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VIKING RIVER CRUISES 15 Days | France's Finest Southbound

PARIS TO AVIGNON Day 1 | Paris, France. Arrive in Paris, romance capital of the world. Transfer from the Charles de Gaulle airport to your ship. After boarding, take free time to explore Paris—or join our “welcome walk” to stretch your legs and start getting oriented. (D) Day 2 | Paris.  Wake up to a full day in Paris. After breakfast, embark on a half-day tour of this beautiful city and take in its most remarkable sights, including the famous Eiffel Tower. Continue past the École Militaire, Orsay Museum and Latin Quarter. See the Cathedral of Notre Dame, then drive past the Louvre and Opera House and along the famous Champs Elysées. Return aboard for lunch. Afternoon is free to visit the Louvre, shop the many boutiques, visit the artists’ district of Montmartre or enjoy a cruise along the Seine—as always, your Program Director can help you plan your free time. Dinner is served aboard. (B, L, D) Day 3 | Giverny. Vernon.  This morning, take a short ride into the town of Giverny, where Claude Monet lived from 1883 until his death in 1926. Visit the beautiful gardens and charming stone farmhouse where he lived and worked; see the water garden with its Japanese bridge, water lilies, wisteria and azaleas that inspired many of his masterpieces. ??After lunch, we spend some time in the provincial town of Vernon. Take a stroll to see the Maison du Temps Jadis (House of Past Times), Vernon’s oldest house, and the 11th-century Church of Notre Dame. Dinner is served aboard. (B, L, D) Day 4 | Rouen. Indulge in a leisurely morning cruising along the Seine. The afternoon is spent in the medieval city of Rouen, historic capital of Normandy. Begin with a walking tour through the old town center, where you see the spectacular Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral so often painted by Claude Monet and the famous Gros Horloge, a 16th-century astronomical clock. As you walk among the half-timbered buildings you feel yourself transported back through time. Finally, we visit the 14th-century courthouse where Joan of Arc was sentenced to death and the nearby Market Square where she was martyred. Take free time to discover more of Rouen or visit one of its museums of art or antiquities. Dine aboard, or visit a sidewalk café—your ship remains docked overnight. (B, L, D) Day 5 | Normandy Beaches. After breakfast, begin your full-day tour to the historic beaches of Normandy. See World War II landmarks such as Omaha Beach, the American Military Cemetery and Arromanches Debarkment Museum. On the way back to the ship, pass Gold Beach, Courseulles sur Mer and Juno Beach. Have dinner and relax on board or take an evening stroll. (B, L, D) Day 6 | Les Andelys. Conflans.  Enjoy a leisurely morning cruise to the small town of Les Andelys, known for its imposing castle, Château Gaillard, built in 1196 by Richard the Lionheart. After lunch, join a guided walk to this fatally flawed masterpiece of Middle Ages architecture. Return aboard for scenic cruising and dinner aboard. Late in the evening we dock in Conflans, a riverside town whose unique culture reflects its status as a local hub for barge transportation along the Seine and its tributaries. (B, L, D) Day 7 | Conflans. Paris.  After breakfast, take a walking tour through the charming neighborhoods of Conflans and visit its museum. Or, join an optional tour to the luxurious Palace of Versailles, former home of Louis XIV. Lunch aboard as you sail back to Paris this afternoon. Dine aboard and then enjoy some free time in the City of Light. (B, L, D) Day 8 | Paris. Chalon-sur-Saône. After breakfast, disembark and enjoy a leisurely ride through the countryside of east central France from Paris to Chalon-sur-Saône. Stop for lunch in picturesque Dijon, with its many churches, its Porte Guillaume (a miniature Arc de Triomphe) and its museums, including one devoted to steak and mustard. Continue to Chalon-sur-Saône to board your second ship. A welcome dinner is served on board. (B, D) Day 9 | Beaune. Burgundy Wine Tour. After breakfast, take a scenic drive along France’s Burgundy wine route through Pommard, Volnay and Meursault. Arrive in Beaune, wine capital of Burgundy, for a guided tour of beautiful Hôtel Dieu, founded as a hospice in 1443. Learn about local viticulture and enjoy a wine-tasting at one of Beaune’s famous cellars. Return to your ship for lunch; the afternoon is at leisure to explore more of picturesque Beaune or visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts. Dine aboard as you set sail through Burgundy. (B, L, D) Day 10 | Lyon.  After a morning cruise through the picturesque countryside and lunch aboard, take an afternoon tour of Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin with a drive to the top of Fourvière Hill for amazing views of the city. Visit the Basilica of Notre Dame and drive through town past the magnificent St. Jean Cathedral and the Palace of Justice. Then take a walking tour through the cobbled streets of Vieux Lyon (Old Town), with free time to shop for souvenirs or sample some of the fine French cuisine for which Lyon is world-famous. Dinner served aboard. (B, L, D) Day 11 | Lyon. Vienne. The morning is free to further explore this remarkable 2,000-year-old city in the heart of France. Depart just before lunchtime. This afternoon, take a walking tour of Vienne, a beautiful town with an ancient Roman past. Visit the Temple of Augustus & Livia, the Roman amphitheater and the Gothic Cathedral of St. Maurice; then spend some time discovering more of this charming riverside town on your own. Dine aboard and depart this evening. (B, L, D) Day 12 | Tournon. Viviers. Awake in Tournon and take a ride to Châteauneuf-sur-Isère near Tain l’Hermitage. During a guided tour of the area, learn about the region’s winemaking traditions and taste some famous regional red wines. Then visit the Musée de Tain l’Hermitage located in the oldest house in the region. Lunch aboard and cruise through the afternoon; arrive after dinner in Viviers, a quaint town in a mountainous setting. Join your Program Director for an evening stroll through the Old Town with its medieval and Renaissance buildings. Enjoy free time before retiring for the evening. (B, L, D) Day 13 | Arles.  Arrive during breakfast and meet your guide for a walking tour of Arles with its diverse architectural highlights. Experience the city’s vibrant colors and the striking quality of light that have inspired artists. Arles is also the site of some impressive Roman ruins, including Les Arènes, an arena that seats 20,000 and is still in use, as well as beautiful Romanesque monuments such as Saint-Trôphime, completed in the 15th century. Return aboard for lunch followed by afternoon free time to explore or shop for handcrafted gifts. Dinner is served as you depart. (B, L, D) Day 14 | Avignon.  This morning, set out on a guided walk of Avignon, nicknamed “City of Popes” because it was home to seven popes from 1309 to 1377. Stroll through the historic center, stop at the picturesque Pont d’Avignon and walk the Place de l’Horloge. Continue to the renowned Palace of the Popes for a guided tour through this rambling maze of Gothic architecture which served as papal residence, fortress, church and palace. You can join the optional tour to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, visiting the vineyards and tasting the famous wine. Lunch and dinner served aboard. Your ship remains docked overnight. (B, L, D) Day 15 | Avignon. After breakfast, disembark and proceed to the Marseille airport for your return flight. Or, enjoy more of France with 2 nights in Marseille and a visit to Aix-en-Provence. (B) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

