DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
Day 1 :
In Transit from North America to Lyon, France
Depart for Lyon, France, aboard scheduled jet service, which is provide for Air Program participants. Travelers participating in the AHI Travel Air Program will enjoy advanced seat assignments on most airlines; an air price guarantee including all fuel surcharges, airport and airline taxes; arrival and departure transfers including baggage handling; and many other benefits.
Meals—Appropriate In-Flight Meal Service
Day 2 :
Lyon
Arrive in Lyon. Air Program passengers will be met by an AHI Travel Representative in the arrivals hall. Other passengers who arranged independent flights through AHI and are able to join the group transfer and Land Program passengers who have purchased a transfer from AHI should check the flight arrivals monitor and proceed to the group flight arrivals hall to join the awaiting AHI Travel Representative.
Embark the MS Amadeus Symphony. where your room keys will be distributed and luggage will be delivered directly to your cabin. Your AHI Travel Director will be with your throughout your journey to handle all program logistics and to assist with sightseeing arrangements, dinner reservations, shopping suggestions and more. The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to relax and settle into your new environment.
This evening, attend a Captain’s Welcome Reception aboard the ship.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Dinner
Day 3 :
Beaune
Excursion: Beaune.
Situated in Burgundy’s Côte d’Or, Beaune is known for the products of its many vineyards, as well as the artistic treasures of its Hôtel-Dieu. Created to be a hospital refuge to the poor, today it still provides medical treatment, although it is renowned for its museum showcasing its vibrant tapestries, elaborate paintings and beautiful furniture.
Later today, the ship sets sail for Mâcon.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 4 :
Mâcon
Excursion: Cluny and Cormartin.
Visit the magnificent ruins of the Abbey of Cluny. Continue to the castle of Cormartin, with its intricately frescoed walls and exquisite gardens.
Excursion: Pérouges.
Travel through the upper Rhône Valley to the medieval walled town of Pérouges, famous for its linen weaving handicraft and architecture.
Educational Focus: History of the Rhône Valley.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 5 :
Lyon
Excursion: Lyon.
Inhabited since Roman times, a visit to Lyon is a journey through the centuries. See its Roman ruins, then visit the nearby Basilica of Notre-Dame-de-Fourvière for breathtaking panoramas over the city. Continue your exploration through the traboules, unique covered passageways that connect various streets.
The afternoon is at leisure in Lyon.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 6 :
Viviers
Excursion: Viviers.
Discover the highlights of this picturesque town. See the Town Hall, the impressive Cathedral of St. Vincent and the ornate façade of the House of the Chevaliers.
Excursion: Châteauneuf du Pape.
See Châteauneuf du Pape, one of France’s most famous wine-making regions. Tour a working vineyard and sample the wine.
Educational Focus: The Art of Provence.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 7 :
Arles/Pont du Gard
Excursion: Arles.
On a walking tour, discover picturesque Arles, its Old Quarter, ancient Roman theater and amphitheater. Visit the beautiful 12th-century Church of St. Trôphime with its magnificent Romanesque portal and serene cloisters.
Excursion: Pont du Gard.
The Pont du Gard, built by the Romans in 19 B.C., was part of a 30-mile canal to supply water to the town of Nîmes. The massive three-tiered aqueduct rises 160 feet above the valley and was used through the ninth century.
Educational Focus: Contemporary France.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 8 :
Cruising/Avignon
This morning, watch the tranquil Rhône River landscape pass by as you cruise toward Avignon.
Excursion: Palace of the Popes.
Stroll through the medieval heart of Avignon. See its stone ramparts, lovely gardens, and panoramic views from St. Bénezet Bridge. Explore the formidable and uniquely beautiful 14th-century Palace of the Popes, comprised of the austere Old Palace and the ornate New Palace.
Educational Focus: Religious and Political History of Avignon.
Tonight, attend a Farewell Reception and Dinner on board the ship.
Accommodations—MS Amadeus Symphony.
Meals—Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 9 :
In Transit
After breakfast, transfer to the Marseille airport for your return flights to North America.
Transfer and flights are provided for Air Program participants.
Meals—Breakfast and Appropriate In-Flight Meal Service
Note: Itinerary sequence and/or scheduled events may change. Many excursions in this program involve an element of walking.
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