Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Paris

Let a truly Parisian atmosphere clock you today as you are welcomed to the postcard-worthy French capital. You will be met at the airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your centrally-located hotel, nestled amidst open boulevards and some of the city’s iconic highlights.

Today, a knowledgeable local guide will introduce you to the best that Paris has to offer, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. Later, board a charming river cruise on the Seine and enjoy sailing to the Eiffel Tower.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Paris and a Seine river cruise

After breakfast, you will be transferred from Paris to Lyon by rail. When you arrive, you will 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.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to observe the area’s architectural heritage and peaceful surrounds as you travel to the quaint village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune. Originally a hospital for the poor, the Hospices de Beaune is now home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions. 

Included Excursion
Visit to the Hospices de Beaune

EmeraldPLUS
Cheese and olive tasting on board

Renowned for its wine heritage, prestigious vineyards and medieval past, Beaune is a stunning town in the heart of the Burgundy wine region that exudes quaint charm and a unique, traditional Burgundian-Flemish feel. With cobbled streets and historic architecture, Beaune offers a wealth of sights to explore and a vibrant culinary scene, all against a backdrop of timeless beauty.

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'll 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

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Lyon

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Private Culinary Charms of Lyon (extra expense)

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. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards

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 façades. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers

DiscoverMORE
Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)

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 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 are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon

EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon

DiscoverMORE
Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)

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Private hidden Gems tour of Avignon (extra expense)

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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon

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 Amphitheatre 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. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Visit to L’Occitane Factory (extra expense)

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

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 our terms and conditions for further information.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles' chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.  So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d'Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.  By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighbouring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice's most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice's port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the "Family Plus" label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.

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The flavours of the Douro are yours to discover in Reflections Restaurant, our main dining area on-board Emerald Radiance. Here you will enjoy breakfast, lunch and dinner with a menu of delicious, chef-prepared local dishes and favourites from home all complemented by a relaxed, open seating plan, so you can look forward to an exemplary dining experience on the river.

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A beautifully decked area at the front of our Yacht and Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a glass of local wine or beer with your loved ones or new-found companions as the wonders of Europe and Asia pass you by – what could be better.

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The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.

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To immerse you further in local history and culture, we also offer optional DiscoverMORE special excursions (at an additional cost). Look out for details on each itinerary. These can either be booked before you go or once on-board.

Head into France’s storied past, or the region’s glitzy cities with a DiscoverMORE excursion along the Rhône.

With DiscoverMORE, you’re free to revel in the awe-inspiring wonder of Pont du Gard, the highest of all Roman-built aqueducts. A striking example of Roman engineering, the Pont du Gard stretches powerfully across the Gardon River. Built in the 1st century, the structure remains solid to this day, a testament to the precision and skill of Roman engineers, despite the simplicity of the technology they used. 

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Showcasing the very best that Europe has to offer, our exceptional river cruises introduce the highlights of the continent – from the splendour of the Rhine Gorge to the elegant boulevards of Vienna. In between memorable sightseeing and cultural encounters, you can enjoy an exciting collection of EmeraldACTIVE excursions, special events that let you stretch your legs and keep active amid the inspiring backdrops of Europe’s iconic waterways.

Hike the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône

Beyond the limits of medieval Tournon lies the terraced vine slopes of the Côtes du Rhône, one of France’s most esteemed wine-making appellations. It’s here, within sight of the weaving passage of the river, that you can enjoy an EmeraldACTIVE vineyard hike – taking in the fragrant grape rows, inspiring scenery and warm, Mediterranean climate. Climb from the river’s edge to the summit of the valley through these celebrated wine lands promises, and enjoy a post-walk tasting session.

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The EmeraldPLUS experience takes you to the heart of local culture, helping you enjoy authentic customs and traditions while learning what day-to-day life is like for local people. These enriching events seek to avoid typical tourist hotspots, so you can be sure that your experience goes beyond that of the ordinary traveller. 

From the culinary capital of Europe, Lyon, to the balmy climes of the Mediterranean Coast, the Rhône explores a truly beautiful stretch of France.

