Experience the viticultural pleasures of the Burgundy region when you embark on this river cruise curated for new and experienced wine enthusiasts alike. Indulge in invigorating wine tastings set against the backdrop of picturesque destinations like Seurre, Tournus, Chalon-sur-Saône, and Lyon. Immerse yourself in the awe-inspiring landscapes of graceful vineyards and storied landmarks along the Saône River. The flavors of Burgundy extend to its vibrant culture and captivating history. Delve into the techniques that shape the renowned wines of this region, gaining insight into traditional processes that have stood the test of time. Hosted by a dedicated wine expert, this journey is a must for anyone interested in the best of Burgundy’s wines.
Embark on a journey that caters to discerning tastes and highlights the decadent French flavors throughout the Burgundy region. Enjoy crisp wine tastings throughout your journey in beautiful destinations such as Seurre, Tournus, Mâcon and Lyon. Absorb the breath-taking scenery of elegant vineyards and historic sites as you sail along the Saône River. Savor exquisite regional cuisine and delightful treats on board and in the wonderful ports you visit. More than just the incredible food and drink you will taste throughout this itinerary, the flavors of Burgundy expand to the rich culture and fascinating history, all of which you will enjoy on this captivating journey.
Flavors of Burgundy (Wine Cruise)
At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Day 1 | Port of Dijon | EMBARKATION |
|
Board your ship in preparation for your 7-night Flavors of Burgundy cruise. (B,D)
Day 2 | Port of Dijon | Dijon city tour |
|
| | OR Château d’Arcelot visit |
|
| | OR “Banks of the River Saône” bike tour |
|
Famously known as the “Birthplace of Mustard,” Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon’s medieval center which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. Alternatively, visit the stunning Château d’Arcelot, with elements dating back to the 13th century. The Château d’Arcelot blends medieval religious structures, neoclassical architecture, and even a Chinese pavilion into a fascinating architectural marvel. Or embark on a guided bike tour along the Saône River and witness captivating sites such as the lock controlling the river’s access to the Rhône-Rhine Canal. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Seurre | Beaune excursion |
|
| | OR Art du Tonneau Cooperage Experience |
|
| Chalon-sur-Saône | Scenic cruising |
|
| | OR Côtes de Nuits wine tasting |
|
Visit the town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hospices de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Guests interested in wine making can learn more about cooperage, or the art of making wine barrels, in this interactive workshop that guides you through the process of crafting barrels through traditional methods. You may also join a guided tour through Seurre, unraveling its rich tapestry of heritage and charm. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic sailing by the picturesque city of Chalon-Sur-Saône. Alternatively, sample the highly esteemed vintages from the Côtes de Nuits region on a guided wine tasting, surrounded by the oaken casks and intricately tiled roofs that bring this sommelier’s fantasy to life. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Chalon-sur-Saône | Historic city tour |
|
| | OR Chalon-sur-Saône bike tour |
|
| | OR Chalonnaise wine tasting |
|
| | OR Chalon-Tournus bike tour |
|
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past, which you will discover on your historic city tour. You may also choose to explore the city on a guided bike tour. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Tournus, or learn about centuries old traditions while sampling the region’s famous Chalonnaise wines. Alternatively, pedal from Chalon-sur-Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Tournus | Tournus city tour & Abbey of Saint Philibert visit |
|
| | OR Tournus-Mâcon bike tour |
|
| | OR Mâconnais wine tasting |
|
Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Mâcon. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Mâcon. Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon or go wine tasting and meet the ship in Mâcon. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Macon | “The South Burgundy City” Mâcon tour |
|
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey, and the nearby castle Berze-le-Chatel, a well-preserved fortress perched on a rocky hill offering stunning views below. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture. Active guests can join a guided bike tour through the city. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Lyon | Beaujolais wine tasting |
|
| | “France’s Culinary Capital” city tour |
|
| | OR Les Halles tasting tour |
|
