Bordeaux, Paris & The Seine

From $5,460 per person

11 days

1 countries

Ships: ms Sapphire, ms Serene

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Bordeaux, Paris & The Seine

Journey Summary

  • Day 1 - Arrive Bordeaux
  • Day 2 - Food, wine, art, and more in Bordeaux
  • Day 3 - Wine tasting at a Chateau / Saint-Émilion & Entre-Deux-Mers
  • Day 4 - The "City of Lights" awaits today
  • Day 5 - Discovering the sparkling city of Paris
  • Day 6 - The Palace and Gardens of Versailles
  • Day 7 - A day of culture, history and an exclusive elegant evening
  • Day 8 - Discover the beaches of the Battle of Normandy
  • Day 9 - Les Andelys & Tilly, France – A Day of Culture and Flavors
  • Day 10 - A Monet-Inspired day along the Seine
  • Day 11 - Journey home

Itinerary Highlights

Embark on an unforgettable journey through France, where every moment blends history, culture, and the art of living... Your adventure begins in Bordeaux, the world's most renowned wine region, where sprawling vineyards, 18th-century boulevards, and exquisite local cuisine set the tone for an extraordinary journey. Sip fine wines at a family-owned château, savor gastronomic delights on a foodie walking tour, and uncover Bordeaux's Roman roots and artistic treasures. Step into the medieval charm of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where cobblestone streets lead to ancient vineyards, and a leisurely lunch at a local château offers a taste of regional traditions. As the journey unfolds, board a high-speed train to Paris, the "City of Light," where elegance and enlightenment converge, and your riverboat awaits. A visit to the Palace of Versailles offers a glimpse into royal opulence, with its gilded halls and breathtaking gardens. The Seine River becomes your guide as you cruise to Rouen, Normandy, and beyond. At the beaches of Normandy, feel the weight of history as you visit Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery, where poignant stories of courage and sacrifice come to life. Discover the picture-perfect village of Les Andelys, framed by the ruins of Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart's medieval fortress. Delight in Normandy's culinary treasures and experience the artistic spirit of France with a visit to Monet's house and gardens in Giverny, exploring the tranquil landscapes that inspired the master of Impressionism.
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Detailed Itinerary

Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.

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Day 1

Arrive Bordeaux

Tour Begins: 6:00 PM. A transfer is included to your stay at the InterContinental Bordeaux – Le Grand Hotel. Join us this evening for a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel, and meet your fellow travelers. 

Day 2

Food, wine, art, and more in Bordeaux

Welcome to the most famous wine region in the world. Bordeaux has nearly 6,000 wineries and 272,000 acres of vineyards, with the most planted grape being the Merlot. Known as the "City of art, history and cuisine" this southwestern city of France boasts 362 monuments, including some from the Roman era, well-preserved 18th-century architecture, including grand boulevards, elegant squares and numerous Michelin-starred restaurants. Your first morning begins with a choice of excursion; you may choose a more active e-bicycle ride to a family-owned 16th-century chateau and vineyard for a hike along the nature trails and compliments with wine tasting at the end. Alternatively, discover the beautiful city of Bordeaux with local insights on an orientation drive, en route to La Ciudad del Vino; Bordeaux's wine museum where you'll learn about the influence of wine as a universal cultural heritage. Touring of a wine museum would only be complete with a tasting - which you'll enjoy in their decorated tasting room. Following your choice of explorations this morning, and free time for lunch, join us for a foodie walking tour with a focus on the local gastronomic cuisine. Return to your hotel for an evening at leisure. 

Day 3

Wine tasting at a Chateau / Saint-Émilion & Entre-Deux-Mers

After breakfast at your hotel, depart for the quaint medieval town of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site named after Saint Aemilianus, a Breton monk who lived in the 8th century. Much like Bordeaux, Saint-Émilion is known for its world-famous wineries, where Romans planted vineyards that date back to 2nd century AD. Join our local guide for a more challenging walking tour through its hilly cobblestone streets, followed by a visit to a local Chateau for a tour, wine tasting and a lunch that entices with local flair.

Day 4

The "City of Lights" awaits today

From the world-renowned wine region to "la ville lumière," (the city of lights) make your way to Paris, where your river cruise awaits. Paris earned its sobriquet during the enlightenment, a philosophical movement that began in the early 17th century, in recognition of its importance as the center for art, education and intellectual pursuits. After a scenic high-speed train ride, embark your ship, settle in and join us for a welcome reception and dinner aboard your floating hotel. 

Day 5

Discovering the sparkling city of Paris

A full day in Paris excites with your choice of must-see sights. After breakfast aboard your riverboat, join a local guide for a walking tour through the Latin Quarter, passing Sorbonne University; the most sought-after college for Europeans and dates back to the Middle Ages, the Panthéon known as the "temple of great men and great women of the nation," and ending in Luxembourg Gardens; voted the "most beautiful garden in all of Europe." Alternatively, Relax aboard a guided coach tour that offers a comprehensive overview of the "City of Light's" most iconic sights. From the Eiffel Tower to the Champs-Élysées, take in Paris's grandeur with the ease of minimal walking. Perfect for a laid-back exploration, this orientation tour lets you see the best of the city at a comfortable pace. Enjoy lunch aboard the ship, with time to relax before an onboard wine presentation that's sets the table for cocktail hour and dinner in the lounge followed by local entertainment.

