Britain Sampler with Paris to Normandy

River/Barge Cruise

16 Day River Cruise London to Paris
Join us for an adventure on this guided tour of Britain to sample iconic and inspiringly beautiful locales in England and Scotland. See the classic landmarks in exciting London, including Big Ben, and take an excursion to see the mysterious Stonehenge, and the excavations of the Roman Baths. Your Globus guided vacation in Britain also takes you to Liverpool (home of the Beatles), and Edinburgh, Scotland. Visit York, England, as well as William Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon, before concluding your England and Scotland vacation tour in London.

Your Britain Sampler vacation segues into a wonderful French river cruise from Paris to Normandy aboard your Avalon Suite Ship®. You’ll board a Eurostar train from London to Paris to embark on your Seine River cruise from the “City of Light.”

You’ll first sail to Vernon, where you’ll choose between two exciting guided visits—Claude Monet’s stunning gardens at Giverny or the remarkable Bizy Castle, known as “Normandy’s Versailles.” You may choose to go on an excursion to the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, including Omaha Beach, the Point du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery. In Rouen, best known as the site of Joan of Arc’s persecution, you’ll go on a guided walk through the medieval quarter. From Conflans, join an excursion to the quaint and inspiring town of Auvers-Sur-Oise—the inspiration of famous artists, including Vincent van Gogh—or visit Napoleon and Josephine’s Malmaison.

On this French river cruise, enjoy wine, cheese, and beautiful scenery along the Seine River. Discover the true heart of Paris on a guided walk through the sites of Paris’ rich history, or take a tour showing you the iconic sites of this enchanting city.

Notes:

This tour requires some uphill walking on rough terrain at Edinburgh Castle which may pose a challenge to guests with physical limitations or reliant on mobility devices such as wheelchairs. Some walking to return to your hotel is necessary after the Edinburgh Tattoo (departures including the Tattoo performance).
Headsets available on tour except for London.
In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
Departure July 6th will operate the cruise portion in a revised order: Day 9 Paris, Day 10 Paris, Day 11 Conflans, Day 12 Les Andelys-Rouen, Day 13 Caudebec, Day 14 Caudebec. Normandy excursions, Day 15 Vernon, Day 16 Paris.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances included on departures August 3, 10, 17 and 24.

From price

$13,344

$11,244

From price per person, twin share

Tour Provider	Avalon Waterways
Number Of Days	16
Start Location	London, United Kingdom
End Location	Paris, France
Age Range	Avg. 40+
Group Size	20 to 90
Tour Style	Premium
Tour Themes	River/Small ship/Barge
Physical Rating	Easy to Moderate

Departure dates

From price per person, twin share

Start	End	Availability	Price
05 Apr 2027	20 Apr 2027	Available	$13,794 $12,394
12 Apr 2027	27 Apr 2027	Available	$13,524 $12,124
19 Apr 2027	04 May 2027	Available	$14,574 $13,699
10 May 2027	25 May 2027	Available	$14,049 $13,839
28 Jun 2027	13 Jul 2027	Available	$13,449 $11,349
12 Jul 2027	27 Jul 2027	Available	$13,344 $11,244
26 Jul 2027	10 Aug 2027	Available	$13,974 $11,874
02 Aug 2027	17 Aug 2027	Available	$13,779 $11,679
09 Aug 2027	24 Aug 2027	Available	$13,879 $11,779
16 Aug 2027	31 Aug 2027	Available	$14,079 $11,979
23 Aug 2027	07 Sep 2027	Available	$14,479 $13,229
30 Aug 2027	14 Sep 2027	Available	$16,828 $16,478
06 Sep 2027	21 Sep 2027	Available	$14,149 $13,449
27 Sep 2027	12 Oct 2027	Available	$13,444 $12,894
04 Oct 2027	19 Oct 2027	Available	$13,024 $11,974
11 Oct 2027	26 Oct 2027	Available	$13,024 $12,324
08 May 2028	23 May 2028	Available	$14,126 $13,076
15 May 2028	30 May 2028	Available	$13,926 $13,226
29 May 2028	13 Jun 2028	Available	$13,926 $13,226
26 Jun 2028	11 Jul 2028	Available	$13,669 $11,869
31 Jul 2028	15 Aug 2028	Available	$13,969 $12,169
07 Aug 2028	22 Aug 2028	Available	$14,069 $12,269
21 Aug 2028	05 Sep 2028	Available	$14,669 $13,269
04 Sep 2028	19 Sep 2028	Available	$14,255 $13,555
11 Sep 2028	26 Sep 2028	Available	$14,026 $13,151
02 Oct 2028	17 Oct 2028	Available	$13,169 $12,119

