Holiday Magic: Seine Family River Cruise

Tour begins: 4:00 PM, Paris. A transfer is included from Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Gare de Lyon Station, Charles de Gaulle Station or Gare du Nord Station to your riverboat, docked in the heart of the city on the River Seine, where festive decorations and twinkling lights make the season especially magical. Embark your riverboat at 4 PM, settle in and attend the safety briefing onboard. Meet your fellow family travelers at a welcome reception and dinner tonight.

Discover Paris dressed in its holiday best, beginning with a guided visit to the intimate Sainte-Chapelle, a breathtaking 11th-century church, renowned for its towering stained glass windows, located within the medieval Palais de la Cité, the residence of the Kings of France until the 14th century.Then lace up your skates for a spin on the ice beneath the soaring glass roof of the Grand Palais, or enjoy the festive atmosphere from the sidelines. Later, explore the Christmas market in the Tuileries Garden, one of the most popular Christmas markets in Paris, where holiday treats, seasonal decorations and cheerful market stalls bring the spirit of the season to life.

Experience another side of Paris on a locally guided walk that includes a visit inside the magnificent Palais Garnier, the city's celebrated opera house. Admire its lavish interiors and discover the stories behind this architectural treasure. Outside, elegant storefronts and holiday decorations add sparkle to the streets. Continue your holiday discoveries at a Paris Christmas market, with time to browse for gifts, sample local specialties and enjoy the cheerful atmosphere.

Enjoy a leisurely morning before setting off for Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, a magnificent 17th-century French château transformed for the season. Enjoy high tea in a private setting, then explore the château's grand rooms and seasonal decorations at your own pace. As daylight fades, watch the château and its grounds come alive with a dazzling light show. Return to your riverboat for holiday refreshments and dinner.

Watch the winter countryside unfold along the Seine as your riverboat sails toward Normandy. Enjoy a leisurely brunch and festive activities onboard, with plenty of time to relax and share the joys of the season together. Arrive in Rouen, a historic city of medieval streets, half-timbered houses and soaring Gothic architecture. Discover its centuries-old character on a guided walk, then return to your riverboat for a special Chef's Signature Dinner.

Discover the irresistible charm of Honfleur, where colorful buildings and narrow cobblestone streets surround a picturesque old harbor. Explore this delightful Normandy town on a guided walk, soaking up its maritime character and festive atmosphere. Browse the Christmas market and sample a taste of the town as you wish. Return to your riverboat dinner as your journey continues along the Seine.

Enjoy a relaxed morning onboard, with onboard holiday fun that may include decorating gingerbread houses or discovering how a traditional French bûche de Noël is made. This afternoon drive to Château de Bizy near Vernon for a special holiday reception, complete with hot chocolate and pastries in an elegant château setting. This 18th-century neo-classical château was inspired by the opulent Palace of Versailles and is a delight to explore with a local guide. Return to your riverboat for a farewell reception and dinner as your riverboat charts a course back to Paris.

Tour ends: Paris. Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before disembarking your riverboat at 9:00 AM. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from the riverboat to Paris airports or train station. Please book flights after 11:00 AM and allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in.