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Magical Parisian Holiday

8 Day Cruise from Paris to Paris

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AARP Members Save on select departures
SAVE UP TO $1,480
From $4,679
WAS $6,159
Find this price
8 Days
1 Country

France

4 Cities

Paris, Mantes la Jolie, Rouen, Vernon

All Meals

Dinners, Breakfast Buffets, Lunchs, Welcome Dinner, Farewell Dinner, Continental Breakfast

Comfortable

Mainly 2 and 3 night stays in each location. Comfortable travel days with numerous stops. Requires walking to participate in top sites.

Average group size 120 passengers
River Cruises by Uniworld River Cruises

All-Inclusive River Cruises by Uniworld

If all-inclusive, luxury travel is your standard go-to, or are traveling to celebrate a milestone or special occasion, a boutique, luxury river cruise is the perfect choice. The world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line, for more than four decades, Uniworld has specialized in providing intimate and in-depth one-of-a-kind journeys for travelers seeking to explore the rivers of the world in exceptional style. On every all-inclusive Uniworld river cruise, you’ll be whisked away to a variety of destinations in one trip onboard a beautiful river ship. Along the way, you’ll enjoy five-star cuisine, unique local experiences, and exceptional service from the longest tenured crew in river cruising.

View all Uniworld River Cruises

S.S. Joie de Vivre

S.S. Joie de Vivre brings the “joy of living” to the rivers of France. Step aboard your floating pied-à-terre in France, featuring handcrafted furniture and fine antiques, original artwork, and signature accents inspired by 20th-century Parisian design from the Golden Twenties to the free-spirited Sixties, all blending seamlessly with modern conveniences.

See Ship

Christmas Market Vacations

Experience the magical Christmas markets of Europe. Join the festive spirit as you visit iconic destinations like Germany, Austria, and France, exploring famous markets filled with handcrafted gifts, delicious treats, and a joyful ambiance. Let expert guides lead the way, ensuring a memorable holiday season surrounded by the charm of Europe's Christmas markets.

View all Christmas Market Vacations

For a holiday season experience that will truly take your breath away, embark on a luxury cruise on the Seine during Advent. It should come as no surprise that the City of Lights pulls out all the stops during the Season of Lights, yet Paris still manages to astonish locals and visitors alike with its festive displays. As we venture into the countryside, we’ll enjoy private visits to festively decorated chateaux, plentiful shopping opportunities, and even a few French Christmas markets.

Average group size
120 passengers
River Cruises by
Uniworld River Cruises
Travel style
S.S. Joie de Vivre Christmas Market Vacation
Day-by-day itinerary

Day 1

Paris (Embark)

Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

Paris (Embark)
Included Meals Dinner

Day 2

Paris, Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Paris, Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)
Included Meals Breakfast Buffet, Lunch, Welcome Dinner
Featured Excursions
Versailles Palace Secret Apartments

It was the official residence of the country’s kings and queens from 1682 until the revolution, and though the monarchy possessed other palac...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Day 3

Rouen

Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious.

Included Meals Breakfast Buffet, Lunch, Dinner
Featured Excursions
Rouen Christmas Market

Sprawled out in the square in front of the Rouen Cathedral, you’ll find dozens of vendors selling Normandy products, hot drinks to warm your ...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Featured Excursions
Nights Out: Children’s Cathedral Choir

After visiting the Christmas Market, we’ll enter the Rouen cathedral for a private choral performance in a movingly atmospheric setting.

Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Featured Excursions
The Collector's Mansion

Head to a 17th century estate in the countryside. Originally created for the Maréchal de Créqui, it was purchased and lovingly restor...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Featured Excursions
Meet the Ateliers of Rouen

Creative minds have always thrived in Rouen—perhaps finding inspiration in its romantically cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and memor...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Day 4

Rouen, Caudebec en Caux (Fécamp)

The Seine-Maritime is a breath of fresh air. An idyllic department tucked away between the Seine and France’s northwestern coastline, this area is replete with historic towns, seaports, and locals who are passionate about keeping the traditions of France alive.

Included Meals Breakfast Buffet, Lunch, Dinner
Featured Excursions
Seine-Maritime Discovery Day

Get a taste for this wonderful region on a whirlwind day of discovery. Choose between one of two treasured pieces of local heritage—the charm...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Day 5

Vernon, La Roche Guyon

Fall even deeper in love with the Normandy countryside today. In addition to a private visit to “the Little Versailles,” you can spend your day sipping on farm-fresh Normandy cider.

