Paris & Normandy on the Seine

DAYS 1-2: BIENVENUE A PARIS!

After an overnight flight to Paris, board the Amadeus Diamond, your stunning home for the next seven nights. Enjoy a special welcome cocktail and dinner on board before settling in for the exciting adventure ahead. Meals In Flight, L, D

DAY 3: CONFLANS, AUVERS-SUR-OISE

Just 30 minutes from the bustling City of Lights, the charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise sits between the Oise River and rugged cliffs. Once home to painters like Cézanne, Daubigny, and Pissarro, it is best known today as the final resting place of Vincent van Gogh and his brother Theo. Visit Van Gogh's grave at the hilltop cemetery and explore the Château d'Auvers, a 17th-century estate immortalized in his paintings. Experience an immersive multimedia exhibit that brings Impressionism to life, transporting you to the era of these legendary artists. B, L, D

DAY 4: ROUEN

Explore Rouen’s medieval charm, from Gothic churches and half-timbered houses to Monet’s cathedral and the iconic “Gros Horloge” clock. Visit the site where Joan of Arc was burned and admire the striking Saint-Maclou Church. In the afternoon, tour Le Pressoir d’Or cider house in Vexin Normand, exploring its orchard, cellar, and cider-making museum before a tasting. End the day with free time in Lyons-la-Forêt, one of France’s most beautiful villages, known for its historic charm, antique shops, and cozy tearooms. B, L, D

DAY 5: HONFLEUR, ÉTRETAT

Wake up in Le Havre, a major port city in Normandy known for its unique post-World War II reconstruction and architecture. Enjoy the morning at leisure or take the optional excursion to Honfleur. In the afternoon, head to Étretat, famed for its dramatic white cliffs and stunning coastal views. Walk the clifftop path, explore the historic village, and see why artists like Monet and writers such as Maupassant found inspiration here. Enjoy free time soaking in the scenery from the pebble beach and promenade. B, L, D

Option—Honfleur Stroll through this charming port city, a haven for Impressionist painters like Monet and Courbet. Wander its narrow, historic streets, visit the iconic Vieux Bassin, the Lieutenancy, and St. Catherine’s Church, then browse local galleries and markets for cider, Calvados, and handmade crafts. $100 per person

DAY 6: BEACHES OF NORMANDY, OVERLORD MUSEUM

Explore the historic sites of Normandy, where pivotal moments of World War II come to life. Begin at Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled the dramatic cliffs on D-Day, followed by a solemn visit to the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking Omaha Beach. After a reflective stop at this hallowed ground, enjoy a leisurely lunch before delving deeper into history at the Overlord Museum, home to an extensive collection of wartime artifacts and vehicles. Conclude the journey with a scenic drive back to Caudebec, reflecting on the bravery and sacrifice that shaped history. B, L, D

DAY 7: LES ANDELYS, GIVERNY

This morning, take a short drive to Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s 12th-century fortress overlooking the Seine. Explore its ruins and hear tales of its history, including the imprisonment of two royal daughters-in-law. Continue to Giverny, where Monet found lifelong inspiration. Tour his vibrant home, hear stories of his artistic circle, and stroll through the gardens that shaped his masterpieces. This afternoon, enjoy free time on the ship, or partake in the optional excursion to visit Joséphine Bonaparte’s beloved estate. B, L, D

Option—JOSÉPHINE, NAPOLEON AND CHÂTEAU DE MALMAISON Once a run-down estate, Joséphine de Beauharnais transformed her mansion west of Paris into a gem of the First Empire period, where Napoleon made key decisions for France from 1800 to 1802. Explore their daily life, including the music room, council room, and Joséphine’s bedroom, and enjoy free time in her cherished gardens. $125 per person

DAY 8: PARIS

It is once more “bonjour” to the French capital. Stunning sights include the incomparable Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides—famous as the burial place of Emperor Napoleon I—the fabulous Louvre Museum, the famed and elegant Champs-Elysées, the Jardin des Tuileries, and much more. Later, enjoy free time to explore the “City of Love” on your own, or visit Montmartre on the optional excursion. B, L, D

Option—MONTMARTRE With its narrow, winding streets and charming squares filled with artists and history, Montmartre offers panoramic views of Paris. Explore its hillside vineyard, Moulin de la Galette, and the Bateau Lavoir studio where artists like Picasso and Renoir once worked. Walk the same cobbled paths that inspired generations of creators, soaking in the area's romantic and bohemian spirit. $100 per person

DAY 9: LOIRE VALLEY

Today, say “au revoir” to the Amadeus Diamond. Disembark the ship and board the motorcoach as you head towards the Loire Valley. Along the way, discover the Château de Chambord, a French Renaissance masterpiece, with an interactive tour. Explore its iconic double helix staircase, vast landscapes, and an immersive equestrian and falconry show that brings François I's court to life. This evening, settle into your hotel in Blois, a charming hillside city along the Loire River. B, L, D

DAY 10: VINEYARDS AND CASTLES

Today, impressive castles and fine wines await. Begin with a tour of Château de Chenonceau, one of the most breathtaking castles in France. Delve into the castle’s rich history, including its connections to Catherine de’ Medici and Diane de Poitiers. At the winery, meet a passionate winemaker, learn about the region’s winemaking traditions, and savor a sampling of the Loire Valley’s renowned wines. This evening, enjoy dinner on your own and time to explore Blois at your leisure. B, L

