Enjoy the scenic trip through the rolling French countryside to Paris and spend the day savoring it's gardens, museums and historic sites. Visit the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Take a boat ride along the Seine and a stroll along the Champs Elysee. Or visit historic Rouen or the battlefields of Normandy.
Thoroughly explore two of the most iconic attractions in Paris – the impossibly lavish Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum – and come away with a deeper appreciation for art, architecture and French culture.
Special Note:
•If you have any food intolerances or special dietary needs, please contact the Regent Reservations Team at least 95 days prior to your departure. It is important that your land program extension reflects these details so our local vendors can ensure smooth and enjoyable dining experiences.
DAY 1
Disembark the ship in Le Havre, meet your guide and transfer to the Paris city center and your hotel for the next three nights. Drive time is approximately three hours.
Check-in at the hotel is from 4:00pm. Should you arrive earlier you may store luggage at Reception until your room is available.
All meals are on own today.
DAY 2
Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide. Today will be devoted to discovering the wonders of the Palace of Versailles, the primary residence of the French kings from the time of Louis XIV to Louis XVI. UNESCO deemed the palace worthy of a World Heritage site designation as Versailles was considered the ideal royal residence for more than a century and influenced the construction of many other palaces throughout Europe.
As you follow the guide through Versailles (headsets to be provided), you will gain an understanding of how several generations of architects and craftsmen embellished the palace – which was originally a hunting lodge – until the French Revolution forever altered the palace’s function.
Among the highlights is the king’s state apartment, a series of seven rooms lavishly decorated with marble paneling, painted ceilings and other ornamentations. The apartment was used for evening gatherings and court entertainment several times a week during the reign of Louis XIV.
Then, there is the Queen’s Apartment, whose layout is identical to the king’s state apartment, although several queens, including Marie-Antoinette, modified it.
You will also behold the Hercules Room – which features a masterpiece ceiling painting depicting the Apotheosis of Hercules – and the Hall of Mirrors, perhaps the most famous room in the palace. More than 350 mirrors bedeck the arches, a demonstration that the French could manufacture mirrors as well as the Venetians, who had a monopoly on the craft.
Following a delightful three-course lunch at a nearby restaurant, you will enjoy an enlightening tour of the king’s vegetable garden, which took five years to complete in the late 17th century and remains nearly unaltered today.
After returning to the hotel, the rest of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Important Note: The Palace of Versailles is closed on Mondays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
DAY 3
Meet your guide after a buffet breakfast at your hotel. The focus of today will be the Louvre, a former palace that is perhaps the greatest repository of art in the world. It is also the world’s most visited art museum with a collection that spans works from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century.
As you meander independently about the galleries, you can expect to see da Vinci’s enigmatic Mona Lisa, the famed statue of Aphrodite – better known as Venus de Milo – and the Winged Victory statue that was found in a sanctuary where people prayed for protection from the dangers of the sea.
The collection is so all-encompassing that no matter what your artistic interests, you can find works that beautifully represent it. Pieces from the Italian Renaissance, by Dutch and Flemish masters and even Mesopotamian art are all on display, as well as Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities.
After having free time to browse in the museum shop, you will depart for the hotel. Along the way, you will pause for photos of the Eiffel Tower, the most iconic landmark in Paris.
Return to your hotel where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure with lunch and dinner on your own.
Important Notes:
•The visit inside the Louvre is self-guided. Someone will be available on site to assist and orient you accordingly and additionally, a mobile application is available at no extra cost for guests wishing to access commentary on some of the artworks inside the museum.
•The Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
DAY 4
Should flight time allow, enjoy one last buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out at the hotel is at 12:00pm. Please do not forget to settle any incidentals before departure. Local city taxes will be added to each guest folio to be paid locally.
At the designated time and based on flight details provided, (check your Welcome Letter upon arrival), you will be transferred to the Charles De Gaulle airport. Should you have a late flight, luggage storage will be available at the hotel until your transfer time. Transfer time is approximately one hour to the airport depending in traffic.
Note: A private van will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
Land Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.
DAY 1
TBA Disembark the ship in Le Havre, meet your guide and transfer to the Paris city center
Drive time approximately three hours depending on traffic
4:00pm Check in time at the hotel, luggage storage available if you arrive sooner
Meals on own today
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 2
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to Versailles Palace
10:00am Guided visit with headsets at Versailles Palace
12:00pm Walk to a restaurant for lunch
12:30pm Lunch at La Flottille or similar venue
2:00pm Orientation tour and free time in Versailles Gardens
3:30pm Return drive to your hotel
4:30pm Remainder of the day at your leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 3
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to the Louvre Museum
9:00am Guided visit of the Louvre and free time’
12:00pm Panoramic drive around Paris with a photo stop at the Eiffel Tower
1:30pm Arrive back at your hotel, remainder of the day at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 4
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel should flight time allow
12:00pm Check out time at the hotel
TBA Transfer to the Charles De Gaulle Airport based on flight details
Drive time is approximately 1 hour
Extra Nights:
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.
•When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.
Transfers:
•All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.
•Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.
•Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.
Expected Weather:
Average August high temperature: 79°F (26°C)
Average August low temperature: 58°F (14°C)
Average September high temperature: 71°F (22°C)
Average September low temperature: 52°F (11°C)
What to Bring:
Dress is generally casual, although when visiting churches your knees and shoulders must be covered. Bring good walking shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring clothing that can be layered depending on the temperature of the day.
Local Currency:
The Euro is the local currency, but U.S. dollars and traveler’s checks may also be accepted in some tourist spots.
Electricity
220 volts. We suggest bringing your own travel adaptor if you bring electric devices.
Hotel Address:
Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris
51-57 Rue de Courcelles, 75008 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 58 36 67 00
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•3 nights at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel, including buffet breakfasts, Prestige Room
•Touring and entrances as per above itinerary
•Self-guided tour once inside the Louvre
•Private airport transfer
•Three-course lunch on Day 2 including 1 cold drink + coffee
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Any meals or beverages not mentioned above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
•City taxes – to be paid by guests locally at the hotel before departure
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
Embark on a journey through France’s royal past and artistic soul. From the grandeur of the Loire Valley’s legendary châteaux to the enchanting gardens of Monet’s Giverny, this program is a celebration of beauty, culture, and refined living. Stroll through history-steeped palaces, savor exquisite French cuisine paired with fine wines, and immerse yourself in the timeless elegance and romance of France — a truly unforgettable escape for those who cherish art, heritage, and the art of living well.
