Paris, dream shop windows, Christmas markets and discovery of Notre-Dame (port-to-port cruise)

You'll board our ship at 6 p.m. Enjoy a quintessential evening of French Titi Parisian entertainment—straight out of novels by Dumas or Hugo.

Included excursion: A panoramic tour of France's capital bringing you to the must-see historical monuments and the famous large department stores such as Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann. Each year since 1909, famous decorators show off their talents at Paris' largest department stores. Voyage through the magic surrounding Christmas with animated figures in captivating settings. Your tour guide will explain the fascinating history of these large department stores and their magnificent art deco embellishments, which have themselves become must-see sites in the city. Their architectural features—combining art nouveau, contemporary, and art deco styles—are considered museum-level masterpieces. Domes, glass ceilings, majestic staircases, and mosaics give extraordinary grandeur to these shop-until-you-drop havens.

Included excursion: Notre-Dame Cathedral of Paris(3). This emblematic masterpiece of Gothic architecture and true symbol of the French capital welcomes you for an afternoon visit. Recently restored following the 2019 fire, you will have the opportunity to explore the cathedral at your own pace and discover the extraordinary history of this monument, shaped by nearly nine centuries of history. Before your visit, a guide will provide an introduction on the cathedral square. You will then visit the cathedral independently and at your leisure.

Tonight is our festive gala evening. Our ship will cruise to La Defense.(2) In the 1960s, then-president Charles de Gaulle helped develop the impressive futuristic business district known as La Defense. The imposing glass and steel structures form the largest business district in Europe.

We'll return to the Quai de Grenelle.(2)

Included excursion: Guided tour of old-time Montmartre and a stroll through its charming Christmas market. The Sacré-Coeur Basilica provides a breathtaking view of the city and the quaint quarter that remains a favorite hangout for modern-day painters, sculptors, and poets. Montmartre—with its cobblestone streets, sidewalk cafés, and cabarets—is authentic Paris straight out of the 19th century. In December, the Place des Abbesses transforms into a marvelous Christmas market decked out with lights and decorations to the highest degree. French holiday fare and treats abound!

Enjoy some free time in the afternoon. Just a few steps away: Roam the Eiffel Tower area, stroll through the Trocadéro, and visit Les Invalides. This is the time to find original gifts, drink a hot chocolate, enjoy some authentic gingerbread, and just let yourself bask in the approaching holiday ambiance.

We'll return on board the ship. We'll set out on a night-time cruise through the most famous capital in the world.(2) See the city's beautiful monuments bathed in superb lights, one after the other. An absolutely stunning moment.

Enjoy breakfast on board this morning before disembarking at 9:00 a.m.