8 Nights Enchanting Rhone: Paris to Tarascon

Type of Vessel

Every Scenic European river cruise begins aboard one of our boutique vessels or custom-built Space-Ships, so named for their spacious guest cabins, dining, and entertaining areas. Each of these Scenic Space-Ships includes numerous dining and sightseeing areas, as well as a lounge and bar area that offers panoramic views. Additionally, guests can soak up the rays at the Sun Deck swimming pool or retreat to the wellness center, which is equipped with a fitness area, beauty salon, and massage rooms. These ships are noteworthy for their luxury suites, which are outfitted with sun lounges, 32-inch high-definition TVs, and complimentary wireless internet access.

Itinerary

Day 1 | Paris, France: Arrive today in Paris and have an evening at leisure.

Day 2 | Chalon-sur-Saone, France: Depart Paris and transfer via coach to Chalon-sur-Sa'ne where you'll be warmly welcomed on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.

Day 3 | Macon, France and Lyon, France: While cruising this afternoon, join a lesson in French cookery in Scenic Culinaire. Travel to the "Golden Stone" region of Beaujolais, and enjoy a tasting of the region's wines. Or, explore charming Cluny, built around the great Benedictine Abbey.

Day 4 | Lyon, France: Awake today in Lyon, the gastronomic heart of France. Walk Lyon's hidden traboules, and visit the Notre Dame Basilica, which offers fabulous views across the city. Alternatively, walk the cobblestone paths of yesteryear in the medieval hilltop town of Parouges, or join a guided bike ride to Lyon's Botanical Gardens and Zoo.

Day 5 | Vienne, France and Tournon, France: Take a walking tour in Vienne including a visit to the Roman amphitheater and uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. Alternatively, join your local guide for a cycling tour. Relax with a beverage on the terrace of the Castle of Tournon. Local guitarists will perform an acoustic set for your exclusive benefit. It's a great soundtrack to an awe-inspiring backdrop.

Day 6 | Vivers, France: This morning, enjoy a walking tour of the ancient town of Viviers, nestled between hill and river, and visit its imposing cathedral. Scenic Culinaire will be hosting a lesson in French cuisine for those wishing to improve their skills while cruising this afternoon. Or simply soak in the panoramic vistas from the Sun Deck as you cruise to Avignon.

Day 7 | Avignon, France: This afternoon enjoy free time to explore on your own. Shop with a Chef at the local market before cooking up a storm in Scenic Culinaire, or explore Avignon's architectural wonder, the Popes' Palace. Alternatively, take an excursion to Uz's and Pont du Gard, the impressive ancient Roman aqueduct. After the doors close to the general public at Avignon's prestigious Popes' Palace, you'll be invited in for an exclusive concert where virtuoso musicians perform Mozart, Bach and Vivaldi within this elegant 14th century palace.

Day 8 | Tarascon, France: Relax on board as we cruise into the Provenal town of Tarascon. Visit Les Baux, and drop into a local olive farm, or explore Saint-Ramy and the Saint-Paul de Mausole Monastery. Alternatively, visit the wondrous Arles Arena on your tour of this once thriving Roman city.

Day 9 | Tarascon, France: Transfer to Nice or Marseille airport after breakfast.

Guest Services

Amenities include personalized butler service.

Food and Dining

River Cafe provides a wonderful range of delicious light meals, snacks and refreshments that guests can enjoy any time. Open early in the morning for early risers looking for breakfast, until late afternoon, the River Cafe has something for every craving.
Crystal Dining offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Relax in the comfortable open seating for two to eight guests and enjoy a wide range of cuisines from local specialties to a seafood gala evening. A la carte menus are available daily.
Panorama Lounge and Bar is where guests can relax, catch up with new friends and enjoy the evening's entertainment. The bar's always open and there's tea and coffee making facilities; along with a selection of board and card games plus a comprehensive library.
Sun Deck is where guests can happily spend hours lost in a book, enjoy the Teppanyaki BBQ or simply soak up the views. With plenty of comfortable seating and a walking track for those active guests, there is an option for everyone.

Onboard Activities/Events

On board you'll have full access to a wellness area, complete with massage services and a hair salon, a gym, special on board entertainment, Wi-Fi internet, e-bikes, cooking classes, tastings, and culinary demonstrations.

Shore Excursions

There are a vast range of activities and sightseeing experiences for you to choose from, so you only see what you want to see, and do what you want to do, at a tempo that suits you. From history to culture, food to nature, there's something for everyone.

Staterooms or Cabins

Downy pillows, Egyptian cotton sheets, fleecy bathrobes and complimentary shoeshine enhance the ambiance.
The balcony suites are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe's rivers and offer modern and elegant furnishings; HDTV, individual climate control and pillow menu. There's also a safe for your valuables, a nightly turndown service and of course a complimentary mini-bar and Wi-Fi.
Balcony Suites are located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks and feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge system and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.
Royal Suites are the largest featured on the ships and allow you to enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a separate lounge area and a luxurious bathroom offering a separate bath and shower.