Follow the footsteps of the Impressionists from Paris to Normandy, along the winding Seine, linking the city with the coast. Normandy, once shaped by the Normans, today offers postcard landscapes: half-timbered villages, grazing cattle, romantic ruins, and chalk cliffs that inspired countless painters and poets — above all, the Impressionists. Yet Normandy is more than idyllic scenery. It is a place where history changed the world. A moving ride from Omaha Beach along the D-Day beaches invites reflection. Quiet coastal roads lead past historic sites like the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer — a powerful reminder of the courage and sacrifice of June 6, 1944.
Further highlights include Monet’s famous water lily garden, the chalk cliffs of Étretat, and Rouen’s historic old town. After a day of cycling, relax aboard your ship as Paris and Normandy glide past — combining art, history, and nature into one unforgettable journey.
You decide how you want to ride: whether with a classic gravel bike or the extra support of an e-bike, the choice is yours — ensuring every guest enjoys the journey at their own pace.
Highlights
- Glamorous places on the river: Rouen, Caudebec-en-Caux, Étretat & Paris
- Picturesque landscapes: Île de France with Giverny, Les Andelys and Normandy
- D-Day Experience including guided visits to the Omaha Beach Museum and the American Cemetery
- Paris: Visit to the Museum Orangery with Monet's water lily cycle
- Accommodations on the VIVA, state of the art river cruise ship
- Choice of bikes: ride with a classic gravel bike or enjoy the support of an e-bike
- Stress-free battery-assisted cycling with a support vehicle
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Itinerary
Day 1: Paris
Day 2: Rouen | 12 mi. (20 km)
Day 3: D-Day Experience | 25 mi. (41 km)
Day 4: Caudebec-en-Caux - Côte d´Albatre | 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 5: Les Andelys - Vernon | 28 mi. (46 km)
Day 6: Cruise day on the Seine
Day 7: Paris | 22 mi. (36 km)
Day 8: Departure or extension in Paris
Route Assessment:
The total distance by bike and on foot is approx. 197 km (122 mi.).
The cycling routes mostly run on cycle paths with little traffic or on small side streets. For the hike on the coastal path, we recommend comfortable running shoes with a good grip.
Important: You can choose to ride this tour with either a gravel bike or an e-bike – whichever suits your style and pace best.
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Program
Day 1: Welcome to Paris – Embarkation & the Romance of the Seine
Your unforgettable French adventure begins in Paris, where our terranova tour guides warmly welcome you aboard your elegant floating hotel at 5:00 p.m. After settling into your comfortable cabin, take time to relax, unpack, and soak in the atmosphere of the Cruise Boat VIVA. Before dinner, your guides will introduce the journey ahead and share highlights of the exciting days to come: from the charm of Normandy to the legendary D-Day beaches and the artistic treasures of Paris. Later this evening, your ship quietly departs Paris and begins cruising toward Normandy along the beautiful Seine River. As the illuminated skyline slowly fades into the distance, enjoy your first evening on board and anticipate the extraordinary experiences awaiting you in northern France.
Day 2: Rouen – Normandy’s Medieval Jewel | 12 mi. / 20 km
Wake up surrounded by the peaceful landscapes of Normandy as your ship glides through the gentle curves of the Seine. Along the riverbanks, picturesque villages, green meadows, and wooded hills create the perfect introduction to rural France. In the afternoon, your cycling adventure begins with a relaxed ride to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the historic city of Rouen. Afterwards, explore Rouen’s beautifully preserved old town on foot with your guide. Timber-framed houses, cobblestone streets, and Gothic architecture bring centuries of history vividly to life. The magnificent Rouen Cathedral — famously painted by Claude Monet — rises dramatically above the city and remains one of Normandy’s greatest treasures. You’ll also visit the historic Place du Vieux-Marché, where Joan of Arc met her tragic fate in 1431. Your ship remains overnight in Rouen, giving you ample time to stroll through the atmospheric medieval streets at your own pace. During summer evenings, the cathedral becomes the stage for a spectacular light and music show — a magical experience we highly recommend after dinner.
Day 3: The D-Day Beaches – Cycling Through History | Approx. 25 miles / 41 km
Today is one of the emotional highlights of your journey through France. Travel to the legendary D-Day landing beaches of Normandy, where history changed forever on June 6, 1944. This deeply moving experience combines easy coastal cycling with powerful moments of remembrance and reflection. Your day begins at Omaha Beach, where American forces courageously landed during the Allied invasion of Europe. During a guided visit to the Omaha Beach Museum, authentic artifacts, personal stories, and immersive exhibits vividly recount the dramatic events of D-Day. A short ride brings you to the American Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, overlooking the English Channel. Nearly 10,000 American soldiers are buried here. Walking among the endless rows of white crosses is an unforgettable and profoundly humbling experience. The cycling route continues along Normandy’s peaceful coastline, passing sandy beaches, quiet country roads, and breathtaking sea views. The gentle terrain allows plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and reflect on the significance of this historic landscape. Midday, we pause for a relaxed picnic lunch overlooking the coast before returning comfortably by transfer to your ship in Rouen.
