Paris To Normandy River Cruise: What To Expect
As a cruise line, Viking started off as a river cruise line . They almost singlehandedly transformed the river cruise industry in Europe. With their award-winning longships, designed for ultimate maneuverability on Europes meandering waterways, theyre able to offer cozy comfort, but also immersive hands-on experiences.
In fact, its that immersive travel aspect that distinguishes Viking from other major cruise lines. Their premier goal is to offer The Thinking Persons Cruise®, as they themselves call it. This means that a Viking River cruise from Paris to Normandy means diving headfirst into the French culture and history.
This is achieved through a variety of on-board and on-shore activities. From a well-stocked library on the ship and presentations by guest lecturers to visits to renowned museums, wine tastings and much more, the Viking experience is meant to involve all your senses.
Additionally, Viking distinguishes itself in the river cruise industry because it does not do what other major cruise lines do do. There are, for example, no casinos, no photographers, no inside staterooms, no umbrella drinks and no formal nights, Immersive in-depth experiences that trigger all senses are what Viking stands for, which is also very apparent on the amazing Paris and the Heart of Normandy Viking River Cruise.
Viking River Cruise Paris To Normandy
- Europe
- River
Paris and Normandy are hubs of history in the north of France, veritable bastions of the vibrant and distinct French culture. These are the places where numerous history-changing events took place, from the Storming of the Bastille to D-Day. So, going on a Paris to Normandy river cruise is a journey through world history.
Of course, youll also have plenty of opportunities to indulge in delicious French cuisine and see some of the countrys most iconic landmarks.
Paris To Normandy River Cruise Itinerary
Our Scenic Gem river cruise starts in Paris.
In the city of lights, there are many non-touristy things to do beyond the Eiffel Tower.
Were content, however, to simply walk until we can walk no more taking in some of the best Paris arrondissements.
Scenic Gem
Then we cruise to the Normandy coast, past chalk cliffs and gently rolling banks of green, squeezing through several locks, before cruising back to Paris.
Along the way, we stop to see centuries-old castles and cathedrals, blooming gardens, artist studios and off-the-beaten-path museums.
The sights and scenery remind us that the Seine valley is the cradle of Gothic France, as well as the birthplace of Impressionism.
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Bicycling To The Victor Hugo Museum
We perhaps have the most fun on the e-bikes .
At Caudebec-en-Caux, we join the guided bike ride to the Victor Hugo Museum in the pretty hamlet of Villequier.
Our short ride is easy, thanks partly to the flat new Seine Valley Cycle Route, which runs some 75 miles alongside the Seine River.
Scenic Gem
The museum was once the family holiday home of a wealthy ship-owner whose son married Victor Hugos daughter, Leopoldine.
Tragically, Leopoldine and her husband drowned in a sailing accident nearby on the Seine, shortly after their wedding.
Today, the rooms of the house decorated in period furnishings contain letters, photographs and manuscripts illustrating the lives of the famous French writer, the doomed young couple and other family members.
And who is that lovely young woman with the come-hither eyes? Ah, thats Hugos mistress, his lover for 50 years.
After visiting the elegant riverside museum, we leave the group and continue pedaling on the river path.
We push the e-boost on the bikes to the max, laughing as we ride faster than weve ever bicycled before until hunger drives us back to the ship for a barbeque lunch on deck.
Save $500 On Romantic Rhine With Oberammergau
Save $500 on Romantic Rhine with Oberammergau
Promotion Details
$500Must Book By Sun, Jul 31, 2022
*Book a select 2022 Avalon Waterways Romantic Rhine with Oberammergau river cruise to receive $250 off per person on the cruise/land price. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between July 20, 2021 and July 31, 2022 for travel at select times in 2022. Promotional discount will apply to Groups of 8 or more who provide their Group Block Deposit within the promotion’s booking dates and will apply to all individual members of the Group until the due date of the passenger names/non-refundable individual deposits.. Offer reliant on space availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Offer combinable only with Peace of Mind Credit. Applies to new 2022 bookings only and will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply see Travel Terms & Conditions for details. Offer applies to participating GFOB offices only. PRMW0899
Save $1,000 on select 2022 Oberammergau river cruises
Mention Promo Code: PT2912
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Paris And The Heart Of Normandy Cruise Itinerary
This Paris to Normandy cruise by Viking River Cruises is an 8-day round-trip journey across northwestern France. Youll cruise along the Seine River, arguably Frances most famous river, on the way celebrating everything from art and architecture to food and history in one of the worlds most spectacular countries.
Below, youll find a brief overview of this Viking River Cruise from Paris to Normandy, an itinerary that outlines the days and their respective ports. Note, also, that there are several optional excursions, activities and tours available in all eight ports.
Wake Up In The City You Were Just Dreaming About
From Paris to Rouen, Caudebec-en-Caux, Les Andelys and Vernon to Paris.
