Discover the Rhone & Douro rivers: 15 days Nice to Porto

Welcome to France and the beginning of your cruise. You’ll be met by a member of our team at the airport and transferred to Arles, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship. Your ship will remain docked in Arles overnight, giving you time to explore the city at your leisure.

Please book your flight to arrive into Nice prior to 12:00 PM.

The past is yours to uncover in Arles. The city was once an important Phoenician trading port, before being captured by the Romans, who peppered the region with iconic monuments. It has been a favourite retreat for legendary artists like Van Gogh and Gauguin, drawn to its unique light and arresting beauty. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dine with your fellow guests. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit
Discover Arles’ remarkable Roman heritage on a guided walking tour through one of France’s best-preserved ancient cities. Stroll past iconic landmarks such as the Roman Amphitheatre, ancient forum, and Roman baths, while learning how Arles once thrived as a major outpost of the Roman Empire. Along winding streets and sun-washed squares, history comes alive through stories of emperors, gladiators, and everyday life in Roman Gaul. 

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh with a painting workshop (extra expense)
Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh as you explore the landscapes that inspired his iconic works. Afterwards, take part in a painting workshop, where you’ll try your hand at recreating the vibrant scenes that captured the artist’s imagination. As a memory from this unique experience, you get to bring home your own masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s legacy.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

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Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)  Set in the heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park, Les Baux de Provence is a World Heritage-listed site, recognised for being ‘one of the most beautiful villages in France’. Compact, with several shops and restaurants, the village retains its traditional style, with its narrow cobblestone streets and grey medieval stone buildings. The high, rocky pinnacle of Château-Fortress des Baux extends southwest of the village, and the incredible views make the trip very worthwhile.  Activity Level: Difficult / Active   Duration: 4 hours 

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Provencal cosmetic workshop (extra expense)
Experience the timeless art of Provencal soap-making in this hands-on workshop. Learn the traditional techniques used to create luxurious soaps from natural ingredients like olive oil, lavender, and other local botanicals. Create your own artisanal soap, guided by expert craftsmen, and take home a unique, fragrant souvenir of your Provencal experience.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration 3 hours

Avignon has a rich history, from its Celtic beginnings to its powerful position as the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. It’s most famous for the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as other glorious medieval architecture and a world-renowned arts festival. The city also played a significant role in the French Revolution, resulting in several violent conflicts.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon
Explore the World Heritage-listed highlights that adorn Avignon’s ancient town centre, as you venture down its cobbled alleyways. Witness the splendour of the Pont d’Avignon, a 12th-century bridge, and soak in sights of some of the medieval architecture that generously pepper the city.

EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon
Choose an active way to explore the region. Travel north of Avignon to board a canoe and paddle back towards town along the Rhône River. The wide, calm waters are ideal for canoeing, and you’ll get to take in the picturesque landscapes from a completely new perspective. You’ll even get to paddle beneath the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval landmark.

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Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
In the heart of Provence, the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct is one of humankind’s great masterpieces. This three-level Roman aqueduct is 275 metres long and 48 metres high, and served as an aqueduct until the sixth century. Later, it was used as a toll gate, before being transformed into a road bridge. As well as marvelling at this wonderful feat of engineering, you’ll visit the small Roman town of Uzès, ideal for exploring and enjoying some great food in the local restaurants.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 4.5 hours 

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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)
The appellation of Chateauneuf du Pape is one of the most famous in France, known for its warm red blends and creamy whites. The village itself has centuries of history that will charm and delight, including the picturesque ruins of a 14th-century castle. Enjoy a curated tasting of the region’s famous wines at a local vineyard.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.25 hours

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale
This evening, you'll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Dine on authentic dishes that celebrate the flavours of the region and its abundant fresh produce. Chef Fabien brings his passion for food to the table during this immersive dining experience, where he engages guests and shares his extensive knowledge and passion for Provençal cuisine.

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon
Enjoy a private classical concert set within a historic chapel where centuries-old stone walls create exceptional acoustics and a truly atmospheric setting. As the gentle light glows and music fills the space, a talented local trio performs timeless works, offering a moment of elegance, reflection, and cultural immersion. This exclusive experience blends Provence’s rich heritage with the beauty of live classical music for an unforgettable evening.

