Spectacular South of France with Paris & the French Riviera

Day programme:

After breakfast, explore Paris with your choice of Scenic Freechoice excursions.Scenic Freechoice: Guided tour of Paris: Journey via coach through the City of Light. You’ll see some of the city’s most mesmerising districts and monuments. Drive along the banks of the beautiful Seine River and pass Palais Garnier, the 19th century opera house, the Louvre, one of the world’s largest art museums, and the impressive Les Invalides complex.Secrets of Montmartre: Step back in time as you trapse the winding cobblestone streets of the district that has been home to many famous artists for centuries and once you see the beauty of this district you will understand why. See some of the quirky characteristics of the district including the greenspace in the middle of the city, the vineyard of Montmartre that produces some 27 varieties of wine.

Day programme:

After breakfast, transfer via high speed train to Lyon where you will embark the Scenic Sapphire. Our friendly crew will be excited to welcome you on board ready for your 10 night cruise along the Saône and Rhône rivers.

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.

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.

Day programme:

Cruising downstream, along the Rhône River, your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Chavanay today. This charming village is made up of quintessentially French red-roofed buildings and surrounded by the lush vineyards of the Rhône wine region. It’s also known for its outdoor pursuits, such as hiking and cycling, and is a key stop on the French Camino pilgrimage route.Scenic Freechoice: Discover your way with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Vienne with Roman theatre: Travel to nearby Vienne to uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. You will visit one of the best-preserved Roman theatres, which was built against the steep slopes of a hill and could hold more than 10,000 spectators.St-Joseph – Côte-Rôtie wine tasting: Savour the exquisite wines of the Côte-Rôtie amid the charming vineyards of Chavanay. This region is renowned for its exceptional terroirs that produce some of the finest wines in France. During a private tour of a local estate, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship and passion behind each bottle.Cycling tour: Enjoy an easy e-bike tour along gentle, flat terrain. Make a leisurely loop from Chavanay along the Rhône River and through nearby picturesque villages. The route offers beautiful views of the rolling hills and stops for wine tasting or local refreshments.

Day programme:

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an historic village in the southern Rhône Valley, famous for its full-bodied red wines made primarily from Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes. The name means ‘new castle of the pope’ as it was a papal summer residence in the 14th century.Today, it is a celebrated wine region with over 300 wineries offering tastings and tours, attracting wine lovers from around the world.Scenic Freechoice: Explore the area on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape: The fertile banks of the Rhône are peppered with Côte du Rhône vineyards, including at the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, where centuries of wine production make for a fascinating history. Take this opportunity to sample some of the region’s most celebrated wines.Chocolate workshop: Experience a delicious tour of Chocolaterie Castelain, featuring a live chocolate-making demonstration followed by a tasting session. Savour their signature artisanal chocolates infused with local Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine, paired perfectly with select regional wines and delicacies.Bike tour along the Rhône: Follow the gentle paths of the ViaRhôna along the beautiful Rhône riverbanks on this gentle cycling tour. As you pedal through peaceful landscape filled with vineyards on both riverbanks, you’ll reach the impressive Passerelle de l'Oiselay, a striking pedestrian and cycle bridge offering stunning panoramic views over the river.

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.

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.

Day programme:

The southernmost point of your journey, Arles is in the Provence region and close to the Mediterranean coast. Founded around 56BC by Julius Caesar, the city has a rich Roman heritage and is thought to have the largest number of Roman ruins outside the Eternal City itself. The remnants of ancient monuments, theatres, baths and administrative buildings are strewn along the river’s left bank. It was also the home of Vincent van Gogh in 1888 and he drew inspiration from the landscape for many of his paintings and drawings.Scenic Freechoice: Explore the city with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Arles: Join a local guide for an insightful walking tour. Departing from the ship, you’ll visit the heart of Arles to see the ancient Roman amphitheatre, Arènes d'Arles, a 20,000-seat arena that was built in 90 AD, that’s still in use today. Experience the vibrant colours and striking quality of light that has inspired many artists.Visit Les Baux with Carrières des Lumières: Journey to the stunning medieval village of Les Baux. Visit a former quarry that is now the site of Carrières des Lumières, an enormous 7,000 square-metre site that hosts an immersive visual and musical installation highlighting the works of notable artists.Ancestry of the Kitchen with olive mill: Visit a local farm where you will learn the techniques of olive oil production. Later, the owner will share their experience of life in this region as well as traditional Provençal recipes.Discovery of lavender – from field to perfume: Provence region is renowned for aromatic herbs, particularly lavender. At certain times of the year (typically from late June to mid-August), fields are transformed into a breathtaking sea of purple. Visit a local organic farm specialising in the production of essential oils from lavender, thyme, rosemary, and other herbs. Discover the health benefits of these plants, learn the process of essential oil extraction, and create your own natural and fragrant lavender mist, made with organic essential oil.Following Vincent – Van Gogh’s Arles: Step into the vibrant world of Vincent van Gogh on a walking tour. Trace the artist’s journey through the sunlit streets and historic sites that inspired some of his most famous works during his 15 months in this charming Provençal town, experiencing the colours and atmosphere that shaped his genius.Relax on board this afternoon as you cruise to Avignon. You could take a seat on the Sun Deck and watch the picturesque landscapes pass by as you enjoy a glass of local wine.

