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Grand France Holiday

Grand France Holiday

About This Cruise

From north to south, enjoy the delightful blend of rustic charm and grandeur that France has perfected over the centuries—a contrast that lends an undeniable magic to the Noël season. Stroll down grand boulevards under canopies of trees wrapped in glittering lights, marvel at festively decorated chateaux in the countryside, and savor regional specialties—from Normandy cider to the famed "13 desserts" of a Provençal Christmas. Along the way, you'll find a few of France's own holiday markets—a tradition in a class of its own, utterly distinct from others you'll find across Europe—ranging from little "chalets" overflowing with local produce to beloved santon fairs that showcase meticulously hand-painted nativity miniatures.

Grand France Holiday is a combination of Magical Parisian Holiday and Rhone Winter Holiday.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

  • Solo travellers

    Low or no single supplement on selected cabins

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

S.S. Joie de Vivre

Departure Date

28 November 2028

Cruise Line

UNIWORLD Boutique River Cruises

Duration

14 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

France

Paris

Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

France

Mantes-la-Jolie

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out.

France

Rouen

Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious.

France

Caudebec-en-Caux

The Seine-Maritime is a breath of fresh air. An idyllic department tucked away between the Seine and France’s northwestern coastline, this area is replete with historic towns, seaports, and locals who are passionate about keeping the traditions of France alive.

France

Vernon

Fall even deeper in love with the Normandy countryside today. In addition to a visit Château de La Roche-Guyon, you can spend your day sipping on farm-fresh Normandy cider.

France

Paris

Embrace the holiday spirit as we ferry you around the best Christmas markets of Paris, where you’ll find delicious seasonal goodies and some excellent gifting opportunities waiting for you. Later, you’re in for a real treat: a private welcome to a beautiful château.

France

Paris

Today is all about the glamor that makes Paris Paris, as we honor Parisian shopping culture with a walking tour of the city’s famous seasonal window displays, complete with a visit to the opera house.

France

Lyon

You’ll transfer from the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre cruise ship in Paris to the striking S.S. Catherine in Lyon via high-speed TGV train for the second half of this fabulous grand tour. Once you’ve settled into your new home, you’ll have some time to explore delightful Lyon, which is nestled alongside the Saône River.

France

Lyon

A bastion of French culinary traditions, historic architecture, and culture, Lyon reigns as one of the greatest cities in all of France. It should come as no surprise, therefore, that its holiday traditions are so spectacular, with thousands of twinkling lights wrapping the city for a distinctive Christmas season display.

France

Valence

The capital of the Drôme, Valence invites you to enjoy a festive holiday visit in an attractive town wrapped in twinkling lights. You’ll be delighted to discover that Valence is a town with a strong culinary tradition, and the market vendors are prepared to prove it. Keep an eye out for local specialties: orange-blossom infused Suisse breads shaped to resemble Pope Pius VI's Swiss guards and sheets of tiny ravioli made with parsley and cheese known as Ravioles du Dauphiné.

France

Viviers

Drive from our dock in Viviers to the deeply Provençal city of Grignan, passing by eye-catching Renaissance-era estates and scenic countryside on the way. A sunny, almost Mediterranean destination during the summer, Grignan in the winter is often wrapped in an atmospheric fog, heightening the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time to a medieval village.

France

Avignon

The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. Visitors during the holiday season are treated to the cozy sight of festive decorations, shops overflowing with seasonal treats, and local vendors selling handmade wares that make excellent Christmas presents.

France

Tarascon

Tarascon is an arresting sight. The white stone buildings that proliferate throughout the town—including an eye-catching castle that sits right on the banks of the Rhône—catch the colors of the rising and setting sun beautifully.

France

Arles

Today, you’ll enjoy a full-day outing to one of the most festive winter destinations in the region: elegant Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll find beautifully decorated public squares and unique seasonal traditions.

France

Arles

Check out and disembark the ship this morning. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Marseille Provence Airport for your flight home.

