Sensations of Lyon & Provence

Welcome to Lyon, on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, where you will be met and transferred from the airport to the contemporary surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 04:30 PM. (D)

Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you will have the opportunity to witness the area’s architectural heritage and peaceful surrounds as you travel to the quaint village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune. Originally a hospital for the poor, it is now home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions.

EmeraldPLUS Cheese and olive tasting on board

Included Excursion Visit to the Hospices de Beaune (B/L/D)

France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country, home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Today, enjoy a guided city tour, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon.

EmeraldPLUS Silk presentation on board

EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour of Lyon

Included Excursion Guided tour of Lyon

DiscoverMORE Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense) (B/L/D)

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers. Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through some of the local vineyards. Later, a guided bike tour to Glun will showcase rural life in the French countryside.

EmeraldPLUS Regional wine tasting on board

EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Glun

EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike through the vineyards

Included Excursion Guided tour of Tournon (B/L/D)

Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will showcase some of its numerous listed monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades.

Included Excursion Guided tour of Viviers (B/L/D)

Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of the Pope and central to the French Revolution. Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. Then, the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale.

EmeraldPLUS Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing excursion in Avignon

DiscoverMORE Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE Classical concert in Avignon (extra expense)

Included Excursion Guided tour of Avignon (B/L/D)

The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the 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. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps stopping at a local café or returning to your Star-Ship to relax on board.

Included Excursion Guided tour of Arles with arena visit

DiscoverMORE Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense) (B/L/D)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside and delightful cuisine with you. 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. (B)