Riviera River Cruises
More than just a holiday, a Riviera cruise offers the chance to explore new cultures and natural wonders in the utmost luxury and comfort.Â
River cruising is a relaxing and stylish way to travel. From the convenience of unpacking just the once, to the ease of mooring within easy access to interesting towns, cities and landmarks, there's a lot to love about our river cruises.
Whether you love immersing yourself in a new culture, uncovering architecture or learning about untold snippets of local history, our experts craft and plan each itinerary to provide you with a bold adventure, all of which is included in the price.Â
![Untitled design (6) Untitled design (6)](https://www.althams.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-design-6.png)
Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg
8 days from £2349 per person
Departing 26 July '24 from Manchester
![Untitled design (2) Untitled design (2)](https://www.althams.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-design-2.png)
A spectacularly scenic cruise of wonderful contrasts, from refined and historic Heidelberg to delightfully quaint Boppard and the old-world charm of medieval Strasbourg plus the enduring allure of the glorious Rhine Gorge.
-
Free Superior drinks package
-
Return flights & transfers
-
8 visits & tours
-
Full board dining
-
Complimentary on-board tea & coffee
-
Free on-board Wi-Fi
-
Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge
-
All port charges & airport taxes
-
Checked luggage
Day 1 - Arrival in Cologne
On arrival, transfer by coach to your five-star cruise ship moored in picturesque Cologne. The dedicated English-speaking crew welcomes you on board and helps you to your cabin. After settling into your spacious and tastefully furnished accommodation, there’s time to familiarise yourself with this splendid ship.
Day 2 - Koblenz &Â Boppard
When you peek out from your cabin this morning, you’ll realise the ship has slipped quietly away from Cologne; the view that greets you is of vine-covered valleys sides aglow in the morning light, bidding you a warm welcome to the charms of the Rhine.
There’s nothing quite like that feeling of anticipation when gliding alongside the promenade of a river port, snatching tantalising glimpses of what lies ashore, and Koblenz – beautifully located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers – doesn’t disappoint.
The city is immersed in two millennia of history: founded by the Romans, it was successively occupied by the Franks, chosen as a residence of the German prince electors, conquered by the French and fortified by the Prussians! All have left their marks in the city’s rich array of castles, churches and historic buildings.
Koblenz is a romantic’s dream – forest-covered hillsides dominate the skyline, while the lower slopes are strewn with pretty, half-timbered buildings so typical of the Rhineland. After a satisfying breakfast, we disembark to enjoy an insightful guided tour through ‘Old Koblenz’, a patchwork of narrow streets and squares, many lined with exquisitely restored traditional houses and cosy cafés.
There’s time to explore on your own, maybe taking in a little shopping, before ambling back to the cruise ship. We continue upstream as we enjoy our first relaxing lunch on board and before long we arrive in Boppard, a gorgeous town on a dramatic, almost U-shaped river bend.
Boppard
Known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’, Boppard is renowned for its storybook medieval atmosphere of cobbled streets and ancient houses. Here we’ll enjoy a guided tour lead by one of our local experts, with highlights including the beautiful white stone St. Severus and Carmelite churches, the marketplace with the ruins of the fortress and the old town with its charming winding alleys and half-timbered houses.
The early evening is an ideal time to wander along the town’s attractive riverside Rheinallee promenade before thoughts turn to tonight’s menu. After dinner, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments.
Included experience
Guided tours of Koblenz, Boppard & live folk music performance.
Day 3 - Rhine Gorge & Mainz
Slipping our moorings in Boppard we cruise through the Rhine Gorge, where the waters narrow to one-fifth their normal width and flow more swiftly. Sheer valley walls soar 600 feet and magnificent birds of prey glide on the thermals above.
Teutonic knights built the numerous redoubtable castles as symbols of their power and to extract tolls from ships, but the fortresses now stand as silent ruins on forested hillsides as reminders of how fortunes change with the passage of history. This really is the magical Rhine of our imagination, so find a comfortable spot on the Sun Deck or in the forward observation lounge and enjoy the experience of cruising this famous stretch of water.
Mainz
Your next port of call is historic Mainz for an unmissable guided tour. The city is renowned today as Germany’s wine capital but whose most famous son was Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the movable type printing press. You can visit the excellent museum housing a reconstruction of his workshop and, outstandingly, two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles. The museum is in a beautifully restored 17th-century building in the heart of Mainz’s Old Town, opposite the impressive Romanesque cathedral.
