An exclusive wine & food river journey with
The Rhône River
Cruise the south of France exploring Burgundy, Rhône and Provence
Your date here
10 +
Group Size
8 / 7
Days / Nights
20
Meals
Experience the picturesque landscapes and gastronomic delights of the South of France during this 8-day adventure on the Rhône River. Highlights include the cities of Lyon, Beaune, and Avignon—just to name a few— where Michelin-starred restaurants, Roman ruins, and the finest examples of French architecture are surrounded by sun-soaked vineyards and rolling countryside.
Visit
charming hilltop villages and the ancient French cities of Avignon and Arles
Explore
the Rhône river valley with expert guides, enjoying behind-the-scenes access
Taste
quintessential French delicacies and sip local wines from these famed regions
Day 1
Lyon
On the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the historic city of Lyon can be found set across twin hills. Land in the Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport where an Experi representative will greet you and transfer you to our deluxe river ship. Settle into your new surroundings and gather tonight for a Welcome Dinner.
Day 2
Chalon-sur-Saône and Beaune
Heading south, we'll visit the famed Burgundy region, stopping first in the city of Chalon-sur-Saône, known for its art and history.
We'll also travel to the ancient village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune, founded in 1443 as a hospital for the poor and now a museum and architectural marvel that serves as home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions.
Day 3
Lyon
France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic capital of the country and the home of traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.
Today, enjoy a guided tour of Lyon, including 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, embark on a guided bike tour of Lyon.
Day 4
Tournon
The picturesque village of Tournon located on the banks of the Rhône is best known for its ancient castle that overlooks the village and its historic fortifications, including a set of medieval watchtowers. Stroll the cobblestone streets during a guided tour of the village that showcases its cultural heritage.
Alternatively, activities may include an optional hike through some of the local vineyards or a guided bike tour to the former fishermen's village of La Roche-de-Glun that provides a glimpse of rural life in the French countryside.
Day 5
Viviers
Continuing down the Rhône, our next stop will be the medieval walled town of Viviers, situated in southern Ardèche on the right bank of the Rhône River. Once a Roman settlement and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals, Viviers is an architectural open-air museum. Step back in time and wander the narrow lanes and tree-lined streets during a guided walking tour that showcases the history as well as the Romanesque and Renaissance influences on the façades of this pedestrian-friendly town.
Day 6
Avignon
Today we visit the ancient city of Avignon, filled with magnificent art and architecture and home to seven popes in the 14th century. A guided walking tour of Avignon will take us 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. The afternoon is open to explore at leisure.
This evening, return to our ship for a delightful Provençal dining experience, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale.
Day 7
Arles
Today brings us to the town of Arles in the Provence region. Once an important Phoenician trading port, Arles was a thriving city during the height of the Roman empire, and iconic monuments from this period can be found scattered around the city. Our tour of the city will showcase some of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles including the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre, which provided seating for 20,000 Roman citizens and was converted into a fortress after the fall of the Roman empire.
The afternoon is open to explore at leisure, perhaps stopping at a local café or returning to your ship to relax onboard.
Day 8
Arles to Marseille
DAY 1 Post-trip
Arrival to Provence
Today we’ll make our way southeast through the countryside to the fabled region of Provence, traveling by private transfer from from Arles to Aix-en-Provence, known as “the city of a thousand fountains” for its iconic fountains spread throughout the historic city center. We’ll have time to settle into our accommodations and explore our new surroundings. This evening, gather for a wine-paired dinner in the city center, savoring the flavors of the region.
DAY 2 Post-trip
Cassis
This morning, we’ll head south to the picturesque coastal village of Cassis. Our first stop will be a winery in the renowned Cassis appellation for a tour of the cellars and tasting of the local wines. Known predominantly for its white wines, the Cassis appellation was one of the first AOCs to be created in France in 1936, along with Sauternes and Châteauneuf du Pape. After the visit, we'll continue into town to explore the charming streets and enjoy a lunch of regional Provençal flavors.
This afternoon, embark on a boat cruise and experience the towering limestone cliffs and clear azure waters of Calanques National Park. The evening is open to relax and check out one of the many local restaurant choices.
