Romantic Rhône with Paris

Be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel in the historic centre of Paris. Later this evening you’ll have the chance to get to know your fellow travellers and Tour Director at a Welcome Reception. 

Paris is the perfect city to begin your journey through France. This morning, open the door to some of the city’s best-loved sights on a guided tour, including the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy the afternoon to further explore Paris at your leisure.

Today, you’re bound to fall head over heels for the ‘City of Love’ during a full day of exploration. Will you enjoy a whirlwind romance with the bohemian fervour of the Latin Quarter? Or cement an enduring devotion to the art at the Louvre Museum? Alternatively, you may wish to join some exciting optional experiences. 

Enhance Your Journey – Culinary Walking Tour 

Set out on a walking tour of the charming Marais district, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods. Along the way, sample some culinary gems. 

Enhance Your Journey – Moulin Rouge 

Visit the iconic Moulin Rouge for dinner and a Parisian cabaret show. See a range of breathtaking acts and dances including the legendary French Cancan. 

Travel to Giverny, the former home of the French Impressionist painter, Claude Monet. Here, visit Monet's House and Garden. As you wander the gardens, take in lovely scenes that inspired many of Monet's famous paintings. See the water garden with its Japanese bridge, water lilies, wisteria and azaleas.

Farewell Paris after breakfast and board your coach for a scenic drive to Lyon to embark your ship MS Van Gogh. Explore the impressive social spaces and settle into your suite this evening. Later, enjoy meeting your fellow travellers and dedicated crew at a welcome cocktail reception.

This morning, embark on a guided tour of Lyon, a city known for its delectable array of cuisine. Traverse the city and ascend Fourvière Hill to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, known to locals as the upside-down elephant. Next, visit Vieux Lyon to admire the alluring buildings of the Old Town. Indulge in a tasting at Paul Bocuse’s Les Halles de Lyon and savour the best regional fare including local sausage, cheese and a glass of wine. Return to the ship and set sail along the Saône River to Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or for a special Insider Experience later on this evening.

Insider Experience – French Gastronomic Experience at Paul Bocuse’s Abbaye de Collonges

Delight in an authentic French meal at Paul Bocuse’s Abbaye de Collonges. Discover the innovative and unique approach to cuisine that Paul Bocuse was renowned for, earning himself three Michelin stars. Taste exceptional dishes reflecting the gourmet chef’s love for fresh, high-quality ingredients, all meticulously prepared by world-class chefs. Accompanied by a spectacular setting, this experience is sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

Today, set out on a guided tour of Avignon, once an integral location of the Catholic Church. Visit the medieval Palace of the Popes, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Avignon’s historic city centre. Learn about the history of the palace as a fortress, church and residence to popes and soak in the breathtaking architecture. Reboard your ship and head towards Arles.

Arrive in the port of Tain L’Hermitage this morning. Perhaps embark on an optional tour of the Cité du Chocolat. Cruise to the attractive city of Avignon, rich in Provençal character and history. Relish an evening of lively onboard entertainment.  

Enhance Your Journey – Cité du Chocolat 

Delve into the world of chocolate on a tour of the Cité du Chocolat. Learn about this popular treat with interactive exhibits and taste samples at the Valrhona Discovery Centre. 

Spend time at leisure today in the beautiful city of Arles, a World Heritage-listed site renowned for its rich collection of ancient Roman relics and remarkable cultural heritage. Perhaps embark on a full-day excursion to the Camargue.

Enhance Your Journey – The Camargue

Explore the stunning coastal region of the Camargue, home to diverse flora and fauna. The marshes, ponds, and seashores provide a rich habitat for various species. Visit a traditional manade, a farm where herders train horses and raise cattle, and discover the unique rhythms of life in this wild landscape.

This morning, head out on a guided tour of Viviers, accompanied by an expert. Immerse yourself in the history of this charming city and visit the House of Knights to admire the intricate details of its Renaissance-style façade, despite its title as the smallest cathedral in France. Next, stop at Saint Michel Tower and the Great Seminary before taking in the sensational vista of Viviers from the overlook. After, relax on board as you cruise towards La Voulte-sur-Rhône. Alternatively, join an optional coach tour to the stunning Gorges de l’Ardèche. Enjoy a Gala Dinner on board your ship tonight.

Enhance Your Journey – Gorges de l’Ardèche

Embark on a panoramic coach tour to the Gorges de l’Ardèche, a 30 km canyon carved over millennia by the Ardèche River. Marvel at the powerful forces of nature that have shaped deep valleys, cliffs, and captivating limestone formations. Stop to view the Pont d’Arc, a natural stone arch rising 100 feet above the river, offering extraordinary views of this awe-inspiring landscape.

After breakfast, it is time to depart your Rhône River cruise. Be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.