Day
1 Depart the USA
Depart the USA on your overnight
flight to Nice, France.
Day
2 Nice, France
Welcome to Nice! Upon arrival, you will
be met at the airport by a representative of Mayflower Cruises
and Tours and transferred to the hotel. A three-night stay
awaits in this fascinating city on the French Riviera and the
sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur.
Day
3 Monte Carlo / Nice
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 to 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
Day
4 Nice
The final day in Nice is left free of planned
activities. A hospitality representative is at your service to help
you plan your day in this vibrant city. Meal: B
Day
5 Nice – Arles
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell
to the French Riviera and journey by motorcoach to Arles
where the captain and crew welcome you aboard the Emerald
Liberté – home for the next seven nights. Settle into your new
surroundings and enjoy dinner onboard as the vessel remains
docked in Arles overnight. Meals: B, D
Day
6 Arles
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. This evening, a Provençal experience awaits as dinner
is hosted by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Meals: B, L, D
Day
7 Avignon
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. Meals: B, L, D
Day
8 Viviers
Arrive in Viviers, a town which still has
Middle-Age flair. Join an included walking tour exploring the
architectural heritage of this quaint town.
Day
9 Tournon
As the vessel sails along the gently winding
Rhône River, the landscape of Tournon comes into view.
Nestled in the valley near the steep slopes of le Massif Central,
France’s 3rd largest mountain range, it’s picture-perfect.
During the included tour, a local guide leads you on a walk
through Tournon, which is dominated by the 16th-century
castle overlooking the village, ancient watchtowers and Roman
ruins. The area has a long tradition in wine making, including
the renowned wine growing center of Tain l’Hermitage across
the river.
Day
10 Lyon
France’s third largest city, Lyon 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 includes 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 and architectural wonders.
Day
11 Chalon-Sur-Saône /Beaune / Lyon
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. The ship
sails back to Lyon this evening.
Day
12 Lyon / USA
After breakfast, it’s time to bid ‘au revoir’
to France and depart to the Lyon airport for your flight home.
Flights to depart Lyon after 12:00pm