DAY 11: RENNES

This morning, depart Blois and head north. This journey brings a visit to Rennes, Brittany’s vibrant capital city. Enjoy a guided tour of its elaborate city center, immense cathedral, half-timbered houses, and medieval quarter. Lunch awaits at a local favorite before boarding the motorcoach and heading north toward Mont Saint-Michel. B, L, D

DAY 12: CANCALE, SAINT-MALO

Today, live like the people of Brittany. Visit the historic coastal city of Saint-Malo, where the past meets the present. Enjoy a guided tour of the charming “Intra-Muros” (walled city), recounting tales of explorers like Jacques Cartier and the city’s resilience during World War II. Admire the breathtaking panoramic views of the sea and neighboring islands. In stunning Cancale, the Parcs Saint-Kerber Oyster Farm opens it doors to show how the “Gardeners of the Sea” go about their days. Learn the trades secrets of oyster farming before a special tasting of their fresh “Perles Cancalaises.” Whether you’re an oyster lover or new to the experience, there is a tasting option for you! B, L, D

DAY 13: MONT SAINT-MICHEL

Spend time today visiting Mont Saint-Michel, the second most visited site in France. Take a guided tour of the mountaintop abbey and learn all about its thousand-year history. Admire its spectacular architecture, straight from the Middle Ages, and hear about how this abbey became one of the most important places of pilgrimage in the Western Christian world. After touring and exploring “le mont,” enjoy lunch before departing Mont Saint-Michel for Paris. Note: A special D-Day commemoration, if possible, will be determined closer to departure. B, L, D

DAY 14: RETURN HOME

It’s time to bid “adieu” to France as you begin your journey home, filled with memories. B

ACCOMMODATIONS:

Nights 2-8: MS Amadeus Diamond
Nights 9-10: Hotel Mercure Blois OR Novotel Blois Centre Val De Loire
Nights 11-12: Mercure Mont Saint-Michel
Night 13: CDG Paris Airport Hotel

Departure Cities:

• St. Louis
• Kansas City
• Springfield

Depart: May 26, 2026

Return: June 8, 2026

Price Per Person: See Pricing Chart Below

Identification
Valid passport required to travel.

Walking Distance
Like most European River Cruises, this tour includes walking tours in historical cities that are not handicap accessible. Above average mobility is required compared to most domestic tours.

To fully enjoy your your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace for a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate.

We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways).

Optional Excursions
Optional tours are listed in the itinerary, we encourage you to book them as soon as possible.

Currency
Euro

Time Zone
GMT+1 (5 hours ahead of New York)

Travel with CTD Friends
This tour will include travelers and staff from our sister company, Country Travel Discoveries.

Hotel Amenities
Each cabin on board the Amadeus Diamond features a window. There is an elevator that operates between decks. The sun deck is not accessible by elevator. The sun deck features a putting green, shuffleboard, large chess board, and lounge chairs. In addition, a fitness area and hairdresser are available on board (additional cost). Wi-Fi is included in your package onboard the ship. We will travel in rural river landscapes, meaning the Wi-Fi connection at times can be limited.

Other General Information
We will send 3 key communications for your tour; “Get Ready” is your email confirmation and initial tour information sent upon registration, “Get Set” email will be sent about two months before departure, “Go” trip documentation mailing is sent via USPS 3-4 weeks before departure and will include your daily itinerary, luggage tags and final departure information.

Travel Protection is optional and highly recommended and can be purchased until the day before departure. We offer Travel Guard from AIG, which costs 8.5% of your tour, information about which will be sent with your Get Ready email.

Unless otherwise noted, your Sunrise Tour includes: Professional Sunrise Tour Director, meals as indicated, local step on guides including gratuity (international tour guide gratuity inclusion vary by tour), deluxe motorcoach transportation w/rest room, admission to activities and events as indicated, airfare from designated airports, transportation to/from designated airports from our convenient local pickup points*, luggage handling at hotels when available

We believe tipping is a personal and discretionary interaction between our guests and our staff. A typical gratuity for your Sunrise Tour Director and motorcoach driver may be $5-$7per person, per day on tour. Sunrise Shuttle drivers appreciate gratuities (suggest $5 per person) for excellent service as well. Our staff will not solicit gratuities or pass out envelopes.

We are happy to offer refreshments on most motorcoach travel days on tour. We recommend you bring a refillable water bottle to maintain healthy hydration.

If less than 4 people request a pickup point, we may ask that you choose another pickup point from which to join your Sunrise Tour.

If you would like to join a tour from a city not listed as a departure point, we would love to have you along! Please discuss arrangements with our friendly reservation team. From a departure city not listed, typical airfare will be +$100 higher than our published fare for domestic tours, and +$200 for international tours.

If you have a TSA precheck or Airline Rewards numbers, you MUST give those numbers to our reservations team at least 60 days before departure, otherwise they may not be applied.

Preferred seating may not be available on group air. In some cases, seats are not assigned until the airport. Your tour fare includes an economy seat on the flight; it does not include seat selection. Seat upgrades may be available at an additional cost.

To help make our tours the most comfortable in the business, we limit Sunrise Tours motorcoaches to 80% capacity, or 44 passengers on a coach built for 55. We reserve the right to amend this practice.

Your Tour Director will rotate seats on the motorcoach each day of your tour. A single fare does not guarantee two seats on the coach; you may be seated next to another friendly Sunrise Tours guest.

Terms and Conditions
Please refer to our policies HERE for more information on our terms and conditions.