Arrive in Viviers today, a walled town with Middle Age flair that’s home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals, with parts dating back to the 12th century. In its charming centre, pastel-coloured buildings gently faded by the sun line narrow cobblestone streets, dotted with tiny shops and leafy squares. The town is part of the Provence region of southern France and is known for its natural beauty, relaxed ambience and sunny Mediterranean climate. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers
Your included tour of the town follows a unique heritage discovery trail that touches on many of its iconic monuments. Admire its architectural treasures, including the Maison des Chevaliers, a lavishly decorated Roman house with an extravagant Renaissance façade. 

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Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)
Embark on a transformative journey as you delve into the mesmerising depths of the Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum, an awe-inspiring testament to the indomitable spirit of human creativity. Let the luminosity of knowledge guide your steps as you traverse the cavernous expanse with a local guide who breathes life into the ancient canvases that adorn the largest decorated cave replica in the world.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône and is dominated by a 16th-century castle that overlooks the village. Within, there are several iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers and a lush botanic garden. Part of the Rhône Valley, the village is surrounded by vineyards producing some of the world’s finest reds. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon
Join your local guides to walk through Tournon as they unveil fascinating local history and offer insight into the traditions of viticulture. Admire its Roman ruins and Renaissance monuments, then marvel at the world’s oldest suspension bridge with cables. Afterwards, there are many local stores and coffee shops to visit during your time at leisure.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards
Embark on an active hike through the beautiful vineyards that surround Tournon, known for their fine syrah, marsanne and roussanne. A local guide will lead you through vineyards close to where your Emerald Star-Ship has docked, taking in the spectacular views of the Rhone River. On your way back, you may stop at a local chocolate maker for a tasting and shopping of renowned French chocolate.

Relax as you cruise along the Sâone River until you reach the lovely town of Mâcon. This could be a good time to explore what your Emerald Star-Ship has to offer, like the Sun Deck, putting green and indoor swimming pool with retractable rooftop. Founded by the Celts and developed by the Romans, Mâcon is at the heart of the Beaujolais wine region. The extensive planting of Gamay grapes makes Beaujolais one of just a few regions on the planet to focus on a single grape variety. It’s also worth noting that red wine accounts for 99% of its total wine production.

Included Excursion
Beaujolais wine tasting
Experience the flavours of the renowned Beaujolais region with a guided wine tasting. Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, Beaujolais is famous for its vibrant, fruit-forward wines, particularly the Beaujolais Nouveau. Visit a local vineyard, learn about the winemaking process, and sample a selection of wines that capture the essence of this picturesque region. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, this tasting offers a fascinating introduction to the world of Beaujolais wines.

France’s third-largest city, Lyon, is a former Roman capital and steeped in history. Set on the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, it's considered the gastronomic heartbeat of the country thanks to its rich culinary heritage, abundant fresh produce and famous local chefs. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, bustling food markets and more than 20 Michelin-starred restaurants, you'll be able to experience an array of cultural and culinary delights.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon  Enjoy a guided coach tour of Lyon, starting at Fourvières Hill to view the ancient Roman Theatre. Pass by the Romanesque and Byzantine Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, an impressive building that strayed away from the popular Gothic models of the same period. Join your guide on a walk through the city’s hidden passageways (called traboules) and admire the Renaissance-era houses. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Lyon  For guests who choose an active excursion over the standard city tour, meet your local guides for an e-bike discovery. Ride to the green lungs of the city, the famous Parc de la Tête d'Or, which was inaugurated in 1857, the same year as Central Park in New York. The largest urban park in France, it contains an impressive collection of more than 15,000 species of plants. The tour will take in the Tête d'Or park, zoo and greenhouses, former vet school and courthouse, and the Confluence district if requested. Take note that guests must be in good shape and confident cyclists. 

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Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
Located on a small hill overlooking the Ain River valley north of Lyon, the medieval walled town of Perouges is known for its wine and weaving. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, it’s filled with cobblestone streets and fascinating buildings. Starting from the upper gate, you’ll see the 15th-century fortified church, the former home of the princes of Savoy, the main street ‘Rue des Rondes’, a 33-metre-deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice, with its round tower.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

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Lyon by Night (extra expense)
Experience Lyon in a whole new light as the city comes alive after dusk. Stroll through illuminated streets, where centuries of history blend with modern vibrancy. From the glowing facades of Old Lyon to the shimmering reflections on the Saône, every corner tells a story. Marvel at the breathtaking view from Fourvière Hill, where the cityscape sparkles beneath the starry sky. Discover the charm of the World Heritage-listed Presqu'île, the city’s central district, filled with beautifully lit squares and fountains. Let the enchanting atmosphere of Lyon by night leave you spellbound.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

After breakfast, you will fly from Lyon to Porto, where the second half of your river cruising adventure awaits. Meet your lovely on board staff on your contemporary Emerald Radiance Star-Ship.

