May 19 - Jun 2, 2025
France
The Seine: D-Day Beaches to Paris
Program No. 12416RJ
Gain a deeper understanding of the significant events of World War II, learning about the beaches of Normandy and historic sites of occupied Paris on expert-led excursions.
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800-454-5768
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Sep 22 - Oct 6, 2025
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15 days
14 nights
35 meals
13B 11L 11D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
3
Transfer to Caen or Bayeux or Port en Bessin
Port en Bessin
4
Free Time, Normandy Country Cuisine, Mont-Saint-Michel
Port en Bessin
6
Omaha Beach, American Cemetery, Pointe du Hoc
Port en Bessin
7
Hedgerows & Saint-Lô, Sainte-Mère-Église, Utah Beach
Port en Bessin
8
Caen Memorial, Honfleur
Honfleur
9
Honfleur, Eugène Boudin Museum
Honfleur
12
Giverny, Monet Lecture
Vernon
At a Glance
Trace the events of history’s largest invasion on June 6, 1944, from Normandy’s beaches to the liberation of Paris. At charming ports of call, local experts discuss life along the Seine River ranging from medieval history to Impressionist art.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Extensive walking along unpaved lanes and cobblestone streets; some stairs without railings and/or uneven ground. Participants should be able to stand for at least one hour.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Enjoy riverboat views of the Seine and surrounding countryside.
- Delve into the events of D-Day with experts at Sainte-Mère-Église and at Utah and Omaha Beaches.
- Explore the historic sites of Paris’ World War II occupation and learn about its final liberation in August 1944.
General Notes
Departures operate on different ships, so please see the daily schedule for specific details. Please note that during these programs, Road Scholar will operate smaller groups each with their own Group Leader for shore excursions. The small groups may occasionally come together for lectures. Current Events in Paris: Due to the fire at Notre Dame, the cathedral is closed to visitors. Road Scholar programs that visit Île de la Cité will be able to see the outside of the cathedral, but we will not be able to go inside.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Bill Snowden
Bill Snowden was a geography master at Harrow school, a boy's boarding school that counts Lord Byron and Winston Churchill among its former pupils. In 2014, he retired from teaching to devote more of his time to travel and leading travel adventurers. Since 1984, Bill has worked during spring and summer breaks as a group leader. He is fluent in French and Spanish, providing him the opportunity to lead educational travel programs across Europe, most notably in France and Spain.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Bill Snowden
View biography
Bill Snowden was a geography master at Harrow school, a boy's boarding school that counts Lord Byron and Winston Churchill among its former pupils. In 2014, he retired from teaching to devote more of his time to travel and leading travel adventurers. Since 1984, Bill has worked during spring and summer breaks as a group leader. He is fluent in French and Spanish, providing him the opportunity to lead educational travel programs across Europe, most notably in France and Spain.
Olivier Horslaville
View biography
Olivier Horslaville is a Normandy native and is dedicated to preserving the region's fascinating heritage. Surrounded by nature, history and culture, he was continuously inspired by his homeland and went on to study art and archaeology at the esteemed Ecole du Louvre in Paris. After receiving his degree, Olivier returned to Normandy and spends his time working with local heritage associations.
Suggested Reading List
(19 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Seine: D-Day Beaches to Paris
Program Number: 12416
A Traveller's History of Paris
A fast-moving, short survey of French history with a focus on Paris from its foundation, through the heady days of revolution and up to modern times.
The Secret Life of the Seine
After losing his Paris apartment, Rosenblum, a born storyteller, takes to a houseboat moored on the Seine. The result is this entertaining tour of the places and people he encounters during his explorations along the river.
My Life in France
The touching and famous story of Julia Child in France, where she learned to cook and fell in love with French cuisine, all in her own words.
