From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Embark in Lyon, France’s culinary capital. Savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. Become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles; learn how to pair chocolate with wine; and enjoy a specially curated food and wine pairing dinner on board. During this wine-themed journey, you’ll indulge in several wine tastings at traditional wineries and hike through vineyards, all while learning about the history and techniques of winemaking both on board with your dedicated wine expert and on shore. This journey is a must for anyone interested in the best of French wine and cuisine.
From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Spend three nights in Paris before going to Lyon, France’s culinary capital. Savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. Become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles; learn how to pair chocolate with wine; and enjoy a specially curated food and wine pairing dinner on board. After your cruise, spend three nights in Barcelona taking in the top sites, as well as views of the mountains of Montserrat. During this wine-themed journey, you’ll indulge in several wine tastings at traditional wineries and hike through vineyards, all while learning about the history and techniques of winemaking both on board with your dedicated wine expert and on shore. This journey is a must for anyone interested in the best of French wine and cuisine.
Colors of Provence (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.
Board the ship for your Colors of Provence cruise. (D)
| | OR Les Halles Market tour |
|
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting 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 on 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.” Alternatively, indulge in rich cheeses, fresh breads and charcuterie in Les Halles Market or join a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Lyon | Beaujolais excursion and tasting |
|
On your second day in Lyon, set out on a culinary journey that will linger on your palate for years to come. Travel to the Beaujolais wine region—known as the Pays d’Or or “land of the golden stones” – to experience France’s finest vintages firsthand. Indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery in Trevoux and learn about the history and techniques of their vineyard. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Vienne | "Footsteps of Ancient Romans” walking tour |
|
| Tournon | Red wine and chocolate tasting |
|
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Take a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route. During the evening, be treated to a delicious pairing of red wine and chocolate at the beautiful Villa Caroube. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Tournon | Steam train ride |
|
| | OR Hermitage wine tasting |
|
| | OR Tain l’Hermitage hike and wine tasting |
|
| Viviers | Evening Ghost Walk |
|
Walk through the steep vineyards as you learn about the history and techniques of winemaking in this area. Following the guided tour, join your host for a tasting of the Hermitage wines for which this region is celebrated. Alternatively, take a steam train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. For a more active adventure, take a hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines. Later, stroll through Viviers accompanied by a guide in Renaissance attire as former “residents” in period costumes reenact events and legends of centuries gone by. This special historical tour is sure to bring a smile to your lips – or perhaps send shivers down your spine! (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Avignon | Walking tour and Papal Palace |
|
| | OR Grignan truffle farm visit |
|
| | OR Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tasting |
|
Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions for the morning. Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades or you can enjoy a bike tour. During the afternoon, you can go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Alternately, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. Or, visit a winery in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, where viticulture has been promoted since the 14th century. The unique soil composition here has earned the area a reputation for producing distinctive wines that are now popular the world over. Join a specialist from the winery on a private tour of the wine cellars and vineyards, an exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemaking methods. Following your tour, enjoy a tasting of the vineyard’s specialty wines. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Arles | Arles walking tour |
|
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. In the morning, venture to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village and ruined castle. Enjoy time in the “old village,” its shops, art galleries, and cafes interspersed among the historic ruins. You will also have a unique experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where you will be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound, and history projected on the walls of a former limestone quarry set to music. Next, visit an olive farm to learn about this age-old Provençal tradition and enjoy a tasting. Finally, experience the beauty of Saint Rémy de Provence, the location where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous paintings, including Starry Night. Later in the day, join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. (B,L,D)
Bid farewell to Arles and prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.
Please note: the port of Arles may be changed to Avignon on select early season departures in 2023; guests will be notified of this potential change prior to departure. Arrival airport will not need to be changed.
| | Welcome Aboard Wine Tasting |
|
Board the ship for your Colors of Provence cruise. Cap the day off with a Welcome Aboard Wine Toast.