Special Notes:
•This program involves walking distances at times over uneven ground. It is not recommended for guests who require use of wheelchair, walker or cane
•Please advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be sent to our local ground operators for review.
DAY 1
Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG), you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in.
Located in the 9th arrondissement, your hotel places you within walking distance of several major Paris landmarks including the iconic Opéra Garnier, the historic covered passages, and a variety of cafés, boutiques, and cultural attractions.
Check in time is at 3:00pm. Should you be arriving sooner you may wish to book an extra night so that your room is available upon arrival.
Settle in and take some time to relax after your journey, the day and evening are at your leisure and meals are on your own today.
Note: A private van or SUV will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
DAY 2
After an early breakfast at your hotel, check out and meet your guide in the lobby before driving to the magnificent Château de Chambord, the biggest château in the Loire Valley. Begin your visit with a self-guided tour of the gardens and have the opportunity to capture the beauty of this iconic Renaissance castle in photos. Here you will find many beautiful and unique spots for capturing images, especially the famous double-spiral staircase, rooftop terraces, and the castle's exterior.
As the morning unfolds, immerse yourself in the captivating History on Horseback equestrian show, a vibrant performance that brings centuries of Chambord’s history and legends to life.
Following this inspiring introduction to the estate, step into a reimagined world of flavor at the Relais de Chambord Restaurant, where heritage blends beautifully with heartfelt cuisine. Enjoy a refined lunch in an atmosphere that harmonizes contemporary elegance with the spirit of the château.
Reenergized, continue your exploration with a guided tour of Chambord Castle, delving deeper into its grand halls, ingenious double-spiral staircases, and the architectural brilliance that has fascinated visitors for generations.
In the late afternoon, you will drive to Blois. Upon arrival, you will check into the elegant Hôtel Fleur de Loire, a beautifully restored 17th-century property set along the banks of the Loire River and just a short walk from the historic center. This Relais & Châteaux hotel offers a tranquil atmosphere with thoughtful luxury touches, including a Sisley spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness room, and beautifully designed guest rooms.
Take some time to unwind and enjoy the hotel’s facilities, perhaps a relaxing moment at the spa, a stroll through the landscaped gardens, or simply rest in your room before joining a guided evening tour of Blois, exploring its cobbled streets, Renaissance architecture, and riverside ambiance.
Dinner this evening is at Amour Blanc (or similar), the hotel’s contemporary restaurant featuring refined cuisine inspired by the region.
Optionally, you may wish to attend the Blois Castle Light Show later in the evening (cost not included). Each evening after dark, witness an extraordinary spectacle as vibrant video projections and immersive effects illuminate all four courtyard facades, transforming the castle and bringing its history to life. Experience dramatic moments and legendary figures in a captivating 360° show, complete with simultaneous translation in 10 languages.
The day concludes with an overnight stay in Blois, allowing you to rest and prepare for the adventures ahead.
DAY 3
After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide in the lobby and drive to Amboise to visit Castle Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence. Explore the château and its beautiful park, with some free time to browse the gift shop.
Next, take a short drive to the iconic Château de Chenonceau. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at L'Orangerie Restaurant or similar before a guided tour of the château, followed by free time to explore the gardens and gift shop at your own pace.
Afterwards, continue to Chisseaux-en-Touraine, just 2 km from Chenonceau, for a scenic boat sightseeing tour along the winding and romantic Cher River. Glide beneath the château’s graceful arches and take in hillsides draped in forests, experiencing a unique perspective of this magnificent Renaissance masterpiece—often called the “Ladies’ Castle”—with its exquisite architecture and stunning gardens.
The day concludes with a visit to Caves Ambacia, a troglodyte cellar, for a guided wine tasting and local delicacies before returning to Blois for an evening at leisure and dinner on your own.
For the evening, we recommend dining at Restaurant Christophe Hay — the best restaurant in the region, awarded two Michelin stars and a Green Star. Christophe Hay was named “Chef of the Year” 2021 by Gault & Millau. Advance reservations are essential.
DAY 4
After an early breakfast at your hotel, check out and meet your guide in the lobby before setting off for Le Havre, with a scenic stop in the charming village of Giverny.
Here, you will visit Claude Monet’s House, Gardens, and Museum, immersing yourself in the world of the legendary Impressionist and strolling through the artist’s beautifully landscaped gardens.
After your visit, enjoy a gourmet picnic as you continue your drive to Le Havre where you will embark the ship.
Land Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive one last final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review that Welcome Letter and your final itinerary carefully for any further amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•Guests who do not arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program without notice will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Extra Nights
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program
•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 3:00pm. Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.
•Guests with morning arrivals will be able to have breakfast at the hotel on their own with payment on spot and store their luggage at the hotel till check in time (subject to availability)
•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.
DAY 1
Arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG)
You are met at Arrivals Hall after customs, immigration, and luggage claim and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel where the afternoon and the evening at your leisure.
3:00pm Check in time at your hotel
Guests with morning arrivals will be able to have breakfast at the hotel (this is not included but charges will be added to your room incidental bill. Luggage can be stored until rooms are ready.
TBA RSSC Hospitality desk at hotel
Daytime at your leisure. Meals on your own
Overnight at NH Paris Opéra Faubourg or similar hotel
Meet and Greet and transfers
•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.
•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.
•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.
•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.
DAY 2 - Chambord - Blois
7:00am Check out and early breakfast
7:30am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby, drive to Chambord
11:00am Self-guided tour of the gardens and a photo-shopping session
11:30am Chambord, History on Horseback – Equestrian Show
12:30pm Lunch at the Relais de Chambord Restaurant or similar venue
2:00pm Chambord Castle guided visit
4:00pm Drive to Blois
4:30pm Hôtel Fleur de Loire check-in, free time
6:00pm Blois walking tour
7:30pm Dinner at Amour Blanc or similar
10:30pm Optional (not included) – Blois Castle Light Show
Note in September the show starts at 10pm
Overnight at the Hôtel Fleur de Loire or similar hotel
*The walking distance from the hotel to the Blois Castle is approximately 1000 meters, no transfer is provided Duration: 45 mins (ticket office opens 30 minutes before the start of the show). Access to the show is unlimited, and there is no need to book a date in advance. In case of bad weather, the show will not be canceled.