France’s Finest

• From $5,399
• 13 Guided Tours
• Dates & Pricing

Please call for availability. To find another option, begin your search here.

For current fares, please call a viking expert: 1-800-304-9616 or request a quote today., summer solstice sale.

*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare. Strikeout fares reflect our Standard Cruise Fare.

*All prices are per person based on double occupancy and reflect our Special Cruise Fare.

DEPARTURE GATEWAYS

Air fare offer applies to select gateways; air fare offer may vary across gateways and itineraries; call for details.

Departure dates and room type filter

Viking Inclusive Value

More features, services and excursions included.

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Booking Terms & Conditions >

Booking Terms & Conditions

2024-2026 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from June 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by June 30, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offers expires June 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to November 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to January 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:   Cruise fares listed are cruise only in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and for US residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings made June 1—June 30 2024, are subject to availability; may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Credit and Viking Referral Rewards. Special cruise fares are based upon published full cruise fares; cruise fares do not include prepaid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full cruise fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to economy, roundtrip flights only from select Viking River Cruises US gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. All fares include cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires June 30, 2024. Note: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

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Viking Expeditions

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• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

France’s Finest

• From $7,699
• 13 Guided Tours
• Dates & Pricing

Please call for availability. To find another option, begin your search here.

For current fares, please call a viking expert: 1-800-207-7286 or request a quote today., summer solstice sale.

*All prices are per-person based on double occupancy and reflect our current offers.

DEPARTURE GATEWAYS

Air fare offer applies to select gateways; air fare offer may vary across gateways and itineraries; call for details.

Departure dates and room type filter

Viking Inclusive Value

More features, services and excursions included.