Day 2 | Arles | Arles Walking Tour |
|
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. Join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. During the afternoon, venture to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village and ruined castle. Enjoy time in the “old village,” its shops, art galleries, and cafes interspersed among the historic ruins. You will also have a unique experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where you will be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound, and history projected on the walls of a former limestone quarry set to music. Next, visit an olive farm to learn about this age-old Provençal tradition and enjoy a tasting. Finally, experience the beauty of Saint Rémy de Provence, the location where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous paintings, including Starry Night. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Avignon | Morning walking tour and Papal Palace |
|
| | OR Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tasting |
|
Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions in the morning. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades, or you can enjoy a bike tour through the city. During the afternoon, you can go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Or, visit a winery in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, where viticulture has been promoted since the 14th century. The unique soil composition here has earned the area a reputation for producing distinctive wines that are now popular the world over. Join a specialist from the winery on a private tour of the wine cellars and vineyards, an exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemaking methods. Following your tour, enjoy a tasting of the vineyard’s specialty wines. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Viviers | Viviers Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Grignan truffle farm visit |
|
| Tournon | Red wine and chocolate tasting |
|
Visit 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. You can also explore Viviers on a guided walking tour, where you’ll see iconic sights such as Saint-Vincent Cathedral. Continue on with a peaceful hike along the trails outside Viviers, culminating in a panoramic view of the Rhône Valley below. You can also set off on a guided bike tour, exploring the beauty of Southern France as you ride along the Rhône River. Later in the day, be treated to a delicious pairing of red wine and chocolate at the beautiful Villa Caroube. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Tournon | Hermitage wine tasting |
|
| | OR Tain-l'Hermitage hike and wine tasting |
|
Walk through the steep vineyards as you learn about the history and techniques of winemaking in this area. Following the guided tour, join your host for a tasting of the Hermitage wines for which this region is celebrated. Alternatively, take a steam train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. For a more active adventure, enjoy a hike through the vineyards of Tain-l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Vienne | Roman ruins walking tour |
|
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Take a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route. (B,L,D)
| | OR “Les Halles” Market Tour |
|
| | Beaujolais wine excursion and tasting |
|
Take a walking tour 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 on 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.” You can also visit the famous indoor market hall Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, named after the late chef renowned for his Michelin-starred l’Auberge du Pont de Collonges restaurant. There you’ll have a chance to sample the delicacies offered by butchers, bakers, chocolatiers and cheesemongers while taking in the colorful sights and enticing aromas around you. Alternately, join a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. Later, travel to the Beaujolais wine region—known as the Pays d’Or or “land of the golden stones." While there, indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery and learn about the history and techniques of their vineyard. (B,L,D)
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Lyon as you prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.
Arrive in Paris and check-in to your hotel.
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 illuminations 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 Lyon |
|
After checking out of your hotel in Paris, board the TGV train through the French countryside to Lyon, France’s culinary capital. Once in the “food capital of France,” enjoy some free time for lunch on your own before witnessing an included cooking demonstration of regional cuisine and culinary techniques. Later, transfer to your luxurious ship. (B,D)
| | OR Les Halles Market tour |
|
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting 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 on 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.” Alternatively, indulge in rich cheeses, fresh breads and charcuterie in Les Halles Market or join a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Lyon | Beaujolais excursion and tasting |
|
