Discover the Rivers of France & Portugal 2026 - 15 Days

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Description

Summary

Starts
Nice
Duration
15 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
12 years

Description

Embark on an unforgettable 15-day journey through the heart of France and Portugal, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of guided excursions, cultural experiences, and leisure time, allowing you to explore iconic cities like Arles, Avignon, and Porto. Discover the rich heritage of the Roman Empire, the artistic legacy of Vincent van Gogh, and the culinary delights of Lyon. Sail through the picturesque Douro Valley, visit medieval towns, and indulge in wine tastings at renowned vineyards. With luxurious accommodations aboard the Emerald Cruises Star-Ship and Emerald Radiance, you'll enjoy exceptional service and comfort throughout your adventure. Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, savoring local cuisine, or simply relaxing on deck, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience. Join us for a journey that captures the essence of these captivating regions, leaving you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for their timeless beauty.

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Included

14 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 13 dinners

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Airport transfers outside Australia are included

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14 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship

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The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director

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14 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship

Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship

The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director

Port taxes and charges

All tipping and gratuities

Guided tour of Arles with arena visit

Guided tour of Avignon

Guided tour of Viviers

Guided tour of Tournon

Guided tour of Lyon

Visit to the Hospices de Beaune

Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting

Guided tour of Salamanca

Tour to Castelo Rodrigo

Guided tour of Lamego & Our Lady of Remedies Sanctuary

Guided tour of Porto

Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

Classical Concert in Avignon

Cheese and olive tasting on board

Portuguese cooking demonstration on board

Port wine cocktail lesson on board

Tuna music performance

Rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca

Mosaic tile painting lesson on board

Evening cruise through Porto

Canoeing excursion in Avignon

Guided hike through the vineyards in Tournon

Guided bike tour of Lyon

Guided active walk through the vineyards

Kayak experience in Pinhão

Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies

Guided active walk in Porto

39 delectable meals including 14 breakfasts (B), 11 lunches (L), 14 dinners (D)

Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner

Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board

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Map

Attractions

Photo of Corner of the renaissance style Casa de las Conchas in Salamanca, world heritage city, Spain .Casa de las Conchas
photo of Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes), once fortress and palace, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, at morning, Avignon, France.Palais des Papes
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune, Beaune, Côte-d'Or, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Metropolitan France, FranceHôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Frog Salamanca, Centro, Salamanca, Castile and León, SpainFrog Salamanca
Aerial view of The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and Lyon city.The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière is a minor basilica in Lyon.La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Anaya Palace, Centro, Salamanca, Castile and León, SpainAnaya Palace
photo of the Roman Arles Amphitheatre in the Old Town of Arles in France.Arles Amphitheatre
Castelo Rodrigo's Castle
Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa
Casino da Póvoa
Quinta do Bomfim
Photo of Casa da Música, Porto ,Portugal.Casa da Música

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Marseille to Arles

  • Nice
  • Arles
  • Marseille - Arrival day
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Your French adventure begins as you arrive in Marseille, where you'll be warmly greeted and transferred to the charming city of Arles. Here, you'll board the luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, your home for the next few days. Enjoy a delightful welcome reception and dinner, setting the tone for the journey ahead.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Arles

  • Arles
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  • Arles Amphitheatre
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Immerse yourself in the rich history of Arles, a city that boasts a remarkable Roman heritage. Visit the iconic Arles Amphitheatre, a testament to the city's ancient past. Explore the artistic legacy of Vincent van Gogh, who found inspiration in Arles' enchanting landscapes. In the evening, savor a Provençal dinner prepared by a renowned local chef.

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Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Avignon's Historical Splendor

  • Avignon
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  • Palais des Papes
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Step back in time in Avignon, a city with a storied past as the residence of Popes. Marvel at the grandeur of the Palais des Papes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the evening, enjoy a classical concert, adding a touch of elegance to your day. For the adventurous, a canoeing excursion offers a unique perspective of Avignon.

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Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Medieval Charm of Viviers

Day 4: Medieval Charm of Viviers

Experience the quaint charm of Viviers, a town that perfectly captures the essence of medieval France. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets lined with pastel-colored buildings. A guided walking tour will reveal the town's hidden gems and historical significance.

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Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Tournon's Scenic Beauty

Day 5: Tournon's Scenic Beauty

Sail into Tournon, where a 16th-century castle overlooks the village. Discover the rich history and culture of Tournon during a guided tour. Alternatively, embark on a hike through the local vineyards, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

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Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Culinary Delights of Lyon

  • Lyon
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  • La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
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Explore Lyon, a city renowned for its culinary excellence and historical significance. Join a guided tour to discover the city's architectural wonders, including the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. For those seeking adventure, a guided bike tour offers a dynamic way to experience Lyon's vibrant atmosphere.

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Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Beaune's Architectural Marvels

  • Beaune
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  • Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Journey to Beaune, the heart of Burgundy's wine region and the birthplace of photography. Visit the Hospices de Beaune, a stunning example of 15th-century French architecture. Enjoy a cheese and olive tasting on board, celebrating the region's culinary heritage.

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Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Transition to Porto

  • Lyon
  • Porto
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Bid farewell to Lyon as you transfer to Porto, where the second leg of your river cruise begins. Settle into your new surroundings aboard the Emerald Radiance Star-Ship, ready to explore the wonders of Portugal.

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Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Scenic Douro Valley

Day 9: Scenic Douro Valley

Relax on board as you sail through the picturesque Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich wine-producing history. Enjoy a welcome dinner and cocktail reception, setting the stage for your Portuguese adventure.

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Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Vineyard Exploration

Day 10: Vineyard Exploration

  • Quinta do Bomfim
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Visit the stunning Quinta do Tedo vineyard, nestled in the heart of the Douro Valley. Enjoy a wine tasting experience and learn about traditional viticulture methods. Alternatively, embark on a guided walk or kayak excursion, taking in the breathtaking views of the valley.

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Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Salamanca's Golden Heritage

  • Salamanca
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  • Casa de las Conchas
  • Frog Salamanca
  • Anaya Palace
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Explore the ancient city of Salamanca, known for its rich history and stunning architecture. Discover the beauty of Plaza Mayor, Casa de las Conchas, and the University of Salamanca. Enjoy a guided walking tour and immerse yourself in the city's vibrant culture.

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Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Medieval Castelo Rodrigo

Day 12: Medieval Castelo Rodrigo

  • Castelo Rodrigo's Castle
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Visit the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo, where you'll uncover its fortress history and sample local delicacies. Return to your Star-Ship for lunch and enjoy a Port wine cocktail lesson as you sail towards Régua.

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Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Lamego's Baroque Beauty

  • Lamego
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  • Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lapa
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Explore the Baroque village of Lamego and visit the stunning Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies. Enjoy a rural lunch at Quinta da Pacheca and participate in a mosaic tile painting lesson on board. For the active, a walk down the Sanctuary's steps offers a rewarding experience.

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Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Porto's Architectural Wonders

  • Porto
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  • Casino da Póvoa
  • Casa da Música
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Discover Porto, a city where modern and ancient architecture coexist harmoniously. Explore the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo. Enjoy a guided tour or an active walk through the city, experiencing Porto's vibrant culture and history.

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Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Farewell to Porto

  • Porto - Departure day
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Conclude your journey with a farewell breakfast in Porto. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking landscapes you've encountered throughout your cruise. Depart with cherished memories of your time in France and Portugal.

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