DAY 3
8:00am Breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby, drive to Amboise
10:00am Castle Clos Lucé and park visit, free time for the gift shop
12:30pm Short drive to Château de Chenonceau
12:45pm Lunch at L'Orangerie Restaurant or similar
2:15pm Guided visit of Château de Chenonceau, free time for the gift shop
3:45pm Short drive to the boat pier for a sightseeing cruise
3:55pm Sightseeing boat tour along the Cher River
4:55pm Drive to Caves Ambacia
5:15pm Guided tour and wine tasting with local products
6:45pm Drive back to Blois
7:25pm Evening at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hôtel Fleur de Loire or similar hotel
DAY 4
7:00am Early breakfast and check-out
7:45am Meet your guide and drive to Le Havre with a stop in Giverny
11:15am Visit Claude Monet’s House, Gardens, and Museum
1:15pm Enjoy a gourmet picnic as you continue your drive to Le Havre
3:00pm Arrival at the port
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes for castles, gardens, and cobblestones, layered, weather-appropriate clothing and a light jacket or raincoat, sun protection: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, personal essentials: medications, toiletries, travel documents, smart casual attire for dinners, reusable water bottle.
*Some hotels do not provide distilled water. While we can certainly request this for you, we cannot guarantee that it will be available. If received in a timely manner, at least 95 days before sailing, requests will be sent on the final manifest that our ground operators and hotels receive. We highly recommend packing your own supply, especially on programs that travel to more remote locations in order to avoid not having it. Please keep in mind the rule for liquids in carry-on bags. Many hotels will charge for distilled water. If there is a fee, this will be added to your hotel incidental account to be paid at check-out. Fees will vary from hotel to hotel.
Local Currency:
Euro (EUR)
USD are not accepted however major credit cards will be
Electricity
Voltage: 230 V, 50 Hz
Plug Type: Type C or Type E (two round pins)
Adapter Required: Guests from countries using different plugs (e.g., US, UK) will need a plug adapter
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A valid passport is required for all travelers. It must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. Citizens of many countries (including the US, Canada, Australia, UK, and most EU countries) do not require a visa for short stays in France (up to 90 days within 180 days). Travelers from other countries may require a Schengen visa. Guests should check with their local French consulate or embassy for specific requirements.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Accommodation:
NH Paris Opéra Faubourg
49-51?Rue?La?Fayette, 75009 Paris, France
Hôtel Fleur de Loire
26?Quai?Villebois-Mareuil, 41000?Blois, France
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•1 night at the NH Paris Opéra Faubourg – Junior Suite
•2 nights at the Hôtel Fleur de Loire or similar - Deluxe room (views of inner courtyard or city)
•Porterage services at the hotels at check-in and check-out
•Private airport transfer on day 1 (driver only)
•Modern coach transportation during tour days
•English-speaking tour guide with national license each day
•Entrances per the program itinerary
•3-course meals per the itinerary including beverages (water, 1 coffee/tea and 1 glass of wine/beer/soft drink) for included lunches and dinners
•3 breakfasts
•Lunch at the Relais de Chambord Restaurant or similar venue
•Wine tasting with local products at Caves Ambacia
•Gourmet picnic prepared by Fleur de Loire on last day
•Bottled water available
•Headsets (whispers) during tour days
•RSSC Hospitality Desk on Day 1
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Porterage services at the airports
•Visa to France
•Early check-in, late check-out.
•Hotel incidentals including minibar, laundry, room service
•Other not mentioned meals or refreshments, additional drinks
•Blois Castle Light Show
•Entrances (sightseeing) not mentioned in the itinerary
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Thoroughly explore two of the most iconic attractions in Paris – the impossibly lavish Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum – and come away with a deeper appreciation for art, architecture and French culture.
Special Note:
•If you have any food intolerances or special dietary needs, please contact the Regent Reservations Team at least 95 days prior to your departure. It is important that your land program extension reflects these details so our local vendors can ensure smooth and enjoyable dining experiences.
DAY 1
After flying into the Charles De Gaulle airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel in the Paris city center. You will find your meet and greet team once you have collected your luggage and gone through customs and immigration. Look for someone holding a sign with your name or Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the arrivals hall.
Check-in at the hotel is from 4:00pm. Should you arrive earlier you may store luggage at Reception until your room is available. To guarantee a room upon your early arrival you may wish to book an extra night.
All meals are on own today.
Note: A private van will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
DAY 2
Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide. Today will be devoted to discovering the wonders of the Palace of Versailles, the primary residence of the French kings from the time of Louis XIV to Louis XVI. UNESCO deemed the palace worthy of a World Heritage site designation as Versailles was considered the ideal royal residence for more than a century and influenced the construction of many other palaces throughout Europe.
As you follow the guide through Versailles (headsets to be provided), you will gain an understanding of how several generations of architects and craftsmen embellished the palace – which was originally a hunting lodge – until the French Revolution forever altered the palace’s function.
Among the highlights is the king’s state apartment, a series of seven rooms lavishly decorated with marble paneling, painted ceilings and other ornamentations. The apartment was used for evening gatherings and court entertainment several times a week during the reign of Louis XIV.
Then, there is the Queen’s Apartment, whose layout is identical to the king’s state apartment, although several queens, including Marie-Antoinette, modified it.
You will also behold the Hercules Room – which features a masterpiece ceiling painting depicting the Apotheosis of Hercules – and the Hall of Mirrors, perhaps the most famous room in the palace. More than 350 mirrors bedeck the arches, a demonstration that the French could manufacture mirrors as well as the Venetians, who had a monopoly on the craft.
Following a delightful three-course lunch at a nearby restaurant, you will enjoy an enlightening tour of the king’s vegetable garden, which took five years to complete in the late 17th century and remains nearly unaltered today.
After returning to the hotel, the rest of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Important Note: The Palace of Versailles is closed on Mondays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
DAY 3
Meet your guide after a buffet breakfast at your hotel. The focus of today will be the Louvre, a former palace that is perhaps the greatest repository of art in the world. It is also the world’s most visited art museum with a collection that spans works from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century.
As you meander independently about the galleries, you can expect to see da Vinci’s enigmatic Mona Lisa, the famed statue of Aphrodite – better known as Venus de Milo – and the Winged Victory statue that was found in a sanctuary where people prayed for protection from the dangers of the sea.
