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Embark on an unforgettable journey through France, where every moment blends history, culture, and the art of living.
Departs April - November 2026.
*Advertised price based on 30 July, 18 August and 2 November 2026 departure dates and correct as of 24 April 2025.
Inclusions
EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK
TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Dinner at 16th-century Château du Taillis in Duclair
TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES
All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director
Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at AUD $6,335
A locally guided walking tour of historic Rouen, including the Cathedral painted by Monet more than 30 times and Joan of Arc Square
Guided exploration of D-Day sites with a local expert, including Pointe du Hoc, Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery, with lunch at the Omaha Beach Club
Cider and Calvados tasting at a farm in Tilly
A visit to the Château Gaillard ruins in Les Andelys
Early-opening visit to Monet's house and gardens and the Impressionist Museum in Giverny
Choice of sightseeing in Paris includes visits to the Opéra Garnier or a walking tour of the Latin Quarter
Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks
Airport and train station transfers on arrival and departure as noted
20 meals; service charges, taxes, porterage, and applicable fuel surcharges
Itinerary
DAY 1 Arrive Bordeaux Tour begins: 6:00 PM, InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. A transfer is included from Bordeaux airport or train station to your hotel. This evening, meet your fellow travelers at a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel as your French journey begins in style.
Dinner InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel
DAY 2 Food, wine, art, and more in Bordeaux Welcome to the world’s most celebrated wine region, home to nearly 6,000 wineries. Today’s adventures begin with your choice of morning excursions: take a scenic e-bike ride to a 16th-century family-owned chateau for a vineyard hike and wine tasting, or enjoy a city tour of Bordeaux followed by a visit to La Cité du Vin wine museum—complete with tasting. After free time for lunch, join a local guide for a culinary walking tour through Bordeaux's gastronomic delights. The evening is yours to relax or explore.
Breakfast InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel
Excursion Choices
DAY 3 Saint-Émilion & Château wine tasting After breakfast, travel to the medieval village of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with roots dating to Roman times. Embark on a walking tour through its charming, hilly cobblestone streets, followed by a visit to a local chateau for a tour, tasting, and lunch featuring regional specialties.
Breakfast, Lunch InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel
DAY 4 From Bordeaux to Paris – Embark River Cruise Travel via high-speed train from Bordeaux to Paris, where your riverboat awaits. Paris, known as “la ville lumière,” has long been a beacon of art, education, and culture. Settle into your floating hotel before gathering for a welcome reception and dinner on board.
Breakfast, Dinner ms Serene
DAY 5 Paris – The City of Light Today’s exploration of Paris offers a choice of sightseeing: a walking tour through the Latin Quarter and Luxembourg Gardens, or a panoramic coach tour showcasing the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and more. Enjoy lunch aboard your riverboat, followed by an onboard wine presentation and local entertainment after dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ms Serene
Excursion Choices
DAY 6 The Palace and Gardens of Versailles Today, choose between a guided interior tour of the opulent Palace of Versailles or an active bicycle ride through its expansive gardens. Return to the riverboat this evening and sail toward Rouen.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ms Serene
Excursion Choices
DAY 7 Rouen & Château du Taillis Gala Evening Explore the medieval town of Rouen on a walking tour, including the Cathédrale Notre-Dame and Joan of Arc Square. After free time and lunch aboard ship, cruise to Duclair for an exclusive Tauck dinner event at the 16th-century Château du Taillis.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ms Serene
DAY 8 D-Day Beaches & American Cemetery Trace the history of D-Day with visits to Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach. After a countryside lunch, pay tribute at the American Cemetery. Return to the riverboat to reflect during cocktail hour and dinner.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ms Serene
DAY 9 Les Andelys & Flavors of Normandy Wake in picturesque Les Andelys and enjoy a walking tour or hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard. Continue to Tilly for a visit to a family-run farm featuring cider and Calvados tastings. Return via scenic drive and explore Vernon before a festive onboard evening of food, cocktails, and a Parisian Can Can performance.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ms Serene
Excursion Choices
DAY 10 Monet’s Gardens in Giverny & Art Onboard Arrive early for exclusive access to Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny. Back on board, enjoy lunch and participate in an interactive painting session with artist Mark Alsterlind, inspired by Monet himself. Cruise onward to Paris for your final night.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner ms Serene
DAY 11 Journey Home Tour ends: Paris. Disembark by 9:00 AM. A transfer is included from the ship to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Please allow at least 3 hours for check-in.
Breakfast
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