Included experience
Day 4 Heidelberg
Overnight we cruise further downstream, and, after breakfast, we take a short drive to Heidelberg, undoubtedly one of Germany’s most perfect architectural treasures and all the more remarkable because it escaped bombing during the Second World War.
Set in an almost idealised German landscape, this jewel sits on the banks of the River Neckar, surrounded by forests and with an imposing castle dominating the church spires and terracotta gabled roofs of the compact Aldstadt – the romantic Old Town. Its 14th-century university, one of the most prestigious in Europe, lends Heidelberg a genteel atmosphere rather similar to its ‘twin’ town – Cambridge. During the 19th century it was the centre of Germany’s Romantic Movement, on the route of the ‘Grand Tour’ and visited by many artists including JMW Turner, who captured its splendours for eternity.
There are few more delightful places to explore, as you’ll discover on our guided walking tour, which reveals its principal attractions – including the magical stone bridge with its twin white towers – and local secrets. Afterwards, you’ll have time to explore on your own before returning to the ship for lunch. The afternoon is free for you to relax on board or explore the local area.
Included experience
Day 5 Strasbourg & Colmar
By breakfast we’ve arrived in France and the charming city of Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. The city is a complete delight – its centre a mosaic of winding alleys and lanes lined with quirkily crooked, half-timbered houses largely unchanged since the 14th century. During its history Strasbourg has been both German and French, and you see influences of both in its language, cuisine and appearance, creating a truly individual ambience.
This morning, we explore this delightful city on a walking tour with a local guide leading us to its enchanting centre – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – taking in the Petite France quarter of pretty canals lined with classic pastel-coloured houses crisscrossed with timbers and with flower-filled window boxes, the famous multi-towered Ponts Couverts, or covered bridges, and, of course, the stunning Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, which Victor Hugo memorably described as a ‘veritable tiara of stone’.
The afternoon is free for you to relax on board or explore the local area. After dinner this evening, unwind to a medley of live music and songs performed on board by a professional duo. As you sleep tonight, our crew begin the overnight sail to Strasbourg.
Colmar
We enjoy all this on a splendidly scenic drive, soon arriving in the medieval town of Colmar, the best-preserved in Alsace. Little known outside the area, it’s a magical concoction of canals, former merchants’ houses, ancient religious buildings and antique shops.
The cathedral quarter is surrounded by pastel-coloured half-timbered houses displaying the intricate wrought-iron hanging signs so typical of this area of Europe. We’ve plenty of time here to sit, enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by or just wander. We return to the ship in Strasbourg for dinner.
Included experience
Day 6 - Rüdesheim
After a relaxing morning cruise, we arrive in Rüdesheim by late afternoon for a wonderful walking tour – if you imagine a typical Rhine town, then this would be it Narrow crooked streets lead down to the sweeping river with a backdrop of wooded and vine-covered slopes. Riesling is the speciality grape here and Rüdesheim has many atmospheric Weinstuben where you can sample local wines produced from the surrounding vineyards.
On board tonight, we enjoy a culinary spectacular – the Chef’s Dinner – featuring a range of irresistible specialities from the countries and regions we visit during our cruise.
Included experience
Day 7 Cologne Guided Tour
This morning, early risers can enjoy phenomenal views as once again we pass through the Rhine Gorge where, in Wagner’s Ring Cycle, the Rhine Maidens guard lost treasure, the ‘Rheingold’. What better way to spend the morning than relaxing on the Sun Deck beneath dramatic rocky, vineyard-topped valley sides dotted with romantic ruined castles.
The valley sides dissolve and hills give way to plains as we progress majestically to Cologne. This afternoon you can discover this fascinating city on our tour led by a local guide who’ll help you get the most out of your visit, which of course takes in the twin-spired cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe, miraculous survivor of Second World War bombing and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It took six centuries to complete, and among its many treasures are the magnificent stained-glass windows and gilded sarcophagus said to contain the remains of the three kings from the Nativity story.
We also see the vibrant Old Town, beautifully restored and boasting an abundance of excellent shopping and cosy bars, some of which still brew their own beer. As night falls, a sumptuous dinner provides the perfect finale to this memorable cruise through the romantic River Rhine.
Included experience
Day 8 - Return home
It’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.
