Paris & Normandy (Smithsonian Journeys)

EMBARKATION - PARIS, FRANCE. Settle into your journey through Northern France as Paris dazzles with its vibrant energy, Monet’s Gardens and the charming harbor of Honfleur inspire your creativity, and Normandy’s dramatic coastline, historic D-Day beaches, and grand châteaux immerse you in art, history, and beauty.

LES ANDELYS. In Les Andelys, the dramatic cliffs above the Seine reveal Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s legendary fortress. Learn about medieval military strategy and architectural ingenuity as you explore the site, or take a guided hike or bike ride along the river, discovering the region’s history and landscapes. End your day with a leisurely Seine cruise, reflecting on Normandy’s rich heritage and the stories etched into its rolling hills and historic towns.

Le Havre, founded by King Francis I of France in 1517, is located inUpper Normandy on the north bank of the mouth of the River Seine, which isconsidered the most frequented waterway in the world. Its port is ranked thesecond largest in France. The city was originally built on marshland andmudflats that were drained in the 1500’s. During WWII most of Le Havre wasdestroyed by Allied bombing raids. Post war rebuilding of the city followed thedevelopment plans of the well-known Belgian architect Auguste Perre. Thereconstruction was so unique that the entire city was listed as a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site in 2005. 

LE HAVRE. Cross the Seine to Honfleur, a charming fishing town whose picturesque harbor inspired artists like Monet, Corot, and Boudin. In the afternoon, return to Le Havre to discover the city’s post–World War II reconstruction and UNESCO-protected architecture by Auguste Perret. Alternatively, spend a full-day exploring Normandy’s Pays d’Auge region, with its timeless villages and historic half-timbered houses

Le Havre, founded by King Francis I of France in 1517, is located inUpper Normandy on the north bank of the mouth of the River Seine, which isconsidered the most frequented waterway in the world. Its port is ranked thesecond largest in France. The city was originally built on marshland andmudflats that were drained in the 1500’s. During WWII most of Le Havre wasdestroyed by Allied bombing raids. Post war rebuilding of the city followed thedevelopment plans of the well-known Belgian architect Auguste Perre. Thereconstruction was so unique that the entire city was listed as a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site in 2005. 

LE HAVRE – NORMANDY BEACHES – CAUDEBEC EN CAUX. Let Normandy’s landscapes tell their stories, from the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer to the village of Arromanches, where the remains of the floating harbor used during WWII landings can be seen. Discover maritime treasures at the Seine Museum, or admire the quiet cemeteries and wartime relics that mark the bravery of another era.

Le Havre, founded by King Francis I of France in 1517, is located inUpper Normandy on the north bank of the mouth of the River Seine, which isconsidered the most frequented waterway in the world. Its port is ranked thesecond largest in France. The city was originally built on marshland andmudflats that were drained in the 1500’s. During WWII most of Le Havre wasdestroyed by Allied bombing raids. Post war rebuilding of the city followed thedevelopment plans of the well-known Belgian architect Auguste Perre. Thereconstruction was so unique that the entire city was listed as a UNESCO WorldHeritage Site in 2005. 

LE HAVRE – NORMANDY BEACHES – CAUDEBEC EN CAUX. Let Normandy’s landscapes tell their stories, from the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer to the village of Arromanches, where the remains of the floating harbor used during WWII landings can be seen. Discover maritime treasures at the Seine Museum, or admire the quiet cemeteries and wartime relics that mark the bravery of another era.

ROUEN. History comes alive in Rouen. Take a guided walk through its medieval center, from the Joan of Arc memorial square to Monet’s beloved cathedral, or delve into the city’s Jewish heritage at the Maison Sublime. Later, choose between sampling regional craftsmanship on a Normandy tasting tour or discovering the city by bike before visiting the elegant 16th-century Château de Bonnemare.

VERNON. Sail into Vernon for a day of enriching discovery, where you can explore Claude Monet’s preserved home and the gardens that inspired his most iconic works. Tour his studio, view his collection of Japanese prints, and wander the landscapes he carefully designed. Or, revel in the grandeur of Château de Bizy and embrace adventure on a guided bike ride through its sweeping countryside.

PARIS. Enhance your understanding of art and culture with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, where Vincent van Gogh spent his prolific final months and where you can step inside his attic room at the Auberge Ravoux. Or, stay in Paris to view the world’s largest Monet collection at the Musée Marmottan, or follow an enlightening tour tracing Josephine Baker’s life and lasting influence on Black history and French culture.

PARIS – DISEMBARKATION. Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home. (B)

B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.