Regional wine tasting in Tournon

The South of France has winemaking pedigree that is hard to match, anywhere in the world. As your Star-Ship journeys through Tournon, you’ll be given chance to sample some of the region’s best-loved and most celebrated wines. Hosted on-board the ship, with the stunning backdrop of southern France passing you by, you’re free to try these delightful vintages.

Enjoy this EmeraldPLUS experience as part of our Sensations of Lyon & Provence river cruise.

Provencal dinners hosted by renowned local chef

As well as a rich winemaking heritage, Provence is also home to some of the world’s favourite dishes and most respected chefs. During our river cruises through this amazing part of the world – a popular local chef will join you on-board and host an amazing dinner filled with delicacies and Provencal favourites.

Take part in this EmeraldPLUS experience during our Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice river cruise.

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With a different port call almost every day of your cruise; Emerald Cruises have organised a series of inspiring days ashore – taking you to the very heart of the beautiful towns and cities we visit. Exploring authentic local cultures, Emerald Cruises excursions are led by experienced, knowledgeable guides – introducing you to a wealth of knowledge.

Featuring as many as 16 destinations across up to five different countries, an Emerald Cruises cruise provides the perfect platform to absorb a huge array of cultures and traditions in one fell swoop. Every Emerald Cruises cruise itinerary is carefully planned to ensure the ship visits only the most fascinating, rewarding port towns and cities – affording you the opportunity to derive maximum reward and pleasure.

Whether exploring a new town on foot or navigating the streets of an ancient city by coach, English-speaking guides will be on hand to bring your destination to life through educational and enlightening commentary. And to ensure you don’t miss a second of the tour, we will provide all of our guests with a personal headset.

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If you want to purchase a drinks package, enquire about a DiscoverMORE excursion or simply catch-up with our friendly crew, you’ll always receive a warm welcome in our on-board reception area.

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At the heart of Emerald Liberté lies the Horizon Bar & Lounge, an elegant, airy space where you can enjoy the very best of our drink and hospitality offering. You’ll spend plenty of time here, so settle in to your comfortable and elegant surroundings.

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Pool and bar by day, cinema by night; this area of the Emerald Liberté is one we’re particularly proud of. The infinity-style pool at the rear of the ship transforms into a cinema in the evenings, so you can enjoy much-loved classics and new favourites.  

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Soak in your surroundings from the Sun Deck, a space for sun-seeking, sightseeing and blissful relaxation. Offering a front-row seat to the wonders of southern France; you won’t miss a thing from the comfort of your Sun Deck deckchair.

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Practice your putting or compete with new-found friends on Emerald Liberté’s purpose-built games area and golf putting green – perfect for those lazy afternoons on the river.

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Pool and bar by day, cinema by night; this area of the Emerald Liberté is one we’re particularly proud of. The infinity-style pool at the rear of the ship transforms into a cinema in the evenings, so you can enjoy much-loved classics and new favourites.  

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Enjoy a relaxing massage, facial or nail treatment in our custom-built wellness area. Our on-board beauty therapist provides a range of treatments to help you look and feel your best on the river, so feel free to drop by and find out how they can help you.

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Stretch your legs, see the sights and feel the breeze from Emerald Liberté’s specially-built walking track. Taking you around the perimeter of the Sun Deck, it’s the perfect way to stay active and take in a complete view of the river.

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Enjoy a massage, nail treatment or facial in our custom-built wellness area. Our on-board beauty therapist will be happy to help you choose a service to suit your needs, whenever you feel like it.

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In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

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An Emerald Stateroom is home to all the amenities you need to settle into your home-away-from-home. A great size picture window lets in the perfect amount of light, welcoming in the golden summer sunshine, or the winter sun during cooler months.

Comfort is of the highest importance, so each room features individual climate control, allowing you to personalise your room’s temperature to suit your preferences and the time of year you’re cruising.

We’ve designed our bathrooms as a relaxing retreat to retire to after an exciting day exploring. Enjoy a sumptuous shower complete with indulgent toiletries, as well as a hairdryer, all before settling into your queen or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luscious linens, as you enjoy a movie on your flat screen TV and infotainment system with, perhaps, a nightcap from your mini-bar.

If you wish to stay in contact with loved ones throughout your trip, you can do so using your in-suite telephone or our free Wi-Fi available throughout the ship.

