Explore France

Hospices de Beaune, France

Day 1 Lyon On the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon can be found set across twin hills. Here, you will be met and transferred from the airport to the lush surrounds of the Emerald Liberté Star-Ship.

Day 2 Chalon-sur-Saône – Beaune Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you will have the opportunity to witness the areas 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. A cheese and olive tasting on board Visit the Hospices de Beaune

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 3 Lyon 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 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, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike tour of Lyon. A silk presentation on board A bike tour of Lyon A guided tour of Lyon An excursion to Pérouges

St. Georges, Lyon, France

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 4 Tournon 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. A regional wine lecture on board A guided bike tour to Glun A guided hike through the vineyards A guided tour of Tournon

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner Viviers, France Famous cafe painted by Van Gogh, France

Day 5 Viviers 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 its numerous listed monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades. A guided tour of Viviers A fishing class on the Rhône

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 6 Avignon 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 Rhône. This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. This evening, enjoy a delightful EmeraldPLUS Provençal dining experience, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Provençal dining experience hosted by Chef Fabien Morreale A canoeing excursion in Avignon A guided tour of Avignon A guided tour of the Pont du Gard A classical concert in Avignon

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 7 Arles 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. 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. A guided tour of Arles with arena visit An excursion to Camargue

Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner

Day 8 Arles – Marseille After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark Emerald Liberté, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside and delightful cuisine with you.

Meals: Breakfast

2022 River Cruises

Emerald Stateroom Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

from $3,395pp from $4,045 pp

2023 River Cruises

Emerald Stateroom Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

from $3,595 pp from $4,280 pp

Why not explore further… Extend your stay

Our pre-and post-cruise city stays are perfect for those who want to explore independently and really immerse themselves further into local life. With our Sensations of Lyon & Provence river cruise, you have the option of adding a few extra days to explore Paris, the city of love, discover the quaint surrounds of Aix-en-Provence, or choose a more relaxed stay in Nice, exploring its breathtaking coastline.

Our city stays include breakfast as standard, along with a guided tour, before having plenty of time to explore independently at your own pace. In addition, our hotels have been specially selected for their impeccable service and great locations.

Venture into the city and experience the culture

2-Night Paris City Stay

France’s capital city, Paris, has a proud ancient history with spectacular architecture and monuments, and more recently has become the global center of fashion and gastronomy. As an Emerald Cruises guest, you’ll have the opportunity to spend two nights in the luxury Jardin du Marais hotel - a centrally based hotel perfect for you to explore the cities world-famous attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum and the stunning Musée d’Orsay, as well as a number of World Heritage-listed sites. If you are looking for something other than the tree-lined boulevards and bustling streets, enjoy our included coach tour of the city and a cruise along the glistening waters of France’s second-longest river, the Seine.

See page 22 for more information about our Nice city stay and Aix-en-Provence city stay