Highlights of The Douro Valley & Salamanca
8 days from £2399 per person
Departing 8 August '24 from Manchester
![Untitled design (4) Untitled design (4)](https://www.althams.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-design-4.png)
Explore Portugal - one of the oldest countries in Europe - while meandering along the beautifully tranquil Douro river. Experience Portugal's wine-making traditions and explore the country’s fascinating history.
-
Free Superior drinks package
-
7 nights on board a five-star ship
-
Regional return flights and transfers
-
7 visits & tours
-
Full board, inc 1 lunch & 1 dinner at local Quintas
-
Complimentary tea & coffee
-
Free on-board Wi-Fi
-
Checked luggage
-
Expert Riviera Cruise Director
Day 1 - Arrival in Porto
After arriving in Porto, we'll transfer to our beautifully crafted ship. This first-class vessel is brand new for 2024 so you’ll be among the first to enjoy its luxurious facilities and that new ship smell. From the moment you board, the welcoming crew is at your service. Relax and settle into your accommodation before sitting down to our first delicious meal on board.
Day 2 - Porto
This morning, we'll explore Porto on a coach tour of the city, passing through the terraced streets of the old town and taking in the charming atmosphere. Along the way, we will pause to appreciate the stunning architecture, bell towers, baroque churches, and intricate tiles that are typical of traditional Portugal. We will also come across cosy cafes offering an array of cakes and pastries. Top tip: If you love a sweet treat, look no further than a pastel de nata the traditional Portuguese custard tart – they're delicious but devilishly moreish!
This afternoon, we’ll set sail for Régua, giving us the perfect opportunity to enjoy the ship's five-star facilities - enjoy the scenery along the Douro whilst chatting with fellow explorers on the sun deck, take a dip in the refreshing splash pool or head to the bar for a cool drink.
After docking this evening in the charming town of Peso da Régua, we'll visit the 126-acre Quinta da Pacheca, known as the first quinta to bottle wine under the name of its owner, the aristocrat Mariana Pacheco Pereira.
Here we'll stop for dinner accompanied by a selection of their wines, while enjoying dramatic views over the Douro. We'll have an opportunity to wander through the estate, which dates back to the 18th century and is one of the most beautiful properties in the region.
Included experience
Day 3 - Castelo Rodrigo
Enjoy a lazy morning sailing, relaxing over a leisurely breakfast. While we cruise down the river, you’ll have the opportunity to test out our brand-new facilities or lounge on the sundeck with a book - although we make no promises that you’ll be able to concentrate with views like these.
In the past, the Douro river was untamed and difficult to navigate, especially for the flat-bottomed boats that frequently sank in its waters. Today, the river has been controlled with dams and locks that have raised the water level, resulting in a landscape similar to Scotland's lochs and adding to the beauty of the valley - which we'll have time to appreciate as we sail this morning.
This afternoon we visit the historic 12th-century walled village of Castelo Rodrigo, tucked away in the picturesque highland ranges bordering Spain. The village is home to a well-preserved Gothic castle, a rare example of Leonese-style architecture. It's said that Saint Francis stayed here as the church was a resting place on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. From Castelo Rodrigo, enjoy unobstructed views of the Spanish border and beyond - you can also see the town of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo and the Monastery of Santa Maria de Aguiar.
Included experience
Day 4 - Salamanca
Located in western Spain, Salamanca combines history, culture and vibrant energy. This morning, we'll embark on a guided tour of the city and visit Salamanca's two cathedrals.
The old cathedral, built in the 12th century, is a beautiful example of Gothic and Baroque architecture featuring a stunning fresco of the Final Judgement in the Apse. The new cathedral shares a wall with the old one. It was built in the 16th century in a matching Gothic style to keep harmony with the old cathedral. Here you can enjoy the elaborately carved choir before continuing our guided tour of the city.
Over a local lunch, we'll be seduced by the fiery passion and energy of a traditional flamenco show before time at leisure to explore Salamanca on your own.
Visit the city's famous Plaza Mayor where many love affairs began. It was common from the mid-14th to the mid-20th century for men and women to walk in opposite directions around the gardens at the centre of the square to set up dates. If you're still looking for your one true love, you’re (unfortunately) out of luck as this tradition has faded out over time but the Plaza Mayor is still a must-see with a grand square with intricate facades and bustling cafes - a great place to stop and relax before we head back to the ship.
Included experience
Day 5 - Quinta da Avessada
Spend the morning relaxing onboard as cruise down the winding Douro river through its majestic valleys. The rugged terrain and dramatic cliffs create a striking backdrop for a relaxing morning enjoying breakfast and unwinding on the sundeck.
