Discovering Parisian Charm to Normandy's Legacy On The Seine River

Having recently sailed with AMA Waterways on their Paris to Normandy itinerary, I can confidently say this was one of the most enriching and memorable travel experiences I’ve had. Travelling with my 24-year old daughter made the trip even more special, as it was a wonderful opportunity for us to bond over shared interests and create memories. 
This itinerary is ideal for a mother-daughter getaway because it offers something for everyone.  My daughter and I both loved the seamless mix of cultural exploration, history and relaxation. From strolling through quaint little seaside villages to wandering the streets of Le Marais and Montmartre, there were many moments to connect and enjoy each other’s company

Before embarking on the cruise, we opted for the AMA Waterways pre-cruise package, which gave us the perfect opportunity to dive deeper into all that Paris has to offer in addition to the iconic sites such as the Louvre and the Eiffel Tower. This pre-cruise extension also made our transition to the river cruise feel seamless as this gave us time to ease into a new time zone. This extra time allowed us to explore two of the city's most vibrant and culturally rich neighborhoods, La Marais and Montmartre. 

Le Marais 

This charming district, known for its historic streets and bohemian vibe, was a highlight of our pre-cruise stay. We wandered through cobblestone alleys, admired 17th-century architecture, and visited Place des Vosges, the oldest planned square in Paris. Le Marais is also a haven for food lovers, and we indulged in pastries at local patisseries and tried some of the best falafel I’ve ever had.  

Montmartre 

Famous for its artistic legacy, Montmartre felt like stepping into a painting. We strolled through its winding streets, visited Sacré-Cœur Basilica with its panoramic views of the city, and enjoyed watching street artists in Place du Tertre. As a lover of art history, I was thrilled to see the places that inspired masters like Picasso and Van Gogh.  

Journey Along the Seine

Once onboard the Ama Lyra, the journey along the Seine offered a perfect blend of serene river views, charming towns, and meaningful excursions. Some of the standout stops included:  

Les Andelys

This quaint village is home to the dramatic Château Gaillard, built by Richard the Lionheart. Hiking up  to the castle ruins rewarded us with breathtaking views of the Seine and surrounding countryside—a perfect spot for photos and a moment of quiet reflection.  

Rouen

This lovely medieval city is full of history. From the stunning Gothic cathedral, famously captured in Monet’s series of paintings, to the Place du Vieux-Marché where Joan of Arc met her fate, Rouen truly brought history to life for me.

Honfleur

This picturesque coastal town was a delightful surprise. Known for its colorful harbor and half-timbered buildings, Honfleur is a haven for artists and photographers. Wandering the narrow streets and soaking in the charm of seaside town,was a highlight of the trip. For seafood lovers, it is a must to enjoy some oysters and mussels here.  

Normandy Beaches and Canadian Memorial

The visit to Normandy’s landing beaches was profoundly moving. At Juno Beach, we learned about the bravery of Canadian forces during the D-Day invasion, and the Canadian Cemetery was a deeply emotional experience, reflecting on the sacrifices made during World War II. The grounds were serene and beautifully maintained, offering a space for quiet reflection. Standing on the shores, and imagining the events of that day was humbling and unforgettable.  

Auvers-sur-Oise 

Once we sailed back to Paris, we had the opportunity to visit this quaint town just outside of Paris.  This is a must for art enthusiasts. This town is famously associated with Vincent van Gogh, who spent his final days here. Visiting the inn where he stayed, walking the same paths he painted, and seeing his grave alongside his brother Theo was both inspiring and poignant. 
 

Life On Board AmaLyra

The ship itself was intimate and luxurious, offering the perfect balance of comfort and elegance. Our stateroom had large windows that framed the Seine beautifully, and waking up to those views was magical.  Our cruise manager Kristina was spot on, always ensuring that all guests were well taken care of with everything we needed.  

The Sip and Sail each night on board was a great way to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail (or a mocktail) and connect with each other and other passengers to share stories from the day.  

We enjoyed delicious meals on board with menus inspired by French cuisine and paired with regional wines that perfectly complemented each meal. We also appreciated the wellness options, like yoga classes and biking excursions, led by our wellness host Giancarlo. This provided a great way to stay active while enjoying the scenery along the river.  

Who This Cruise Is For

Reflecting on my time aboard, this itinerary is perfect for a mother-daughter getaway as it truly offers something for every generation to enjoy. The variety of experiences made it easy for us to tailor the trip to our interests.  While I cherished the historical excursions like Rouen and Normandy, my daughter enjoyed the art-inspired visit to Auvers-sur-Oise.  This itinerary is also perfect for…

 

History Lovers: 
The deep dive into WWII history and medieval towns like Rouen and Les Andelys make this a dream trip for anyone passionate about history.  

Art Enthusiasts: 
With stops like Giverny and Auvers-sur-Oise, art lovers will find endless inspiration. 

 
Couples and Solo Travellers: 
Whether you’re sharing romantic moments in Paris or meeting like-minded travelers onboard, this cruise fosters connection.  

Nature Lovers:  
The Seine’s serene landscapes, rolling hills, and vibrant gardens are ideal for those who love picturesque settings.  

Why I’d Do It Again

This AMA Waterways itinerary reminded me why I love travel—effortless exploration paired with deep cultural immersion. The pre-cruise in Paris, the thoughtful excursions, and the stunning French countryside made this more than just a vacation; it was a memorable experience in so many ways.  

If you’re looking for a relaxing yet profoundly meaningful way to explore France, I can’t recommend this journey enough. It’s a perfect balance of luxury, education, and unforgettable memories.