Grand France Holiday

Mantes-la-Jolie is a commune in the Yvelines department in the Île-de-France region of north-central France. It is located to the west of Paris, 48.4 km from the centre of the capital.

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How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out.

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Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious.

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The Seine-Maritime is a breath of fresh air. An idyllic department tucked away between the Seine and France’s northwestern coastline, this area is replete with historic towns, seaports, and locals who are passionate about keeping the traditions of France alive.

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Fall even deeper in love with the Normandy countryside today. In addition to a visit Château de La Roche-Guyon, you can spend your day sipping on farm-fresh Normandy cider.

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Embrace the holiday spirit as we ferry you around the best Christmas markets of Paris, where you’ll find delicious seasonal goodies and some excellent gifting opportunities waiting for you. Later, you’re in for a real treat: a private welcome to a beautiful château.

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Today is all about the glamor that makes Paris Paris, as we honor Parisian shopping culture with a walking tour of the city’s famous seasonal window displays, complete with a visit to the opera house.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu’île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

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You’ll transfer from the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre cruise ship in Paris to the striking S.S. Catherine in Lyon via high-speed TGV train for the second half of this fabulous grand tour. Once you’ve settled into your new home, you’ll have some time to explore delightful Lyon, which is nestled alongside the Saône River.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu’île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.

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A bastion of French culinary traditions, historic architecture, and culture, Lyon reigns as one of the greatest cities in all of France. It should come as no surprise, therefore, that its holiday traditions are so spectacular, with thousands of twinkling lights wrapping the city for a distinctive Christmas season display.

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The capital of the Drôme, Valence invites you to enjoy a festive holiday visit in an attractive town wrapped in twinkling lights. You’ll be delighted to discover that Valence is a town with a strong culinary tradition, and the market vendors are prepared to prove it. Keep an eye out for local specialties: orange-blossom infused Suisse breads shaped to resemble Pope Pius VI’s Swiss guards and sheets of tiny ravioli made with parsley and cheese known as Ravioles du Dauphiné.

Viviers, France, is a charming medieval town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, it features narrow, winding streets, ancient stone houses, and the impressive Saint-Vincent Cathedral. The town’s Roman and medieval heritage is evident in its old ramparts and historic buildings. Viviers’ tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings offer a glimpse into the past, making it a delightful destination for history lovers and those seeking a serene escape.

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Drive from our dock in Viviers to the deeply Provençal city of Grignan, passing by eye-catching Renaissance-era estates and scenic countryside on the way. A sunny, almost Mediterranean destination during the summer, Grignan in the winter is often wrapped in an atmospheric fog, heightening the feeling that you’ve stepped back in time to a medieval village.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d’Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.

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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. Visitors during the holiday season are treated to the cozy sight of festive decorations, shops overflowing with seasonal treats, and local vendors selling handmade wares that make excellent Christmas presents.

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Tarascon is an arresting sight. The white stone buildings that proliferate throughout the town—including an eye-catching castle that sits right on the banks of the Rhône—catch the colors of the rising and setting sun beautifully.

Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

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Today, you’ll enjoy a full-day outing to one of the most festive winter destinations in the region: elegant Aix-en-Provence, where you’ll find beautifully decorated public squares and unique seasonal traditions.

Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.

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Check out and disembark the ship this morning. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Marseille Provence Airport for your flight home.