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Booking Terms & Conditions >

Booking Terms & Conditions

2024-2026 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from June 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London DDAY & Paris, Rhine & Main Explorer . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in CA dollars and for CA residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by June 30, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by August 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offers expires June 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to November 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to January 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS: Cruise fares listed are cruise only in CAD dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and for CA residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings made June 1, 2024 to June 30, 2024, are subject to availability; may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Credit and Viking Referral Rewards. Special cruise fares are based upon published full cruise fares; cruise fares do not include prepaid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full cruise fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to economy, roundtrip flights only from select Viking River Cruises CA gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. All fares include cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information on  Airline Luggage Restrictions  or to learn more about allowances and general airline information visit  Airline Information & Restrictions . AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $999 CAD per person or Business Class air from $4,499 CAD per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

AIR OFFER RESTRICTIONS:  Offer expires June 30, 2024.

NOTE:  North American flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

Sign up to receive updates from Viking

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4 Best Viking River Cruises in France

Viking River Cruises is among the world’s best river cruise lines. In fact, it basically invented the whole concept singlehandedly, creating a new niche in the cruise market that proved to be super-popular among the cruising audience. This multi-award-winning company offers river cruises all over Europe, but some of their top itineraries run through France. In this post, we wanted to highlight the three best Viking River cruises in France.

France is a nation of rivers. Its major cities originated on riverbanks, at strategic intersections between roads and rivers. Paris was established along the Seine, Strasbourg on the banks of the Rhine and Lyon along the Rhône, just to name a few. France’s riverbanks are also where much of its cultural life happened/happens, from the wineries of Bordeaux to the perfect painting light in Provence.

So, if you really want to experience France at its finest, hop on one of four best Viking River cruises in France.

1. Lyon & Provence Cruise

Provence is one of France’s most famous regions, a place characterized by endless lavender fields, stone buildings, medieval towns, sunflowers and wineries. This is the place of Van Gogh and Cézanne, who with their artwork captured these landscapes forever.

The Lyon and Provence Cruise starts in Avignon and takes you to gorgeous towns like Arles, Viviers and Tournon before ending in Lyon. In Lyon, you’ll have no fewer than three days to explore this spectacular city, which is considered to be France’s culinary center. This 8-day Viking River cruise in France is packed with fun activities and memorable sights, including the Palace of the Popes in Avignon, gastronomy in Lyon, truffle hunting and Beaujolais wine tasting.

• Destinations: Avignon, Arles, Viviers, Tournon and Lyon
• Duration: 8 days
• Price: from $2,199
• Call for exclusive pricing: 866-867-6538

2. Chateaux, Rivers & Wine Cruise

This Bordeaux-to-Bordeaux cruise is absolute perfect to explore France’s premier wine region. You’ll spend eight days sailing through Aquitaine, which at one point was the wealthiest kingdom in all of Europe. This is where you’ll find the most imposing castles and chateaux, some of the world’s most famous vineyards and truly superb seafood .

Offering all sorts of one-of-a-kind experiences, from creating your own cognac to sampling the finest oysters in the country, the Chateaux, Rivers & Wine Cruise will be remembered for the rest of your life. If you’re after wining and dining, this is without question one of the best Viking River cruises in France. Additionally, Bordeaux itself is home to tons of historical architecture and heritage. Paris is the only French city that has more historic monuments!

• Destinations: Bordeaux, Cadillac, Libourne, Bourg and Blaye, and Pauillac
• Price: from $2,399

3. Paris & The Heart Of Normandy Cruise

Anyone who wants to explore the northwest of France should take a close look at this eight-day Paris & the Heart of Normandy cruise . This round-trip voyage from Paris takes passengers through Giverny, the location of quaint farmsteads and glorious gardens. It’s where Claude Monet used to live, thes beautiful landscapes featured abundantly in his paintings. You’ll also pay a visit to historic Rouen, where you can walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc.

Also included in the itinerary are visits to some of the most iconic World War II D-Day beaches in Normandy, such as Juno Beach, Omaha Beach and Gold Beach. Sailing up and down the seine, you’ll also pass through scenic towns like Les Andelys, known for its Chateau Gaillard, and Mantes-la-Jolie. Of course, they’ll be plenty of chances to sample mouthwatering French cuisine, too.

• Destinations:  Paris, Vernon, Rouen, Normandy beaches, Les Andelys and Mantes-la-Jolie
• Price: from $1,999

4. France’s Finest Cruise

For a varied taste—literally and figuratively—of what France has to offer, there’s no better Viking River cruise in France than this one. Its name, France’s Finest Cruise , is not a lie. This 15-day cruise combines two individual cruises by Viking River Cruises: the above-mentioned Paris & the Heart of Normandy and Lyon & Provence cruises.

It allows you to explore Paris and northwestern France, as well as Lyon, the Provence and southeastern France. In terms of variety, it doesn’t really get any better than this. From the urban, cultural delights of Paris and World War II beaches to world-class cuisine in Lyon and Roman history in Provence, this might just be the best “France in a nutshell” cruise in the world.