Omaha Beach: D-Day, June 6, 1944
In this unforgettable narrative of D-Day, Joseph Balkoski describes the minute-by-minute combat as it unfolded on Omaha Beach, allowing soldiers to speak for themselves as they recall their attempts to maneuver bombers through heavy cloud cover, the claustrophobic terror aboard transports, and the relentless fire that greeted them on the beach
The Flaneur: A Stroll through the Paradoxes of Paris
A 'flaneur' is a stroller, a loiterer, someone who ambles through city streets in search of adventure and fulfillment. Edmund White, who lived in Paris for sixteen years, wanders through the streets and avenues and along the quays, into parts of Paris virtually unknown to visitors and indeed to many Parisians.
1066, The Year of the Conquest
A crack medievalist and storyteller, Howarth brings to life the momentous events of 1066 in rich, anecdotal history -- a classic portrait of the Norman invasion and conquest of England.
The Most Beautiful Walk in the World: A Pedestrian in Paris
Australian critic and writer Baxter draws on his second career as a literary tour guide in his adopted city for this witty memoir, laced with terrific tales.
The New Paris
Move past the clichés and learn about what makes up Paris today. Explore the open-minded sensibility, diverse populations, and hidden corners of The New Paris.
F is for France: A Curious Cabinet of French Wonders
An alphabetized catalogue of quirky French culture and history tidbits.
Murder in the Marais
Literate and thrilling, with a strong sense of the geography and flavor of Paris, the first in a series of mysteries starring Aimee Ledoc shows off the French-American detective's wit and wile. The series continues with Murder in Belleville (FRN562), Murder in the Sentier (FRN563) and many more.
Markets of Paris
An in-depth guide to the best markets in Paris. Dive into the heart of French culture and navigate the markets like a local with maps, tips, and handy phrases.
How Paris Became Paris: The Invention of the Modern City
A captivating history of the growth, design, and planning of Paris, telling the story of how the modern city came to be.
Paris Noir: African Americans in the City of Light
A history of black Americans who settled in Paris, France, from 1900 to the present.
The Hotel Majestic
The most famous fictional detective in France, Maigret, tackles a case in the heart of Paris.
A Moveable Feast
A treasure for anyone interested in Parisian cafe society and its luminaries circa 1925. Hemingway includes sharp portraits of Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ford Maddox Ford and others who idled on their way to greatness.
The Food & Wine of France: Eating & Drinking from Champagne to Provence
Behr seeks out the best of French food, in encounters from Champagne to Provence, to tell the stories of French artisans and chefs who work at the highest level. He shares what he learns from these experts on French traditions and how to best enjoy this food.
Lonely Planet French Phrasebook
This handy phrasebook focuses on pronunciation, basic grammar and essential vocabulary for the traveler.
Paris Pratique Par Arrondissement
This pocket atlas contains detailed maps of every neighborhood in Paris, as well as details about bus and metro stops.
From Beachhead to Brittany: The 29th Infantry Division at Brest, August-September 1944
Historian Joseph Balkoski follows the U.S. 29th Infantry Division out of Normandy and into Brittany in the northwest corner of France, where the division was tasked with seizing the port of Brest.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
15 days
Program Begins
Paris
Program Concludes
Paris
Meals
35
| 13B |
11L |
11D |
Activity Level
Trace the events of history’s largest invasion on June 6, 1944, from Normandy’s beaches to the liberation of Paris. At charming ports of call, local experts discuss life along the Seine River ranging from medieval history to Impressionist art.)
Best of all, you'll...
- Enjoy riverboat views of the Seine and surrounding countryside.
- Delve into the events of D-Day with experts at Sainte-Mère-Église and at Utah and Omaha Beaches.
- Explore the historic sites of Paris’ World War II occupation and learn about its final liberation in August 1944.
General Notes
Departures operate on different ships, so please see the daily schedule for specific details. Please note that during these programs, Road Scholar will operate smaller groups each with their own Group Leader for shore excursions. The small groups may occasionally come together for lectures. Current Events in Paris: Due to the fire at Notre Dame, the cathedral is closed to visitors. Road Scholar programs that visit Île de la Cité will be able to see the outside of the cathedral, but we will not be able to go inside.
