Spectacular South of France & Delightful Douro
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of France and Portugal, where history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes await. Begin your journey in Lyon, France's culinary capital, and cruise along the picturesque Saône and Rhône Rivers. Explore charming towns, medieval villages, and iconic landmarks, from the Gothic splendor of Avignon to the Roman heritage of Arles. Savor the flavors of Burgundy and Provence, and immerse yourself in the artistic legacy of the region. Continue your adventure in Portugal's Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards and historic quintas line the riverbanks. Discover the vibrant cities of Porto and Salamanca, and indulge in the rich traditions of Portuguese wine and cuisine. With luxurious accommodations aboard the Scenic Space-Ship and Scenic Azure, this tour promises an enchanting blend of relaxation, exploration, and cultural enrichment. Join us for a journey that will captivate your senses and create lasting memories.
Included
17 breakfasts, 15 lunches, 17 dinners
Airport transfers outside Australia are included
Luxurious suites
Scenic Azure: Royal Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite, Scenic Sapphire: Royal Owner's Suite ,Royal Suite ,Royal Panorama Suite ,Junior Suite ,Suite ,Standard Suite
Expert cruise director
All sightseeing and activities stated as included.
Map
Attractions
Douro Museum
Pont du Gard
Bridge Park
Museum of Fine Arts Dijon
Castle Pinhel
Museu de Lamego
Jardim da Carreira
Palais des Papes
Salamanca Cathedral
Parc des Hauteurs
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Castle of Guimarães
La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
Sautadet Falls
Château de Grignan
Langlois Bridge
Quinta do Farejal
Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
Le Sentier des Ocres
Arribes del Duero Natural Park
forum des CardeursDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Lyon
- Lyon - Arrival day
- More
Begin your enchanting journey in the vibrant city of Lyon, France's third-largest city known for its rich history and culinary delights. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the luxurious Scenic Sapphire (or similar), where a warm welcome awaits. Spend the afternoon exploring the ship, relaxing in your suite, or enjoying a drink on the Sun Deck while taking in the stunning views of Lyon.
Day 2 – Day 2: Chalon-sur-Saône and Beaune
- Beaune
- More
- Museum of Fine Arts Dijon
- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
- More
Awake to the gentle cruise along the Saône River, arriving at Chalon-sur-Saône, a charming town with a rich history. Choose from a guided tour of Beaune, exploring the Gothic marvel of Les Hospices, or visit a local Burgundy wine estate. Alternatively, delve into the town's World War II history along the old Demarcation Line. Return to your Scenic Space-Ship for a relaxing evening.
Day 3 – Day 3: Tournus and Surroundings
Day 3: Tournus and Surroundings
- Bird park Villars les Dombes
- Château de Cormatin Stephen Abragan
- More
Sail to Tournus, a town with Roman roots and a stunning abbey. Choose from a visit to the historic Château de Cormatin, a truffle tasting experience, or a cooking class at Georges Blanc's renowned restaurant in Vonnas. Witness the art of cooperage near your ship. Enjoy a special dinner featuring local truffles prepared by your onboard chef.
Day 4 – Day 4: Tournon and Tain l'Hermitage
- Tain-l'Hermitage
- More
- Train de l'Ardèche
- Musée de Valence, art et archéologie
- More
Arrive in Tournon, a picturesque village with terraced vineyards and a historic castle. Choose a walking tour to explore the village and its castle, or hike through the vineyards for a closer look at local wine production. Alternatively, bike along the Rhône River to the neighboring town of Tain l'Hermitage, home to the prestigious Valrhona Chocolate.
Day 5 – Day 5: Avignon - The City of Popes
- Avignon
- More
- Remparts d'Avignon
- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
- More
Cruise to Avignon, a city steeped in history and medieval architecture. Explore the magnificent Palais des Papes and the iconic Pont d'Avignon on a guided walking tour. Alternatively, visit the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, or enjoy a kayaking adventure along the Gardon River. In the evening, experience an exclusive classical concert and dinner at the Pope's Palace.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discover Provence
- Avignon
- Roussillon
- More
- Fort de Buoux
- Château de Grignan
- Le Sentier des Ocres
- forum des Cardeurs
- More
Explore the enchanting region of Provence, known for its vineyards and lavender fields. Visit the picturesque village of Gordes and the serene Senanque Abbey. Alternatively, enjoy a wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape or visit the Lavender Museum and the charming village of Roussillon. For culinary enthusiasts, join a chef at a local market and participate in a cooking class on board.