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.

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.

Day programme:

Wake in the ancient city of Avignon. Known as the ‘City of the Popes’, Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture. At the same time, it also has a youthful energy and a buzzing arts scene. Encompassed by fortified walls, the former papal capital is home to the World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d’Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea.Scenic Freechoice: Select your choice from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Avignon including a visit to the Popes Palace: From the ship, you will be guided on a walk through Avignon, visiting the historic city walls and the Pope’s Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. Avignon is filled with cobblestoned streets and the palace has numerous steps, so a moderate degree of fitness is required for this tour.Excursion to Pont Du Gard: Visit the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, on a guided tour. Dating to the middle of the first century, this engineering masterpiece was designed to carry water to the city of Nîmes.Shop with a Chef & Scenic Culinaire: Join your Scenic chef to visit the local market where you will shop for and sample the best ingredients this region has to offer. Return to the ship for an interactive cooking demonstration at Scenic Culinaire cooking demonstration. (Please note: Avignon Market is closed on a Monday).Excursion to Luberon villages and Sénanque Abbey: Visit the village of Gordes, considered one of the most beautiful in France. Its stone buildings spiral around the rock on which it is perched, with the church and castle at the apex. Later, visit the picturesque Sénanque Abbey.This afternoon is at your leisure to further explore Avignon at your own pace. If you’re feeling energetic, wander up Le Rocher des Doms. Set 30 metres above the river, it offers excellent views over the city as well as a pretty English-style garden with shady trees, fountains and ponds.Scenic EnrichClassical concert at the Palais des Papes: When the doors are closed to the general public, you’ll have one of the most visited sites in France to yourself. Upon arrival, you will be ushered into the grandiose palace for an exclusive gala dinner accompanied by classical concert from a trio of musicians, in the very room the Pope used to dine. Be immersed in the beauty of famous classical pieces, which gain a new fascinating dimension inside the palace’s walls.

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.

Day programme:

This morning you will arrive in Viviers, often described as an open-air museum thanks to its rich medieval heritage and architecture. The town was founded in the fifth century, and as you walk down the narrow, zig-zagging lanes, you will feel as though little has changed in the past 1,600 years. At its peak in the Middle Ages, Viviers was home to 30,000 people, today less than 4,000 people live here, happily secluded in their own world.Scenic Freechoice: The choice is yours with this morning's Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Viviers: Join a local guide to explore Viviers on foot. Admire its many monuments and architectural treasures such as the Cathedral of St. Vincent – first built in the 11th century, it is now resplendent in 18th century Gothic style with a Renaissance facade. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Viviers at your leisure.French Resistance walking tour: On a walking tour of Viviers, hear stories of the French Resistance, who fought bravely against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Learn local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic town.WWII in Viviers: Uncover the layered history of Viviers, whose quiet charm belies a dramatic past. This guided walk reveals how the Rhône Valley became a pivotal stage in the Battle of Montélimar, when Allied and German forces clashed in August 1944 during the final push to liberate southern France. Learn why this battle is still studied at West Point.Scenic Freechoice: This afternoon, explore further with one of the following Scenic Freechoice:Ardèche Nature Park with Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum: Explore the mountains and medieval fortress ruins of this sprawling park. Then be immersed in the Caverne du Pont-d’Arc Museum, the largest decorated Palaeolithic cave replica in the world. The original site was deemed too fragile for public access, so this replica cave was built only a few kilometres from the actual cave.Côtes du Rhône Villages tasting: Discover the rich flavours of Côtes du Rhône villages wines on a guided tasting tour through the heart of the Rhône Valley. Enjoy a warm, rustic atmosphere as you explore wines that perfectly capture the charm and character of southern France.Excursion to Grignan de Provence: Join your local guide on an exploration of the beautiful provincial town of Grignan. See the mighty castle that dominates the town as well as the Collegiate Church of the Holy Saviour before enjoying some time at leisure.

