Colors of Provence (Christmas Cruise) 2024
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 8-day journey through the vibrant colors of Provence. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and gastronomy, taking you from the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Lyon to the Roman ruins of Arles. Along the way, you'll indulge in the finest French vintages in Beaujolais, explore the ancient city of Vienne, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Avignon's Christmas markets. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an art enthusiast, this tour promises a wealth of experiences that will linger in your memory long after the journey ends.
Included
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations
Desk and sitting area
Bottled water replenished daily
AmaKristina: Suite
All onboard dining in a variety of venues
Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
Welcome cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
Cruise ship
Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
Knowledgeable guides
Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Sun deck whirlpool and walking track
Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
Daily entertainment including cultural performances
Immersive tours in every destination
Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
Bike tours and hikes
Special Interest Tours
Personal headset for easy exploration
Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
Destinations
Lyon
Arles
AvignonMap
Attractions
Pont du Gard
Parc des Berges du Rhône
Wall of the Canuts
Palais des Papes
Jardin de La Fontaine
Château de Crussol
La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Château de Grignan
Safari de Peaugres
Museum of ancient Arles and Provence
Musée AmpèreDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Provence
- Vence - Arrival day
- More
Your Colors of Provence cruise begins today. Board the ship and settle into your comfortable accommodations. Enjoy a welcome dinner onboard as we set sail for an unforgettable journey through the heart of France. (D)
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Lyon
- Lyon
- More
- Parc des Berges du Rhône
- Wall of the Canuts
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- Porte des Enfants du Rhône
- Tour d'Oingt
- More
Today, we delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of Lyon. Our journey begins at Fourvière Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we'll visit the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. We then venture into the old town and the St. Jean district, exploring the city's unique covered walkways, known as 'traboules.' We'll also have time to browse the festive Lyon Christmas Markets and sample local delicacies at Les Halles Market. For the more active, a guided bike tour through the city is available. (B,L,D)
Day 3 – Day 3: Beaujolais Wine Experience
- Lyon
- More
- Palais de la Bourse de Lyon
- More
On our second day in Lyon, we embark on a culinary adventure to the Beaujolais wine region, known as the 'land of the golden stones.' Here, we'll indulge in a wine tasting at a traditional winery, learning about the history and techniques of their vineyard. This gastronomic journey promises to be a highlight of your trip. (B,L,D)
Day 4 – Day 4: Vienne - A City of Ancient Wonders
Day 4: Vienne - A City of Ancient Wonders
- Fontaine de Place Antonin Poncet
- Place Bellecour
- Safari de Peaugres
- Musée Ampère
- More
Today, we journey to Vienne, a city nestled between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. We'll follow the footsteps of the ancient Romans, visiting the well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, and St. Pierre Abbey, which now serves as an Archaeological Museum. For those seeking a more active experience, a guided hike to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or a bike tour along the ViaRhôna route are available. (B,L,D)
Day 5 – Day 5: Wine, Chocolate, and History in Tournon
- Saint-Péray
- More
- Château de Crussol
- Armenian Heritage Center
- More
Today, we visit Le Château de Tournon for a unique presentation and tasting of red wine and chocolate. For those seeking a more active experience, a hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage is available, followed by a visit to a local winery for a wine tasting. Later, we'll stroll through the city with a guide in Renaissance attire, as actors in period costumes reenact historical events and legends. This special historical tour promises to be both entertaining and informative. (B,L,D)
Day 6 – Day 6: Avignon - The City of Popes
- Avignon
- Grignan
- More
- The Arles market
- Remparts d'Avignon
- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
- Château de Grignan
- More
Today, we explore Avignon, known as the 'City of Popes.' We'll discover its history on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and enjoy the lively Christmas markets. For food lovers, a culinary tour of Avignon is available, featuring tastings of regional specialties. More active guests can enjoy a bike tour through the city. In the afternoon, we'll visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct, or the charming hilltop village of Grignan, where we'll go in search of the prized 'Black Diamond' truffles. (B,L,D)
Day 7 – Day 7: Arles - A City of Art and History
- Arles
- Avignon
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- Saint-Rémy-de-Provence
- More
- Palais des Papes
- Jardin de La Fontaine
- Arles Amphitheatre
- Abbaye of Saint-Roman
- Langlois Bridge
- Museum of ancient Arles and Provence
- More
Today, we visit Arles, a city rich in history and art. Our journey begins with a trip to Les Baux de Provence, a hilltop village with a ruined castle. We'll also visit the Carrières de Lumières, an art center set in a former limestone quarry, and an olive farm for a tasting. We'll then explore Saint Rémy de Provence, where Van Gogh painted some of his most famous works. In Arles, we'll visit the Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime. For those interested in Van Gogh's legacy, a special walking tour and a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation are available. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône to the Langlois Bridge, a subject of several Van Gogh paintings. (B,L,D)
Day 8 – Day 8: Farewell to Provence
- Arles - Departure day
- More
Our Colors of Provence tour comes to an end today. After breakfast, prepare for your onward journey. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of the history, culture, and gastronomy of this beautiful region. (B)
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