Tour Type:River Cruise Tour Duration:21 Days (20 Nights) From:Paris toMonte Carlo Tour Code:EURCPM21 Operator:APT
from AU $10,005 pp
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River Cruise Description
Flowing from the magnificent Swiss Alps and out to sea beyond the Netherlands, the Rhine sweeps through some of the most fascinating towns and beautiful rural regions in Europe. Explore Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, and delve into its past with a city tour. In Avignon, marvel at the grand 14th century edifices standing as testament to the city's historical significance.
Highlights of the Rhine
Flowing from the magnificent Swiss Alps and out to sea beyond the Netherlands,
the Rhine sweeps through some of the most fascinating towns and beautiful rural
regions in Europe. Wandering the streets of an historic city such as Cologne or
Worms, both contenders for the title of Germany’s oldest city, you’ll lose yourself
amid vibrant urban landscapes encompassing both the ancient and the new.
Cuisine & Culture along the Rhône
The treasures of the Rhône region are innumerable, so cruising along the river
itself is the perfect way to absorb the sights at a relaxed pace. Explore Lyon,
the gastronomic capital of France, and delve into its past with a city tour.
In Avignon, marvel at the grand 14th century edifices standing as testament
to the city’s historical significance. Your cruise either begins or culminates at
Arles, a Mediterranean city at the mouth of the Rhône delta which features
Roman monuments amongst its historical attractions.
Included Signature Experiences
Take in the lights of Paris during a dinner cruise on the Seine River, followed by a Paris Illuminations Tour
Visit a cheese factory for a tour and cheese tasting during your time in Gruyères, Switzerland
Visit a charming family-owned winery in the Beaujolais region for a guided tour and a tasting
In Grignan, head out in search of truffles with the dogs of a local truffle farm, then enjoy a tasting
Join a local guide for a private tour of the famous Casino de Monte -Carlo
APT Guaranteed Inclusions
Join an expert local guide for a unique cultural experience in up to 21 towns, villages and cities
Tailor your European discovery with a total of 42 included experiences on offer
Transfers, port charges & tipping included – saving you up to $1,770 per couple
Enjoy excursions and entertainment to the value of $2,150 per couple
Freedom of Choice Touring
Paris – enjoy a city tour; a cooking class; a photography tour; or visit Versailles
Amsterdam – take a guided canal boat cruise, visit the Van Gogh Museum; or tour the National Maritime Museum
Cochem – explore the town on a guided bicycle ride or a walking tour
Rüdesheim – visit a mu sical instrument museum; enjoy a winery visit; or ride a gondola over the Rhine Valley
Breisach – visit Colmar in France or explore the Black Forest in Germany
Lyon – enjoy a city tour or a French cooking demonstration
Vienne – enjoy a tour by mini-train or visit Chateau de Rousillion for a tour and a pottery demonstration
Tournon – enjoy a wine tour and tasting on Hermitage hill or visit a family-run goat farm at Boucieu-le-Roi
Avignon – tour the P alace of the Popes; or see the Pont du Gard and visit Uzès
Arles – visit Les Baux de Provence then explore a working olive mill and farm, or visit the olive farm then tour Saint Paul de Mausole Asylum aqueduct
Cruising Highlights
Cruise past castles, quaint villages and fertile fields along the River Rhine
Cruise through the magnificent Rhine Gorge, a World Heritage-listed site
Absorb the beautiful scenery of the Rhône River and Moselle River valleys
Outstanding Accommodation
Enjoy a three-night Grand City Stay in the French capital at the luxurious Hilton Arc de Triomphe
Enjoy 14 nights cruising on luxurious Aria River Ships
Stay in Deluxe Sea View Rooms at the at the Fairmont Monte Carlo during a three-night Grand City Stay
Arrive Paris
Be met on arrival in Paris and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy time at leisure, before tonight’s Welcome Reception with your APT Tour Director and fellow guests. Three Night Stay: Paris, Hilton Arc de Triomphe
Day 2
Paris, Freedom of Choice Touring
