Sensations of Lyon and Provence River Cruise 2021

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Lyon, France.

Welcome to Lyon, at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Upon arrival, you’ll be met by a representative of Mayflower Cruises and Tours and transferred to the Emerald Liberté. Settle into your new surroundings and enjoy dinner onboard as the ship departs for Chalon-Sur-Saône this evening. Meal: D

Chalon–Sur–Saône is best known as the birthplace of photography and the centre of Burgundy’s wine region. Travel by road to the quaint village of Beaune, where you visit the Hospices de Beaune, one of the finest examples of French 15th–century architecture. Marvel at the multi–colored roofs of this former hospital, now a museum, which has become one of the symbols of Burgundy. Meals: B, L, D EmeraldPLUS Cheese and olive tasting onboard

Lyon, France’s third largest city, is steeped in history and a former Roman capital positioned at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Today, take part in the guided tour of Lyon, which starts with a drive to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Lyon’s hilltop church, with stunning views over the town. Then pass by the recently re–discovered Roman amphitheater and walk through the cobbled streets of the old town with its including secret alleyways. Meals: B, L, D EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour DiscoverMORE Tour to Perouges (additional expense)

Join your local guide for a walking tour of Tournon, dominated by the 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. Nestled in the valley near the steep slopes of le Massif Central, France's 3rd largest mountain range, it is picture-perfect. The area has a long tradition in wine making, including the renowned wine growing centre of Tain l'Hermitage across the river. Meals: B, L, D EmeraldACTIVE Guided walk through vineyards EmeraldPLUS Regional wine tasting onboard EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Glun

Arrive in Viviers, a town which still has a lot of flare. Viviers is also the home of one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Join an included city tour exploring all the architectural heritage of this quaint town. Meals: B, L, D DiscoverMORE Tour to Grignan (additional expense)

With a rich history from Celtic beginnings, Avignon is one of the few French cities to have preserved it ramparts, historic center and churches. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is well known for the imposing Palace of the Popes. Your guided walk takes you through this historic center, strolling the cobbled lanes, overlooking the famous ‘Pont d’Avignon’. Meals: B, L, D EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing experience DiscoverMORE Excursion to Pont du Gard (additional expense)

The UNESCO World Heritage Site and Provençal town of Arles combines all of the region’s charms. While strolling through the streets, medieval in character, with the local guide, you’ll discover why the colorful houses were an inspiration to Vincent Van Gogh and other famous artists. See the 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater which is still in use today. Meals: B, L, D EmeraldPLUS Provençale dinner hosted by local Chef Fabien Morreale DiscoverMORE Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (additional expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to the captain and crew as your river cruise comes to end. But your land adventure is just beginning as you journey by coach to Nice on the famed Cote d’Azur. See the old town with its cafés, historic buildings, picturesque harbor and the infamous sea-front promenade. Meals: B, D

After a morning at leisure, depart by coach for the principality of Monaco to visit Monte Carlo on the French Riviera. Home to the Grand Prix, location of numerous movies and playground of the rich and famous – you’re sure to recognize its beautiful setting and famed casino. After some free time to explore, return to Nice for the evening. Meal: B

The final day in Nice is left free of planned activities. Your hospitality representative is at your service to help you plan your day in this vibrant city. Meal: B DiscoverMORE Visit to St. Paul de Vence (additional expense)

It’s time to bid ‘au revoir’ to France and depart to the Nice airport for your flight home. Meal: B