Vernon, La Roche Guyon
Included Meals Breakfast Buffet, Lunch, Dinner
Featured Excursions
Normandy Cider Farm

See firsthand why Normandy is known as “the orchard of France.” Renowned for the hundreds of apple varieties grown here, the region is ...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Featured Excursions
Château Bizy Private Visit

Built in 1740, this beautiful palatial residence has housed royalty for centuries. On a private visit for Uniworld guests, you will have the time a...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Day 6

Paris

Embrace the holiday spirit as we ferry you around the best Christmas markets of Paris, where you’ll find delicious seasonal goodies and some excellent gifting opportunities waiting for you. Later, you’re in for a real treat: a private welcome to a beautiful château.

Paris
Included Meals Breakfast Buffet, Lunch, Dinner
Featured Excursions
The Christmas Markets of Paris

Allow us to ferry you around a sampling of the finest Christmas markets in Paris, where you’ll find collections of cozy little booths vending...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Featured Excursions
Private Reception at Château de Vaux le Vicomte

The stunning, moat-framed façade of Château de Vaux le Vicomte rivals any palace in Europe—even Versailles, considering this ch&...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Day 7

Paris

Today is all about the glamor that makes Paris Paris, as we honor Parisian shopping culture with a walking tour of the city’s famous seasonal window displays, complete with a visit to the opera house.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Paris
Included Meals Breakfast Buffet, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Featured Excursions
Paris Opera & the Haussmann Displays

In a city that celebrates art & culture, the Palais Garnier is a must-see. This historic venue for opera and ballet is close to another celebra...

See More
Included in Trip

Featured Excursions

Day 8

Paris (Disembark)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home.

Paris (Disembark)

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Included Highlights

Top Highlights

Featured Excursions
Versailles Palace Secret Apartments

It was the official residence of the country’s kings and queens from 1682 until the revolution, and though the monarchy possessed other palac...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Rouen Christmas Market

Sprawled out in the square in front of the Rouen Cathedral, you’ll find dozens of vendors selling Normandy products, hot drinks to warm your ...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Nights Out: Children’s Cathedral Choir

After visiting the Christmas Market, we’ll enter the Rouen cathedral for a private choral performance in a movingly atmospheric setting.

Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
The Collector's Mansion

Head to a 17th century estate in the countryside. Originally created for the Maréchal de Créqui, it was purchased and lovingly restor...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Meet the Ateliers of Rouen

Creative minds have always thrived in Rouen—perhaps finding inspiration in its romantically cobbled streets, medieval architecture, and memor...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Seine-Maritime Discovery Day

Get a taste for this wonderful region on a whirlwind day of discovery. Choose between one of two treasured pieces of local heritage—the charm...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Normandy Cider Farm

See firsthand why Normandy is known as “the orchard of France.” Renowned for the hundreds of apple varieties grown here, the region is ...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Château Bizy Private Visit

Built in 1740, this beautiful palatial residence has housed royalty for centuries. On a private visit for Uniworld guests, you will have the time a...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
The Christmas Markets of Paris

Allow us to ferry you around a sampling of the finest Christmas markets in Paris, where you’ll find collections of cozy little booths vending...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Private Reception at Château de Vaux le Vicomte

The stunning, moat-framed façade of Château de Vaux le Vicomte rivals any palace in Europe—even Versailles, considering this ch&...

See More
Included in Trip
Featured Excursions
Paris Opera & the Haussmann Displays

In a city that celebrates art & culture, the Palais Garnier is a must-see. This historic venue for opera and ballet is close to another celebra...

See More
Included in Trip

Authentic Dining

All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients

7 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 7 dinners

Captain's Welcome and Farewell Receptions

Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners

Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water

Excursions

6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts

State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions

Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Accommodations

7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the alluring S.S. Joie de Vivre

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options

Free Wi-Fi

Experiences

6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts

State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions

Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Cruise: Western & Central Europe

Dining  

When dining onboard, you’ll be treated to world-class cuisine made from fresh ingredients, locally sourced from the destinations you visit. 

