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Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice

5.0/5 Based on 1 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice

5.0/5 Based on 1 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach River Cruise
River View
$5,877
Balcony
$7,045
Suite
$8,253
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
11 Days
 Cruise Starts
Lyon
 Cruise Finishes
Nice
11 Day Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: France, Monaco
 Cruise Length
11 Days
 Cruise Starts
Lyon
 Cruise Finishes
Nice
11 Day Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: France, Monaco
Ship
Departures
Passengers
134
Crew
53
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
EFRN-1
Ship
Departures
Passengers
134
Crew
53
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
EFRN-1

Overview

The Rhône and Saône rivers meander through the picturesque south of France, where you’ll discover picture-perfect villages, palaces and Roman ruins, and delicious Provençal cuisine. It is no surprise that the South of France is recognized as the birthplace of photography, its unrivalled beauty comprises the finest examples of French 15th century architecture, with Roman ruins and sun-soaked vineyards nestled at the foot of colossal mountain ranges. Journey to the country’s gastronomic beating heart, Lyon, before enjoying an authentic Provençal dinner on board, hosted by renowned French chef, Fabien...read more Morreale.
The Rhône and Saône rivers meander through the picturesque south of France, where you’ll discover picture-perfect villages, palaces and Roman ruins, and delicious Provençal cuisine. It is no surprise that the South of France is recognized as the birthplace of photography, its unrivalled beauty comprises the finest examples of French 15th century architecture, with Roman ruins and sun-soaked vineyards nestled at the foot of colossal mountain ranges. Journey to the country’s gastronomic beating heart, Lyon, before enjoying an authentic Provençal dinner on board, hosted by renowned French chef, Fabien...read more Morreale.

Itinerary

Welcome to Lyon, on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by a member of our friendly greetings team and transferred to the contemporary surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 04:30 PM. (D)

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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to the Hospices de Beaune
  • EmeraldPLUS Cheese and olive tasting on board

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. (B/L/D)

  • 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. (B/L/D)

  • 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. (B/L/D)

  • 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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Avignon
  • EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing excursion in Avignon
  • DiscoverMORE Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Private hidden Gems tour of Avignon (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE 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. (B/L/D)

  • 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 disembark the ship for your transfer to Nice, where you will be taken to your centrally located hotel. Included is a three-night stay in the sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur. (B)

Today, the stunning seaside surrounds of the French Riviera are yours to explore with your local guide, before spending the afternoon exploring at leisure.

You will be taken to Monte Carlo for an insightful tour. Famously portrayed in films that include Never Say Never Again and To Catch a Thief, Monte Carlo offers much in the way of its charming past.

Witness the impressive Prince’s Palace of Monaco, originally a Genoese fortress with a dramatic past and the home of beloved actress Grace Kelly. (B)

  • Included Excursion A city tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo

Nice has long held a reputation for its glamour, where sun-kissed beaches and lavish surrounds create a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other. Today, explore Nice at leisure. Your Emerald Waterways representative will be available to help you to plan your day in this vibrant city. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Saint Paul de Vence (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare to be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of Roman amphitheatres and the lush surrounds of the French Riviera with you.

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. (B)

Welcome to Lyon, on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. On arrival at the airport, you’ll be met by a member of our friendly greetings team and transferred to the contemporary surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 04:30 PM. (D)

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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to the Hospices de Beaune
  • EmeraldPLUS Cheese and olive tasting on board

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. (B/L/D)

  • 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. (B/L/D)

  • 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. (B/L/D)

  • 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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Avignon
  • EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing excursion in Avignon
  • DiscoverMORE Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Private hidden Gems tour of Avignon (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE 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. (B/L/D)

  • 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 disembark the ship for your transfer to Nice, where you will be taken to your centrally located hotel. Included is a three-night stay in the sun-kissed capital of the Côte d’Azur. (B)

Today, the stunning seaside surrounds of the French Riviera are yours to explore with your local guide, before spending the afternoon exploring at leisure.

You will be taken to Monte Carlo for an insightful tour. Famously portrayed in films that include Never Say Never Again and To Catch a Thief, Monte Carlo offers much in the way of its charming past.

Witness the impressive Prince’s Palace of Monaco, originally a Genoese fortress with a dramatic past and the home of beloved actress Grace Kelly. (B)

  • Included Excursion A city tour of Monaco and Monte Carlo

Nice has long held a reputation for its glamour, where sun-kissed beaches and lavish surrounds create a unique atmosphere that is unlike any other. Today, explore Nice at leisure. Your Emerald Waterways representative will be available to help you to plan your day in this vibrant city. (B)

  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Saint Paul de Vence (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and prepare to be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of Roman amphitheatres and the lush surrounds of the French Riviera with you.

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. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Liberte

Emerald Liberte
Emerald Liberte

Cruise through the south of France onboard the Emerald Liberte to uncover both historic charm and contemporary life. Read more

You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS
You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

EmeraldACTIVE
EmeraldACTIVE

Ignite your sense of adventure and explore a little further on foot or by bike. Read more

Swimming Pool and Cinema
Swimming Pool and Cinema

The relaxing pool deck offers views from the stern and transforms to a cinema at night. Read more

Reflections Restaurant
Reflections Restaurant

From breakfast to dinner you will enjoy exemplary service and sumptuous cuisine in the Reflections Restaurant. Read more

Sun Deck Life
Sun Deck Life

Enjoy limitless views from the sun deck atop your Emerald Star-ship while you relax or play. Read more

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5.0
AVG. RATING 5.0 / 5
1 Review
5 Star
100%
4 Star
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1 Star
Très bon! Cruising through the south of France was one highlight of our trip! 1 , TAS, Australia, May 2024
This was our second river cruise with Emerald and we had high hopes! In spite of the email a couple of days before we were to leave Paris, that said the cruise might not be able to go ahead because of high water, we barely noticed a glitch in the itinerary. We enjoyed the pre-cruise tour of Paris and then were taken to the ship at a different location ...read more and were bussed to the scenic spots. Once again, we could not fault the service of the wonderful staff on the Emerald. The attention to detail by the housekeeping staff, the kitchen and dining room staff and the activity staff was commendable. Of course, French foods and wine were fabulous and we also enjoyed being given 30 euro to spend on lunch in Lyon. Canoeing at Avignon, the Pont du Gard and the hospital at Beaune were also highlights! C'est la vie!

Brochure

Europe River Cruises

Emerald Europe River Cruises (2025)

Award-winning Emerald Cruises delivers exceptional small ship river cruising through the heart of Europe, on board our fleet of luxury Star-Ships. From the North Sea to the Black Sea, revel in a European river journey like no other. Our unique collection of itineraries — showcasing seven mesmerising rivers — offers you an immersive insight into the...more incredible history, culture and traditions of the diverse regions we visit.

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$7,144
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Saturday 01 Aug 2026
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Saturday 29 Aug 2026
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$7,540
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Saturday 10 Oct 2026
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Saturday 24 Oct 2026
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Saturday 11 Apr 2026
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$13,061
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$18,628
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Saturday 20 Jun 2026
Tuesday 30 Jun 2026
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$13,061
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Saturday 18 Jul 2026
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$8,436
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$12,089
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Saturday 01 Aug 2026
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Saturday 29 Aug 2026
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$8,832
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$12,485
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Saturday 10 Oct 2026
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$11,891
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Saturday 24 Oct 2026
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$11,693
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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Emerald Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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