Highlights of Normandy & the Seine with Majestic Britain & Ireland: 28 days Dublin to Paris

Start your journey in the heart of Dublin, Ireland’s vibrant capital, with a two- night Scenic Special Stay. Set on the banks of the River Liffey, Dublin was founded by the Vikings who named the city Dubh Linn, which means ‘Black Pool’ after the tidal pool that formed where the River Poddle met the Liffey. The city is magnificent with Georgian architecture, grand squares and historic monuments, and is steeped in culture and oozes charisma with a touch of hedonism.

This morning your local guide will help you discover the history and charm of Dublin on a walking tour. See The Mansion House, the official residence of Dublin’s Lord Mayor, Dublin Castle, which was constructed in the 13th century on the site of a Viking settlement, and the old Post Office, the heart of Dublin’s history and culture for more than 800 years. You will also see 19th century Fitzwilliam Square, St. Stephen’s Green Park, the Molly Malone statue, the Old Parliament House and City Hall.  

Scenic Freechoice:
Guinness Storehouse: Visit the Guinness Storehouse and factory to learn how this famous brew is made. After your guided tour, learn how to pull the perfect pint and enjoy a tasting from the Gravity Bar on the seventh floor, which has a spectacular vantage point overlooking the city of Dublin.

Tour of Kilmainham Gaol: Journey through some of Ireland’s most fascinating history at Kilmainham Gaol Museum. Your local guide will regale you with tales from the gaol’s nearly 200-year history, including those who were held here while fighting for Irish independence.

Tonight, enjoy dinner and a show in a local restaurant with traditional Irish songs, music and dancing. 

Today, you’ll visit the 600-year-old Blarney Castle. Explore the historic location and see the legendary ‘Stone of Eloquence’, more commonly known as the Blarney Stone. Legend says if you kiss it, you will receive the ‘gift of the gab’. Over the years, famous people such as Sir Winston Churchill, Ronald Reagan and Mick Jagger have puckered up to the ancient stone.

Afterwards, continue to Killarney, a charming town nestled in a valley surrounded by Ireland’s highest mountain range, the McGillycuddy’s Reeks.

Today you will experience the breathtaking scenery of the Ring of Kerry, renowned as one of the most picturesque landscapes in Ireland. Here, the Iveragh Mountains dramatically drop into the Atlantic Ocean, where rolling green hills dotted with cows and sheep are punctuated by sparkling lakes, grand houses and ancient castles. Watch as tiny fishing villages and off shore islands come in and out of view as you wind along this 100-kilometre route, which will captivate you at every bend.

Today, you will drive along the spectacular Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher, a wind-whipped geological wonder that stretches for eight kilometres and soars to 214 metres above the crashing sea below.

Arrive in the vibrant city of Galway. The only city along the entire 2,500-kilometre Wild Atlantic Way, Galway is a remote, bohemian city that is rich in creative culture.

This morning, take a walking tour of Galway. Known as the ‘City of Tribes’ thanks to the 14 powerful merchant families who ruled it for centuries, you’ll see how the city blends its 13th century mercantile past with a lively modern vibe driven by students. Your local guide will walk you through the atmospheric lanes of the Latin Quarter, past Lynch’s Castle, Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church and the remnants of the old city walls.

Make your way north, stopping enroute to visit the Monastery of Clonmacnoise. Dating to the 6th century, the relics offer a rare insight into life in this period. The site includes the remnants of a cathedral and one of the largest collections of early Christian graves.

Continue to Donegal located in Ireland’s wild, northwest corner. Geographically closer to Iceland than to Cork, it is the site of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, where the Atlantic Ocean crashes dramatically onto empty beaches and mountain roads wind through breathtaking, untouched landscapes.

Set out on an excursion to the Giant’s Causeway, where you can walk across a surreal carpet of more than 40,000 interlocking basalt columns that step down into the Atlantic Ocean. A World Heritage Site shaped by volcanic forces millions of years ago – and by legends of the giant Finn McCool – it combines raw geology with myth, dramatic scenery, and crashing waves.

