Essence of Burgundy and Provence

Arrive in Nice and check in to your hotel. Stay Three Nights: Le Meridien Nice or similar

Tour the scenic capital of the French Riviera, where tourism has been alive for three centuries. Gaze at the azure waters of the Mediterranean and take in such sights as the Saint Reparate cathedral, opera house and Prefecture Palace. (B)

Head to the hilltop town of Eze for a scenic walking tour along its charming cobblestoned streets.

Later, explore intimate Monaco-Ville, a sleepy medieval village, before taking in the luxury and beauty of Monte Carlo, famous for its opulent casino. (B)

Depart Nice and, en route to Arles, enjoy a visit to Aix-En-Provence. Continue to your luxurious ship docked in Arles and embark on your seven-night cruise. Stay Seven Nights: Aria River Ship (B/D)

In Arles, you have the choice of a city tour, a tour to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, or a guided bike tour through town.

Later in the day cycle from Tarascon to Avignon, discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour, or join a culinary tour and taste Avignon's regional specialities. (B/L/D)

Viviers is a charming medieval city with picturesque 16th and 18th century monuments. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle-friendly city. Alternately, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provencal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. (B/L/D)

Ride a charming mini train around the city of Vienne, or for those wishing to be more active, join a guided bike tour or hike. Continue to Lyon where you can discover the old town on a walking tour including the St Jean district. Alternatively, enjoy a tasting tour or a guided bike tour through the city. (B/L/D)

Join a guided tour through Macon, or venture to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Alternately, you can enjoy a guided bike tour to Berze-le-Chatel, or join an excursion to the Royal Monastery of Brou.

Later in the day, sail to Tournus and enjoy a tasting of the region's famous white Maconnais wines, or opt for a bike ride from Macon to Tournus. (B/L/D)

Discover Tournus on a city tour, or choose to visit the moated Chateau de Cormatin. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion, or pedal through the charming town. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise towards Chalon-sur Saone, or opt to cycle instead. (B/L/D)

Discover Chalon-sur Saone on a city tour, or choose an excursion in Beaune. Alternatively, visit the storybook Chateau de Couches.

Later in the day, treat your palate to a tasting of Chalonnaise wines. (B/L/D)

Disembark your ship in Chalon-sur-Saone and transfer to your hotel in Geneva. Along the way, visit the stunning towns of Dijon and Bourg-en-Bresse. Stay Three Nights: Hotel Rotary Geneva-MGallery or similar (B/D)

Get acquainted with Geneva, the “Peace City”, on a guided walking tour. (B)

Visit Annecy in the French Alps, then tour Chillon Castle, a medieval island fortress with three formal great halls, a chapel and beautifully arched underground rooms that once served as a prison. (B)

Bid farewell to Geneva and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)