Paris and Normandy River Cruise

Sail from the heart of Paris to Normandy along the storied Seine, exploring iconic historic sites, artistic landmarks, and UNESCO-protected treasures with exclusive Smithsonian-curated experiences. Deepen each moment through the insight and expertise of two Smithsonian Journeys Experts who bring the Seine’s history, art, and culture to life.

August 26 - Paris 

Board your ship and set sail down the Seine

Settle into your journey through Northern France as Paris dazzles with its vibrant energy, Monet’s Gardens and the charming harbor of Honfleur inspire your creativity, and Normandy’s dramatic coastline, historic D-Day beaches, and grand châteaux immerse you in art, history, and beauty.

August 27 - Les Andyles 

Uncover Richard the Lionheart’s legacy in Les Andelys

In Les Andelys, the dramatic cliffs above the Seine reveal Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s legendary fortress. Learn about medieval military strategy and architectural ingenuity as you explore the site, or take a guided hike or bike ride along the river, discovering the region’s history and landscapes. End your day with a leisurely Seine cruise, reflecting on Normandy’s rich heritage and the stories etched into its rolling hills and historic towns.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

Château Gaillard Tour • Château Gaillard Hike • Les Andelys Bike Tour • Scenic Cruising

August 28 - Le Havre

Stroll Honfleur’s picturesque harbor and historic Le Havre

Cross the Seine to Honfleur, a charming fishing town whose picturesque harbor inspired artists like Monet, Corot, and Boudin. In the afternoon, explore Normandy’s Pays d’Auge region, with its timeless villages and historic half-timbered houses, or return to Le Havre to discover the city’s post–World War II reconstruction and UNESCO-protected architecture by Auguste Perret.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

Honfleur Excursion • Le Havre “UNESCO City of Architects” Tour • Le Havre “UNESCO City of Architects” Tour to Post WWII Architectural Tour, Including Apartment Temoin Smithsonian Exclusive • Bike Tour

August 29 - Le Havre 

Experience Normandy’s battlefields, villages, and local flavors

Let Normandy’s landscapes tell their stories, from the beaches where history was made to the orchards of the Pays d’Auge, rich with cider and Calvados. Discover maritime treasures at the Seine Museum, or admire the quiet cemeteries and wartime relics that mark the bravery of another era.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

Normandy US Landing Beaches • Normandy British and Canadian Landing Beaches • Victor Hugo Museum + Chateau D’etelan Smithsonian Exclusive • Full Day Pays d'Auge • Seine Museum 

August 30 - Rouen 

Wander medieval Rouen and Bonnemare Castle

History comes alive in Rouen. Take a guided walk through its medieval center, from the Joan of Arc memorial square to Monet’s beloved cathedral, or delve into the city’s Jewish heritage at the Maison Sublime. Later, choose between sampling regional craftsmanship on a Normandy tasting tour or discovering the city by bike before visiting the elegant 16th-century Château de Bonnemare.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

Enhanced Medieval Rouen Walking Tour (Jewish History) Smithsonian Exclusive • Rouen Bike Tour • Tastes of Normandy • Bonnemare Castle Visit 

August 31 - Vernon

Discover the hidden charms of Giverny’s landmarks

Sail into Vernon for a day of enriching discovery, where you can explore Claude Monet’s preserved home and the gardens that inspired his most iconic works. Tour his studio, view his collection of Japanese prints, and wander the landscapes he carefully designed. Or, revel in the grandeur of Château de Bizy and embrace adventure on a guided bike ride through its sweeping countryside.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

Scenic Cruising • Monet's Home and Gardens in Giverny • Château de Bizy Tour • Giverny Bike Tour 

September 1 - Paris 

Deepen your knowledge of Paris’s greatest artists alongside art historians and experts

Enhance your understanding of art and culture with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, where Vincent van Gogh spent his prolific final months and where you can step inside his attic room at the Auberge Ravoux. Or, stay in Paris to view the world’s largest Monet collection at the Musée Marmottan, or follow an enlightening tour tracing Josephine Baker’s life and lasting influence on Black history and French culture.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

Artist’s Walk of Auvers-sur-Oise • Château Malmaison Excursion • Guided Visit of Musee Marmottan Monet visit • Josephine Baker (black History) Walking Tour Smithsonian Exclusive • Bike Tour • Bateaux Parisians 

September 2 - Paris 

Disembarkation 

Ready to explore France with Smithsonian-curated experiences?  Reach out to us to put down your deposit before this special sailing sells out!