Today, cross the Irish Sea by ferry to Scotland, where you will travel to Loch Lomond. One of Scotland’s best-known lakes (loch means lake in Scottish Gaelic), it’s the largest in Great Britain by surface area. This evening, check into your hotel for a two-night stay in Loch Lomond.

Enjoy a relaxed morning today. You may like to explore the facilities of the hotel or take a stroll along the shores of the loch.

Loch Lomond may be known for its breathtaking waterway, but Stirling Castle is one of the region’s most iconic sites. Home to multiple generations of Scottish royalty, including the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, the ancient chambers of this castle possesses a rich and storied history. You will see the Great Hall, the largest medieval banqueting hall ever built in Scotland, and the elaborate Royal Chapel.

After the castle tour, travel by coach to Glasgow for a short orientation tour followed by dinner at a local restaurant.

Scottish whisky is famous around the world and has been produced in the Highlands for more than 500 years. This morning, visit a local distillery to see the production process and sample some of this legendary ‘water of life’.

Later, journey to Loch Ness, a corner of the Scottish Highlands that is known for its dramatic scenery and the fabled Loch Ness monster. Keep an eye out for this elusive creature, also known as ‘Nessie’, a large prehistoric reptile believed to be living in the loch. There have been thousands of alleged sightings since the 1930s, including a number of blurry photographs, though there is no scientific evidence that Nessie exists. Nonetheless, the great folklore of the Loch Ness continues to draw in visitors far and wide.

Tonight, you’ll enjoy the first of a two-night stay in Inverness.

Known as the capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness sits where the River Ness meets the Moray Firth, an inlet of the North Sea.

Today discover the history of the highlands including a visit to the Battle of Culloden Visitors Centre, where you will learn about the 1745 Jacobite rising and hear tales of the battle that is often described as one of the most brutal in Scottish history.

This morning you will depart the Highlands bound for Edinburgh via Scone Palace. The palace is the seat of parliaments and the crowning place of Scottish kings, and the capital of the Pict Kingdom. Their name is thought to mean ‘the painted ones’, and there is suggestion that they decorated themselves with tattoos and dyed their skin blue. 

Scenic Enrich
Falconry Display: In the palace grounds you will be treated to a delicious morning tea accompanied by an impressive demonstration of Falconry. Known as the 'Sport of Kings' this ancient art has a history that dates back almost 4,000 years.

Afterwards, continue to Edinburgh. One of the most architecturally beautiful cities in the world, Edinburgh has been Scotland’s capital since the 15th century. Check in to your hotel for a two-night stay.

Explore Edinburgh’s ancient, cobbled streets and well-preserved medieval and classical architecture today during a guided tour. This historic city was founded upon volcanic Castle Rock, where Edinburgh Castle – one of the oldest fortified castles in Europe – sits today. You will visit this impressive estate, as well as Royal Yacht Britannia, the former royal yacht of Queen Elizabeth II.

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps, wander down the city’s Royal Mile, which is buzzing with stores, cafes, bars, and often street performers. This road connects the two royal residences, stretching from Holyrood Palace to Edinburgh Castle.

This morning you’ll depart Edinburgh on a picturesque drive to Alnwick Castle. There, you’ll discover an incredible history that dates back over 950 years to the Norman period. Learn about the family that has resided in the castle for over 700 years and hear about the movies that have used Alnwick as a filming location, including Harry Potter and Downton Abbey.

Arrive in York this afternoon. This fascinating medieval city is nestled within ancient city walls and has Roman and Viking roots. Check in for a two-night hotel stay.

This morning you will meet a local guide who will escort you through this delightful city, taking in all the Roman and Viking heritage that is on offer. Walk along The Shambles, the narrow medieval street lined with half-timbered houses and traditional shop fronts, and see the impressive York Minster, said to be one of the most beautiful Gothic churches in the world.

