The Seine River

About the Seine
UNESCO Heritage Sites
Sail the Seine River from Paris to Normandy and Honfleur

Ports-of-Call on the Seine River

Here you can find a list of some of the more common river cruise ports along the Seine River as it flows through France.  These may be the most common, but there may be others that can be found on select river cruises.  Your River Cruise Artist can provide you with the full itinerary and all ports for any river cruise that you may be interested in, on any river cruise operator. Explore the Seine River further and learn more about it’s ports-of-call.

Caudebec-en-Caux

France

The historic and quaint town of Caudebec-en-Caux lies on the right bank of the River Seine about the halfway point between Rouen and Honfleur. Caudebec-en-Caux has some unique architectural sites that are worth a walk-by or interior visit while your Seine River cruise ship is in port. The Notre Dame Church is a magnificent gothic structure that is over-sized for this small town but offers visitors a unique look into the regional history. The stained-glass windows of this 15th century cathedral is inspiring. Also, don’t miss the Maison des Templiers or the Templer’s House. This 12th century building now houses a small museum of local history and archaeology. Or visit the nearby Fontenelle Abbey, the Benedictine Monastery founded in 649 AD near Caudebec-en-Caux.

Conflans

France

Just west of the suburbs of Paris lies Conflans-Sainte-Honorine or just Conflans, at the point where the Oise River and Seine River meet to head towards the English Channel. The Musée de la Batellerie will walk you through the rich history of inland waterways of the region, and adjacent Parc du Prieuré will inspire the gardener in you. Visit the medieval Église Saint-Maclou built in the 900’s or the Tower Montjoie to experience the deep history of this region.

Giverny

France

Giverny sits on the right bank of the River Seine at the confluence with the River Epte and has existed since the Neolithic times. The town today is most known for it’s relationship with the famous artist Claude Monet. He first noticed Giverny looking out of a train window and then made up his mind to move there. In 1890 he bought his desired house and land and set out to create the magnificent gardens he wanted to paint. Some of his most famous paintings were of his garden in Giverny, famous for its rectangular Clos Normand, with archways of climbing plants entwined around colored shrubs, and the water garden, formed by a tributary to the Epte, with the Japanese bridge. You won’t want to miss this unique artistic treasure as you cruise the River Seine.

Honfleur

France

Honfleur is often the turn-around point for Seine River cruises as it is the point where the river empties into the English Channel. Honfleur is most known for its historic and picturesque port with its houses featuring slate-covered frontages that have been painted many times by artists including Gustave Courbet, Eugène Boudin, and Claude Monet. The Sainte-Catherine church, a 15th century vaulted timber structure, which has a bell tower separate from the principal building, is the largest church made out of wood in France and worth a visit while in Honfleur. With so much to see in Honfleur just enjoy strolling the cobblestone streets to find treasures around every corner.

Les Andelys

France

As your Seine River cruise nears the town of Les Andelys, you are sure to first notice the imposing ruins of the medieval Château-Gaillard Castle above the limestone cliffs that seem to watch over the meandering River Seine. Les Andelys itself is a small riverfront town, but its rich history spans many centuries and is exhibited in many of the architecture found there. Visit some of the churches of Les Andelys including the Grand Andely Notre Dame Collegiate Church or the Petit Andely Saint Sauveur Church each with their own awe-inspiring stained-glass windows.

Normandy

France

Normandy is one of 18 regions of France that lies on the north coast with the English Channel and encompasses the western half of the River Seine. Although Normandy is not a port itself, you will be sure to visit numerous ports within Normandy on your Seine River cruise. But Normandy is perhaps best known for its significance during World War II. The beaches of Normandy were used by the Allies of Britain, Canada, Free France, and of course the United States, to invade German-held territory leading to a turning point in the war. During your time in Normandy you should take an excursion to visit the beaches, fortifications, and the cemetery that honors those that perished for freedom.

Paris

France

There is so much to see and experience in Paris, the capital of France, and the likely embarkation and disembarkation point of your Seine River cruise, it is difficult to know where to start. The history, art, culture, vibrancy, and cuisine of Paris abounds. Perhaps it is best to not miss the major sights if your time is short. The Louvre is an exciting option, along with a panoramic excursion to view sites like the Arc de Triomphe, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, the Sacre Coeur in Montmartre, or the narrow streets of the Latin Quarter. These are just a few of the options available and one could spend a week exploring this magnificent European capital.

Rouen

France

Beautiful Rouen, on the right bank of the Seine River, is the capital of the region of Normandy. Rouen used to be one of the largest and richest cities in Europe but has since been surpassed by many others. Rouen is known for its Notre Dame cathedral, with its Tour de Beurre or butter tower that was financed by the sale of indulgences for the consumption of butter during Lent. The cathedral’s gothic facade was the subject of a series of paintings by Claude Monet. Also, in Rouen, the Gros Horloge is an astronomical clock dating back to the 14th century located on Gros Horloge street. Other prominent sites include Rouen Castle, Church of Saint Ouen, the Palais de Justice, and the Gothic Church of St Maclou. This is perfect river cruise port to explore and enjoy the many quaint shops, cafés and parks.

Versailles

France

The French town of Versailles, a near suburb of the capital city Paris, is known for perhaps the most notable palace in the world – the Palace of Versailles. This magnificent palace was the principal residence of the Kings of France from Louis XIV in 1682 until the beginning of the French Revolution in 1789. The Palace features the ceremonial Hall of Mirrors, the jewel-like Opera theater, the royal apartments, and the vast French landscape garden with fountains, canals, and geometric flower beds and groves, laid out by Andre le Nôtre. This restored historic, artistic and architectural marvel is a favorite river cruise excursion from the Paris port on the River Seine.

Your Seine River Cruise Awaits!

Are you ready to start planning your Seine River Cruise Vacation Your Way? A River Cruise Artist at River Cruise Your Way is ready to be your vacation concierge. Contact us today at 1-800-259-7612 or use the form below and let us know when it is most convenient to call you, we will confirm via e-mail, and then reach out at the agreed upon time and date.