Sensations of Lyon and Provence with Nice

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 05:00 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 disembark the ship for your transfer to Nice, where you will be taken to your centrally located hotel. Included is a three-night stay in the sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur. (B)

Today, the stunning seaside surrounds of the French Riviera are yours to explore with your local guide, before spending the afternoon exploring at leisure. You will be taken to Monte Carlo for an insightful tour. Famously portrayed in films that include Never Say Never Again and To Catch a Thief, Monte Carlo offers much in the way of its charming past. Witness the impressive Prince’s Palace of Monaco, originally a Genoese fortress with a dramatic past and the home of beloved actress Grace Kelly.

Included Excursion A city tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo (B)

Nice has long held a reputation for its glamour, where sun-kissed beaches and lavish surrounds create a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other. Today, explore Nice at leisure. Your Emerald Waterways representative will be available to help you to plan your day in this vibrant city.

DiscoverMORE Visit to Saint Paul de Vence (extra expense) (B)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare to be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of Roman amphitheatres and the lush surrounds of the French Riviera with you. (B)