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 & 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 center of Burgundy’s wine region. Travel by coach to the quaint village of Beaune to 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. The city is positioned at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Take part in the guided tour of Lyon, which starts with a drive to the UNESCO World Heritage 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 secret alleyways. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour (instead of included city tour)

EmeraldPLUS Silk presentation onboard

DiscoverMORE Tour to Pérouges (additional expense)

Join your local guide for a walking tour of Tournon, dominated by the 16th-century castle overlooking the village, ancient watchtowers and Roman ruins. Nestled in the valley near the steep slopes of le Massif Central, France’s 3rd largest mountain range, it’s picture-perfect. The area has a long tradition in wine-making, including the renowned wine growing center of Tain l’Hermitage across the river. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike through vineyards (instead of included walking tour)

EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Glun

EmeraldPLUS Regional wine tasting onboard

Arrive in Viviers, a town which still has Middle-Age flair. Viviers is also the home of one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Join an included walking tour exploring all the architectural heritage of this quaint town. Meals: B, L, D

Avignon is one of the few French cities to have preserved its ramparts, historic center and churches. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is well known for the imposing Palace of the Popes. During your guided walk, see the famous ancient stone bridge, ‘Pont d’Avignon’, crossing the Rhône. Marvel at the ornate beauty of the Palace of the Popes and stroll through the historic center. This evening, a Provençal experience awaits as dinner is expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS Provençal dining experience onboard

EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing excursion

DiscoverMORE Excursion to Pont du Gard (additional expense)

DiscoverMORE Classical concert in Avignon (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. Visit the 2,000-year-old Roman amphitheater which is still in use today. Meals: B, L, D

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 for a three-night stay. Meal: B 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. See the impressive Prince’s Palace of Monaco, former home of actress Grace Kelly. After an insightful tour and free time to explore, return to Nice for the remainder of the day at leisure. 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 It’s time to bid ‘au revoir’ to France and depart to the Nice airport for your flight home. Meal: B

 

Itinerary and vessel subject to change.