From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine's journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux's finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the peaceful commune of Cussac-Fort-Medoc. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux's colorful culture and rich flavors, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.
Begin your journey in the heart of Basque Country, Bilbao! Home to the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao is a cultural hub for rich history and flavorful cuisine. Then enjoy two nights in the stunning seaside resort of San Sebastián before embarking on your river cruise journey in Bordeaux. From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine's journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux's finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the seaside resort of Soulac-sur-Mer. After disembarking, you will venture into the UNESCO-designated Loire Valley, the all-important "Garden of France." Journey to Amboise, the final resting place of Leonardo da Vinci, before concluding your journey in the “City of Lights” which needs no introduction, Paris.
From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine's journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux's finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the seaside resort of Soulac-sur-Mer. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux's colorful culture and rich flavors, and capping off your journey with three nights exploring the romantic “City of Lights,” Paris, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.
Begin your journey in the heart of Spain, with our new-for-2026 land package in Madrid! Explore the magnificent architecture within this culture-rich cosmopolitan metropolis. Then enjoy two nights in the stunning seaside resort of San Sebastián before embarking on your river cruise journey in Bordeaux. From romantic walks to red wine, Bordeaux is the cultural capital of all that is quintessentially French. Follow wine's journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux's finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the seaside resort of Soulac-sur-Mer. After indulging in Bordeaux's colorful culture and rich flavors, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.
Begin your journey in the heart of Spain, with our new-for-2026 land package in Madrid! Follow wine's journey from countryside to cask as you tour centuries-old vineyards and taste Bordeaux's finest vintages throughout your river cruise experience. Step into living history when you visit historic Roquetaillade Castle and Château Boutinet, delighting in their elegant décor and regal architecture. Then, contrast their grandeur with the pastoral gems including the historic village of Saint-Émilion and the seaside resort of Soulac-sur-Mer. Explore the cobblestone streets of Bordeaux and the rolling hills of the French countryside by foot or by bicycle, experiencing southern France according to your tastes. After indulging in Bordeaux's colorful culture and rich flavors, and capping off your journey with three nights exploring the romantic “City of Lights,” Paris, you and your palate will remember this journey for years to come.
Taste of Bordeaux
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.
Embark the ship for your Taste of Bordeaux cruise. (D)
Day 2 | Libourne | Saint-Émilion Excursion |
|
| | OR Saint-Émilion bike tour |
|
Welcome to Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Libourne | Bastide town and market visit |
|
| | OR Ancient Watermill Visit and Breadmaking Workshop |
|
| | OR Château Boutinet hike with wine and tapas tasting |
|
Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. As a unique alternative, travel back in time to visit an ancient watermill and learn the tradition of breadmaking. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a tasting of local wine and tapas. (B,L,D)
| | OR Blaye Chemin de Fer bike tour |
|
| Bourg | OR Bourg walking tour, Carriage Museum, and WWII Petrol Cistern |
|
Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye along a former railway. Later in the day, you can choose to bike from Blaye through the idyllic French countryside to Bourg. Or, in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles, and the World War II Petrol Cistern. Towards the evening, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Cussac Fort Medoc | Cussac Fort and Vineyards Hike |
|
Cussac-Fort-Medoc is a peaceful commune in southwestern France and your gateway to the famed Médoc region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines. Enjoy a guided hike through this picturesque region, where you will take in the beauty of this fort as well as the verdant vineyards that decorate this breathtaking landscape. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Cadillac | Roquetaillade and Cadillac visit |
|
Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Or, pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Bordeaux | UNESCO city tour and market tasting |
|
| | OR Bordeaux Cité du Vin (wine museum) visit |
|
The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. In the afternoon, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. Alternatively, you can enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Bordeaux | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Disembark the ship and prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.
