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The Seine of the Impressionists: painting, culture and gastronomy
The Seine of the Impressionists: painting, culture
and gastronomy
The River Seine has played a key role in French history. From Paris, the city of lights, the Seine takes you to the wonderful Normandy coast, through an ever-changing landscape. Our Impressionist Seine cruise along the Seine River – the inspiration for many artists and painters – takes you on a journey through 19th century art. Travellers with a passion for literature, painting or colourful gardens will be dazzled by a voyage along the Seine.
From Paris to Honfleur: Monet to Van Gogh
Flowing through Paris, the river Seine offers a unique view of many parts of the city and takes travellers to the main Impressionist sites, such as the Marmottan museum, which houses the widest collection of paintings by Claude Monet.
After the magic of the capital, Normandy is a culturally rich region and also a destination for food lovers and people in search of picturesque landscapes. The Etretat Rocks, the subject of many paintings, immerse you in paintings by Eugène Boudin, Gustave Courbet, Eugène Delacroix or Gustave Loiseau. The Claude Monet Foundation in Giverny will let you explore the universe of the Impressionist master who one day said: "It took me time to understand my waterlilies. I had planted them for the pleasure of it; I grew them without ever thinking of painting them". The Chateau d’Auvers-sur-Oise is where you will be able to find out more about painters such as Daubigny, Pissarro, Cézanne, Van Gogh and Monet, through the recreated decors of 19th century Parisian life. The wonderful towns of Honfleur and Rouen are breathtaking, with original buildings that are the centre of Impressionist paintings. Normandy is also famous for its cheese and calvados, which will be a delight for travellers' tastebuds.
A cruise for food lovers
CroisiEurope takes great pride in creating typically French menus. During your Impressionist Cruise, you will enjoy tasty meals in tune with the fishing tradition of Honfleur and the local culinary tradition of Normandy. A chic evening dinner is also a highlight of your cruise.
The Seine River in 3 words
Reflection: the rich variety of the French landscape, architectural wonders and many local culinary flavours, with something to please culture buffs, photographers and food lovers.
Contrast: the winding Seine flows from the bustling French capital to tiny, quiet Norman villages - a great way to appreciate the varied French lifestyle.
Mythical: discover famous locations all referred to in great moments in French history, where art reflects the changes in society.
Learn more about the Seine Impressionist Cruise and find out about all our Seine Cruises.