Day programme:

Arrive in the picturesque town of Tournon this afternoon. This hillside village is known for its terraced vineyards, enchanting castle dating back to the 10th century and quaint cobblestoned streets.Scenic Freechoice: Spend this afternoon at your preferred pace with one of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:Walking tour of Tournon: Explore the town on foot. Learn its fascinating history and visit the castle, built between the 10th and 16th centuries, that still dominates this town. Enjoy free time afterwards. You may like to cross France's oldest suspension bridge to the neighbouring town of Tain l'Hermitage, home to prestigious chocolatiers Valrhona.Hiking through the vineyards in Tournon: Get close to nature as you hike through the sloping vineyards that overlook the Rhône River above Tournon. Learn about the local wine production and taste some of the delicious drops of the region.Biking along the Rhône: Cycle the picturesque banks of the Rhône River past charming villages and spectacular scenery to the nearby village of Glun.Back on board this evening, indulge in an exquisite dessert buffet, where the artistry of a local pastry chef brings classic French cakes to life. Savour a variety of beautifully displayed desserts, each slice a masterpiece that pairs perfectly with fine coffee or a glass of dessert wine.

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.

Day programme:

Greet the day in Lyon. You may like to arrange for your butler to deliver a coffee to your suite and enjoy it in your private Scenic Sun Lounge before venturing out for the day. Sitting at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon was founded by the Romans in 43BC. Since the mid-1500s it has been a financial and industrial powerhouse and today is recognised as France’s culinary capital. The city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants – including 20 that hold Michelin stars – and eating well is a way of life.Scenic Freechoice: Explore Lyon with this today’s range of Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Lyon: Discover Lyon’s historic significance as you traverse its hidden traboules and secret passageways that date back to the fourth century. Then visit the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière, offering a fabulous vantage point for views across Lyon.Excursion to Pérouges: Visit this medieval walled village, located atop a hill overlooking the Ain River. It has been beautifully preserved, featuring vine-covered stone buildings, cobbled laneways and a market square centred around a centuries-old lime tree. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces and a lot of walking both up and down hill, this tour is recommended only for guests with a high degree of fitness.Silk painting workshop: Lyon has a rich heritage of silk production that dates back almost five centuries to when Louis XI chose the city as a potential base for the silk weaving industry. In the 19th century, silk was one of the city’s largest industries. During this workshop, you’ll learn about the history and process of silk painting.Scenic EnrichChoral concert at Chapelle de la Trinite: Tonight, admire the beauty of one of the city’s grandest Baroque buildings, Trinity Chapel. Built in the 17th century, the interior is decadently covered in Carrara marble. Exclusive to Scenic guests, you will be immersed in a breath-taking acapella choir performance in this wonderful setting.

Day programme:

Dock in the town of Mâcon, which will be your base for exploring the surrounding south Burgundy region. Mâcon sits right on the edge of the river, with pretty pastel-hued buildings, ancient churches and picturesque quays. It is close to the Burgundy wine region, one of the most famous in France, which produces exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and sparkling.Scenic Freechoice: Choose from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Excursion to Cluny and Cluny Abbey: Step back in time to the medieval town of Cluny, which is famous for its Benedictine Abbey, once the largest Christian buildings in the world. Tour the impressive town, learn about its history and soak up its charm during some free time.Excursion to Château de Cormatin: Transfer by coach to the historic Château de Cormatin, built in 1606. The castle boasts a fascinating history and has been lovingly restored back to its original glory. Admire the castle’s gilded rooms, moat, water features and more than 10 hectares of manicured gardens on a guided tour.Truffle tasting: Meet a local truffle farmer and his hound to learn the tricks and techniques of truffle farming. Afterwards, enjoy tasting of truffle butter plus chocolate mousse with truffles.Tour of Tournus: Stroll through the picturesque, narrow streets lined with pastel-coloured buildings on a captivating journey through Tournous’ rich historical and cultural heritage. Highlights include the remarkable Hôtel-Dieu, a beautifully restored hospital from the 18th century, and the stunning Saint-Philibert Abbey, dating back to the 12th century.This afternoon, enjoy a cooperage demonstration. A skilled artisan will show you the secret of this ancient art and learn how it still plays a crucial role in wine and spirit making.Tonight, sit down to an exclusive dinner on board prepared by Michelin-starred Chef Didier Goiffon. This intimate dining experience in Crystal Dining allows you to experience authentic flavours in exquisite regional dishes that showcase the best of French gastronomy.