• Destinations: Paris, Vernon, Rouen, Normandy beaches, Les Andelys, Mantes-la-Jolie, Lyon, Vienne, Tournon, Avignon, Arles
• Duration: 15 days
• Price: from $4,299

We’ve selected these four best Viking River cruises in France because of the variety they offer. From wines in the Bordeaux region to art and food in Provence to architecture in history in Paris and Normandy, if you like typical French things, you’ll find plenty of them on one of these cruises.

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Born and raised in Belgium, Bram is currently based in the Pacific Northwest where he spends his days blogging, hiking, indulging in freshly roasted coffee and sipping craft beers. An experienced traveler, his… More about Bram R

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7 Things I Loved About Viking’s Paris & The Heart Of Normandy River Cruise

• Cruises and Sailing
• Destinations
• Types of Travel
• Viking Cruises

Being an experienced cruise lover, I was thrilled to be invited and hosted by Viking River Cruises to experience the Paris & the Heart of Normandy sailing. This was a special route for me as both of my grandfathers landed in Normandy during World War II. I had dreamed about visiting for most of my life. I also knew Viking Cruises would do an exceptional job showcasing the area, as I am a repeat cruiser with them. Here is what I loved about experiencing France with Viking River Cruises.

1. A Fantastic Paris To Normandy Itinerary

When picking out cruise itineraries, finding places near and dear to your heart and spending your money toward that goal is essential. As mentioned above, this itinerary caught my attention. Our cruise started in Paris, with an overnight and 2 days of sightseeing.

We visited smaller, lesser-known towns that kept us out of heavy-traffic areas. This also brought us to interesting ports of call.

Besides Paris, we visited the towns of La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Rouen (with overnights), Normandy beaches, Les Pecq, and Les Andelys along the Seine River.

Scenic cruising is also a big part of European river cruising. We cruised by several places that were perfect for sightseeing from our small Viking Fjorgyn verandas.

2. French History

I love any reason to learn things that help me answer Jeopardy questions. How about you? I learned a lot about French culture, history, and, most definitely, its famous artists on my Paris & the Heart of Normandy sailing.

In Les Andelys, a charming old Norman village, were the ruins of King Richard the Lion Heart’s 12th-century fortress, Chateau Gaillard, perched atop a majestic hill. Rouen offered a picturesque cathedral painted more than 30 times by Claude Monet.

I was most surprised that we went to and toured Vincent van Gogh’s last residence and burial site in Auvers-Sur-Oise. This site is a pilgrimage for art enthusiasts and has a picturesque setting. Van Gogh is buried alongside his brother, Theo.

Fun Fact: Though we didn’t stop in Giverny, France, because there is no safe place to pull over for a better view, we did see Claude Monet’s famous gardens and home of 40 years.

3. Paris Food Tour

I’ve taken my share of food tours worldwide, but having a Paris food tour offering on Viking River Cruises was a no-brainer. Our small group roamed the city on foot and by Paris Metro to taste our way through five or six local hotspots.

At one place, we sampled olive oils, vinegar, and honey. We had a trio of desserts at another spot with French coffee and hot tea. The stop I liked best was at a brewery for a cheese plate and glass of wine. Take advantage of this tour.

4. Included Excursions

A key difference between river cruising versus ocean cruising is that there are “included” excursions, meaning you don’t pay extra to do these things. Each day, Viking offers tours at each port of call.

Excursions may run 2–3 hours, or even longer, such as going to the beaches and cemetery in Normandy, which requires several hours each way on a bus. Buses are included when necessary because of distance or accessibility.

Viking Cruises does a stellar job of vetting its tour guides. Hence, they are easy to understand, are entertaining, and have control of their groups.

There are paid excursions available each day, something to consider depending on your interests.

Pro Tip: Viking uses the word “leisure” for walks or excursions that are slower-paced and easier for those with mobility issues, though they are open to anyone .

5. Views Of The Eiffel Tower At Night

Our cruise officially “embarked” at 3 p.m. but docked overnight so guests could explore Paris independently. I liked that. Many went off to see shows or have dinner at fancy Parisian restaurants; while others, myself included, hung out on the Viking Fjorgyn and got to know the people we would be spending the week with.

From the comfort of our stateroom veranda, the lounge, or the top observation deck, we could see the Eiffel Tower right down from where we were docked. From here, we could enjoy the evening twinkling light show with no stress of fighting the crowds, or even being dressed for that matter.

Our Viking Fjorgyn ship was docked in a thriving part of Paris where something was going on at all hours, though not loud and boisterous. It is a good location for sightseeing and souvenir shopping, but keep your belongings close to your body at all times.

