Paris & Normandy on the Seine

DAYS 1-2—BIENVENUE A PARIS!
After an overnight flight to Paris, board the Amadeus Diamond, your home for the next seven nights. Enjoy a special welcome cocktail and dinner on board before settling in for the exciting adventure ahead. L, D

DAY 3—CONFLANS/AUVERS-SUR-OISE
Just 30 minutes from the bustling City of Lights, the village of Auvers-sur-Oise sits between the Oise River and rugged cliffs. Visit Van Gogh’s grave at the hilltop cemetery and explore the Châteaud’Auvers, a 17th-century estate immortalized in his paintings. B, L, D

DAY 4—ROUEN
This morning, explore Rouen’s medieval charm, from Gothic churches and half-timbered houses to Monet’s cathedral and the iconic “Gros Horloge” clock. Later we’ll visit the site where Joan of Arc was burned and admire the striking Saint-Maclou Church. In the afternoon, tour Le Pressoir d’Or cider house in Vexin Normand, exploring its orchard, cellar, and cider-making museum before a tasting. End the day with free time in Lyons-la-Forêt, one of France’s most beautiful villages. B, L, D

DAY 5—HONFLEUR, ÉTRETAT
Wake up in Le Havre, known for its unique post-World War II reconstruction and architecture. Enjoy the morning at leisure or take the optional excursion to Honfleur. In the afternoon, head to Étretat, famed for its dramatic white cliffs and stunning coastal views. B, L, D

Option—Honfleur
Honfleur Stroll through this charming port city on a guided walking tour. Wander its narrow, historic streets, visit the iconic Vieux Bassin, the Lieutenancy, and St. Catherine’s Church, then browse local galleries and markets for cider, Calvados, and handmade crafts. Price: $100 per person

DAY 6—BEACHES OF NORMANDY
Explore the historic sites of Normandy, where pivotal moments of World War II come to life. Begin at Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled the dramatic cliffs on D-Day, followed by a solemn visit to the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking Omaha Beach. After a reflective stop at this hallowed ground, enjoy a leisurely lunch before delving deeper into history at the Overlord Museum, home to an extensive collection of wartime artifacts and vehicles. B, L, D

DAY 7—LES ANDELYS/VERNON
Take a short drive to Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s 12th-century fortress overlooking the Seine. Continue to Giverny, where Monet found lifelong inspiration. Tour his vibrant home, hear stories of his artistic circle, and stroll through the gardens that shaped his masterpieces. This afternoon, enjoy free time on the ship, or partake in the optional excursion to visit Joséphine Bonaparte’s beloved estate. B, L, D

Option—Joséphine, Napoleon And Château De Malmaison
Joséphine de Beauharnais transformed her mansion west of Paris into a gem of the First Empire period, where Napoleon made key decisions for France from 1800 to 1802. Explore their daily life, including the music room, council room, and Joséphine’s bedroom, and enjoy free time in her cherished gardens. Price: $125 per person

DAY 8—PARIS
It is once more “bonjour” to the French capital. Stunning sights include the incomparable Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides—famous as the burial place of Emperor Napoleon I—the fabulous Louvre Museum, the famed and elegant Champs-Elysées, the Jardin des Tuileries, and much more. Later, enjoy free time to explore the “City of Love” on your own, or visit Montmartre on the optional excursion. B, L, D

Option—MONTMARTRE
With its narrow, winding streets and charming squares filled with artists and history, Montmartre offers panoramic views of Paris. Explore its hillside vineyard, Moulin de la Galette, and the Bateau Lavoir studio where artists like Picasso and Renoir once worked. Walk the same cobbled paths that inspired generations of creators, soaking in the area's romantic and bohemian spirit. Price: $100 per person

DAY 9—LOIRE VALLEY
Today, say “au revoir” to the Amadeus Diamond. Along the way to the Loire Valley, discover the Château de Chambord, a French Renaissance masterpiece, with an interactive tour. This evening, settle into your hotel in Blois, a charming hillside city along the Loire River. B, L, D

