Ultimate France (2025) (Bordeaux to Arles, 2025)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, culture, and gastronomy intertwine to create a truly unique experience. From the vineyards of Bordeaux to the artistic havens of Paris, this journey offers a rich tapestry of sights and flavors. Explore medieval towns, indulge in exquisite wines, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of iconic cities. With luxurious accommodations and expertly curated excursions, this tour promises an adventure filled with discovery and delight. Whether you're a history buff, a wine enthusiast, or an art lover, this grand tour of France has something for everyone.
Included
21-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the breathtaking
S.S. Bon Voyage
, the magical
S.S. Joie de Vivre
and the striking
S.S. Catherine
Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
Free Wi-Fi
S.S. Bon Voyage: Grand Suite ,Suite ,Deluxe ,Classic, S.S Joie de Vivre: Grand Suite ,Suite ,Deluxe Suite
1 country: France
7 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
TGV train between Lyon and Paris, and Paris and Bordeaux
Cultural enrichment, including captivating onboard local entertainment
Excursions included:
- Fresh Médoc Oysters Tasting
- Bourg sur Gironde Stroll
- Saint-Émilion Walking Tour with Wine Tasting
- Village Day: Libourne with Farmer's Market
- Nights Out: After Hours at the Bassins des Lumières
- Nights Out: Private Concert at the Rouen Cathedral
- Versailles Palace Secret Apartments
- Burgundy Landscapes, Beaune, and the Hospices
- Village Day: Ardèches
- Arles Walking Tour
Additional excursions to choose from:
- Médoc Châteaux Route with Private Wine Tasting
- Let’s Go: Bike in the Médoc Vineyards
- Private Owner's Tour of Royal Château with Sauternes Toast
- The Colorful Life of Toulouse-Lautrec
- Panoramas of Route de la Corniche Fleurie with Blaye Fortress
- Intimate Experience with Local Wine & Art Connoisseurs
- Do as the Locals Do: Bordeaux Walking Tour
- Let’s Go: Bike Bordeaux Backstreets
- Château de La Roche-Guyon
- Let's Go: Hike on the Crests Trail
- Monet’s Gardens at Giverny
- Let's Go: Bike Ride from Vernon to Giverny
- Rouen Walking Tour, the Dukes of Normandy’s Capital
- Camembert Cheese Farm
- Honfleur Walking Tour
- Let's Go: Golfing in Étretat
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of American Sites
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of British & Commonwealth Sites
- Normandy Beaches: Highlights of Canadian Sites
- Paris City Tour
- Paris Walking Tour of the Latin Quarter
- Lyon Panoramic Tour with Traboules Visit
- Silk Weavers Walking Tour
- Let's Go: Lyon Peninsula Bike Tour
- Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage Twin Villages Stroll with Wine Tasting
- Let's Go: Hermitage Terrace Vineyards Hike with Wine Tasting
- Avignon Walking Tour with Palace of the Popes
- Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct Visit
Cruise Managers
Meals as per itinerary.
S.S. Bon Voyage or S.S. Joie de Vivre or S.S. Catherine
High Speed Train
Destinations
Map
Attractions
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Bordeaux
- Bordeaux - Arrival day
- More
- Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts
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Welcome to the enchanting city of Bordeaux, where your journey begins. Upon arrival at Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by a representative and transferred to your luxurious cruise ship, your home for the next leg of this unforgettable adventure.
Day 2 – Exploring the Médoc Region
- Bordeaux
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- Musée d'Aquitaine tram stop
- Tour Pey-Berland
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Embark on a scenic drive through the legendary Médoc region, renowned for its prestigious wine estates and endless vineyards. Indulge in a wine tasting at a beautiful estate, savoring the rich flavors of the region's finest offerings.
Day 3 – The Sweet Life in Cadillac
The Sweet Life in Cadillac
- Château Peixotto
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Discover the charm of Cadillac, a town famed for its dessert wines. Visit the historic Château Royal de Cazeneuve, where tales of royal romance come alive. Enjoy a toast with the owner, savoring a glass of exquisite Sauternes.
Day 4 – Journey to Blaye
Journey to Blaye
- place du Parlement
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Travel along the picturesque Route de la Corniche Fleurie to the historic Blaye Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage site once protected Bordeaux from maritime threats. Explore its rich history and enjoy the stunning views.
