The Grand France

Grand France

15 day river cruise

2026

This river cruise holiday showcases France’s charm, breathtaking views, and rich history. Your adventure begins on the Rhône River with a visit to Arles, France—famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh—and its 1st-century Roman Amphitheatre. On a guided tour of historical Avignon, see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes. The city of Tournon is beautifully nestled among vineyards and you’ll go on a guided walk of this medieval treasure with plenty of Roman ruins. Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture. The Seine River offers a choice of excursion opportunities, such as a visit to the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, including Omaha Beach, the Point du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery; a visit to delightful Les Andelys, Joan of Arc’s Rouen, and the choice between a visit to Vincent van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise or Napoleon and Josephine’s Malmaison. 

On this French river cruise, you’ll enjoy wine, cheese, beautiful scenery, and stops in charming and historical parts of France, but your adventure would not be complete without a visit to Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! Discover its true heart on a guided walk through the sites of Paris’ rich history, or take a tour showing you the iconic sites of the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and more. Walk in the footsteps of the great master artists, enjoy the delectable cuisine of France, and stand where heroes fought for freedom on the beaches of Normandy. This and so much more is waiting for you on your French cruise on the Seine!

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A River Odyssey Through the Heart of France

Each day offers a perfect blend of guided excursions and free time, allowing you to immerse yourself in French culture, history, and cuisine. From the romantic Seine to the sun-drenched Rhône, this journey showcases the very best of France, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your Suite Ship.

Day 1: Paris



  • Embark on your luxurious Suite Ship
  • Evening cruise on the Seine, witnessing the City of Light come alive



Day 2: Vernon & Les Andelys



  • Morning in Vernon: Visit Monet's enchanting gardens in Giverny
  • Afternoon in Les Andelys: Hike to Château Gaillard or explore the picturesque town


Day 3: Caudebec



  • Cruise the Seine's Normandy Abbeys Route
  • Optional excursion to charming Honfleur


Day 4: Normandy Beaches


  • Full-day excursion to D-Day landing sites
  • Visit Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery


Day 5: Rouen



  • Explore the medieval quarter and magnificent cathedral
  • Walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc


Day 6: Conflans


  • Choose between Van Gogh's Auvers-sur-Oise or Napoleon's Château de Malmaison
  • Evening cruise into Paris


Day 7: Paris


  • Guided city tour featuring iconic Parisian landmarks
  • Free time to explore the City of Light


Day 8: Paris to Beaune to Chalon-sur-Saône


  • High-speed train journey to Burgundy
  • Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune
  • Board your ship in Chalon-sur-Saône


Day 9: Tournus


  • Discover one of Burgundy's oldest monastic centers
  • Onboard cheese tasting experience


Day 10: Lyon


  • Explore France's gastronomic capital
  • Guided tour of Old Town and Fourvière Hill


Day 11: Lyon


  • Culinary walk through local markets
  • Free time to discover Lyon's famous murals


Day 12: Tournon & Viviers


  • Morning walk through medieval Tournon
  • Evening tour of charming Viviers


Day 13: Avignon


  • Visit the impressive Palace of the Popes
  • Optional excursion to Pont du Gard or Châteauneuf-du-Pape


Day 14: Arles


  • Walk in Van Gogh's footsteps
  • Visit the Roman Amphitheatre
  • Optional painting workshop


Day 15: Arles


  • Bid farewell to your floating boutique hotel
  • Depart with unforgettable memories of France


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Aboard with Avalon

15 years of innovation in River Cruising

From the moment you step aboard our modern, award-winning cruise fleet, our passion for detail redefines relaxed luxury. 

Breathe in the view with our panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, which blur the line between where the world ends and your room begins. With the most spacious suites of any European river cruise, unpack once and indulge more in your own private oasis. Relax and recharge in your own slice of heaven, which boasts complimentary Wifi, an on-board library, hair salon and fitness centre. 

Unwind after a day of adventure with decadent drinks at the cocktail bar. Savour local delicacies and world class wines prepared for you by our renowned chefs. Be surprised by the variety of on-board entertainment. Do it all or do as little, but do it your way.

   Keen to join us onboard? Get in touch to discuss package deals and pricing...
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