Known as the 'City of the Popes', Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture. At the same time, it also has a youthful energy and a buzzing arts scene. Circled by fortified walls, the former papal capital is home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d'Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhone between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea. Scenic Freechoice: Take your pick from this morning's Scenic Freechoices: Walking tour of Avignon including visits to Popes' Palace: From the ship, you will be guided on a walk through Avignon, visiting the historic city walls and the Popes' Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. Avignon is filled with cobblestoned streets and the palace has numerous steps, so a moderate degree of fitness is required for this tour. Excursion to Pont du Gard: Visit the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, on a guided tour. Dating to the middle of the first century, this engineering masterpiece was designed to carry water to the city of Nimes. Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Join your Scenic chef to visit the local market where you will shop for and sample the best ingredients this region has to offer. Return to the ship for an interactive cooking demonstration at Scenic Culinaire. (Please note: Avignon Market is closed on a Monday.) Wine tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape: The fertile banks of the Rhone are peppered with Cote du Rhone vineyards, including at the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOC, where centuries of wine production make for a fascinating history. Take this opportunity to sample some of the region's most celebrated wines that were once known as the 'Wine of Popes'. This afternoon is at your leisure to further explore Avignon at your own pace. If you're feeling energetic, wander up Le Rocher des Doms. Set 30 meters above the river, it offers excellent views over the city as well as a picturesque English-style garden with shady trees, fountains, and ponds. Scenic Enrich Classical concert at the Palais des Papes: When the doors are closed to the general public, step inside Palais des Papes, one of the most visited sites in France which you will have to yourself. Upon arrival, you will be ushered into the grandiose palace for an exclusive classical concert from a trio of musicians and accompanied dinner in the very banquet hall popes once dined. Be immersed in the beauty of famous classical pieces, which gain a new fascinating dimension inside the palace's walls. ...
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