Day 1 – Overnight stay
Make your own way to our hotel in Ashford, Kent, where we stay overnight on a bed and breakfast basis.
Day 2 – Ferry to Calais & embarkation in St Denis, France
In the morning we take the ferry to Calais and travel to St. Denis where we board the A-ROSA VIVA for the start of our seven-night cruise. We have time to explore Paris before our evening departure; whether you visit a famous art gallery or monument, or simply spend the afternoon in a café sampling the delicious French pastries, there is plenty to see and do. We enjoy a welcome dinner on board this evening.
Days 3 & 4 – Rouen
Today we begin our scenic cruise on the Seine to Rouen, the capital of Normandy. Known as ‘The Gothic City’, Rouen boasts some of the finest medieval architecture in the world including the jewel in the crown – the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. First constructed in the 13th century, this gothic masterpiece was the muse of impressionist pioneer Claude Monet. It is said he was so inspired by its facade that it took him two years to even enter the cathedral for the first time. Why not explore the city today on an optional guided walk?
With another day in France’s historic city of Rouen, there is ample opportunity to delve deeper into its storied past. Discover the legend of Joan of Arc, whose ashes were scattered in the Seine after she was burned at the stake. Visit the botanical gardens, or one of the many museums the city has to offer, including the Musée des Beaux-arts home to 17th-century masterpieces by Caravaggio and van Dyck and 19th-century works from Renoir, Pissarro and Monet. You can also opt for a fascinating excursion to the port city of Le Havre. Almost completely destroyed by WWII, its reconstruction is a triumph of modern design, earning it UNESCO status.
Day 5 – Caudebec-en-Caux
We arrive at Caudebec-en-Caux, a quiet riverside town full of French charm. Take a relaxing stroll to the impressive Brottone Bridge and visit the beautifully preserved cathedral – the personal favourite of King Henry the IV of France. If you are interested in maritime history, a visit to the Museo Seine is well worth it. Caudebec-en-Caux is also the gateway to the Cote Fleurie, Deauville and Honfleur that can be visited on an optional excursion, which also includes a tasting of Calvados, Normandy’s famous brandy made from apples or pears. Santé!
Day 6 – Les Andelys & Vernon
Built in just one year by King Richard the Lionheart in 1196, Les Andelys is one of the most picturesque ports on the Seine. Elevated on a hillside, the spectacular ruins of the Château Gaillard mark an imposing feature over the lower townships of Petit-Andely and Grand-Andely. A tranquil place, we find one of the best views of the river as it winds through the verdant landscape. From here, you can join the included guided walking tour or opt to visit the ancient Château de Vascooueil, known for its striking garden sculptures.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Vernon and have the opportunity to visit Claude Monet’s house and garden in Giverny, a magnet for art and horticultural lovers. Arsène Alexandre, Monet’s biographer, wrote ‘you cannot claim to know a man until you have seen his garden.’
Day 7 – Vernon to Paris
We depart Vernon before breakfast and spend the day cruising to Paris, enjoying the bustle of river life as we pass by picturesque villages and towns that inspired artistic masterpieces. Admire the imposing castle at La Roche-Guyon and the medieval cathedral at Mantes-la-Jolie from the vantage of the sun deck, while relaxing with your favourite drink. Later, we arrive in Paris in time for dinner. There is also an option for an evening tour of Paris or exploring the city at your own leisure.
Day 8 – St. Denis (Paris)
Today we have free time to discover Paris at our leisure or take an optional excursion. Paris is a mecca of art and culture with some of the world’s top art galleries, gardens, markets and iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Madeleine, Sacré-Cœur de Montmartre, Louvre and more. Our destination scout and cruise director can help plan your day or join an optional city tour. We enjoy a farewell dinner on board this evening.
Day 9 – Disembarkation in St. Denis & ferry home
We arrive back in Cologne where we disembark and head to Calais for our return journey. The coach drops us back at the hotel in Ashford, Kent for you to make your way home.
Optional Excursions
With A-ROSA, you can enjoy the flexibility of exploring the local sights at your leisure or choosing from a range of optional excursions, which are bookable on board. From tours through ancient cities and trips through impressive landscapes to action-packed and fun-filled experiences, there is so much choice! In many cities, you have the opportunity to visit the country and its people with a guide and driver. Your on-board host will happily provide you with more information.