Day 1: We make our way from the UK to Paris with a stop en-route in Arras. Hosting one of the most beautiful French Christmas markets and also known for its architecture, culture and history, Arras is a popular tourist city. Home to fine food shops and cafes, as well as being surrounded by Flemish-Baroque-style town houses, a magnificent and enchanting scene awaits. We continue on to Paris before boarding the MS Botticelli early this evening. Before dinner we will enjoy a Captain’s welcome cocktail reception followed by a night of entertainment with a ‘Titi Parisien’ theme.
Day 2: We admire the city’s famous sights today with a guided tour of Paris by coach; you will discover the renowned attractions and highlights of this magnificent city. After lunch on-board there will be free time to visit Paris at your leisure. From iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, countless museums and historic sites Paris is a joy to explore. The enchanting Christmas lights of the Champs Elysées are a remarkable sight with over a million sparkling lights cover the 400 trees between the Place de Concorde and the Arc de Triomphe. Since we are docked just a few minutes’ walk from the Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro gardens, and Les Invalides is just a little further away, it’s straightforward to visit Paris from our ship. Back on board, we enjoy a 3- course dinner and an evening of dancing. Dependent on water levels, we may cruise to La Défense taking in the panoramic views of this beautiful city.
Day 3: Today we enjoy a guided visit of old Montmatre. Located at the very heart of a 19th century village, the Sacré-Coeur Basilica has remained one of the favourite models for all-time painters, sculptors and poets alike. After lunch on-board we enjoy further free time in Paris, perhaps for more sightseeing or maybe for some shopping. The aroma of chocolate waffles, crepes, and Vin Chaud fill the air throughout the multitude of Christmas Markets around the city. With chalets selling one-off gifts, gourmet specialities, hand-crafted wooden toys, and festive decorations you’ll be spoilt for choice. In contrast to the quaint traditional festive markets, designer boutiques and department stores overflow with luxury, full of lavish presents and adorned with opulent decorations. Back on board this evening we’ll enjoy a Gala dinner and, dependent on water levels, we will cruise through Paris at night floating through the beautifully illuminated city, delightfully attractive when viewed from our vantage point on the Seine.
Day 4:
This morning we enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking and making our return journey to the UK.