The Seine River

The Seine River is probably France's best-known, and a popular choice for river cruises through France. Springing up from vineyard-coated Burgundy, the Seine flows for 482 miles, snaking through Paris, one of the world’s most romantic and iconic capitals. Reaching northwards into Normandy, the Seine River winds through orchards, meadows and wooded hills, revealing beauty and history at every turn before reaching the English Channel at Le Havre. On an Avalon Waterways river cruise, you'll get a unique view of French history and culture along the banks of the stunning River Seine from your luxurious stateroom. The Seine’s landscapes have inspired generations of artists, including Monet and Cezanne. The river has also witnessed significant historical events; during the Middle Ages, Joan of Arc was martyred in Seine-side Rouen, whilst in World War II the Seine River became a critical military crossing point. In 1991, its Parisian banks – the famous Rive Gauche and Rive Droite – were accorded UNESCO World Heritage status. You can experience all this and more on a Seine River cruise with Avalon Waterways.

Highlights of our Seine river cruises

• Paris
  • The Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, elegant boulevards and pavement cafes… our river cruises are the perfect way to explore this vibrant city.
• Auvers-sur-Oise
  • Once home to (and the final resting place of) Vincent Van Gogh.
• Château de Malmaison
  • This large country estate was purchased by Josephine Bonaparte in 1799 while Napoleon was fighting in Egypt.
• Giverny
  • The charming house and gardens (pictured above) where Claude Monet painted his luminous ‘Water Lilies’.
• Rouen
  • This atmospheric city boasts an old quarter dominated by crooked houses, cobbled lanes and a fine Gothic cathedral.
• Normandy’s coast
  • The poignant D-Day beaches ensure that we never forget.