ABOARD THE MS VAN GOGH ~ Lyon, Provence & The Camargue, with 3 nights in Paris
Active pace with longer touring days. Expect intermittent walking at a moderate pace for 2–3 hours over a variety of terrain, including cobblestones, hills and uneven pavements. Must be able to negotiate stairs of varying heights, sometimes without handrails. Can tolerate periods of standing during guided tours and be able to climb in/out of various modes of transportation. Some days may include 5–7 km of walking over the course of the day.
Depart on an overnight connecting flight to Lyon, France.
Upon arrival in Lyon, we are welcomed and transferred to our ship, the elegant MS Van Gogh, our home for the next six nights. This evening, we settle in, meet our crew at a welcome cocktail, and enjoy dinner and entertainment on board.
This morning we explore the historic city of Lyon, including Fourvière Hill, Vieux Lyon, and a tasting at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. Tonight, we indulge in an extraordinary gastronomic experience at Paul Bocuse’s Abbaye de Collonges before sailing onward.
In Tain l’Hermitage, we discover the delicious world of chocolate at La Cité du Chocolat Valrhona, complete with tastings. This afternoon we cruise toward Avignon, arriving in the evening for dinner and on board entertainment.
Today we visit the magnificent Palais des Papes, one of Europe’s most important Gothic landmarks and a symbol of medieval power. Later, we sail to Arles, where you’ll enjoy free time before another delightful evening on board.
This morning we journey into the heart of the Camargue, known for its white horses, black bulls, and timeless Provençal traditions. Relax this afternoon as we cruise through scenic countryside toward Viviers.
We explore charming Viviers, a town rich in history and architectural treasures. This afternoon’s highlight is a panoramic tour of the breathtaking Gorges de l’Ardèche, including the spectacular Pont d’Arc, a natural arch almost 100-feet high carved out by the Ardèche River, before our festive gala evening on board.
After disembarking in Lyon, we enjoy a hands-on French cooking class and lunch before boarding a scenic train journey to Paris. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel and settle in for three wonderful nights in the City of Light.
Our guided tour introduces us to iconic landmarks including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Champs-Élysées, and Place de la Concorde. This afternoon we explore Montmartre and visit the beautiful Sacré-Cœur, with the evening at leisure.
Today is yours to enjoy Paris at your own pace—perhaps shopping, visiting a museum, or relaxing at a café. This evening, we gather for a special Farewell Dinner to celebrate our unforgettable journey together.
After breakfast, we transfer to the airport for our flight home.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (120 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
