Art along the Seine: Heritage, Impressionism and the Norman Art of Living

from€1339
for 4 nights
The Eiffel Tower illuminated at night in Paris, reflecting on the Seine River, a romantic sight on a Paris river cruise. 1
MS Renoir cruise ship on the Seine River, with the Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Assemblée Nationale, and Pont Alexandre III in the background.
Charming Place des Abbesses in Montmartre, Paris, with a carousel and the Abbesses Métro station entrance, a delightful stop on a Paris river cruise.
MS Renoir docked in Rouen, with Rouen Cathedral as a backdrop, showcasing a cultural highlight of a Seine River cruise.
Experience Paris and The Cancan is known for its fast pace, athleticism, and infectious energy.
Elegant dining room onboard the MS Botticelli river cruise ship. Tables set for a meal with large windows showing the Seine River. Cosy atmosphere for enjoying French cuisine.
Relaxing on the MS Botticelli sundeck, enjoying views of the French Vexin natural reserve. Sun loungers line the deck, perfect for soaking up the sun and scenery on your river cruise.
Another view of the MS Botticelli's dining room, showcasing the elegant table settings and spacious layout. Enjoy delicious meals with fellow travellers in a relaxed and stylish atmosphere.
A wooden spoon rests on a rustic table amidst a scattering of dark chocolate squares, cocoa powder, and chocolate macarons with a cracked shell.
The majestic Arc de Triomphe in Paris stands tall against a blue sky with fluffy white clouds. Cars circle the Place Charles de Gaulle, and the Champs-Élysées stretches beyond.
Cocktails being prepared at the bar onboard the MS Renoir. Two vibrant red drinks with straws and umbrellas sit on the counter, while a bartender shakes another. A variety of spirits line the back.
The MS Seine Princess river cruise ship moored on the Seine at night, with the illuminated Eiffel Tower in the background. A magical Paris scene.
Impressionist paintings displayed in a grand hall with arched windows at the Musée d'Orsay, Paris. Artworks include paintings displayed on easels and hung on walls.
The Grande Roue de Paris Ferris wheel at Place de la Concorde, Paris, lit up at dusk during Christmas. The Luxor Obelisk and festive decorations are also visible.
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The Pont Neuf bridge in Paris, spanning the Seine River. Historic architecture lines the riverbanks under a bright blue sky. Iconic Parisian view.
A vibrant mural depicting the French Cancan at the La Nouvelle Eve cabaret in Paris. Showgirls in colourful costumes dance on stage, surrounded by an audience.
Notre Dame Cathedral, Paris, gothic architecture, Ile de la Cité, Seine River, cityscape
Le Petit Train de Montmartre, a charming vintage train ride through the cobblestone streets of Paris.
Sacré-Cœur Basilica, Montmartre, Paris. White dome, cross, hilltop location, blue sky.
Inside the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, Paris. Stunning mosaic of Christ Pantocrator, soaring dome, ornate interior.
Musée d'Orsay in Paris, with the Eiffel Tower visible in the distance. View from across the Seine, showcasing the museum's stunning architecture.
CroisiEurope river cruise ships docked at Quai de Grenelle, Paris, at night. Eiffel Tower illuminated in the background, city lights reflecting on the Seine.

Sail along the Seine on a cruise devoted to art and heritage. From Paris to Honfleur, discover iconic landmarks and prestigious museums, from the Château de Martainville to the Eugène Boudin Museum, via the Museum of Fine Arts in Rouen and the Petit Palais in Paris. Between cultural excursions, oyster tastings, onboard lectures and Normandy landscapes, let yourself be captivated by elegance and the French art of living.

What’s Included in Your River Cruise

  • Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
  • Flight from Dublin to Paris
  • 10kg check-in bag per person
  • Transfer from the Airport to the River Quay
  • 5 nights accommodation onboard the 5* MS Renoir based on two sharing
  • Full Board basis from dinner on the first evening to breakfast on the morning of departure
  • Welcome Cocktail
  • Drinks included
  • Gala evening
  • Cabaret Show
  • Transfer from the River Quay to the Airport
  • Flight from Paris to Dublin

Did you Know?