After breakfast, discover the sights and attractions of the French capital as you choose. Perhaps embark on a city sightseeing tour that includes the Avenue des Champs Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe as well as trip to the second level of the Eiffel Tower, where you’ll enjoy amazing views out over Paris. You may instead like to take part in a cooking class focusing on delectable French cuisine, or learn how to take the perfect picture of Paris during a photography tour. Alternatively, perhaps set off on a half-day excursion to the historic Palace of Versailles . This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner cruise along the Seine River followed by a Paris Illuminations Tour. Discover why Paris is known as the City of Light and learn about its intriguing history as you tour the boulevards with their animated cafés and brilliantly illuminated monuments and squares. (B/D)
Day 3
Paris at Leisure Today is yours to enjoy at leisure, relaxing or exploring Paris independently. Perhaps stroll along the boutique-lined boulevards, sip café au lait in the Latin Quarter, explore the world-famous boutiques or go for a wander along Rue Mouffetard, the city’s most lively market street. This evening, you may like to visit the famous Moulin Rouge, the historic cabaret and birthplace of the can-can (own expense). (B)
Day 4
Paris, Amsterdam, Embark
After breakfast, travel by coach across France, through Belgium and on to Amsterdam in the Netherlands. Here, Board your luxury river ship then, after dinner, perhaps step out to experience Amsterdam’s famous nightlife at your leisure. Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the MS Amacello (B/D)
Day 5
Amsterdam, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today, visit the Van Gogh Museum or take a canal cruise and admire the city's wonderful architecture from a glass-top boat . Alternatively, tour the National Maritime Museum, offering a look at the Netherlands’ centuries-long tie to the sea. After your activity, travel via the windmill depicted in Rembrandt’s famous 1641 etching then rejoin your ship and set off cruising along the Rhine. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Gala Wel come Dinner. (B/L/D)
Day 6
Cologne, Koblenz
This morning join a local guide for a tour of Cologne, Germany’s fourth-largest city. Among other attractions, see the city’s cathedral, once the world’s tallest building. Then re-board your ship for lunch and an afternoon of cruising along the Rhine to the 2,000 year-old city of Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle. After dinner, perhaps step out for a pleasant evening stroll around this charming city. (B/L/D)
Day 7
Cochem, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today you'll disembark in the German town of Cochem, possibly the prettiest town in the beautiful Moselle Valley. Explore the town on either walking tour or a guided bicycle ride. Afterwards, enjoy a visit to Reichsburg Cochem, a castle that's perched on a hill overlooking the town. Take in the beautiful sweeping views out over the river then return to your ship before it sets off cruising back up the Moselle River, a winding and picturesque waterway. Absorb the scenery of the spectacular Moselle Valley as you pass landscapes of lush vineyards and rolling hills. (B/L/D)
Day 8
Rüdesheim, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today cruise through the Rhine Gorge on what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine. On arrival in Rüdesheim, perhaps board the Winzerexpress mini-train and travel to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum for a tour. Alternatively, take a ride in a gondola for views over the Rhine Valley, or visit a local winery where you'll enjoy a tour and tasting. (B/L/D)
Day 9
Speyer
Disembark your ship this morning for a brief sightseeing tour of Speyer, one of Germany's oldest cities. Afterwards, travel to Europe’s largest private technology museum, the Technik Museum Speyer, which is spread over more than 30,000 square metres of indoor and outdoor space and features more than 3,000 exhibits from all different areas of technological history. (B/L/D)
Day 10
Breisach, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today in Breisach, choose from two options. The first, an excursion to the Black Forest in Germany, will take you by coach through a lovely scenic forested area, past a number of lakes as well as several brilliant examples of rural German architecture. You'll also visit a quaint little cuckoo clock factory before returning to your ship. Your second option is a trip to the medieval city of Colmar, located on the Alsatian Wine Route. During a tour here, see half-timbered framed houses; the German-influenced old quarter; the Launch River and more. You'll also enjoy a wine cellar visit and wine tasting. With both groups back on board, your ship departs for Switzerland. (B/L/D)
Day 11
Basel, Disembark Ship, Lyon, Embark Ship
