8 Days Burgundy & Provence | S.S Catherine

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gauguin on this exquisite journey through southern France.

Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying the region’s incomparable wine and cuisine and discovering its many treasures. Stroll the very streets of Arles made famous by Van Gogh. Visit Avignon’s majestic Palace of the Popes. Experience “Village Day” in enchanting Viviers. And for those who wish for a more active exploration of the area, you can hike the vineyards of the Rhône and pedal through Lyon, a city designed with bike riders in mind. Explore unforgettable “Burgundy & Provence” where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills.

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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.

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

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  MÂCON (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)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport for your flight home. Alternatively, you can continue your adventure with an extension to Paris.

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OPTIONAL EXTENSION  PARIS POST-CRUISE EXTENSION  (ADD-ON)

No visit to France would be complete without seeing the city that is widely regarded as the most beautiful in the world—Paris. Nothing compares to the charm of its neighborhoods, the grandeur of its awe-inspiring architecture and monuments, or the cosmopolitan elegance of its boulevards. Delve into the delights this magnificent city has to offer, from the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées to the quaint neighborhood cafés beloved by locals.

• 2 nights at the Hôtel du Louvre (or similar)
• Breakfast daily and all service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Opera Garnier Discovery Walk
• English-speaking expert
• All transfers

OPTIONAL EXTENSION ATHENS POST-CRUISE EXTENSION (ADD-ON)

A trip to delight any Classicist, culinary enthusiast, or simply the culturally curious, this 4-day stay in Athens offers a brief and wonderful taste of Greece’s famous capital city. Your luxury hotel in the heart of town will be the perfect jumping point for the exciting experiences we have planned for you, including dinner with a local in their home, a trip up to the Parthenon, and a foodie tour of popular Greek treats.

• 3 nights at the Divani Caravel (or similar)
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner
• All service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Home-Hosted Dinner
• Highlights of Athens City Tour
• Taste of Greece Walking Tour
• All transfers and transportation
• Flights to Athens
• Services of a local guide

OPTIONAL EXTENSION  ATHENS & SANTORINI POST-CRUISE EXTENSION  (ADD-ON)

From ancient wonders to sun-kissed island vistas, Greece makes for one truly extraordinary travel destination. Split your stay between Athens and Santorini, each rich in history, culture, excellent cuisine, and awe-inspiring sights. Sample the local fare, including some island-grown wines, and sail around Santorini’s caldera.

• 2 nights at the Divani Caravel in Athens (or similar)
• 3 nights at the Orama Hotel or Majestic Hotel in Santorini (or similar)
• Breakfast daily, 1 dinner, and 1 meal during the Santorini cruise
• All service charges, taxes, and porterage
• Highlights of Athens City Tour
• Santorini Walking Tour with Local Dinner
• Caldera Cruise
• Santorini Villages with Wine Tasting
• All transfers and transportation
• Flights to Athens and to Santorini
• Services of a local guide