  • The Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be a temporary structure for the 1889 World’s Fair. It was so popular that it was decided to keep it up, and it has since become one of the most recognizable symbols of Paris.  
  • Montmartre was once a rural village outside of Paris. It wasn’t until the 19th century that it became a part of the city.   
  • The Cancan dance was originally performed in music halls and cabarets in Paris. It is a high-energy dance that is characterized by its fast-paced movements and high kicks. 
  • The Sacré-Cœur Basilica is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Paris. It is located on the highest point in the city and offers stunning views of the city skyline. 
  • Le Petit Train de Montmartre is a fun way to see the sights of Montmartre. The train takes visitors on a tour of the neighbourhood, stopping at various points of interest.   
  • Notre-Dame Cathedral is one of the most famous Gothic cathedrals in the world. It was built in the 12th and 13th centuries and is a masterpiece of medieval architecture.  
  • The Musée d’Orsay is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. It is housed in a former railway station and is a popular destination for art lovers from all over the world.   

Cruise Highlights

  • Fresh oyster tasting in Honfleur
  • Onboard lectures
  • THE MUST-SEES:
    • The Château de Martainville, a journey into the heart of Norman traditions
    • The Eugène Boudin Museum, dedicated to the painters of Honfleur and to Normandy’s artistic and maritime heritage
    • Visit of the Petit Palais, an architectural gem housing the Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris

Over 55 years? Join our 55Club! Click here for more info.

” Hi Eleanor and Chloe,
This was my first time to travel with Travel Escapes and my first river cruise. It was a wonderful trip, the boat was lovely, food and service amazing. Delightful, friendly and helpful staff.
Excursion’s interesting and enjoyable. Enjoyed the evening entertainment and especially loved cruising on the Seine by night.
Overall, it was a great experience and I would highly recommend this cruise and Travel Escapes
Thank you , Eleanor and Chloe for your advice and assistance
Kind regards, Annette ”   

Annette travelled on this cruise from 01st-04th November 2024

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MS Renoir cruise ship on the Seine River, with the Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Assemblée Nationale, and Pont Alexandre III in the background.
MS Renoir docked in Rouen, with Rouen Cathedral as a backdrop, showcasing a cultural highlight of a Seine River cruise.
MS Renoir

MS Renoir sails on the Seine River.

RESTAURANT
Located on the upper deck, the restaurant is where all meals are served during your cruise. It seats all guests at tables which vary in size with a panoramic view. The atmosphere is casual but elegant.

LOUNGE BAR WITH DANCEFLOOR
The lounge tastefully decorated, is located at the front of the ship and offers panoramic views. Cocktails and games, dancing, and other forms of entertainment all happen here.

SUN DECK
Take advantage of the sun deck to relax! It is equipped with chairs and deckchairs, allowing you to cool off while enjoying a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes.

RECEPTION DESK
Perfect place to meet with friends before excursions or to ask any information you may need to the staff. The Gift Shop is also located here, you’ll find a wide assortment of souvenirs, CroisiEurope products and post cards.

FITNESS
Start your day by joining us for a morning fitness class on the sun deck.

 

CroisiEurope
Prices
Dates Ship Price
16 Feb 2027 Main deck €1339 Book Now
16 Feb 2027 Upper deck €1539 Book Now
Agent
Celine K
Celine K
Phone:
01-2941000
Email:
book@travelescapes.ie
Booking Remarks
Prices are per person based on two sharing
Inclusive of taxes and service charges as indicated
Non-refundable or transferable booking deposit €300 per person. Full payment due 16 weeks before departure
Adequate travel Insurance is required
Entrance fees to attractions, if necessary, are not included.
Prices are correct at time of going to press,
Single cabin supplement from €350
Good to Know
Please note that this is our planned itinerary but sometimes due to circumstances outside our control, we may have to alter it slightly.

Please note all of our tours include some level of walking activity and may include ascending/descending steps. They are not suitable for people with walking difficulties and/or limited mobility
Itinerary
Day 1

Paris, France

Your ship will be ready for boarding at 6.00 pm on your arrival day. One of CroisiEurope’s many prestigious “floating hotels”. Located at the mooring point in Paris. You are welcomed on board by the hostess and once settled into your cabin dinner on board is followed by a “Titi Parisien” cabaret show.

Day 2

Paris, France

Les Andelys, France

In the morning, an onboard lecture will be offered on the theme of art and Impressionism along the Seine. Immerse yourself in the history of this artistic movement through the landscapes, towns and atmospheres that inspired artists such as Monet, Renoir and Sisley. A journey combining art, history and light, enriched with anecdotes and emblematic Impressionist works.