This afternoon is at leisure, with free time to explore the city on your own.

Enroute to the Roman city of Bath, you will stop in the charming town of Stratford-upon-Avon, the birthplace of William Shakespeare. Enjoy an orientation tour to see where the famous Bard was born, learn about his life and see his final resting place.

This afternoon you’ll arrive in Bath and check into your hotel. The city of Bath has been a spa town since Roman times thanks to the mineral waters with restorative properties that bubble beneath its surface. It was also the home of Jane Austen and was frequented by Charles Dickens.

Discover beautiful Bath on a guided walking tour. The UK’s only World Heritage-listed city, the town is resplendent with honey-coloured Georgian architecture, stately Palladian townhouses and the renowned Roman Baths, constructed in 70AD.

Later, indulge in the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea, a delightful experience of freshly brewed tea, delicate finger sandwiches, and an array of elegant pastries and cakes.

Enjoy some free time explore the city at your own pace. Perhaps you would like to pack your swimsuit and make your way to the contemporary Thermae Bath Spa to experience the therapeutic waters that make this city world famous or climb the 212 steps to the top of Abbey Tower for a panoramic view over the ancient city and surrounding countryside.

On your way to London, you’ll discover the mystical wonders of Stonehenge. It is estimated that this World Heritage site is around 5,000 years old and it’s considered the most architecturally sophisticated stone circle in the world. Walk around the stones, see the Neolithic villages and learn more at the exhibition.

Afterwards, you’ll make a short stop in Salisbury for an orientation tour, before continuing on to the English capital, London, for a two-night stay. The city features some of the most recognisable historic landmarks in the world, including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. Among London’s 2,000-year history, you’ll find bustling pubs, the West End theatre district and the glorious River Thames at its heart.

Today, explore London with a local guide, seeing highlights such as Trafalgar Square and Buckingham Palace, the King’s official London residence. You’ll also visit Westminster Abbey. With more than 1,000 years of history, the abbey has been the site of countless royal weddings, coronations and state ceremonies.

This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps take a cruise along the River Thames, visit one of the city’s art galleries or step inside the Tower of London, home to the Crown Jewels.

London is famous for its pubs, so tonight enjoy dinner in a modern upscale pub near your hotel.

Board your included fight to Paris. Whether it’s your first or fiftieth time to this romantic city, there is always something new to discover. Your journey will also culminate in Paris where you’ll have the opportunity to experience this magnificent city a little more. Board your 5-star Scenic Gem and set off on a cruise you will treasure forever.

Wake this morning in Conflans-Saint Honorine, a medieval town located at the confluence of the rivers Seine and Oise. Though it’s just a short distance from the centre of the city, it feels a world away. A castle was built here by monks in the 9th century to protect the relics of Saint Honorine, from whom the town gets its name. It became a popular pilgrimage site in the 11th century, a practice which lasted for more than 700 years. Wander the quiet streets and the riverside pathway, sip coffee at an open-air cafe, and admire the beautiful ancient church.

Scenic Freechoice:
Today, choose one of our Scenic Freechoice activities:

Visit to Auvers-Sur-Oise: Travel to the village where Vincent van Gogh painted his final masterpieces. See landmarks that were immortalised in his works, such as the famous Notre Dame de l'Assomption church. The tour includes entry to Van Gogh’s room, an attic that he rented during his final months, and which has sat empty since 1890. Enjoy free time afterwards to wander through the village.

Chantilly Castle and gardens: Take a guided tour of the castle, a magnificent tribute to France’s cultural heritage, built by Henri D'Orleans, the son of the last King of France. See the fine collections he amassed in his lifetime, explore the gardens and enjoy some free time. (Please note: Chantilly Castle is closed on a Tuesday, and will be replaced with a visit to Versailles Palace and Garden instead).

Active walk with Musée de la Batellerie: Join this active tour in Conflans-Sainte-Honorine to visit to Musée de la Batellerie, the Inland Water Transport Museum. Conflans, sometimes called the barge capital of the world, is located on the confluence of Oise and Seine rivers, and water has played a very important role in the lives of its residents.

