A Culinary Experience in Burgundy & Provence with 2 Nights in Paris (Northbound) 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a 10-day immersive journey through the heart of France, exploring its rich history, vibrant culture, and exquisite cuisine. This multi-day tour takes you from the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence to the bustling city of Paris, offering a blend of guided tours, culinary experiences, and free time to explore at your own pace. Discover the ancient Roman ruins in Arles, the medieval charm of Avignon, the gastronomic delights of Lyon, and the iconic landmarks of Paris. Along the way, enjoy comfortable accommodation, delicious meals, and a range of activities designed to bring the French culture to life. Whether you're a history buff, a food lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, this tour offers something for everyone.
Included
7 nights onboard cruise ship
2 nights in Paris
Avalon Poetry II: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Cruise ship
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Marseille to Arles
- Marseille
- Arles - Arrival day
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Welcome to France! Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Marseille. Please ensure your flight arrives by 3 pm and board your Suite Ship® by 5 pm. Settle in and prepare for an exciting adventure as we set sail for Arles, where we'll dock overnight. Dinner will be served on board.
Day 2 – Day 2: Arles to Avignon
- Arles
- Avignon
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- L'espace Van Gogh
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Start your day with a power walk in Arles, or join a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, visiting the Roman Amphitheater and taking some free time to relax at Le Café Van Gogh. After a delicious crêpes lunch on board, we'll sail to Avignon, where we'll dock overnight.
Day 3 – Day 3: Exploring Avignon
- Avignon
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- Palais des Papes
- Pont du Gard Museum
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Today, we'll explore the fortress city of Avignon. Take a guided sightseeing tour, visiting the magnificent Palace of the Popes and the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet. Optional excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard or a trip to the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Enjoy some free time to explore the city's art, culture, and museums, before an evening of live entertainment on board.
Day 4 – Day 4: Viviers to Tain L’Hermitage
- Saint-Péray
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- Orange Cathedral
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Enjoy a leisurely morning sail to Viviers. Choose between a guided walk to the hilltop Cathedral or an extraordinary guided walk through the Old Town, complete with a tasting of local culinary delights. In the afternoon, you may opt to join one of the optional excursions on offer. We'll then cruise to Tain L’Hermitage, where we'll dock overnight.
Day 5 – Day 5: Tournon to Lyon
- Lyon
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- Armenian Heritage Center
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Explore Tournon on foot with your Adventure Host, or take a guided walking tour to discover the city's 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. In the afternoon, we'll cruise to Lyon. Enjoy a pastry demonstration by a French chef on board, followed by a French cuisine tasting dinner with wine pairing, escorted by your Master of Wine. We'll dock in Lyon overnight.
Day 6 – Day 6: Lyon to Tournus
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France on a culinary walk, or join a guided sightseeing tour to explore the city from Fourvière Hill and the Old Town. Spend some free time biking through Lyon's squares and along the river banks. In the evening, enjoy a unique dinner inspired by legendary chef Paul Bocuse. We'll then sail to Tournus, docking overnight.
Day 7 – Day 7: Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône
Day 7: Tournus to Chalon-sur-Saône
Travel into the Mâconnais region, famous for its Chardonnay vineyards. Learn about the wines produced here and attend a wine-tasting in the cellars of a medieval castle. Later, enjoy a delicious cheese tasting on board. In the evening, enjoy live entertainment as we sail to Chalon-sur-Saône, where we'll dock overnight.
Day 8 – Day 8: Dijon to Paris
- Dijon
- Paris
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Drive to Beaune and visit the Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital, a stunning example of French architecture from the 15th century. Afterwards, take a high-speed train from Dijon to Paris, the City of Light.
Day 9 – Day 9: Exploring Paris
- Paris
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- Champ de Mars
- Louvre Museum
- Arc de Triomphe
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
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Discover the ancient heart of Paris on a guided walk, featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, and more. Alternatively, join a guided city tour that showcases the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs-Élysées. Spend your free time exploring the city at your own pace.
Day 10 – Day 10: Farewell Paris
- Paris - Departure day
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Your unforgettable journey through France comes to an end. After breakfast, prepare for your onward journey. We hope you've enjoyed this immersive exploration of French culture, history, and cuisine, and look forward to welcoming you back on your next adventure.
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