Day programme:

Stay in Mâcon this morning to discover more of the region’s gourmet delights and dramatic architecture.Scenic Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Beaujolais wine region: Drive through the rolling hills of the world-famous Beaujolais wine region and meet a local vintner. Discover how this wine is produced and enjoy sampling some of the region’s best drops.Georges Blanc cooking demonstration: Learn the story of the village of Vonnas, a gourmet destination home to Michelin-star chef George Blanc. Visit one of his famed restaurants for an interactive cooking demonstration featuring classic French dishes.Monastère Royal de Brou and Bourg-en-Bresse: Discover the cultural treasures of Bourg-en-Bresse with a guided tour featuring the stunning Monastère Royal de Brou. This 16th century masterpiece commissioned by Margaret of Austria combines flamboyant Gothic architecture with refined Renaissance artistry. Today, it serves as a museum showcasing centuries of Flemish and Netherlandish art.

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.

Day programme:

Farewell your Scenic Space-Ship and journey to Nice.Welcome to the heart of the French Riviera. Upon arrival, transfer to your luxury hotel and settle in as you enjoy the timeless charm of the Côte d’Azur.This dazzling stretch of coastline has long captivated artists, writers, and royalty with its blend of elegance, glamour, and Mediterranean beauty. Spend the afternoon at leisure – stroll the palm-lined promenades, wander cobbled old towns, or simply relax with a glass of wine as the sea breeze drifts in.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles’ chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d’Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighboring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice’s most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice’s port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the “Family Plus” label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles’ chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d’Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighboring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice’s most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice’s port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the “Family Plus” label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.

Day programme:

This morning, set out on a guided walking tour of Nice, the glittering capital of the French Riviera. Stroll along the iconic Promenade des Anglais, where palm trees line the sweeping curve of the Mediterranean coast. Pause at Place Masséna, the city’s grand central square, where French elegance meets Italian flair, before venturing into the colourful maze of Vieux Nice. Here, narrow cobbled streets open to lively markets and artisan shops, with the scent of fresh flowers, herbs, and spices filling the air.In the evening, join your Tour Director for an included dinner at a local restaurant, chosen to reflect the effortless charm and culinary excellence that make the French Riviera so captivating.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles’ chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d’Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighboring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice’s most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice’s port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the “Family Plus” label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.

Day programme:

Scenic Freechoice: Today, choose the way to explore this beautiful region with the following Scenic Freechoice:Excursion to Monte Carlo: Beautiful Monte Carlo is just a short ride from Nice. Take in the beauty of this coastal gem on a city tour. See the Prince's Palace, the renowned Casino, the circuit of one of the most breathtaking Formula One races, and much more.Saint-Paul de Vence: Wander the same timeless streets that inspired legends like Picasso and Chagall. The medieval architecture, lively markets, and artistic spirit of this picturesque town will captivate you.

United with France only since 1860, Nice has its own history and atmosphere, which dates back 230,000 years. It was on Colline du Château (now château-less) and at the Plage des Ponchettes, in front of the Old Town, that the Greeks established a market-port in 350 BC and named it Nikaia, which would become Marseilles’ chief coastal rival. The Romans established themselves a little later on the hills of Cimiez (Cemenelum), already previously occupied by Ligurians and Celts, and quickly overshadowed the waterfront port. After falling to the Saracen invasions, Nice regained power as an independent state, becoming an important port in the early Middle Ages.So cocksure did it become that in 1388, Nice, along with the hill towns behind, effectively seceded from the county of Provence, under Louis d’Anjou, and allied itself with Savoie. Thus began its liaison with the House of Savoy, and through it with Piedmont and Sardinia, it was the Comté de Nice (Nice County). This relationship lasted some 500 years, tinting the culture, architecture, and dialect in rich Italian hues.By the 19th century Nice was flourishing commercially, locked in rivalry with the neighboring shipping port of Genoa. Another source of income: the dawning of tourism, as first the English, then the Russian nobility, discovered its extraordinary climate and superb waterfront position. A parade of fine stone mansions and hotels closed into a nearly solid wall of masonry, separated from the smooth-round rocks of the beach by what was originally named Camin deis Anglés (the English Way), which of course is now the famous Promenade des Anglais. This magnificent crescent, which is seeking UNESCO recognition, is one of the noblest in France. Many of Nice’s most delightful attractions—the Cours Saleya market, the Old Town streets, the Hotel Negresco, and the Palais Masséna—are on or close to this 10-km (6-mile) waterfront, making it the first stop for most visitors, while the redevelopment of Nice’s port, around the other side of the Colline du Château, makes it easier for amblers who want to take in the Genoese architecture or peruse the antiques at the Puces de Nice, now part of the Promenade des 100 Antiquaires, along Quai Papacino. Nice also has the distinction of the “Family Plus” label, with free strollers, play areas, and restaurants with child-friendly activities.

Day programme:

Your journey uncovering the timeless charm of the French Riviera ends today. After breakfast, bid farewell to Nice, carrying with you memories for a lifetime.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. Please refer to our terms and conditions.