Day 1 | Bilbao | Hotel check-in |
|
Check into your hotel for the beginning of your Basque Country land package
Day 2 | Bilbao | Guernica excursion |
|
| | “A City of Contrasts” walking tour and introduction to tapas |
|
Travel to the Basque town of Guernica, infamously bombed by German and Italian air forces during the Spanish Civil War – and the subject of one of Picasso’s most renowned paintings. Immerse yourself in culture and visit the open-air market where you’ll find a variety of local specialties, from cheese to peppers to fish. Later in the day, take an informative walking tour through Bilbao and learn how to order Basque tapas, known locally as pintxos, and revered for their small size and big taste. (B)
Day 3 | Bilbao | Guggenheim Museum |
|
| San Sebastian | Hotel check-in |
|
Take a deep dive into the contemporary art within the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, a work of art itself. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the museum features a daring and innovative façade and showcases work by such artists as Andy Warhol, German artist Anselm Kiefer, and Basque masters Eduardo Chillida and Jorge Oteiza. Later in the day, transfer to San Sebastián and check into your hotel. In the evening, take a stroll through Old Town, the second oldest neighborhood in the city, where distinctive architecture and pintxos bars beckon, made even more romantic by the evening light. (B)
Day 4 | San Sebastian | “City by the Bay of Biscay” tour |
|
Discover the charms of the “City by the Bay of Biscay.” Known in the Basque language as Donostia, San Sebastián was once a prominent fishing village and was burned to the ground in 1813 after being occupied by Napoleonic troops. However, by 1887, after rebuilding, the city flourished as a popular tourist destination and spa resort. Later in the day, enjoy some free time in the city renowned for holding the second highest number of Michelin stars per square meter. (B)
Day 5 | San Sebastian | Transfer to Bordeaux via Bayonne |
|
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Bordeaux via the French Basque town of Bayonne. Later, embark the ship in Bordeaux for your Taste of Bordeaux cruise. (B,D)
Day 6 | Libourne | Saint-Émilion Excursion |
|
| | OR Saint-Émilion bike tour |
|
Welcome to Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Libourne | Bastide town and market visit |
|
| | OR Ancient Watermill Visit and Breadmaking Workshop |
|
| | OR Château Boutinet hike with wine and tapas tasting |
|
Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. As a unique alternative, travel back in time to visit an ancient watermill and learn the tradition of breadmaking. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a tasting of local wine and tapas. (B,L,D)
| | OR Blaye Chemin de Fer bike tour |
|
| Bourg | OR Bourg walking tour, Carriage Museum, and WWII Petrol Cistern |
|
Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye along a former railway. Later in the day, you can choose to bike from Blaye through the idyllic French countryside to Bourg. Or, in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles, and the World War II Petrol Cistern. Towards the evening, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Cussac Fort Medoc | Cussac Fort and Vineyards Hike |
|
Cussac-Fort-Medoc is a peaceful commune in southwestern France and your gateway to the famed Médoc region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines. Enjoy a guided hike through this picturesque region, where you will take in the beauty of this fort as well as the verdant vineyards that decorate this breathtaking landscape. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Cadillac | Roquetaillade and Cadillac visit |
|
Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Or, pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Bordeaux | UNESCO city tour and market tasting |
|
| | OR Bordeaux Cité du Vin (wine museum) visit |
|
The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. In the afternoon, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. Alternatively, you can enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Bordeaux | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Loire Valley / Amboise | Hotel check-in |
|
Disembark the ship and transfer to Amboise, with a visit to Cognac en route for lunch and free time before arriving in the Loire Valley, where you will check in to your Amboise hotel. (B)
Day 13 | Amboise | Château de Chenonceau, Clos du Lucé and Château d’Amboise |
|
Visit three of the Loire Valley’s regal châteaux starting with the Château de Chenonceau, one of the most beautiful castles in France. This château has been referred to as the “Women’s Castle” since it is the only castle in the region that has been built, inhabited and saved by women during the Renaissance. Château du Clos Lucé was Leonardo da Vinci’s last home where he completed some of his most famous works under the patronage of the King of France. The Château d’Amboise, perched on a promontory overlooking the Loire River, was the first Renaissance château built in the Loire Valley and features extravagant residences, gardens and a Gothic chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. (B)
Day 14 | Amboise | Hotel check-out |
|
| Paris | Transfer to Paris; hotel check-in |
|
Check out of your Amboise hotel and, en route to Paris, visit two more majestic châteaux. While Château de Chambord, located at the heart of Europe’s largest enclosed wooded park, began as an unassuming hunting lodge, it is now the biggest château in the Loire Valley with 426 rooms, 77 staircases and 282 fireplaces. Next, either marvel at the residence of seven kings and ten queens of France at the famous Château de Blois where you'll discover the secrets of the French court, or enjoy free time. Afterwards, transfer by motorcoach to your hotel at Charles De Gaulle Airport. (B)
Day 15 | Paris | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.