After mooring in Pinhão, we'll visit Quinta da Avessada - an estate renowned for its exquisite moscatel wines, where a traditionally cooked lunch awaits.
We'll follow the quinta owner on a guided tour as he entertains us with stories about the area's history and wine-making traditions. Stepping into the heart of the production process, we'll explore the vineyards, witness the meticulous cultivation of the muscat grapes that become moscatel wine and learn about the unique characteristics of the terroir and the viticultural practices that make this wine so exceptional - and, of course, we'll taste the local wines with the rustic lunch.
This evening, we'll enjoy free time in the picturesque town of Pinhão, which sits on a bend of the Douro, encircled by a terraced hillside. Here, some of the world's best port and table wines are produced. Wander through the town of white buildings and terracotta-coloured roofs and visit the delightful train station decorated with azulejos - Portuguese hand-painted tiles - celebrating Pinhão history with images of the grape harvest.
Included experience
Day 6 - Lamego & Mateus Palace Gardens
After breakfast, we'll take a short drive to the historic city of Lamego. It's known for its church, the Sanctuary of Nossa Senhora dos Remédios, which is situated at the top of a beautifully tiled baroque staircase. If you’re up for a challenge, it’s worth climbing the 686 steps to the top of the staircase for stunning views of the city - don't worry, you can stop to admire the fountains, mosaics and hedges along the way.
Other highlights of this delightful town include an ancient Moorish castle, a Gothic cathedral and elegant 18th-century villas. Head to the Avenida - the town's grand boulevard - for tea in one of the open-air cafes and to test your bargaining skills at the market stalls.
After lunch onboard, we visit the landscaped gardens of Mateus Palace. Wine aficionados will recognise the palace from the label of Mateus Rosé, whose logo depicts the impressive facade. The owner of Mateus Palace was offered a few pennies commission for every bottle sold. However, he turned it down in favour of a one-off lump sum. This was a major mistake as the brand became one of the most successful wines, exported to over 100 countries and it continues to be Portugal's number one-selling wine. Despite this financial misstep, the well-preserved Mateus Palace is still one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Portugal. Here, there'll be time to explore the gardens surrounding the palace, decorated with boxwood hedges, statues and a fragrant cypress tunnel and view the magnificent structure from all angles.
Tonight, after dinner, enjoy a Portuguese folklore show on board.
Included experience
Day 7 - Vila Nova de Gaia & Guimarães
Spend this morning enjoying the five-star facilities onboard. This afternoon, you can choose to return to Vila Nova de Gaia for a port tasting or join the tour to Guimarães, known for its foundational role in Portuguese history.
Porto is synonymous with delicious port wine - all the famous port producers are here, including Cálem, Sandeman and Ferreira - and it wouldn't be a tour of Porto without a visit to one of them in Vila Nova de Gaia. It's said that port was invented, almost by accident, when a pair of English brothers fortified Portuguese wine with grape brandy before taking it back to England in the late 1600s. We'll learn more about its fascinating history and production on our visits and, of course, you'll get the chance to sample various port styles at the end of our visit.
Alternatively, explore Guimarães, known as the birthplace of Portugal. The city is believed to be the hometown of Portugal's first King who was born in the Romanesque castle which overlooks the city from its hilltop. On our tour, we'll visit the Paço dos Duques de Bragança. Once the home of the first Duke of Braganza, the palace has been beautifully restored, and the preserved architectural treasures housed here tell the tale of this historic city.
Here, there’ll be chance to find lunch in one of the city’s many cosy cafes. Don’t be surprised if you hear the locals ask for café com cheirinho. Coffee with a splash of wine, fruit, or pomace brandy is practically a requirement for a lazy afternoon in the city.
This evening, we'll enjoy a Captain's dinner during your last night on board, expertly served by our restaurant staff under the supervision of the maître d’.
(*Please note lunch is not included if choosing the excursion to Guimarães).
Day 8 - Return Home
All good things must come to an end, and our Portuguese adventure is (unfortunately) no exception. After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home with memories and souvenirs to remind you of this fascinating region.
Included experience
Paris, Normandy & Historic Treasures of the Seine
11 days from £3499 per person
Departing 23 August '24 from Manchester
![Untitled design (3) Untitled design (3)](https://www.althams.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-design-3.png)
Meander along the Seine through the captivating landscape that has inspired artists and writers.