Relax on board today and enjoy a full day of cruising through the World Heritage-listed Douro Valley. This fascinating area builds on two millennia of wine-producing history, and viticulture has shaped the surrounding landscape, with small, sleepy villages surrounded by dozens of terraced vineyards. A highlight will be seeing Carrapatelo, the deepest lock in Europe. 

EmeraldPLUS
Portuguese cooking demonstration on board
Learn how to make the iconic Portuguese sweet treat Pastéis de Nata (custard tarts) during an on board cooking demonstration. The expert chef will share the story and traditions behind this signature dish and involve guests in an immersive experience.

A hidden gem just a few hours from Porto, Pinhão (pronounced ‘Pin-yow’) is a tiny village in the heart of the Douro Valley, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful countryside. It’s a place to take things slowly, sip local Port wine, explore hiking trails, or relax and soak up the charms of Portugal. 

Included Excursion
Visit to Quinta do Tedo with wine tasting
Visit the beautiful Quinta do Tedo vineyard, set on the hills surrounding the confluence of the Douro and Tedo rivers. This 18th-century estate is environmentally sound, creating organic produce using traditional viticulture methods. Enjoy tasting their famous Port wine and learning about how they blend traditional viticulture methods with modern technology to create a seamless process. Alternatively, join a guided walk through their vineyards, stopping to admire the beautiful surrounds.

EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak experience in Pinhão
Embark on a kayak excursion along the Pinhão River, taking in the impressive views from the heart of the Douro Valley. You’ll glide slowly past patchwork farmland, terraced vineyards and sprawling estates as you traverse this tranquil tributary of the Douro. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided active walk through the vineyards
Enjoy a guided walk through local vineyards, stopping along the way to admire the surroundings and the views over the Douro River. There are several different possibilities for hiking, to be adopted according to the fitness and desires of the group. Afterwards, join the group for the wine tasting. 

Just across the Spanish border, Vega de Terrón is at the junction of the Douro and Águeda rivers. It’s the gateway to the ancient city of Salamanca, known as the ‘Golden City’ for its stunning Renaissance architecture built from Villamayor sandstone, which glows golden, pink, and ochre at sunrise and sunset. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Salamanca
Founded in Roman times, the ancient city of Salamanca and its World Heritage-listed Old Quarter have an illustrious past, having been held by the Carthaginians, Romans and Moors. Set out on a walking tour, which includes exploring the postcard-worthy galleries and arcades that adorn Plaza Mayor. You’ll also have the opportunity to see Casa de las Conchas, a building that has been lovingly decorated with more than 300 shells, and Salamanca’s university, one of the oldest universities in Europe, dating back to 1218.

EmeraldPLUS
Tuna music band in Salamanca
The tradition of ‘tuna music’ dates back to the 13th century, arising from poor university students who would sing in the streets to raise money for their tuition. It showcases a powerful tradition of academic and social life in Spain, with performers dressing in distinctive clothing, including capes with colourful ribbons to represent their school. Enjoy a performance of this unique music from a local group.

The tiny village of Pocinho is around 30km (18.64 miles) from the Spanish border, surrounded by river and mountains. This isolated spot has a population of just a few hundred, with its white-walled and red-roofed buildings all but blending into the landscape. Nearby, museums and archaeological sites will take you deeper into Portugal’s history. 

Included Excursion
Tour to Castelo Rodrigo
Visit the charming medieval town of Castelo Rodrigo, a small, fortified village perched high on a hilltop. Uncover the secrets of its history, admire its 16th-century walls and walk down charming, narrow medieval streets. Later, try some typical local products and enjoy some free time to explore on your own. 

EmeraldPLUS
Port wine cocktail lesson on board
Return to your Emerald Star-Ship for lunch, then enjoy a Port wine cocktail lesson as you cruise down the river. Port wine became popular in the 17th century and is created by adding brandy to wine during fermentation, resulting in a strong, sweet, high-alcohol style that can be used in many delicious combinations.

