2027 A Taste of France Riverboat Cruise
Riverboat

2027 A Taste of France Riverboat Cruise

Jun 29, 2027  -  Jul 06, 2027
  • Paris
  • La Rouche Guyon/Les Andelys
  • Caudebec/Normandy
  • Rouen
  • Conflans
  • Paris
Food, wine, art, history–this trip is your perfect “taste” of France!BOOK ONLINE OR CALL AN OLIVIA TRAVEL™ CONSULTANTBook Your Perfect Trip

Avalon Waterways

Creating a Sustainable Tomorrow

Avalon is our partner and is charting an ambitious course toward zero emissions and sustainability in every aspect of cruising. Avalon’s state-of-the-art fleet of Suite Ships® and top-of-the-line technology limit energy, consumption and emissions. Plus, Avalon’s waste and recycling programs reduce our environmental footprint, save water and foster a sustainable culture among crew and guests worldwide. Avalon’s leadership in sustainability has been recognized by the Green Award Foundation, granting Green Award status to their entire European fleet, including a Gold Award for the Avalon Alegria. This is just the beginning of what we have planned to protect our beautiful Mother Earth, and her fans.

  • Gentle Walkers Group

    Whenever possible, we will create a Gentle Walkers group on each included tour for any guests who need a little extra time walking, perhaps guests with scooters or canes or photographers who like to stop frequently to take photos. For those with mobility issues, we suggest purchasing a cane that can also fold out to be a seat so you can rest while the group stops to listen to the guide. There are many different styles to choose from online on sites such as amazon.com. 

    Please note that on the optional tours, we are not able to offer a Gentle Walkers group. If you are unsure of your ability to take a specific tour, please discuss your concerns with the cruise director on board. 

What's Included

  • Accommodations for 8 days/7 nights on the Avalon Tapestry II, one of the finest riverboats on the Seine
  • All meals while on board
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; coffee, tea, and juices with all meals; beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Daily Happy Hour with included selected drinks (top shelf drinks additional cost)
  • Filtered water refilled in reusable bottles in cabins daily
  • Standard wifi in all cabins and public areas
  • Olivia entertainment and programming, as well as local entertainment
  • Included sightseeing tours in each port
  • Gratuities to ship crew and Avalon cruise director
  • Team Olivia assistance throughout
What's Included
  • What's Not Included
    • International airfare
    • Airport transfers
    • Optional excursions
    • Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and soft drinks (except where indicated)
    • Phone/fax
    • Gratuities to local tour guides and bus drivers
    • Travel insurance & personal incidentals

Itinerary

  • Day 1Paris, FranceembarkationTuesday, Jun 29, 2027

    Welcome to France! Your Suite Ship® is ready for boarding. For early arrivals, you are welcome to come to the ship as early as 8:30 am, have coffee in the lounge, drop off your things and enjoy the city before check-in begins at 4pm. Then, spend your day soaking in the charm of Paris before embarking on your Seine Riverboat Cruise. Whether you choose to shop, take a leisurely stroll, or relax at a café with a croissant and café au lait, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience the magic of the City of Lights. Flights into Paris must arrive by 2:30 pm. Guests must be on board the ship by 5 pm.

    Overnight cruise to Vernon (-/-/D)

  • Day 2La Rouche Guyon/Les Andelys, FranceWednesday, Jun 30, 2027

    La Roche-Guyon rises like a fairytale from chalk cliffs, crowned by its medieval château and wrapped in riverside gardens. Les Andelys charms with timbered houses and the dramatic ruins of Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s fortress perched high above the river.

    This afternoon, enjoy a scenic cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys.

    Evening/overnight cruise to Caudebec (B/L/D)

    Choose one of the Active, Classic or Discovery tours:

    • Active: Enjoy a day kayaking with an expert guide.
    • Discovery: Join a Guided Visit to Château de La Roche-Guyon, complete with its elegant courtyard, tranquil water garden, and historic stables.
    • Discovery: Immerse yourself in the world of impressionism with a guided visit to Giverny, the beloved home and inspiration of Claude Monet. Wander through his charming residence and the iconic flower and water gardens featured in his masterpieces.
    • Discovery: While sailing, indulge in a traditional French luncheon featuring authentic crêpes, followed by a delightful onboard pastry demonstration.