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting with a tasting of Beaujolais wines at a traditional winery. In the afternoon, you may join a tour of Lyon that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” If you’re a self-described foodie, our Les Halles Market tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
Bid farewell to Lyon and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
Board your ship in preparation for your 7-night Flavors of Burgundy cruise. (B,D)
Day 2 | Lyon | Beaujolais wine tasting |
|
| | “France’s Culinary Capital” city tour |
|
| | OR Les Halles tasting tour |
|
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting with a tasting of Beaujolais wines at a traditional winery. In the afternoon, you may join a tour of Lyon that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” If you’re a self-described foodie, our Les Halles Market tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Macon | “The South Burgundy City” Mâcon tour |
|
| | OR Mâconnais wine tasting |
|
| | OR Mâcon-Tournus bike tour |
|
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Tournus. Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Mâcon to Tournus. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Tournus | Tournus city tour & Abbey of Saint Philibert visit |
|
| Chalon-sur-Saône | Scenic cruising |
|
| | OR Chalonnaise wine tasting |
|
| | OR Tournus-Chalon bike tour |
|
Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Chalon-sur-Saône, or learn about centuries old traditions while sampling the region’s famous Chalonnaise wines. Alternatively, pedal from Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône on an exhilarating guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Chalon-sur-Saône | Historic city tour |
|
| | OR Chalon-sur-Saône bike tour |
|
| | OR Côtes de Nuits wine tasting |
|
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. You may also choose to explore the city on a guided bike tour. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Seurre. Alternatively, sample the highly esteemed vintages from the Côtes de Nuits region on a guided wine tasting, surrounded by the oaken casks and intricately tiled roofs that bring this sommelier’s fantasy to life. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Seurre | Beaune excursion |
|
| | OR Art du Tonneau Cooperage Experience |
|
| | OR Seurre-Dijon bike tour |
|
Visit the town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hospices de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Guests interested in wine making can learn more about cooperage, or the art of making wine barrels, in this interactive workshop that guides you through the process of crafting barrels through traditional methods. You may also join a guided tour through Seurre, unraveling its rich tapestry of heritage and charm. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic sailing or opt for a more active outing with a bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Port of Dijon | Dijon city tour |
|
| | OR Château d’Arcelot visit |
|
| | OR “Banks of the Saone” Bike tour |
|
Famously known as the “Birthplace of Mustard,” Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon’s medieval center which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. Alternatively, embark on a guided bike tour along the Saône River and witness captivating sites such as the lock controlling the river’s access to the Rhone-Rhine Canal. Or choose to visit the stunning Château d’Arcelot, with elements dating back to the 13th century. The Château d’Arcelot blends medieval religious structures, neoclassical architecture, and even a Chinese pavilion into a fascinating architectural marvel. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Port of Dijon | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Bid farewell to Dijon and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
Check into your Paris hotel for the beginning of your Flavors of Burgundy pre-cruise land program.
Day 2 | Paris | “City of Light” tour |
|
Enjoy a morning tour taking in the signature sites of Paris, including the awe-inspiring Arc de Triomphe and iconic Eiffel Tower. (B)
Day 3 | Paris | Evening Montmartre and illumination tour |
|
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to discover more of this romantic city, such as the world-renowned Louvre Museum or Musée d’Orsay. Perhaps go shopping in the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district or simply relax and spend the day like a local – by scoping out a local café for a café au lait, toasted baguette or croissant. In the evening, visit Montmartre, long known as the city’s premier artist's enclave. During the mid to late 1800s, artists also began calling Montmartre home. Pissarro and Jongkind were two of the first to live there, followed by other notable artists, including Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse, Toulouse-Lautrec, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Pablo Picasso. You’ll be taken on an evening illumination tour, discovering why Paris is renowned as the “City of Light.” (B)
Day 4 | Paris | TGV high-speed train to Dijon |
