Our 2015 trip to France on a Viking River Cruise from Paris to Normandy
Our trip to France was our first venture to the European continent.
We were told by several friends that a river cruise was the way to go. We booked a 7 day cruise from Paris to Normandy and back, and we also planned to be in Paris for three days before the cruise.
In retrospect, it was a very good plan because we were exhausted after our plane ride. We went from Atlanta to New York, and then on to Paris. A Viking representative met us at the airport and we had a private limo ride to Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe.
A Viking representative met us in the lobby, took care of our bags, and gave us our room key. We went up stairs and took a nap for a few hours and then explored the area near the hotel.
It was a marvelous area! Within walking distance to the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées. There were wonderful outdoor restaurants and the people were very friendly!
The next two days we leisurely toured Paris on foot and by taxi. Taxi's are the best way to get around! You can learn to use the transit system, but if your time is short use a taxi!
The fourth day of the trip we boarded the river boat and started our journey towards Normandy. We cannot say enough good things about Viking. Our balcony room was spacious with a walk in closet and a large bathroom. The food was excellent and they served wine with most of your meals. The people on the boat quickly became family and we met many interesting people.
The tours along the way were awesome! The highlights were Monnet's home and gardens, Normandy beach and the US cemetery. It was truly humbling to witness the area where so many American soldiers laid down their life for their country!
We visited castles and churches in every town along the way. The United States is young compared to Europe. I don't think we will ever match the grandeur of the European cities. We tear everything down when it shows a little wear around the edges!
So if you ever think about taking a river cruise we recommend Viking!