Begin with the VIP Departure Service to London Heathrow or Gatwick Airport for your scheduled British Airways or other leading airline flight to Lyon. Alternatively, choose the Eurostar rail option, detailed below. Meet your representative on arrival and transfer to Chalon to embark the River Royale and overnight.

From Châlon in the heart of Burgundy, our tour this morning visits Beaune to explore the famous Hospices de Beaune. Founded in the 15th century, the Hospices were given some vineyards so they could make wine to auction off to support charities. This custom still continues today. Marvel at the multicoloured roofs of this architectural jewel that has become a symbol of Burgundy. Captains welcome dinner this evening.

The city was founded by Julius Caesar about 2,000 years ago, and as a result, it has a wealth of Roman remains, as well as many impressive museums, Renaissance architecture galore, and, of course, world-renowned cuisine. We start today’s tour with a drive to a good vantage point to see the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Lyon’s hallmark church. We will stop on Croix-Rousse Hill for a dramatic view of the Beaujolais Mountains and Saône River. From the coach, we view Terreaux Square, the Fine Art Museum, and the Opera House. During the afternoon, you have free time to explore further.

Nestled among the famous vineyards, the twin cities of Touron and Tain L’Hermitage provide the perfect setting for those who are true connoisseurs of chocolate and wine. Celebrate this region by indulging in some of the world famous chocolate and by sampling some of the excellent Côte du Rhône wines.

Strategically overlooking the gorge of Donzere, the village of Viviers has retained its old world charm. Founded in the 5th century, Viviers was developed around its Romanesque cathedral, whose façade, porch, and solitary tower still survive today. Our guided tour in Viviers will start in Old Town, which reveals an interesting combination of Roman, Christian and Medieval influences. We also stop by Rue Chèvrerie, Porte Riquot, Maison des Chevaliers, Rue du Chateau, and Maison Élémentaire du Commerçant.

The fortified city of Avignon, often referred to as the “City of Popes,” was the centre of the Catholic Church in the 14th century, and the spectacular architecture of the Palais des Papes dominates the city landscape. Your walking tour of Avignon starts at Clocktower Square, with its cafes, patisseries and chocolate shops, and namesake clock tower dating back to the 1300s, now part of the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall). Next it’s on to the Palace Square for an inside visit of the Papal Palace. After visiting the palace museum, we will make our way up to Rocher des Doms, where Avignon was first settled. Captain’s Farewell Dinner this evening.

Bask in the warmth of this friendly Mediterranean town known for its unique Provençal light. Our tour starts with a walk in the town, then on to the Roman Amphitheatre. Our next stop will be Town Hall Square, including City Hall and the St. Trophime Cathedral, a Romanesque cathedral built in the 12th century. After this, we visit the inside courtyard of Espace Van Gogh, and pass by Forum Square and Constantine’s Roman Baths as we make our way back to the ship.

Disembark the ship and transfer to Marseilles Airport for your flight home. Arrive at London Heathrow or Gatwick where staff will meet you and transport you to your door. Alternatively choose the Eurostar train option which includes VIP Home Departure Service and transfers.