The Tip Of Provence To Lyon On The Rhone And Saone Rivers

We'll cruise towards Port-Saint-Louis. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC: Discover the Camargue. We'll visit a "manade" (bull breeding farm) and learn about how a manadier works with the animals. DISCOVERY: Safari in jeeps through the Camargue for an original immersion in the wilderness.  This afternoon, join us for an excursion for both packages: A guided tour of Marseille. We’ll take you to the main sites, including La Canebière, the Old Port, and the impressive white basilica..

The morning will be dedicated to a visit to Arles and a local olive oil production workshop. Tourists love to visit Arles for two reasons: Its Roman ruins and its ties to Van Gogh. The city oozes Provençal charm, and every corner seems packed with something to see or taste. And speaking of taste, no trip to the south of France would be complete without a visit to a local olive oil manufacturer. Join us this afternoon for a guided tour of Avignon and the Papal Palace. Avignon has had quite a past. The city’s historic centre is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Included in this area is the Papal Palace, one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe and the city’s most famous attraction. Our ship will cruise this evening.

This morning, join us on an excursion for both packages: Discover the Vercors Massif and enjoy a tasting of local sparkling wine (Clairette de Die).* The Vercors Massif contains impressive sites and breathtaking views. We’ll discover many of these on a trip through its natural park. Peaks, trails, rushing streams, steep cliffs, and rolling mountain pastures await. The Vercors Massif was also a strategic location for the French Resistance during World War II. We’ll visit the quaint town of Die—known for its delicious sparkling wine—and enjoy a tasting. After our excursion, we’ll return on board the ship. We’ll spend the afternoon cruising to Lyon, arriving during the evening.

CLASSIC package: Join us for a panoramic tour of Lyon and learn about the discrete and strategic doorways leading to shortcuts, known as traboules, that go from street to street.

DISCOVERY package: Explore Lyon by bike and see its historic monuments and neighborhoods from the saddle before enjoying a tasting in the heart of the Old Town.

Lyon is a remarkably green city and a pleasure to visit, especially on a bike. Its history spans over 2,000 years. The Romans left their footprint in the form of a forum and artifacts. Splendid churches from all eras dot the city hills. The streets are lined with boutiques to poke around in and restaurants waiting to serve their delights.

We'll spend the afternoon cruising the Saône to Mâcon, arriving during the evening.

Excursions proposed:

CLASSIC package: A guided tour of Mâcon. With its colored facades, Mâcon feels like it should be part of Provence. Learn more about this Burgundy city on a tour highlighting its major sites.

DISCOVERY package: A food lover’s tour of Mâcon. Join us for a walking tour of the capital of the Beaujolais wine region and have a taste of some of the local products.

This afternoon, join us for an excursion for both packages: The Beaujolais vineyards. The Beaujolais wine region is tucked in between Lyon and Burgundy. Wines range from the young Beaujolais Nouveau to high-quality crus. Red wines are made mostly from Gamay grapes that create a vibrant, fruity taste. Light and fresh white wines come predominantly from Chardonnay varieties. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. Coach transfer back to Lyon. End of our services.

• Transfers by coach from Lyon to Martigues on D1
• Your cruise with all meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day
• Onboard drinks included (except for drinks from our special lists)
• Double-occupancy cabin with shower in bathroom
• Assistance from our onboard multi-lingual host/hostess
• Welcome cocktail
• Gala dinner
• Onboard entertainment
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees
• Prepaid classic sightseeing package

• Drinks from our special lists, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
• Cancellation and baggage insurance
• Personal expenses