Disembark the MS AmACello for the last time in Basel, set at the crossroads of Germany, Switzerland and France. Long an important university, banking and trade centre, Basel’s past is still evident in its medieval town hall and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. After a tour, travel to the medieval cheese-making town of Gruyères. On arrival, visit a cheese factory for a tour and a tasting of the delicious, richly-flavoured cheese that makes the town so famous. After, continue to Lake Geneva, where you'll stop to absorb some truly breathtaking views. Later, arrive in Lyon and board APT’s MS AmaDagio . Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the MS AmaDagio (B/D)
Day 12
Lyon, Freedom of Choice Touring, Trévoux
Today presents you with the unique opportunity to experience Lyon, considered to be the gastronomic centre of France. Perhaps take a city tour or enjoy a cooking demonstration, showcasing the fine art of preparing French cuisine. After lunch, your ship will cruise along the pretty Saône River and you'll enjoy an onboard demonstration of silk-making. On arrival in the historic town of Trévoux, a tour includes a private walk through the Hotel de Ville (Town Hall). (B/L/D)
Day 13
Trévoux, Beaujolais Region,Vienne
This morning’s tour will take you through the Beaujolais wine region, the Pays d’Or or 'land of the golden stones' – named for the ochre limestone of its homes and castles. After visiting the medieval hilltop village of Oingt, head to Pascal Gayot’s Domaine de la Logère, a family-owned and run winery. Here, a member of the family will take you on a tour, explain the history of the winery, introduce you to the age-old traditions they employ and host a wine tasting. Afterwards, return to your ship, which will cruise onto the Rhône River, heading for Vienne. (B/L/D)
Day 14
Vienne, Freedom of Choice Touring, Tournon
Set between the famed regions of Burgundy and Beaujolais, Vienne's strong Roman history is highlighted by its well-preserved ruins. After breakfast, take a mini-train tour, during which you’ll see the Roman Temple of Augustus and the medieval churches of St Andre-Le-Bas and Abbey St Pierre. Alternatively, travel to Chateau de Rousillion, an imposing castle, for a tour of the interior courtyard and its rooms. After, enjoy a pottery demonstration then return to your ship for lunch. With both groups back on board, cruise to Tournon and Tain L’Hermitage, towns that face each other across the Rhône. (B/L/D)
Day 15
Tournon, Freedom of Choice Touring, Viviers
This morning, visit a local vineyard on Hermitage hill for a walk among the vines as a specialist explains the wines of the region. After a wine tasting, return to your ship. Alternatively, travel by coach into the Ardèche Mountains and on to Boucieu-le-Roi. Here, enjoy a tour of a family-run goat farm, followed by the chance to sample goat’s cheese. Then, after re-boarding your ship for lunch, you'll set out for Viviers. After dinner enjoy a ‘ghost walk’ through the largely abandoned medieval town or stay on board for a nougat-making demonstration. (B/L/D)
Day 16
Viviers, Grignan, Avignon, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today begins with a trip to Grignan, perched upon a hill and surrounded by lavender fields. Here, visit a truffle farm for an insight into this unique industry. Head out with the dogs in search of truffles then enjoy a tasting of these delicacies. After, cruise to Avignon, where you may like to take a tour through the narrow streets and elegant squares to the Palace of the Popes. Alternatively, visit the Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct, before time at leisure in Uzès. (B/L/D)
Day 17
Avignon, Arles, Freedom of Choice Touring
From Arles, perhaps head to Les Baux de Provence for a tour of the castle and free time. Then visit Moulin du Calanquet, an olive mill and farm in Saint-Rémy de Provence. Discover the Provençal tradition of olive growing during a tour and tasting. Or tour the olive farm first then visit Saint Paul de Mausole Asylum, where Van Gogh, spent many of his latter years. After your activity, see a number of Arles' Roman relics that are collectively listed as World Heritage sites. Back on board, tonight take part in the Captain's Farewell Dinner. (B/L/D)
Day 18
Arles, Disembark Ship, Cannes, Nice, Monte Carlo
Disembark today for the final time in Arles. Then, Travel via Cannes to Nice, where you’ll stop for a guided sightseeing tour. Later this afternoon, arrive in Monte Carlo. Three Night Stay: The Fairmont Monte Carlo, Deluxe Sea View Rooms (B)
Day 19
Monte Carlo Sightseeing
