A cruise on the winding path of the Seine takes you to some of the most iconic sights of Paris, the pastoral farmland of Normandy and offers a chance to taste some of the best food and wine France has to offer.
Flowing northwest from the Burgundy region of France near Dijon through Paris to the English Channel between Le Havre and Honfleur, the Seine is often called “the beating heart of Paris.” In the city, the northern side of the river is described as the Right Bank (Rive Droite) and the southern side as the Left Bank (Rive Gauche). It passes under 37 bridges in the city of lights, forming a picturesque backdrop for artists who have been inspired by these scenes of Paris for centuries. If you’re dreaming of your first visit to Paris, or planning to revisit favourite sights, a Seine River cruise offers new perspective on this magnificent region. Here are our top 5 sights on a Seine River cruise.
Visit the home of Impressionist painter Claude Monet featuring the famous Japanese bridge and water lily pond that inspired his most well-known series of work. Monet lived in this village in Normandy for more than 40 years until his death in 1926. The house and studio reflect the artist’s love of colour, but the gardens—designed and cultivated by Monet—are the inspiration for much of his work. Monet’s home is the second most visited tourist attraction in Normandy, France (after the tidal island and abbey of Mont-Saint-Michel) and attracts visitors from around the world between April and November. Stop at the Museum of Impressionism and take a stroll through the scenic lanes of Giverny and the quintessential French countryside.
The elaborate facade of the Rouen Cathedral made the gothic building famous, along with being featured in a series of 30 works by Claude Monet. Construction began in the 12th century and evolved to include styles from early gothic to renaissance-era architecture as it was built and rebuilt over 800 years. From 1876 to 1880, the Rouen Cathedral held the title of the tallest building in the world. During the summer months, the cathedral is the site of a nightly “Cathedral of Light” show. Rouen is also associated with epic story of Joan of Arc, you’ll find the tower where she was imprisoned as well as a modern church that honours her legacy.
Built by England’s King Richard the Lionheart in 1196, dramatic Château Gaillard is a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Stop at the ruins of this grand castle, offering stunning views of the Seine. Stroll the quaint streets of Les Andelys and enjoy traditional Normandy style and charming cafes.
Colourful half-timbered houses along with art galleries and restaurants are lined up side-by-side in the pretty port town of Honfleur. With its picturesque placement on the Seine estuary, it’s no wonder Honfleur is one of the most popular places to visit in France. The area’s beauty has long inspired artists, and their works are found in many of the town’s museums and galleries. Claude Monet’s mentor Eugéne Boudin was born in Honfleur, and Monet and his contemporaries would often set up their easels on the hill above the town. Explore the estuary that inspired the artists, take a stroll in the public gardens and visit the Chapel of Notre-Dame de Grâce. Spend some time in the Vieux Bassin—the heart of the port—where shops fight for space in this extraordinarily picturesque setting, and restaurants set up outdoor seating across the cobbles.
Take in the iconic sights of the city of lights with a new and breathtaking perspective from the river known as the beating heart of the Paris. Most river cruises allow for ample time to explore the gothic architecture and intricate carvings of Notre-Dame Cathedral, masterworks including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo at the Louvre and the food, wine and ambiance of this magnificent city.
Are you ready to experience the rich culture, heritage and tastes of France on a cruise of the Seine?