Featured Expert
Bill Snowden
Bill Snowden was a geography master at Harrow school, a boy's boarding school that counts Lord Byron and Winston Churchill among its former pupils. In 2014, he retired from teaching to devote more of his time to travel and leading travel adventurers. Since 1984, Bill has worked during spring and summer breaks as a group leader. He is fluent in French and Spanish, providing him the opportunity to lead educational travel programs across Europe, most notably in France and Spain.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Olivier Horslaville
Olivier Horslaville is a Normandy native and is dedicated to preserving the region's fascinating heritage. Surrounded by nature, history and culture, he was continuously inspired by his homeland and went on to study art and archaeology at the esteemed Ecole du Louvre in Paris. After receiving his degree, Olivier returned to Normandy and spends his time working with local heritage associations.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Extensive walking along unpaved lanes and cobblestone streets; some stairs without railings and/or uneven ground. Participants should be able to stand for at least one hour.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List
(19 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call
800-454-5768
All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
15 days
14 nights
What's Included
35 meals | 13B | 11L | 11D |
3 expert-led lectures
19 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
13 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Activity Note
IMPORTANT: The large group will be split into smaller groups of approximately 25/30 participants. In order to ensure you will be placed in the same small group as your traveling companions, please make sure to include their names on your Participant Information Form.
Day
2
Arrival Paris, Check-in, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Paris
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel Oceania Paris Roissy CDG
Activity Note
Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This is a Chartered Exclusively for Road Scholar Adventures Afloat program. Port stops and field trips are subject to change as weather and river conditions could affect the progress of the vessel, making it run late and possibly miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The cruise itinerary should therefore be regarded as provisional. The time available in each port is set by the cruise line, which may mean free time in port is limited. The cruise line reserves the right change the itinerary without prior notice. When possible, the Road Scholar daily schedule indicates port arrival and departure times. Our knowledgeable Group Leader will also serve as our Study Leader, giving lectures and providing expert commentary throughout the program. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At a restaurant near the hotel. French restaurants take pride in creating a relaxed atmosphere where patrons expect to take their time, savor every bite, and set the pace of the meal, requesting “l’addition” — the check — only when they are ready. Meals are accompanied by complimentary “pain” (bread) and “eau” or “l’eau” (water), so you need not ask for them. When wine is offered, it is customary to fill your glass only half way so the wine can breathe and to be sure everyone has a share. Servers wait until everyone at the table has finished their dish before clearing and bringing the next course. To indicate that you have finished your meal, place your utensils together on the right hand side of your plate.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
3
Transfer to Caen or Bayeux or Port en Bessin
Location:
Port en Bessin
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Mercure Omaha Beach
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 172 miles, approximately 3 hours riding time. Due to ecological regulations in France, new motorcoaches do not have restrooms on board; older models have restrooms but they are not available for use. We will have rest stops along the way for rides more than 90 minutes at a time. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 1 hour at a time; cobblestone streets, uneven terrain in Bayeux.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will check out, board a motorcoach, and begin our ride to Bayeux.
Lunch:
At a restaurant en route.
Afternoon:
Afternoon We will check-in to the hotel. After settling in, we’ll meet our Group Leader and set out on a walking field trip in Caen. We’ll learn about the history of this city and orient ourselves.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Free Time, Normandy Country Cuisine, Mont-Saint-Michel
Location:
Port en Bessin
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Mercure Omaha Beach
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 170 miles, approximately 3.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 3 miles throughout the day, including from Mont Saint Michel parking lot to shuttle; standing up to 2 hours at a time; cobblestone and paved streets, unavoidable steep steps, inclined terrain; dark and narrow passages in the Abbey. Bring small flashlight if needed; a collapsible, rubber-tipped walking stick or cane may be useful for Mont–Saint-Michel.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration. Next, we will board a motorcoach and begin our ride to Mont-Saint-Michel.
