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Cruising along the Seine was a dream we had held close for years. An upscale river cruise through France, from Paris to Normandy, was not only an exciting escape but a deeply personal journey. My WWII book had been released earlier that year, and Normandy held particular significance. My husband’s unit had played a pivotal role in providing cover during the D-Day landings, and the chance to visit Omaha Beach and other historic sites ourselves was an opportunity of a lifetime.
We embarked on this adventure with Avalon Cruises, known for their luxurious ships and curated itineraries, excited to explore the French countryside while delving into history, art, and culture. Here’s a day-by-day reflection on our unforgettable journey.
Day 1: Welcome to France – Bonjour, Paris!
Our journey began in the world’s most romantic city—Paris. We arrived early, knowing that we had the day to explore before boarding our Suite Ship® in the evening.
Paris has a way of sweeping you off your feet from the moment you arrive, and with a croissant and café au lait in hand, we spent the morning leisurely strolling along the Seine. The views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral only heightened our anticipation for the cruise ahead.
By 5 pm, we were ready to board our floating home for the next eight days. The ship was nothing short of luxurious, with floor-to-ceiling windows in our suite offering a constant view of the scenic riverbank. That night, we indulged in a fancy dinner featuring French cuisine as the ship sailed from Paris toward Vernon, setting the stage for the wonders to come.
Day 2: Monet’s Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour
We awoke in the picturesque town of Vernon. After a delightful breakfast on board, we headed out for a classic excursion to Giverny, the home of Claude Monet. His gardens were a living painting, vibrant with colors and reflections that mirrored his famous works. Walking through his home and around the water gardens, we felt like we had stepped into an Impressionist masterpiece. Monet’s legacy was tangible in every petal, every lily pad.
For those seeking a taste of history, the alternative classic excursion led to Bizy Castle, often referred to as “Normandy’s Versailles.” The grandeur of its courtyards and water gardens spoke of a bygone era of French aristocracy.
Back on the ship, we were treated to a traditional French lunch of authentic crêpes, followed by a delightful pastry demonstration. As the afternoon sun softened, we sailed towards Les Andelys, a charming town on the Seine. Here, we embarked on an active excursion—a hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard, once the fortress of King Richard the Lionheart. The views of the river from the top were breathtaking, a reward for the climb.
Day 3: Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine
The next day, our cruise took us deeper into Normandy, northern France, where we explored the Normandy Abbeys Route, an iconic stretch of the Seine lined with over 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustinian abbeys. Our guided excursion revealed centuries of architectural beauty and monastic history, with stories of devotion that have survived the passage of time.
That afternoon, we had the option of visiting the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Known for its artistic heritage and scenic harbor, it was a peaceful retreat from the river’s course, perfect for wandering through its cobblestone streets. By nightfall, we returned to the ship for dinner, watching the French countryside slip by as we sailed to Caudebec.
Day 4: Heroic Bravery on Normandy Beaches
Today was the day we had been waiting for—the chance to step onto the hallowed ground of the Normandy beaches, where history was forever changed. As we joined the guided tour of Normandy’s WWII landing sites, the gravity of the events that unfolded here was palpable. Omaha Beach, with its solemn beauty, stretched before us, and visiting the American Cemetery was a moment of reflection on the sacrifices made.
Standing at Pointe du Hoc, we could see the craters and bunkers left behind, a testament to the fierce battle fought here. For me, it was personal. Having written extensively about WWII, this was an emotional experience—seeing with my own eyes where my husband’s unit had played a part in the liberation of Europe. The bravery and resilience of the soldiers felt more profound than ever.
That evening, as the cruise ship came alive with live entertainment, a fitting tribute to the heroes we had honored that day. As we sailed toward Rouen, France, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to connect history with place.
Day 5: The Cathedral of Our Lady and a Heroine for France
Rouen greeted us with its medieval charm, a city rich in history and culture. Our guided walking tour led us through the winding streets to the site where Saint Joan of Arc was martyred. The city’s Notre-Dame Cathedral stood tall, its Gothic spires a beacon of faith and resilience. The Astronomical Clock, a marvel of 16th-century craftsmanship, chimed as we wandered through the medieval quarter, its half-timbered houses adding to the city’s old-world charm.
We ended the day with a quiet cruise toward Conflans, France, savoring the peaceful flow of the Seine.
Day 6: The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV
Today’s excursions took us through the artistic and historical heart of France. In Auvers-sur-Oise, we followed in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, visiting the places that inspired his final works and paying respects at his resting place. Walking through the village where he spent his last days, we felt a deep connection to the creativity and struggle that shaped his genius.
The alternative tour took travelers through the grandeur of Bonaparte and Louis XIV’s France, exploring the châteaux and landscapes that shaped the nation’s monarchy. By evening, we sailed back to Paris, our journey coming full circle.
Day 7: Cafés, Cathedrals, and Canvases in the City of Light
Our final full day in Paris was dedicated to rediscovering the city we had fallen in love with. The guided city tour took us through the iconic landmarks—the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and Champs-Élysées—reminding us of why Paris is called the City of Light.
The bustling energy of Opéra Garnier contrasted beautifully with the serenity of a stroll through the Left Bank, where literary cafés beckoned for one last glass of wine.
For those seeking a more active day, the adventure host led a riverside walk, allowing guests to experience the Seine on foot one final time.
Day 8: Au Revoir, France
With a final breakfast on board, we bid farewell to Avalon and the Seine. Our hearts were full from the experiences of the past week—art, history, and culture woven into every day. Normandy had been a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made for freedom, and the beauty of France was something we would carry with us long after the journey ended.
This was more than just a cruise—it was a journey of discovery, reflection, and unforgettable moments in the incredible country of France. Every detail aboard our Avalon Suite Ship® was thoughtfully crafted to enhance the experience, from the gourmet meals that introduced us to the rich flavors of French cuisine to the breathtaking views from our luxurious suite, where floor-to-ceiling windows made every sunrise over the Seine feel like a private showing just for us.
The food was nothing short of incredible—each meal felt like a celebration, whether it was an intimate dinner featuring the finest French wine and artisanal cheese, or the delightful crêpes and pastries that added a sweet touch to our afternoons.
The staff on board made the experience even more special. Their attention to detail, warm smiles, and unwavering dedication to making sure every guest felt pampered created an atmosphere of pure indulgence. Whether they were offering recommendations for shore excursions or remembering our favorite wine at dinner, the service was beyond attentive—it was personal, making us feel more like treasured guests than just passengers.
As we sailed along the Seine, there were countless romantic moments that we’ll cherish forever. From sipping champagne on the deck of the cruise ship as the sun set over Paris, France, to quiet walks through charming French villages, every moment seemed designed for couples seeking both adventure and intimacy. The serenity of the river, the beauty of the landscapes, and the luxury of our surroundings created the perfect backdrop for us to reconnect, celebrate, and dream together.
In the end, this wasn’t just a cruise—it was a love story with France, one that we will carry with us for the rest of our lives.