Day 4: Étretat & the Spectacular Alabaster Coast | Approx. 31 miles / 50 km
This morning, we travel to one of France’s most stunning coastal regions, the famous Alabaster Coast. The charming seaside town of Étretat is renowned for its dramatic white chalk cliffs and extraordinary rock formations rising from the Atlantic Ocean. A short and easy walk along the cliffs reveals breathtaking panoramic views that inspired artists such as Monet, Boudin, and Manet. After time to fully appreciate this extraordinary scenery, continue by bike through the idyllic Norman countryside. Quiet lanes lead past traditional farms, grazing white cattle, charming villages, and elegant manor houses. Your bike ride ends in Lillebonne, where a comfortable transfer returns you to your ship in Caudebec-en-Caux. Relax on board this evening as the Seine quietly carries you deeper into the heart of France.
Day 5: Richard the Lionheart’s Castle & Monet’s Garden | Approx. 28 miles / 46 km
Today combines medieval history, magnificent landscapes, and the beauty of French Impressionism. Your ship arrives in Les Andelys, where the ruins of Richard the Lionheart’s mighty Château Gaillard tower high above the Seine River. Perched dramatically atop white limestone cliffs, the castle offers spectacular views across the valley below. After a guided walk through the historic ruins, continue by e-bike along scenic riverside paths toward Giverny — the beloved home of Claude Monet. Monet lived here for over 40 years, creating many of his world-famous masterpieces inspired by his enchanting gardens and water lily ponds. Walking through the vibrant flower gardens and across the iconic Japanese bridge feels like stepping directly into one of his paintings. The ride continues along peaceful country roads to La Roche-Guyon, one of the most beautiful villages along the Seine. Its impressive château rises directly from the limestone cliffs above the river. In the early evening, a short transfer returns you to your ship in Vernon.
Day 6: Savoir-Vivre on the Seine
Today offers a leisurely day of cruising aboard the VIVA as we gracefully navigate the Today is dedicated to relaxation and enjoying the timeless beauty of the Seine River. As your ship cruises gently back toward Paris, sit back and savor the changing scenery of the Île-de-France region from the comfort of the sun deck or lounge. During the afternoon, your tour guide will offer fascinating insights into French culture, traditions, history, and everyday life — a wonderful opportunity to deepen your appreciation for this remarkable country. Whether enjoying a glass of wine on deck, unwinding in the wellness area, or simply watching the French countryside drift by, today perfectly captures the art of French “savoir-vivre.”
Day 7: Paris Urban Quaters & Museum Orangerie | Approx. 22 miles / 36 km
Your final cycling day is dedicated to one of the world’s most beautiful cities: Paris. You explore Paris by bike along scenic bike paths, riverside promenades, and charming neighborhoods largely free from traffic. This intimate perspective allows you to experience the city like a true Parisian. Cycle along the Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine River while admiring iconic landmarks including Notre-Dame Cathedral, Île Saint-Louis, Pont Neuf, and the elegant boulevards of central Paris. A cultural highlight awaits at the Musée de l’Orangerie in the Tuileries Gardens, home to Monet’s breathtaking Water Lilies series. During a guided visit, discover the revolutionary world of French Impressionism and the artists who transformed modern art. Following lunch break near Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées, continue to the elegant Pont Alexandre III and the magnificent Invalides district before arriving at the renowned Rodin Museum. Here, masterpieces such as The Thinker and The Kiss showcase the emotional brilliance of France’s greatest sculptor. This unforgettable final ride concludes back in Paris before a festive farewell dinner aboard your ship.
Day 8: Au revoir Paris or extension in a beautiful Hotel in Paris
After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your floating home and disembark in Paris. For guests wishing to extend their stay, Paris offers endless opportunities for discovery — from world-class museums and charming cafés to elegant shopping streets and hidden neighborhoods waiting to be explored. Whether you choose a luxurious palace hotel, a charming boutique property, or a cozy Parisian retreat, we are happy to assist you with personalized hotel recommendations for your extended stay. After all, Paris is a city best enjoyed without rushing — and one more night in the French capital is always a wonderful idea.
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It's important to note that we reserve the right to make changes to the timetable and program of our journeys. Factors such as high and low tides, maintenance work, and waiting times at locks and bridges may necessitate adjustments to the itinerary at short notice. While we strive to provide a seamless experience, occasional changes may be required.
In rare instances of high or low tide or force majeure situations, parts of the route may need to be covered by alternative transportation such as bus or train. In exceptional cases, hotel accommodation may also be necessary. Rest assured, our priority is to ensure the safety and comfort of our guests while providing an enjoyable and memorable journey. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility in such circumstances.
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