DAY 3 Post-trip
Aix en Provence
Today, we’ll immerse ourselves in the cultural treasures of Aix-en-Provence. Start the day with a market visit, where we'll select fresh local ingredients that we’ll use in a cooking class inspired by Provençal culinary tradition, followed by a delicious lunch of our own creation. Afterward, take a walking tour of the town with a knowledgeable local guide. Stroll along the historic streets lined with elegant mansions and vibrant squares and delve into the city's rich history, soak in the stories of renowned figures like painter Paul Cézanne, who once called the city home. Enjoy an open evening to unwind and explore the city at your own pace.
DAY 4 Post-trip
Departure
After breakfast, check out and take a private transfer to Marseille Provence Airport to catch return flights home. Au revoir!
Accommodations
Emerald Liberté
Specially commissioned to sail the Rhône and Saône, the sleek and stylish Emerald Liberté was launched in 2017. With a capacity of 132 guests, the ship represents the next generation of river cruising with suites, staterooms, and public spaces set across four beautifully-appointed decks.
Meals are served in the light and airy Reflections Restaurant, which boasts expansive windows that showcase the passing scenery. Mirroring the sophistication and beauty of the French countryside, the ship offers locally-sourced, authentic fine-dining paired with wines selected by onboard sommeliers, providing a level of service comparable to that of a world-class hotel.
A favorite spot on the ship is the Sun Deck, where you can relax and soak in the Mediterranean climate or sink a few balls on the putting green. The heated pool at the stern of the ship has a retractable glass roof to let in a cool breeze on a warm day and can be transformed into a cinema in the evening. The ship also features the popular Horizon Bar & Lounge, offering an elegant and comfortable setting to enjoy your favorite drinks.
Other amenities on the ship include a small well-equipped gym, a wellness area with spa facilities, complimentary WiFi, and a fleet of bikes that are available to guests. Staterooms feature individual climate control, complimentary water, flat screen TV, personal safe, and en suite bathrooms with shower, toiletries, hairdryer, bathrobe, and slippers.
Boutique Hotel Cezanne (Provence post-trip Extension)
Nestled in the picturesque region of Provence, Boutique Hotel Cezanne stands as a testament to refined luxury and artistic inspiration. With a rich history dating back to the 19th century, this boutique hotel seamlessly blends classic elegance with contemporary flair.
Each room is a sanctuary of tranquility, featuring plush bedding, carefully selected furnishings, and an array of amenities that cater to the needs of discerning travelers. Guests can expect amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, minibars, coffee and tea-making facilities, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
The Fine Print
Questions? Get in touch.
Details
Dates
Flight Information
Activity Level
This trip has been designed to include daily exploratory walks that range from one to three hours. Each day, whether touring a city or winery, guests should be prepared to be on their feet for multiple continuous hours. Guests should feel comfortable strolling along cobbled surfaces, walking up and down stairs, and sauntering down uneven nature paths. Europe tends to have Old World infrastructure (narrow cobblestone streets, lack of elevators, etc.), which can leave some areas inaccessible. Typically, our more invigorating walks are included as optional activities. If your mobility is limited in any way, or if you have questions, please contact our Guest Services team at guestservices@experi.com.
Note: The itinerary is subject to change or substitution at any time. You can learn more at experi.com/agreement.
Included
- Seven nights accommodations, including all taxes and fees
- Meals as listed on the itinerary: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners, plus wine pairings with most major meals
- All private excursions described in the itinerary along with services of local speakers, guides, entrance fees, and transportation
- Gratuities for local guides, drivers, porters, and included meals
- Private airport transfers with porterage on the first and last scheduled days of the program
Not Included
- Pre-and post-trip accommodations and associated expenses
- Air and land transportation to/from host cities
- All types of personal insurance
- Personal expenses
- Additional alcoholic beverages beyond what has been arranged by Experi to pair with the included major meals
Categories & Rates*
Horizon Deck
Owners One-Bedroom Suite (SA)
Grand Balcony Suite (S)
Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
Vista Deck
Panorama Balcony Suite Fore (B)
Panorama Balcony Suite Aft (C)
Riviera Deck
Stateroom Fore (D)
Stateroom Aft (E)
Single Stateroom (ES)
Extension Rates*
Double Occupancy (per person)
Single Occupancy
*Rates are per person in US Dollars.
Deposits
Travel Insurance
Experi highly recommends you consider travel insurance. Learn more about options and how it can help you prepare for the unexpected at https://experi.com/travelinsurance/
Travel Terms & Conditions
We handcraft & operate specialty group travel programs to the world's best destinations. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
