Sensations of Lyon and Provence with Swiss Mountains

Since being designated a European Capital of Culture for 2013, with an estimated €660 million of funding in the bargain, Marseille has been in the throes of an extraordinary transformation, with no fewer than five major new arts centers, a beautifully refurbished port, revitalized neighborhoods, and a slew of new shops and restaurants. Once the underdog, this time-burnished city is now welcoming an influx of weekend tourists who have colonized entire neighborhoods and transformed them into elegant pieds-à-terre (or should we say, mer). The second-largest city in France, Marseille is one of Europe's most vibrant destinations. Feisty and fond of broad gestures, it is also as complicated and as cosmopolitan now as it was when a band of Phoenician Greeks first sailed into the harbor that is today's Vieux Port in 600 BC. Legend has it that on that same day a local chieftain's daughter, Gyptis, needed to choose a husband, and her wandering eyes settled on the Greeks' handsome commander Protis. Her dowry brought land near the mouth of the Rhône, where the Greeks founded Massalia, the most important Continental shipping port in antiquity. The port flourished for some 500 years as a typical Greek city, enjoying the full flush of classical culture, its gods, its democratic political system, its sports and theater, and its naval prowess. Caesar changed all that, besieging the city in 49 BC and seizing most of its colonies. In 1214 Marseille was seized again, this time by Charles d'Anjou, and was later annexed to France by Henri IV in 1481, but it was not until Louis XIV took the throne that the biggest transformations of the port began; he pulled down the city walls in 1666 and expanded the port to the Rive Neuve (New Riverbank). The city was devastated by plague in 1720, losing more than half its population. By the time of the Revolution, Marseille was on the rebound once again, with industries of soap manufacturing and oil processing flourishing, encouraging a wave of immigration from Provence and Italy. With the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, Marseille became the greatest boomtown in 19th-century Europe. With a large influx of immigrants from areas as exotic as Tangiers, the city quickly acquired the multicultural population it maintains to this day.

Welcome to France and the beginning of your cruise. You’ll be met by a member of our team at the airport and transferred to Arles, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship. Your ship will remain docked in Arles overnight, giving you time to explore the city at your leisure.

Emerald Cruises transfers are only available for flights arriving into Marseille prior to 04:30 PM.

Emerald Cruises transfers are only available for flights arriving into Nice prior to 12:00PM. Please contact us if you wish to secure this option.

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.

The past is yours to uncover in Arles. The city was once an important Phoenician trading port, before being captured by the Romans, who peppered the region with iconic monuments. It has been a favourite retreat for legendary artists like Van Gogh and Gauguin, drawn to its unique light and arresting beauty. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dine with your fellow guests. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
Discover Arles’ remarkable Roman heritage on a guided walking tour through one of France’s best-preserved ancient cities. Stroll past iconic landmarks such as the Roman Amphitheatre, ancient forum, and Roman baths, while learning how Arles once thrived as a major outpost of the Roman Empire. Along winding streets and sun-washed squares, history comes alive through stories of emperors, gladiators, and everyday life in Roman Gaul. 

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh with a painting workshop (extra expense)
Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh as you explore the 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. As a memory from this unique experience, you get to bring home your own masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s legacy.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

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Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense) Set in the heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, Les Baux de Provence is a World Heritage-listed site, recognised for being ‘one of the most beautiful villages in France’. Compact, with several shops and restaurants, the village retains its traditional style, with its narrow cobblestone streets and grey medieval stone buildings. The high, rocky pinnacle of Château-Fortress des Baux extends southwest of the village, and the incredible views make the trip very worthwhile. Activity Level: Difficult / Active  Duration: 4 hours 

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Lavender Distillery – from Field to Perfume (extra expense)
Experience the timeless art of Provençal soap-making in this hands-on workshop. Learn the traditional techniques used to create luxurious soaps from natural ingredients like olive oil, lavender, and other local botanicals. Create your own artisanal soap, guided by expert craftsmen, and take home a unique, fragrant souvenir of your Provençal experience.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration 3 hours

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 has a rich history, from its Celtic beginnings to its powerful position as the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. It’s most famous for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as other glorious medieval architecture and a world-renowned arts festival. The city also played a significant role in the French Revolution, resulting in several violent conflicts.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon
Explore the World Heritage-listed highlights that adorn Avignon’s ancient town centre, as you venture down its cobbled alleyways. Witness the splendour of the Pont d’Avignon, a 12th-century bridge, and soak in sights of some of the medieval architecture that generously pepper the city.

EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon
Choose an active way to explore the region. Travel north of Avignon to board a canoe and paddle back towards town along the Rhône River. The wide, calm waters are ideal for canoeing, and you’ll get to take in the picturesque landscapes from a completely new perspective. You’ll even get to paddle beneath the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval landmark.

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Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
In the heart of Provence, the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct is one of humankind’s great masterpieces. This three-level Roman aqueduct is 275 metres long and 48 metres high, and served as an aqueduct until the sixth century. Later, it was used as a toll gate, before being transformed into a road bridge. As well as marvelling at this wonderful feat of engineering, you’ll visit the small Roman town of Uzès, ideal for exploring and enjoying some great food in the local restaurants.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 4.5 hours 

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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
The appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the most famous in France, known for its warm red blends and creamy whites. The village itself has centuries of history that will charm and delight, including the picturesque ruins of a 14th-century castle. Enjoy a curated tasting of the region’s famous wines at a local vineyard.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.25 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale
This evening, you'll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Dine on authentic dishes that celebrate the flavours of the region and its abundant fresh produce. Chef Fabien brings his passion for food to the table during this immersive dining experience, where he engages guests and shares his extensive knowledge and passion for Provençal cuisine.