Day 7 – Day 7: Roman Heritage in Arles
- Arles
- Les Baux-de-Provence
- More
- Palais des Papes
- La Tour
- Langlois Bridge
- More
Arrive in Arles, a city rich in Roman history and once home to Vincent Van Gogh. Explore the impressive Roman amphitheatre, Las Arenas, or visit the medieval village of Les Baux and the captivating Carrières de Lumières art installation. Alternatively, learn about olive oil production at a local farm or create your own lavender-based cream at a Provence herbal workshop.
Day 8 – Day 8: Medieval Viviers
- Grignan
- More
- Sautadet Falls
- Monastère de Solan
- More
Discover the medieval charm of Viviers, a town with a rich heritage. Enjoy a guided walking tour to explore its architectural treasures, including the Cathedral of St. Vincent. Alternatively, learn about the French Resistance or visit the Ardèche Nature Park and the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum. Explore the stunning Madeleine Caves or the picturesque town of Grignan.
Day 9 – Day 9: Return to Lyon
- Lyon
- More
Sail back to Lyon, the gastronomic heart of France. Enjoy the scenic views from your suite or indulge in a relaxing massage. In the evening, experience an exclusive acapella choir performance in the stunning Trinity Chapel, a grand Baroque building adorned with Carrera marble.
Day 10 – Day 10: Explore Lyon
- Lyon
- More
- Parc des Hauteurs
- La Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière
- More
Discover the hidden traboules of Lyon and visit the majestic Notre Dame de Fourviere. Alternatively, participate in a silk painting workshop or explore the medieval village of Perouges. Spend the afternoon wandering Lyon's cobbled streets or sampling local dishes in a traditional bouchon. In the evening, enjoy a selection of desserts prepared by a local pâtissier.
Day 11 – Day 11: Transfer to Porto
- Lyon
- Porto
- More
Bid farewell to Lyon and board a flight to Porto, where you'll embark on the luxurious Scenic Azure (or similar) for a 7-night cruise along the Douro River. Settle into your new surroundings and prepare for the next leg of your journey.
Day 12 – Day 12: Cruising to Pinhão
Day 12: Cruising to Pinhão
- Douro Museum
- Piocas de Baixo
- More
Relax as your Scenic Space-Ship glides through the breathtaking Douro Valley, lined with terraced vineyards and majestic quintas. Arrive in Pinhão, a charming village known for its exceptional port wine. Explore the picturesque riverside train station, adorned with hand-painted tiles depicting the grape harvest.
Day 13 – Day 13: Discover Provesende
Day 13: Discover Provesende
- Jardim da Carreira
- More
Visit the charming village of Provesende, perched on a plateau with stunning views of the Douro Valley. Explore the village's historic sites, including the church and old bakery, and enjoy a tasting of traditional bola at the historic manor house, Morgadio da Calçada.
Day 14 – Day 14: Salamanca or Freixo de Espada à Cinta
- Salamanca
- More
- Salamanca Cathedral
- Arribes del Duero Natural Park
- More
Choose between a full-day excursion to Salamanca, known for its golden sandstone architecture and historic university, or visit the village of Freixo de Espada à Cinta, famous for its handcrafted silk. Explore the rich history and culture of these unique destinations.
Day 15 – Day 15: Pocinho to Regua
- Peso da Régua
- More
- Castle Pinhel
- Carrascalinho Lookout
- More
Wake in Pocinho and choose between a visit to the Côa Valley Museum, showcasing paleolithic rock art, or a tasting experience at Casa Painova estate. In the afternoon, relax as you cruise to Regua, a town renowned for its port wine production and scenic vineyards.
Day 16 – Day 16: Explore Regua and Beyond
- Peso da Régua
- Lamego
- More
- Museu de Lamego
- Lamego Cathedral
- More
Awake in Regua and choose from a visit to the historic town of Lamego, a kayaking adventure on the Pinhao River, or a tour of the exquisite Mateus Palace. In the evening, enjoy a classical concert at the iconic Sao Francisco Church in Porto.
Day 17 – Day 17: Discover Porto
- Porto
- Guimarães
- More
- Bridge Park
- Castle of Guimarães
- Quinta do Farejal
- More
Explore the vibrant city of Porto with a guided tour, including a visit to the stunning Palacio da Bolsa. Alternatively, visit the historic city of Guimarães or enjoy a wine tasting at Quinta da Aveleda. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this captivating region.
Day 18 – Day 18: Farewell Porto
- Porto - Departure day
- More
After a delightful breakfast, disembark in Porto and transfer to the airport for your onward journey. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during this extraordinary multi-day tour through France and Portugal.
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.
