Day 1: Depart home gateway city to Lyon
Day 2: Transfer to Chalon-sur-Saone
Arrive at Lyon Airport where you�ll be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to your ship docked in Ch�lon. (D)
Day 3: Chalon-sur-Saone (Beaune)
Centered in the heart of Burgundy, Ch�lon is an important center for France�s wine trade. From here, we will journey to nearby Beaune to visit the famous Hospices de Beaune. Marvel at the multicolored roofs of this architectural jewel that has become one of the symbols of Burgundy. Founded in the 15th century, the Hospices were given some vineyards so they could make wine to auction off to support charities, and today the tradition still continues. (BB, L, Captain�s Welcome Dinner)
Featured Excursion: Beaune and Hospices de Beaune, open-air food market visit
Day 4: Lyon
The city was founded by Julius Caesar about 2,000 years ago, and as a result, it has a wealth of Roman remains, as well as many impressive museums, renaissance architecture galore, and � of course � world-renowned cuisine. We�ll start our tour with a drive to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvi�re, Lyon�s hallmark church, for a dramatic view of the town built at the confluence of the Rh�ne and the Sa�ne Rivers. From the bus, we�ll view Terreaux Square, the Fine Art Museum, and the Opera House. During the afternoon, you�ll have free time to explore. Rent one of the public bicycles to ride in the many parks and squares along the Rh�ne, walk through the renaissance quarter with its maze of medieval passageways, or simply relax with a glass of Beaujolais at one of the many taverns. (BB, L, D)
Featured Excursion: Lyon city tour
Day 5: Tournon, Tain L�Hermitage, Viviers
Nestled among the famous vineyards, the twin cities of Tournon/Tain L�Hermitage provide the perfect setting for those who are true connoisseurs of chocolate and wine. Celebrate the region by indulging in some C�te du Rhone wines. Cross the Marc Seguin suspended bridge and visit Tournon and its historic castle. Discover the secrets of world-famous Valrhona chocolate during an informative onboard lecture and tasting arranged by the Valrhona School of Chocolate. (BB, L, D)
Featured Excursion: Tasting andamp; Tournon walking tour
Day 6: Viviers, Avignon
Charming Viviers has retained much of its old charm and was developed around its Romanesque cathedral. Our tour in Viviers starts in Old Town with an introduction to the city. We�ll stop by Rue Ch�vrerie, Porte Riquot, Maison des Chevaliers, Rue du Chateau, and Maison �l�mentaire du Commer�ant. Finally, we�ll walk through the medieval streets of this charming town on our way back to the ship. (BB, L, D)
Featured Excursion: Viviers walking tour
Day 7: Avignon
Nestled in the lush hills of the Rh�ne Valley, lies the medieval walled city of Avignon. Named the �City of the Popes,� it was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when the Palace of the Popes was the equivalent of today�s Vatican. Your walking tour of Avignon starts at Clocktower Square, with its many cafes, shops and namesake clock tower dating back to the 1300s, and now part of the H�tel de Ville (City Hall). Next, it�s on to Pope�s Palace Square for an inside visit of the grand Palace of the Popes. (BB, L, D)
Featured Excursion: Avignon walking tour and Palace of the Popes
Day 8: Arles
The name of Arles is closely connected with that of Vincent Van Gogh. Inspired by the unique Proven�al light, he spent a period of intense and impassioned work under the bright sunny sky of Provence. During your walking tour discover Van Gogh�s Arles as well as the fascinating wealth of Romanesque monuments, such as the Roman Amphitheater and Constantine�s Roman baths. (BB, L, Captain�s Farewell Dinner)
Featured Excursion: Arles walking tour
Day 9: Depart Arles for transfer to airport in Marseille
Disembark the ship in Arles and transfer to Marseilles Airport for your flight home.
|
|