Day 1 | Bilbao | Hotel check-in |
|
Check into your hotel for the beginning of your Basque Country land package.
Day 2 | Bilbao | Guernica excursion |
|
| | “A City of Contrasts” walking tour and introduction to tapas |
|
Travel to the Basque town of Guernica, infamously bombed by German and Italian air forces during the Spanish Civil War – and the subject of one of Picasso’s most renowned paintings. Immerse yourself in culture and visit the open-air market where you’ll find a variety of local specialties, from cheese to peppers to fish. Later in the day, take an informative walking tour through Bilbao and learn how to order Basque tapas, known locally as pintxos, and revered for their small size and big taste. (B)
Day 3 | Bilbao | Guggenheim Museum |
|
| San Sebastian | Hotel check-in |
|
Take a deep dive into the contemporary art within the world-famous Guggenheim Museum, a work of art itself. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the museum features a daring and innovative façade and showcases work by such artists as Andy Warhol, German artist Anselm Kiefer, and Basque masters Eduardo Chillida and Jorge Oteiza. Later in the day, transfer to San Sebastián and check into your hotel. In the evening, take a stroll through Old Town, the second oldest neighborhood in the city, where distinctive architecture and pintxos bars beckon, made even more romantic by the evening light. (B)
Day 4 | San Sebastian | “City by the Bay of Biscay” tour |
|
Discover the charms of the “City by the Bay of Biscay.” Known in the Basque language as Donostia, San Sebastián was once a prominent fishing village and was burned to the ground in 1813 after being occupied by Napoleonic troops. However, by 1887, after rebuilding, the city flourished as a popular tourist destination and spa resort. Later in the day, enjoy some free time in the city renowned for holding the second highest number of Michelin stars per square meter. (B)
Day 5 | San Sebastian | Transfer to Bordeaux via Bayonne |
|
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Bordeaux via the French Basque town of Bayonne. Later, embark the ship in Bordeaux for your Taste of Bordeaux cruise. (B,D)
Day 6 | Libourne | Saint-Émilion Excursion |
|
| | OR Saint-Émilion bike tour |
|
Welcome to Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Libourne | Bastide town and market visit |
|
| | OR Ancient Watermill Visit and Breadmaking Workshop |
|
| | OR Château Boutinet hike with wine and tapas tasting |
|
Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. As a unique alternative, travel back in time to visit an ancient watermill and learn the tradition of breadmaking. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a tasting of local wine and tapas. (B,L,D)
| | OR Blaye Chemin de Fer bike tour |
|
| Bourg | OR Bourg walking tour, Carriage Museum, and WWII Petrol Cistern |
|
Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye along a former railway. Later in the day, you can choose to bike from Blaye through the idyllic French countryside to Bourg. Or, in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles, and the World War II Petrol Cistern. Towards the evening, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Cussac Fort Medoc | Cussac Fort and Vineyards Hike |
|
Cussac-Fort-Medoc is a peaceful commune in southwestern France and your gateway to the famed Médoc region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines. Enjoy a guided hike through this picturesque region, where you will take in the beauty of this fort as well as the verdant vineyards that decorate this breathtaking landscape. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Cadillac | Roquetaillade and Cadillac visit |
|
Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Or, pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Bordeaux | UNESCO city tour and market tasting |
|
| | OR Bordeaux Cité du Vin (wine museum) visit |
|
The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. In the afternoon, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. Alternatively, you can enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Bordeaux | RIVER CRUISE DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Paris | Check into your hotel |
|
Disembark the ship and transfer by train to beautiful Paris, where you will check into your hotel. (B)
Day 13 | Paris | “City of Light” tour |
|
Enjoy taking in the signature sights of Paris during your guided city tour, including the awe-inspiring Arc de Triomphe and iconic Eiffel Tower. You will also see Champs Élysées with its cinemas, sidewalk cafes and luxury specialty shops. (B)
Day 14 | Paris | Evening Montmartre and illuminations tour |
|
Revel in the freedom of 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 began calling Montmartre home. Pissarro and Jongkind were two of the first to live there, followed by other notable artists, including Edgar Dega, Henri Matisse, Toulouse-Lautrec, Pierre-August Renoir and Pablo Picasso. You will also be taken on an evening illumination tour, discovering why Paris is renowned as the “City of Light.” (B)
Day 15 | Paris | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home. (B)
Day 1 | Madrid | Hotel check-in |
|
Check into your hotel for the beginning of your land package in beautiful Spain.