    Following an afternoon of scenic cruising to the picturesque town of Les Andelys, choose one of the Active, Classic or Discovery tours:

    • Active: Embark on a guided hike to the dramatic hilltop ruins of Château Gaillard, once the formidable stronghold of King Richard the Lionheart.
    • Classic: Take a guided stroll through Les Andelys, a charming town renowned as a scenic gems along the Seine.
    • Discovery: Enjoy an onboard lecture about the days before and after the Normandy landing of D-Day.

  • Day 3Caudebec, France / Excursion to NormandyThursday, Jul 1, 2027

    Caudebec is a gateway to Normandy’s soul where Gothic spires meet riverside calm. Savor Normandy’s pastoral beauty including apple orchards, abbeys and timeless villages, each whispering tales of resilience and romance.

    Evening/overnight cruise to Rouen. (B/L/D)

    Choose one of the Classic tours:

    • Classic: Journey to Fécamp for a visit to the historic Palais Bénédictine, where the renowned Bénédictine liqueur is crafted. Enjoy a self-guided tour followed by a hands-on cocktail workshop featuring this iconic spirit. On your return to Caudebec, stop for a photo stop in Étretat to admire the breathtaking cliffs of the Alabaster Coast.
    • Classic: Take a full-day guided tour of the historic WWII landing beaches of Normandy, focusing on key U.S. landmarks. Visit Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery.
    • Classic: Embark on a full-day guided tour of British and Canadian WWII memorials. Highlights include the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the coastal town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery—each offering a moving tribute to the Allied forces who fought for freedom.
  • Day 4Rouen, FranceFriday, Jul 2, 2027

    Step ashore in Rouen, Normandy’s storied capital. Wander past half-timbered houses to the majestic Rouen Cathedral, immortalized by Monet and stand in the square where Joan of Arc’s courage became legend. In the afternoon, you're free to explore the city on your own.

    Overnight docking in Rouen (B/L/D)

    Choose one of the Active, Classic, or Discovery tours:

    • Active: Discover Rouen’s iconic landmarks and hidden treasures on a guided bike tour through the city’s historic streets and scenic corners.
    • Classic: Join a guided tour of the magnificent Musée des Beaux-Arts de Rouen, home to one of France’s most exceptional fine art collections. Admire masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rubens, Monet, Degas, and many others.
    • Classic: Take a guided walking tour through Rouen, the historic city where Saint Joan of Arc met her fate. Explore the medieval quarter, marvel at the 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and visit the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame Cathedral.
    • Discovery: Enjoy an engaging onboard presentation exploring the world of art and impressionism, offering insights into the movement’s history and its most influential artists.
  • Day 5Rouen, FranceSaturday, Jul 3, 2027

    Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities.

    Evening/Overnight cruise to Conflans (B/L/D)

    Classic Tour: Enjoy a guided visit to the splendid Château de Bonnemare, a Renaissance-era castle nestled in the tranquil natural landscapes of Normandy.

  • Day 6Conflans, FranceSunday, Jul 4, 2027

    Known as the “Capital of Inland Navigation”, Conflans cobbled streets and willow-lined banks invite quiet wanderings, while the Musée de la Batellerie tells stories of life on the water. Follow in Van Gogh’s footsteps to nearby Auvers-sur-Oise, where wheat fields and hilltop churches inspired his final masterpieces.

    Afternoon sailing to Paris / Overnight docking in Paris (B/L/D)

    Choose one of the Active, Classic, or Discovery tours:

    • Active: Set off on a guided E-bike adventure to the elegant Château de Maisons-Laffitte, where you’ll pause to enjoy a special treat amid its historic charm.
    • Classic: Join a guided tour of Auvers-sur-Oise and trace the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who lived, worked, and is buried in this village. Explore the landscapes that appear in many of his iconic paintings.
    • Classic: Take a guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison, the former residence of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine.
    • Discovery: Create your own Chantilly cream during a hands-on experience set in the enchanting grounds of Chantilly Castle.
  • Day 7Paris, FranceMonday, Jul 5, 2027

    Spend the night where romance never sleeps: Paris. As evening falls, watch the Seine shimmer beneath bridges, stroll past illuminated boulevards and savor a late-night café or cabaret.
    This afternoon, you may stroll through Paris on your own or linger over wine in a literary café on the Left Bank.