Overview

From north to south, enjoy the delightful blend of rustic charm and grandeur that France has perfected over the centuries—a contrast that lends an undeniable magic to the Noël season. Stroll down grand boulevards under canopies of trees wrapped in glittering lights, marvel at festively decorated chateaux in the countryside, and savor regional specialties—from Normandy cider to the famed "13 desserts" of a Provençal Christmas. Along the way, you'll find a few of France's own holiday markets—a tradition in a class of its own, utterly distinct from others you'll find across Europe—ranging from little "chalets" overflowing with local produce to beloved santon fairs that showcase meticulously hand-painted nativity miniatures.

Grand France Holiday is a combination of Magical Parisian Holiday and Rhone Winter Holiday.

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Suite

Grand Suite

Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (410 sq ft - 38 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

The Grand Suite offers extra benefits, including a separate spacious living room, bathroom with a separate rain shower and tub, and secluded toilet and bidet area

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, and comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Butler service, such as packing and unpacking assistance, shoe shining, complimentary laundry service, and in-room breakfast delivery

In-room treats: fresh fruits and treats from your pastry chef delivered daily, a complimentary menu of specialty snacks and cocktails, Nespresso coffees and fine teas, a fully stocked mini bar, and a bottle of wine upon arrival

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Suite

Suite

Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (260 sq ft - 24 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Butler service, such as packing and unpacking assistance, shoe shining, complimentary laundry service, and in-room breakfast delivery

In-room treats: fresh fruits and treats from your pastry chef delivered daily, a complimentary menu of specialty snacks and cocktails, Nespresso coffees and fine teas, a fully stocked mini bar, and a bottle of wine upon arrival

Balcony

Deluxe French Balcony

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

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Balcony

French Balcony

Please note this category is only available for 2026 sailings.

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

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Balcony

French Balcony A

Please note this category is only available for 2027 & 2028 sailings.

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

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Balcony

French Balcony B

Please note this category is only available for 2027 & 2028 sailings.

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Outside

Classic

Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (162-180 sq ft - 15-17 sq m)

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Note: windows in these staterooms are situated at the water line

french

La Cave Des Vins

Lovers of French food and wine can experience an exclusive epicurean event in our onboard show kitchen. Under the guidance of Uniworld’s talented chef, prepare an exquisite seven-course meal. Then relish your creation with wine pairings designed just for you by our Sommelier. Simply ask our Concierge to reserve your spot. Bon appetit!

french

Le Bistrot

The ship's very own Parisian-style sidewalk café serves classic French cuisine. Designed with windows that lower for an open-air ambiance, Le Bistrot is a très bon spot to savor wrap-around views of the Seine.

regional

Le Restaurant Pigalle

Le Restaurant Pigalle is located on Balzac Deck.

room

24-Hour Room Service

Craving a bite in between breakfast, lunch or dinner? Inquire about 24-hour room service and à la carte menus. 

Bar

Claude's

Experience the magic each evening as Club L’Esprit transforms into Claude’s, a vibrant bar and entertainment venue. Claude’s glitzy and glamorous atmosphere is the perfect place to listen to local music, enjoy signature cocktails, or view a classic French film on select nights in an intimate cinema.

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Bar, Lounge

Salon Toulouse

Salon Toulouse can be found on Victor Hugo Deck

Reception

Information Desk

The Information Desk can be found on Balzac Deck.

Reception, Atrium

Reception

Reception can be found on Balzac Deck.

Spa

Serenity River Spa™

Relax at the Serenity River Spa™ with a soothing facial or massage treatment.

Exercise Class, Wellness, Yoga

Wellness on the Water™

Start your day with sunrise yoga on the top deck, a TRX® Suspension Training class, or work out at your own pace in the well-equipped fitness center.
Spa, Pool, Yoga

Club L'Esprit

Relax and indulge your mind, body and soul at Club L’Esprit, our onboard spa and wellness centre. Pamper yourself with an array of beauty and well-being treatments. Unwind with yoga. Work out in the resistance pool. Get your heart pumping in the onboard fitness centre. Afterwards, refresh and recharge with a deliciously good-for-you smoothie at the L’Espirit Bar. 

Gym

Fitness Centre

The Fitness Centre Spa can be found on the Victor Hugo Deck.

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The Generations Collection

Share the joys of river cruising with the entire family.

Find out more here.