On your second day in Lyon, set out on a culinary journey that will linger on your palate for years to come. Travel to the Beaujolais wine region—known as the Pays d’Or or “land of the golden stones” – to experience France’s finest vintages firsthand. Indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery in Trevoux and learn about the history and techniques of their vineyard. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Vienne | "Footsteps of Ancient Romans” walking tour |
|
| Tournon | Red wine and chocolate tasting |
|
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Take a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route. During the evening, be treated to a delicious pairing of red wine and chocolate at the beautiful Villa Caroube. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Tournon | Steam train ride |
|
| | OR Hermitage wine tasting |
|
| | OR Tain l’Hermitage hike and wine tasting |
|
| Viviers | Evening Ghost Walk |
|
Walk through the steep vineyards as you learn about the history and techniques of winemaking in this area. Following the guided tour, join your host for a tasting of the Hermitage wines for which this region is celebrated. Alternatively, take a steam train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. For a more active adventure, take a hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines. Later, stroll through Viviers accompanied by a guide in Renaissance attire as former “residents” in period costumes reenact events and legends of centuries gone by. This special historical tour is sure to bring a smile to your lips – or perhaps send shivers down your spine! (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Avignon | Walking tour and Papal Palace |
|
| | OR Grignan truffle farm visit |
|
| | OR Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tasting |
|
Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions for the morning. Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades or you can enjoy a bike tour. During the afternoon, you can go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Alternately, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. Or, visit a winery in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, where viticulture has been promoted since the 14th century. The unique soil composition here has earned the area a reputation for producing distinctive wines that are now popular the world over. Join a specialist from the winery on a private tour of the wine cellars and vineyards, an exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemaking methods. Following your tour, enjoy a tasting of the vineyard’s specialty wines. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Arles | Arles walking tour |
|
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. In the morning, venture to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village and ruined castle. Enjoy time in the “old village,” its shops, art galleries, and cafes interspersed among the historic ruins. You will also have a unique experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where you will be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound, and history projected on the walls of a former limestone quarry set to music. Next, visit an olive farm to learn about this age-old Provençal tradition and enjoy a tasting. Finally, experience the beauty of Saint Rémy de Provence, the location where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous paintings, including Starry Night. Later in the day, join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Arles | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| | TGV train to Barcelona via Nimes |
|
Disembark your ship in Arles and board the TGV high-speed train to the city that inspired Antoni Gaudí and is certain to inspire you. On the way, pass through Camargue on the southern coast before stopping in Nîmes, a former outpost of the Roman Empire, close to the Mediterranean, where you will have free time for some exploring. After, we will continue on to the Catalan city of Barcelona. (B)
Day 12 | Barcelona | "The Best of Barcelona" tour |
|
Barcelona, the bustling capital of Catalonia, is an artist’s, architect’s, foodie’s, historian’s and culturist’s dream. Tour the cobblestoned lanes of the Gothic Quarter in the medieval city center and Las Ramblas. See some of Antoni Gaudí’s imaginative architectural creations, La Sagrada Familia. (B)
Day 13 | Barcelona | "The Mountains and Abbey of Montserrat" excursion |
|
Join an excursion to the mountain Montserrat, which is home to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, located about 30 miles from Barcelona. Once there, you can experience an indescribable view of the Catalonia landscape from the top of the mountain. The monastery, officially founded in 1025, soon began to receive pilgrims and visitors who contributed to the spread of stories of miracles and wonders performed by the Virgin Mary. The whole of Montserrat is built around facilitating the worship of the Black Madonna in the Basilica. While here, you’ll see the famous Black Madonna sculpture, which sits at the back of the church, above the altar area. The stairway leading to the statue, plus the room and altar in which the statue sits are ornate, golden and pay tribute to the wonder that is the Virgin herself. On leaving the Black Madonna, you will exit via the Cami de l'Ave Maria, another moving place where you will be given the opportunity, should you wish, to pay homage to the statue that you have just seen by lighting a candle. (B)
Day 14 | Barcelona | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Barcelona and prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.