The Eiffel Tower, the way of life or the art? You could argue for hours about what it is that makes Paris so special. But one thing everyone agrees on is that Paris is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. And when seen from the water, its even more beautiful. The banks of the Seine, the rivers many bridges and all the little stories about them are incredibly romantic. The Seine seems to have adopted the Parisians laissez-faire attitude to life as it gently flows towards Normandy. The landscape here which was named after the men of the North, the Vikings, who landed here around 1,200 years ago is extremely pretty. Blossoming meadows and dense forests guide the river towards Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake. The many artefacts documenting the 2,000-year history of this city are highly interesting. Its easy to see why Normandy has been depicted in so many works of art. You too will reach for your camera more often than usual, regardless of whether you visit Claude Monets magical garden or the gorgeous Château Bizy, also known as Little Versailles. And everywhere you go, youre tempted by culinary delights. In France, cheese is revered. Sample as much of it as you can, and find out why.
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Save $1000 On Select 2022 Oberammergau River Cruises
Save $1,000 on select 2022 Oberammergau river cruises
Promotion Details
$1000Must Book By Fri, Sep 30, 2022
*Book a select 2022 Avalon Waterways Romantic Rhine with Oberammergau river cruise to receive $500 off per person on the cruise/land price. Booking must be made, under deposit and discount applied between July 20, 2021 and September 30, 2022 for travel at select times in 2022. Promotional discount will apply to Groups of 8 or more who provide their Group Block Deposit within the promotion’s booking dates and will apply to all individual members of the Group until the due date of the passenger names/non-refundable individual deposits. Offer reliant on space availability and may be withdrawn at any time. Offer combinable only with Peace of Mind Credit. Applies to new 2022 bookings only and will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply see Travel Terms & Conditions for details. Offer applies to participating GFOB offices only. PRMW0901
$399 Air + save $1,000 on select 2022 Europe river cruises
Mention Promo Code: PT2960
$399 Air + save $1,000 on select 2022 Europe river cruises
Promotion Details
$399$1000Must Book By Sun, Jul 31, 2022
$1,000 Off + $399 Air on select 2022 Europe River Cruises
Mention Promo Code: PT2961
$1000 Off + $399 Air On Select 2022 Europe River Cruises
$1,000 Off + $399 Air on select 2022 Europe River Cruises
Promotion Details
$1000$399Must Book By Sun, Jul 31, 2022
*Book a select 2022 Avalon Waterways Europe river cruise to receive $500 off per person on the cruise/land or cruise only price. Booking must be made, under deposit, and discount applied between January 4 and July 31, 2022 for travel for select cruises in 2022. Not applicable to custom tours and charters. Not applicable on TBA space. Promotional discount will apply to Groups of 8 or more who provide their Group Block Deposit within the promotion’s booking dates and will apply to all individual members of the Group until the due date of the passenger names/non-refundable individual deposits. Offer reliant on space availability at time of booking and may be withdrawn at any time. Combinable with $399 Airfare promotion and Welcome Back Credit, Peace of Mind Credit and select account specific offers only. Applies to new 2022 bookings only and offer will not be applied to pre-existing bookings. Full cancellation penalties will apply. Additional restrictions may apply see Travel Terms & Conditions for details. May be withdrawn at any time. Offer applies to participating GFOB offices only. PRMW0924
Save $2000 on Groups of 8 or More
Mention Promo Code: PT2962
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Benedictine Mystery On Our River Cruise From Paris To Normandy
In the French town of Fecamp, Scenic has organized a special dinner ashore at the Benedictine Palace for guests sailing on the Scenic Gem cruise ship.
And so, dressed up and with champagne glasses in hand, we wander through the grand palace rooms with its flamboyant arches and stained glass windows. A trio of classical musicians plays in the background.
After admiring Le Grands collection of historic books and art, we dine in a chandelier-lit hall on lobster, duck pate and lamb charlotte followed by generous pourings of Benedictine, of course.
And the mystery?
No one really knows if Benedictine can be traced back to the 16th century monk. True or not, the mystery shrouding Benedictine ensured the success of the after-dinner drink.
Scenic Gem
All of Scenics river cruises include an added special enrich experience like this, not offered on similar cruises by other lines.
But really, so many of our activities are memorable in their own way that its hard to flag our dinner at the Palace as the premier experience.
Booking Terms & Conditions
PRICE GUARANTEE: Once you have paid in full for your trip, you are safe from any additional charges. Airfare increases, currency fluctuations, increased fuel surcharges, new government taxesnone of these will apply to you.
20222024 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR SAVINGS: Offer valid on bookings made from July 1-31, 2022. Special fares plus FREE international air valid on 20222023 departures of Grand European Tour and European Sojourn 2023 departures of Capitals of Eastern Europe. Airfares vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise/tour offer. All prices are in CAD dollars and for CA residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. Book by July 31, 2022. 2022: Pay in full by July 31, 2022 or at time of booking if within 90 days of departure. 2023: Pay in full by September 30, 2022. 2024: Pay in full by Decemeber 31, 2022. Offers expires July 31, 2022.
AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS: Offer expires July 31, 2022.