The collection is so all-encompassing that no matter what your artistic interests, you can find works that beautifully represent it. Pieces from the Italian Renaissance, by Dutch and Flemish masters and even Mesopotamian art are all on display, as well as Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities.
After having free time to browse in the museum shop, you will depart for the hotel. Along the way, you will pause for photos of the Eiffel Tower, the most iconic landmark in Paris.
Return to your hotel where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure with lunch and dinner on your own.
Important Notes:
•The visit inside the Louvre is self-guided. Someone will be available on site to assist and orient you accordingly and additionally, a mobile application is available at no extra cost for guests wishing to access commentary on some of the artworks inside the museum.
•The Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
DAY 4
Enjoy one last buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out at the hotel is at 11:00am. Please do not forget to settle any incidentals before departure. Local city taxes will be added to each guest folio to be paid locally.
At the designated time (check your Welcome Letter upon arrival), you will be transferred as a group to the ship in Le Havre for embarkation. Drive time is approximately three hours to Le Havre.
Land Program Details Step by Step
•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Extra Nights
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program
•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 4:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.
•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 4:00pm.
•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.
DAY 1
Arrive at the Charles De Gaulle International Airport
You are met in the Arrivals Hall and transferred to your hotel
4:00pm Check in time at the hotel, luggage storage available for early arrivals
Meals on own today
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
Meet and Greet and transfers
•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.
•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.
•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.
•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.
DAY 2
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to Versailles Palace
10:00am Guided visit with headsets at Versailles Palace
12:00pm Walk to a restaurant for lunch
12:30pm Lunch at La Flottille or similar venue
2:00pm Orientation tour and free time in Versailles Gardens
3:30pm Return drive to your hotel
4:30pm Remainder of the day at your leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 3
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to the Louvre Museum
9:00am Self-guided visit of the Louvre and free time
12:00pm Panoramic drive around Paris with a photo stop at the Eiffel Tower
1:30pm Arrive back at your hotel, remainder of the day at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 4
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
12:00pm Check out time at the hotel
TBA Transfer to Le Havre for embarkation
Drive time is approximately 3 hours
Expected Weather:
Average August high temperature: 79°F (26°C)
Average August low temperature: 58°F (14°C)
Average September high temperature: 71°F (22°C)
Average September low temperature: 52°F (11°C)
What to Bring:
Dress is generally casual, although when visiting churches your knees and shoulders must be covered. Bring good walking shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring clothing that can be layered depending on the temperature of the day.
Local Currency:
The Euro is the local currency, but U.S. dollars and traveler’s checks may also accepted in some tourist spots.
Electricity
220 volts. We suggest bringing your own travel adaptor if you bring electric devices.
Hotel Address:
Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris
51-57 Rue de Courcelles, 75008 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 58 36 67 00
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•3 nights at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel, including buffet breakfasts, Prestige Room
•Touring and entrances as per above itinerary
•Self-guided visit once inside the Louvre
•Private airport transfer
•Three-course lunch on Day 2 including 1 cold drink + coffee
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Any meals or beverages not mentioned above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
•City taxes – to be paid by guests locally at the hotel before departure
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Discover the unforgettable allure of Paris by exploring two legendary landmarks: marvel at the opulent Palace of Versailles, then immerse yourself in world-class masterpieces at the Louvre Museum. Elevate your experience with a delicious lunch at Madame Brasserie, perched on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor—where you’ll enjoy gourmet cuisine paired with breathtaking views of the shimmering Seine below. Let art, architecture, and French culture sweep you off your feet!
Special Note:
•If you have any food intolerances or special dietary needs, please contact the Regent Reservations Team at least 95 days prior to your departure. It is important that your land program extension reflects these details so our local vendors can ensure smooth and enjoyable dining experiences.
DAY 1
After flying into Charles De Gaulle Airport, you will be met and transferred by private vehicle to your hotel in the Paris city center. You will find your meet and greet team once you have collected your luggage and gone through customs and immigration. Look for someone holding a sign with your name or Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the Arrivals Hall.
Check-in at the hotel is from 4:00pm. Should you arrive earlier you may store luggage at Reception until your room is available. To guarantee a room upon your early arrival you may wish to book an extra night.
All meals are on own today.
Hospitality desk time TBA- 4pm?
Note: A private van will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
DAY 2
Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide. Today will be devoted to discovering the wonders of the Palace of Versailles, the primary residence of the French kings from the time of Louis XIV to Louis XVI. UNESCO deemed the palace worthy of a World Heritage site designation as Versailles was considered the ideal royal residence for more than a century and influenced the construction of many other palaces throughout Europe.
As you follow the guide through Versailles (headsets to be provided), you will gain an understanding of how several generations of architects and craftsmen embellished the palace – which was originally a hunting lodge – until the French Revolution forever altered the palace’s function.
Among the highlights is the king’s state apartment, a series of seven rooms lavishly decorated with marble paneling, painted ceilings and other ornamentations. The apartment was used for evening gatherings and court entertainment several times a week during the reign of Louis XIV.
Then, there is the Queen’s Apartment, whose layout is identical to the king’s state apartment, although several queens, including Marie-Antoinette, modified it.
You will also behold the Hercules Room – which features a masterpiece ceiling painting depicting the Apotheosis of Hercules – and the Hall of Mirrors, perhaps the most famous room in the palace. More than 350 mirrors bedeck the arches, a demonstration that the French could manufacture mirrors as well as the Venetians, who had a monopoly on the craft.
Following a delightful three-course lunch at a nearby restaurant, you will enjoy an enlightening tour of the king’s vegetable garden, which took five years to complete in the late 17th century and remains nearly unaltered today.
After returning to the hotel, the rest of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Important Note: The Palace of Versailles is closed on Mondays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
DAY 3
Meet your guide after a buffet breakfast at your hotel. The focus of today will be the Louvre, a former palace that is perhaps the greatest repository of art in the world. It is also the world’s most visited art museum with a collection that spans works from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century.
As you meander independently about the galleries, you can expect to see da Vinci’s enigmatic Mona Lisa, the famed statue of Aphrodite – better known as Venus de Milo – and the Winged Victory statue that was found in a sanctuary where people prayed for protection from the dangers of the sea.