Lunch:
At a farm-based restaurant en route to Mont-Saint-Michel, we will enjoy a farm-to-table meal featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
Afternoon:
We will continue our ride to the place the locals call “le Mont.” With its legendary origin — which its founder said was at the request of the Archangel Michael! — Mont-Saint-Michel is one of France’s best known and most strikingly beautiful landmarks. It is also a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site. From the UNESCO inscription: “Perched on a rocky islet in the midst of vast sandbanks exposed to powerful tides between Normandy and Brittany stand the ‘Wonder of the West,’ a Gothic-style Benedictine abbey dedicated to the archangel St Michael, and the village that grew up in the shadow of its great walls. Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, the abbey is a technical and artistic tour de force, having had to adapt to the problems posed by this unique natural site.” We will explore this historic landmark at our own pace, using a museum audio guide. We will then return to the hotel by motorcoach.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
5
Pegasus Bridge, British & Canadian Sectors, Bayeux Tapestry
Location:
Port en Bessin
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Mercure Omaha Beach
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 136 miles, approximately 4 hours riding time with stops. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours throughout the day; even and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will be joined by a World War II expert who will lead our field trip to some of the beaches involved in D-Day, the Allied invasion of Europe through Normandy. From Pegasus Bridge, we will move along the British and Canadian sectors. We will learn about the importance and creation of the Mulberry Harbors and the stubborn German battery at Longues sur Mer.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will set out with our Group Leader on a field trip to the Bayeux Museum, home of the world-renowned Bayeux Tapestry. During our self-directed exploration with museum-provided audio guides, we will be able to view and understand this masterpiece of 11th century Romanesque art. It is nearly 230 feet long and actually an embroidery that tells the story of William “the Conqueror” who was Duke of Normandy and his successful invasion of England in 1066. There are 58 detailed scenes, all hand-crafted. It is part of UNESCO’s “Memory of the World” registry.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Omaha Beach, American Cemetery, Pointe du Hoc
Location:
Port en Bessin
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Mercure Omaha Beach
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 170 miles throughout the day, approximately 4 hours total riding time. Walking up to 3 miles over the course of the day, standing up to 2 hours at a time; inclined, even and uneven ground.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board a motorcoach and set out on a field trip to the Omaha landing beach, site of the largest amphibious invasion in history. With a local expert, we’ll learn how the beachhead was taken at a cost of an estimated 4,414 lives of Allied soldiers, sailors, airmen, and coast guardsmen (National D-Day Memorial Foundation). We will see and discuss some of the gun positions that survive today. Our expert will speak to us about the American landing here from multiple perspectives. We will also pay our respects to fallen soldiers at the Normandy American Military Cemetery.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We will continue exploring with our expert at Pointe du Hoc, where we’ll learn how American Army Rangers took the heights under a hail of enemy fire. Next, we will have an opportunity with our Group Leader to sample the region’s renowned Calvados apple brandy and regional cheeses at the Château d’Englesqueville, where the first monument to honor American soldiers who fought here during World War II was built. We will ride back to the hotel after our field trips.
Dinner:
On your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
7
Hedgerows & Saint-Lô, Sainte-Mère-Église, Utah Beach
Location:
Port en Bessin
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Mercure Omaha Beach
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 280 miles throughout the day, approximately 5 hours total riding time. Walking up to 3 miles, standing up to 2 hours; inclined terrain, uneven ground.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will board a motorcoach and ride to Saint-Lô to explore the hedgerows that proved to be a uniquely difficult obstacle for American soldiers. We will learn from a World War II expert about the battles that took place among the hedgerows of Normandy after the Allies pushed inland from the beaches.
Lunch:
We will have meal vouchers known as “tickets restaurant” that can be used at restaurants, bakeries, brasseries, and cafés displaying a TR sticker on the window with messages such as this: “Nous acceptons les Tickets Restaurant.” Change is not given back if the meal cost is less than the value of the voucher. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Moving on, we will reach Sainte-Mère-Église and Utah Beach where a local expert will lead on-site discussions of the operations here. Sainte-Mère-Église was at the center of the U.S. paratrooper landings and is known for the soldier whose parachute caught on the church’s steeple, leaving him stranded overnight.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
8
Caen Memorial, Honfleur
Location:
Honfleur
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
CroisiEurope MS Renoir
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 40 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours at a time; cobblestone streets, uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will check-out of the hotel and we will leave our luggage on the motorcoach and set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader.We will have some independent time to explore Caen at our own pace. We’ll then board a motorcoach and ride to the Caen Memorial.
