Discover the Rhône & Seine Rivers: 15 days Marseille to Paris

Welcome to France and the beginning of your cruise. You’ll be met by a member of our team at the airport and transferred to Arles, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship. Your ship will remain docked in Arles overnight, giving you time to explore the city at your leisure.

Emerald Cruises transfers are only available for flights arriving into Marseille prior to 04:30 PM.

Emerald Cruises transfers are only available for flights arriving into Nice prior to 12:00PM. Please contact us if you wish to secure this option.

The past is yours to uncover in Arles. The city was once an important Phoenician trading port, before being captured by the Romans, who peppered the region with iconic monuments. It has been a favourite retreat for legendary artists like Van Gogh and Gauguin, drawn to its unique light and arresting beauty. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dine with your fellow guests. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
Discover Arles’ remarkable Roman heritage on a guided walking tour through one of France’s best-preserved ancient cities. Stroll past iconic landmarks such as the Roman Amphitheatre, ancient forum, and Roman baths, while learning how Arles once thrived as a major outpost of the Roman Empire. Along winding streets and sun-washed squares, history comes alive through stories of emperors, gladiators, and everyday life in Roman Gaul. 

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh with a painting workshop (extra expense)
Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh as you explore the landscapes that inspired his iconic works. Afterwards, take part in a painting workshop, where you’ll try your hand at recreating the vibrant scenes that captured the artist’s imagination. As a memory from this unique experience, you get to bring home your own masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s legacy.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

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Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)  Set in the heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, Les Baux de Provence is a World Heritage-listed site, recognised for being ‘one of the most beautiful villages in France’. Compact, with several shops and restaurants, the village retains its traditional style, with its narrow cobblestone streets and grey medieval stone buildings. The high, rocky pinnacle of Château-Fortress des Baux extends southwest of the village, and the incredible views make the trip very worthwhile.  Activity Level: Difficult / Active   Duration: 4 hours 

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Lavender Distillery – from Field to Perfume (extra expense)
Experience the timeless art of Provençal soap-making in this hands-on workshop. Learn the traditional techniques used to create luxurious soaps from natural ingredients like olive oil, lavender, and other local botanicals. Create your own artisanal soap, guided by expert craftsmen, and take home a unique, fragrant souvenir of your Provençal experience.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration 3 hours

Avignon has a rich history, from its Celtic beginnings to its powerful position as the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. It’s most famous for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as other glorious medieval architecture and a world-renowned arts festival. The city also played a significant role in the French Revolution, resulting in several violent conflicts.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon
Explore the World Heritage-listed highlights that adorn Avignon’s ancient town centre, as you venture down its cobbled alleyways. Witness the splendour of the Pont d’Avignon, a 12th-century bridge, and soak in sights of some of the medieval architecture that generously pepper the city.

EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon
Choose an active way to explore the region. Travel north of Avignon to board a canoe and paddle back towards town along the Rhône River. The wide, calm waters are ideal for canoeing, and you’ll get to take in the picturesque landscapes from a completely new perspective. You’ll even get to paddle beneath the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval landmark.

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Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
In the heart of Provence, the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct is one of humankind’s great masterpieces. This three-level Roman aqueduct is 275 metres long and 48 metres high, and served as an aqueduct until the sixth century. Later, it was used as a toll gate, before being transformed into a road bridge. As well as marvelling at this wonderful feat of engineering, you’ll visit the small Roman town of Uzès, ideal for exploring and enjoying some great food in the local restaurants.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 4.5 hours 

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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
The appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the most famous in France, known for its warm red blends and creamy whites. The village itself has centuries of history that will charm and delight, including the picturesque ruins of a 14th-century castle. Enjoy a curated tasting of the region’s famous wines at a local vineyard.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.25 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale
This evening, you'll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Dine on authentic dishes that celebrate the flavours of the region and its abundant fresh produce. Chef Fabien brings his passion for food to the table during this immersive dining experience, where he engages guests and shares his extensive knowledge and passion for Provençal cuisine.

