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.

Please book your flight to arrive into Nice prior to 12:00 PM.

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
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 local experience, you get to bring home your 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 numerous 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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Provençal cosmetic workshop (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 World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as other glorious medieval architecture and a world-renowned arts festival. The city also played a major role in the French Revolution, resulting in several violent conflicts.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon with market visit
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. You’ll also visit the famed Les Halles covered market, where over 40 vendors gather to showcase their fresh spring produce.

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 the 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 new perspective. You’ll even get to paddle beneath the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval landmark.

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 with 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.

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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, perfect 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

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 with wine tasting
Join your local guides to walk through Tournon as they unveil fascinating local history and give an 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, enjoy a curated wine tasting at the castle.

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. There will also be time to stop at a local chocolate maker for a tasting and shopping of renowned French chocolate.

A quintessentially French town, Vienne began life as a Roman colony in Gaul under the rule of Julius Caesar around 47 BC. Its strategic position on the Rhône River made it an important port for trade and communication over the centuries, and many monuments from the Roman and Medieval periods can still be seen.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Vienne
Take a walking tour in Vienne to uncover the rich history of this charming riverside town. You’ll see its beautiful Jardin de Ville (City Garden) and the Cybèle Garden, an open-air museum of Gallo-Roman ruins. Admire the beautiful cathedral, which was built from the 11th to 16th-centuries. Explore one of the best-preserved Roman theatres in Europe, built around 40 to 50 AD into the steep slopes of Pipet Hill and originally able to accommodate over 10,000 spectators.

EmeraldPLUS
Cheese and olive tasting on board
This afternoon, join your fellow guests and Cruise Directors in the Horizon Lounge to sample some local delicacies. Listen to a short presentation about the region and its produce, before a tasting of specialty cheese and Provence olives.

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 enjoy an array of cultural and culinary delights.

Included Excursion
Guided Tour of Lyon
Explore the enchanting city of Lyon, renowned for its blend of history, architecture, and rich culinary heritage. This guided walking tour will take you through the historic Old Town (Vieux Lyon), the elegant Presqu'île, and the vibrant Part-Dieu district, showcasing landmarks like the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière and the Traboules—hidden passageways that tell tales of the city’s past. As a special treat, enjoy small tastings along the way, sampling some of Lyon’s most famous delicacies.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Lyon
For guests who wish to choose an active excursion over the standard city tour, meet your local guides for an e-bike tour. 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)
Journey by coach to the medieval town of Pérouges, located on a small hill overlooking the Ain River valley north of Lyon. Known for its wine and weaving and 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 join a guided walking tour to see the 15th-century fortified church, the former home of the princes of Savoy and the main street ‘Rue des Rondes’, a 33-metre-deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice, with its round tower. Enjoy time at leisure before your journey back to Lyon.
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.

After breakfast, you will disembark the Emerald Liberte Star-Ship and be transferred by coach to Basel, where your river cruising journey will continue.

Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach presents a charming blend of German and French cultures. The Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s church, resting upon a volcanic hill, is visible from a great distance and is a notable landmark.

Included Excursion
Freiburg visit with Botanical Garden
Discover the enchanting city of Freiburg, nestled amidst the Black Forest. Explore its historic centre, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and a vibrant market square. Wander through the picturesque botanical garden, showcasing a diverse array of flora at their most spectacular in spring.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour in Breisach
For a more active experience, choose an exhilarating e-bike tour around Breisach. Your route takes in the picturesque scenery between the Kaiserstuhl mountains and the river through the woods. Once you arrive in Burkheim, take a break to enjoy some traditional Black Forest cake. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this captivating region on two wheels.

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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)
Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, it's easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm's Fairy Tales here, where half-timbered façades are adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

Today, you’ll arrive in Strasbourg, a city shaped by both French and German influences and renowned for its fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Once a key medieval trading centre and later part of the German Empire, Strasbourg’s World Heritage-listed Neustadt district showcases grand 19th-century boulevards and impressive imperial buildings. Its historic core, centred around the magnificent cathedral, reflects centuries of cultural exchange and shifting borders. Strasbourg also lies at the heart of the celebrated Alsace wine region, where charming villages and vineyard-covered hillsides are never far away.

Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Strasbourg
The Neustadt district is yours to discover during your included tour, as is the Maison Kammerzell, a prime example of German Renaissance architecture. Paying homage to the region’s artistic past, Petite France is an exceptional historic quarter that looks as though it has been pulled directly from an artist’s easel. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Active walk to Orangerie Park
Set out on an active walk to Orangerie Park, a beautiful 17th-century estate in the centre of Strasbourg. Covering 64 acres, it is the city’s largest and oldest park, and in spring is a riot of colour with magnolia and Japanese cherry blossoms. Look out for the storks, which famously roam free around the grounds. 