|
Check out of your Paris hotel and board your comfortable motorcoach for a scenic drive through the French countryside to Dijon. Embark the ship in the port of Dijon for your Flavors of Burgundy cruise. (B,D)
Day 5 | Port of Dijon | Dijon city tour |
|
| | OR Château d’Arcelot visit |
|
| | OR “Banks of the River Saône” bike tour |
|
Famously known as the “Birthplace of Mustard,” Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon’s medieval center which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. Alternatively, visit the stunning Château d’Arcelot, with elements dating back to the 13th century. The Château d’Arcelot blends medieval religious structures, neoclassical architecture, and even a Chinese pavilion into a fascinating architectural marvel. Or embark on a guided bike tour along the Saône River and witness captivating sites such as the lock controlling the river’s access to the Rhône-Rhine Canal. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Seurre | Beaune excursion |
|
| | OR Art du Tonneau Cooperage Experience |
|
| Chalon-sur-Saône | Scenic cruising |
|
| | OR Côtes de Nuits wine tasting |
|
Visit the town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hospices de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Guests interested in wine making can learn more about cooperage, or the art of making wine barrels, in this interactive workshop that guides you through the process of crafting barrels through traditional methods. You may also join a guided tour through Seurre, unraveling its rich tapestry of heritage and charm. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic sailing by the picturesque city of Chalon-Sur-Saône. Alternatively, sample the highly esteemed vintages from the Côtes de Nuits region on a guided wine tasting, surrounded by the oaken casks and intricately tiled roofs that bring this sommelier’s fantasy to life. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Chalon-sur-Saône | Historic city tour |
|
| | OR Chalon-sur-Saône bike tour |
|
| | OR Chalonnaise wine tasting |
|
| | OR Chalon-Tournus bike tour |
|
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past, which you will discover on your historic city tour. You may also choose to explore the city on a guided bike tour. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Tournus, or learn about centuries old traditions while sampling the region’s famous Chalonnaise wines. Alternatively, pedal from Chalon-sur-Saône to Tournus on an exhilarating guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Tournus | Tournus city tour & Abbey of Saint Philibert visit |
|
| | OR Tournus-Mâcon bike tour |
|
| | OR Mâconnais wine tasting |
|
Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore the cities of Tournus and Mâcon. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Mâcon. Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Tournus to Mâcon or go wine tasting and meet the ship in Mâcon. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Macon | “The South Burgundy City” Mâcon tour |
|
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey, and the nearby castle Berze-le-Chatel, a well-preserved fortress perched on a rocky hill offering stunning views below. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture. Active guests can join a guided bike tour through the city. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Lyon | Beaujolais wine tasting |
|
| | “France’s Culinary Capital” city tour |
|
| | OR Les Halles tasting tour |
|
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting with a tasting of Beaujolais wines at a traditional winery. In the afternoon, you may join a tour of Lyon that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” If you’re a self-described foodie, our Les Halles Market tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
| | Transfer to Geneva via Annecy |
|
Disembark your ship in Lyon and transfer to Geneva with a stop in Annecy, home to beautiful castles, including the Château d’Annecy, home to the Counts of Geneva, and natural green spaces with bike trails winding through along the lake. Check in to your hotel in Geneva, Switzerland. (B,D)
Day 12 | Geneva | “The Peace Capital” city tour |
|
Get acquainted with Geneva, the “Peace City,” and gateway to the Swiss Alps, on your guided walking tour. With traditions in both watchmaking and chocolate making, this beautiful city has a rich history, which you will glimpse during your excursion. (B)
Day 13 | Geneva | Montreux and Chillon Castle visit |
|
Venture to Montreux and visit Chillon Castle, a picture-perfect medieval island fortress with three formal great halls, a chapel and beautifully arched underground rooms that once served as a prison. (B)
Day 14 | Geneva | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Geneva and prepare for flight home. (B)
Day 1 | Geneva | Hotel check-in |
|
Check into your Geneva hotel for the beginning of your Essence of Burgundy & Provence pre-cruise land program.
