From Paris to London (Greenwich) · Europe (River) · 13 nights
Designed specifically for the river Seine, the elegant Scenic Gem accommodates just 124 guests in stylish surroundings.
Sleek and contemporary, with an extensive list of onboard
inclusions, Scenic’s aptly named Space-Ships are renowned for their
high levels of personal service, relaxed ambience and inviting
public areas.
Paris is a joyful expression of all that is glorious about France, a city of rarified tastes, romantic riverside walks and the occasional rather rude waiter. Although the sights will be familiar even to first-time visitors, this does nothing to lessen their impact; a word like 'iconic' doesn't quite do justice to that first glimpse of Gustave Eiffel's famous tower looming over the Seine. Culture vultures will be in seventh heaven, with a plethora of galleries and museums housing some of the finest art collections in the world, and the restaurant scene is absolutely first class.
The picturesque town of Les Andelys, situated on a bend in the river Seine, is best known for the ruins of Château Gaillard. Richard the Lionheart ordered the construction of this imposing fortress at the end of the 12th century, and it took just two years to build, a remarkable feat.
Rouen has endured a turbulent history: it was here that Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake in 1431, and much of the city was destroyed during World War II. Many cruise visitors head straight for Paris, an hour away by train, which is a shame since there’s so much to see in Rouen, including a beautiful cathedral and the atmospheric Medieval quarter.
Situated on the southern bank of the Seine estuary, Honfleur was once one of France’s most important ports. It was also a favourite location of Monet and the Impressionists, and art lovers may well recognise the elegant Renaissance architecture of the old harbour, the Vieux Bassin.
The picturesque town of Vernon, with its timber-framed houses and medieval church, is a pleasant place for a riverside stroll, but most visitors are just passing through en route to Claude Monet’s house and beautiful gardens in the nearby village of Giverny.
Paris is a joyful expression of all that is glorious about France, a city of rarified tastes, romantic riverside walks and the occasional rather rude waiter. Culture vultures will be in seventh heaven, with a plethora of galleries and museums housing some of the finest art collections in the world, and the restaurant scene is absolutely first class.
Greenwich was once the seat of British naval power, and you can learn more about the area’s seafaring heritage at the fascinating National Maritime Museum. Other attractions include the Cutty Sark, the O2 Arena and the Royal Observatory, where you can straddle two hemispheres by placing one foot either side of the Greenwich Meridian Line.
