, you will explore the historic centre of Caudebec-en-Caux on foot. You will admire the Notre-Dame Church, a masterpiece of 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic architecture, distinguished by its stunning stained-glass windows, spectacular rose window, and delicate sculptures. The visit continues with the MuséoSeine Museum, an interactive space that immerses you in the history of river navigation and life along the Seine. With scale models, exhibitions, and captivating stories, the museum illustrates the vital role of the Seine in the region
Day 6 Rouen
This morning, we visit the “city of a hundred spires”, Rouen. Joan of Arc, Gustave Flaubert, Pierre Corneille, Claude Monet, and William the Conqueror all played a role in making Rouen famous. The city boasts a unique collection of civil and religious monuments spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. Harmoniously blending tradition and modernity, this Norman city is home to both ancient marvels and contemporary street art. Cruise along picturesque Norman villages, where you will discover a region rich in history and culture. Upon arriving in La Roche-Guyon, you will admire its castle perched on a rocky spur overlooking the river.
Day 7 La Roche-Guyon
Nestled between the Seine and a chalk cliff, La Roche-Guyon is one of the most beautiful villages in France. You will visit its château, a fascinating blend of medieval and classical architecture, with its fortified tower perched atop the cliff, offering breathtaking views of the valley. You will explore its historic rooms and stroll through the French-style gardens designed by Le Nôtre, featuring vegetable patches and medicinal plants. Finally, you will wander through the village’s picturesque streets, full of history and bucolic charm. In the afternoon we will cruise towards Paris. Tonight is our gala evening!
Day 8 Departure
After breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00am, we make our way home.
Pricing
MS Waydelich
Premium Ship
7 Nights Inclusive
Twin from £1799pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £650
Inclusions
• Return short sea crossing
• Porterage
• Captain’s welcome cocktail reception
• Complimentary drinks (water, juice, soft drinks, tea, coffee, beer, most spirits and house wine)
• 3 course lunch (set menu) on 6 days
• 3 course dinner (set menu) on 6 nights
• Gala evening with 4 course dinner (set menu) on 1 night
• On-board entertainment, activities, informative speakers & performers
• Paris by Night Cruise (water levels dependant)
• Half day excursion to Château de Fontainebleau
• Half day excursion of Paris including guided walking tour & admission to Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Half day excursion to Château de Versailles**
• Half day excursion to Caudebec-en-Caux and the MuséoSeine Museum
• Half day excursion to Rouen
• Half day excursion to La Roche-Guyon
Our itinerary is based on your leaving your coach in Paris and all excursions include coach hire, however if you would like to use your own coach or exclude any of the excursions, please let us know at the time of quotation.
** Please note Château de Versailles is closed on Mondays and will be replaced with Château de Malmaison
