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The Best of Spain with Paris to Normandy
Operated by Avalon Waterways
Tripcode: XZV5
Overview
Destination:
France,
Spain,
Duration:16 days
Type:Group tour (max 90)
Travel Period
May 2027 - September 2027
16 Day River Cruise Madrid to Paris
Turn the page on ordinary travel with a 9-day guided journey through Spain, where every day writes a new chapter in your story.From Madrid’s art-filled Prado Museum to Barcelona’s tree-lined La Rambla, we show you the country’s top must-see sights, indulging in pans of zesty paella and pitchers of tangy sangria along the way. While you’ll treat yourself to the fresh catches from the sea, the olives from the hills, and the wine from the lush river valleys, it’s sights such as Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex, Seville’s over-the-top Plaza de España, and Barcelona’s unparalleled Sagrada Familia Basilica that are a feast for the eyes. Plus, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Seville, so you can plan your day your way.Next, trade Spanish sunshine for French treasures along the Seine as you step aboard your Avalon Suite Ship® for a 7-night river cruise. Cruise your way with Avalon Choice® excursions—choose from Classic, Active, and Discovery experiences to tailor your journey to you. Sip French wine, sample creamy cheeses, and drift through the heart of Normandy—where every bend reveals history and beauty. Walk the legendary Normandy landing beaches, lose yourself in Monet’s blooming gardens, and soak up the medieval allure of Rouen. You’ll end your adventure in Paris, exploring iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods that capture the true spirit of this enchanting city.
Turn the page on ordinary travel with a 9-day guided journey through Spain, where every day writes a new chapter in your story.From Madrid’s art-filled Prado Museum to Barcelona’s tree-lined La Rambla, we show you the country’s top must-see sights, indulging in pans of zesty paella and pitchers of tangy sangria along the way. While you’ll treat yourself to the fresh catches from the sea, the olives from the hills, and the wine from the lush river valleys, it’s sights such as Granada’s opulent Alhambra complex, Seville’s over-the-top Plaza de España, and Barcelona’s unparalleled Sagrada Familia Basilica that are a feast for the eyes. Plus, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Seville, so you can plan your day your way.Next, trade Spanish sunshine for French treasures along the Seine as you step aboard your Avalon Suite Ship® for a 7-night river cruise. Cruise your way with Avalon Choice® excursions—choose from Classic, Active, and Discovery experiences to tailor your journey to you. Sip French wine, sample creamy cheeses, and drift through the heart of Normandy—where every bend reveals history and beauty. Walk the legendary Normandy landing beaches, lose yourself in Monet’s blooming gardens, and soak up the medieval allure of Rouen. You’ll end your adventure in Paris, exploring iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods that capture the true spirit of this enchanting city.
Notes:
- 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.
Highlights:
Itinerary
Expand all 
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Collapse allDay 1 - ARRIVE IN MADRID, SPAIN
Welcome to Madrid! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome dinner at your hotel. (D)
Day 2 - MADRID
Masterpieces in Madrid
This morning, discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.
This morning, discover the city's historic grandeur along the boulevards. Admire elegant buildings and views of legendary landmarks, including the Plaza de España monument to Miguel de Cervantes, author of "Don Quixote." Visit the world-famous Prado Museum for further glimpses into Spanish culture and history through its art collection. Enjoy an afternoon and evening at leisure to explore more of this captivating city. (B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTART & ARCHITECTURE The Prado Museum houses one of the world’s largest art collections, including its amazing assortment of masterpieces by historic artists like Velasquez, Goya, and El Greco. The famous museum also displays the works of renowned European masters, including Rubens and Rembrandt, along with a stunning collection of Greco-Roman statues.