Begin your day in this spectacular Spanish city with a panoramic tour that takes you past some of the city’s most iconic symbols, including the Alcalá Gate and Cibeles Fountain. Drive down Castellana Avenue to see Picasso’s Tower and the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Then, embark on a walking tour to see the Royal Palace and stroll through Madrid’s Old Town to Mayor’s Square, brimming with shops, taverns and restaurants, which you will have free time to explore. (B)
Day 3 | Madrid | Hotel check-out |
|
| | Transfer to San Sebastián |
|
| San Sebastian | Hotel check-in |
|
Check out of your Madrid hotel and transfer to San Sebastián, where you will have some time to settle into your new hotel. In the evening, take a stroll through Old Town, the second oldest neighborhood in the city, where distinctive architecture and pintxos bars beckon, made even more romantic by the evening light. (B)
Day 4 | San Sebastian | “City by the Bay of Biscay” tour |
|
Discover the charms of the “City by the Bay of Biscay.” Known in the Basque language as Donostia, San Sebastián was once a prominent fishing village and was burned to the ground in 1813 after being occupied by Napoleonic troops. However, by 1887, after rebuilding, the city flourished as a popular tourist destination and spa resort. Later in the day, enjoy some free time in the city renowned for holding the second highest number of Michelin stars per square meter. (B)
Day 5 | San Sebastian | Transfer to Bordeaux via Bayonne |
|
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Bordeaux via the French Basque town of Bayonne. Later, embark the ship in Bordeaux for your Taste of Bordeaux cruise. (B,D)
Day 6 | Libourne | Saint-Émilion Excursion |
|
| | OR Saint-Émilion bike tour |
|
Welcome to Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Libourne | Bastide town and market visit |
|
| | OR Ancient Watermill Visit and Breadmaking Workshop |
|
| | OR Château Boutinet hike with wine and tapas tasting |
|
Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. As a unique alternative, travel back in time to visit an ancient watermill and learn the tradition of breadmaking. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a tasting of local wine and tapas. (B,L,D)
| | OR Blaye Chemin de Fer bike tour |
|
| Bourg | OR Bourg walking tour, Carriage Museum, and WWII Petrol Cistern |
|
Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye along a former railway. Later in the day, you can choose to bike from Blaye through the idyllic French countryside to Bourg. Or, in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles, and the World War II Petrol Cistern. Towards the evening, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Cussac Fort Medoc | Cussac Fort and Vineyards Hike |
|
Cussac-Fort-Medoc is a peaceful commune in southwestern France and your gateway to the famed Médoc region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines. Enjoy a guided hike through this picturesque region, where you will take in the beauty of this fort as well as the verdant vineyards that decorate this breathtaking landscape. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Cadillac | Roquetaillade and Cadillac visit |
|
Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Or, pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Bordeaux | UNESCO city tour and market tasting |
|
| | OR Bordeaux Cité du Vin (wine museum) visit |
|
The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. In the afternoon, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. Alternatively, you can enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Bordeaux | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Loire Valley / Amboise | Hotel check-in |
|
Disembark the ship and transfer to Amboise, with a visit to Cognac en route for lunch and free time before arriving in the Loire Valley, where you will check in to your Amboise hotel. (B)
Day 13 | Amboise | Château de Chenonceau, Clos du Lucé and Château d’Amboise |
|
Visit three of the Loire Valley’s regal châteaux starting with the Château de Chenonceau, one of the most beautiful castles in France. This château has been referred to as the “Women’s Castle” since it is the only castle in the region that has been built, inhabited and saved by women during the Renaissance. Château du Clos Lucé was Leonardo da Vinci’s last home where he completed some of his most famous works under the patronage of the King of France. The Château d’Amboise, perched on a promontory overlooking the Loire River, was the first Renaissance château built in the Loire Valley and features extravagant residences, gardens and a Gothic chapel, where Leonardo da Vinci is buried. (B)
Day 14 | Amboise | Hotel check-out |
|
| Paris | Transfer to Paris; hotel check-in |
|
Check out of your hotel this morning and depart by bus to Chambord, where you will visit the astoundingly massive Château de Chambord. Located at the heart of Europe’s largest enclosed wooded park, its 156-yard façade, 426 rooms, 77 staircases and 282 fireplaces make this the largest castle in Loire Valley. Afterwards, depart for Blois and enjoy free time for lunch on your own. Next, marvel at the residence of seven kings and ten queens of France during your tour of the famous Château Royal de Blois. Then continue by bus to your hotel, located at Charles De Gaulle Airport. (B)
Day 15 | Paris | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home. (B)
B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.
