Swiss Mountains, Sensations of Lyon and Provence with Nice

Begin your enthralling journey in Lausanne, Switzerland, a charming destination set beside Lake Geneva and surrounded by majestic mountains. Here, French-Swiss elegance and rich history perfectly complement the breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arriving in Lausanne, expect a warm greeting at the airport before enjoying a seamless transfer directly to your centrally located hotel to commence a fully included four-night stay. This evening, gather with fellow guests and the dedicated tour director to share a convivial welcome drink and celebrate the start of an unforgettable European adventure.

Immerse yourself in the stunning natural beauty and fascinating historic sights of Lausanne during today’s included tours. Afterward, choose to participate in an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion or continue discovering the vibrant city at a completely relaxed pace. To ensure a perfect day, the dedicated tour director remains fully available to help tailor any independent explorations throughout this captivating Swiss destination.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lausanne
Today, explore the historic old center of Lausanne with your tour director. During a guided walking tour, 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 can 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 center 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.

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, 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, be warmly welcomed on board by the friendly captain and crew. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow guests on board.

France’s third-largest city, Lyon, is a former Roman capital and steeped in history. 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, 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 Theater. 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 boasts an impressive collection of more than 15,000 plant species. 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. 

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. Relax as you cruise along the Saône 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. 

Included Excursion
Beaujolais wine tasting
Experience the flavors 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.

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 on a 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.

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 center, pastel-colored 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.

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 center as you venture down its cobbled alleyways. Witness the splendor 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 can get to take in the picturesque landscapes from a completely new perspective. You can even get to paddle beneath the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval landmark. 

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale
This evening, enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Dine on authentic dishes that celebrate the flavors 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 with 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.  

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 favorite retreat for legendary artists like Van Gogh and Gauguin, drawn to its unique light and arresting beauty.  

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 Amphitheater, 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. 

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Emerald 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.