We have included a number of ways to travel to your cruise - these are all possible at no supplement. Fly from your choice of 15 UK airports to Lyon via Paris with Air France, or fly direct from London Heathrow with British Airways. On arrival in Lyon, transfer* to Chalon-sur-Saône to embark on your river cruise. Alternatively, travel on Eurostar from London’s St Pancras International to Paris Gare du Nord. Your onward journey will be from Paris Gare de Lyon to Chalon-sur-Saône, where you will transfer to your river cruise on-board the ms Amadeus Symphony. (Please note, if travelling by Eurostar, you will arrive on board after dinner.)
Next Nine Nights: Cruising
This morning enjoy a visit to Beaune in the heart of Burgundy for an included visit to Les Hospices de Beaune. Founded in 1443, it showcases some of France’s finest examples of 15th Century architecture. Burgundy is renowned for its red wine, and you will enjoy some of the region’s best examples during a tasting.
Once the largest Christian building in the world, see the great Benedictine Abbey of Cluny. SCENIC EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE - Travel through the ‘Golden Stone’ region of Beaujolais where you will meet a local wine vintner. Sample some of his finest wines perfectly accompanied by cheese and sausage appetisers.
This morning continue to cruise south to Lyon the gastronomic heart of France. See charming embankments, majestic bridges and illuminating monuments emerge around every bend on your walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Finish your walking tour with a visit to the local markets, where flowers, fresh produce and art abound. This afternoon enjoy a cooking demonstration inspired by the region’s specialities.
Visit the old Roman city of Vienne before setting sail down the Rhône to Tournon. A special SCENIC EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE awaits you this evening as you learn about everyday life during a visit to a typical French family home. Enjoy the experience as you are treated to a home-cooked meal by the family. Why not use this special opportunity to polish up on your French?
The walled city of Viviers is a delightful stop on this river cruise. A walking tour reveals ancient homes and the city’s unusual cathedral. Travel into the Ardèche Mountains and unveil the natural wonders of the largest natural canyon in Europe.
Today explore Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the largest and most important wine region in the southern Rhône. Dating back to the 11th century the papal tradition of planting vines continues today with over 300 hectares of vineyards. Home to the summer residence of the Avignon Popes, visit the castle ruins which offer a taste of history and a glorious view over the area.
Although the papacy was located in Avignon for less than a century, they kept very busy during these years as you will see by the impressive architecture of this medieval city. Choose from one of the following included SCENIC FREE CHOICE tours: (1) Visit the Palais des Papes for a guided tour; or (2) Take an excursion to Uzès, a well preserved and charming town.
SCENIC EXCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE - Today venture to La Camargue, the ‘wild west’ of France where cowboys tend to herds of bulls destined for bullfighting in Spain. Visit a real working farm and witness these hard working cowboys at hand. This evening why not take a stroll along the pretty embankments of Arles.
After breakfast this morning, disembark your ship and journey by coach to the lively coastal town of Nice, set on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea. Along the way visit the well-known city of Cannes. On arrival enjoy an orientation tour of Nice.
Three Night Stay: Nice
Visit Monte-Carlo located in the Principality of Monaco. As part of your guided tour visit the Prince’s Palace of Monaco, which includes entry to the Palace State Apartments where you will be amazed at the ornate furnishing of each distinctly decorated room.
Today is yours to explore this fascinating city at your own leisure.
Transfer* to Nice Airport for your flight to one of 15 UK airports via Paris with Air France, or fly direct to London Heathrow with British Airways. Alternatively, travel with Eurostar via Paris (change of station required in Paris) to London’s St Pancras International Station. (Please do not book departure flight or train before 2pm).
*Check transfer entitlements with your travel agent. For passengers who have already received documentation - refer to your booking summary.
Brochure: IS/ERC/GBP1213
Tour code: FRUN.1