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon
Enjoy a private classical concert set within a historic chapel where centuries-old stone walls create exceptional acoustics and a truly atmospheric setting. As the gentle light glows and music fills the space, a talented local trio performs timeless works, offering a moment of elegance, reflection, and cultural immersion. This exclusive experience blends Provence’s rich heritage with the beauty of live classical music for an unforgettable evening.

Arrive in Viviers today, a walled town with Middle Age flair that’s home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals, with parts dating back to the 12th century. In its charming centre, pastel-coloured buildings gently faded by the sun line narrow cobblestone streets, dotted with tiny shops and leafy squares. The town is part of the Provence region of southern France and is known for its natural beauty, relaxed ambience and sunny Mediterranean climate. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers
Your included tour of the town follows a unique heritage discovery trail that touches on many of its iconic monuments. Admire its architectural treasures, including the Maison des Chevaliers, a lavishly decorated Roman house with an extravagant Renaissance façade. 

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Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)
Embark on a transformative journey as you delve into the mesmerising depths of the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum, an awe-inspiring testament to the indomitable spirit of human creativity. Let the luminosity of knowledge guide your steps as you traverse the cavernous expanse with a local guide who breathes life into the ancient canvases that adorn the largest decorated cave replica in the world.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône and is dominated by a 16th-century castle that overlooks the village. Within, there are several iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers and a lush botanic garden. Part of the Rhône Valley, the village is surrounded by vineyards producing some of the world’s finest reds. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon
Join your local guides to walk through Tournon as they unveil fascinating local history and offer insight into the traditions of viticulture. Admire its Roman ruins and Renaissance monuments, then marvel at the world’s oldest suspension bridge with cables. Afterwards, there are many local stores and coffee shops to visit during your time at leisure.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards
Embark on an active hike through the beautiful vineyards that surround Tournon, known for their fine syrah, marsanne and roussanne. A local guide will lead you through vineyards close to where your Emerald Star-Ship has docked, taking in the spectacular views of the Rhone River. On your way back, you may stop at a local chocolate maker for a tasting and shopping of renowned French chocolate.

Relax as you cruise along the Sâone River until you reach the lovely town of Mâcon. This could be a good time to explore what your Emerald Star-Ship has to offer, like the Sun Deck, putting green and indoor swimming pool with retractable rooftop. Founded by the Celts and developed by the Romans, Mâcon is at the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The extensive planting of Gamay grapes makes Beaujolais one of just a few regions on the planet to focus on a single grape variety. It’s also worth noting that red wine accounts for 99% of its total wine production.

Included Excursion
Beaujolais wine tasting
Experience the flavours of the renowned Beaujolais region with a guided wine tasting. Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, Beaujolais is famous for its vibrant, fruit-forward wines, particularly the Beaujolais Nouveau. Visit a local vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a selection of wines that capture the essence of this picturesque region. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this tasting offers a fascinating introduction to the world of Beaujolais wines.

France’s third-largest city, Lyon, is a former Roman capital and steeped in history. Set on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, it's considered the gastronomic heartbeat of the country thanks to its rich culinary heritage, abundant fresh produce and famous local chefs. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, bustling food markets and more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, you'll be able to experience an array of cultural and culinary delights.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon  Enjoy a guided coach tour of Lyon, starting at Fourvières Hill to view the ancient Roman Theatre. Pass by the Romanesque and Byzantine Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an impressive building that strayed away from the popular Gothic models of the same period. Join your guide on a walk through the city’s hidden passageways (called traboules) and admire the Renaissance-era houses. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Lyon  For guests who choose an active excursion over the standard city tour, meet your local guides for an e-bike discovery. Ride to the green lungs of the city, the famous Parc de la Tête d'Or, which was inaugurated in 1857, the same year as Central Park in New York. The largest urban park in France, it contains an impressive collection of more than 15,000 species of plants. The tour will take in the Tête d'Or park, zoo and greenhouses, former vet school and courthouse, and the Confluence district if requested. Take note that guests must be in good shape and confident cyclists. 