-
Free Superior drinks package
-
10 nights on board a five-star ship
-
12 included experiences
-
Full board dining*
-
Return flights & transfersÂ
-
Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge
-
Complimentary on-board tea & coffee
-
Checked luggage
-
Free Wi-Fi
Day 1 Arrival in Paris
Arrive at your five-star cruise ship moored on the banks of the Seine. There’s the warmest of welcomes from your crew as you step on board this luxury floating hotel, and they’ll be on hand to help you familiarise yourself with the ship and settle in. This evening enjoy your first superb dinner served in the elegant surroundings of the ship’s restaurant.
Day 2 Paris
After breakfast on board, we disembark for a sightseeing tour of this iconic capital and ‘city of lights’. The list of must-sees here goes on and on - the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Champs Élysées, Sacré-Coeur, Notre Dame to name but a few, and we’ll learn more about this amazing city through the eyes of our local expert. The grand Place de la Concorde, the largest square in the city, shows off 18th-century French architecture at its best, and just over the Seine on the Left Bank you’ll find the Musee d’Orsay, home of the world’s finest Impressionist art collection. Then there’s the stylish Pompidou Centre, famous not only for its exhibits but also for street entertainment, while the exquisite Tuileries Gardens are perfect for a stroll.
Cruise towards Conflans-Sainte-Honorine
Back on board lunch is served, after which we’ve an afternoon’s cruising in store. As we slip our mooring and glide away from this historic city, sit back and soak up the views. A comfortable sun lounger awaits on deck to watch the world go by, or chat over a cup of tea in the lounge whilst the river vistas silently drift past the panoramic windows.
During tonight’s dinner, we arrive in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine where we moor overnight. After dinner, retire to the lounge to enjoy a local performer entertaining us with the French and international chansons in a tribute to Edith Piaf.
Included experiences
Day 3 Auvers-sur-Oise
This morning we drive through the sleepy bocage countryside, a green landscape of lush pastures and high hedgerows to the captivating village of Auvers-sur-Oise, which has welcomed and inspired a host of famous artists through the centuries. Cezanne, Pissarro and most notably Vincent Van Gogh, who famously shot himself and was buried here in 1890, all drew inspiration from this picturesque spot with Van Gogh describing the little town as ‘seriously beautiful’. During a guided tour with a local expert, visit the elegant Château d'Auvers, an historic Louis XIII-style building, with all the style and ambience associated with 19th-century Impressionism where you can immerse yourself in the history of this world-renowned period. After a tour of its splendid interior, stroll the blissful gardens, admiring the perfumed blooms, manicured hedges and cooling fountains.
Cruise towards Rouen
We return to the ship for lunch and set sail towards our next stop, so relax and enjoy the facilities on board. Seek out a sun lounger up on deck to while away the afternoon with some holiday reading as we sail through the enchanting Normandy landscape, awash with fragrant cider orchards, half-timbered barns and characterful wooden farmhouses. Reconvene in the bar for an aperitif before the chef presents tonight’s excellent menu.
Included experience
Day 4 Rouen
Awake in Rouen, Normandy’s capital, one of Europe’s finest medieval cities and scene of many momentous events over the centuries. After breakfast we disembark to uncover the treasures of this fascinating city through the insightful eyes of our local guide. The jewel in Rouen’s crown is its stunning Gothic cathedral, which was immortalised by another of the great Impressionists, Claude Monet in a series of twenty-eight paintings depicting its impressive façade at varying times of day and in different seasons. Briefly becoming the world’s tallest building when its soaring spire was added during the 19th century, the cathedral is also notable for the tomb containing the heart of Richard the Lionheart.
You’ll find Rouen’s network of tangled alleys a treat to explore, lined with antique shops, smart boutiques and of course, a host of exceptional restaurants from which drifts the delicious aromas of this region’s gastronomic heritage. The Place du Vieux-Marché is one of the city’s most poignant spots; a large cross indicates where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake for her beliefs.
Cruise towards Le Havre
After lunch, we continue our cruise along the Seine’s magnificent course, passing chalk cliffs and a landscape of forest-covered hills that are designated 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 Jumiéges Abbey – which we rediscover later in the cruise.
After dinner, retire to the laid-back ambience of the bar for a digestif as we sail overnight to Le Havre.
