Itinerary Snapshot
Day 1 – November 2
Arrive in Paris and transfer to your luxury riverboat moored along the Seine. The welcoming crew will help you settle into your elegantly appointed cabin before you gather with fellow travelers for a welcome dinner on board.
Arrive by 3pm local time to participate in the first day’s activities.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 2 – November 3
Enjoy a leisurely morning on board the ship as serene countryside glides past your window. After lunch on board, you arrive in Les Andelys, where the ruins of Château Gaillard crown the riverside cliffs. Built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century, this dramatic fortress once guarded the valley from invaders and offers sweeping views of the river below.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 3 – November 4
Discover Rouen, Normandy’s historic capital and one of Europe’s finest medieval cities. Admire the soaring Gothic cathedral immortalized in Claude Monet’s famous painting series and wander the beautifully tangled alleyways lined with antique shops and traditional restaurants. Visit the Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc was martyred in 1431. This afternoon, cruise downstream toward the charming town of Caudebec-en-Caux, arriving in time for a leisurely stroll before dinner. Tonight, enjoy live French music performed by a guitarist on board.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 4 – November 5
Journey through Normandy’s historic countryside to Bayeux, where you’ll have free time to explore the medieval town and its magnificent cathedral. Continue to Pointe du Hoc, where Allied Rangers scaled 100-foot cliffs during the D-Day invasion, then visit the Omaha Beach Memorial, the site of the most intense confrontation of June 6, 1944, where nearly 34,000 Allied forces landed to liberate occupied Europe. Explore the remarkably preserved German fortifications at Longues sur Mer Battery, part of the Atlantic Wall, with its massive coastal artillery pieces and concrete bunkers overlooking the English Channel. Return to your riverboat in the late afternoon, passing Pegasus Bridge en route, with dinner enjoyed at your leisure this evening.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 5 – November 6
Explore picturesque Honfleur, often regarded as the most beautiful spot on the northern French coast. The old harbor, sheltered by pastel-colored 16th to 18th-century houses, has inspired countless artists including Eugene Boudin, one of the forerunners of Impressionism. Watch local painters capturing the captivating waterfront views and wander the maze of streets lined with traditional shops selling antiques and fine foods. Enjoy lunch on your own to sample the town’s renowned seafood before returning to the ship for an afternoon cruise back upstream.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 6 – November 7
After breakfast in Vernon, take a short drive to Giverny to visit Claude Monet’s house and garden. The artist himself called his garden his most beautiful masterpiece, and it remains one of the world’s most photographed landscapes. Wander through the Japanese-inspired water garden with its famous lily pond, shaded by great weeping willows and surrounded by bamboo and rhododendrons. This afternoon, explore Vernon’s quaint medieval buildings before embarking on your final cruise to Paris. Tonight, celebrate with the Chef’s Dinner, a truly memorable occasion featuring the chef’s signature dishes served in the elegant restaurant.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 7 – November 8
You have arrived in Paris. This morning, join an active walking tour through the heart of the city from Place des Vosges past the Hôtel de Ville and Notre-Dame to the Louvre and Jardin des Tuileries. After lunch, enjoy a free afternoon to explore at your own pace. Stroll along the Champs-Élysées, browse the historic Galeries Lafayette, or visit the Musée d’Orsay with its extraordinary Impressionist collection. This evening, enjoy live accordion music featuring famous French melodies.
Overnight: MS Jane Austen Ship
Day 8 – November 9
After breakfast, disembark from your riverboat and transfer to your Parisian hotel near the Arc de Triomphe. This morning, visit the magnificent Louvre Museum, home to world-renowned masterpieces including the Mona Lisa, the Venus de Milo, and countless treasures spanning human history. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring the city on your own. Perhaps wander through the elegant Tuileries Gardens, shop along the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, or simply relax at a sidewalk café watching Parisian life unfold. This evening, gather for a spectacular farewell dinner and show at the legendary Moulin Rouge, where dazzling costumes, world-class dancers, and the iconic can-can create an unforgettable finale to your French adventure.
Overnight: Hidden Hotel or Equivalent
Day 9 – November 10
Enjoy a final Parisian breakfast before your private transfer to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your departure flight home, carrying memories of medieval villages, historic battlefields, artistic inspiration, and the timeless magic of Paris.
*Please note that this is a tentative itinerary and it is subject to change.
Highlights
Iconic Landmarks
Culture & History
Art & Nature
Pricing & Inclusions
WHAT’S INCLUDED:
7 nights aboard a luxury riverboat
1 night boutique hotel accommodations in Paris
Single occupancy rooms throughout
Daily breakfast & group dinner, plus 6 lunches
Airport transfers on arrival and departure
All guided tours and excursions as listed in itinerary
Entrance fees to Château Gaillard, Rouen Cathedral, Monet's Garden, and the Louvre Museum
Moulin Rouge show and dinner
Services of a Women Travel Abroad tour host throughout
All gratuities for local guides and drivers
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:
International airfare to / from Paris (CDG)
Travel insurance
Items of a personal nature
Meals and drinks not listed above
Gratuities and tips for personal services
Any optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Is This Tour For Me?

Physical Rating - Level 3 - Moderate
- Distance/Pace: Able to participate in walking tours of 2-3 miles with a steady pace.
- Terrain: Includes moderate inclines and multiple flights of stairs.
- Duration: Activities may require up to 2 hours of walking or standing, with fewer breaks.
- Additional: Ideal for travelers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy consistent activity.
Travel Style: City
Age requirement: 18+

Michelle Alexander


