Complimentary Beverages  

All beverages are included during your cruise. Complimentary beverages onboard include wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water.  

Gratuities 

Gratuities for all onboard personnel including the ship staff, crew, and Cruise Manager, are included. 

Curated Excursions 

Complementary and comprehensive shore excursions led by local English-speaking experts designed to provide the best possible experiences ashore. 

Scheduled Airport Transfers 

Complementary airport arrival and departure group transfers provided for flights that meet guidelines.

Uniworld sails rivers in several Western & Central European Countries, including Austria, Belgium, Croatia, France, Germany, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Switzerland 

  • Official Languages: Croatian (Croatia), Dutch (Belgium, Netherlands), French (Belgium, France, Switzerland), German (Austria, Belgium, Germany, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Switzerland), Italian (Italy, Switzerland), Luxembourgish (Luxembourg), Portuguese (Portugal), Spanish (Spain), Romansh (Switzerland) 
  • Capital Cities: Vienna (Austria), Brussels (Belgium), Zagreb (Croatia), Paris (France), Berlin (Germany), Rome (Italy), Vaduz (Liechtenstein), Luxembourg City (Luxembourg), Amsterdam (Netherlands), Lisbon (Portugal), Madrid (Spain), Bern (Switzerland).  
  • Time Zones: Western European Time (EET), UTC+0, and Western European Summer Time (EEST), UTC+1, Central European Time (CET) UTC+1, Central European Summer Time (CEST) UTC+2 during daylight saving time. 
  • Currencies: 
    Austria: Euro (EUR) € 
    Belgium: Euro (EUR) € 
    Croatia: Croatian Kuna (HRK) kn 
    France: Euro (EUR) € 
    Germany: Euro (EUR) € 
    Italy: Euro (EUR) € 
    Liechtenstein: Swiss Franc (CHF) CHF 
    Luxembourg: Euro (EUR) € 
    Netherlands: Euro (EUR) € 
    Portugal: Euro (EUR) € 
    Spain: Euro (EUR) € 
    Switzerland: Swiss Franc (CHF) CHF 

All Uniworld river cruises require a passport with at least two blank pages for entry stamps. Must be valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of your trip.  

All U.S. passport holders are required to have a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter or transit through the United Kingdom, including England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Apply for Your 2025 UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA): VISIT www.gov.uk

Visa Requirements: Access the latest entry requirements for all your destinations with our user-friendly Destination Entry Guide. Powered by CIBT, the leading authority in travel visas and US passports; check back as often as you like before your trip to ensure you have everything you need before you depart.  

  • Austria: Austria features a temperate continental climate with cold winters and mild summers. Precipitation is evenly distributed throughout the year, with more rain in the summer months. 
  • Belgium: Belgium has a temperate maritime climate characterized by mild winters and cool summers. Rainfall is distributed evenly throughout the year. 
  • Croatia: Croatia has a varied climate, with continental influences inland and a Mediterranean climate along the coast. Summers are hot and dry, while winters are mild along the coast but colder inland with snowfall. 
  • France: France experiences a variety of climates, ranging from oceanic and Mediterranean to alpine. Generally, it has mild winters and warm summers, but specific regions may have different weather patterns. 
  • Germany: Germany has a temperate seasonal climate with moderate rainfall throughout the year. Winters are usually cold, while summers are mild to warm. 
  • Italy: Italy has a diverse climate, with Mediterranean conditions prevailing along the coast and continental climates in the interior. Summers are typically hot and dry, while winters are mild in the south and colder in the north. 
  • Liechtenstein: Liechtenstein has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Precipitation is moderate throughout the year, with slightly more rain in the summer months. 
  • Luxembourg: Luxembourg has a temperate maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year. 
  • The Netherlands: The Netherlands has a maritime climate influenced by the North Sea, with mild winters and cool summers. Rainfall is frequent throughout the year. 
  • Portugal: Portugal has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The southern region experiences hotter temperatures compared to the north. 
  • Spain: Spain has a diverse climate, ranging from Mediterranean in the south to maritime and continental in the north. Summers are typically hot and dry, while winters vary from mild to cold depending on the region. 
  • Switzerland: Switzerland has a temperate climate with distinct regional variations. The Alpine region experiences cold winters and cool summers, while the lowlands have milder temperatures with more precipitation throughout the year. 