Itinerary details

Day 1 - LONDON, ENGLAND

Welcome to London!
Uniformed Globus Hosts will be waiting to welcome you. Free time this afternoon.

Day 2 - LONDON

The Royal Treatment

Morning sightseeing with a Local Guide includes the Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Whitehall, Prime Minister’s Downing Street residence, Piccadilly Circus, Buckingham Palace, and a visit to St. Paul’s Cathedral.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SITES See the legendary landmarks of England’s historic capital city. Walk where voices have rung out for centuries in Parliament Square and where chimes rise high above you with the ringing of Big Ben’s quarter bells. See Westminster Abbey, where royal coronations, weddings, and funerals have made history.

(B)

Day 3 - LONDON–STONEHENGE–BATH

Ancient Stones & Spa Days
Meet your Tour Director and travel companions to depart at 8 am for a memorable day of sightseeing. Try to unravel the mystery of prehistoric Stonehenge and explore the visitor center with its imaginative exhibitions. Cross Salisbury Plain and head for the elegant city of Bath, where you’ll see the amazing excavations of the Roman Baths. Enjoy some free time in the city before enjoying a welcome dinner at your hotel.
125 mi / 201 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEMS The traditions of one ancient Roman ritual are in full flow in Bath, amid the remarkable Roman and Georgian architecture and the best-preserved Roman Baths of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city of Bath sits above geothermal springs that bubble up from the limestone below. Bath also turns up the heat with some of Britain's grandest Georgian buildings, a mecca for elite 18th-century society.

(B,D)

Day 4 - BATH–LUDLOW–LLANGOLLEN, WALES–LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND

Welsh Country Beauties
This morning, drive through the Severn Valley to the medieval market town of Ludlow before crossing the border into North Wales. Take a stroll in picturesque Llangollen, host to one of the world’s most colorful annual music festivals, before continuing on to Liverpool, hometown of The Beatles and once the departure port of great transatlantic liners.
204 mi / 335 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Explore the charming medieval town of Ludlow on the River Teme. Noteworthy buildings include Ludlow Castle and the impressive St. Laurence’s church. With nearly 500 buildings on the Historic England list, Ludlow’s medieval and Tudor-style half-timbered architecture inspired pt laureate Sir John Betjeman to call it "the loveliest town in England."

(B)

Day 5 - LIVERPOOL–GRASMERE–GRETNA GREEN, SCOTLAND–EDINBURGH

Sonnets, Sweets & Scottish Blacksmiths
Find tranquility in the Lake District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and experience the inspiring setting of the pt Wordsworth’s beloved Grasmere. Sample [LF] original Grasmere Gingerbread before heading north for the Scottish border to Gretna Green where a Scottish blacksmith once performed weddings for eloping young couples. Continue onto Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh, for some free time this evening.
237 mi / 390 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
TIMELESS TRADITIONS Sweeten the day with classic gingerbread in Grasmere baked following an 1854 recipe invented by Sarah Nelson, the Victorian cook who invented the world famous cross between cake and biscuit.

(B)

Day 6 - EDINBURGH

Crown Jewels & Castle Views
Morning city sightseeing with a Local Guide introduces you to the 200-year-old “New Town,” and the famous scientists, inventors, and novelists who lived there. In the “Old Town,” visit Edinburgh Castle to admire Scotland’s Crown Jewels. Enjoy some free time this afternoon and evening.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
THE ROYAL EDINBURGH MILITARY TATTOO Unpack your plaid! Edinburgh Military Tattoo performances included on departures August 3, 10, 17 and 24.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
MUSIC & MASTERPIECES Ascend to Castle Rock to explore Edinburgh Castle, one of the most important historical strongholds in the Kingdom of Scotland, with an 1,100-year history as "the most besieged place in Great Britain". Here, you’ll find the royal regalia and Scotland’s Crown Jewels. The Castle forms the background of the spectacular Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, an extravaganza of bagpipes and drums performed en masse in August each year.