Day 1 | Barcelona | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Barcelona and check into your hotel. (B)
Day 2 | Barcelona | "The Best of Barcelona" tour |
|
Barcelona, the bustling capital of Catalonia, is an artist’s, architect’s, foodie’s, historian’s and culturist’s dream. Tour the cobblestoned lanes of the Gothic Quarter in the medieval city center and Las Ramblas. See some of Antoni Gaudí’s imaginative architectural creations, including Casa Milà, Casa Batlló and La Sagrada Familia. (B)
Day 3 | Barcelona | "The Mountains and Abbey of Montserrat" excursion |
|
Join an excursion to the mountain Montserrat, which is home to the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, located about 30 miles from Barcelona. Once there, you can experience an indescribable view of the Catalonia landscape from the top of the mountain. The monastery, officially founded in 1025, soon began to receive pilgrims and visitors who contributed to the spread of stories of miracles and wonders performed by the Virgin Mary. The whole of Montserrat is built around facilitating the worship of the Black Madonna in the Basilica. While here, you’ll see the famous Black Madonna sculpture, which sits at the back of the church, above the altar area. The stairway leading to the statue, plus the room and altar in which the statue sits are ornate, golden and pay tribute to the wonder that is the Virgin herself. On leaving the Black Madonna, you will exit via the Cami de l'Ave Maria, another moving place where you will be given the opportunity, should you wish, to pay homage to the statue that you have just seen by lighting a candle. (B)
Day 4 | Barcelona | TGV to Nimes |
|
| | Welcome Aboard Wine Tasting |
|
Check out of the hotel and board the TGV high-speed train to Nimes. Then you will transfer via bus to Avignon where you’ll board your luxury ship. Cap the day off with a Welcome Aboard Wine Toast. (B,D)
Day 5 | Arles | Arles Walking Tour |
|
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. Join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. During the afternoon, venture to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village and ruined castle. Enjoy time in the “old village,” its shops, art galleries, and cafes interspersed among the historic ruins. You will also have a unique experience at the Carrières de Lumières, where you will be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound, and history projected on the walls of a former limestone quarry set to music. Next, visit an olive farm to learn about this age-old Provençal tradition and enjoy a tasting. Finally, experience the beauty of Saint Rémy de Provence, the location where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous paintings, including Starry Night. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Avignon | Morning walking tour and Papal Palace |
|
| | OR Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine tasting |
|
Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions in the morning. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades, or you can enjoy a bike tour through the city. During the afternoon, you can go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Or, visit a winery in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, where viticulture has been promoted since the 14th century. The unique soil composition here has earned the area a reputation for producing distinctive wines that are now popular the world over. Join a specialist from the winery on a private tour of the wine cellars and vineyards, an exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemaking methods. Following your tour, enjoy a tasting of the vineyard’s specialty wines. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Viviers | Viviers Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Grignan truffle farm visit |
|
| Tournon | Red wine and chocolate tasting |
|
Visit 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. You can also explore Viviers on a guided walking tour, where you’ll see iconic sights such as Saint-Vincent Cathedral. Continue on with a peaceful hike along the trails outside Viviers, culminating in a panoramic view of the Rhône Valley below. You can also set off on a guided bike tour, exploring the beauty of Southern France as you ride along the Rhône River. Later in the day, be treated to a delicious pairing of red wine and chocolate at the beautiful Villa Caroube. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Tournon | Hermitage wine tasting |
|
| | OR Tain-l'Hermitage hike and wine tasting |
|
Walk through the steep vineyards as you learn about the history and techniques of winemaking in this area. Following the guided tour, join your host for a tasting of the Hermitage wines for which this region is celebrated. Alternatively, take a steam train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. For a more active adventure, enjoy a hike through the vineyards of Tain-l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Vienne | Roman ruins walking tour |
|
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Take a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route. (B,L,D)
| | OR “Les Halles” Market Tour |
|
| | Beaujolais wine excursion and tasting |
|
Take a walking tour 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 on 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.” You can also visit the famous indoor market hall Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, named after the late chef renowned for his Michelin-starred l’Auberge du Pont de Collonges restaurant. There you’ll have a chance to sample the delicacies offered by butchers, bakers, chocolatiers and cheesemongers while taking in the colorful sights and enticing aromas around you. Alternately, join a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. Later, travel to the Beaujolais wine region—known as the Pays d’Or or “land of the golden stones." While there, indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery and learn about the history and techniques of their vineyard. (B,L,D)
| | TVG high-speed train to Paris |
|
Disembark the ship and enjoy some free time for lunch on your own before witnessing an included cooking demonstration of regional cuisine and culinary techniques. Afterwards, you will board the TGV high-speed train to Paris. Once you arrive in the famous “City of Lights,” check into your hotel. (B)
Day 12 | 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 13 | Paris | Evening Montmartre and illumination tour |
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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 |
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Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.