Day 1 | Madrid | Hotel check-in |
|
Check into your hotel for the beginning of your land package in beautiful Spain.
Begin your day in this spectacular Spanish city with a panoramic tour that takes you past some of the city’s most iconic symbols, including the Alcalá Gate and Cibeles Fountain. Drive down Castellana Avenue to see Picasso’s Tower and the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium. Then, embark on a walking tour to see the Royal Palace and stroll through Madrid’s Old Town to Mayor’s Square, brimming with shops, taverns and restaurants, which you will have free time to explore. (B)
Day 3 | Madrid | Hotel check-out |
|
| | Transfer to San Sebastián |
|
| San Sebastian | Hotel check-in |
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Check out of your Madrid hotel and transfer to San Sebastián, where you will have some time to settle into your new hotel. In the evening, take a stroll through Old Town, the second oldest neighborhood in the city, where distinctive architecture and pintxos bars beckon, made even more romantic by the evening light. (B)
Day 4 | San Sebastian | “City by the Bay of Biscay” tour |
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Discover the charms of the “City by the Bay of Biscay.” Known in the Basque language as Donostia, San Sebastián was once a prominent fishing village and was burned to the ground in 1813 after being occupied by Napoleonic troops. However, by 1887, after rebuilding, the city flourished as a popular tourist destination and spa resort. Later in the day, enjoy some free time in the city renowned for holding the second highest number of Michelin stars per square meter. (B)
Day 5 | San Sebastian | Transfer to Bordeaux via Bayonne |
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Check out of your hotel and transfer to Bordeaux via the French Basque town of Bayonne. Later, embark the ship in Bordeaux for your Taste of Bordeaux cruise. (B,D)
Day 6 | Libourne | Saint-Émilion Excursion |
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| | OR Saint-Émilion bike tour |
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Welcome to Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Libourne | Bastide town and market visit |
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| | OR Ancient Watermill Visit and Breadmaking Workshop |
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| | OR Château Boutinet hike with wine and tapas tasting |
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Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. As a unique alternative, travel back in time to visit an ancient watermill and learn the tradition of breadmaking. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards, accompanied by a tasting of local wine and tapas. (B,L,D)
| | OR Blaye Chemin de Fer bike tour |
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| Bourg | OR Bourg walking tour, Carriage Museum, and WWII Petrol Cistern |
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Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye along a former railway. Later in the day, you can choose to bike from Blaye through the idyllic French countryside to Bourg. Or, in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles, and the World War II Petrol Cistern. Towards the evening, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Cussac Fort Medoc | Cussac Fort and Vineyards Hike |
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Cussac-Fort-Medoc is a peaceful commune in southwestern France and your gateway to the famed Médoc region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines. Enjoy a guided hike through this picturesque region, where you will take in the beauty of this fort as well as the verdant vineyards that decorate this breathtaking landscape. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Cadillac | Roquetaillade and Cadillac visit |
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Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Or, pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Bordeaux | UNESCO city tour and market tasting |
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| | OR Bordeaux Cité du Vin (wine museum) visit |
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The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. In the afternoon, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. Alternatively, you can enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Bordeaux | DISEMBARKATION |
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| Paris | Check into your hotel |
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Disembark the ship and transfer by train to beautiful Paris, where you will check into your hotel. (B)
Day 13 | Paris | “City of Light” tour |
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Enjoy taking in the signature sights of Paris during your guided city tour, including the awe-inspiring Arc de Triomphe and iconic Eiffel Tower. You will also see Champs Élysées with its cinemas, sidewalk cafes and luxury specialty shops. (B)
Day 14 | Paris | Evening Montmartre and illuminations tour |
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Revel in the freedom of 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 began calling Montmartre home. Pissarro and Jongkind were two of the first to live there, followed by other notable artists, including Edgar Dega, Henri Matisse, Toulouse-Lautrec, Pierre-August Renoir and Pablo Picasso. You will also be taken on an evening illumination tour, discovering why Paris is renowned as the “City of Light.” (B)
Day 15 | 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.