AmaWaterways – Essence of Burgundy and Provence River Cruise

Check into your Nice Hotel for the beginning of your Essence of Burgundy & Provence pre-cruise land package.

Tour the scenic capital of the French Riviera, where tourism has been alive for three centuries. Founded by the Greeks and named after the Greek goddess of victory, Nice was once the premier spot for English aristocrats to spend their winter holidays—and is now a world-renowned, top­-of-­the-­range holiday destination. Gaze at the azure waters of the Mediterranean and take in such sites as the distinctive Saint Reparate cathedral, the opera house and the Prefecture Palace.

Head to the hilltop town of Eze where you’ll enjoy a scenic walking tour along its charming cobblestone streets, as well as free time to sample the local fare for lunch. Later, explore intimate Monaco­-Ville, known locally as “The Rock,” a sleepy yet picturesque medieval village with phenomenal views of the sea. Then take in the luxury and beauty of Monte Carlo, famous for its opulent casino and as the host of the annual Formula One Monaco Grand Prix.

Check out of your Nice hotel and head to Aix­-en-Provence, a charming commune just north of Marseille. Enjoy a tour of the city with its sidewalk cafes, many fountains and Old Town before embarking your ship in Arles for the beginning of your river cruise.

Arles is considered one of the most beautiful cities in France. Let your experienced guide lead you to the top sights, including the Romanesque cathedral and Roman amphitheater. Or, if you wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. Alternatively, you may take a guided bike tour through town. Later in the day, enjoy a walking tour in Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” that includes the Papal Palace and the well­preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more flavorful experience, visit three venues around Avignon to taste regional specialties including macarons, cheese and wine, and tapenades.

Viviers is a charming medieval city with picturesque 16th and 18th century monuments which you can explore on a guided tour. For a more active adventure, pedal through this bicycle­friendly city or join an active walk and enjoy a memorable view of Viviers. Alternately, you can go to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion.

Vienne boasts a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. There you can enjoy a guided walking tour around the city. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided bike tour along a portion of the Via-Rhôna bike route or a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet. Later in the day, discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th­century basilica Notre­Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” Or get active on a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. If you’re a self-­described foodie, our Vieux Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights.

Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey. Built between the 4th and 12th centuries, Cluny Abbey was formerly the world’s largest church and stands as a captivating example of early Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, explore the architecture and history behind the Royal Monastery of Brou, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 16th century. Later in the day, enjoy a panoramic view from the Sun Deck as you sail to Tournus, or opt for a bike ride from Mâcon to Tournus. Or, enjoy a delicious tasting of the region’s famous white Mâconnais wines.

Today you have a choice of a number of excursions as you explore Tournus. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall. Later in the day, enjoy scenic cruising as you sail toward Chalon-Sur-­Saône, or opt for a bike tour if you’re feeling adventurous.

Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-­Sur­Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. You’ll also stop at a local market where you can see and taste some of the local fare. Alternatively, choose an excursion in Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic­-tiled roof of the Hôtel-­Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. Later in the day, treat your palate to a tasting of Chalonnaise wines.

Bid farewell to Dijon and prepare for your return flight home (flights not included).