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Following In Freedom’s Footsteps On The D
Their names Juno, Omaha, Gold, Utah, Sword bring back visions of that fateful day June 6, 1944, known forever as “D-Day” when Allied forces converged on these Normandy beaches to change the tide of World War II, and begin the Allied liberation of Western Europe from Nazi Germany’s control. To walk on these beaches today 75 years later with a local expert… explore Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach… and pay your respects at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, final resting place of 9,300 Allied troops… is to enjoy the freedom of the time and place selflessly given by the men who gave their lives for it here. It’s hard not to be humbled in their presence.
About Scenic River Cruises France
Ask around about the most deluxe river cruises in Europe and youll hear Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, an Australian company, often touted as the creme de la creme.
The company offers several Scenic river cruises in France on the Seine River in Normandy and in Bordeaux on the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde Rivers.
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History And Elegance In The Heart Of London
Welcome to The Savoy, a place where history and iconic elegance mingles with new-world sophistication. A world-famous name, celebrated for sublime service, and graced by dignitaries and the global jet-set where Art Deco rubs shoulders with English Edwardian. The Savoy stands proudly on the north bank of the River Thames. The ballet, opera and theatre of vibrant Covent Garden are just steps away, while the City, world-renowned museums and galleries, and the designer shopping of Knightsbridge and Mayfair within easy reach. It’s the definitive destination in the heart of London.
Start Sooner Stay Longer
Avalon makes it easy to experience vacation your way with seamless extension options before and after your cruise. YourWay offers added nights in a selection of locales. From Budapest to Bucharest, you can spend a little or a lot more time getting to know more on shore with YourWay custom itineraries.
available cruise options
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8 Day River Cruise Paris to Paris
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Paris to Normandy with 3 Nights in Venice & 3 Nights in Rome
14 Day River Cruise Paris to Rome
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Let’s Go Golfing In Tretat
It would be hard to find a more spectacular location than Étretats clifftop course, which is ranked as one of the best in France. Originally laid out in 1908 and substantially redesigned in the 1990s, it offers a multitude of challenges: Two nine-hole loops take players right to the cliffs edge, the wind can be a serious challenge in and of itself, and the 10th through 14th holes offer formidable tests of a golfers skill. Spend the morning on the course, lunch on your own in charming Étretat and explore the seaside village that so many artists, including Monet, rendered in paint, or return to the ship for lunch and a leisurely afternoon onboard.
Note: Golf excursion is open to a limited number of golfers. Club entrance and use of golf clubs are provided for usage during your excursion.
Enjoy Paris & Norman Treasures
Dock in the heart of Paris, admiring views of the Eiffel Tower and a replica of the Statue of Liberty from your ship. Experience history firsthand at the Normandy beaches and delight in Rouens Gothic architecture. Explore Giverny and the charming house and gardens where Claude Monet lived and worked, the setting inspiring many of his masterpieces. This voyage celebrates history, art, food and customs in Frances most alluring urbane and pastoral settings.
Dock in the heart of Paris, admiring views of the Eiffel Tower and a replica of the Statue of Liberty from your ship. Experience history firsthand at the Normandy beaches and delight in Rouens Gothic architecture. Explore Giverny and the charming house and gardens where Claude Monet lived and worked, the setting inspiring many of his masterpieces. This voyage celebrates history, art, food and customs in Frances most alluring urbane and pastoral settings.
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Luxury Is In The Details
Scenic doesnt flaunt its stuff.
Friends who also recently sailed with the Scenic cruise line thought their ship didnt look as luxurious as other river ships they saw.
And its true.
Theres no gilt or glitz to be seen on the Scenic Gem cruise ship. The décor is simple and clean. Very minimalist, in fact. Wed call it spare luxury.
But youll find strong mini-reading lights above the bed, umbrellas and walking sticks in the closet, a spacious glass shower thats easy to step into and loads of lovely LOccitane toiletries.
Premium drinks and cocktails are also available whenever you want. One of our favorites was the Breakfast Martini with vodka, Grand Marnier, orange marmalade and lime juice but we didnt really drink it at breakfast!
Quicksilver service is right at your fingertips too. The food is excellent too.
And its a luxury not to have any ship announcements .
Do As The Locals Do Le De La Cit And Latin Quarter
As a true Parisian would, take the Métro to the Île de la Cité and the great cathedral of Notre Dame. Henry IV said that Paris was worth a Mass when he converted to Catholicismand he made that conversion official here, in the center of Paris. In fact, Notre Dame is officially the center of France facing its main entrance is Kilometer Zero, the location from which distances in France are traditionally measured. An expert in the history and architecture of this magnificent cathedral will be your guide. Begun in the 12th century and finished about 200 years later, Notre Dame is one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in Europe.
After youve admired Notre Dames stained glass, flying buttresses and idiosyncratic gargoyles, cross the Archbishops Bridge to the Left Bank and the Latin Quarter. Wander through the narrow streets where for centuries artists, writers, philosophers and the Sorbonnes students have lived and worked, argued politics, painted, sipped absinthe and lived the bohemian lifestyle for which the district is famous. Matisse, Picasso, Rimbaud and Sartre, as well as American expatriate writers Hemingway and Fitzgerald, are just a few of the notables who made this district home. Take some time to meander through the areas little squares, perusing the shop windows and perhaps relaxing with a drink at a classic café.
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