Tauck
French Escapade: Paris to the Riviera - Southbound
French Escapade: Paris to the Riviera – Southbound
If you’re dreaming of a France river cruise, come along with us on a French Escapade aboard ms Emerald along the rivers Rhône and Saône… and visit the “City of Light” Paris, cultural Provence and the jet-setting city of Cannes on the Riviera along the way.
Travel into the countryside past vineyards where some of the world’s best grapes become some of the world’s best wines, stopping to taste some of them. Discover river towns with Roman roots and lingering traces of medieval magic in their streets, experience the cowboy traditions and cuisine of La Camargue, and sample the pleasures of regional cuisine and wine throughout your trip. Explore a palace fit for a pope and an abbey that was once one of the most powerful in Europe. You’ll find something new, something wonderful every day. And during two nights in Paris, you’ll dine at chic Fouquet’s on the Champs-Élysées!
| Day 1 |
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, arts and finance, Paris is also a major transportation hub, and will host the 2024 Olympics.
Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais. (The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is currently closed indefinitely for renovation due to a 2019 fire.) Marquee annual events in this world-renowned city include Bastille Day (July 14 each year, including flyovers, a military parade and fireworks) and Paris-Plages (mid-July to mid-August), where a temporary beach — complete with sand, chairs and palm trees — is created on the Right bank of the Seine River. Cobblestone walkways, beautiful bridges, breathtaking architecture, radiant streetlamps... Paris has ambiance to spare. Whether sitting at a cafe or actively exploring timeless landmarks and art, millions of visitors have discovered that Paris contains multitudes. |
| Day 2 |
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, arts and finance, Paris is also a major transportation hub, and will host the 2024 Olympics.
Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais. (The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is currently closed indefinitely for renovation due to a 2019 fire.) Marquee annual events in this world-renowned city include Bastille Day (July 14 each year, including flyovers, a military parade and fireworks) and Paris-Plages (mid-July to mid-August), where a temporary beach — complete with sand, chairs and palm trees — is created on the Right bank of the Seine River. Cobblestone walkways, beautiful bridges, breathtaking architecture, radiant streetlamps... Paris has ambiance to spare. Whether sitting at a cafe or actively exploring timeless landmarks and art, millions of visitors have discovered that Paris contains multitudes. |
| Day 3 |
France's capital and most populated city, Paris is an alluring destination and an essential stop for any global traveler. A center of fashion, gastronomy, arts and finance, Paris is also a major transportation hub, and will host the 2024 Olympics.
Major tourist attractions in the City of Lights include the Eiffel Tower (such great heights!), the Louvre (home of the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo), the Arc de Triomphe, and Grand Palais. (The famous Notre Dame Cathedral is currently closed indefinitely for renovation due to a 2019 fire.) Marquee annual events in this world-renowned city include Bastille Day (July 14 each year, including flyovers, a military parade and fireworks) and Paris-Plages (mid-July to mid-August), where a temporary beach — complete with sand, chairs and palm trees — is created on the Right bank of the Seine River. Cobblestone walkways, beautiful bridges, breathtaking architecture, radiant streetlamps... Paris has ambiance to spare. Whether sitting at a cafe or actively exploring timeless landmarks and art, millions of visitors have discovered that Paris contains multitudes. |
| Day 4 |
Chalon-sur-Saône, nestled in the heart of Burgundy along the Saône River, offers a captivating mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The town’s roots stretch back to Roman times, evident in the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town. Here, visitors can admire architectural gems like the St. Vincent Cathedral, a striking example of Gothic design with its soaring spires and intricate stained glass windows. The town is also home to the Musée Nicéphore Niépce, dedicated to the pioneering inventor of photography, born in Chalon-sur-Saône in 1765. This museum provides an engaging look at the evolution of photography, with an impressive collection of cameras, photographs, and historical artifacts showcasing the art form’s development over the centuries. Beyond its rich history, Chalon-sur-Saône is a gateway to the picturesque landscapes of Burgundy. The surrounding countryside features rolling hills, lush vineyards, and scenic riverbanks, offering plenty of opportunities for outdoor exploration. Visitors can enjoy relaxing boat rides along the Saône or cycle through the vineyards of the Côte Chalonnaise, renowned for its exceptional wines. |
| Day 5 |
The famous wine region of Southern France. |
| Day 6 |
|
| Day 7 |
The metropolitan center of southeastern France, vibrant Lyon abounds with stunning architectural masterpieces, gastronomic delights, and immersive museums. This spectacular city, founded by the Romans centuries ago, rivals Paris as a cultural and social hub for exploring the best that France has to offer. Discover beautifully constructed cathedrals and remnants of the Renaissance in the neighborhood of Vieux Lyon, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site and located on the banks of the Saône River. From the Cathédrale Saint-Jean-Baptiste’s vaulted ceilings and exquisite stained-glass windows to the mysterious Traboules, concealed passageways beneath the city, Vieux Lyon is the perfect place to trace Lyon’s rich history. Just north of Vieux Lyon, the remains of the Theatres Romains de Fourvière, built thousands of years ago during Roman occupation, still stand; the amphitheater’s immense stone steps seemingly transport you to another bygone era. Steps away, la Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, the nineteenth-century basilica overlooking Lyon’s city center, represents a more recent period in Lyonnaise history, adorned in a decadent and colorful Byzantine style. You'll find dozens of fascinating and unique museums throughout Lyon, including the Musée des Beaux Arts, the Musée Miniature et Cinema, Musée des Automates, La Sucrière, and many more! When you finish wandering through these carefully curated exhibits, stop to savor Lyon’s highly lauded culinary scene, where numerous Michelin starred restaurants serve some of the best food in all of France. Taste everything from coq au vin, quenelles, andouillette, and salade lyonnaise, and relish in the city’s flavorful gourmet paradise. Lyon, France beckons you! |