6. Guided Normandy Experience

Normandy is 3 hours from Paris, or 90–120 minutes from Rouen, where we docked to see half of the Paris to Normandy itinerary stops. I was familiar with and loved the neighboring Brittany region of France.

Our day at the Normandy beaches involved a long bus ride, but it was worth it! First up was a stop at the Mémorial Caen Museum, which tells the story of World War II. It has a noteworthy gift shop as well. If you are looking for souvenirs, buy them here.

Included with our Viking River Cruise was lunch at the museum. Our group had a separate dining area with a tasty plated meal, wine, and dessert. I had seen the roped-off area during museum free time and commented on how fancy and nice it looked. Imagine my surprise when they corralled us into the space. I thought this was a very special touch to our long day.

Next, we headed to the Normandy American Cemetery for a somber presentation and dedication to the military on our sailing. It was a charming special touch when our tour guide arranged for a floral display to be placed at the base of the Spirit of American Youth Rising from the Waves bronze statue.

Lastly, we arrived at the Omaha Beach location, famed for D-Day arrivals and many casualties. There was time to walk around, take pictures and videos, pay tribute to our loved ones and fallen soldiers, and reflect on the importance of this location. 

Tissues are recommended.

Pro Tip: This is American property. Our guide encouraged us to take home souvenir sand if we wanted. Luckily, I brought an empty water bottle for this reason. You may want to, too.

7. French-Themed Dinner

Hold on to your hats for the French food extravaganza buffet night; it is sensational in every way. Have your cameras ready, because everything here is photo-worthy.

As the guests entered the dining room, you could hear the “oohs” and “aahs” escaping every mouth. Table after table was eloquently dressed and loaded with fancy plates and boards of food that were specific to the region. 

Besides the gourmet cheese boards, spread of salads, and charcuterie, there were also glasses of wine and champagne. The staff blended well with their striped shirts, berets, and stylish threads that were so chic and “gay Paris.” This is one lively event.

Even as a foodie, there were many things I was not familiar with on the buffet line and tables. This is your perfect opportunity to try it all; the food was well labeled and Viking is particular about food allergies. Don’t skip the duck pâte — it was some of the best I’ve ever had.

You’ll be dreaming of the delicious mini-desserts, as well. The French-themed buffet was my favorite dinner night on the ship.

For more on Viking Cruises, check out these articles:

• Viking Cruise Line Secrets No One Tells You
• 6 Fascinating Facts About Viking’s New Expedition Ship Octantis
• 6 Fabulous Shore Excursions On A Viking Rhine River Cruise

Melody and her daughter Taylor run both Wherever I May Roam and Travel The South travel blogs. She is a digital influencer, freelances for both print and online publications, and hosts an annual travel conference, Southern Travelers Explore. Melody has been traveling her entire adult life and has visited 49 states and 49 countries. She loves cruising, small towns, historical sights, and National Parks.

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Christmas Markets

Celebrate an Old World Christmas on one of Europe’s great rivers. Glittering cities across France, Germany, Austria and beyond light up with Christmas markets offering hand-carved toys and ornaments. While you shop, sample hot chocolate, spicy glühwein and aromatic gingerbread.

Christmas on the Seine

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Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle

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Danube Christmas Delights

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Highlights of christmas markets.

Enjoy visits to Europe’s delightful Christmas markets, onboard festivities and more—all designed to complement your itinerary’s regular highlights. Join us in exploring the lands where our most cherished holiday traditions began and treat yourself to a true European Christmas. Here is a preview of all you will enjoy during a Christmas Market cruise with Viking

• Exuberantly decorated Christmas markets nestled in charming cities
• Yuletide cookies, cakes and other freshly baked treats
• Cobblestone streets illuminated by holiday lights
• The angelic songs of strolling carolers
• Storybook villages and snow-capped castles on the riverside
• Hand-carved toys and ornaments from Christmases past
• Onboard music performances, tree trimming and cooking demonstrations
• Good tidings and cheer shared with rosy-cheeked market vendors

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Here's What it is REALLY Like Onboard Viking River Cruises

• Episode aired Apr 28, 2024

A review of a Viking river cruise on the Seine River in France were the ports of call are the destinations rather the ship itself as on ocean cruises. A review of a Viking river cruise on the Seine River in France were the ports of call are the destinations rather the ship itself as on ocean cruises. A review of a Viking river cruise on the Seine River in France were the ports of call are the destinations rather the ship itself as on ocean cruises.

• Heidi Bucolo
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User reviews

• April 28, 2024 (United States)
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• Runtime 22 minutes

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