Flavors of Provence by Luxury River Ship

Day 1: En Route from U.S.

Day 2: Arrive in Lyon, France – Embarkation

(R,D)

Upon arrival to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the river ship.

The Amadeus Provence is a masterpiece of luxury cruising. This floating haven features spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and impeccably designed public spaces. As embarkation begins take time to unpack and become familiar with your accommodations.

This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a welcome reception and dinner—a delightful introduction to the camaraderie and cuisine that will accompany you throughout the journey.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 3: Lyon

(B,L,D)

Following breakfast take the opportunity to become deeply acquainted with this beautiful city during a half-day tour—a sensory and visual journey through history, art and gastronomy. Lyon's architectural gems have been well-preserved, providing an abundance of ancient Roman ruins and early Christian sites to explore.

Descend into the heart of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its well-preserved Renaissance buildings, narrow cobblestone streets and traboules—hidden passageways linking buildings by vaulted corridors and courtyards.

A gentle ascent to Fourvière Hill provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lyon and the convergence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. The Basilica atop the hill is an architectural marvel with stunning views over the city and prime photography opportunities.

Continue to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a Mecca of culinary excellence. Named in honor of the legendary French chef Paul Bocuse, this colorful three-story indoor market is a foodie's haven, offering a treasure trove of premium artisanal products and gourmet delights. Bocuse's influence is evident in the emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and the celebration of Lyon's rich gastronomic traditions. Explore the variety of vendor stalls including cheesemakers, bakers and pastry chefs, gardeners and butchers—spanning more than three acres.

This afternoon embrace leisure time on board while sailing to Avignon. Indulge in a rejuvenating spa treatment (fees apply), take a dip in the pool, recline in the lounge or visit the sundeck to capture the panoramic landscape passing by.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 4: Avignon | Châteauneuf-du-Pape

(B,L,D)

Cruising into Avignon enjoy lunch on board before disembarking for the afternoon's included activity.

Enjoy a guided panoramic city tour through Avignon, known as the “City of Popes” due to the role the city played in the Avignon conspiracy of the 14th century when the pope abandoned Rome and fled to Avignon. The lavish Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes) is a fortress, church and palace all in one and was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century. From 1309 to 1377, seven popes resided in this impressive building, one of the world’s most fascinating examples of Gothic architecture.

Continue by the impressive symbols that influenced the western world including Pont d’Avignon, the Petit Palais art museum and Avignon Cathedral with its ramparts and gardens.

Alternatively, guests can join an excursion (additional fee) to Châteauneuf-du-Pape, an enchanting village in the Côtes du Rhône region, for a vineyard tour and tasting. Meet the esteemed vintners to learn about the winemaking process, the grape varietals used and the artistry that goes into producing these highly distinguished wines.

Return to the ship for dinner or take the opportunity to have dinner on your own at one of Avignon's many restaurants.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 5: Orange | Arles | Les Baux-de-Provence

(B,L,D)

Journey inland to Orange, home to one of Europe’s best-preserved Roman amphitheaters. This imposing monument—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—was originally built as a grand venue for public entertainment and, in later centuries, was repurposed as a defensive stronghold during times of conflict.

Continue to the remarkable Pont du Gard, a three-tiered aqueduct bridge spanning the river Gardon built in the 1st century AD.

Reboard the ship in Arles for lunch.

This afternoon visit the olive oil mill at the foot of the Château des Baux. The owners have combined centuries of experience with passion, rigor, technique and respect for the olive trees. Gain insight into their traditional methods of cultivation while sampling the artisan-crafted oils.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside as you return to the ship in Arles for a freshly prepared dinner on board.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 6: Aix-en-Provence

(B,L,D)

Today offers a full-day excursion to Aix-en-Provence, a city featuring graceful boulevards, lavender fields and welcoming locals.

Join a guide for a panoramic tour. Explore historic Old Town (Vieil Aix) and pass by the famous Cours Mirabeau, a wide and shady avenue lined with cafés frequented by artists and philosophers over the years. Visit Place d’Albertas, a charming square surrounded by noble façades, and admire Fontaine de la Rotonde and the ornate landmark obelisk fountain featuring four dolphins spouting water.

Walk in the footsteps of post-impressionist painter Cézanne as you learn about the city's Roman roots and its golden age in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch, browse the Provençal boutiques and perhaps savor a French café crème under a shade tree.

Return to the ship for dinner and a restful evening.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 7: Grignan

(B,L,D)

Following breakfast disembark for a scenic drive through mountain vistas and lavender fields, arriving at a truffle farm near Grignan where the treasures referred to as “black diamonds” are abundant.

During a tour learn about the canines specially bred to sniff out these black and white delicacies, and watch a demonstration of the seeking and retrieval methods. Conclude the visit with a truffle oil tasting.

Continue to the stately Château de Grignan—a Renaissance castle—for a guided tour.

The afternoon is at leisure on board as the ship cruises towards Valence.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 8: Valence

(B,L,D)

Valence is a serene haven for food lovers—its regional cuisine reflects both mountain and Mediterranean influences. It's especially celebrated for its goat cheeses, most notably picodon—which means spicy little cheese.

Journey into the countryside to tour a goat farm where you’ll meet the animals and sample a selection of fresh cheeses.

This evening while crusing to Lyon, gather together for a special Captain's Gala Dinner to commemorate your time exploring this beautiful region of France.

Overnight: Amadeus Provence

Day 9: Lyon – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.

(B)

After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.