Sensations of Lyon and Provence River Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 – 2: Lyon
Welcome to France and Lyon, a historic city situated halfway between Paris and the Côte d’Azur, at the confluence of the beautiful Rhône and Saône rivers. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to the luxurious surrounds of your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board. Later, enjoy dinner on board with your fellow guests.
As one of the largest cities in France and a former Roman capital, many of the most important moments in French history have taken place in Lyon. But it’s Lyonnaise cuisine that has really put this city on the map, delighting gastronomists from around the world. Join your local guide for a walking tour of the city, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. If you’re feeling more active, then you may instead choose to embark on a guided bike tour, touching on its most prominent architectural wonders and moments from history.
Day 3 : Mâcon
Relax as you cruise along the Sâone river until you reach the lovely town of Mâcon. This could be a good time to explore what your Emerald Star-Ship has to offer, such as the Sun Deck, putting green and indoor swimming pool with retractable rooftop. Founded by the Celts and developed by the Romans, Mâcon is at the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The extensive planting of Gamay grapes makes Beaujolais one of just a few regions on the planet to focus on a single grape variety. It is worth noting that red wine accounts for 99% of its total wine production.
Day 4 : Tournon
Today, you’ll arrive in Tournon, a charming village that borders the gently meandering Rhône. Picturesque Tournon is dominated by a 16th-century castle that overlooks the village and several iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers and impressive Roman relics.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon with wine tasting
Led by an expert local guide, enjoy a walking tour that highlights the village’s intangible cultural heritage. You’ll also learn about the area’s rich history of viticulture and enjoy a special wine tasting of the local varieties.
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards
Alternatively, for those feeling more active, join a guided hike through the verdant local vineyards. As you take in the bucolic splendour that surrounds you, marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes that are selected to produce some of the finest wines in Europe.
Day 5 : Viviers
Welcome to Viviers, a small walled village in southern France that dates back to ancient Roman times. This delightful village is best known for its impressive medieval cathedral – one of the oldest in France – as well as romantic views across the beautiful Rhône River.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers
Today, your included walking tour with a local guide through charming Viviers will highlight many of the village’s striking monuments, distinctive for their ornate windows and lavish façades.
DiscoverMORE
Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)
Embark on a transformative journey as you delve into the fascinating Caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, an awe-inspiring testament to the indomitable spirit of human creativity. Let the luminosity of knowledge guide your steps as you traverse this cavernous expanse. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide who breathes life into the ancient canvases that adorn the largest decorated cave replica in the world.
Day 6 : Avignon
Set along the banks of the Rhône River in the celebrated region of Provence, the fortified city of Avignon bears a rich and illustrious history – from Celtic beginnings to the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. This legacy is evident today in the massive Palais des Papes (Popes’ Palace), which is surrounded by medieval stone ramparts and an assortment of grand palaces and courtyards. Avignon also played a significant role in the nation-defining French Revolution during the late 18th century.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon with market visit
Discover the charm of Avignon on a guided walk through its historic streets, from medieval ramparts to lively local squares. Today’s walk leads you into the vibrant Les Halles d’Avignon, the city’s covered market, where colourful stalls and Provençal aromas capture the spirit of southern France. Learn about regional traditions, daily life, and the city’s rich heritage as your guide brings Avignon’s stories to life. Enjoy a delightful immersion in the culture and evocative atmosphere at the heart of Provence.
EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef, Fabien Morreale
This evening, you’ll enjoy an exclusive Provençal dining experience on board your Emerald Star-Ship, expertly prepared by France’s Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. This celebrated French chef will prepare a special Provençal dinner menu just for you to enjoy and savour the authentic flavours of the gastronomic region of Provence, paired with fine wines.
EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon
After your exclusive Provençal dinner, later this evening, you’re invited to another unforgettable experience: an exclusive classical concert performed within the halls of one of the ancient churches in Avignon.
DiscoverMORE
Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
At the heart of Provence, the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard Aqueduct presents one of humankind’s great masterpieces. Technically and architecturally impressive, this three-level Roman aqueduct served as an aqueduct until the 6th century A.D., transporting thousands of gallons of water per day. Later, it was used as a toll gate before transforming into a road bridge. On this fascinating guided tour, you’ll also visit the small Roman town of Uzès. Explore the circular streets that once protected the medieval castle and sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine in the local restaurants.
DiscoverMORE
Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
Enjoy sampling some of the local wines during a private tasting within the delightful village of Chateauneuf du Pape, known for its fine red wines, storied viticulture and charming medieval lanes.
Day 7 : Arles
The glorious past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who liberally peppered the city with iconic monuments that are still clearly evident today.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
Today, your included tour of this city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries. Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh; some of his legendary artwork was inspired by the dazzling beauty of the surrounding area.
DiscoverMORE
In the footsteps of Van Gogh with a painting workshop (extra expense)
Follow in the footsteps of celebrated artist Vincent van Gogh as you explore the beautiful landscapes that inspired his iconic works. Afterwards, take part in a painting workshop, where you’ll try your hand at recreating the vibrant scenes that captured the artist’s imagination. You’ll get to keep your own masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s legacy and then take this home as a unique souvenir to keep.
DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)
Set at the heart of the Alpilles regional country park, the World Heritage-listed Les Baux de Provence is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Situated at a fortified rocky site between Arles and St. Remy-de-Provence, explore the Old Village with its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval stone buildings. Compact and brimming with shops and restaurants, the village retains a traditional lifestyle while being regarded as an outstanding attraction. The high, rocky pinnacle of Château-Fortress des Baux extends to the southwest of the village and reveals incredible views from the hilltop.
Day 8: Nice – Arles
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside, exceptional gastronomic and world-famous wines.
Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
