Be enamoured by Rouen with the town’s vibrant blend of history and culture punctuated by the spires of Gothic churches, inviting town squares, and world-class museums. Wander through the alleyways to absorb the rich history which is displayed by the beautifully restored buildings and landmarks. From the famous gold-gilded Gros Horloge clock to the intricately decorated cathedral, Rouen has a rich and diverse history dating from the Vikings to the life and works of Claude Monet.

A true highlight of a visit to the fascinating town of Rouen is to discover more about its Viking era and medieval past and learn how the Viking raiders made Rouen their capital. A guided tour of Rouen with a knowledgeable local guide dressed authentically as Rollo the Viking is the best way to be fully immersed in the true history of the town. Take in the incredible surroundings as you discover more about the Viking warlord and his captivating past.

As you saunter through the old town and cross bustling squares, visit Place du Vieux-Marche. Lined with beautiful half-timbered buildings and buzzing with tourists, this square now houses a large cross and church devoted to Joan of Arc, who was burnt at the stake in this very location in 1431. The legacy of Joan of Arc lives on in this square and throughout the town itself, with her depiction on stained glass windows, sweet treats named after the heroine’s tears (Les larmes de Jeanne d’Arc), and even the church’s roof tiles shaped to represent the flames that lead to her tragic demise.

ABOVE: Walking Tour, Rouen, France

The idyllic coastal town of Honfleur has captured the imaginations of countless artists throughout the years, with its pastel-coloured buildings, timber-clad houses, and cobbled streets. This nautical town also boasts the Church of Saint-Catherine, dating back to the 15th century, and is France’s largest church to be made entirely of wood with a separate belfry.

Your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship is one of very few that can dock right in the heart of this seaside resort, so you’ll be just a stone’s throw away from its hidden gems and must-see highlights.

Art lovers will relish the old-world atmosphere and the town’s winding side streets – having influenced world-famous artists for centuries, while military historians will walk in the footsteps of troops during an excursion to the Normandy Beaches. Visit the very location of the D-Day landings to learn of the turbulent history of World War II and how these shores became the setting for the fight for freedom.

6 June 2024 marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, the largest amphibious operation in history, leading to the liberation of France and Western Europe from Nazi occupation. The now tranquil shores of Normandy are the very location where 156,000 Allied forces and 7,000 boats stormed the coastline in 1944, beginning six weeks of fighting and significant losses.

Also known as Operation Overlord, the landings were the product of meticulous planning from the Allies, involving considerable military deception and had even been organised around the phase of the moon, the tides, and the weather. This anniversary offers a poignant reminder of the sacrifice and resilience that has led to the liberation of Europe and has shaped the modern world.

Although special events will be limited to dignitaries on the day of the anniversary, 2024 will be the most significant year to visit this location. Take a walk along the vast beaches which stretch across 50 miles of the coast of Normandy and stand in the exact spot where history was made almost a century ago. The beaches were given code names in the operation and are still known by these names today: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno, and Sword.

As you stroll along the coastline and admire the peaceful beauty of the beaches, there are many memorials littered across the sandy shores. German bunkers, gun batteries and other artefacts pose as a reminder of the intense fighting that occurred and offer a different perspective to the now serene atmosphere.

ABOVE: Honfleur, Normandy, France

The allure of Paris is truly undeniable, from the romantic atmosphere as you stand in front of the Eiffel Tower, to the vibrant and fashionable Champs-Élysées, a new experience awaits down every bustling street. There is no better time to visit the stunning capital than in 2024, as Paris will be at the centre of the world stage as it hosts the Summer Olympic Games for the third time.

Dating back around 3000 years, the games have not only become a spectacle of sporting excellence but a showstopping celebration of culture and tradition, portrayed by the host nation through colourful and lively opening and closing ceremonies.

From late July to mid-August, Paris will become a mélange of various nationalities and cultures from across the globe as the world comes together to root for their countries and favourite sporting heroes. Not only will spectators marvel at the talent of these athletes, but the innovative idea behind the games is to take sports out of the stadiums and host these around the iconic landmarks of Paris and France. Enjoy watching volleyball with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop, fencing at the Grand Palais, and equestrian events at the magnificent Palace of Versailles*.

The sporting spectacle is believed to be the “biggest event ever in France”, with the opening ceremony alone estimated to attract around 600,000 spectators along the banks of the Seine all celebrating the 10,000 global athletes as they are ferried on boats from Pont d'Austerlitz to Pont d'Iêna.

ABOVE: Eiffel Tower, Paris