    Overnight docking in Paris (B/L/D)

    Choose one of the Active, Classic, or Discovery tours:

    • Active: Hop on a bike and discover Paris like a local during this guided tour through its iconic landmarks, captivating history, and vibrant atmosphere.
    • Classic: Join a guided sightseeing, which will show you magnificent must-see sights.
    • Discovery: Immerse yourself in our Food and Cultural Tour of Paris and discover why French culinary traditions have earned a place on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
  • Day 8Paris, FrancedisembarkTuesday, Jul 6, 2027

    Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

    (B/-/-)

Itinerary

*Itinerary is subject to change.

Entertainment

Enjoy nightly entertainment with two Olivia entertainers and local performers. We will announce our Olivia entertainment soon. 

Your Ship: Avalon Tapestry II

Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Tapestry II features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary wifi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. Make yourself at home in the Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate, and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day. Relax and watch the world go by in the Observation Lounge for the perfect vantage point!

Total Occupancy: 128

Your Ship: Avalon Tapestry II
  • Ship Amenities
    • An entirely non-smoking interior
    • Lounge
    • Covered Observation Lounge
    • Beautiful bars and lounges
    • Sun deck with premium lounge chairs and shade awnings
    • Laundry service (not self-service; check pricing on board)
    • Fitness center
    • Panoramic windows throughout the ship
    • Elegant, contemporary design throughout
    • Elevator
    • Bikes, walking sticks, binoculars, daypacks
    • Maps for hiking, biking, and jogging routes
    • Included shore excursions with local guides
    • Headsets for shore excursions
    • Complimentary wifi
    • Space to relax & unwind
    • Premium coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes
    • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
    • A lounge serving premium spirits (extra charge)
    • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
    • Daily early- and late-riser breakfast
    • Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, with complimentary juices and made-to-order egg station*
    • Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
    • Daily “Happy Hour” with complimentary alcoholic drinks as indicated on drink menu
    • Al fresco lunches on the Sky Bistro
    • Remarkable service throughout the cruise
    • English-speaking crew
  • Room Amenities

    172-300 sq. ft. Staterooms and Suites, some of the largest on the river

    • Most with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors
    • Comfort Collection BedsSM
    • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
    • Bathrobes & slippers
    • Premium L'Occitane bath products
    • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
    • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
    • Individual climate control and in-room safe
    • Full-size closet and mirror
    • Additional under-bed storage
    • Well-stocked mini-bar
    • Nonallergenic duvets and pillows
    • Filtered water replenished in bottles daily
    • And, much more
  • Dining & Drinks
    • Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
    • Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
    • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
    • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
    • Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
    • Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast
    • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options, and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge
    • Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
    • Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts or cheese
    • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
    • Complimentary alcoholic drinks during daily “Happy Hour” as specified on drink menu. 
    • Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy, and allergy-free selections
    • Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits*, cozy seating, panoramic windows, & dance floor
    • Cocktails* with a view on the Sky Deck (weather permitting).
    • Specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

      *Extra charge

Payment Plans

Two payment plan options are available when booking online or through a Travel Consultant:

1. Olivia 6-Month Interest-Free Payment Plan: Olivia's No-Interest Payment Plan gives you the ability to pay for your vacation, without interest, over 6 monthly payments. This option is available for trips departing 12 months or more after the booking date.

2. Flex Pay Loans: Need to extend your payments over more time? Apply for a Flex Pay loan!

Cancellation Policy & Travel Insurance

Unexpected events can cause you to cancel your vacation. Because we are committed to this charter, we must strictly adhere to our cancellation policy as outlined in our Olivia Terms & Conditions. Transfer funds are nonrefundable and nontransferable from the point of sale forward.

Olivia recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your trip investment against the unexpected. Visit our Insurance page for more information. For a travel insurance quote, more information or to purchase a protection plan, please call Olivia at 800-631-6277 and select option 1 for a Travel Consultant. You may also purchase insurance online after your checkout.