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Archaeological tour by 4x4 at the Côa Valley Museum (extra expense)
The tour begins at the Côa Museum, a vast open-air rock art collection of the Côa Valley. Board your jeep and drive to the area where the abandoned Côa dam was being built, and onwards through a landscape marked by the construction work that determined the recent history of the Côa rock art. The final part of the tour is on foot.
Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 3.5 hours.

Get an insight into Portuguese life in Régua, a busy town that sits at the western edge of the Port wine growing region. It is steeped in winemaking culture and has been an important trading and transport centre since the 18th century. Backed by the stunning Serra do Marão mountains, it promises dramatic scenery and a welcoming atmosphere.

Cruise to Porto in the afternoon, where you’ll remain docked overnight, allowing you to explore this vibrant city after dark.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lamego
On today’s included excursion, you’ll visit the marvellous Baroque village of Lamego, a place that has been shaped by Portugal’s devout Catholic faith and centuries of winemaking. Nestled among the terraced slopes of the Douro Valley, the elegant town is infused with Baroque style. Stop to admire the picturesque Shrine of Our Lady of Remedies, a structure that stands gracefully over the town. Its hundreds of zigzagging stairs are decorated with tiled friezes and climb out of a tailored garden resplendent with a variety of trees. 

EmeraldPLUS
Rural lunch at a local quinta
Enjoy a rural lunch at a local Quinta, a famous wine estate in the Douro, which is certain to be a highlight of your trip. A traditional meal will be served and beautifully accompanied by local entertaine

EmeraldPLUS
Mosaic tile painting lesson on board
Colourful painted tiles, called azulejos, are everywhere in Portugal. Learn about their origins, place in Portuguese culture and how they are created during a mosaic tile painting workshop on board. This hands-on experience will immerse you in Portuguese artistic traditions. You’ll even get to take home your azulejos as a souvenir.

EmeraldACTIVE
Walk down the steps of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies
From the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies, an important pilgrimage site on a hill above Lamego, walk down 686 cobbled steps to reach the centre of the village. This Baroque, zig-zag staircase offers spectacular views and is lined with small chapels and shrines dedicated to various saints and martyrs. 

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Visit to Mateus Manor House (extra expense)
Built in the 18th century, Mateus Manor House is one of the finest representations of Baroque architecture in Portugal. Consisting of the main house, the gardens, a winery and a chapel, you may recognise these wonderful dwellings from the label of Portugal’s famous rosé wine. Enjoy a guided tour of this spectacular estate.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5-3 hours

Located at the mouth of the Douro River, Porto is a fascinating and eclectic mix of modern and ancient architecture. Famous for its export of Port wines, it’s easy to imagine how British merchant ships would have once clustered together in the medieval harbour, waiting to take their produce across the water.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Porto
Your included coach tour of the coastal city will introduce you to its highlights, from the bustling waterfront to its colourful buildings and iconic bridges. It will touch on the fortified structures of Castelo da Foz and Castelo do Queijo, a building whose pentagonal façades overlook the ocean. 

EmeraldPLUS
A cruise through Porto
This evening, a charming evening cruise will shine a different light on Porto's skyline. 

EmeraldPLUS
Guided active walk in Porto
For those who wish to see the charms of Porto on foot, this active walk through the town will bring you closer to the vibrant daily life of the locals. Cross the old iron bridge back to Porto city to admire the Porto Cathedral and visit the Old Town and São Bento railway station. 

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Visit to Quinta da Aveleda (extra expense)
Explore the fairytale-like property of Quinta Aveleda, a renowned sparkling wine producer with a 150-year history. A highlight of this tour is the estate’s enchanting gardens. After your tour, enjoy a wine and cheese tasting followed by some free time.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Guided bike tour to the Atlantic (extra expense) A guided e-bike tour is the easiest and most attractive way to discover the wonderful city of Porto. Enjoy a few hours cycling along the Douro River until you reach the Atlantic Ocean. The path is flat, and there will be several stops along the way for commentary and photo opportunities.
Activity level: Moderate; Duration: 4 hours

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your Emerald Star-Ship and fellow guests, taking memories of terraced vineyards and authentic Portuguese culture with you. 

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.