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon
Enjoy a private classical concert set within a historic chapel where centuries-old stone walls create exceptional acoustics and a truly atmospheric setting. As the gentle light glows and music fills the space, a talented local trio performs timeless works, offering a moment of elegance, reflection, and cultural immersion. This exclusive experience blends Provence’s rich heritage with the beauty of live classical music for an unforgettable evening.

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.

Arrive in Viviers today, a walled town with Middle Age flair that’s home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals, with parts dating back to the 12th century. In its charming centre, pastel-coloured buildings gently faded by the sun line narrow cobblestone streets, dotted with tiny shops and leafy squares. The town is part of the Provence region of southern France and is known for its natural beauty, relaxed ambience and sunny Mediterranean climate. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers
Your included tour of the town follows a unique heritage discovery trail that touches on many of its iconic monuments. Admire its architectural treasures, including the Maison des Chevaliers, a lavishly decorated Roman house with an extravagant Renaissance façade. 

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Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)
Embark on a transformative journey as you delve into the mesmerising depths of the 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 the cavernous expanse with a local guide who breathes life into the ancient canvases that adorn the largest decorated cave replica in the world.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône and is dominated by a 16th-century castle that overlooks the village. Within, there are several iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers and a lush botanic garden. Part of the Rhône Valley, the village is surrounded by vineyards producing some of the world’s finest reds. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon
Join your local guides to walk through Tournon as they unveil fascinating local history and offer insight into the traditions of viticulture. Admire its Roman ruins and Renaissance monuments, then marvel at the world’s oldest suspension bridge with cables. Afterwards, there are many local stores and coffee shops to visit during your time at leisure.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards
Embark on an active hike through the beautiful vineyards that surround Tournon, known for their fine syrah, marsanne and roussanne. A local guide will lead you through vineyards close to where your Emerald Star-Ship has docked, taking in the spectacular views of the Rhone River. On your way back, you may stop at a local chocolate maker for a tasting and shopping of renowned French chocolate.

Relax as you cruise along the Sâone River until you reach the lovely town of Mâcon. This could be a good time to explore what your Emerald Star-Ship has to offer, like the Sun Deck, putting green and indoor swimming pool with retractable rooftop. Founded by the Celts and developed by the Romans, Mâcon is at the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The extensive planting of Gamay grapes makes Beaujolais one of just a few regions on the planet to focus on a single grape variety. It’s also worth noting that red wine accounts for 99% of its total wine production.

Included Excursion
Beaujolais wine tasting
Experience the flavours of the renowned Beaujolais region with a guided wine tasting. Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, Beaujolais is famous for its vibrant, fruit-forward wines, particularly the Beaujolais Nouveau. Visit a local vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a selection of wines that capture the essence of this picturesque region. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this tasting offers a fascinating introduction to the world of Beaujolais wines.

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.

France’s third-largest city, Lyon, is a former Roman capital and steeped in history. Set on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, it's considered the gastronomic heartbeat of the country thanks to its rich culinary heritage, abundant fresh produce and famous local chefs. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, bustling food markets and more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, you'll be able to experience an array of cultural and culinary delights.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon Enjoy a guided coach tour of Lyon, starting at Fourvières Hill to view the ancient Roman Theatre. Pass by the Romanesque and Byzantine Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an impressive building that strayed away from the popular Gothic models of the same period. Join your guide on a walk through the city’s hidden passageways (called traboules) and admire the Renaissance-era houses. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Lyon For guests who choose an active excursion over the standard city tour, meet your local guides for an e-bike discovery. Ride to the green lungs of the city, the famous Parc de la Tête d'Or, which was inaugurated in 1857, the same year as Central Park in New York. The largest urban park in France, it contains an impressive collection of more than 15,000 species of plants. The tour will take in the Tête d'Or park, zoo and greenhouses, former vet school and courthouse, and the Confluence district if requested. Take note that guests must be in good shape and confident cyclists. 

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Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
Located on a small hill overlooking the Ain River valley north of Lyon, the medieval walled town of Perouges is known for its wine and weaving. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, it’s filled with cobblestone streets and fascinating buildings. Starting from the upper gate, you’ll see the 15th-century fortified church, the former home of the princes of Savoy, the main street ‘Rue des Rondes’, a 33-metre-deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice, with its round tower.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

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Lyon by Night (extra expense)
Experience Lyon in a whole new light as the city comes alive after dusk. Stroll through illuminated streets, where centuries of history blend with modern vibrancy. From the glowing facades of Old Lyon to the shimmering reflections on the Saône, every corner tells a story. Marvel at the breathtaking view from Fourvière Hill, where the cityscape sparkles beneath the starry sky. Discover the charm of the World Heritage-listed Presqu'île, the city’s central district, filled with beautifully lit squares and fountains. Let the enchanting atmosphere of Lyon by night leave you spellbound.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

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.

This morning, after breakfast, you'll disembark your luxury Emerald Star-Ship in Lyon and then be transferred by coach to Switzerland and the charming lakeside city of Lausanne, ready for the next part of your exciting journey. In Lausanne, enjoy a four-night stay in a well-appointed hotel in a central location. 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.

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 tasting delicious 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, you'll bid a fond farewell to Lausanne, leaving your hotel and fellow guests for your transfer to the airport, taking with you treasured memories of this beautiful Swiss city, its historic Old Town and breathtaking Alpine scenery.

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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.