In the afternoon, optional excursion: visit of the Château de Martainville. Built in the 16th century by Jacques Le Pelletier, a shipowner from Rouen, the château later underwent major transformations under his nephew, who inherited his fortune. It became one of the earliest examples of Norman Renaissance architecture. Today, it houses the Museum of Norman Traditions and Arts, whose outstanding collections retrace the history of the arts and popular traditions of Upper Normandy. More than 15,000 works are permanently on display.

Return on board and continue cruising towards Honfleur.

Day 3

Honfleur, France

In the morning, optional excursion: visit of the Eugène Boudin Museum. Tucked away in one of Honfleur’s most picturesque streets, this visit invites you to discover the authentic soul of Normandy, blending artistic heritage with gourmet pleasures. Opened in 1869, this emblematic museum celebrates artists who found endless inspiration in the region, from the Romantics to the Impressionists. As you explore, you will discover a rich and varied space enhanced by the charming chapel of the former Augustinian convent. Over three levels, the museum presents a remarkable Norman ethnographic collection, a section devoted to 20th-century painters, and numerous works by Eugène Boudin himself.

After this cultural immersion, extend the experience on the port of Honfleur with a tasting of fresh oysters. A true local institution, this gourmet moment allows you to savour the briny flavours of the Norman coast in an authentic and convivial setting. Art, history and gastronomy combine to offer a refined and typically Norman interlude in the heart of Honfleur.

In the afternoon, optional excursion: visit of the André Malraux Museum of Modern Art. Opened in 1961 on the seafront in Le Havre, the André Malraux Museum of Modern Art—better known as MuMa—is a striking example of architecture dedicated to space and light. Fully open to the horizon, it captivates visitors with its modern lines and bold design. The museum houses one of the richest Impressionist collections in France, as well as major Fauvist works, offering an artistic panorama spanning nearly five centuries. Follow in the footsteps of artists linked to the city, such as Claude Monet, Raoul Dufy, Othon Friesz and Georges Braque. An immersive and luminous visit, ideal for discovering the evolution of modern painting in an exceptional setting between sea and artistic creation.

Norman Evening on board. Celebrating regional conviviality and traditions, enjoy a menu featuring local produce: cheeses, apples, cider and regional sweets. Afterwards, gather in the lounge bar to the rhythm of traditional songs and melodies.

Day 4

Honfleur, France

Rouen, France

Morning cruise through the enchanting landscapes of the Seine. Admire the chalk cliffs, Norman villages and the majestic meanders of the river. Each bend reveals a rich heritage, from abbeys to hilltop châteaux that fascinated the Impressionists. Join the lounge bar and test your knowledge with an interactive game dedicated to the Impressionists, discovering Monet, Renoir, Pissarro and the landscapes that inspired their finest works.

In the afternoon, optional excursion: Rouen Museum of Fine Arts. Dive into the heart of French artistic heritage with one of the most prestigious collections in France. Through a captivating itinerary, admire paintings, sculptures, drawings and decorative arts spanning several centuries, from the late Middle Ages to the great Impressionist movements. Each gallery invites you to travel through art history and discover iconic masterpieces in an elegant and accessible setting. Marvel at works by masters such as Alfred Sisley, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissarro and Claude Monet.

Gala evening on board and overnight sailing towards Paris.

Day 5

Rouen, France

Paris, France

In the morning, an onboard lecture will explore the theme of French royalty. A journey through history, power and the traditions of the French monarchy, illustrated with anecdotes and emblematic examples of national heritage. The lecture will be followed by a discussion on major royal figures and their influence on French culture. A captivating immersion offering a fresh perspective on the splendour, symbols and legacy of royalty through the centuries.

In the afternoon, optional excursion: visit of the Petit Palais (2). Discover the charm and elegance of the Petit Palais through a unique guided tour combining heritage, art and history. Built by Charles Girault for the 1900 World’s Fair, this architectural jewel now houses the Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris. Before exploring this exceptional monument, enjoy a guided stroll in its surroundings, between the Seine and the Champs-Élysées. Inside, be enchanted by the richness of the décor—mosaics, frescoes, stained glass and wrought ironwork that have made the site famous. Admire the magnificent vaulted galleries, busts of renowned artists and the celebrated dome by Maurice Denis, for a true immersion in Parisian refinement.

Winter Guinguette Dance Evening on board. In a warm and friendly atmosphere, accompanied by winter melodies, enjoy a convivial moment reminiscent of traditional popular festivities and evenings along the water.

Day 6

Paris, France

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking for your transfer back to the airport.

View full itinerary