Normandy’s capital, Rouen, has a history that spans over 2000 years, from Viking legends to its significant role in both world wars. It was also the place where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. Much of Rouen was sadly destroyed in World War II, however the city has been faithfully restored, including the exquisite Old Town. It’s an engaging and historically rich destination, packed with museums, stylish bistros and coffee shops, and a wealth of churches, including the famed 12th century Rouen Cathedral.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Rouen city tour: See why Victor Hugo once described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ on this guided tour. Visit the cathedral district, old marketplace, and Saint Maclou Quarter. Step into a fairytale of medieval alleys and half-timbered houses. Learn about Joan of Arc and see where the young heroine was put to death in 1431. Enjoy free time afterwards.

Guided tour of Rouen with ‘Rollo the Viking’: Authentically dressed as the Viking warlord Rollo the Walker – who was famously too tall to ride a horse – your guide will take you around the city to learn about the Viking raiders who made Rouen their capital. This tour focuses on the city’s medieval past and before some free time afterwards to explore.

In the footsteps of Joan of Arc: Discover the gripping and heroic story of Joan of Arc on a captivating walking tour through Rouen. Immerse yourself in the dramatic narrative of this young heroine from the magnificent but haunting St. Ouen Church, a silent witness to her faith and trials, to the evocative Old Market Square, the site of her fiery martyrdom.

Back on board this evening, history comes alive with an engaging lecture about Operation Fortitude and the daily life of Honfleur’s citizens during the D-Day campaign in World War II.

Honfleur is a colourful port city on the edge of the English Channel. The specially designed Scenic Gem is able to cruise even further into this harbour that is renowned as one of Europe’s most picturesque, allowing you shorter transfers to today's Scenic Freechoice excursions. Over the years the town has captured the imaginations of countless artists and was the birthplace of Impressionism. The bustling harbour and cobbled streets are a confection of half-timbered houses, restaurants, gourmet shops and art galleries. It’s an easy walk from the ship to explore the harbour area and network of laneways beyond.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of today’s excursions:

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including Omaha Beach (US history focused): Start at the memorial on Utah Beach, where more than 20,000 US troops landed on June 6, 1944, before a visit to Sainte-Mère-Église, the town where 30 US Paratroopers landed during the Normandy Invasion. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the Normandy American Cemetery and Visitor Centre before a short stop at the Omaha Beach Memorial. Omaha Beach is often referred to as ‘Bloody Omaha’, as it resulted in the most casualties during the operation, where 2,400 tragically passed.

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches including British Normandy Memorial (UK history focused): The small town of Bayeux was the first town to be liberated after the D-Day Landings and became the French capital for the summer of 1944, until the liberation of Paris. Visit the Bayeux War Cemetery and the Museum of the Battle of Normandy, which describes the chronological events of D-Day in detail. Then explore the state-of-the-art Landing Museum at Arromanches, located across the artificial harbour that was built to dispatch reinforcements. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit the British Normandy Memorial, the Pegasus Bridge & Museum, site of an important battle, and stop at the Ranville War Cemetery.

Excursion to the Normandy Beaches Including Juno Beach Centre (Canadian history focused): Begin at Abbey d’Ardenne, which was founded in the 11th century and is now a memorial to the Canadian Prisoners of War from the D-Day landings. Next you will head to Juno Beach Centre, a memorial to where 20,000 Canadian troops landed. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Bény-sur-Mer Canadian cemetery where the 335 Canadian men who were killed in the D-Day Landings and the early stages of the campaign are buried. You’ll also visit Pegasus Bridge & Museum, site of an important battle.

Walking tour of Honfleur: A guided walking tour of the city will show you its charming Inner Harbour, the Church of Sainte-Catherine and the Garden of Personalities, before you can explore on your own with some free time.