On a tour of Monte Carlo, explore the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, official residence of the Prince of Monaco, and venture in to the lavish State Apartments, which feature 15th-century frescoes and many spectacular rooms. Then head to the Casino de Monte-Carlo, one of the world’s first major casinos, for a private tour. The rest of today is then yours at leisure. (B)
Day 20
Monte Carlo at Leisure
Enjoy an entire day at leisure in Monte Carlo today. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner on the terrace of a restaurant offering beautiful views out over the Mediterranean Sea. (B/D)
Day 21
Depart Monte Carlo
This morning after breakfast, return to the lovely city of Nice, where your tour ends with a transfer to the airport. (B)
Itinerary is based on 2013 departures. Click on the icon if you would like to view an electronic version of the brochure online. 2012 itinerary may differ from above.
River Cruise Prices
Cruise prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.
EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*
2012/13 APT River Cruise Sale! Save up to $2,160 per couple PLUS add APT's own Superdeal Savings! Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month to apply!
Subject to availability at the time of booking.
Note:
All departures above are guaranteed to depart. Single prices available, please request.
We will check the availability of your departure in your quote along with all applicable cruise specials.
2012 Fly FREE November Departures
Fly FREE Including Taxes on all November Departures - All Categories
Guaranteed lowest prices in Australia! We will combine the Fly FREE APT deal below & OUR PRICE to your quote. Terms & Conditions apply.
Note:
All departures above are guaranteed to depart. Single prices available, please request.
We will check the availability of your departure in your quote along with all applicable cruise specials.
2012 Fly FREE November Departures
Fly FREE Including Taxes on all November Departures - All Categories
Guaranteed lowest prices in Australia! We will combine the Fly FREE APT deal below & OUR PRICE to your quote. Terms & Conditions apply.
The information below relates to this itinerary only.
Tour Operator: APT
APT holidays are designed for the premium end of the market and offer quality, first-class experiences. Each holiday presents a mix of cultural activities, luxurious accommodation, world-class dining and more. Many of APT's holidays, include their innovative Freedom Concept™ which allows travellers to choose from a range of touring and dining options. Further, all holidays are operated by a dedicated team of professionals, who ensure each holiday is as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.
We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on APT including FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on their 'Touring Styles', and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their cruises. Read more> (Note: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).
As market leaders, our resources, experience, passion, expertise and proven track record ensure that we're the most reliable cruise operator on Europe's waterways. With a 98% satisfaction rating, and having launched all of our ships on schedule, there's no company more reliable or trustworthy than APT. We promise we'll continue to set the amazing standards for which we are known, making your choice easy. Put simply, APT are Australia and New Zealand's true European river cruising experts.
Travel documents, including your travel kit (with luggage labels, ticket wallet, personalised itinerary, touring information and travel bag), are sent approximately two to three weeks prior to departure from your home country, provided full payment has been received.
Each of our state-of-the-art ships was designed with our valued travellers in mind. Our operation allows us total control in delivering the standards for which we are famous. And with eight ships cruising in 2012 we are able to offer more cruising routes, ships and departures than most other companies. Custom-designed and built in Holland by the world's foremost ship building experts, APT's European river ships signify the evolution of modern river cruising. From the intricate elegance of the interior appointments and the opulence of the suites to the wealth of recreational choice provided in the vessel's public areas, these river ships are truly the finest on Europe's waters. You can find more information on individual ships here. (Note: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).