The collection is so all-encompassing that no matter what your artistic interests, you can find works that beautifully represent it. Pieces from the Italian Renaissance, by Dutch and Flemish masters and even Mesopotamian art are all on display, as well as Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities.
After having free time to browse in the museum shop, you will depart for the Eiffel Tower, the most iconic landmark in Paris.
Experience the elegance of dining on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Take the lift to the renowned Madame Brasserie restaurant, where you will enjoy a refined three-course lunch while overlooking the Seine and taking in views from the Trocadéro to the La Défense Business District.
Following your meal, board your coach for a panoramic drive through Paris, observing the city's notable landmarks before returning to your hotel where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Important Notes:
•The visit inside the Louvre is self-guided. Someone will be available on site to assist and orient you accordingly and additionally, a mobile application is available at no extra cost for guests wishing to access commentary on some of the artworks inside the museum.
•The Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
•Lunch at Madame Brasserie includes an access ticket to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Access to the upper levels is not included. Should you wish to remain in the area, you are free to make your own way back to the hotel.
DAY 4
Enjoy one last buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out at the hotel is at 12:00pm. Please do not forget to settle any incidentals before departure. Local city taxes will be added to each guest folio to be paid locally.
At the designated time (check your Welcome Letter upon arrival), you will be transferred as a group to the ship in Le Havre for embarkation. Drive time is approximately three hours to Le Havre.
Hospitality desk time TBA
Land Program Details Step by Step
•The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. You will then receive a final itinerary from our ground operator with a Welcome Letter upon arrival or at your hotel. Please review the letter and your final itinerary carefully for further amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Extra Nights
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the hotel that is used on the FIRST NIGHT of your land program
•If you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be met as per the flight details provided and transferred to your hotel. Check-in is 4:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast, as well as activities, are on your own until day 2 of the program.
•If you have an early-arriving flight, you may wish to book an extra night as your room will not be ready for occupation until approximately 4:00pm.
•If you book extra nights on your own, transfers are not included.
DAY 1
Arrive at Charles De Gaulle International Airport
You are met in the Arrivals Hall and transferred to your hotel
4:00pm Check in time at the hotel, luggage storage available for early arrivals
Meals on own today
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
Meet and Greet and transfers
•Final cruise documents will be emailed 21 days prior to sailing. The local ground agent’s telephone number will be on page 1, if you can’t locate the meet-and-greet representative upon arrival. Be aware that the representative may be assisting others and may not be in sight when you first exit Customs and the luggage claim area.
•Look for someone holding a sign with the cruise line logo and possibly your name. If in doubt, ask the airport staff to direct you to the meeting area for transfers or to page our representative.
•Meet and Greet and transfers are arranged for guests arriving on Day 1 of a land program or for extra nights booked through the cruise line and are arranged based on the flight details received by guests at least 14 days before sailing. Guests arriving independently before the program start date will not have a transfer included.
•If we have not received your flight details or your flights have changed, and the Destination Services Land Team has not been notified, then a transfer cannot be provided, and guests will be responsible for getting to the land program hotel at their own expense. Please immediately contact our Reservations Department for any flight changes before departure.
DAY 2
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to Versailles Palace
10:00am Guided visit with headsets at Versailles Palace
12:00pm Walk to a restaurant for lunch
12:30pm Lunch at La Flottille or similar venue
2:00pm Orientation tour and free time in Versailles Gardens
3:30pm Return drive to your hotel
4:30pm Remainder of the day at your leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 3 – times may vary depending on the confirmed ticketed entrance time for the Museum visit
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to the Louvre Museum
9:00am Self-guided visit of the Louvre and free time
12:00pm Drive to the Eiffel Tower
1:00pm Access to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower
1:30pm Lunch at Madame Brasserie restaurant, on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower
3:30pm Panoramic drive through Paris
4:30pm Arrive back at your hotel, remainder of the day at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 4
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
12:00pm Check out time at the hotel
TBA Transfer to Le Havre for embarkation
Drive time is approximately 3 hours
Expected Weather:
Average May high temperature: 71°F (22°C)
Average May low temperature: 52°F (11°C)
Average August high temperature: 79°F (26°C)
Average August low temperature: 58°F (14°C)
Average September high temperature: 71°F (22°C)
Average September low temperature: 52°F (11°C)
What to Bring:
Dress is generally casual, although when visiting churches your knees and shoulders must be covered. Bring good walking shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring clothing that can be layered depending on the temperature of the day.
Local Currency:
The Euro is the local currency, but U.S. dollars and traveler’s checks may also be accepted in some tourist spots.
Electricity
220 volts. We suggest bringing your own travel adapter if you bring electric devices.
Accommodation:
Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris
51-57 Rue de Courcelles, 75008 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 58 36 67 00
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•3 nights at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel, including buffet breakfasts, Prestige Room
•Touring and entrances as per above itinerary
•Transfers
•Self-guided tour at the Louvre
•Three-course lunch on Day 2 including 1 cold drink + coffee
•Three-course lunch on Day 3 including 1 glass of champagne, superior wine, filtered water and coffee
•City taxes
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Any meals or beverages not mentioned above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program. Guests failing to arrive on Day 1 of a scheduled land program will be considered a no-show and their hotel space released.
Embark on a journey through France’s royal past and artistic soul. From the grandeur of the Loire Valley’s legendary châteaux to the enchanting gardens of Monet’s Giverny, this program is a celebration of beauty, culture, and refined living. Stroll through history-steeped palaces, savor exquisite French cuisine paired with fine wines, and immerse yourself in the timeless elegance and romance of France — a truly unforgettable escape for those who cherish art, heritage, and the art of living well.
Special Notes:
•This program involves walking distances at times over uneven ground. It is not recommended for guests who require use of wheelchair, walker or cane
•Please advise the RSSC Reservations team when you book this program should you have any special dietary restrictions or requirements. Requests will be sent to our local ground operators for review.
DAY 1
Disembark the ship in Le Havre and meet your guide. Your journey begins with a picturesque drive to Giverny.
Here, you will visit Claude Monet’s House, Gardens, and Museum, immersing yourself in the world of the legendary Impressionist and strolling through the artist’s beautifully landscaped gardens.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at La Parenthèse (or similar venue) before continuing through the picturesque Loire Valley to the charming town of Blois.
