Essence of Burgundy & Provence (Smithsonian Journeys)

PORT OF DIJON - EMBARKATION. Settle aboard your elegant ship in Dijon, a city that blends historic grace with modern French life. The adventure begins with the soft glow of evening light and the promise of vineyards, villages, and Provençal charm ahead.

CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE – TOURNUS, FRANCE. Explore the heart of southern Burgundy with visits to medieval Chalon-sur-Saône, the wine town of Beaune, or ancient Autun. As a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, wander cobblestone streets, admire the famed Hôtel-Dieu’s mosaic roof, and stand before Roman and Romanesque masterpieces like Autun’s grand theater and the Cathedral of Saint-Lazare. Later, enjoy a scenic sail to Tournus or taste the celebrated white wines of the Mâconnais region.

TOURNUS – MÂCON, FRANCE. Discover Tournus and Mâcon with guided tours of the Abbey of Saint Philibert, the moated Château de Cormatin, or the medieval village of Brancion. Choose a scenic cruise, a guided bike ride between the towns, or a local wine tasting before rejoining the ship in Mâcon.

MÂCON, FRANCE. Explore Mâcon’s vineyards, museums, and historic sites, or visit Cluny Abbey, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, as a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, discover the 17th-century Château de Fléchères with its grand salons, Italian frescoes, and beautiful gardens. End your day with scenic cruising and an exclusive Beaujolais wine tasting experience. 

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

LYON – VIENNE, FRANCE. Discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” Or get active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. If you’re a self-described foodie, our Vieux Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights. There you can enjoy a guided walking tour around the city. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route or a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet. (B,L,D)

VIENNE - VIVIERS, FRANCE. Cruise to Viviers and explore its medieval streets by foot or bike, or visit the hilltop village of Grignan. Enjoy a truffle hunt with a local farmer and his dog, then stroll the town with guides in Renaissance costume bringing history and legends to life.

Viviers, France, is a charming medieval town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, it features narrow, winding streets, ancient stone houses, and the impressive Saint-Vincent Cathedral. The town's Roman and medieval heritage is evident in its old ramparts and historic buildings. Viviers' tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings offer a glimpse into the past, making it a delightful destination for history lovers and those seeking a serene escape.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

AVIGNON - ARLES, FRANCE. Explore Avignon, the “City of Popes,” with a guided tour of the Papal Palace and medieval walls, or savor regional specialties like macarons, cheese, and wine. Continue to Arles to see Roman ruins, a Romanesque cathedral, or follow Van Gogh’s footsteps on a guided art tour, with optional biking through the city.

Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

ARLES – DISEMBARKATION. Bid farewell to Arles and prepare for your return flight home. (B)

B,L,D – Indicates Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner are included on this day.