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Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
Located on a small hill overlooking the Ain River valley north of Lyon, the medieval walled town of Perouges is known for its wine and weaving. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, it’s filled with cobblestone streets and fascinating buildings. Starting from the upper gate, you’ll see the 15th-century fortified church, the former home of the princes of Savoy, the main street ‘Rue des Rondes’, a 33-metre-deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice, with its round tower.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

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Lyon by Night (extra expense)
Experience Lyon in a whole new light as the city comes alive after dusk. Stroll through illuminated streets, where centuries of history blend with modern vibrancy. From the glowing facades of Old Lyon to the shimmering reflections on the Saône, every corner tells a story. Marvel at the breathtaking view from Fourvière Hill, where the cityscape sparkles beneath the starry sky. Discover the charm of the World Heritage-listed Presqu'île, the city’s central district, filled with beautifully lit squares and fountains. Let the enchanting atmosphere of Lyon by night leave you spellbound.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and your luxury Star-Ship. From here, you’ll be transferred by train to Paris to join your 8 Day Sensations of the Seine & Normandy river cruise, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you for your continued journey.

This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

Wake up in Vernon, a well-preserved medieval town that hugs the southern bank of the river. Most travellers see Vernon as simply the gateway to Giverny, home of the famed Impressionist painter Monet for more than 40 years. But it has many charms of its own, including several antique and vintage stores, beautiful architecture and a striking Gothic church. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.

Included Excursion
In the footsteps of Claude Monet
Take a tour of Giverny Gardens, Monet’s home until his death in 1926. Walk through the rooms where he lived and worked, and the restored, elaborate gardens, which inspired some of his most iconic pieces, including the beloved Water Lilies series. You’ll get a sense of the extraordinary play of colour and light on nature and how this translated to Monet’s distinctive Impressionist art. Explore these tranquil spaces at your own pace and absorb the atmosphere that sparked his creativity. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Giverny
Active guests who wish to visit Giverny can hop on an e-bike for a self-guided bicycle ride from where the ship has docked in Vernon, approximately 5km (3 miles) each way. The flat, easy cycle path has picturesque views of the river and the surrounding countryside. Once in Giverny, join your fellow travellers to visit Monet’s house and garden. The beautifully restored house reflects the artist’s personal taste and creativity. Admire the famous Water Garden with its Japanese bridge and the water lily ponds that inspired some of Monet’s most celebrated paintings.

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Paint Like Monet (extra expense)

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Rouen by Night (extra expense)

Welcome to Rouen, a beautiful city set along the banks of the Seine and steeped in history and heritage, from Vikings and saints to renowned artists. It is forever linked with French national icon Joan of Arc – it was here, in 1431, that the young heroine was tried for heresy and burnt at the stake. Rouen is also famed for its Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the tallest in France, whose stunning façade was immortalised multiple times in paintings by Monet. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rouen
Join a guided walk through Rouen’s medieval centre. Learn how this former Roman settlement emerged as a major stronghold of Viking invaders during the ninth century. Hear fascinating tales about Rollo, the Viking chieftain proclaimed the first Duke of Normandy, and how his legacy helped shape not only this region but the course of European history. Visit iconic sites like the bustling Old Marketplace, the majestic Cathedral district and the charming Saint Maclou Quarter.

EmeraldPLUS
World War II lecture on board
Discover the complexity and colour of Normandy’s history with a captivating on board lecture about World War II. The region played a key role in the conflict as the site of the D-Day Landings, which turned the tide in 1944. Learn about the pivotal moments and key players who undertook these daring actions. The lecture sets the stage for your visit to the D-Day beaches the following day.

EmeraldACTIVE
Active walk in Rouen
Active travellers can lace up their boots for a more active exploration through Rouen. Discover the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’, walking along its historic streets and picturesque cobbled laneways. Your expert guide will share fascinating tales of the city and its history.