Included experience
Day 5 Arromanches & D-Day beaches
This morning we are in Le Havre, and after breakfast we disembark for a full day visit to the D-Day Normandy Beaches. We visit the British Cemetery in Ranville followed by the Pegasus Bridge Memorial, made famous in the film The Longest Day. Ranville was the first French village to be liberated after the British 6th Airborne Division captured the bridge, preventing a German counter-attack during the weeks that followed the Normandy Invasion. We stop to pay our respects at the Canadian War Cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer then continue to Courseulles for lunch at leisure. Later we visit the Juno Beach Centre, situated immediately behind the beach codenamed Juno, the section of the Allied beachhead on which 14,000 Canadian troops landed on D-Day; the museum pays homage to the 45,000 Canadians killed during the war.
The day concludes with a scenic drive along the Landing Beaches to Arromanches-les-Bains. This has the best viewing point to Gold Beach, one of the five main landing sites on D-Day, when Allied forces surged into Normandy to begin the liberation of occupied Europe. Casting your eyes across the sand to the water’s edge, it’s sobering to consider that on 6 June 1944 around 25,000 British troops came ashore on this one beach, with 400 killed by the defenders.
After a truly poignant and memorable day, we return to the ship for another excellent dinner, before a talented musician and singer will take us on a journey through the repertoire of French classics.
We’ll remain moored in Le Havre overnight.
Included experiences
Day 6 Honfleur or Étretat
This morning, you can choose to visit the charming town of Honfleur or discover the natural coastal beauty surrounding Étretat which has inspired many painters and writers.
Honfleur is often regarded as the most picturesque spot on the northern French coast, and it’s a short drive to this captivating town. Its old harbour, sheltering both fishing boats and luxurious pleasure craft, is beautifully preserved and surrounded by a waterfront of pastel-coloured 16th to 18th-century houses, many converted into seafood restaurants which waft delicious aromas onto the quayside. Watch talented artists capturing the views along the waterfront, while the intricate maze of streets nestling behind invites exploration. Honfleur’s most famous son is Eugene Boudin, one of the forerunners of Impressionism and a friend of Claude Monet, who depicted Honfleur’s harbour in many of his works.
Alternatively, join our visit to the pretty seaside town of Étretat to discover the region’s legendary coastal views. Enjoy sweeping views of dramatic white cliffs, eroded away over the centuries to create unusual rock formations – again the subject of many an Impressionist’s canvas. Most famous is the aiguille, a sharp pinnacle protruding from the depths and the striking Aval Arch, famously immortalised by Monet and Boudin. Explore Étretat’s lattice of little streets, with quaint tucked away shops and restaurants and an unusual wooden covered market or take a walk up to the town’s Asian-inspired gardens, which afford stunning views of the cliffs and town. Perhaps visit the half-timbered 19th-century villa Le Clos Lupin, the former home of the French children’s writer, Maurice Leblanc, now an interesting museum celebrating his life and work.
Cruise towards Caudebec-en-Caux
We return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon there’s another opportunity to relax on board. Soak up the views as we sail through a lush landscape of verdant pastures and thickly forested slopes. During tonight’s superb dinner we arrive and moor in charming Caudebec-en-Caux.
Included experience
Day 7 Caudebec-en-Caux or Abbey Jumièges & Abbey Saint-Wandrille
You might choose to spend the morning exploring Caudebec-en-Caux, and its astounding cathedral, a 15th-century gothic masterpiece. Admire its intricate external decoration and beautifully carved stonework, then step inside to marvel at the superb medieval stained glass, statues and impressive 16th-century organ. Look out for the unusual Maison de Templiers, one of the oldest houses in Normandy thought to date from the 12th century with arched windows and attractive gothic façade, the 14th-century former town prison and two historic towers, remnants of Caudebec’s defenses. Or simply enjoy a peaceful stroll along the riverbank, admiring the houses and pretty gardens soaking up this tranquil scene.
Alternatively join our visit firstly to the majestic Abbey Jumièges, one of the loveliest ruins in France and a fine example of Norman Romanesque architecture. With a history dating back to 654, the original buildings were ransacked by the Viking invasions, but the abbey was rebuilt and by the mid-13th century had gained enormous influence in religious practice and learning. It prospered until the 17th century, but its final demise came with the French Revolution when it was forced to close along with all other religious institutions, sold in 1791 and became a stone quarry. Fortunately, by the 19th century, it became an icon of the Romantic Movement which prevented further destruction of the site. Today, you cannot fail to be impressed by the scale of these beautiful ruins set in acres of peaceful grounds. We continue to the working Abbey Saint-Wandrille, founded in the 7th century and one of the first Benedictine abbeys in Normandy. It’s a delight to wander this serene place admiring the stonework and statues, and if you’re lucky, hear the monks chanting in prayer.
