Maureen Leesman

Lyon (Embark)

Set along a narrow peninsula between the Rhone and Saone Rivers, Lyon is located in the heart of France's Provence region. Visitors can take in panoramic views from atop Fourviere Hill and step into the past when they tour Vieux Lyon's (Old Lyon's) cobblestone streets and 16th century architecture. Now an important educational center, Lyon's cultural life is reflected in its buildings, museums and houses. Dominating the skyline is the Basilica of Fourviere, known for its lavish interior decorations of marble and mosaics.

Lyon

Set along a narrow peninsula between the Rhone and Saone Rivers, Lyon is located in the heart of France's Provence region. Visitors can take in panoramic views from atop Fourviere Hill and step into the past when they tour Vieux Lyon's (Old Lyon's) cobblestone streets and 16th century architecture. Now an important educational center, Lyon's cultural life is reflected in its buildings, museums and houses. Dominating the skyline is the Basilica of Fourviere, known for its lavish interior decorations of marble and mosaics.

Macon

A stroll along the quays of this sunny city reveals the natural beauty of the Saone river. See the Benedictine monastery of Cluny for a glimplse of the abbey´s former glory, view part of the Roman transept, the octagonal tower, the Chapelle de Bourbon, and the monastery with its cloisters. Wine connoisseurs may journey to Maconnais for a wine tasting at a local winery.

Vienne

Surrounded by steep hills and situated between France's Burgundy and Beaujolais regions, Vienne is the gateway to Lyon's countryside. The old town is rich in Roman and medieval buildings including ancient market ruins. Vienne's history can be traed through its architecture, dating back to the Roman Temple of Augustus built in the 1st century. Other landmarks include the Abbey of Saint Pierre and the Church of Saint-Andre-Le-Bas.

Viviers

Located in one of the most beautiful areas in Southern France, Viviers has retained its Old World charm. The town was developed around its Romanesque cathedral, with facade, porch, and solitary tower that still survive today. Enjoy a privately-arranged organ demonstration.

Avignon

Sheltered by medieval walls, Avignon's maze of narrow streets is filled with churches, museums and palaces tracing the history of this ancient, vibrant city. Visitors can capture a bird's eye view of the city and surrounding Rhône River valley from the top of Cathedral Hill. Avignon is known as the "City of Popes," due to the role the city played in the Avignon conspiracy during the 14th century, when a series of popes abandoned Rome and fled to Avignon. Still remaining from this time of this papal residence, the lavish Palais des Papes, a fortress, church and palace was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century. From 1309-1377, seven popes resided in this stunning building, one of the world's most unique and grandiose examples of gothic architecture.

Avignon

Sheltered by medieval walls, Avignon's maze of narrow streets is filled with churches, museums and palaces tracing the history of this ancient, vibrant city. Visitors can capture a bird's eye view of the city and surrounding Rhône River valley from the top of Cathedral Hill. Avignon is known as the "City of Popes," due to the role the city played in the Avignon conspiracy during the 14th century, when a series of popes abandoned Rome and fled to Avignon. Still remaining from this time of this papal residence, the lavish Palais des Papes, a fortress, church and palace was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century. From 1309-1377, seven popes resided in this stunning building, one of the world's most unique and grandiose examples of gothic architecture.

Avignon

Sheltered by medieval walls, Avignon's maze of narrow streets is filled with churches, museums and palaces tracing the history of this ancient, vibrant city. Visitors can capture a bird's eye view of the city and surrounding Rhône River valley from the top of Cathedral Hill. Avignon is known as the "City of Popes," due to the role the city played in the Avignon conspiracy during the 14th century, when a series of popes abandoned Rome and fled to Avignon. Still remaining from this time of this papal residence, the lavish Palais des Papes, a fortress, church and palace was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century. From 1309-1377, seven popes resided in this stunning building, one of the world's most unique and grandiose examples of gothic architecture.

Arles

Discover sun-drenched vistas and ancient monuments that inspired Van Gogh and Cezanne. Known as the "Little Rome of Gaul," a stroll through the narrow and winding streets of Arles is like stepping back in time. Enjoy the many cafes located by the Place du Forum and the Place Voltaire, as well as designer boutiques.

Arles

Discover sun-drenched vistas and ancient monuments that inspired Van Gogh and Cezanne. Known as the "Little Rome of Gaul," a stroll through the narrow and winding streets of Arles is like stepping back in time. Enjoy the many cafes located by the Place du Forum and the Place Voltaire, as well as designer boutiques.

Marseille (Disembark)

Founded nearly 26 centuries ago, Marseilles is the oldest city in France, a mosaic of old and new with a dozen villages and eight islands, each offering a world of enchanting discoveries. At nearby Avignon, visit the magmificient Palace of the Popes and the hilltop Basilica Notre Dame de la Garde. Explore ruins of 13th century Palais Longchamps and colorful "Old Harbour" where you can browse open-air markets.