(B)

Day 7 - EDINBURGH–ABBOTSFORD–JEDBURGH–YORK, ENGLAND

Augustine’s Monks & Medieval Markets
Begin your day with a guided tour of Sir Walter Scott’s Abbotsford House, with its impressive collection of historic relics, weapons, and armor, as well as an extensive library with over 9,000 rare volumes. Make a photo stop at the ruined Augustinian Jedburgh Abbey as you head towards the Scottish border. In York, England’s most complete medieval city, view York Minster, [LF] then follow your Tour Director through a maze of quaint streets, including the Narrow Shambles.
202 mi / 325 km

LOCAL FAVORITE
HISTORIC SPOT While strolling the cobblestones of York’s Shambles, it’s easy to imagine the medieval butcher shops and boisterous crowds bartering for beef and bones outside the 14th-century timber-framed windows. The Shambles is one of the best-preserved medieval shopping streets in Europe, said to have been the inspiration behind Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley, and today is a vibrant gathering place with cheerful cafés and quirky boutiques brimming with the sweet aromas of chocolate, pastries, and pies.

(B,D)

Day 8 - YORK–STRATFORD-UPON-AVON–LONDON

Mr. & Mrs. Shakespeare
Depart Yorkshire, setting of author James Herriot’s beloved “All Creatures Great and Small,” and head to Shakespeare’s hometown of Stratford-upon-Avon. Take pictures of Anne Hathaway’s Cottage and visit the legendary playwright's birthplace. Return to London around 3:30 pm.
256 mi / 411 km

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGEND SLEPT HERE Ah, young love! Even more true, as Shakespeare’s fiancée was eight years his senior. See Anne Hathaway's Cottage, the family home where the bard’s wife-to-be was born and courted by young Will. Built more than 500 years ago, much of the original structure remains. Visit Shakespeare’s Birthplace and family home in the heart of Stratford-upon-Avon. Hear tales about his family life, marriage, and children with a close look at fascinating artifacts in a world-class collection assembled by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust.

(B)

Day 9 - LONDON–PARIS, FRANCE (EMBARKATION)

On to Paris!

Transfer to Paris to board your Avalon Suite Ship®.

This evening, enjoy dinner on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON

(B,D)

Day 10 - VERNON

Monet’s Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du Jour

Start the day with a Morning Stretch with your Avalon Adventure Host.

ACTIVE Explore Vernon's Chateau des Tourelles by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet’s charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces, OR:

CLASSIC Join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—called “Normandy’s Versailles” for its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables.

DISCOVERY While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration.

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

Serenity on the Seine

ACTIVE Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France’s most picturesque spots on the Seine.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC

(B,L,D)

Day 11 - CAUDEBEC

Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine

ACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided Trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route—where more than 100 medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys and churches were built along the Seine.

This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the old seaside town of Honfleur.

DISCOVERY Enjoy an Onboard Lecture about the days before and after the Normandy landing of D-Day.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC

(B,L,D)

Day 12 - CAUDEBEC. EXCURSION TO NORMANDY

Heroic Bravery on Normandy Beaches and French Farming Traditions

CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of Normandy’s WWII landing beaches, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR:

CLASSIC Take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR:

CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour to get a taste of authentic tradition in the beautiful region of Normandy. Toast the day with a brandy tasting in Calvados.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

EVENING CRUISE TO ROUEN

(B,L,D)

Day 13 - ROUEN

The Cathedral of Notre-Dame and a Heroine for France

ACTIVE Take a Guided Bike Tour to discover and explore the most famous monuments and the lesser known hidden gems of Rouen on two wheels, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—site of Joan of Arc’s martyrdom-and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CONFLANS

(B,L,D)

Day 14 - CONFLANS

The Footsteps of Van Gogh, Bonaparte, and Louis XIV

ACTIVE Enjoy a relaxing bike ride along the Seine with your Adventure Host, OR:

CLASSIC Join a Guided Visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, home and resting place of Vincent van Gogh, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison*—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine.

