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Famous view of Lyon, France

Spectacular South of France

Example 11 Day Cruise aboard Scenic Sapphire
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Embark on this 11-day cruise through Lyon. Visit the estate of Château Meursault and taste some of its acclaimed wines, join a guided walk of Tain l’Hermitage or enjoy a hike to Heritage Hill. Take a tour of the city of Avignon to explore the Popes’ Palace and the famed St. Benezet Bridge. You can even enjoy an exclusive classical concert at the prestigious Palais des Papes. This itinerary is a luxurious way to explore the highlights of the South of France.
Cruise the Rhone river in charming LyonOverview of Tournon, FranceStop in Avignon on your cruise of the Rhône river.The Palais des Papes dominates the Avignon skylineFamous view of Lyon, France
Highlights
  • Participate in a visit to Saint-Rémy and Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery
  • Enjoy an exclusive classical concert at the prestigious Palais des Papes
  • Explore Château de Cormatin and its 17th-century architecture
  • Enjoy several days to explore the city of Lyon
Places Visited
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Lyon | Embark

Welcome to Lyon. Upon arrival, transfer to the Scenic Sapphire where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board. Spend the afternoon exploring the many features and amenities of your Scenic Space-Ship. Perhaps relax in the on board Salt Therapy Lounge and soak in the healing properties of the salt or simply take a beverage on to the Sun Deck and admire the magnificent views across the city of Lyon.

Day 2: Lyon | Tournus

Relax on board as you cruise the Saône River towards Tournus. Perhaps sharpen your skills on French cookery at a lesson in Scenic Culinaire.

Freechoice: Explore Château de Cormatin, boasting beautiful gardens and 17th century architecture. Or, join the highly trained hounds and their owners in a nearby quaint village to locate and sample French truffles – a gastronomic delicacy. Alternatively visit the three star Michelin Chef, Georges Blanc’s Restaurant for a cooking demonstration.

Day 3: Chalon-sur-Saône

Freechoice: Explore Beaune, including a visit to Les Hospices de Beaune. The former hospital is a prime example of traditional 15th century Burgundian architecture and now houses a fascinating museum. Alternatively, visit the estate of Château Meursault and taste some of the acclaimed wines from this premium estate located in the heart of the Burgundy region or, visit the photography museum and learn the history of photography in the town where it was first invented.

Day 4: Tain l’Hermitage

Perhaps start your day with a stretching class on the Sun Deck, or simply enjoy a leisurely morning as you take in the picturesque riverside panoramas.
Freechoice
Enjoy wine tasting at a local vineyard, or join a guided walking tour of the village of Tain l’Hermitage, including a tasting at Valrhona Chocolates. Alternatively, join a guided cycling tour along the Rhône to neighbouring villages.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Avignon

A Scenic Culinaire cooking class is on offer this morning

Freechoice: Take a walking tour of the magnificent city of Avignon including entrance to the Popes’ Palace and the famed St. Benezet Bridge, also known as the Pont d’Avignon. Alternatively, sample the celebrated wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape at a Côtes du Rhône vineyard.

Enrich: Enjoy a truly unforgettable experience at the prestigious Palais des Papes. After the doors close to the general public, be treated to an exclusive classical concert in one of the grandiose rooms.

Day 6: Avignon

Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire with your fresh ingredients. Alternatively, drop into the villages of the Luberon region, including Gordes and Sénanque Abbey, or take an excursion to Uzès and Pont du Gard. The Pont du Gard is an engineering masterpiece dating back to the middle of the first century, designed to carry water to the city of Nimes.

Day 7: Tarascon

Freechoice: Explore the artistic heritage of Arles, and visit the striking Arles Arena, or stop in at the pretty hilltop village of Les Baux before touring a charming family-run olive farm. Alternatively, follow in the footsteps  of Vincent Van Gogh during an excursion to Saint-Rémy and Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery, or take an active walk through La Camargue National Park.

This afternoon stay on board for a Provençal Soap Making workshop or enjoy time at leisure to explore the medieval charm of Tarascon. It is the perfect city to cycle around so why not jump on an e-bike and cycle the riverside paths along the Rhône.

Day 8: Viviers

Enjoy a walking tour of Viviers including an organ recital in the town’s cathedral.

Freechoice: Explore the Ardèche National Park and immerse yourself in the Caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, a replica museum depicting the collection of engravings, paintings and drawings found in the nearby Chauvet Cave, or visit the aromatic Lavender Museum and learn how lavender is harvested in this region and how it is used. Alternatively, if you are feeling adventurous, you can kayak through one of Europe’s largest natural canyons, or drop into the beautiful provincial town of Grignan.

Day 9: Lyon

Take in the vistas of the Rhône River as you sail towards the gastronomic heart of France, Lyon. Why not visit Scenic Culinaire and pick up a trick or two to add to your culinary prowess.

Enrich: Admire the beauty of one of the city’s greatest baroque buildings, Trinity Chapel. Built in the 17th century, the interior is decadently covered in Carrera marble.  As an exclusive experience with Scenic, join your fellow guests for a breathtaking acapella choir performance in this wonderful setting.

Day 10: Lyon

Freechoice: Discover Lyon’s historic significance by traversing its hidden secret passageways dating back to the 4th century, and visit Notre Dame Basilica for magnificent views across the city. Or, if you’re feeling more active, you can also explore Lyon on foot and explore the city sights along the waterways. Alternatively, walk the cobblestone paths in the medieval hilltop town of Pérouges.

This afternoon you have time at leisure to further explore this magnificent city. Use your Scenic Tailormade app on your personal device to explore the largest single renaissance quarter in France, Le Vieux Lyon or savour your last opportunity to sample some more of Lyons gastronomic delights.

Day 11: Lyon | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Depart after a wonderful farewell breakfast. Lyon is the end of your cruise, but it will be the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Sapphire

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
$13,690 2-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
Standard Suite E
160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Standard Suite D
160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Single Balcony Suite BS
160ft2. Single Balcony Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.
Balcony Suite C
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite BA
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite BB
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite B
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Junior Balcony Suite BJ
250ft2. These spacious Suites are located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.
Balcony Suite A
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, these suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite PA
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, these suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite PP
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, these suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Balcony Suite P
205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, these suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.
Junior Balcony Suite RJ
250ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.
Royal Balcony Suite RA
315ft2. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.
Royal Panorama Suite RS
At 325ft², and at the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.
Royal Owner's Suite RO
510ft2. including outdoor balcony. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.
Included
  • 10 Breakfasts, 9 Lunches, 10 Dinners
  • 10 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Wifi
  • Porterage
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Complimentary beverages
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
  • Passport or Visa fees
  • All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
Jack Charney

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