Tour the scenic capital of the French Riviera, where tourism has been alive for three centuries. Founded by the Greeks and named after the Greek goddess of victory, Nice was once the premier spot for English aristocrats to spend their winter holidays-and is now a world-renowned, top-of-the-range holiday destination. Gaze at the azure waters of the Mediterranean and take in such sites as the distinctive Saint Reparata Cathedral, the Opera House, and the Prefecture Palace. (B) ... Read More
Head to the hilltop town of Eze where you'll enjoy a scenic walking tour along its charming cobblestone streets, as well as free time to sample the local fare for lunch. Later, explore intimate Monaco-Ville, known locally as "The Rock", a sleepy yet picturesque medieval village with phenomenal views of the sea. Then take in the luxury and beauty of Monte Carlo, famous for its opulent casino and as the host of the annual Formula One Monaco Grand Prix. (B) ... Read More
Check out of your Nice hotel and head to Aix-en-Provence, a charming commune just north of Marseille. Enjoy a tour of the city with its sidewalk cafes, many fountains, and Old Town before embarking your ship in Arles for the beginning of your river cruise. (B,D)
Arles, France
Embark your ship in Arles, France for your Essence of Burgundy and Provence river cruise. (D)
Friday - Apr 26, 2024
Day 5
Arles, France
Avignon, France
Arles is considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Let your experienced guide lead you to the top sights, including the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater. Or, if you 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. Alternatively, you may take a guided bike tour through town. Later in the day, enjoy a walking tour in Avignon, aptly named the "City of Popes", that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more flavorful experience, visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades. During the evening, enjoy a cruise around the illuminated Pont du Gard, the mighty aqueduct bridge built by 1st-century Romans. (B,L,D) ... Read More
Saturday - Apr 27, 2024
Day 6
Viviers, France
Viviers is a charming medieval city with picturesque 16th- and 18th-century monuments. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle-friendly city. Alternatively, you can go to 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. Or, go on a scenic hike and enjoy a memorable view of Viviers. Conclude the day's adventure with a panoramic cruise around the historical city. (B,L,D) ... Read More
Sunday - Apr 28, 2024
Day 7
Vienne, France
Lyon, France
Vienne boasts a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. There, you can enjoy a guided walking tour around the city. 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 ViaRhona bike route. Later in the day, discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourviere 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 Fourviere. 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". If you're a self-described foodie, a Vieux Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you'll have a chance to taste some of Lyon's local delights. Or get active on a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. (B,L,D) ... Read More
Monday - Apr 29, 2024
Day 8
Macon, France
Tournus, France
Join a guided tour through the "South Burgundy City" of Macon, 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. 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. Later in the day, enjoy a panoramic view from the Sun Deck as you sail to Tournus, or opt for a bike ride from Macon to Tournus. Or, enjoy a delicious tasting of the region's famous white Maconnais wines. (B,L,D) ... Read More
Tuesday - Apr 30, 2024
Day 9
Tournus, France
Bus Travel
Chateau de Cormatin, France
Bus Travel
Tournus, France
Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore Tournus. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Chateau 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 scenic cruising as you sail toward Chalon-sur-Saone, or opt for a bike tour if you're feeling adventurous. (B,L,D) ... Read More
Wednesday - May 1, 2024
Day 10
Chalon-sur-Saone, France
Bus Travel
Beaune, France
Bus Travel
Chalon-sur-Saone, France
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Cote Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-sur-Saone whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. You'll also stop at a local market where you can see and taste some of the local fare. Alternatively, choose an excursion in 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 Hotel-Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Later in the day, treat your palate to a tasting of Chalonnaise wines. (B,L,D) ... Read More
Thursday - May 2, 2024
Day 11
Dijon, France
Disembark your ship and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
Dijon, France
Cruise Ends
Land Segment of Itinerary
Day 11 - Thursday - May 2, 2024
Day 11
Bus Travel
Geneva, Switzerland
Disembark your ship and visit stunning Dijon, France, and enjoy a walking tour of the wonderfully picturesque capital of the historic Burgundy region. Renowned for its traditional mustard, Dijon also boasts one of the best-preserved medieval centers in France, with postcard-perfect architecture, including the Cathedral of Saint-Benigne de Dijon and grand Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy. Following your tour, spend free time at your own leisure. Later, transfer to Geneva, Switzerland, and check into your hotel. ... Read More
Friday - May 3, 2024
Day 12
Geneva, Switzerland
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)
Saturday - May 4, 2024
Day 13
Geneva, Switzerland
Bus Travel
Annecy, France
Bus Travel
Chateau de Chillon, Switzerland
Bus Travel
Geneva, Switzerland
Venture south to the "Pearl of the French Alps", Annecy, on your morning excursion. Home to beautiful castles, including the Chateau d'Annecy, home to the Counts of Geneva, and natural green spaces with bike trails winding through along the lake. Later in the day, 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) ... Read More
Sunday - May 5, 2024
Day 14
Geneva, Switzerland
Bid farewell to Geneva and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
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