Day 6

The Palace and Gardens of Versailles

Explore Versailles your way today. Join our local guide for a tour inside Palace of Versailles, a former hunting lodge turned royal residence, and a lavish testament to French royalty. Alternatively, explore by bicycle through the Gardens of Versailles, among the largest and most spectacular in the world and contains over 400 statues, making it the world's largest open-air sculpture museum. Return to your riverboat to learn local insights from your Tauck Director, following a cocktail hour, and dinner at your leisure. Your ship charts for Rouen this evening.

Day 7

A day of culture, history and an exclusive elegant evening

Welcome to Rouen, a city rich in history and charm. Admire the early morning views of this enchanting Normandy destination as the ship docks before joining us for a guided walking tour through the heart of Rouen. Highlights include the magnificent Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen and the historic Joan of Arc Square and Church. Return to the ship for lunch at your leisure and enjoy free time to explore Rouen at your own pace, wandering the cobblestone streets. Cruise for Duclair this evening for an evening that is exclusive to Tauck guests at the 16th-century Chateau du Taillis. Sip on cocktails as you explore the elegant grounds of this historic estate. Enjoy a magical dining experience at the chateau, complete with fine cuisine and an ambiance that transports you to another era. Return to your ship and settle in for another day of unique discoveries to follow. 

Day 8

Discover the beaches of the Battle of Normandy

Embark on a journey through history to the poignant landscape of D-Day and the Battle of Normandy. Arrive at Pointe hu Hoc where the rugged cliffs were scaled by American forces on June 6th, 1944. Your expert guide will transport you to that pivotal day, recounting the courage and sacrifices made that changed the tide of World War II. A short drive brings you to Omaha Beach, the largest assault area, stretching over 6 miles. After lunch in Normandy's countryside, visit the American Cemetery, a tranquil resting place overlooking Omaha Beach, dressed with white crosses and stars of David. As the sun begins to set over the beaches that marked history, continue back to your riverboat. Reflect on the day's emotions during cocktail hour, followed by dinner at your leisure. Your ship sets course for Les Andelys as the stars illuminate the Seine. 

Day 9

Les Andelys & Tilly, France – A Day of Culture and Flavors

As the sun rises over the Seine, the ship arrives in Les Andelys, a charming riverside village with postcard-perfect beauty. Explore history and scenery in Les Andelys on a walking tour led by an expert local guide, discovering its timeless allure. Wander through cobbled streets, admire its quaint charm, and visit the ruins of Château Gaillard, the once-mighty fortress of Richard the Lionheart. Choose a more active option to descend to the village for a closer look at life along the river. Mid-morning, venture to Tilly for an authentic taste of Normandy. At a welcoming family-run farm, savor a cider and Calvados tasting experience. Tour the farm and delight in regional specialties, from velvety brandy to homemade pâté and fruit preserves. The flavors of this pastoral region are sure to linger on your palate long after the visit. Enjoy a scenic drive back to Les Andelys, where you'll reconnect with the ship as it sets course for Vernon. Upon arrival, join your Tour Director for an insightful orientation walk, uncovering the town's rich history and charm. Whether it's the half-timbered houses or the quaint cobblestone squares, Vernon invites you to step back in time. Cap off your day with a festive cocktail hour in the lounge before enjoying the chef's signature dinner. Later, indulge in lively Parisian entertainment as a Can Can group brings the spirit of France to life right onboard.

Day 10

A Monet-Inspired day along the Seine

This morning, enjoy a scenic drive to Giverny for a Tauck Exclusive early access to explore the Monet House and Gardens, a serene oasis of inspiration for the master of Impressionism. Stroll through vibrant flower beds and water lily ponds, capturing the essence of Monet's iconic works. Led by a local guide, this immersive visit is both a cultural and visual feast. After a morning immersed in artistry, return to the ship in Vernon to enjoy a lunch and prepare for a creative afternoon onboard. Join renowned artist Mark Alsterlind for an interactive painting class inspired by your visit to Giverny. Learn techniques tied to Monet's masterpieces as you create your own impressionist-inspired art—a perfect keepsake from your journey. As the Seine carries you toward Paris, enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Day 11

Journey home

Tour Ends: Paris. Disembark ship by 9:00 AM. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from your ship to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. Please allow 3 hours for flight check-in.

Dates and Prices

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* Per double occupancy. Some pricing may reflect single traveler rate.

Ship

Your cruise ship

ms Sapphire
Tauck
About this ship

ms Sapphire

ms Sapphire offers a seamless combination of luxury and comfort along the magnificent River Seine, revealing the greatness of Paris and the historic riches of Normandy... it tells tales of Paris and how one of the world's greatest cities made history along its banks... brings first-hand views of the painted Impressionist landscapes and light that inspired artists such as Claude Monet... and provides an authentic slice of northern France riverside life.One of the 361-foot (110-meter) riverboats in Tauck's Destination Fleet, this newly redesigned riverboat debuted in 2017 with a new deck plan optimised for the utmost in spaciousness – with 70% of her cabins measuring 225 square feet or larger – and accommodating no more than 98 guests, while similar-sized riverboats average about 160. Guest amenities inside her 14 lush 300-square-foot Tauck Suites include brocade upholstery, roomy walk-in closets with built-in drawers, spacious bathrooms with separate showers, and two French balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to idyllic riverscapes. She also sports twenty roomy 225-square-foot cabins, four 183-square-foot cabins and one 182 square-foot cabin, similarly furnished. Eight 150-square-foot cabins are cozy and comfortable, and are similar in décor and style to our larger suites. 85% have floor-to-ceiling windows with real French balconies that open on to a balcony in the fresh air; all have in-room movies, minibar, adjustable heating and cooling, private bathroom and shower with pampering toiletries. In addition to our main dining room, The Compass Rose, the ship also features Arthur's, a second dining venue offering casual fare.

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