Day 2 | Geneva | “The Peace Capital” city tour |
|
Get acquainted with Geneva, the “Peace City,” and gateway to the Swiss Alps, on your guided walking tour. With traditions in both watchmaking and chocolate making, this beautiful city has a rich history, which you will glimpse during your excursion. (B)
Day 3 | Geneva | Montreux and Chillon Castle visit |
|
Venture to Montreux and visit Chillon Castle, a picture-perfect medieval island fortress with three formal great halls, a chapel and beautifully arched underground rooms that once served as a prison. (B)
Day 4 | Geneva | Transfer to ship via Annecy |
|
Transfer to Lyon with a stop in Annecy, home to beautiful castles, including the Château d’Annecy, home to the Counts of Geneva, and natural green spaces with bike trails winding through along the lake. Board your ship in preparation for your 7-night Flavors of Burgundy cruise. (B,D)
Day 5 | Lyon | Beaujolais wine tasting |
|
| | “France’s Culinary Capital” city tour |
|
| | OR Les Halles tasting tour |
|
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting with a tasting of Beaujolais wines at a traditional winery. In the afternoon, you may join a tour of Lyon that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” If you’re a self-described foodie, our Les Halles Market tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Macon | “The South Burgundy City” Mâcon tour |
|
| | OR Mâconnais wine tasting |
|
| | OR Mâcon-Tournus bike tour |
|
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Return to the ship and enjoy a scenic cruise to Tournus. Or, instead, join a guided bike tour from Mâcon to Tournus. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Tournus | Tournus city tour & Abbey of Saint Philibert visit |
|
| Chalon-sur-Saône | Scenic cruising |
|
| | OR Chalonnaise wine tasting |
|
| | OR Tournus-Chalon bike tour |
|
Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Chalon-sur-Saône, or learn about centuries old traditions while sampling the region’s famous Chalonnaise wines. Alternatively, pedal from Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône on an exhilarating guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Chalon-sur-Saône | Historic city tour |
|
| | OR Chalon-sur-Saône bike tour |
|
| | OR Côtes de Nuits wine tasting |
|
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. You may also choose to explore the city on a guided bike tour. Later in the day, enjoy a scenic sailing to Seurre. Alternatively, sample the highly esteemed vintages from the Côtes de Nuits region on a guided wine tasting, surrounded by the oaken casks and intricately tiled roofs that bring this sommelier’s fantasy to life. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Seurre | Beaune excursion |
|
| | OR Art du Tonneau Cooperage Experience |
|
| | OR Seurre-Dijon bike tour |
|
Visit the town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hospices de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Guests interested in wine making can learn more about cooperage, or the art of making wine barrels, in this interactive workshop that guides you through the process of crafting barrels through traditional methods. You may also join a guided tour through Seurre, unraveling its rich tapestry of heritage and charm. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic sailing or opt for a more active outing with a bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Port of Dijon | Dijon city tour |
|
| | OR Château d’Arcelot visit |
|
| | OR “Banks of the Saone” Bike tour |
|
Famously known as the “Birthplace of Mustard,” Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon’s medieval center which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. Alternatively, embark on a guided bike tour along the Saône River and witness captivating sites such as the lock controlling the river’s access to the Rhone-Rhine Canal. Or choose to visit the stunning Château d’Arcelot, with elements dating back to the 13th century. The Château d’Arcelot blends medieval religious structures, neoclassical architecture, and even a Chinese pavilion into a fascinating architectural marvel. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Dijon | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| | Motorcoach transfer to Paris |
|
Disembark the ship, board your comfortable motorcoach to Paris and check into your hotel. (B)
Day 12 | Paris | “City of Light” tour |
|
Enjoy taking in the signature sites of Paris in your guided city tour, including the awe-inspiring Arc de Triomphe and iconic Eiffel Tower. You’ll see Champs Élysées with its cinemas, sidewalk cafes and luxury specialty shops. (B)
Day 13 | Paris | Evening Montmartre and illumination tour |
|
Enjoy a full day at your leisure to discover more of this romantic city, such as the world-renowned Louvre Museum or Musée d’Orsay. Perhaps go shopping in the Faubourg Saint-Honoré district or simply relax and spend the day like a local – by scoping out a local café for a café au lait, toasted baguette or croissant. In the evening, visit Montmartre, long known as the city’s premier artist's enclave. During the mid to late 1800s, artists also began calling Montmartre home. Pissarro and Jongkind were two of the first to live there, followed by other notable artists, including Edgar Degas, Henri Matisse, Toulouse-Lautrec, Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Pablo Picasso. You’ll be taken on an evening illumination tour, discovering why Paris is renowned as the “City of Light.” (B)
Day 14 | Paris | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home.