Cancellation Fees 

  • 365 days or more prior to trip date: on or before 6/29/2026

    Cancellation Penalty: 50% of trip cost

  • 0-364 days prior to trip date: 6/30/2026 - 6/29/2027

    Cancellation Penalty: 100% of trip cost (no refund)

Traveler Information

  • About Our Destination

    Being LGBTQ+ in France

    Being LGBTQ+ is widely accepted in France.

    Climate

    June and July bring lots of sunshine to these parts of France. Temperatures typically range from 57°F, to a sunny, warm 77°F! Plan to dress in layers and prepare for anything. Check www.weather.com for the most current weather.

    Currency

    France uses the Euro. Check www.xe.com for current rates.

    Languages

    The languages most commonly spoken is French, but most people also speak English.

  • Before Your Trip

    Community: Joining the Online Trip Group

    If you'd like to chat with people who are going on the trip, join Olivia’s official 2027 A Taste of France Riverboat Cruise group on Facebook.

    Olivia Honeymoons and Celebrations Registration

    Register at Olivia Honeymoon Wishes for your honeymoon, anniversary, or other special celebration; browse through the selections and let your friends know just how easy it is for them to purchase a gift for you.

    Special Occasions

    If you will celebrate a birthday or any other special event during the week of your trip that you have not already told your Olivia Travel Consultant about, please let us know as soon as possible, but no less than 90 days prior to the trip.

    Specific Needs: Dietary, Medical, Mobility, and Other

    If you have any medical, mobility, dietary, or other special requirements that you haven't yet shared, please reach out to [email protected] as soon as possible. To verify if we can accommodate your needs, kindly do so at least 90 days before your trip.

    Travel & Entry Requirements

    We’ve provided an easy tool to allow you to check the latest requirements and provisions for your travel plans: please click here. For specific entry requirements to your chosen destination, simply click on your arrival country under "Where to?" and enter your travel dates.

    Passports & Visas: All travelers will need a passport that is valid for six months after the last day of your trip. If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa.

    If you are not a U.S. citizen, please check with both your country’s consulate and the consulates of France to ensure that you do not need an entry visa or other additional documentation.

    IMPORTANT: The European Union is introducing the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) in 2026. ETIAS is designed as an entry requirement for visa-exempt nationals traveling from 60 countries, including the United States and Canada. This system is being implemented to enhance security and streamline the entry process for travelers visiting the European Union.

    Starting in 2026, if you are planning to visit one of the 30 EU countries for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, you will be required to complete a digital application through the official ETIAS website or mobile application. This requirement will apply to travelers who do not currently need a visa for entry into these countries. While this might be an additional step in your travel preparations, it is designed to improve your overall experience by reducing waiting times and enhancing security measures. You can fill out your applications at: https://www.etiaseu.com/ once the site goes live. Please be aware that most ETIAS applications will incur a processing fee of 20 Euros. It is free for people over the age of 70. These ETIAS are good for up to 3 years with unlimited entries.  (dates and prices subject to change)

    Canadians: Please visit the Canadian ETIAS for more information and to fill out your application when it goes live in 2026. ETIAS Application Form | Apply ETIAS from Canada

    Vacation Stretchers

    Since we will have an overnight in Paris at the end of the cruise, we will not be offering vacation stretchers for this trip. To assist with your pre- or post-trip plans (air, hotel, transfers, and more), we recommend our LGBTQ+ Travel agent, Debbie Gudis, at Go Travel: (877) 777-5210 or (408) 364-7300.

    Vaccinations 

    Please check with your local Public Health Department or personal physician regarding immunization requirements for all countries on your itinerary. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention’s website at www.cdc.gov. Just click “Travelers’ Health” followed by “Vaccinations.” 

  • Travel and Arrival

    Air Travel

    Airports: You will need to fly into and out of Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) or Paris Orly Airport (ORY).  We encourage all guests to arrive at least one day early to avoid the stress of unexpected delays. 

    Airfare Discounts: Save up to 10% on your airfare through our partner, United Airlines. Discount codes will be posted approximately 11 months prior to the trip date. 