On an APT Platinum Sailing, you'll enjoy special
features and inclusions that will enhance what is
already an amazing holiday experience. You'll feel
as though several elements of the cruise have been
designed specifically to meet your own individual
interests and expectations, and you'll travel with
like-minded APT guests. Throughout our itinerary pages, our special
APT Platinum Sailings departures are indicated by this logo. Read more> (Note: This link will NOT take you away from this tour itinerary page).
All meals are prepared by European chefs and consist
of European-style food that has been adjusted for our passengers.
On board, enjoy a full buffet breakfast in the restaurant. Lunch
offers salads, soups, a choice of mains and dessert. Dinner is
a multi-course meal with a selection of mains. Coffee and tea are available free of charge throughout
the day and during meals. Water on board the ships is drinkable.
Wine, soft drinks or beer are included with dinner on board. All meals on board are included. Meals are served in the
dining room in a single sitting. Open seating allows you to sit
at different tables if you wish to meet other fellow passengers.
Handicapped facilities on board are limited. River cruise vessels
are not equipped with wheelchair ramps and hallways and doors
may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Ships are
equipped with an elevator but it does not access all decks (apart
from the Sound of Music with no elevator onboard). Additionally,
motorcoaches and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions
may not be equipped with wheelchair ramps. Any condition requiring
special attention must be reported to APT at the time of booking.
Facilities and services for passengers with disabilities differ among
destinations and, in some cases, may be limited or non-existent.
Participants requiring special assistance must be accompanied by a
person responsible for and physically able to provide such assistance.
Transfers and shore excursions follow a predetermined timetable
and thus participants should have no physical impairment(s) that
would affect the time schedules or interfere with the rights of other
passengers on their holiday. Without limitation, APT and its affiliates
are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers,
cruise vessels, hotels, lodges, coaches, local guides, operators
or other independent suppliers.
For your convenience, all purchases and paid services on board
are billed with a guest check and added to your shipboard account.
At the end of the cruise, you will receive a total, which can be paid
with cash or credit card. The ships do not accept payments made
by Diners Club cards. The onboard currency is the Euro.
Solo travellers pay only a 50% single supplement on all suite categories from E to P+ on European River Crusies. On Exclusive Sailings we will match up those who are willing to share a suite with another single traveller of the same gender, so you don't have to pay the single supplement. If no match is found then single supplements apply.
Arrival & Departure Information
Prebooked Transfers
All APT clients travelling on an Exclusive Sailing or Exclusive land
tours receive a transfer on the first and last day of the tour. This will
be from the airport to/from either the ship or tour hotel. A transfer
is not included, though may be purchased, should you be arriving
or departing on days other than the first and last day of touring.
These additional transfers are only applicable when your
pre and/or post tour arrangements are booked with Global Journeys & APT.
On Your Own Transfers
If you have not arranged an arrival transfer with Global Journeys, make your own way
to the ship or hotel with the help of the information provided in your itinerary. If you have independent travel arrangements
prior to your APT tour and do not have an APT transfer, the Tourist
Information office at your arrival city will be able to offer assistance
with directions to the ship or hotel. If you transfer to the ship on
your own, we recommend you call the ship prior to confirm the
ships docking location.
The APT Europe Office is available in case of an emergency.
APT holidays are designed for the premium end of the market and offer quality, first-class experiences. Each holiday presents a mix of cultural activities, luxurious accommodation, world-class dining and more. Many of APT's holidays, include their innovative Freedom Concept™ which allows travellers to choose from a range of touring and dining options. Further, all holidays are operated by a dedicated team of professionals, who ensure each holiday is as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.
Each of our state-of-the-art ships was designed with our valued travellers in mind. Our operation allows us total control in delivering the standards for which we are famous. And with eight ships cruising in 2012 we are able to offer more cruising routes, ships and departures than most other companies. Custom-designed and built in Holland by the world's foremost ship building experts, APT's European river ships signify the evolution of modern river cruising. From the intricate elegance of the interior appointments and the opulence of the suites to the wealth of recreational choice provided in the vessel's public areas, these river ships are truly the finest on Europe's waters. You can find more information on 