Day 5 – Wine and History in Saint-Émilion
- Saint-Émilion
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- Monolithic Church of Saint-Emilion
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From Libourne, venture to the medieval town of Saint-Émilion. Wander through its cobblestone streets, explore wine shops, and admire the rock-hewn church that lies beneath the city.
Day 6 – Market Day in Libourne
- La Sauve
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- Base sous-marine
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Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Libourne's farmer's market, where the freshest produce, cheeses, and breads await. Experience the heart of French culinary tradition.
Day 7 – Discovering Bordeaux
- Bordeaux
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- Bordeaux Museum of Fine Arts
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Explore Bordeaux's charming backstreets on foot or by bike. This UNESCO World Heritage city offers a delightful mix of history and modernity, with plenty of opportunities for discovery.
Day 8 – Transfer to Paris
- Paris
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- Grand Trianon
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Disembark your ship and board a high-speed TGV train to Paris. Your next adventure awaits as you prepare to explore the wonders of the Seine aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre.
Day 9 – Inspiration in Giverny
- Giverny
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- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Visit the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny. Choose between a scenic hike or a bike ride through the picturesque French countryside to reach this artistic haven.
Day 10 – Historic Rouen
- Rouen
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- Évreux Cathedral
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Walk through the medieval streets of Rouen, a city steeped in history. Visit the cathedral immortalized by Monet and explore sites linked to Joan of Arc's legacy.
Day 11 – Seaside Charm in Honfleur
- Honfleur
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- Labyrinthe de Honfleur
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From Caudebec-en-Caux, journey to the picturesque harbor of Honfleur. Stroll through its charming streets and soak in the artistic ambiance that has inspired countless painters.
Day 12 – Remembrance at Normandy
- Étretat
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- Botanical Garden
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Experience the profound history of the Normandy beaches. Choose to explore American, British, or Canadian sites and partake in a private memorial ceremony honoring Operation Overlord.
Day 13 – Royal Splendor in Versailles
- Versailles
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- Palace of Versailles
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Step into the opulent world of French royalty at the Palace of Versailles. Explore the secret apartments and marvel at the grandeur of this historic palace.
Day 14 – Exploring Paris
- Paris
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- Jardin des plantes
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Discover the timeless allure of Paris. Choose between a panoramic city tour or a walk through the historic Latin Quarter, immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of the City of Light.
Day 15 – Arrival in Lyon
- Lyon
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- Musée Ampère
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Transfer to Lyon via high-speed train and settle into your new accommodations. Explore the vibrant city nestled alongside the Saône River, known for its rich history and culinary delights.
Day 16 – Exploring Ancient Lyon
- Lyon
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- Tour d'Oingt
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Discover the contrasts of Lyon, from its Roman roots to modern architecture. Explore the city's secret passageways, known as traboules, and enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional bouchon.
Day 17 – Wine and History in Beaune
- Beaune
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Explore the heart of Burgundy's wine trade in Beaune. Visit the medieval Hospices de Beaune and enjoy the picturesque landscapes that define this renowned wine region.
Day 18 – Twin Villages of Tournon and Tain-l'Hermitage
- Tain-l'Hermitage
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- Armenian Heritage Center
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Discover the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l'Hermitage, known for their rich history and fine wines. Enjoy a stroll through the vineyards and indulge in a wine tasting experience.
Day 19 – Timeless Viviers
- Tain-l'Hermitage
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- Orange Cathedral
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Step back in time in the enchanting village of Viviers. Explore its storied past and architectural heritage as you wander through the town's upper and lower parts.
Day 20 – Historic Wonders of Avignon
- Avignon
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- Palais des Papes
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Explore the walled city of Avignon, home to the Palace of the Popes. Discover the rich history and architectural marvels of this fascinating town in southern France.
Day 21 – Artistic Inspiration in Arles
- Arles
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- Roman Theatre of Arles
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Discover the sun-drenched town of Arles, known for its remarkable Roman ruins and artistic legacy. Explore the sites that inspired Van Gogh's masterpieces.
Day 22 – Departure from Marseille
- Marseille - Departure day
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- The Marseille Soap Museum
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Conclude your extraordinary journey with a transfer to Marseille Airport for your flight home. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during this grand tour of France.
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