Cruise towards Vernon
We return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon of scenic sailing; cool off in the splash pool, enjoy a relaxing spa treatment or settle down with a good book in a comfortable lounger. We sail overnight to Vernon.
Included experiences
Day 8 Giverny & La Roche Guyon
After breakfast we take a short drive to Giverny to visit Monet’s house and garden. 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 Water Lilies series. There’s time to wander here, absorbing the tranquil atmosphere while marvelling at the light bouncing off the foliage of every hue and the magical reflections shimmering on the water.
We rejoin the ship for a leisurely lunch, followed by an on-board cheese & cider tasting as we sail to La Roche Guyon. A local Farmer joins us to explain the different stages in the production of cider - from apple juice to brandy, with a chance to taste paired with cheese and rillettes.
La Roche Guyon
This afternoon we visit the remarkable 18th-century Château de la Roche Guyon which towers over a loop of the Seine. Built up against the cliff that once concealed it from the world, it was originally an invisible cave dwelling at the time of the Norman invasions, that evolved through the ages with a mixture of architectural styles to become the elegant chateau we’ll see today. A castle dating from medieval times crowns the site, against a backdrop of thickly forested slopes. Wander the extensive gardens, with regimented paths and fruit trees sweeping down to the river and enjoy the superb views over the water.
We return to the ship where dinner awaits during which we slip our moorings and sail on to Mantes-La-Jolie, arriving later that night.
Included experiences
Day 9 Château de Malmaison
This morning we make the short journey to the lavish Château de Malmaison, former residence of Napoleon I and his first wife Joséphine de Beauharnais. The name is thought to have derived from the existence of a hideout once located here, used by the Norman invaders as a base for their raids in the surrounding area. The grand palace you see today dates from the 18th-century however, and as you wander through the sumptuous interiors of the château, decorated in Empire style, you’ll be transported back in time to a fascinating and glamorous era of French history. The château was bought by Josephine Bonaparte in 1799 and became the seat of the French government together with the Tuileries from 1800-1802, and frequently played host to meetings of the ministers of the consulate. After the couple divorced in 1809, Josephine made the house her permanent home until her death here in 1814. See their private apartments – Napoleon’s secret staircase and Josephine’s opulent red and gilt bedroom, the highly decorated library and drawing rooms with exquisite furnishings and priceless artworks. Stroll through the splendid gardens, filled with plants and statues which were personally chosen by Joséphine, pausing to admire a beautifully restored pavilion and enjoy the delicate fragrance from the superb rose garden.
Cruise towards Issy
After lunch back on board, settle in for an afternoon’s cruising as we drift away from this picturesque spot. We pass by Mantes-la-Jolie’s old medieval stone bridge; the central section was destroyed during World War II and never repaired – another poignant reminder that this area of France has been a battleground for centuries.
This evening it’s time for another highlight in the elegant restaurant with the Chef’s Dinner, featuring some of their signature dishes - a truly memorable experience. Later we moor in Issy, on the outskirts of the French capital.
Included experience
Day 10 Paris
This morning, enjoy free time in Paris, or join an optional visit to the magnificent Palace of Versailles and the outstanding Versailles Gardens.
Everything used in the construction of the palace was created in France and for over a century it was considered the ideal against which all European palaces were measured; as you explore the Royal Apartments with their antiques, tapestries and priceless artworks, and the Royal Opera and Chapel with its exceptional decoration, you’ll soon see why. The famous Hall of Mirrors with its 357 mirrors is truly a sight to behold, so too the immaculate gardens with their topiary hedges, sculptures and refreshing fountains.
During lunch on board, our ship leaves Issy to a more central mooring in Paris, so enjoy the familiar sight of this iconic skyline with the Eiffel Tower again coming into view. This afternoon there’s free time in Paris to explore as you wish. Take in a museum, such as Europe’s oldest science museum, dating from 1794 with its vast collection of inventions and industrial design or soak up artistic treasures in the Louvre or Musee d’Orsay with its world-renowned collections of artwork, furniture, sculpture and photography. Browse the legendary stores such as Galeries Lafayette, the smart boutiques in the arcaded Rue de Rivoli, or bohemian Montmartre’s quirky galleries and independent shops. After another memorable day, return to the ship for tonight’s final dinner in the company of newfound friends.