DAY 10—VINEYARDS AND CASTLES
Today, impressive castles and fine wines await. Begin with a tour of Château de Chenonceau, one of the most breathtaking castles in France. At the winery, meet a passionate winemaker, learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, and savor a sampling of the Loire Valley’s renowned wines. This evening, enjoy dinner on your own and time to explore Blois at your leisure. B, L

Day 11—RENNES
This morning, depart Blois and head to Rennes, Brittany’s vibrant capital city. Enjoy a guided tour of its elaborate city center, immense cathedral, and medieval quarter. Lunch awaits at a local favorite before
heading for Mont Saint-Michel. B, L, D

DAY 12—CANCALE/SAINT-MALO
Visit the historic coastal city of Saint-Malo. Enjoy a guided tour of the charming “Intra- Muros.” Admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands. In stunning Cancale, the Parcs Saint Kerber Oyster Farm opens it doors to show the trade secrets of oyster farming before a special tasting of
their fresh “Perles Cancalaises. B, L, D

DAY 13—MONT SAINT-MICHEL
Spend time today visiting Mont Saint-Michel, the second most visited site in France. Take a guided tour of the mountaintop abbey and learn all about its thousand-year history. After touring and exploring “le mont,” enjoy lunch before departing Mont Saint-Michel for Paris. Note: A special D-Day commemoration, if possible, will be determined closer to departure. B, L, D

DAY 14—RETURN HOME
It’s time to bid “adieu” to France and begin your journey home, filled with memories. B

Quality Accommodations
Nights 2-8: MS Amadeus Diamond
Nights 9-10: Hotel Mercure Blois or similar
Nights 11-12: Mercure Mont Saint-Michel
Night 12: CDG Paris Airport Hotel

Dates:
May 26 - June 8, 2026

Price Per Person:
See table below
Land only pricing available

Pre/Post Tour Hotel:
$250/night

Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL (call for other cities)

Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions, meals, crew, and drivers
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service

Arrival Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.

Departure Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.

Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our pre and post hotels offer complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Free parking can be offered during the tour with a pre or post night, please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service.

Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your CTD vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate. Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.

We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, you should know that you may be required to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law often does not allow travelers to remain on the motorcoach while it is parked for a scheduled stop.

Average Temps
High of 70°F, low of 52°F

Currency
Euro

Time Zone
GMT+2 (6 hours ahead of New York)

Hotel Amenities
All AMADEUS ships have an elevator that operates between the Mozart, Strauss and Haydn decks. The sun deck is not accessible by elevator.

Wi-Fi is available aboard the ship and the price is fully covered by CTD. We will travel in rural river landscapes, meaning the Wi-Fi connection at times can be limited.

All cabins and suites are equipped with high-quality care products, such as soap, shampoo, body lotion, and shower gel. You will also find a hair dryer, sewing set, shower cap, and nail file in your cabin. Laundry is available onboard for a small fee.

Breakfast and lunch are lavish meals, with evenings featuring chef’s specialties and regional dishes. In addition, a light breakfast and lunch is offered in the Panorama-Bar. There is always a vegetarian option for all meals on board.

In the Blois, guests have free access to the fitness center and wellness area, including indoor heated pool, a sauna, steam room, and hot tub. Free WiFI is available. All the air-conditioned rooms have a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

In Mont Saint-Michel, rooms are air conditioned. There is a bar and restaurant on site. Free WIFI is available.

Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.

Dress on tour is casual. Evening dinners aboard the ship will be a more elegant occasion, so we welcome you to dress in a business casual manner. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour. Toward the end of the cruise, a Captain’s Dinner will be held. For this dinner, we suggest (for the women) dress pants or skirt along with a blouse or sweater, or possibly a dress, and (for the men) dress pants along with a collared long-sleeved shirt or sweater, and possibly a blazer of some sort (blazer not required).

An outlet converter that adapts to European outlets is needed. You can find these at many stores, including Amazon and Walmart.

Travel Protection Available
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.