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 Waterways 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.
After breakfast, you will be transferred from Paris to Lyon by rail. When you arrive, you will be welcomed onboard your luxurious Emerald Waterways Star-Ship by your captain and crew. This evening, enjoy your first dinner onboard with your fellow guests.
Sunday - May 25, 2025
Day 4
Chalon-sur-Saone, France
Bus Travel
Beaune, France
Bus Travel
Chalon-sur-Saone, France
Chalon-sur-Saone 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, and now home to one of Burgundy's most popular wine auctions. ... Read More
Monday - May 26, 2025
Day 5
Lyon, France
France's third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country and the home of traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Today, enjoy a guided tour of Lyon, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourviere, 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, embark on a guided bike tour of Lyon. ... Read More
Tuesday - May 27, 2025
Day 6
Tournon-sur-Rhone, France
The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhone, 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. ... Read More
Wednesday - May 28, 2025
Day 7
Viviers, France
Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France's oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour of Viviers will showcase some of its numerous listed monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish facades.
Thursday - May 29, 2025
Day 8
Avignon, France
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 of Avignon 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 Rhone. This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. This evening, return to your Star-Ship for a delightful Provencal dining experience, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. ... Read More
Friday - May 30, 2025
Day 9
Arles, France
The past is yours to discover in Arles, once an 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 the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles, showcasing 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 cafe or returning to your Star-Ship to relax onboard. ... Read More
After breakfast, it's time to disembark the ship for your transfer to Nice, where you will be taken to your centrally located hotel. Included is a three-night stay in the sun-kissed capital of the Cote d'Azur.
Today, the stunning seaside surrounds of the French Riviera are yours to explore with your local guide, before spending the afternoon exploring at leisure. You will be taken to Monte Carlo for an insightful tour. Famously portrayed in films that include Never Say Never Again and To Catch a Thief, Monte Carlo offers much in the way of its charming past. Witness the impressive Prince's Palace of Monaco, originally a Genoese fortress with a dramatic past and the home of beloved actress Grace Kelly. ... Read More
Nice has long held a reputation for its glamour, where sun-kissed beaches and lavish surrounds create a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other. Today, explore Nice at leisure. Your Emerald Waterways representative will be available to help you to plan your day in this vibrant city.
After breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare to be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of Roman amphitheatres and the lush surrounds of the French Riviera with you. 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. ... Read More
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Pricing Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise indicated above, all cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise-only without airfare, do not include government taxes and fees and quoted in in U.S. dollars. Ponant Cruises rates are based on foreign currencies that are converted to USD based on today's exchange rates. Rates are subject to availability, can vary by ship and sailing date, and for new bookings only. Fares are capacity controlled, and subject to change without notice. Port charges are included. Prices do not include additional service charges; Travel Insurance; and applicable government taxes & fees unless otherwise specified in the offer. Surcharges and fees implemented by a travel supplier, even after the reservation is made, will be the sole responsibility of each traveler and is due and payable in full prior to departure. Certain promotions which may include amenities like shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities, drink packages or other packages may be available by category, room type or fare code and may not be combinable with other promotions. For any questions, please consult one of our cruise specialists for applicability and verification. All prices, inclusions & promotions listed on the web-site are current at the time they we published and are subject to change without advance notice. Arrivia, Inc., its subsidiaries, and partners are not responsible for last minute changes to price or itinerary by cruise lines, or for any errors or omissions in the content of this website.