The Seine and France go hand in hand, a perfect pairing just like ham and a baguette. Stretching for 777 kilometres, the Seine flows from Dijon to Le Havre where it joins the English Channel. While it is most famous for passing through Paris, there are plenty of other cities and towns that lie on the riverbanks. The Seine is certainly full of well-known treasures and hidden gems in France!
Giverny
The village of Giverny is found in the picturesque Normandy region. Giverny is fascinating to visit at any time of year, with different flowers blooming in each season. In particular, the water lilies made famous by impressionist artist, Claude Monet, come to life in the height of summer (July – August). The small village is perfect for exploring – take your time visiting some of the small art galleries, cafés, or you can take the old railroad path which leads to Vernon.
Rouen
As the capital of the Normandy region, Rouen is a vibrant city with longstanding ties to Romans, Vikings and past English Kings. Victor Hugh once described Rouen as ‘the city of a hundred spires’ which matches its row of splendid churches found in the city’s centre. Other highlights include the Gros Horloge astronomical clock, lush parks and gardens and the Church of Saint Joan of Arc.
Le Havre
Translating to ‘the harbour’, Le Havre has always been an important port city for France. After being devastated by WWII bombing attacks in 1944, the city has been rebuilt in such an incredible way that it was awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2005! It now effortlessly shines as a modern city with the perfect touch of seaside thrown in there.
Auvers-sur-Oise
If Auvers-sur-Oise was inspiration enough for Vincent van Gogh, you know you’re onto a French gem. van Gogh lived, worked and is buried here with some of his iconic paintings like Church of Auvers-sur-Oise and Daubigny’s Garden from here. You can still visit the Notre Dame de l’Assomption today!
The Seine River abounds with well-known treasures and hidden gems. Take a look at our France and Seine river cruises on offer with Avalon Waterways.
