The Must-see Sights of
the Seine Valley (port-to-port
cruise)

Paris

It is impossible not to fall in love with Paris. The city is a
unique blend of iconic architecture, stylish fashion, hedonistic
cuisine and illustrious art, all beautifully laid out on the banks
of the river Seine.

Paris has nurtured the artistic talents of Monet, Van Gogh and
Picasso. Victor Hugo's
inspired the renovation of the
famous Gothic cathedral after which the tale was named. The concert
halls have hosted the premiere of Bizet's opera,
and the impressionist melodies of Claude Debussy.
Cabaret found its home in the bohemian neighbourhood of Montmartre,
where the notorious Moulin Rouge saw the invention of the Cancan
dance.

Paris owes much of its beauty and elegance to the vision of
Baron Haussmann, who renovated and modernised the city in the late
19th century. The city has contrived to remain untouched by
conflict or catastrophe over the years, so all of its history is
preserved in the new layout. Wide boulevards lead to squares lined
with facades built from the distinctive pale cream 'Paris stone'.
Haussman even designed new parks for the city. The Bois de Bologne
was inspired by Hyde Park in London.

Paris is a city for all seasons. Summer sees visitors and locals
alike relaxing on the banks of the Seine and sipping coffee on
sidewalk cafes. On autumn afternoons the brisk walk from the Eiffel
Tower through the Parc du Champ de Mars and up the glittering
Champs Elysees is carpeted with colourful fallen leaves. Visitors
in winter can take to the ice rink outside the Hotel de Ville,
while spring sees the city gardens burst into colour and the street
performers emerge to practice their trade.

Poissy

France is, quite simply, the world's leading tourist destination. This is the country that inspired Monet's reinvention of colour and the haunting harmonies of Claude Debussy. It has tantalised the taste buds with foie gras and frog legs, and captured the imagination of the world's jet-set with the resorts of St Tropez and Port Grimaud.

France emerged as a power following the Hundred Years' War. The country flourished as a centre of culture in the renaissance period and became a dominant European force during the reign of King Louis XIV and later Napoleon. This long and storied history has left a huge cultural legacy for visitors to enjoy.

History has seen the rise of castles, Gothic churches, walled towns, modern skyscrapers, and iconic structures such as the Pont du Gard and Eiffel Tower. There are 1200 museums housing the works of Picasso, Degas and Van Gogh. Magnificent concert halls carry the sounds of French composers. Market stalls, Parisian bistros and Michelin star restaurants offer up unique French fare, accompanied by Champage and Bordeaux wine. Flagship fashion edifices carrying 'haute couture' line the cobbles of the Champs Elysees.

From the cliffs and sand dunes of the north to the castles of the Loire valley, the majestic peaks of the Alps and the Pyrenees, the endless Mediterranean coastline of the Cote d'Azur, the oak forests on Corsica, and the Vineyards of Burgundy, France is an endless labyrinth of treasures. Millions arrive each year to rediscover the meaning of

Mantes-la-Jolie

Mantes was halfway between the centres of power of the dukes of Normandy at Rouen and the Kings of France at Paris. Along with most of northern France, it changed hands frequently in the Hundred Years' War. Louis XIV instituted the manufacture of musical instruments in Mantes, and it was chosen as the centre of brass and woodwind instrument manufacture. In the 19th century, painters were attracted to the town, particularly Corot, whose paintings of the bridge and the cathedral are celebrated. Prokofiev spent the summer of 1920 there orchestrating the ballet Chout.

Honfleur

Honfleur, located in the famous region of Normandy in northern France, is a charming and picturesque port town renowned for its rich maritime history, well-preserved architecture, and stunning natural beauty. With its cobbled streets, old harbor, and timber-framed houses, Honfleur attracts visitors from all over the world.

One of the main attractions of Honfleur is its historic port, known as Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor). This picturesque harbor is lined with colorful houses and old fishing boats, creating a postcard-perfect scene. It has inspired many famous painters, including Claude Monet, who captured the beauty of the harbor in his paintings. Strolling along the quays, visitors can soak up the atmosphere while enjoying the sight of the boats bobbing in the water.

Honfleur is also home to several historic and cultural landmarks. The Sainte-Catherine Church, built entirely out of wood in the 15th century, is a must-visit. Its unique separate bell tower stands tall beside the church, offering panoramic views of the town and the sea. The Eugene Boudin Museum, located in a former chapel, showcases a collection of works by artists who have been inspired by Honfleur's beauty.

For art enthusiasts, Honfleur is also a great place to explore the galleries and studios that are scattered throughout the town. The town's artistic heritage is further celebrated with the annual Impressionist Festival, which brings together artists, musicians, and performers from around the world.

Nature lovers will find Honfleur's surroundings equally captivating. The stunning cliffs and beaches of the nearby Cote Fleurie (Flowered Coast) provide a perfect spot for relaxation or leisurely walks. The Deauville beach, with its glamorous reputation and upscale resorts, is just a short drive away. In contrast, the more secluded beaches of Trouville-sur-Mer and Cabourg offer a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Honfleur is also a food lover's paradise. Its traditional Norman cuisine features a variety of dishes made with local products such as apples, cheese, and fresh seafood. The town's bustling market, held every Saturday, is a true feast for the senses where visitors can sample and purchase these delicious regional specialties.

