2027 La Belle France: Paris, Normandy, and the River Seine

2027 La Belle France: Paris, Normandy and the River Seine

Trip Dates: May 19 to May 26, 2027

Starting Price: $3,483 per person double occupancy

Explore the Heart of Paris & Normandy

Start in Paris before boarding the AMADEUS Diamond for a scenic Paris & Normandy river cruise. Glide along the Seine to charming villages, the “museum town” of Rouen, and the picturesque harbor of Honfleur. Wander through Monet’s Gardens, follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gauguin. Discover the grandeur of Château de Bizy and explore the serene Routes des Abbayes. This journey blends art, history, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable Northern France experience.

Excursions are at an additional cost similar to an ocean cruise which provides a lot of flexibility instead of paying to have all the excursions included.

Optional Pre-Cruise Paris Extension $1,500 per person double occupancy :

To make the most out of your trip you can opt for a three-night Paris extension designed by Kate. This will include:

3-nights at a 4 star centrally located hotel
Paris walking tour
2-Day Paris Museum Pass
Food discovery tour
Transfer from the airport to the hotel and from the ship to the airport

7-Night Paris-to-Paris River Cruise with Amadeus

Trip dates: May 19 to May 26, 2027
Starting Price: $3,483 per person double occupancy

This pricing is about $2,500 less per person than other river cruise lines for a French balcony room. With that extra money you’ll be able to do a pre-stay in Paris and purchase the excursions you want. It’s a huge savings.

Cabin C-1 with Panoramic Window
Double Occupancy: $3,483 per person (1 cabin available)

Cabin B-4 with French Balcony
Double Occupancy: $4,006 per person (1 cabin available)

Cabin B-1 with French Balcony
Double Occupancy: $4,314 per person (2 cabins available)

Cabin A-1 with French Balcony
Double Occupancy: $5,110 per person (1 cabin available)

This journey aboard the Amadeus Diamond blends the timeless charm of Paris with the beauty of Normandy. Sail the Seine to charming villages, Rouen, and Honfleur, explore Monet’s Gardens and trace the footsteps of the Impressionists. From Chateau de Bizy to the scenic ‘Routes des Abbayes,’ experience the art, history, and landscapes of Northern France.

Trip Itinerary

Day 1 - Paris, France

Embark this afternoon in Paris, the romantic City of Light. After unpacking, join your fellow travelers for a Welcome Cocktail, followed by a specially-prepared Welcome Dinner.

Day 2 - Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, France

Arrive early in the morning in Conflans-St.-Honorine, at the confluence of the rivers Oise and Seine. Join a guided tour to the little town of Auvers-sur-Oise, a charming French town with narrow laneways, shuttered homes and the scent of roses guiding your exploration. It is not hard to see why the town was an inspiration to many Impressionist masters, including Cezanne, Pissarro and Daubigny. The most famous of these artists is Vincent van Gogh, whose final resting place is here. Depart late this afternoon.

Day 3 - Rouen, France

This morning, join a walking tour of the capital of the Normandy region and visit the cathedral that inspired Claude Monet, and the modern Church of Joan of Arc with its magnificent 16th century stained-glass windows. This afternoon, go back to the 17th century by visiting Le Pressoir d‘Or, a typical farmhouse where you can taste cidre and view the orchard cellar and the museum dedicated to the old apple press.

Afterwards, visit Lyons-la-Forêt, known as one of the most beautiful villages of France, situated 30 km east of Rouen, in a beautiful forested setting in Normandy. Late this afternoon, the vessel departs as it continues northward.

Day 4 - Le Havre, France

The harbor of Le Havre is your convenient base for two optional land explorations. This morning, opt for a tour to the nearby city of Honfleur, with its picturesque old harbor lined with 16th—18th century townhouses. After lunch, explore the Norman coastline on a walk along Étretat‘s cliff-top paths for a view of the steep chalk rocks with impressive needle-like formations. On board your AMADEUS vessel this evening, local chanson singers provide you with a taste of French culture and music.

Day 5 -Le Havre, France

Today, you can join us on a full-day Norman journey. Experience a combination of rich culinary traditions and historic landmarks including the closest harbor linked with the liberation of Western Europe after D-Day — the city of Arromanches with its remnants of World War II Mulberries. Or choose an excursion to Fécamp, a seaside resort and home to Le Palais Bénédictine, which produces the famous liqueur invented by Benedictine monks in the 16th century. The vessel departs after dinner this evening.

Day 6 -Les Andelys, France

Today, there are several choices for the day’s adventures. Relax in little town of Les Andelys or venture farther afield to the remains of the English king’s stronghold: Château Gaillard. Continue to Giverny, to visit the home of Impressionist Claude Monet and the beautiful gardens which were inspiration for several works of art. Indulge in a delightful lunch on board before embarking on an excursion to Château de Malmaison, the former residence of Joséphine and Napoleon Bonaparte, to immerse yourself in the privacy of the Imperial couple. After you rejoin the ship in Mantes-la-Jolie later this afternoon, your ship continues to Paris.

