Sensations of Lyon and Provence with Swiss Mountains

Your enthralling journey begins in Switzerland and Lausanne, a charming city set beside Lake Geneva and surrounded by mountains, where French-Swiss elegance and history meet breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arrival in Lausanne, you’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to your centrally-located hotel, where you’ll enjoy an included four-night stay. This evening, meet your tour director and fellow guests for a welcome drink.

Take in the natural beauty and historic sights of Lausanne on today’s included tours. Later, you may choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion or continue exploring the city at leisure. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your explorations in Lausanne.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lausanne
Today, explore the historic old centre of Lausanne with your tour director. During a guided walking tour, you'll stroll along the picturesque waterfront and then embark on a captivating boat cruise on Lake Geneva, taking in the breathtaking mountain and lake scenery. You'll also visit the iconic Chateau Chillon, a striking medieval castle steeped in history and legends, that rests on the shores of Lake Geneva.

EmeraldPLUS
Visit to Chateau Chillon & Lake Geneva cruise
Discover the beauty of Château de Chillon, a medieval fortress on the shores of Lake Geneva, and explore its rich history with a guided tour. Walk through its impressive rooms, towers, and dungeons, while learning about its fascinating past. After your castle visit, embark on a relaxing Lake Geneva cruise, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and picturesque lakeside villages, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

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Tastes of Lausanne (extra expense)
Discover the refined flavours of Lausanne on a tasting journey that pairs the city’s culinary elegance with its celebrated wines. Indulge in creamy Swiss cheeses and velvety chocolates, complemented by a glass of local wine that captures the essence of the region. This experience is a true celebration of the Swiss rich gastronomic heritage.
Duration: 1.5 hours, Activity level: Easy

Today, you're free to explore Lausanne and the wealth of French-Swiss wonders at your own pace. You may wish to wander the medieval city centre and along its quaint streets and alleys, lined with delightful cafés and boutiques. Be sure to stop and admire the city’s 12th-century cathedral, regarded as Switzerland’s most impressive piece of early Gothic architecture. Or perhaps pay a visit to the Olympic Museum and lakeside Olympic Park.

You can also choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan a wonderful day in Lausanne.

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Visit to Gruyere & Maison Cailler (extra expense)
On this full day excursion, you’ll experience the charm of the medieval town of Gruyère, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Explore the historic Gruyère Castle and stroll through the town’s picturesque streets, soaking up the traditional Swiss atmosphere.

Next, indulge in the world-famous flavours of Swiss chocolate with a visit to Maison Cailler, Switzerland’s oldest chocolate factory. Learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy a delicious tasting of premium chocolates that have been crafted for generations.
Duration: 7 hours, Activity level: Moderate

Enjoy a memorable full-day excursion, combining a panoramic train ride from Montreux to Gstaad, followed by a thrilling experience at Glacier 3000.

Included Excursion
Panoramic train from Montreux to Gstaad & visit to Glacier 3000
Embark on a panoramic journey from Montreux to Gstaad, nestled amidst the soaring Swiss Alps. Board the charming train and admire the magnificent panoramic views as you ascend to this world-famous alpine village. From Gstaad, take a thrilling cable-car ride to Glacier 3000, a glacial paradise offering spectacular vistas, exciting activities that include the Peak Walk by Tissot, and the chance to encounter Alpine animals at the Glacier Garden.

This morning, after breakfast, you'll bid a fond farewell to Lausanne and transfer onwards by coach to France and Lyon, ready for your next inspirational journey. As you embark on your luxury Emerald Star-Ship in Lyon, you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by the friendly captain and crew. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow guests on board.

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, 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.

The third-largest city in France and a flourishing trading city since Roman times, the stunning city of Lyon is steeped in history. With its superbly preserved historic quarters, a significant section of Lyon has been designated a World Heritage-listed Site, which contains the emblematic Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Lyon is arguably most famous for its outstanding cuisine and culinary heritage, considered the heart of gastronomy in France and one of the world’s premier food capitals. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to sample an array of exceptional culinary delights, accompanied by some of Europe’s finest wines.  

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon with cheese tasting
Discover the gastronomic heart of France on a flavourful journey through Lyon. Wander through the city’s charming streets with a local expert and explore the traditions and specialties that shaped its renowned culinary culture. The highlight of today’s tour is a guided visit to the incredible Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, an iconic city market showcasing the excellence of French cuisine. Meet dedicated artisans, observe their craft, and learn the stories behind Lyon’s celebrated gastronomic heritage. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of some of the region’s outstanding artisan cheeses–a rich, immersive culinary experience for food lovers.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Lyon
For those feeling more energetic, explore the highlights of Lyon on two wheels, as part of a guided e-bike tour through this enchanting city.

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Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
Located on a small hill overlooking the Ain River valley north of Lyon, this compact medieval walled town thrives on its local wine and weaving industries. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, a variety of fascinating buildings, including a fortified church and the house of the Princes of Savoy, invite you to stroll the quaint cobblestone streets. Explore from the upper gate to the 15th-century church, the main street ‘Rue des Rondes’, passing the 33-metre-deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice, distinctive with its round tower. A lovely place to relax with a drink, you’ll soon understand why this picturesque location has been used as the backdrop for numerous films, including the French classic, ‘The Three Musketeers.’

Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, the Beaujolais region is well-known for its distinctive wines produced here, particularly the world-famous Beaujolais Nouveau. The Beaujolais wine region is renowned for its vibrant, fruity wines produced with the Gamay grape variety. The extensive planting of Gamay grapes makes Beaujolais one of several regions across the world that focus solely on a single grape variety. Red wine accounts for 99 percent of the total wine production in the Beaujolais wine region.

Included Excursion
Beaujolais wine tasting
Journey through the rolling hills and charming villages of the Beaujolais region, a landscape shaped by centuries of winemaking traditions. Accompanied by a local wine expert, explore the area’s distinctive terroirs that give Beaujolais its lively, expressive character — from fresh, fruit-forward crus to elegant, refined vintages. Enjoy guided tastings as you uncover the craftsmanship, history, and passion behind each pour. A refined and engaging experience created especially for wine lovers.

Today, you’ll arrive in Tournon, a charming village that borders the gently meandering Rhône. Picturesque Tournon is dominated by a 16th-century castle that overlooks the village and several iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers and impressive Roman relics.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon with wine tasting
Led by an expert local guide, enjoy a walking tour that highlights the village’s intangible cultural heritage. You’ll also learn about the area’s rich history of viticulture and enjoy a special wine tasting of the local varieties.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards
Alternatively, for those feeling more active, join a guided hike through the verdant local vineyards. As you take in the bucolic splendour that surrounds you, marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes that are selected to produce some of the finest wines in Europe. 

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.

Welcome to Viviers, a small walled village in southern France that dates back to ancient Roman times. This delightful village is best known for its impressive medieval cathedral – one of the oldest in France – as well as romantic views across the beautiful Rhône River.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers
Today, your included walking tour with a local guide through charming Viviers will highlight many of the village’s striking monuments, distinctive for their ornate windows and lavish façades.

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Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)
Embark on a transformative journey as you delve into the fascinating Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum, an awe-inspiring testament to the indomitable spirit of human creativity. Let the luminosity of knowledge guide your steps as you traverse this cavernous expanse. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide who breathes life into the ancient canvases that adorn the largest decorated cave replica in the world.

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.

Set along the banks of the Rhône River in the celebrated region of Provence, the fortified city of Avignon bears a rich and illustrious history – from Celtic beginnings to the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. This legacy is evident today in the massive Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace), which is surrounded by medieval stone ramparts and an assortment of grand palaces and courtyards. Avignon also played a significant role in the nation-defining French Revolution during the late 18th century.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon with market visit
Discover the charm of Avignon on a guided walk through its historic streets, from medieval ramparts to lively local squares. Today’s walk leads you into the vibrant Les Halles d’Avignon, the city’s covered market, where colourful stalls and Provençal aromas capture the spirit of southern France. Learn about regional traditions, daily life, and the city’s rich heritage as your guide brings Avignon’s stories to life. Enjoy a delightful immersion in the culture and evocative atmosphere at the heart of Provence. 

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef, Fabien Morreale
This evening, you’ll enjoy an exclusive Provençal dining experience on board your Emerald Star-Ship, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. This celebrated French chef will prepare a special Provençal dinner menu just for you to enjoy and savour the authentic flavours of the gastronomic region of Provence, paired with fine wines.  

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon
After your exclusive Provençal dinner, later this evening, you’re invited to another unforgettable experience: an exclusive classical concert performed within the halls of one of the ancient churches in Avignon.

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Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
At the heart of Provence, the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard Aqueduct presents one of humankind’s great masterpieces. Technically and architecturally impressive, this three-level Roman aqueduct served as an aqueduct until the 6th century A.D., transporting thousands of gallons of water per day. Later, it was used as a toll gate before transforming into a road bridge. On this fascinating guided tour, you’ll also visit the small Roman town of Uzès. Explore the circular streets that once protected the medieval castle and sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine in the local restaurants.

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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
Enjoy sampling some of the local wines during a private tasting within the delightful village of Chateauneuf du Pape, known for its fine red wines, storied viticulture and charming medieval lanes.

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.

The glorious past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who liberally peppered the city with iconic monuments that are still clearly evident today.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
Today, your included tour of this city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries. Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh; some of his legendary artwork was inspired by the dazzling beauty of the surrounding area. 

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh with a painting workshop (extra expense)
Follow in the footsteps of celebrated artist Vincent van Gogh as you explore the beautiful landscapes that inspired his iconic works. Afterwards, take part in a painting workshop, where you’ll try your hand at recreating the vibrant scenes that captured the artist’s imagination. You’ll get to keep your own masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s legacy and then take this home as a unique souvenir to keep.

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Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)
Set at the heart of the Alpilles regional country park, the World Heritage-listed Les Baux de Provence is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Situated at a fortified rocky site between Arles and St. Remy-de-Provence, explore the Old Village with its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval stone buildings. Compact and brimming with shops and restaurants, the village retains a traditional lifestyle while being regarded as an outstanding attraction. The high, rocky pinnacle of Château-Fortress des Baux extends to the southwest of the village and reveals incredible views from the hilltop.

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.

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside, exceptional gastronomic and world-famous wines.

Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles' chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d'Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighboring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice's most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice's port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the "Family Plus" label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.