Upon arrival, you will check into the elegant Hôtel Fleur de Loire, a beautifully restored 17th-century property set along the banks of the Loire River and just a short walk from the historic center. This Relais & Châteaux hotel offers a tranquil atmosphere with thoughtful luxury touches, including a Sisley spa, indoor and outdoor pools, a fitness room, and beautifully designed guest rooms.
Take some time to unwind and enjoy the hotel’s facilities, perhaps a relaxing moment at the spa, a stroll through the landscaped gardens, or simply rest in your room before joining a guided evening tour of Blois, exploring its cobbled streets, Renaissance architecture, and riverside ambiance.
Dinner this evening is at Amour Blanc (or similar), the hotel’s contemporary restaurant featuring refined cuisine inspired by the region.
Optionally, you may wish to attend the Blois Castle Light Show later in the evening (cost not included). Each evening after dark, witness an extraordinary spectacle as vibrant video projections and immersive effects illuminate all four courtyard facades, transforming the castle and bringing its history to life. Experience dramatic moments and legendary figures in a captivating 360° show, complete with simultaneous translation in 10 languages.
DAY 2
After breakfast at your hotel, meet your guide in the lobby and drive to Amboise to visit Castle Clos Lucé, Leonardo da Vinci’s final residence. Explore the château and its beautiful park, with some free time to browse the gift shop.
Next, take a short drive to the iconic Château de Chenonceau. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at L'Orangerie Restaurant or similar before a guided tour of the château, followed by free time to explore the gardens and gift shop at your own pace.
Afterwards, continue to Chisseaux-en-Touraine, just 2 km from Chenonceau, for a scenic boat sightseeing tour along the winding and romantic Cher River. Glide beneath the château’s graceful arches and take in hillsides draped in forests, experiencing a unique perspective of this magnificent Renaissance masterpiece—often called the “Ladies’ Castle”—with its exquisite architecture and stunning gardens.
The day concludes with a visit to Caves Ambacia, a troglodyte cellar, for a guided wine tasting and local delicacies before returning to Blois for an evening at leisure and dinner on your own.
For the evening, we recommend dining at Restaurant Christophe Hay — the best restaurant in the region, awarded two Michelin stars and a Green Star. Christophe Hay was named “Chef of the Year” 2021 by Gault & Millau. Advance reservations are essential.
DAY 3
After breakfast at your hotel and check-out, transfer to the magnificent Château de Chambord, the biggest château in the Loire Valley. Begin your visit with a self-guided tour of the gardens and have the opportunity to capture the beauty of this iconic Renaissance castle in photos. Here you will find many beautiful and unique spots for capturing images, especially the famous double-spiral staircase, rooftop terraces, and the castle's exterior.
As the morning unfolds, immerse yourself in the captivating History on Horseback equestrian show, a vibrant performance that brings centuries of Chambord’s history and legends to life.
Following this inspiring introduction to the estate, step into a reimagined world of flavor at the Relais de Chambord Restaurant, where heritage blends seamlessly with heartfelt cuisine. Enjoy a refined lunch in an atmosphere that harmonizes contemporary elegance with the spirit of the château.
After lunch, depart for Paris, enjoying a scenic photo stop at the Eiffel Tower along the way. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day and evening is at your leisure and dinner is on your own.
Your hotel is located in the 9th arrondissement, and places you within walking distance of several major Paris landmarks including the iconic Opéra Garnier, the historic covered passages, and a variety of cafés, boutiques, and cultural attractions.
DAY 4
After breakfast, check out and settle any incidentals prior to departing.
You will be met and transferred by private vehicle to Charles de Gaulle Airport in accordance with your flight details. The official check out time at the hotel is 12:00pm. Should you have a late flight, you are welcome to use the luggage storage facility until your transfer time.
Note: A private van or SUV will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
Land Program Details Step by Step:
?Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program details including timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
?Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing.
?Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
?The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
?A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.
DAY 1
8:45am Disembark the ship in Le Havre, meet your guide
9:00am Transfer to Giverny
11:00am Visit Claude Monet House, Garden and Museum
1:00pm Lunch at La Parenthèse Restaurant or similar venue
2:30pm Drive to Blois
6:00pm Check-in at your hotel, free time
7:00pm Blois guided tour
8:00pm Dinner at Amour Blanc (or similar venue)
10:30pm Optional Blois Castle Light Show – at own cost
Overnight at Hôtel Fleur de Loire or similar hotel
*The walking distance from the hotel to the Blois Castle is approximately 1000 meters, no transfer is provided Duration: 45 mins (ticket office opens 30 minutes before the start of the show). Access to the show is unlimited, and there is no need to book a date in advance. In case of bad weather, the show will not be canceled.
DAY 2
8:00am Breakfast at the hotel
9:00am Meet your guide in the hotel lobby, drive to Amboise
10:00am Castle Clos Lucé and park visit, free time for the gift shop
12:30pm Short drive to Château de Chenonceau
12:45pm Lunch at L'Orangerie Restaurant or similar venue
2:15pm Guided visit of Château de Chenonceau, free time for the gift shop
3:45pm Short drive to the boat pier for a sightseeing cruise
3:55pm Sightseeing boat tour along the Cher River
4:55pm Drive to Caves Ambacia
5:15pm Guided tour and wine tasting with local products
6:45pm Drive back to Blois
7:25pm Evening at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at Hôtel Fleur de Loire or similar hotel
DAY 3
8:00am Breakfast at the hotel, check out, settle any incidentals before departing
9:00am Transfer to Chambord
9:30am Chambord Castle and garden guided tour
11:30am Chambord, History on Horseback – Equestrian show
12:30pm Lunch at the Relais de Chambord Restaurant or similar venue
2:00pm Transfer to Paris with photo stop at the Eiffel Tower
5:30pm Check-in at your hotel, evening at leisure, dinner on own
TBA RSSC Hospitality Desk at the hotel
Overnight at Hotel NH Paris Opéra Faubourg or similar hotel
DAY 4
From 7:00am Breakfast at the hotel included
For guests with early flights, breakfast boxes will be provided
12:00pm Check-out time at the hotel, pay hotel incidentals if any, leave the room keys at reception desk.
For guests with late flights, luggage storage is available at reception until your transfer time.
