Embark on an unforgettable French odyssey where romance, refinement, and royal grandeur come together in perfect harmony. This exquisitely curated Paris & Versailles escape invites you to savor the soul of France, from the glowing boulevards of the City of Light to the gilded splendor of its legendary palace. Designed for the discerning traveler, every moment blends effortless elegance with immersive cultural discovery, ensuring an experience as timeless as Paris itself.
DAY 1: Welcome to France!
Upon disembarkation at the port of Le Havre or Honfleur, you will be warmly greeted by your local assistant, who will ensure a smooth and seamless start to your Parisian journey. Meet your transportation and sit back as you travel through the picturesque French countryside en route to Paris, the radiant City of Light.
On arrival in Paris, savor a three-course French lunch with wine at a local restaurant, offering a refined taste of classic French cuisine.
Following lunch, continue to your hotel for check-in at the Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or Similar. This elegant five-star historic landmark, once a renowned gathering place for writers and artists, beautifully blends classic Parisian charm with contemporary sophistication. Ideally located in the prestigious 9th arrondissement, just steps from the Opéra Garnier, Galeries Lafayette, and Place Vendôme, the hotel provides an exceptional base for your Parisian stay.
After check-in, the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Take time to relax or begin your own exploration of the neighborhood, stroll along the grand boulevards, browse nearby luxury boutiques, or savor your first café crème at a classic Parisian café. As evening falls, immerse yourself in the city’s enchanting atmosphere. Whether enjoying a leisurely walk toward the nearby Tuileries Gardens or dining in the elegant Opéra district, the magic of Paris unfolds just beyond your doorstep.
Dinner is on your own.
Overnight at Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or similar.
DAY 2: Paris at a Glance
Awaken to the charm of Paris and enjoy breakfast at your hotel before meeting your transportation and expert local guide for a panoramic tour of the city’s most beloved landmarks. Capture the beauty of Notre-Dame Cathedral, admire the Eiffel Tower from the elegant Palais de Chaillot, and drive along the legendary Champs-Élysées, passing the Arc de Triomphe and Place de la Concorde, a showcase of Parisian grandeur at every turn.
Continue to Montmartre, the city’s historic bohemian heart, where the white domes of Sacré-Cœur Basilica rise above a sea of rooftops and artists bring the charming Place du Tertre to life with color and creativity.
The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. You may choose to stroll along the Seine, browse Paris’s elegant boutiques, visit a museum, or simply relax at a classic Parisian café and enjoy the art of people-watching.
Meals are on your own.
Overnight at Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or similar.
DAY 3: Versailles: Royal Splendor & Gardens
After breakfast, set out on a royal journey to the magnificent Palace of Versailles, the crowning jewel of France’s royal heritage. Accompanied by your expert guide, step into the opulent world of Louis XIV, exploring the resplendent Hall of Mirrors, the Royal Apartments, and grand salons adorned with exquisite Baroque artistry. Each gilded corridor and ornate chamber tells a story of power, elegance, and the golden age of French culture.
Following your guided visit, enjoy a deluxe three-course lunch with wine at a charming local restaurant, offering a refined culinary interlude in an elegant setting.
Continue your exploration with a leisurely stroll through the Gardens of Versailles, a masterpiece of symmetry, perspective, and design. Wander among dancing fountains, manicured lawns, and hidden groves before discovering the more intimate world of the Trianon Palaces and Queen Marie Antoinette’s Hamlet, where the queen once retreated from courtly life in search of pastoral tranquility.
Return to Paris in the late afternoon for a relaxing evening at leisure. You may choose to dine al fresco, enjoy an optional evening cruise along the Seine, or simply savor the glow of Paris as the city’s lights illuminate its timeless beauty.
Dinner is on your own.
Overnight at Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or similar.
DAY 4: Farewell Paris
Savor your final morning in the City of Light with a leisurely breakfast at your hotel. Take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable memories of your Parisian escape, grand boulevards, elegant palaces, artistic treasures, and the timeless charm that makes Paris truly one of a kind.
At the scheduled time, meet your transportation for a smooth and seamless transfer to the airport. As you bid farewell to Paris, carry with you the essence of its beauty, culture, and romance, memories to be cherished until your next return.
Land Program Step by Step
The order of sites visited may vary to avoid congestion. Program times are approximate, given here for general reference purposes and subject to change. Itineraries with the up-to-date details will be issued when you are emailed your final cruise documents 21 days prior to sailing. Final itineraries with the most up to date details will be provided by the Destination Services Team once you board the ship. Please review your final itinerary carefully for any amendments.
The hotels used for your land program will be the hotels listed in this document unless you have been advised otherwise in advance of the land program start date.
