Aix-en-Provence with Sensations of Lyon & Provence

Today, you will be transferred from the airport to the quaint surrounds of Aix-en-Provence; a town known for being the birthplace of Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne, included is a restful three-night stay in the town.

A perfect introduction to Aix-en-Provence awaits, as a local guide takes you weaving down some of the leafy boulevards and cobblestone squares that can be found here, each lined with 18th-century mansions. Later, enjoy time to explore this Provençal jewel at leisure. Included Excursion A guided tour of Aix-en-Provence (B)

Today is yours to spend enjoying the peaceful surrounds of Aix-en-Provence at leisure, perhaps visiting the Musée Granet or sitting in a terraced area outside of one of the town’s many charming cafés. Your hospitality representative will be available to help you plan your day. (B)

This morning, you will be transferred from your centrally located hotel in Aix-en-Provence to Arles, a town city steeped in Roman beginnings. Board your luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship and enjoy a welcome dinner on board. (B/D)

Revel in the glory of the Roman Empire today during an insightful visit to Arles, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles and Arles Amphitheatre, a 2,000-year-old structure where spectators would have once gathered by the masses to watch superb chariot races. Enjoy learning about the time that Vincent van Gogh spent in the city, taking inspiration from his surroundings and using them to create many of his most iconic pieces of art, including the “Starry Night Over the Rhône”, before exploring Arles at leisure. EmeraldPLUS A Provençal dinner hosted by Chef Fabien Morreale Included Excursion A guided tour of Arles with arena visit DiscoverMORE A Camargue excursion (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Avignon has a long and storied history, as this fortified town was once the residence of Popes who fled from Rome, hoping to escape from the political pressures of the Roman Empire. Embark on a guided walking tour of Avignon to witness its illustrious past, including the ornate Gothic exterior of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, built by the Popes over two decades. This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps crossing the 12th-century Stone Bridge. Included Excursion A guided tour of Avignon EmeraldACTIVE A canoeing excursion in Avignon DiscoverMORE A guided tour to Pont du Gard (extra expense) DiscoverMORE A classical concert in Avignon (extra expense) (B/L/D)

A snapshot of quintessential France awaits your arrival in Viviers, a town that perfectly encapsulates the medieval days of the region. Pastel coloured buildings that have been gently faded by the sun line narrow cobblestone streets, and the heart of the old town is yours to explore today during a guided walking tour. Included Excursion A guided tour of Viviers DiscoverMORE Fishing class (extra expense) EmeraldACTIVE Hike in Viviers (B/L/D)

As we sail down the gently twisting Rhône and into Tournon, a 16th-century castle sits overlooking the village and a pair of ancient watchtowers can be seen adorning the surrounding rural landscape. Today, embark on a guided tour of Tournon to learn about its illustrious history and the culture of the people who call it home. If you would like to explore more of the region’s natural beauty, then you may instead choose to embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through some of the local vineyards. Later, a guided bike tour to Glun will touch on the French countryside and the lives of the people who live there. EmeraldPLUS A regional wine tasting on board EmeraldACTIVE A guided bike tour to Glun EmeraldACTIVE A guided hike through the vineyards Included Excursion A guided tour of Tournon (B/L/D)

As one of the largest cities in France and a former Roman capital, a lot 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 Lyon, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. If you are feeling more active, then you may instead choose to embark on a guided bike tour around Lyon, touching on its most prominent architectural wonders and moments from history. EmeraldACTIVE A guided bike tour of Lyon Included Excursion A guided tour of Lyon DiscoverMORE Visit to Pérouges (extra expense) (B/L/D)

The birthplace of photography and the centre of Burgundy’s wine region is yours to discover today as you travel by road to the quaint village of Beaune. Stop to visit the Hospices de Beaune, one of the best-preserved examples of 15th-century French architecture and home to one of the most popular wine auctions in the country. EmeraldPLUS A cheese and olive tasting on board Included Excursion Visit to the Hospices de Beaune (B/L/D)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of French architecture and sun-kissed surrounds with you. 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 note: Pre-release itinerary subject to change. (B)