TBA Meet your driver in the hotel lobby at least 10 min before your scheduled departure time
Private transfer to the Charles de Gaulle Airport in accordance with your flight details
Luggage storage is available at the hotel for guests with late flights
Extra Nights:
?All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.
?When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm
?Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.
Transfers:
?All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.
?Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.
?Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.
What to bring:
Comfortable walking shoes for castles, gardens, and cobblestones, layered, weather-appropriate clothing and a light jacket or raincoat, sun protection: sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, camera, personal essentials: medications, toiletries, travel documents, smart casual attire for dinners, reusable water bottle.
*Some hotels do not provide distilled water. While we can certainly request this for you, we cannot guarantee that it will be available. If received in a timely manner, at least 95 days before sailing, requests will be sent on the final manifest that our ground operators and hotels receive. We highly recommend packing your own supply, especially on programs that travel to more remote locations in order to avoid not having it. Please keep in mind the rule for liquids in carry-on bags. Many hotels will charge for distilled water. If there is a fee, this will be added to your hotel incidental account to be paid at check-out. Fees will vary from hotel to hotel.
Local Currency:
Euro (EUR)
USD are not accepted however major credit cards will be
Electricity
Voltage: 230 V, 50 Hz
Plug Type: Type C or Type E (two round pins)
Adapter Required: Guests from countries using different plugs (e.g., US, UK) will need a plug adapter
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A valid passport is required for all travelers. It must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure. Citizens of many countries (including the US, Canada, Australia, UK, and most EU countries) do not require a visa for short stays in France (up to 90 days within 180 days). Travelers from other countries may require a Schengen visa. Guests should check with their local French consulate or embassy for specific requirements.
The above information is subject to change and serves as a guide only. We would like to take this opportunity to remind all of our guests that it is the ultimate and sole responsibility of the guest to ensure they meet the entry requirements for each destination.
If traveling internationally, the countries you are flying to and/ or connecting through may have different document requirements and as such we encourage you to visit the government and airport websites of every country you will be traveling to throughout the journey to familiarize yourself with their requirements.
Accommodation:
Hôtel Fleur de Loire
26?Quai?Villebois-Mareuil, 41000?Blois, France
NH Paris Opéra Faubourg
49-51?Rue?La?Fayette, 75009 Paris, France
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotels listed in this program
Program Includes for guests:
?2 nights at the Hôtel Fleur de Loire or similar - Deluxe room (views of inner courtyard or city)
?1 night at the NH Paris Opéra Faubourg – Junior Suite
?Porterage services at the hotels at check-in and check-out
?Private airport transfer on day 4
?Modern coach transportation during tour days
?English-speaking tour guide with national license for the entire program
?Entrances per the program itinerary
?3 breakfasts at hotels
?3-course meals per the itinerary including beverages (water, 1 coffee/tea and 1 glass of wine/beer/soft drink) for included lunches and dinners
?Equestrian show
?Lunch at the Relais de Chambord Restaurant or similar venue
?Wine tasting with local products at Caves Ambacia or similar venue
?Bottled water available
?Headsets (whispers) during tour days
?RSSC Hospitality Desk – date and location TBA
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Porterage services at the airports
•Visa to France
•Early check-in, late check-out.
•Hotel incidentals including minibar, laundry, room service
•Other not mentioned meals or refreshments, additional drinks
•Blois Castle Light Show
•Entrances (sightseeing) not mentioned in the itinerary
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
Please note:
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
Thoroughly explore two of the most iconic attractions in Paris – the impossibly lavish Palace of Versailles and the Louvre Museum – and come away with a deeper appreciation for art, architecture and French culture.
Discover the unforgettable allure of Paris by exploring two legendary landmarks: marvel at the opulent Palace of Versailles, then immerse yourself in world-class masterpieces at the Louvre Museum. Elevate your experience with a delicious lunch at Madame Brasserie, perched on the Eiffel Tower’s first floor—where you’ll enjoy gourmet cuisine paired with breathtaking views of the shimmering Seine below. Let art, architecture, and French culture sweep you off your feet!
Special Note:
•If you have any food intolerances or special dietary needs, please contact the Regent Reservations Team at least 95 days prior to your departure. It is important that your land program extension reflects these details so our local vendors can ensure smooth and enjoyable dining experiences.
DAY 1
Disembark the ship in Le Havre, meet your guide and transfer to the Paris city center and your hotel for the next three nights. Drive time is approximately three hours.
Check-in at the hotel is from 4:00pm. Should you arrive earlier you may store luggage at Reception until your room is available.
All meals are on own today.
Hospitality desk time TBA- 4pm?
DAY 2
Enjoy a buffet breakfast at your hotel before meeting your guide. Today will be devoted to discovering the wonders of the Palace of Versailles, the primary residence of the French kings from the time of Louis XIV to Louis XVI. UNESCO deemed the palace worthy of a World Heritage site designation as Versailles was considered the ideal royal residence for more than a century and influenced the construction of many other palaces throughout Europe.
As you follow the guide through Versailles (headsets to be provided), you will gain an understanding of how several generations of architects and craftsmen embellished the palace – which was originally a hunting lodge – until the French Revolution forever altered the palace’s function.
Among the highlights is the king’s state apartment, a series of seven rooms lavishly decorated with marble paneling, painted ceilings and other ornamentations. The apartment was used for evening gatherings and court entertainment several times a week during the reign of Louis XIV.
Then, there is the Queen’s Apartment, whose layout is identical to the king’s state apartment, although several queens, including Marie-Antoinette, modified it.
You will also behold the Hercules Room – which features a masterpiece ceiling painting depicting the Apotheosis of Hercules – and the Hall of Mirrors, perhaps the most famous room in the palace. More than 350 mirrors bedeck the arches, a demonstration that the French could manufacture mirrors as well as the Venetians, who had a monopoly on the craft.
Following a delightful three-course lunch at a nearby restaurant, you will enjoy an enlightening tour of the king’s vegetable garden, which took five years to complete in the late 17th century and remains nearly unaltered today.
After returning to the hotel, the rest of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Important Note: The Palace of Versailles is closed on Mondays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
DAY 3
Meet your guide after a buffet breakfast at your hotel. The focus of today will be the Louvre, a former palace that is perhaps the greatest repository of art in the world. It is also the world’s most visited art museum with a collection that spans works from ancient civilizations to the mid-19th century.