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We make solo travel easy and comfortable as all of our Star-Ships, except Emerald Radiance, boast two Emerald Single Staterooms. Home to a deluxe single bed, a bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, you’ll have all the comforts you need at your fingertips. Your picture window welcomes in a lovely amount of light and individual climate control ensures you can keep at a comfortable temperature regardless of which season you’re travelling in.

A flat screen TV and infotainment system shows films and television programmes, so you can spend mornings and evenings relaxing in comfort before an exciting day ahead. Catch up with loved ones, using the suite’s telephone or the free Wi-Fi, and enjoy a drink from your minibar.  

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Your Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite offers everything you could possibly need throughout your cruise, and more. You’ll be surrounded by elegant décor and opulent, comfortable furnishings, as you unwind in your home-away-from-home. Relax on your balcony as the stunning landscapes pass by, and transform it from an indoor to an outdoor space with ease, as the floor-to-ceiling window lowers to a halfway point at the touch of a button. Enjoy the river breeze from your comfortable chair, enjoying a a good book or the unfolding vistas. Treat yourself to a drink from your suite’s minibar, or use it to keep your complimentary bottle of water chilled, or for any souvenirs that require it.

When it’s time to retire to bed, you can look forward to the exceptional comfort of your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luxurious linens. Treat yourself to an indulgent shower with luxury toiletries, to really prepare yourself for an excellent night’s sleep.

Of course, keeping in touch with your loved ones is really easy. Every suite has its own telephone, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi being available throughout the Star-Ship. 

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Some of the most sumptuous suites on European waterways, our Owners One-Bedroom Suite has it all. A separate lounge and bedroom area allows the luxury of space, from which to enjoy your complimentary continental breakfast in the morning, a drink from your fully stocked minibar or after-dinner sweet treats before bed.

Your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed will be draped in high quality linens, for the perfect night’s sleep, plus you’ll have the pleasure of selecting your preferred pillow from our extensive menu. Get comfortable for the night after a busy day exploring, and prepare for the next as you unwind with a film on your flat screen TV and infotainment system in true comfort.

A walk-in wardrobe makes unpacking even more of a dream. A great space to keep all your belongings and outfits for special occasions, such as your exclusive dinner at the Captain’s Table. You’ll even have the option to have four items laundered a day to ensure that favourite dress or suit is in the best possible condition for your event.

In the morning, enjoy the perfect wake-up call with a fresh coffee from your in-suite Nespresso™ machine. Sip it on the balcony, wrapped in the comfort of your Emerald Cruises bathrobe and slippers after a refreshing shower in your stylish in-suite bathroom, enhanced by luxurious toiletries.

You’ll have so much to tell your loved ones back home, so we’ve made keeping in contact really easy. Not only will you have an in-suite telephone, but complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Star-Ship and an iPad means you can choose your favourite method of communication, whenever the moment suits.

Four suites available on-board Emerald Sky, Emerald Star, Emerald Destiny, Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Two available on Emerald Liberté sailing through France and Emerald Radiance sailing in Portugal. 

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Staying in the Emerald Grand Balcony Suite makes waking up and going to sleep a dream. Open your balcony, with the simple press of a button, to let in the river breeze on a lazy morning, as the unrivalled comfort of your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, dressed with luxurious linens, encourages you to lie in that little bit longer.

Wake up to the luxurious surrounds of your stylish bathroom, enjoying a revitalising shower, complete with sumptuous toiletries. Then, what could be better than having a continental breakfast brought to your door to enjoy on your own private balcony? Complimentary bathrobes and slippers make lounging comfortable, and your own in-suite Nespresso™ machine means you can sip a fresh coffee as you ponder your itinerary and what the day has to offer.

Select your preferred pillow from our extensive menu and enjoy an exceptionally comfortable night’s sleep, or simply relax as you watch a film on your suite’s flat screen TV and infotainment system, during some down time. Individual climate control enables your room to stay at the right temperature to suit you, whether you’re sailing in the warmer summer months, or the cooler winter.

And, stay in touch with family and friends using your in-suite telephone or make the most of complimentary Wi-Fi for contacting them by your preferred method.

Eight suites available on-board Emerald Sky, Emerald Star, Emerald Destiny, Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Four available on Emerald Liberté sailing through France