Additionally, Honfleur serves as a great base for exploring the wider region of Normandy. The famous D-Day landing beaches, such as Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, are within driving distance. The historic city of Rouen, with its stunning cathedral and medieval architecture, is also easily accessible from Honfleur.

In terms of accommodation, Honfleur offers a range of options to suit all budgets. From charming boutique hotels and guesthouses to cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of choices for a comfortable stay.

Whether you are interested in history, art, nature, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Honfleur has something to offer to every traveler. With its timeless charm, vibrant atmosphere, and abundance of cultural and natural attractions, this delightful town is definitely worth a visit when exploring the beautiful region of Normandy in France.

Honfleur

Honfleur, located in the famous region of Normandy in northern France, is a charming and picturesque port town renowned for its rich maritime history, well-preserved architecture, and stunning natural beauty. With its cobbled streets, old harbor, and timber-framed houses, Honfleur attracts visitors from all over the world.

One of the main attractions of Honfleur is its historic port, known as Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor). This picturesque harbor is lined with colorful houses and old fishing boats, creating a postcard-perfect scene. It has inspired many famous painters, including Claude Monet, who captured the beauty of the harbor in his paintings. Strolling along the quays, visitors can soak up the atmosphere while enjoying the sight of the boats bobbing in the water.

Honfleur is also home to several historic and cultural landmarks. The Sainte-Catherine Church, built entirely out of wood in the 15th century, is a must-visit. Its unique separate bell tower stands tall beside the church, offering panoramic views of the town and the sea. The Eugene Boudin Museum, located in a former chapel, showcases a collection of works by artists who have been inspired by Honfleur's beauty.

For art enthusiasts, Honfleur is also a great place to explore the galleries and studios that are scattered throughout the town. The town's artistic heritage is further celebrated with the annual Impressionist Festival, which brings together artists, musicians, and performers from around the world.

Nature lovers will find Honfleur's surroundings equally captivating. The stunning cliffs and beaches of the nearby Cote Fleurie (Flowered Coast) provide a perfect spot for relaxation or leisurely walks. The Deauville beach, with its glamorous reputation and upscale resorts, is just a short drive away. In contrast, the more secluded beaches of Trouville-sur-Mer and Cabourg offer a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.

Honfleur is also a food lover's paradise. Its traditional Norman cuisine features a variety of dishes made with local products such as apples, cheese, and fresh seafood. The town's bustling market, held every Saturday, is a true feast for the senses where visitors can sample and purchase these delicious regional specialties.

Additionally, Honfleur serves as a great base for exploring the wider region of Normandy. The famous D-Day landing beaches, such as Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, are within driving distance. The historic city of Rouen, with its stunning cathedral and medieval architecture, is also easily accessible from Honfleur.

In terms of accommodation, Honfleur offers a range of options to suit all budgets. From charming boutique hotels and guesthouses to cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of choices for a comfortable stay.

Whether you are interested in history, art, nature, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Honfleur has something to offer to every traveler. With its timeless charm, vibrant atmosphere, and abundance of cultural and natural attractions, this delightful town is definitely worth a visit when exploring the beautiful region of Normandy in France.

Rouen

Rouen was the seat of the Exchequer of Normandy during the Middle Ages. It was one of the capitals of the Anglo-Norman dynasties, which ruled both England and large parts of modern France from the 11th to the 15th centuries. From the 13th century onwards. Endowed with a prestige established during the medieval era, and with a long architectural heritage in its historical monuments, Rouen is an important cultural capital. Several renowned establishments are located here, such as the Museum of Fine Arts, the Secq des Tournelles museum, and Rouen Cathedral.

Paris

It is impossible not to fall in love with Paris. The city is a
unique blend of iconic architecture, stylish fashion, hedonistic
cuisine and illustrious art, all beautifully laid out on the banks
of the river Seine.

Paris has nurtured the artistic talents of Monet, Van Gogh and
Picasso. Victor Hugo's
inspired the renovation of the
famous Gothic cathedral after which the tale was named. The concert
halls have hosted the premiere of Bizet's opera,
and the impressionist melodies of Claude Debussy.
Cabaret found its home in the bohemian neighbourhood of Montmartre,
where the notorious Moulin Rouge saw the invention of the Cancan
dance.

Paris owes much of its beauty and elegance to the vision of
Baron Haussmann, who renovated and modernised the city in the late
19th century. The city has contrived to remain untouched by
conflict or catastrophe over the years, so all of its history is
preserved in the new layout. Wide boulevards lead to squares lined
with facades built from the distinctive pale cream 'Paris stone'.
Haussman even designed new parks for the city. The Bois de Bologne
was inspired by Hyde Park in London.

Paris is a city for all seasons. Summer sees visitors and locals
alike relaxing on the banks of the Seine and sipping coffee on
sidewalk cafes. On autumn afternoons the brisk walk from the Eiffel
Tower through the Parc du Champ de Mars and up the glittering
Champs Elysees is carpeted with colourful fallen leaves. Visitors
in winter can take to the ice rink outside the Hotel de Ville,
while spring sees the city gardens burst into colour and the street
performers emerge to practice their trade.