As you meander independently about the galleries, you can expect to see da Vinci’s enigmatic Mona Lisa, the famed statue of Aphrodite – better known as Venus de Milo – and the Winged Victory statue that was found in a sanctuary where people prayed for protection from the dangers of the sea.
The collection is so all-encompassing that no matter what your artistic interests, you can find works that beautifully represent it. Pieces from the Italian Renaissance, by Dutch and Flemish masters and even Mesopotamian art are all on display, as well as Greek, Etruscan and Roman antiquities.
After having free time to browse in the museum shop, you will depart for the Eiffel Tower, the most iconic landmark in Paris.
Experience the elegance of dining on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Take the lift to the renowned Madame Brasserie restaurant, where you will enjoy a refined three-course lunch while overlooking the Seine and taking in views from the Trocadéro to the La Défense Business District.
Following your meal, board your coach for a panoramic drive through Paris, observing the city's notable landmarks before returning to your hotel where the remainder of the day will be at your leisure with dinner on your own.
Important Notes:
•The visit inside the Louvre is self-guided. Someone will be available on site to assist and orient you accordingly and additionally, a mobile application is available at no extra cost for guests wishing to access commentary on some of the artworks inside the museum.
•The Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. Should this affect your program date, the itinerary will be reversed.
•Lunch at Madame Brasserie includes an access ticket to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Access to the upper levels is not included. Should you wish to remain in the area, you are free to make your own way back to the hotel.
DAY 4
Should flight time allow, enjoy one last buffet breakfast at the hotel.
Check-out at the hotel is at 12:00pm. Please do not forget to settle any incidentals before departure. Local city taxes will be added to each guest folio to be paid locally.
At the designated time and based on flight details provided, (check your Welcome Letter upon arrival), you will be transferred to Charles De Gaulle airport. Should you have a late flight, luggage storage will be available at the hotel until your transfer time. Transfer time is approximately one hour to the airport depending in traffic.
Note: A private van will be used to transfer couples or parties of two between the airport and the hotel. Vans hold a maximum of four pieces of large luggage (total) plus one carry-on sized bag per person. A sedan will be used for solo guests, which can hold 2 large suitcases and a carry-on. If you will have more luggage, a larger vehicle may be required for additional cost. Please advise your booking agent at least 14 days before sailing if a larger vehicle is required. Transfers are with driver only.
Hospitality desk time TBA
Land Program Details Step by Step:
•Please note: The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. All program timings are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change.
•Itineraries with the most up to date details (at the time) will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
•The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
•A departure transfer is not included if guests leave before the last day of the program.
DAY 1
TBA Disembark the ship in Le Havre, meet your guide and transfer to the Paris city center
Drive time is approximately three hours depending on traffic
4:00pm Check in time at the hotel, luggage storage is available if you arrive sooner
Meals on own today
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 2
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to Versailles Palace
10:00am Guided visit with headsets at Versailles Palace
12:00pm Walk to a restaurant for lunch
12:30pm Lunch at La Flottille or similar venue
2:00pm Orientation tour and free time in Versailles Gardens
3:30pm Return drive to your hotel
4:30pm Remainder of the day at your leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 3
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Meet your guide in the lobby and drive to the Louvre Museum
9:00am Self-guided visit of the Louvre and free time
12:00pm Drive to the Eiffel Tower
1:00pm Access to the first floor of the Eiffel Tower
1:30pm Lunch at Madame Brasserie restaurant, on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower
3:30pm Panoramic drive through Paris
4:30pm Arrive back at your hotel, remainder of the day at leisure, dinner on own
Overnight at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel
DAY 4
AM Buffet breakfast at your hotel should flight time allow
12:00pm Check out time at the hotel
TBA Transfer to Charles De Gaulle Airport based on flight details
Drive time is approximately 1 hour
Extra Nights:
•All extra nights booked through the cruise line are confirmed at the same hotel used on the LAST NIGHT of your program.
•When you book extra nights through the cruise line, you will be transferred to the airport per the flight details provided. Check-out time is 12:00pm (subject to change). Meals other than breakfast are on your own after Day 4 of your program.
Transfers:
•All guests booking their flights independently are required to ensure the cruise line has their most up to date flight details so that transfers to the airport can be arranged. If flight details are not received 14 days before your cruise start date, transfers will not be arranged.
•Should you book any extra nights on your own or your flight is not on the last day of the program, transfers are not included.
•Should you have a late departing flight you may wish to book an extra night so that you have occupation of your room until your departure. You will be asked to vacate your room by 12:00pm. Day rooms can only be purchased directly through the hotel.
Expected Weather:
Average May high temperature: 71°F (22°C)
Average May low temperature: 52°F (11°C)
Average August high temperature: 79°F (26°C)
Average August low temperature: 58°F (14°C)
Average September high temperature: 71°F (22°C)
Average September low temperature: 52°F (11°C)
What to Bring:
Dress is generally casual, although when visiting churches your knees and shoulders must be covered. Bring good walking shoes, a hat, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring clothing that can be layered depending on the temperature of the day.
Local Currency:
The Euro is the local currency, but U.S. dollars and traveler’s checks may also be accepted in some tourist spots.
Electricity
220 volts. We suggest bringing your own travel adapter if you bring electric devices.
Accommodation:
Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris
51-57 Rue de Courcelles, 75008 Paris, France
Phone: +33 1 58 36 67 00
*We will only source different hotels in unforeseen situations. If similar hotels are required, they will be of equal ratings and standards, and you will be notified of the change. If you are not notified of any changes before your departure, then you will be staying at the hotel listed in this program.
Program Includes for guests:
•3 nights at the Hotel Du Collectionneur Paris or similar hotel, including buffet breakfasts, Prestige Room
•Touring and entrances as per above itinerary
•Self-guided tour inside the Louvre
•Private airport transfer
•Three-course lunch on Day 2 including 1 cold drink + coffee
•Three-course lunch on Day 3 including 1 glass of champagne, superior wine, filtered water and coffee
•City taxes
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated departure information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, a departure transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided.
Program Excludes for guests:
•Any meals or beverages not mentioned above
•Gratuities to drivers and guides
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar and room service
Please note: Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. Guests who utilize a wheelchair and those with mobility concerns are advised to check with the cruise line in advance to see if any portion of the tour program may not be considered suitable for their individual situation. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Please note: All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Land Programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. There are no refunds for unused portions of any program.