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Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)
Escape to the heart of Germany’s Black Forest for a rejuvenating day at the world-renowned Baden-Baden spa. Famous for its healing thermal waters and elegant ambience, Baden-Baden offers the perfect blend of wellness, history and indulgence.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Evening Concert at Bruchsal Palace
Bruchsal Palace, also known as the Damiansburg, is a breathtaking Baroque Palace noted for its fine Rococo decoration. Made up of over 50 buildings, this impressive complex includes a three-winged residential building with an attached chapel, four pavilions separated by a road, some smaller utility buildings, and a pretty garden. This evening, you’re invited to attend a classical concert in one of the most beautiful rooms. This exclusive experience blends culture, atmosphere, and refinement, an enchanting night in one of Germany’s most stunning historical settings.

A lively university town, Mannheim is best known for its unique grid system and is often called the City of Squares (Quadratestadt). Its most famous landmark is the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg
Today, you’ll travel to nearby Heidelberg, the charming UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, where carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards in Bad-Dürkheim
Visit the quaint wellness town of Bad-Dürkheim for an active hike through the beautiful vineyards. Afterwards, enjoy an orientation walk through the town to visit the Fitz-Ritter Winery, which has been in the same family for nine generations. Here, enjoy a wine tasting to savour the local flavours. 

This evening, you’ll cruise onwards to Rudesheim.

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Rüdesheim walk with specialty coffee
On your visit to the charming town of Rüdesheim, take a short ride on the mini train to taste the specialty coffee in the region. A swig of Rüdesheimer coffee is a treat for wine lovers and coffee fans alike.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Look out for the iconic Lorelei Rock, where a beautiful siren is said to have lured sailors to their death with her song.

Once a Roman stronghold, Koblenz was established around 8 BC for its strategic value. Today, it’s a modern park- and flower-filled city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. It is particularly charming in spring, with pleasant weather and the surrounding vineyards bursting into life.

Included Excursion
Orientation walk of Koblenz
Join your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing examples of architecture that survived the war years, including the Church of Our Lady. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers converge at the German Corner. 

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A Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit
Resting on a spectacular hill 91m (299 ft) above the Moselle Valley, you’ll find the medieval town of Cochem. Embark on a walking tour including a guided visit to the magnificent Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle, boasting impressive views of the Moselle Valley. The original 12th-century Romanesque style was replaced by King Louis XIV, who ordered his troops to destroy it in 1689. Rebuilt in 1868, he chose the neo-Gothic architecture that we know today as his family's summer residence.
Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 5 hours 

Continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, this is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom.

Later, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, Düsseldorf is one of the country’s most intoxicating cities. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town
Join your local guide and explore the city of Cologne, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. You’ll conclude at the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, perhaps shop for trinkets or explore further in the city, before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Düsseldorf
Discover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During your tour, you can explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Active walk to Cologne’s Gardens
Embark on an active guided walk through Cologne’s beautiful Flora and Botanical Garden. Opened in 1863, this houses more than 12,000 species from across the planet, featured in themed gardens, palm houses and lush green fields. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Active walk to Düsseldorf Gardens
As the city awakens from winter, its parks and riverside promenades burst into bloom. Take an active visit to one of Düsseldorf’s beautiful gardens, such as the Nordpark or the Botanical Garden, to admire the vibrant tulips and cherry blossoms, along peaceful walking paths. Combined with a stroll along the Rhine, or a stop at the Old Town’s cafés, this spring experience captures the city’s lively yet tranquil charm at its most picturesque time of year. 

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German beer experience (extra expense)
Discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne on this lively and flavourful guided tour through the city's legendary brewhouses.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Welcome to the Netherlands, a postcard-worthy destination of World Heritage-listed canals, Dutch countryside, and esteemed art galleries.  

Included Excursion
Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
This morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares (79 acres) of spring-flowering bulbs. Open only from March to May each year, more than seven million bulbs are planted, including 800 varieties of tulips. This area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You’ll also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme.

EmeraldPLUS
Clog painting on board
Back on board your Emerald Star-Ship this afternoon, join a local expert for a clog painting class. Learn about this proud tradition and create your own Dutch masterpiece.

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Hidden Gems tour of AmsterdaM
Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personalised tour through the city’s hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and traditional Dutch snacks at a local brewery.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

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Dutch Delights (extra expense)
See the highlights of this amazing city while tasting some delicious Dutch treats.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

Today, after breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests as you disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of spring-blooming flowers and delightful cobblestone squares with you. 

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.