Burgundy, Provence & Paris

After settling into your stateroom, wander through the ship to get a feel for its relaxing lounges, scenic observation areas, and welcoming dining spaces. This first afternoon and evening is yours to unwind, meet fellow travelers, or relax on deck as the ship prepares for departure. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and let the anticipation build for the days ahead.

Accommodation: Avalon Poetry II (Dinner)

Begin the day at the Adventure Center, where your Adventure Host outlines today’s options. Join a power walk through Arles for a refreshing active start to the day, or take part in a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh, learning techniques and creating your own artwork. You may also choose to venture into rural Provence to visit a local farm and sample fresh olive oil, a true regional specialty. For a classic experience, join a guided walking tour of Arles to see its Roman Amphitheater and learn about the city’s rich history. After your chosen excursion, enjoy some free time to wander the quaint streets or stop at Le Café Van Gogh for a glass of wine before the ship departs for Avignon.

Accommodation: Avalon Poetry II (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Begin the morning with your Adventure Host, who will introduce today’s activities. Choose an active bike ride through Avignon to see the city from a different angle, or join a guided walk through the bustling Les Halles market followed by a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn classic French techniques. For a traditional experience, take a guided sightseeing tour of Avignon, exploring its medieval ramparts and visiting the impressive Palace of the Popes. Optional excursions include a visit to the remarkable Pont du Gard, an ancient Roman aqueduct, or a trip to the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a taste of Rhône Valley wines.
Later, enjoy time to explore Avignon on your own—discover its art galleries, theaters, and museums, or capture photos of the countryside and the historic Pont Saint-Bénézet. In the evening, return to the ship for live entertainment.

Accommodation: Avalon Poetry II (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Start the day on board with a crepes demonstration led by a French chef, where you can learn the art of making this classic treat while enjoying the scenic sail to Viviers. Once ashore, choose an active excursion with your Adventure Host, walking up to Viviers’ hilltop Cathedral for stunning views, or take a classic guided tour of the Old Town to discover its winding streets, historic architecture, and local culinary delights through included tastings. Whichever experience you choose, the charm of Viviers and its rich heritage make for a memorable day.

Accommodation: Avalon Poetry II (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Start the morning with your Adventure Host and choose your preferred way to explore Tournon. Take an active hike through the town and surrounding scenery, join a discovery excursion for a chocolate-filled tour of the Valrhona Chocolate Factory and Museum, or enjoy a classic guided walking tour to see Tournon’s medieval streets and its 16th-century castle. In the early afternoon, the ship sails to Mâcon while you relax and take in the Rhône’s scenic beauty. On board, experience a pastry demonstration led by a French chef, and later, delight in a French cuisine tasting dinner with wine pairings, guided by your Certified Sommelier. Conclude the evening with live entertainment on board.

Accommodation: Avalon Poetry II (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Begin the day with a journey into the rolling countryside of the Mâconnais region, where you’ll visit renowned Chardonnay vineyards and learn about the winemaking process. Step into the cellars of a medieval castle for a guided tasting of these world-famous wines. Later, back on board, delight in a cheese tasting featuring local varieties as the ship cruises toward Lyon. In the evening, experience a one-of-a-kind dinner inspired by legendary chef Paul Bocuse, celebrating the best of French cuisine in a memorable onboard setting.

Accommodation: Avalon Poetry II (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Start the day with your Adventure Host and choose your preferred way to experience Lyon. Take an active bike tour through the architectural districts, crossing bridges and following the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. For a culinary focus, join a guided walk to discover Lyon’s renowned gastronomy and local delicacies. Or, take a classic guided sightseeing tour from Fourvière Hill, enjoying panoramic views, exploring historic churches, and wandering the maze-like streets of the Old Town with its cafés and monuments. Later, spend some free time exploring at your own pace, whether riding through town squares, along the riverbanks, or soaking up the city’s lively atmosphere. Conclude the day with live entertainment on board.

Accommodation: TBA (Breakfast)

This morning, bid farewell to your ship crew and board the TGV train to Paris. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the city on your own. Stroll along famous shopping avenues, visit charming literary cafés, or simply take in the sights of Paris at your leisure. This afternoon and evening are yours to experience the city’s culture, style, and energy before your journey continues.

Accommodation: TBA (Breakfast)

Choose your morning adventure with a guided walk through the ancient heart of Paris, visiting highlights such as the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, historic sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, and the lively Latin Quarter. Alternatively, take a guided city tour to see Paris’ most famous sights and understand why it is celebrated as the world’s most romantic city. After your guided experience, enjoy free time to stroll the Champs-Élysées with a café au lait and croissant, explore the Louvre’s masterpieces, or visit Montmartre and the Basilica of the Sacré Cœur for sweeping city views.

This morning, savor one last breakfast on the ship before saying farewell to your fellow travelers and crew. Use this time to pack, take final photos, and carry the memories of your French adventure with you as you prepare for your departure.

(Breakfast)