DAY 1:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
9:00am Disembark and transfer from port to Paris hotel
12:30pm Lunch at a local Parisian bistro
2:30pm Drive to Hotel
3:00pm Arrive and check-in at Sofitel le Scribe hotel
Arrive back at the hotel, remainder of the evening at leisure
Dinner at leisure
Overnight Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or similar
DAY 2:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
AM Breakfast at your hotel
9:00am Panoramic tour of Paris: Eiffel Tower (photo stop), Champs-Élysées & Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame Cathedral (exterior visit), Montmartre & Sacré-Cœur
1:30pm Free time at leisure, lunch on your own
3:30pm Return to hotel; evening at leisure
Dinner on your own
Overnight Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or similar
DAY 3:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
AM Breakfast at your hotel
8:30am Depart for Versailles
9:30am Guided tour of the Palace of Versailles (Royal Apartments, Hall of Mirrors)
12:30pm Lunch at La Petite Venise or another restaurant within the Versailles grounds
2:00pm Guided walk through the Gardens of Versailles, including the fountains and groves
3:30pm Visit the Trianon Palaces and Queen’s Hamlet
5:00pm Return to Paris
Dinner on your own
Overnight Sofitel Le Scribe Paris Opéra or similar
DAY 4:
Timing Itinerary & Points of Interest
7:00am Breakfast at your hotel and check-out
10:00am Transfer to Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport according to your onward flights
General Information
Electricity:
France uses plug types C and E (two round pins). The standard voltage is 230V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Travelers from North America will need a plug adapter and, in some cases, a voltage converter for certain appliances. We recommend bringing a universal travel adaptor for your electronic devices.
Expected Weather:
In May and September, Paris and Versailles enjoy mild, pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing:
May: 50–70°F (10–21°C) – spring blooms and long daylight hours
September: 55–73°F (13–23°C) – comfortably warm with crisp evenings
What to Bring:
Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and a smart-casual outfit for dining or evening activities. A light jacket or sweater, umbrella, and sunscreen are also advised. Don’t forget your camera, as photo opportunities abound throughout Paris and Versailles.
Currency:
The local currency is the Euro (EUR). Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. It is recommended to carry some small cash for cafés, markets, and tipping.
Documents and Visa Requirements:
A passport valid for at least 6 months after travel is required. Guests are responsible for checking any visa requirements for their nationality for entry into France and for obtaining any necessary visas in advance. Please contact your local embassy or consulate for the latest entry requirements and application procedures.
Hotel Address & Contact:
Sofitel Le Scribe
1 Rue Scribe, 75009 Paris, France
Telephone: +33 1 44 71 24 24
Please Note: In the event of unforeseen circumstances, an alternative hotel may be arranged. Any substitute accommodation will match the original in both rating and quality. You will be informed of any changes prior to your departure. If no such notification is provided, your stay will proceed at the hotel specified in this program.
Program Includes:
•3 nights at the Sofitel Le Scribe Hotel (Deluxe Room)
•Meals as per itinerary
•Transfers as per itinerary
•English-speaking assistants and guides as per itinerary
•Versailles entrance
Program Excludes:
•Any other meals or beverages not listed above
•Hotel incidentals including mini bar, room service and laundry
•Visa if required
•Gratuities for drivers and guides
Please Note: Guests booking their own flights (independent of the cruise line) are responsible for ensuring that the cruise line has the updated arrival information, so your transfer can be arranged. If you book additional nights independently of the cruise line, an arrival transfer is not provided. If we do not receive flight details a minimum of 14 days in advance, transfers will not be provided. If you have booked Extra-Nights independently, transfers will not be provided.
Hints & Restrictions
•Walking is on cobblestone streets with uneven surfaces and gentle inclines. While no extended stair climbing is required, sites visited may present challenges for guests with limited mobility. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters may have restricted access in certain narrow streets and historic areas.
•This program includes periods of extended walking and standing. Guests must be able to independently board and disembark coaches, ferries, and other modes of transport. Those requiring assistance should travel with a companion.
•Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable flat walking shoes are strongly recommended.
•A visit to the Louvre Museum is not included in this program. Guests may choose to visit independently during leisure time, at their own expense, subject to ticket availability and museum opening hours. Guests wishing to spend additional time at the Louvre may consider arranging an additional night in Paris to allow for a full day dedicated to an independent visit.
Land programs that encompass multiple days ashore customarily include extensive and prolonged activity, while those of shorter durations typically have more moderate activity levels. However, each program varies, and participants should be prepared to negotiate a mixture of surfaces which may include: inclines, cobblestones, sand, and gravel or natural paths. There may also be a need to climb steps or stairs on occasion. This program is not recommended for guests who require the use of a wheelchair or mobility scooters. Guests with mobility concerns are advised to carefully assess their personal physical capabilities and stamina. Participants must be able to independently board and disembark from transportation, including motor coaches, and should be accompanied by an able-bodied companion if assistance is needed. Guests who choose to use independent transportation or wheelchair services provided by third-party companies may do so at their own risk and responsibility. We encourage guests to contact the cruise line in advance to discuss any specific mobility-related questions or concerns before booking this program. Weather appropriate clothing; hats; sunglasses; and flat, comfortable walking shoes are generally recommended.
Booking, Pricing & Cancelation:
All land programs are capacity controlled and subject to availability. Programs falling under the minimum number of required participants are subject to cancellation. Pricing listed is also subject to change to meet unexpected cost increases for transportation, land arrangements or currency fluctuations. Once purchased, pricing is guaranteed and not subject to change. Mid cruise overland programs must be purchased no later than 90 days prior to your sail date. Cancellations made within 90 days or less prior to the sail date are subject to 100% cancellation penalty. No refunds or partial refunds will be issued for any unused portion of the program. This includes, but is not limited to, missed transfers, accommodations, guided tours, meals, or activities. All venues, hotel stays, tour guides, and logistical services are secured and pre-paid well in advance to ensure a seamless experience for all participants.
