Grand France European River Cruise with Uniworld – Save $7,680 per couple*

DAY 1 – ARLES (EMBARK)

Arrive at the Marseille Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship docked in Arles.

DAY 2 – ARLES

Explore a sun-drenched Provençal town today with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. It was here that the Romans built their first bridge across the Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between Italy and Spain.

DAY 3 – AVIGNON

The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. You’ll see the Palace of the Popes and much more today, or have the chance to visit a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.

DAY 4 – VIVIERS

An enchanting village where time seems to have stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied past that goes back more than 1,600 years—and a splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time, Viviers was divided along religious lines—the clergy lived in the upper part of the town, the laity in the lower part. Your exploration of the town will take you through both parts, as you begin at the crest and make your way to the riverbank.

DAY 5 – TAIN-L’HERMITAGE (TOURNON)

If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring events took place here: A castle was raised on the hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and new fortifications were added over the centuries, including two “new” towers built to defend against Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You’ll see the handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants and garrison officers when you walk through the Rue de Doux area, and you’ll pass the 14th-century church and the oldest secondary school in France.

DAY 6 – LYON

Ancient Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts, from Roman roots to stunning modern architecture and plenty of Renaissance flair in between. There’s much to explore here, from the city’s bike paths to the silk weavers’ secret passageways. While you’re in town, you might like to have lunch on your own at one of the many traditional bouchons that proliferate in the epicenter of French gastronomy.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

DAY 7 – MACON (BEAUNE)

The pace of life is decidedly more relaxed in Burgundy, where endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the vine. The capital of the region’s wine trade, Beaune is renowned for its history, beauty, and highly prized wine, as well as its medieval-era hospital—the Hospices de Beaune.

DAY 8 – LYON

Disembark the striking S.S. Catherine and transfer to Paris via high-speed TGV train. Your next ship, the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre, waits to carry you along the Seine on the next leg of your adventure.

DAY 9 – LA ROCHE-GUYON, VERNON, GIVERNY

Today is a celebration of northern France’s natural beauty, with an excursion to a splendid château and gardens situated in an equally grand setting, plus a chance to immerse yourself in the very landscapes that inspired Impressionist master Claude Monet. In the morning, choose between a scenic hike or a visit to the hilltop Château de La Roche-Guyon, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers sweeping views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens of Monet. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the French countryside on your way there with an invigorating bike ride, or opt to arrive by coach instead.

Note: Giverny will be closed during the March and November cruise departure dates.

This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Sailing by river means enjoying all the convenience of a traditional cruise, along with all the benefits of land travel. Stopping in multiple destinations on every trip, you’ll visit bustling cities and hidden gem villages, unpacking only once. River Cruising is the best way to cruise, and the best and most luxurious river cruises are with Uniworld.

ONE-OF-A-KIND BOUTIQUE SHIPS

One of the highlights of your river cruise will be the ship you sail on. Each of the Uniworld one-of-a-kind ships is like a floating boutique hotel; designed to immerse you in the destination and fully equipped with luxurious amenities, beautiful public spaces and multiple dining venues throughout.

ALL-INCLUSIVE AMENETIES

There’s all-inclusive, and then there’s the unmatched level of inclusive luxurious amenities that only Uniworld provide. To ensure truly carefree and effortless travel, they gone ahead and included it all–so the only thing you have to do is sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation. Everything you could ever need is included with Uniworld. From your meals to premium drinks, a host of onboard wellness opportunities, plus your daily shore excursions, they have even included the onboard gratuities.

INTIMATE & RELAXING EXPERIENCE

Compared to ocean cruising, a river cruise is smaller and therefore offers guests a far more intimate experience. With an average of just 120 guests onboard, you can get to know your fellow travellers and also receive better access to the incredible staff onboard.

UNMATCHED CONVENIENCE

By it’s nature, cruising along rivers allows you to travel directly through the heart of countries, giving you access to some of the worlds greatest cities right outside your window. You’ll travel to multiple destinations with ease, only unpacking once.

IMMERSIVE TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

Uniworld have selected culturally immersive experiences on every journey. These range from early access to the world’s greatest landmarks such as the Taj Mahal, private after-hours visits to St. Mark’s Basilica or receiving a breathtaking water blessing from a Cambodian Monk.

CONNECT & STAY CONNECTED

Unencumbered by large crowds, you’ll effortlessly meet people who share your passion for travel and exploration, while staying connected with loved one’s back home with complimentary shipwide Wi-Fi.

S.S. JOIE DE VIVRE

S.S. Joie de Vivre brings the “joy of living” to the rivers of France. Step aboard your floating pied-à-terre in France, featuring handcrafted furniture and fine antiques, original artwork, and signature accents inspired by 20th-century Parisian design from the Golden Twenties to the free-spirited Sixties, all blending seamlessly with modern conveniences.