Perhaps, join a Guided Optional Excursion to the Palace of Versailles—home to a succession of French kings.

This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

AFTERNOON/EVENING CRUISE TO PARIS

(B,L,D)

*Château de Malmaison is closed the 1st Sunday of each month. On these dates, this excursion will be replaced by a visit to Château de Chantilly

Day 15 - PARIS

Cafés, Cathedrals, & Canvases in the City of Lights

ACTIVE Experience the Seine river by foot with your Adventure Host, OR:

CLASSIC Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR:

CLASSIC Join a Guided City Tour featuring the iconic sites of Paris, which make the City of Light the most romantic and remarkable city in the world.

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)

Day 16 - PARIS (DISEMBARKATION)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

(B)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I choose this tour?

This tour offers a unique and comprehensive combination of a guided land exploration of Britain and a premium French river cruise. You will experience the best of England and Scotland—from the historic streets of London and Edinburgh to the charm of the Lake District—before transitioning to a luxurious Avalon Suite Ship for a scenic voyage along the Seine River from Paris to Normandy.

What type of traveller is this tour designed for, what type of traveller will enjoy this tour most?

This tour is designed for travelers who appreciate a blend of history, art, and luxury. It is ideal for those who enjoy diverse experiences, such as visiting WWII landing beaches, exploring the birthplaces of literary legends like Shakespeare, and enjoying the fine wine and cheese of the French countryside while sailing in comfort.

What are the pros and cons of this tour?

The pros include a rich, multi-country itinerary with high-end accommodations on an Avalon Suite Ship featuring Panorama Suites and a wide variety of activity choices (Active, Classic, and Discovery). A potential con is that some portions of the tour, specifically at Edinburgh Castle, involve uphill walking on rough terrain which may be challenging for some guests.

Is this a good option for solo travellers, couples, or families?

This tour is a wonderful option for couples and solo travelers looking for a premium, guided experience. While the text does not explicitly mention family-specific amenities, the diverse range of activities and the romantic settings of Paris and the Seine River make it an appealing choice for various adult travel pairings.

Is this tour better for first-time visitors or experienced travellers?

This tour is excellent for both first-time and experienced travelers. First-timers will love the inclusion of iconic landmarks like Big Ben and the Louvre, while experienced travelers will appreciate the deeper dives into regional gems like the Normandy Abbeys Route and the quaint town of Auvers-sur-Oise.

Is this suitable for people with mobility concerns?

While the overall physicality is rated as Easy to Moderate, there are some concerns for those with limited mobility. Specifically, Edinburgh Castle requires uphill walking on rough terrain, which may be difficult for guests reliant on wheelchairs or other mobility devices.

Is this tour more focused on sightseeing, culture, or adventure?

This tour provides a balanced focus on all three. It offers extensive sightseeing of world-famous landmarks, deep cultural immersion through visits to museums, historic abbeys, and artist homes, and light adventure through guided hikes and bike rides led by an Avalon Adventure Host.

What is the pace of this tour (fast-paced vs relaxed)?

The tour maintains a moderate pace. The first half involves several city-to-city transfers across Britain to cover a wide area, while the second half transitions into a more relaxed river cruise experience where the scenery comes to you.

Does the itinerary feel rushed or relaxed?

The itinerary is thoughtfully structured to be comprehensive yet enjoyable. While the land portion covers many cities in a short time, the cruise portion allows for a more relaxed atmosphere with onboard lectures, leisurely sailing, and flexible excursion choices.

Are key highlights and landmarks included?

Yes, the tour includes many essential highlights. In Britain, you will see Big Ben, Stonehenge, the Roman Baths, and Edinburgh Castle. In France, you will explore the heart of Paris, the Normandy Landing Beaches, and the gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny.

Are language barriers handled by the guide?

Yes, the tour provides professional guidance to ensure a smooth experience. You will be accompanied by Globus Hosts, a Tour Director, and Local Guides in cities like London and Edinburgh, as well as an Avalon Adventure Host during the cruise portion.

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