Explore the scenic South of France on this 10-day river cruise aboard the Emerald Liberte, renowned as the birthplace of photography and home to exceptional 15th-century French architecture, Roman ruins, and historic vineyards set against dramatic mountain backdrops. Discover Lyon, widely recognized as the gastronomic capital of France, where culinary excellence meets cultural heritage. This itinerary includes an exclusive Provencal dinner on board, curated by acclaimed French chef Fabien Morreale, offering an authentic taste of the region. From timeless landmarks to rich culinary traditions, this journey delivers a comprehensive and immersive experience through one of France’s most celebrated regions.
Highlights
Discover Lyon’s rich Roman past and vibrant culinary traditions
Sample Beaujolais wines in the heart of Macon’s renowned vineyards
Experience medieval charm in Tournon with a riverside castle tour
Stroll Viviers’ cobbled streets and admire its historic cathedral
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Embrace the unmistakable charm of Paris as you arrive in the postcard-perfect French capital. An Emerald Cruises representative will meet you at the airport and escort you to your centrally located hotel, set among wide boulevards and within easy reach of the city's most iconic landmarks.
Today, a local expert will guide you through Paris’ top landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. Later, board a scenic Seine River cruise and sail past the city's highlights en route to the Eiffel Tower.
Included Excursion
A guided tour of Paris and a Seine river cruise
After breakfast, transfer from Paris to Lyon by rail. When you arrive, be welcomed on board your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship by your captain and crew. This evening, enjoy your first dinner on board with your fellow guests.
France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you can enjoy an array of exemplary culinary delights.
Today, a guided city tour awaits you, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore the highlights of the city on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon with cheese tasting
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Lyon
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Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
Today, enjoy a relaxed morning sailing on the Saone river until you reach the lovely town of Macon. Here, you can discover the Beaujolais wine region, renowned for its vibrant, fruity wines with Gamay grape variety. The extensive planting of the Gamay grape makes Beaujolais wine region one of the several regions on the planet to focus on a single grape variety. Red wine accounts for 99% of the total wine production of the region.
The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers.
Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the local vineyards and marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes used to make some of the finest wines in Europe.
Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will highlight many of the city’s numerous spectacular monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish facades.
EmeraldPLUS
Provencal soap-making workshop
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers
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Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)
The words Provence & lavender fields have become so synonymous with each other over the decades that you can hardly mention one without the other.
The dusky purple shades and delicate fragrances that decorate its fields every summer are now so emblematic of the region that the Provence lavender fields have very much become a tourist attraction in their own right.
Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution.
Your included walking tour this afternoon will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. This evening, you can enjoy a delightful Provencal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale and later you are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon as part of the EmeraldPLUS program.
EmeraldPLUS
Tour to Lavender Fields
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon
EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon
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Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale
The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the 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 Amphitheater and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, where a stop at a local and quintessential café is a must before returning to relax on board your Star-Ship.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
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Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)
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In the footsteps of Van Gogh: painting workshop (extra expense)
Day 10: Arles | Disembark | Nice
1 Breakfast
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 and delightful cuisine with you.
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 the terms and conditions for further information.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$9,9452-3 travelers
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Single Stateroom (ES)
Single Occupancy Only. 105 sqft (9.8 sqm). 2 single cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a deluxe single bed, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Stateroom (E)
Emerald Stateroom - Dimensions: 170 sq ft (15.8 sq m) 7 cabins located at Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Stateroom (D)
Emerald Stateroom - Dimensions: 170 sq ft (15.8 sq m) 6 cabins located at Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - Dimensions: 170 sq ft (15.8 sq m) 14 cabin located at Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with the open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV, infotainment system and mini-fridge
Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - Dimensions: 170 sq ft (15.8 sq m) 13 cabin located at Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with the open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV, infotainment system and mini-fridge
Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - Dimensions: 170 sq ft (15.8 sq m) 21 cabins located at Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with the open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV, infotainment system and mini-fridge
Grand Balcony Suite (S)
Grand Balcony Suite - Dimensions: 170 sq ft (15.8 sq m) 4 cabins located at Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, an in-suite mini-bar available at own expense, a complimentary Nespresso machine and bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes, and slippers
Owner’s One-Bedroom Suite (SA)
Owner's One-Bedroom Suite - Dimensions: 315 sq ft. (29.3 sq m) 2 cabins located at Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin beds, an outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, a separate bathroom and lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, an in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer, and soft drinks
Notes
Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