Your ship, Emerald Lumi, will cruise right into the centre of Honfleur, docking in the heart of this charming port city that sits on the southern coast of the English Channel. The harbour is lined with colourful half-timbered houses, and its rugged charm captures the essence of traditional Normandy. It’s also a popular starting point for tours of the nearby D-Day Landings beaches, which turned the tide of World War II. You will remain docked in Honfleur overnight, allowing you to explore the town after dark at your leisure.

Included Excursion
Historic Normandy: Allied Landing Sites
Join a remarkable full-day experience and war-themed tour, focused on a highly significant time in World War II. The pivotal D-Day Landings in 1944 opened a crucial Western Front and accelerated the defeat of Nazi Germany. Normandy’s role in this extraordinary military operation makes it one of the most important regions in World War II history. Experience first-hand the Normandy beaches where the Allied vessels landed, as well as the memorials and museum, which honour the bravery of those involved and their ultimate sacrifice.

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Calvados Immersive experience (extra expense)

Enjoy a more leisurely day discovering Honfleur. The harbour town is a popular day trip destination for Parisians, who love exploring its medieval laneways, historic buildings, unique churches and interesting museums. Stroll around the bustling quay, enjoying the delightful views of colourful fishing boats, scenes that inspired many Impressionist artists. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Honfleur with oyster tasting
Your walking tour presents a fascinating snapshot of Honfleur’s unique character and Normandy’s seaside charm. Explore the town’s quaint streets and admire the striking St. Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France, rebuilt entirely of wood from the nearby forest. Honfleur is also renowned for its premium fresh seafood and produces some of the best oysters in France. Your tour includes a fresh oyster tasting, savouring authentic local flavours. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Honfleur
Active guests wanting to explore at a faster pace can join a guided e-bike tour of Honfleur. Cycle past the city’s main sights, along the waterfront and into charming cobblestone squares. Your guide will share stories about the city, its history and the daily life of local people. 

Set in a picturesque bend of the Seine, Les Andelys is bursting with medieval charm. Admire the Norman homes, Saint Jacques hospital and the hilltop Château Gaillard, a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart. The old town is compact and easy to explore on foot from where your Emerald Star-Ship is docked, with cobbled streets and traditional architecture that will take you back through the centuries. 

EmeraldPLUS
Exclusive local cider farm visit with tasting
Travel to the heart of Normandy’s countryside to visit a traditional cider farm. Here, you’ll learn how the region’s crisp, refreshing cider is crafted from locally-grown apples using age-old methods. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of authentic local products that celebrate the renowned flavours of Normandy. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Château Gaillard
For those seeking a more energetic pace, join a guided hike up to Château Gaillard, the storied remnants of a medieval fortress. It was built by Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century to protect his Norman lands. From the clifftops, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the River Seine and an area of outstanding beauty.

Your Emerald Star-Ship will have been docked in La Roche Guyon overnight, so you can wake up early to explore this fairytale village on the edge of the Seine. It is nestled inside the Vexin National Park, and many of its buildings are carved directly into the cliff face. The imposing silhouette of the Château de La Roche-Guyon looks over the town and has breathtaking 360-degree views over the river and countryside. 

Included Excursion
Visit to Château Guyon & Gardens
It’s just a short walk to Château de La Roche-Guyon, a beautifully preserved estate steeped in centuries of history. Built as a fortified castle in the 14th century, the Château majestically stands as a testament to French architectural heritage. Wander along tranquil pathways through the meticulously maintained gardens and discover elegant period rooms adorned with antique furnishings and artwork, offering a rare glimpse of the refined lifestyle of past centuries.

EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak on the Seine
Get a different perspective on the beauty of La Roche Guyon with an active kayaking tour along the Seine. The calm waters are ideal for paddling, and you’ll pass close to the town, beside lush greenery and beneath the towering limestone cliffs that lead up to the chateau.

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh (extra expense)
Art enthusiasts can follow in the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh, exploring the landscapes that inspired his iconic artworks and final masterpiece. Join a walking tour through the charming village of Auvers-sur-Oise, visiting the last residence and resting place of the Dutch artist.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and your luxury Emerald Star-Ship. You’ll leave with memories of Normandy’s timeless landscapes, authentic flavours and compelling historical sites. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change