Baggage Allowance 

Baggage storage space onboard is limited. For their own comfort and convenience, Uniworld requests guests bring one (1) suitcase per person and one (1) carry-on bag per person (excluding purses). Airline baggage restrictions change frequently. Guests should check on the specific air carrier’s website for limitations concerning baggage weight, baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or overweight baggage charges.  

Packing Tips for a River Cruise 

Packing for a river cruise will vary depending on the duration of the trip, the time of year, and the activities planned. Here is a general packing list to help you get started: 

  • A valid and current passport
  • A copy of your travel insurance and any necessary travel documents. 
  • Your Cruise Travel Companion, easily accessible should you need to reference it. 
  • Prepare for a variety of weather conditions, depending on your travel season and the regions through which you will be cruising. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, as this allows you to adjust to most temperatures, by removing or adding items throughout the day.  
  • Comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear is fine both onshore and onboard. Everyday slacks, khakis, walking shorts and everyday skirts/dresses are recommended. For warmer months, bring lightweight clothing that can be layered. For early spring and late fall departures, heavier cotton or wool tops and long-sleeved shirts, and pants are perfectly suitable. 
  • Comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. You will participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore.  
  • A lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably a hooded one) for all seasons, and a heavier weight jacket for colder temperatures and destinations.  
  • Evening wear: Resort-type wear is perfectly suitable. Men may want to bring a sport jacket for dressier venues and for special events onboard such as the Captain’s Welcome and Farewell festivities. Women may wish to bring a cocktail dress or two for finer dining or entertainment experiences.  

Laundry Services Onboard 

A launderette containing a self-service washing machine, dryer, and iron is available for your use while aboard the ship. The ship also provides washing, drying, and ironing services for a fee. There are no dry-cleaning facilities. 

Electrical Currency on European Ships 

Electrical current is 220V, the European standard. To accommodate guests’ needs, each stateroom or suite has one 110V outlet.  

Using a Hair Dryer Onboard 

Every stateroom or suite bathroom is stocked with a hair dryer, bath and body products, and a luxurious bathrobe for each guest. 

Air Conditioning  

Every stateroom and suite has an individual thermostat for air-conditioning and/or heat.  

Connecting to the Internet & Wi-Fi 

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available.  

From visiting a museum without the crowds to an after-hours tour of a famous landmark, these included, once-in-a-lifetime experiences are arranged privately for Uniworld guests. All shore excursions are carefully coordinated to the ship’s daily schedule. Each motorcoach or walking group has its own English-speaking local expert.  

Masterpiece Collection (Additional, Optional Experiences) 

Uniworld’s curated Masterpiece Collection of optional excursions go above and beyond the included experiences and are available for an additional charge. 

We highly recommend having travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad. 

Spa Treatments & Massages While Cruising* 

Spa treatments and massage services are available onboard the ship. 

Special Dietary Needs 

Please notify GET or Uniworld if you have special dietary concerns or considerations that need to be considered while traveling. Uniworld staff will do their best to ensure that your request is accommodated, but GET cannot guarantee that requests can be met in all cases.  

Mobility Concerns 

Passengers must advise GET at time of booking of any physical, medical, or other special needs that require accommodation.  

Uniworld does not employ staff nurses or doctors onboard its ships, nor can they provide personal medical or mobility devices (such as wheelchairs, hearing aids, or prescription eyeglasses) or services of a personal nature (such as pushing a wheelchair or assistance in eating, toileting, or dressing). A companion capable of providing such assistance must accompany any passenger who requires services of a personal nature. Please note, embarkation/disembarkation facilities may not be navigable using wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or the like. As well, excursions often include rough terrain, extensive walking over cobblestone streets, uneven pavement, or stairs. 

Traveling with Medications 

In accordance with international laws, no over-the-counter medications are available on Uniworld ships. Pack a plentiful supply of any medication you may need while on vacation. Click the link to learn more about traveling with medications 

*Available on select ships. Additional fee for spa services.  

Gratuities for all onboard personnel including the ship staff, crew, and Cruise Manager, are included during your cruise. 

Local Specialists & Coach Drivers 

It is customary to show appreciation for the insights, stories, and know-how shared with you by the Local Specialists, and we suggest a gratuity of €1-2 (Euro) per person per half day.

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