| Day 8 |
Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, Vienne, France, is located south of Lyon and was once an important hub during the Roman Empire. This historic city is replete with remnants of its Roman past, including the Temple of Augustus and Livia, the Théâtre Antique de Vienne, and the Archeological Gardens of Cybele. |
| Day 9 |
Located on the Rhône River, Avignon is the city to which the Popes fled when leaving the corruption of Rome in the 14th century. The palace they built, 'Le Palais des Papes,' is a breathtaking must see. After touring this majestic Gothic structure, be sure to hike the Parc de Rochers des Doms for a panoramic view of Avignon, the Rhône River Valley, and the St. Bénezet Bridge. |
| Day 10 |
Located on the Rhône River, Avignon is the city to which the Popes fled when leaving the corruption of Rome in the 14th century. The palace they built, 'Le Palais des Papes,' is a breathtaking must see. After touring this majestic Gothic structure, be sure to hike the Parc de Rochers des Doms for a panoramic view of Avignon, the Rhône River Valley, and the St. Bénezet Bridge. |
| Day 11 |
Nestled between two nature parks and the Rhône River, picturesque Arles will absolutely delight any traveler to the south of France. Situated near Marseille in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, Arles boasts small town charm and its architectural treasures have been heavily influenced by the city’s role as an ancient Roman capital. Once the stomping grounds of Vincent van Gogh, Arles’s innate natural beauty has become an inspiration and haven for artists and lovers of art alike. From the Théâtre antique d’Arles, the city’s historic Roman amphitheater, to the ruins of Thermes de Constantin, to the Alyscamps cemetery, hints of the ancient Roman Empire remain throughout Arles and are essential landmarks deserving of exploration. Other notable sites include the Abbaye de Montmajour and the Cloître Saint-Trophime, both of which date back to medieval times, as well as Arles’s attractions dedicated to the life and work of Van Gogh, such as l’Espace Van Gogh and the Fondation Vincent van Gogh. Head to the Marché d’Arles for the best of Provençale cuisine and fresh produce. Discover Arles and immerse yourself in the city's historic splendor! |
| Day 12 |
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence is a city that enchants with its blend of historical charm and vibrant modernity. Founded by the Romans in 123 BC, Aix-en-Provence, often simply called Aix, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard that exemplifies the city's elegance with its grand fountains and historic buildings, including the beautiful Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) and the imposing Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, known for its remarkable Romanesque and Gothic features. Aix-en-Provence is also celebrated for its lively arts scene and as the birthplace of renowned painter Paul Cézanne. Art enthusiasts can explore the Paul Cézanne National Museum, which showcases a rich collection of his works and offers insights into his creative process. The city is dotted with various art galleries and studios, reflecting its deep-rooted artistic spirit. The Granet Museum is another highlight, housing an impressive collection of works from the Renaissance to contemporary art. The charm of Aix-en-Provence extends to its bustling markets and gastronomic delights. The city's markets, such as the Place Richelme Market, offer an array of local produce, cheeses, and pastries, making it a delightful experience for food lovers. Don’t miss out on trying traditional Provençal specialties like ratatouille and bouillabaisse at one of the local bistros. Fun Fact: Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its natural hot springs, which have been used for their therapeutic properties since Roman times. You can visit Les Thermes Sextius, a modern spa complex that continues this ancient tradition, offering a luxurious experience amidst the historical backdrop of the city |
| Day 13 |
Situated beautifully on the French Riviera, Cannes is a commune amid the Alpes-Maritimes department. It famously plays host to the annual Cannes Film Festival, among other lavish events. A distinct luxurious atmosphere defines this city, and the rich and famous cycle through here regularly. |
| Day 14 |
Nestled in the heart of Provence, Aix-en-Provence is a city that enchants with its blend of historical charm and vibrant modernity. Founded by the Romans in 123 BC, Aix-en-Provence, often simply called Aix, is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the Cours Mirabeau, a tree-lined boulevard that exemplifies the city's elegance with its grand fountains and historic buildings, including the beautiful Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall) and the imposing Saint-Sauveur Cathedral, known for its remarkable Romanesque and Gothic features. Aix-en-Provence is also celebrated for its lively arts scene and as the birthplace of renowned painter Paul Cézanne. Art enthusiasts can explore the Paul Cézanne National Museum, which showcases a rich collection of his works and offers insights into his creative process. The city is dotted with various art galleries and studios, reflecting its deep-rooted artistic spirit. The Granet Museum is another highlight, housing an impressive collection of works from the Renaissance to contemporary art. The charm of Aix-en-Provence extends to its bustling markets and gastronomic delights. The city's markets, such as the Place Richelme Market, offer an array of local produce, cheeses, and pastries, making it a delightful experience for food lovers. Don’t miss out on trying traditional Provençal specialties like ratatouille and bouillabaisse at one of the local bistros. Fun Fact: Aix-en-Provence is renowned for its natural hot springs, which have been used for their therapeutic properties since Roman times. You can visit Les Thermes Sextius, a modern spa complex that continues this ancient tradition, offering a luxurious experience amidst the historical backdrop of the city |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/04/25 - 06/17/25 |
Starting At $9,790 |
Get A Quote | |
|
07/21/25 - 08/03/25 |
Starting At $8,590 |
Get A Quote | |
|
09/23/25 - 10/06/25 |
Starting At $9,790 |
Get A Quote | |
|
10/25/25 - 11/07/25 |
Starting At $9,190 |
Get A Quote |
Offer subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.
