Impressionist France

Bordeaux has long been known as La Belle au Bois Dormant, Sleeping Beauty.  And while the beauty part is undeniable, the sleeping part could be argued. Sure, the region is filled with treasures from long ago, including more than 350 historic monuments and buildings in the city alone. But the capital of Aquitaine is also home to a vibrant culture and, as oenophiles well know, is the gateway to some of France's most famous vineyards. In this UNESCO World Heritage city, 13th century cathedrals and 18th century palaces are commonplace. Venture beyond the city's borders to the chateaux of the Médoc region or to Saint-Émilion, a breathtaking medieval village set among the vineyards that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Follow the Garonne River and the expansive Gironde Estuary from the Atlantic Ocean into renowned wine country, sailing past the historic Cordouan Lighthouse rising from the sea and along the Médoc peninsula, where vineyard-covered hills, grand châteaux, and historic port towns line the banks.

La Rochelle is said to be the most lovely and unspoiled port city in France, and who are we to argue?  Two 14th century stone towers guard the gateway to the medieval core of the city, the Vieux Port. And this is a city that is focused on ships. You'll find yachts floating in the Port des Minimes, ships in the stained glass of church windows, maybe even decorating the arcaded walkways that line the streets. Learn the art of brandy making with a visit to the Cognac region and the Hennessy maisson, dating back to 1765. While walking past the aging barrels, inhale the heady aroma-the escaping vapors known as "the angels' share."

Find yourself on one of France's most beautiful islands with staggering cliffs, cheerful green country sides, jagged rocky coastlines, bright pastel houses and the bustling town of Le Palais. The island has been the inspiration for Flaubert and Dumas, Claude Monet and Matisse. And if you take a trek to Vauban's Citadel you'll quickly see why.

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Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city's ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant. 

Once notorious as the home of pirates, St.-Malo today is better known for the UNESCO site monastery and town of Mont St. Michel and the famous oysters of nearby Cancale. Walk the city's ramparts, or pass the time at a seaside boulangerie sampling a fresh and buttery croissant. 

This third largest port of Normandy is a small ship only port full of historical significance and is the gateway to the Normandy beaches of WWII. View the stunning former Benedictine monastery, the imposing Chateau de Caen built by William the Conqueror in 1060 and the Pegasus Bridge. Then take a walk in the Vaugueux District with its pedestrian-only street lined with shops and eateries.

Cruise the elegant Seine to or from Rouen through the heart of Normandy—an inland journey reserved for smaller ships. From the river, pass beneath the sweeping Pont de Normandie at the estuary, sail by the colorful waterfront of Honfleur, and continue inland past white chalk cliffs and pastoral countryside before Rouen’s cathedral spire rises into view above the riverbanks.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

This port city on the Seine River and gateway to Paris is full of beautiful architecture and is an art-lover’s delight. Museums are plentiful here including the Historial Jeanne d’Arc and the Musee des Beaux-Arts with the second-largest collection of Impressionist works in France. Stroll the many local markets full of fresh produce and flowers and dine at one of the incredible restaurants featuring fresh ingredients from this region.

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Sail the storied River Thames into or out of the heart of London, cruising beneath iconic Tower Bridge—a privilege only smaller ships can enjoy—and passing the Tower of London, the historic Royal Observatory at Greenwich marking the Prime Meridian, and the beautifully preserved Cutty Sark, the legendary 19th-century tea clipper. As you continue eastward, the skyline gradually gives way to the open waters of the English Channel.

London, one of the world's top destinations, is a city begging to be explored. Steeped in history, the well-known sites of Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, and Trafalgar Square beckon, or get a modern perspective from the top of the London Eye. This cosmopolitan city offers all the world cuisines you're used to, but there are still places to find traditional British fare like bangers and mash or shepherds' pie.