Day 7 - Paris, France

In the early morning, it is once again “Bienvenue“ to the French capital. Explore the sights of the Eiffel Tower and the bustling Champs-Élysées, one of the world’s most famous commercial streets, during a morning city tour. Later in the day, join us as we delve into the allure of Montmartre, an eternal muse for creativity and expression, located on the highest hill in northern Paris. From its cobbled streets and quaint cafes to its iconic Sacré-Coeur, Montmartre offers a unique experience that transports visitors back to the ”La Belle“ era.

Late this afternoon, enjoy a festive Gala Dinner and admire the city lights of the French capital.

Day 8 - Paris, France

After breakfast, your AMADEUS crew bids you “adieu” and we hope to see you again soon!

Excursions

Painters' village Auvers-sur-Oise
Rouen walking tour
Honfleur — city of art and history
Étretat cliff walk and scenic views
Full-day "Fascinating Normandy" with lunch
Visit to Fécamp with Palais Bénédictine
Monet’s inspirations near Giverny
Château de Malmaison tour
Paris highlights including Cafés, Cathedrals & Montmartre

Seasonal Guide

A Season of Light Along the Seine

Late spring along the Seine is effortlessly elegant — a time when France feels vibrant, romantic, and alive. By May, gardens are in full bloom, café terraces buzz with conversation, and the river glides gently past iconic landmarks and storybook villages. From the grand boulevards of Paris to the dramatic cliffs of Normandy, this is a season that celebrates beauty, history, and joie de vivre.

Traveling in May means experiencing France at its most enchanting, just before peak summer crowds arrive. You’ll wander through flower-filled parks, admire Impressionist landscapes that inspired Monet, and stroll through charming riverside towns where centuries of culture still linger in every stone.

Imagine drifting past vineyard-lined hills in the golden morning light, watching Gothic cathedrals reflect in calm waters, and exploring historic towns steeped in art, cuisine, and tradition. In Paris, the air hums with creativity — street musicians play along the Seine, bakers pull fresh pastries from their ovens, and the city sparkles at dusk.

Evenings are perfect for sipping wine on a sunlit terrace, savoring regional specialties, and watching the river shimmer beneath soft twilight skies. Every moment feels like a scene from a painting — every mile along the Seine a celebration of French artistry, history, and romance.

WEATHER OVERVIEW

PACKING ESSENTIALS

Lightweight layers (cardigan, light jacket, or blazer)
Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestones and museum
Stylish but practical attire for cafés and cultural sites
Compact umbrella or rain jacket
Sunglasses and sunscreen for bright spring days
A scarf (great for cooler evenings and cathedral visits)

- Step Behind the Scene and Discover the Adventure You Didn’t See -

A Different Kind of River: The Magic of the Seine

The Seine feels remarkably different from other European rivers. It’s a lot less industrial than the Rhine or the Danube; instead of busy factories, you’ll see graceful swans gliding past, chalky white cliffs, and rolling green hills.

Accomodation

Welcome to the adventure of a lifetime aboard the AMADEUS Diamond as we begin and end our cruise in Paris, the City of Light, traveling exclusively along the Seine.

Fully renovated in 2019, AMADEUS Diamond sparkles, combining smart technologies and modern designs with the utmost in comfort. From the lower decks to the open-air River Terrace, you’ll find countless ways to spend the day. Indulge and unwind with a massage before relaxing in front of the French balcony in your suite. Keep active in the fitness studio or challenge your shipmates to a putting contest on the Sun Deck. Cruising along the Seine offers an intimate view of France, from the picturesque villages to the soaring white chalk cliffs and natural arches of Normandy. Experience our impeccable Austrian hospitality as you take in all the charms of northern France aboard the AMADEUS Diamond.

- Amadeus Diamond Cruise Ship -

Amenities

Fully renovated ship (2019) – featuring modern designs and smart technologies.
French balcony in suites – perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view.
Massage services – for indulgence and relaxation.
Fitness studio – for keeping active while on board.
Sun Deck with putting green – for fun activities and friendly competition.
Open-air River Terrace – a space to enjoy fresh air and scenery.
Impeccable Austrian hospitality – ensuring a high level of service and comfort.

Amadeus Diamond Deck Plan

Step aboard the AMADEUS Diamond and embark on the adventure of a lifetime, beginning and ending your journey in Paris, the enchanting City of Light, as you glide exclusively along the Seine. Fully renovated in 2019, the ship sparkles with modern design, smart technologies, and the utmost in comfort. Spend your days however you wish—indulge in a soothing massage, then relax in your suite’s French balcony while watching the world drift by. Keep your energy flowing in the fitness studio, or enjoy a playful putting contest with fellow travelers on the Sun Deck. From the open-air River Terrace, take in the intimate beauty of northern France, from charming villages to the soaring white chalk cliffs and natural arches of Normandy. All the while, experience the warmth and elegance of impeccable Austrian hospitality, making every moment aboard the AMADEUS Diamond truly unforgettable.