Lunch:
At the Caen Memorial.
Afternoon:
The Caen Memorial is a major museum dedicated to the history of the 20th century. During our self-directed exploration, we will examine the different galleries focusing on World War II, the Cold War, and peace. We will board a motorcoach for Honfleur after our field trip and have a welcome drink before dinner.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Information regarding activities aboard ship will be provided.
Day
9
Honfleur, Eugène Boudin Museum
Location:
Honfleur
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
CroisiEurope MS Renoir
Activity Note
Walking up to 2 miles throughout the day, standing up to 1 hour at a time; even and uneven ground.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will set out on a walking field trip with our Group Leader to see examples of unique architecture in this historic old city. We’ll learn why it has one of the few remaining all wooden churches and the important role Honfleur played in the settlement of New France.
Lunch:
Aboard ship. Lunches and dinners will be plated and served 3-course meals with mineral water, fruit juices, tea, coffee, wine, and beer included; other beverages available for purchase at the bar or off the wine list at meals.
Afternoon:
Our Group Leader will accompany us on a walking field trip to the Musée Eugène Boudin for a self-directed exploration. Situated in a 19th-century chapel and two modern extensions, with views over Honfleur and the Seine, the museum houses nearly 13,000 square feet of permanent exhibitions in nine rooms. Named after Honfleur’s most famous painter, there are works on display by not only Boudin himself, but also other great impressionists such as Dubourg, Monet, and Jongkind. We will walk back to the ship after our field trip and have a welcome drink before dinner.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. The ship will head to our next port, Caudebec.
Day
10
Duclair, Abbey of Saint Wandrille
Location:
Rouen
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
CroisiEurope MS Renoir
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; short drive. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours; unavoidable steps at abbey, uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will leave the ship in Caudebec and ride a short distance to the Abbey of St. Wandrille. A local expert will take us through the monastery that was founded in the 7th century. Although much of the abbey has been rebuilt, the chapel of Saint Saturnin remains standing on the hillside overlooking the abbey and is one of the oldest ecclesiastical structures still in existence. After exploring the abbey, we will have an opportunity for those who would like to attend mass with the Benedictine monks as they sing Gregorian chants. We will then ride on to meet the ship in Duclair.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We will gather with our Group Leader for a lecture about aspects of World War II. We will learn about discoveries that emerged during the war such as penicillin (discovered in 1928 and first used on humans in 1942), jet aircraft, and nylon.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Rouen, Photographer Lecture
Location:
Rouen
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
CroisiEurope MS Renoir
Activity Note
Activity Notes Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours during field trip; cobblestone streets, uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will step off the ship and explore historic Rouen on a walking field trip with a local expert. We’ll see its famous half-timbered houses and the magnificent cathedral where Monet studied and painted the effects of changing light. As we go, we’ll learn about this unique city’s history, taking time to pause at the site where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. We will walk back to the ship after our field trip.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We will gather for a lecture about Robert Capa, a photographer who captured some of the most renowned images of the D-Day invasion and the liberation of Paris.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Giverny, Monet Lecture
Location:
Vernon
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
CroisiEurope MS Renoir
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving about 62 miles, approximately 1.5 hours riding time. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours; even and uneven terrain.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will leave the ship, board a motorcoach, and ride to Giverny, where Claude Monet (1840-1926) planned, planted, and painted his incredible gardens. Looking at the very gardens that inspired him, we’ll learn about his famous art and the Impressionist movement with commentary by our Study Leader. Walking through the water garden and Clos Normand, we may feel as if we have stepped right into one of Monet’s famous water lily paintings! Monet drew pictures as a child, went to a school for the arts, and painted many outdoor scenes during his career. Monet and his artist friends rebelled against the kind of conservative art approved by critics and created their own style. It was called Impressionism because it was an “impression” of a scene, painted outdoors to capture the look of natural light. Today, Impressionism is one of the most popular art forms in the world. We will ride back to the ship after our field trip.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
We will gather for a lecture to learn more about Claude Monet and his legacy at Giverny.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Paris, L’Île de la Cité, Free Time
Location:
Paris
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
CroisiEurope MS Renoir
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; city driving. Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to 2 hours at a time; cobblestones, uneven terrain. Expect large crowds at historic sites.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
After stepping on the ship, we will board motorcoach with our Group Leader, then set out on a walking field trip to explore medieval Paris and the Île de la Cité. The “Île” is the heart of Paris and the location where the city was founded. It is dominated by the Gothic cathedral, Notre-Dame de Paris. Construction began in 1163 and was not completed until 1345. Damaged and restored a number of times — including the disastrous fire of April 2019 — it remains one of the largest and finest examples of Gothic architecture anywhere. We will be able to admire the exterior before returning to the ship.