Arrive in the small town of Caudebec-en-Caux early this morning. Set on a curve of the Seine, the riverfront is lined with handsome homes, stately gardens and crumbling stone walls. Caudebec-en-Caux dates back to the Middle Ages and a handful of historic buildings survived the bombardments of WWII, including the ornate 15th century Notre Dame Caudebec-en-Caux.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore more of the region on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Fecamp and Benedictine Palace: Take a coach transfer to Fecamp, an historic seaside town surrounded by some of the tallest cliffs in Normandy. Join a guided tour of the Benedictine Palace, a 19th century architectural masterpiece, famous for producing Benedictine liquor, said to contain 27 plants and spices. Enjoy a tasting during your visit.

Normandy Abbey Road: Spiritual health and wealth have been important in Normandy since the Middle Ages. Explore this fascinating history with a local guide on the Abbey Road, where many grand abbeys sit on the banks of the River Seine.

Cycle to Villequier with Victor Hugo Museum: Enjoy an active biking tour to the charming village of Villequier, cycling on an e-bike along the banks of the River Seine, following a picturesque flat eight-kilometre each way route. Visit the museum dedicated to Victor Hugo, the famous French poet, playwright and novelist before returning to the ship.

Lillebonne tour: On this walking you will discover the secret Roman history of Normandy as told by one of Caesar's very own Roman legionaries in full armour and costume. Follow in the footsteps of Caesar himself and enter the largest Roman amphitheatre in northern Europe where over 10,000 spectators watched gladiators fight to the death.

Historically a border town between the Duchy of Normandy and the Kingdom of France, Vernon has a rich heritage and many distinctive buildings. Nearby Giverny was the home of Impressionist artist Claude Monet for more than 40 years.

Scenic Freechoice:
Today uncover the region your way with your choice of Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Monet's House and Garden: Journey to Giverny to tour the town and visit the home of the founder of Impressionism. Built by Monet, the gardens comprise a Japanese-inspired water garden with lilies, which inspired his most famous works. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at your own leisure.

Self-guided cycle from Vernon to Giverny: Take a self-guided e-bike tour in Vernon to Giverny (approximately five kilometres each way). When you arrive, you may wish to visit Monet’s House and Garden or wander about this charming town, before returning to the ship.

This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise towards La Roche-Guyon, where this evening’s exclusive Scenic Enrich experience will take place.

Scenic Enrich
Chateau de La Roche Guyon: Take a short walk from the ship to Château La Roche-Guyon, which is built into a chalk hillside and dates to the 16th century. Walk through the manicured orchard and vegetable gardens, then admire the decorative walls, ceilings and tapestries. On arrival you’ll enjoy a drink and sit for a splendid classical concert that focuses on music by French composers.

Welcome back to Paris, where you will spend this afternoon uncovering this iconic city. First timers may prefer the highlights tour, which allows you to visit renowned sites such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, while those rediscovering Paris may wish to explore the trendy Marais District or venture just south of Paris and explore Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from these Scenic Freechoice options:

Trendy Marais with a local Parisian: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the Marais district with a Parisian guide. A melting pot of cultures, fascinating history, opulent architecture, an eclectic arts scene and high-end fashion, Marais is one of the most diverse districts in Paris.

Highlights of Paris city tour: Join a local guide on a coach tour of the city to see some of its most famous sites, from the Eiffel Tower to the , the Arc de Triomphe and Concorde Square. You will also view the 1163-built Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral, which recently reopened after a devastating fire in 2019.

Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte: Take a coach to the Champs-Élysées Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, located an hour’s drive from Paris. This château is credited as the founding French formal garden that was the inspiration for Versailles. The property is laid out in a typical symmetrical fashion with its stunning manicured hedges creating a theatrical setting.

You will remain docked in Paris overnight, giving you a chance to soak up the atmosphere of the ‘City of Light’ and explore the glistening lights after dark.

Your journey concludes this morning. Disembark after breakfast, taking with you many wonderful memories of this memorable part of France. Transfer to Paris airport or train station for your onward journey.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.