Grand France with 2 Nights in French Riviera for Wine Lovers (Southbound) 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, art, and gastronomy intertwine to create an unforgettable journey. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, this tour offers a captivating blend of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Discover the artistic inspirations of Monet and Van Gogh, delve into the rich history of Normandy's beaches, and savor the culinary delights of Lyon. With luxurious accommodations aboard your Suite Ship® and expertly guided excursions, each day promises new adventures and cherished memories. Whether you're strolling through medieval towns, tasting exquisite wines, or marveling at architectural wonders, this tour is your gateway to 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
Avalon Waterways River cruise ship
16 nights of accommodation onboard an Avalon Waterways River cruise ship
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
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Paris
- Paris - Arrival day
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Arrive in the enchanting city of Paris, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits. Spend your afternoon exploring the romantic streets, indulging in shopping, or savoring a classic Parisian café experience. As evening falls, embark on a serene overnight cruise to Vernon, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through France.
Day 2 – Day 2: Vernon and Les Andelys
- Vernon
- Les Andelys
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- Château Gaillard
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Discover the artistic allure of Vernon with a visit to the Chateau des Tourelles or explore the inspirational grounds of Monet's House and Gardens. Alternatively, marvel at the grandeur of Bizy Castle. Enjoy a traditional French luncheon on board as you sail to the picturesque town of Les Andelys. Here, a guided walking tour reveals the charm of one of France's most scenic spots along the Seine.
Day 3 – Day 3: Caudebec
- Honfleur
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- Valmont Abbey
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Immerse yourself in the history of Normandy with a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, showcasing medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Seine. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Spend the night docked in Caudebec, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Seine.
Day 4 – Day 4: Normandy Beaches and Rouen
- Rouen
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- Tour Vauban de Tatihou
- Botanical Garden
- Arbre de la Liberté
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Pay homage to the heroes of WWII with a guided tour of Normandy's landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian sites or delve into Normandy's rich traditions with a brandy tasting in Calvados. As night falls, enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Rouen.
Day 5 – Day 5: Rouen and Conflans
- Rouen
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- Cleres Zoological Park
- Évreux Cathedral
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Explore Rouen, the city where Joan of Arc met her fate. A guided walking tour reveals the medieval quarter, the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the 16th-century Astronomical Clock. Alternatively, discover the city's hidden gems on a bike tour. As evening approaches, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Conflans.
Day 6 – Day 6: Conflans and Paris
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
- Queen's House
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Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon Bonaparte. Alternatively, embark on an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. As night falls, cruise back to the vibrant city of Paris.
Day 7 – Day 7: Paris
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
- Palais Garnier
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Delve into the heart of Paris with a guided walk through its historic sites, including the Palais-Royal and the Louvre pyramid. Alternatively, embark on a city tour to see iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Spend your afternoon exploring the city at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine at a Left Bank café.
Day 8 – Day 8: Paris to Beaune
- Paris
- Dijon
- Beaune
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Travel from Paris to Dijon by high-speed train, then continue to the charming town of Beaune. Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital, home to Van der Weyden's masterpiece, 'The Last Judgement.' In the afternoon, journey to Chalon-sur-Saône to board your Suite Ship® for an overnight docking in Tournus.
Day 9 – Day 9: Tournus and Mâcon
- Mâcon
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- Touroparc Zoo
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Explore Tournus, one of Burgundy's oldest monastic centers, with a guided tour highlighting its historical significance. In the afternoon, enjoy a wine tasting excursion to a Chardonnay cellar or attend a wine lecture hosted by your Master of Wine while sailing to Mâcon. Overnight docking in Trévoux offers a peaceful end to the day.
Day 10 – Day 10: Lyon
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Sail into the vibrant city of Lyon, renowned for its culinary delights. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour, exploring the architectural wonders from Fourvière Hill and the medieval alleyways of the Old Town. Alternatively, discover Lyon's architectural district by bike. In the evening, savor live entertainment on board as you dock overnight in Lyon.
Day 11 – Day 11: Lyon and Beaujolais
- Lyon
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- Berzé Castle
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Embark on a culinary walk through Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, or take a guided tour to the picturesque Beaujolais region to learn about its renowned wines. In the evening, enjoy an onboard food and wine pairing dinner hosted by your Master of Wine. As night falls, cruise to Tournon.
Day 12 – Day 12: Tournon and Viviers
- Avignon
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- Château de Crussol
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Explore the medieval charm of Tournon with a guided walking tour, including a visit to the Cité du Chocolat for a wine and chocolate tasting. Alternatively, hike through the vineyards for breathtaking views. In the afternoon, sail to Viviers, where a guided tour reveals its Romanesque cathedral and historical influences. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Avignon.
Day 13 – Day 13: Avignon
- Avignon
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- Palais des Papes
- Château de Grignan
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Uncover the history of Avignon with a guided tour of the fortress city, including a visit to the impressive Palace of the Popes. Alternatively, enjoy a trip to the renowned wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a taste of the Rhône wine region. As evening falls, enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Arles.
Day 14 – Day 14: Arles
- Arles
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- Arles Amphitheatre
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Experience the artistic spirit of Arles with a guided walking tour, including a visit to the Roman Amphitheater. Alternatively, participate in a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh or enjoy a power walk with your Adventure Host. Spend your free time relaxing at Le Café Van Gogh before an overnight docking in Arles.
Day 15 – Day 15: Arles to Nice
- Arles
- Nice
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After breakfast, journey to the glamorous city of Nice, located on the stunning French Riviera. Enjoy the scenic drive along the Mediterranean coast, taking in the breathtaking views as you approach the 'Queen of the French Riviera.'
Day 16 – Day 16: Nice
- Nice
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- #ILoveNICE
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Explore the vibrant city of Nice with a guided sightseeing tour. Discover the narrow, winding streets and baroque churches of Vieux Nice, the old city that has retained its charm since the 1700s. Spend your day soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere of this iconic French Riviera destination.
Day 17 – Day 17: Nice
- Nice - Departure day
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Conclude your extraordinary journey with a final breakfast in Nice. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights you've encountered throughout your multi-day tour of France.
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