Day 3 - MADRID–CORDOBA–SEVILLE
Treasures of Cordoba
Enjoy a scenic drive south into the region of Andalusia. This afternoon, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to see the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge, and the remains of the Alcazar. The tour highlight is a visit of the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Enjoy some free time to browse the narrow streets before continuing to the vibrant city of Seville. 336 mi / 540 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque’s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city.(B,D)
Enjoy a scenic drive south into the region of Andalusia. This afternoon, visit the magnificent city of Cordoba and follow your Local Guide on a walking tour to see the Jewish Quarter, the Roman Bridge, and the remains of the Alcazar. The tour highlight is a visit of the Mosque of the Caliphs, one of the Twelve Treasures of Spain. Enjoy some free time to browse the narrow streets before continuing to the vibrant city of Seville. 336 mi / 540 kmTOUR HIGHLIGHT ANCIENT ARCHITECTURE The Mosque of Córdoba (Mezquita-Catedral de Córdoba in Spanish) today is a Catholic cathedral but was originally a mosque built for Muslim prayer by Abd ar-Rahman I in the 8th century. The mosque’s architecture is rich in dazzling detail, with over 800 granite and marble pillars supporting its beautiful brick and stone arches - a major focal point in the mosque along with the soaring bell tower – the tallest structure in the city.(B,D)
Day 4 - SEVILLE
Spend Your Day Your Way in Seville
This morning, discover what makes Seville so special. Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, then explore more of Seville with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. Spectacular SevilleA guided walking tour in historic Seville stuns with a visit to Casa de Pilatos. Explore the palace's fusion of architectural styles adorned with a collection of Roman sculptures. Continue with a stroll through Seville's Barrio de Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of charming, narrow streets in the heart of historic Seville.Parks & PavillionsThe cool, peaceful oases of Seville are calling with a guided walk through two of the city¿s verdant parks. Admire the colorful flora and ornamental fountains in the vibrant Prado de San Sebastián. Stroll the Parque de Maria Luisa, where striking monuments and over 140 species of trees grace the site of the 1929 Hispano-American Exhibition. Conclude your walk outside Seville Cathedral.Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to discover more of Seville.(B)
This morning, discover what makes Seville so special. Start with a visit to the Plaza de España, one of the city’s most famous landmarks, then explore more of Seville with your choice of included Globus Choice excursions. Spectacular SevilleA guided walking tour in historic Seville stuns with a visit to Casa de Pilatos. Explore the palace's fusion of architectural styles adorned with a collection of Roman sculptures. Continue with a stroll through Seville's Barrio de Santa Cruz, a labyrinth of charming, narrow streets in the heart of historic Seville.Parks & PavillionsThe cool, peaceful oases of Seville are calling with a guided walk through two of the city¿s verdant parks. Admire the colorful flora and ornamental fountains in the vibrant Prado de San Sebastián. Stroll the Parque de Maria Luisa, where striking monuments and over 140 species of trees grace the site of the 1929 Hispano-American Exhibition. Conclude your walk outside Seville Cathedral.Enjoy free time this afternoon and evening to discover more of Seville.(B)
Day 5 - SEVILLE–GRANADA
Drive to Granada for today’s highlight, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Alhambra Complex*, an Islamic architectural masterpiece. Visit the breathtaking complex with your Local Guide and discover what makes it so special. Later, enjoy some free time getting acquainted with this captivating city, shaped by its blend of cultural influences. 158 mi / 255 km*Alhambra complex: Entrance to Nasrid Palace is not guaranteedTOUR HIGHLIGHTARCHITECTURAL GEMS Granada’s Alhambra Complex stands as one of the largest ancient aristocratic sites of Western Muslim culture. Its leafy lanes and streams enhance the grand water gardens of Generalife, once the summer palace and country estate of the Nasrid rulers.(B)
Day 6 - GRANADA–VALENCIA
Spanish Specialties
Enjoy a scenic drive past the mountains towards the coast and the vibrant city of Valencia. Meet your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to see the Torres de Serranos and Plaza de Toros, a photo stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, plus a walking tour of Old Valencia. Visit a Horchateria to try the traditional Valencian horchata drink. This evening, get a real taste for Valencia with [LF] a mouthwatering traditional Paella dinner at a local restaurant. 329 mi / 530 kmLOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Enjoy an authentic Spanish paella dinner in Valencia. Traditional Paella Valenciana is made with chicken and sweet paprika and golden saffron in a slow simmered broth for a sumptuous, heart-warming hallmark of traditional Spanish cuisine.(B,D)
Enjoy a scenic drive past the mountains towards the coast and the vibrant city of Valencia. Meet your Local Guide for a sightseeing tour that features a panoramic drive to see the Torres de Serranos and Plaza de Toros, a photo stop at the City of Arts and Sciences, plus a walking tour of Old Valencia. Visit a Horchateria to try the traditional Valencian horchata drink. This evening, get a real taste for Valencia with [LF] a mouthwatering traditional Paella dinner at a local restaurant. 329 mi / 530 kmLOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Enjoy an authentic Spanish paella dinner in Valencia. Traditional Paella Valenciana is made with chicken and sweet paprika and golden saffron in a slow simmered broth for a sumptuous, heart-warming hallmark of traditional Spanish cuisine.(B,D)