Lunch:
Aboard ship.
Afternoon:
Free time. Take this opportunity to explore Paris at your own pace, seeing and doing what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Dinner:
Aboard ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for disembarkation in the morning.
Day
14
Liberation of Paris, Musée du Louvre
Location:
Paris
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Best Western Plus Paris Roissy - L'Esprit Libre
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; city driving. Walking up to 3 miles, standing up to 2 hours at a time; cobblestones, uneven terrain. Expect large crowds at historic sites.
Breakfast:
Aboard ship.
Morning:
We will pack up and disembark the ship. Our luggage will be stored securely in the motorcoach we will be using to get around the city today. We will meet a local expert for a walking field trip to learn about the occupation and liberation of Paris during World War II. After gaining foundational insights, we will walk through areas of Paris that were under German occupation and discuss the resistance and liberation. We’ll begin at the Hotel Meurice, once the German headquarters, and end at the statue of Charles de Gaulle on the Champs Elysées, with stops in between.
Lunch:
On your own to enjoy what you like in Paris, from world-famous cuisine at renowned restaurants to charming sidewalk cafés and bistros.
Afternoon:
We will regroup at an announced time and place with our Group Leader and ride to the Musée du Louvre. During our self-directed exploration, we will have time to explore and investigate the wing or collection of masterpieces that piques your interest most. From the Louvre, we will ride to our last hotel and check in.
Dinner:
At a restaurant near the hotel. Share favorite experiences with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Day
15
Program Concludes, In Transit From Program
Location:
Paris
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out 12:00 Noon. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel. This concludes our program.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on another rewarding program in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
MEALS
35 Meals
13 Breakfasts
11 Lunches
11 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
- May 19, 2025 - Jun 02, 2025
- Sep 22, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 28 Reviews
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Excellent expérience. Staff was excellent from the waiters to our guide. All accommodations were excellent. Be prepared for busy, varied, and interesting adventure. Meeting new people from such a varied background added to the experience.
— Review left October 14, 2024
Excellent experience and learned so much about France during WW2, occupation, and D-Day. We had a great and knowledgeable group leader and everyone on the tour was fun to meet!
— Review left October 12, 2024
This program was a rich mix of history, culture and exploring the outdoors in a beautiful part of France. Really, two trips in one!
— Review left October 3, 2024
This program gave me a much deeper understanding of D Day and the war in France. I would highly recommend it to others who are interested in this subject.
— Review left October 2, 2024
A Rloads Scholar trip was a mind and heart changing experience for me. I wonder if I shall ever make a big trip on my own again, ....but I probably will!
— Review left May 26, 2024
This trip was top of the class for us. This was our 13th RS trip. We go with RS because of the knowledge and quality of the guides and instructors. The past came alive and folded into our understanding of the present. Also loved learning to eat the French way!
— Review left May 26, 2024
"The Siene: D-Day Beaches to Paris" was an exceptionally informative program focusing on WWII, and also including general history, architecture, and art. I wish everyone would take this tour! We can better appreciate what our parents, relatives, Allied Forces and the loyal French went through during this terrible time.
— Review left October 23, 2023
Our first Road Scholar trip and not our last .We met lots of experienced travelers that know a good deal when they see it . The knowledge base in each region we visited was outstanding !
— Review left October 22, 2023
Excellent, would do again just to learn more.