Included experience
Day 11 Return home
After breakfast, depart the ship and transfer to the airport or station for your journey home.
The Seine Paris and Normandy River Cruise
8 days from £2849 per person
Departing 16 September '24 from Manchester
![Untitled design (5) Untitled design (5)](https://www.althams.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Untitled-design-5.png)
Cruise through the heart of Normandy along the majestic Seine visiting historic sites that have shaped the world today.
-
Free Superior drinks package
-
7 nights on board a five-star ship
-
Return flights & transfers
-
10 included experiences
-
Full board (except one lunch)
-
Complimentary on-board tea & coffee
-
Free on-board Wi-Fi
-
Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge
-
Checked luggage
Day 1 Arrival in Paris
On arrival, transfer by coach to your cruise ship moored on the River Seine in the heart of the city. The friendly crew will welcome you on board, helping you settle into your spacious and exquisitely furnished accommodation – you’ll immediately feel at home.
This evening you enjoy your first sumptuous dinner, served in the ship’s restaurant.
Day 2 Les Andelys
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. The remarkable 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.
Included experience
Day 3 Rouen
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.
Cruise towards Caudebec-en-Caux
During another superb lunch we cast off to navigate through yet more twists and turns, chalk 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, enjoy the laid-back tones of a guitarist singing traditional French melodies.
Included experience
Day 4 Bayeux & Arromanches
After breakfast you’ll be ready for a full-day tour exploring two of the most important aspects of European history – the Bayeux Tapestry and the D-Day landings. (Please note lunch is not provided today.)
Bayeux itself is a delightful town with a historic core that escaped the ravages of war, so you can marvel at its many splendid buildings including the grand Gothic cathedral. But, of course, Bayeux is most famous as the home of the tapestry telling the story of the Norman invasion of Britain in 1066 in glorious detail. Among its 75 scenes are the coronation of Harold following the death of Edward the Confessor and his subsequent demise at the Battle of Hastings, which led to William of Normandy invading England and becoming king.
The 230-foot-long tapestry is made up of nine panels of extremely delicate embroidery – gazing at its wonderful depictions of the battle and the period’s architecture, weapons and everyday life, you’ll appreciate why the Bayeux Tapestry is arguably the finest relic of the Middle Ages.
Arromanches
This afternoon we drive to Arromanches, where you will have free time for lunch. Then enjoy a visit to a museum dedicated to the ‘longest day’ where you can still see remnants of the two Mulberry harbours constructed for the landing craft.
Leaving Arromanches, we continue to the British Normandy Memorial – unveiled in 2021, the 77th anniversary of the D-Day landings. From here you have best point of view to Gold Beach, one of the five main landing sites on D-Day, when Allied forces surged into Normandy to begin the liberation of occupied Europe. Casting your eyes across the sand to the water’s edge, it’s sobering to consider that on 6 June 1944 around 25,000 British troops came ashore on this one beach with 400 killed by the defenders. We will then drive back to the ship moored in Caudebec.
After a day recalling such momentous events and the stories surrounding them, thoughts turn again to the culinary delights awaiting you in the refined comfort of the ship’s restaurant.
Included experience
Day 4 Honfleur
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.
Cruise towards Vernon
After returning to the ship for lunch, 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.
Included experience
Guided tour of Honfleur.
Day 6 Giverny & Vernon
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.
Vernon
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.
Included experience
Visits to Claude Monet's house and garden & Vernon.
Day 7 Paris
We have arrived in Paris and this morning we take a sightseeing tour of this amazing capital, one of the world’s most iconic cities. 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 before returning to the ship for lunch. You are also welcome to stay in the city and frequent one of the city's many cosy cafés.
After lunch, your afternoon is free to enjoy Paris and the many attractions of this amazing city. We are moored close to a well-connected RER station which allows easy access for you to tick a few items off your bucket list. 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, and 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.
Included experience
Day 8 Return home
It’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.
All prices are per person based on 2 sharing. Offers are subject to availability and can be changed or withdrawn without notice. Terms & conditions apply.Â
Some 3rd party links from this site do not guarantee ABTA/ATOL protection. Please check when booking. Althams Travel act as agents for Licensed tour operators who provide ATOL protection.This means air holidays and flights shown are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. Althams Travel Services Ltd Registered Head Offices.Netherwood Road, Burnley.BB10 2AN. Registered No. 42478 England.