Day 7 - VALENCIA–BARCELONA
The Boulevards of Barcelona
Enjoy the changing panorama during a scenic drive along the coast past some of Spain’s most famous seaside resorts to Barcelona. Free time this afternoon and evening to get acquainted with this flamboyant city, its lively atmosphere, amazing architecture, and tasty local dishes. 217 mi / 350 kmENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE MORE in Barcelona in the footsteps of Picasso through the historic heart of the old city. Indulge in the tradition and tastes of 2,000 years in the Gothic Quarter. Take in the charm and captivating history with a walk down the tree-lined avenue of La Rambla amid the terraces and street performers on Barcelona’s famous thoroughfare.(B)
Enjoy the changing panorama during a scenic drive along the coast past some of Spain’s most famous seaside resorts to Barcelona. Free time this afternoon and evening to get acquainted with this flamboyant city, its lively atmosphere, amazing architecture, and tasty local dishes. 217 mi / 350 kmENHANCED FREE TIMEEXPLORE MORE in Barcelona in the footsteps of Picasso through the historic heart of the old city. Indulge in the tradition and tastes of 2,000 years in the Gothic Quarter. Take in the charm and captivating history with a walk down the tree-lined avenue of La Rambla amid the terraces and street performers on Barcelona’s famous thoroughfare.(B)
Day 8 - BARCELONA
Adiós, Barcelona!
This morning, follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Gràcia. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Continue the tour with a drive to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. This evening [LF] enjoy Sangria and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Say farewell to Spain with Sangria and culinary specialties at a local city center restaurant. Often considered the signature drink of Spain and taking its name from its “blood red color,” Sangria’s origins are thought to go back to Roman times, when it was simply wine added to water. Since then, the recipe has been revisited many times and there are many delicious local variations.
This morning, follow your Local Guide on a sightseeing tour to see the Columbus Monument, Plaza de Cataluña, and Passeig de Gràcia. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Sagrada Familia Basilica. Continue the tour with a drive to Montjuïc Hill for panoramic views of the city and harbor. This evening [LF] enjoy Sangria and a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)LOCAL FAVORITE LOCAL TASTES Say farewell to Spain with Sangria and culinary specialties at a local city center restaurant. Often considered the signature drink of Spain and taking its name from its “blood red color,” Sangria’s origins are thought to go back to Roman times, when it was simply wine added to water. Since then, the recipe has been revisited many times and there are many delicious local variations.
Day 9 - BARCELONA─PARIS, FRANCE (EMBARKATION)
Welcome to France. Flight to Paris to board your Suite Ship®. Meet your Avalon Cruise Director and start your cruise along the Seine River.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VERNON(B,D)
Day 10 - VERNON
Monet’s Muses, Castle Courtyards, and Crêpes du JourVisit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.ACTIVE Take a Guided Bike Tour through the picturesque Normandy countryside from Vernon to Giverny, ending with a visit to Monet’s enchanting gardens and home, 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 SeineACTIVE 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.This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO CAUDEBEC(B,L,D)*Monet’s House is closed in March and November. During this period, this excursion will be replaced with a Guided Tour of La Roche-Guyon and its castle** This excursion will not be operated in November
Day 11 - CAUDEBEC
Ancient Abbeys Along the SeineACTIVE 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.Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CAUDEBEC(B,L,D)
Day 12 - CAUDEBEC. EXCURSION TO NORMANDY
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 (until the end of May replaced with a visit to the D-Day Museum), 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.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 Saint 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 and Canvases in the City of Light Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.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 cruise ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Dates
Select a date or submit general enquiry
Operator
Avalon Waterways
Designed from the bottom up for comfort, space, and room to dream, each Avalon Suite Ship consists of 80% Panorama Suites—offering the widest view in river cruising. Larger suites result in fewer passengers, so you’ll never feel crowded anywhere on board. From reclining on the open-air Sky Deck, relaxing in the spacious Panorama Lounge, or feeling the wind over the bough In the Observation Lounge, there’s never a shortage of comfortable spots to stretch out, day dream, or just watch the world go by. From our inception, Avalon Waterways has cast a light on the world’s most fascinating places and people – inviting wayfarers and wanderers like you to bask in their glory, intrigue and wonder. Along the way, we’ve helped travellers uncover ancient traditions while meeting the locals dedicated to preserving them; to meander historic hallways while giving back to the societies that safeguard them; and to put down the guidebooks and pick up a greater understanding of the world and its people.
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