    Flight Arrival and Departure Times:
    Arrival: Flights into Paris should arrive by 2 pm on June 29, 2027.  For early arrivals, you are welcome to come to the ship as early as 8 am, have coffee in the lounge, drop off your things, and enjoy the city before check-in begins at 4 pm. 

    Departure: Flights out of Paris can be at any time on July 6, 2027. Guests are asked to vacate their cabins by 8 am, but the lounge is available to guests until 11 am.

    Luggage Allowances: Airlines often restrict (or charge) excess baggage. Because each airline is different, and the regulations change over time, please check with your airline for baggage allowances. For ease of travel in Europe, we recommend bringing no more than one large piece and a smaller carry-on.

    Ship Embarkation

    Check-In: Official check-in will be available in the late afternoon. If arriving to the ship prior to check-in, you can board the ship after 8:30 am, drop off your luggage, and enjoy the lounge with small snacks and coffee, tea, and water. You can also venture out on your own to enjoy Paris or choose an optional afternoon tour. Suites and staterooms will be available to access after 4 pm.

    Port Location: The riverboat will be docked in Paris at a location approximately 45 minutes from Paris International Airport (CDG). Exact location will be shared in your final trip documents, which will be sent 2–3 weeks prior to departure, or on the AvalonGo app a few days prior to embarking.

  • During Your Trip

    Electricity

    The cabins have 110- and 220-volt electricity. Adapters should have 2 round prongs (type C). One USB outlet is also available.

    Entertainment & Programming

    We will bring two Olivia entertainers to perform on several evenings, as well as enjoy some local entertainment along the way.

    River cruising is all about port destinations. Don’t expect the same ship-activity packed schedule you might find on a big ship or resort! On a typical day, following breakfast, we will enjoy a walking tour of the new city we have arrived in, followed by lunch on board and either an optional extra walking (or other) tour or free time to explore. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a fun and informative lecture on the history of the area or take that well-deserved nap. It’s your vacation! In the evenings, we will be delighted by local entertainers or one of our two Olivia artists. After the shows, enjoy our riverboat version of “Club O,” with our talented staff taking turns being a “guest DJ” to provide dancing music in the main lounge. Or you may choose to get to bed early for your next full day!

    Excursions

    A walking and/or city tour is included in each of the ports visited. Optional tours, ranging in price from approximately €39 to €79, may be booked on the Avalon website about 30 days prior to the trip or on board and will not conflict with your included tours.

    Gratuities

    Gratuities are provided to your Avalon cruise director, cabin steward, dining room steward, bus person, maître d', reception, bar staff, and other behind-the-scenes crew members and are included in the cost of the cruise.

    Tipping is not included for the local guides and bus drivers on included tours and optional tours. We recommend the following as a guideline:
    Local guide: half day—5 Euros pp / full day—8+ Euros pp
    Bus driver: half day—2 Euros pp / full day—3 Euros pp

    Should you receive exceptional service and wish to tip more, this is completely at your discretion. 

    Internet and Email

    Complimentary wifi is included on board in public spaces and in your cabin for use on your personal digital devices (phone, laptop, or tablet computer). There is an onboard internet center with two desktop computers for guest use. Faxes can be sent from the reception desk for a charge.

    Laundry Services

    Laundry and pressing services are available; prices will be available onboard the ship. Dry-cleaning and self-service laundry facilities are not available.

    Medical Services

    The ship will be minutes away from hospitals when we are docked and will be close to local towns when we are cruising along the river. The ship does not have an onboard doctor.

    Money: On-Board Purchases

    The currency used on board is Euros (€). All purchases made on the ship will be charged to your onboard account, which you will create when you first check in. Cash, Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are accepted. Please check with the ship’s front office for further details.

    Phone

    Each cabin has a phone for calling other cabins and for making international and local calls. There is an additional fee to use this phone for international or local calls; cost is available on board. We suggest that you check with your cell phone provider for international service.

    Smoking policy

    The interior of the Avalon Tapestry II is entirely nonsmoking. Smoking is not permitted in your cabins or on your cabin’s Open-AirSM balcony. A smoking area will be designated on an outdoor deck.

  • After Your Trip

    Transfers to the Airport

    The ship will be happy to assist in arranging for a taxi at a specific time. Payment for the taxi can be made with the driver.

Personalized Programs on this Trip