Burgundy & Provence with 2 Nights in French Riviera for Wine Lovers (Southbound) 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, culture, and gastronomy intertwine to create an unparalleled travel experience. From the vibrant streets of Lyon to the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, each day offers a new adventure filled with captivating sights, exquisite flavors, and enriching activities. Whether you're exploring medieval towns, savoring world-class wines, or soaking in the artistic ambiance of Provence, this journey promises to leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the timeless allure of France.
Included
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
Cruise ship
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
Avalon Poetry II: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
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
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to the Heart of France
- Lyon - Arrival day
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Begin your enchanting journey in the vibrant city of Lyon, where your luxurious Suite Ship awaits. As you settle in, enjoy a delightful dinner onboard while the ship docks overnight in the charming town of Tournus.
Day 2 – Exploring Southern Burgundy
- Mâcon
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- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
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Discover the historical allure of Tournus, a monastic center with a rich past. Engage in a wine-tasting excursion at a local Chardonnay cellar, and enjoy an enlightening lecture on wine as you sail towards Mâcon, docking overnight in Trévoux.
Day 3 – The Charms of Lyon
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Sail to the captivating city of Lyon, where you can explore its architectural wonders by bike or on foot. Visit the iconic Fourvière Hill and the bustling Place des Terreaux. Enjoy onboard entertainment and a WWII lecture as you dock overnight in Lyon.
Day 4 – Gastronomic Delights of Lyon
- Lyon
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- Cluny Abbey
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Embark on a culinary adventure through Lyon, renowned as France's gastronomic capital. Visit the picturesque Beaujolais region for a wine tour, and indulge in a gourmet dinner onboard as you cruise to Tournon.
Day 5 – Vineyards and Medieval Marvels
Vineyards and Medieval Marvels
- Musée de Valence, art et archéologie
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Explore Tournon's medieval charm and its 16th-century castle. Delight in a wine and chocolate tasting at the Cité du Chocolat Valrhona. Sail to Viviers, where a guided tour reveals its Romanesque cathedral and historical influences.
Day 6 – Avignon's Historical Grandeur
- Avignon
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- Palais des Papes
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Journey to Avignon, the fortress city encircled by ancient ramparts. Discover the majestic Palace of the Popes and savor the flavors of Châteauneuf-du-Pape wines. Enjoy live entertainment as you cruise towards Arles.
Day 7 – Artistic Inspirations in Arles
- Arles
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- Arles Amphitheatre
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Immerse yourself in Arles, a city that inspired Van Gogh. Participate in a painting workshop or explore the Roman Amphitheater. Relish a wine and chocolate tasting onboard and unwind at Le Café van Gogh.
Day 8 – Mediterranean Marvels
- Arles
- Nice
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Travel to the stunning French Riviera, where the azure waters of the Mediterranean meet the vibrant city of Nice. Enjoy a leisurely day soaking in the sun and the scenic beauty of this coastal paradise.
Day 9 – Exploring the Queen of the Riviera
- Nice
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- #ILoveNICE
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Delve into the historic charm of Vieux Nice, with its narrow streets and baroque churches. Experience the timeless allure of the old city, unchanged since the 1700s, as you conclude your journey in this enchanting locale.
Day 10 – Farewell to the French Riviera
- Nice - Departure day
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Savor a final breakfast in Nice, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes that have defined your journey through the heart of France.
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