Aix-en-Provence with Sensations of Lyon & Provence

10 Days
Lyon to Nice
From (AUD)
$ 5,310
Dates & Pricing

2024 Lyon > Nice

Discover the magic of France by river

The Rhône and Saône rivers meander through the picturesque south of France, where you’ll discover picture-perfect villages, palaces and Roman ruins, and delicious Provençal cuisine.
It is no surprise that the South of France is recognized as the birthplace of photography, its unrivalled beauty comprises the finest examples of French 15th century architecture, with Roman ruins and sun-soaked vineyards nestled at the foot of colossal mountain ranges. Journey to the country’s gastronomic beating heart, Lyon, before enjoying an authentic Provençal dinner on board, hosted by renowned French chef, Fabien Morreale.
Tour Map
Tour Code:
EFRA
Duration:
10 days
Departure City:
Lyon
Return City:
Nice

10 Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1 - Lyon

    Welcome to Lyon, on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by a member of our friendly greetings team and transferred to the contemporary surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.

    Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 04:30 PM.

    Meals Included: Dinner

  2. Day 2 - Chalon-sur-Saône – Beaune

    Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the area’s architectural heritage and peaceful surrounds as you travel to the quaint village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune. Originally a hospital for the poor, the Hospices de Beaune is now home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions.

    EmeraldPLUS

    Cheese and olive tasting on board

    Included Excursion

    Visit to the Hospices de Beaune

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  3. Day 3 - Lyon

    France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you'll enjoy an array of exemplary culinary delights.

    Today, a guided city tour awaits you, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore the highlights of the city on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon.

    EmeraldACTIVE

    Guided bike tour of Lyon

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Lyon

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    Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  4. Day 4 - Tournon

    The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers.

    Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the local vineyards and marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes used to make some of the finest wines in Europe.

    Later, a guided bike tour to Glun will showcase rural life in the French countryside.

    EmeraldPLUS

    Regional wine tasting on board

    EmeraldACTIVE

    Guided bike tour to Glun

    EmeraldACTIVE

    Guided hike through the vineyards

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Tournon

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  5. Day 5 - Viviers

    Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will highlight many of the city’s numerous spectacular monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades.

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Viviers

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  6. Day 6 - Avignon

    Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution.

    Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. In the afternoon, the beauty of Avignon is yours to leisurely explore. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale.

    EmeraldPLUS

    Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

    EmeraldACTIVE

    Canoeing excursion in Avignon

    DiscoverMORE

    Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE

    Classical concert in Avignon (extra expense)

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Avignon

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. Day 7 - Arles

    The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries.

    Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, where a stop at a local and quintessential café is a must before returning to relax on board your Star-Ship.

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Arles with arena visit

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    Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  8. Day 8 - Arles – Aix-en-Provence

    Transfer to your centrally located hotel in Aix-en-Provence. Enjoy a guided tour of Aix-en-Provence, as you stroll down leafy green boulevards and admire the 17th & 18th century mansions that adorn the city’s many public squares. The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend exploring Aix-en-Provence at leisure, perhaps sitting in one of its delightful café terraces and soaking in sights of manicured gardens and ornate fountains.

    Included Excursion

    A guided tour of Aix-en-Provence

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  9. Day 9 - Aix-en-Provence

    Today is yours to explore Aix-en-Provence at leisure. Your hospitality representative will be available to help you.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

  10. Day 10 - Aix-en-Provence - Nice

    After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of Lyonnais cuisine and open leafy boulevards with you.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

Tour inclusions

YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES
  • 7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
  • Visit to the Hospices de Beaune
  • Guided tour of Lyon
  • Guided tour of Tournon
  • Guided tour of Viviers
  • Guided tour of Avignon
  • Guided tour of Arles with arena visit

EmeraldPLUS
  • Cheese and olive tasting on board
  • Regional wine tasting on board
  • Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

EmeraldACTIVE
  • Guided bike tour of Lyon
  • Guided hike through the vineyards in Tournon
  • Guided bike tour to Glun
  • Hike in Viviers
  • Canoeing excursion in Avignon

DINING HIGHLIGHTS
  • 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board

EXTENSION INCLUSIONS
  • 2 nights at a hotel in Aix-en-Provence
  • A guided tour of Aix-en-Provence
  • Transfer from the ship and to the airport
  • 2 Breakfasts (B)

Pricing & Availability