Paris & Sensations of Lyon and Provence

Let a truly Parisian atmosphere clock you today as you are welcomed to the postcard-worthy French capital. You will be met at the airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your centrally-located hotel, nestled amidst open boulevards and some of the city’s iconic highlights.

Today, a knowledgeable local guide will introduce you to the best that Paris has to offer, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. Later, board a charming river cruise on the Seine and enjoy sailing to the Eiffel Tower.

Meals Included: Breakfast

After breakfast, you will be transferred from Paris to Lyon by rail. When you arrive, you will be welcomed on board your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship by your captain and crew. This evening, enjoy your first dinner on board with your fellow guests.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country, home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.
Today, enjoy a guided city tour, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers.
Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through some of the local vineyards.
Later, a guided bike tour to Glun will showcase rural life in the French countryside.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will showcase some of its numerous listed monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of the Pope and central to the French Revolution. 
Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. Then, the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. 
This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries.
Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps stopping at a local café or returning to your Star-Ship to relax on board.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside and delightful cuisine with you. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Marseille after 11:00 AM.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Meals Included: Breakfast