— Review left October 14, 2023
Having basically a lifelong desire to visit the Normandy area and the D-Day beaches and locations, i was definitely pleased with this trip. We spent time at all of the places necessary for the right learning experience from my perspective.the leaders were great and knowledgeable and well organized. I would highly recommend this trip to every American.
— Review left October 13, 2023
This program provided a variety of information and experiences. There was something here for everyone, i.e. WWII history, art, French culture, architecture, and a lovely cruise. Replicating this program on an individual basis would be next to impossible. The leaders and local guides were top notch and were eager to share their knowledge and experiences. What more could one ask?
— Review left October 13, 2023
This program's itinerary covered everything we wanted to see on a trip to Normandy - our guides were knowledgeable and engaging, the food terrific, and France itself was a delight. A wonderful two weeks! Deb B.
— Review left June 13, 2023
This experience was everything I hoped for and more.
The historical perspective offered during our field trips to the the beaches, towns, and memorials associated with D Day and the battle for Normandy was presented in a well organized and detailed way by an expert who accompanied the group for 3 days.
Accommodations and food throughout were outstanding.
— Review left October 23, 2022
It was our 4th Road Scholar. All have been uniformly excellent. The trip exceeded our expectations.
— Review left October 17, 2022
If you want to learn about the D-Day invasion in detail, this is a trip you should not miss! From trips to three of the landing beaches and an amazing museum in Caen, we really were educated about this massive undertaking. Road Scholar surpassed our expectations on this adventure in every way, from field trips, to food, to accommodations. We will certainly travel with them again.
— Review left October 11, 2022
This was a comprehensive over view of the WWII experience in Normandy. I thought Normandy was just one spot. I learned it covered many miles in France. The USA war effort, joined by Allies, was fascinating. Learning about the arts, Monet, the Louve made France come alive for me.
— Review left September 28, 2022
An incredible journey back into history and provide great perspective into the invasion, the effect on the French people, landscape and architecture
— Review left October 8, 2021
Road Scholar trips are not tourist trips.. they are a learning experience.
— Review left November 20, 2019
if you are interested in WW 2 history and sights along the Seine this is the perfect tour for you.
— Review left October 12, 2019
If you have an interest in knowing more about the Normandy invasion and obtain first hand observation on the various battle sites, then this trip is for you.
— Review left October 10, 2019
Great program! I gained a true appreciation for the efforts during D Day. Program guides were great and I highly recommend this program!
— Review left September 24, 2019
Just got in from the Mont St. Michel, Normandy, Paris, river cruise program after leaving Paris this AM. Could not have been better. Well organized. World class guides. Our first Road Scholar Program and certainly not our last.
— Review left September 11, 2019
This was just a marvelous tour. The history of the D-Day Invasion was shown at every beach and area. The river boat was wonderful, such a wonderful way to travel throughout this beautiful area.
— Review left May 29, 2019
This was a great trip. Excellent tour guide. Accomodations, transportation and food all excellent. Definitely worth the time and money.
— Review left May 24, 2019
If they are physically and financially able, everyone should go to Normandy, to understand what happened there. If you go, go with Road Scholar.
— Review left May 21, 2019
This was our 10th RS trip and I have to say it was the best! Our leader Bill was wonderful, we had a great group, and it was long enough to see many highlights in France. Food was amazing, everywhere. Boat lovely and we were lucky with the weather.
— Review left May 20, 2019
If you are interested in the WWII Normandy invasion, this trip will give you a good understanding of the topic.
— Review left May 2, 2019
This trip was perfect. We chose this tour because you visit all 5 beaches.
A friend from our local Maritime Foundation asked us to give a talk on D-Day when we returned.
Sure enough, we're giving that talk tonight. Luckily, we took a lot of pictures, and after doing more homework, we're ready to give the talk.
Our guides were wonderful, so knowledgeable.
We arrived in Paris 3 days early and stayed an extra 2 days to visit The Eiffel Tower, Montmarte, Chartres, Versailles, etc.
All in all it was wonderful
— Review left February 21, 2019
