Welcome to France and the ancient city of Lyon. Upon arrival, transfer to Scenic Sapphire, where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board.

Spend the afternoon exploring your Scenic Space-Ship. Relax in your luxurious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck and admire the magnificent views across the city of Lyon.

Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 07:00 PM.

Spend a leisurely morning on board as you cruise towards Macon. Perhaps ask your butler to bring coffee to your suite admiring views from your Scenic Sun Lounge as the riverside scenery glides by. 

An idyllic base for exploring the Burgundy wine region, Mâcon is renowned for its charming old town, quaint riverside streets, and its celebrated white wines.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with a choice from these Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Excursion to Château de Cormatin: Travel through picturesque countryside for a guided visit to the splendid Renaissance castle of Cormatin. Explore its gilded rooms, moat, water features, and beautifully manicured gardens. Stroll through original 17th-century interiors with gold-leaf decoration, then enjoy free time in the gardens.

Georges Blanc cooking demonstration: Journey to the picturesque village of Vonnas for an exclusive cooking demonstration at Michelin starred restaurant Georges Blanc. Walk through charming streets to the celebrated restaurant, where you'll discover the story of Maison Blanc and witness the preparation of classic regional dishes, including Volaille de Bresse à la crème and crêpes vonnassiennes. After the demonstration, enjoy free time exploring the village before returning to the ship. (Available on select dates. When not available, option will be replaced with a cooking demo at a Michelin star restaurant).

Truffle tasting: Experience the secrets of truffle farming on a visit to a local farm, nestled in the countryside near Cortevaix. Meet the passionate farmer and his hound, discover how truffles are grown and harvested, and then savour a tasting of truffle butter and decadent chocolate mousse with truffles—paired with a glass of fine local French white wine. The visit also offers time to stroll through the rolling fields and immerse yourself in the authentic atmosphere of Burgundy. (Available on select dates. When not available option will be replaced with a Sheep Farm visit).

Excursion to Cluny and visit Cluny Abbey: Step back in time on a guided tour of Cluny, home to the magnificent 10th-century Benedictine Abbey. Wander through the village and explore its grand church remains, impressive monastic buildings, and the vast 18th-century cloister overlooking the historic chapter house. Marvel at the incredible Romanesque and Gothic architecture, and visit the granary where sculpted masterpieces from the original abbey church are preserved. The experience paints a vivid picture of Cluny's cultural and spiritual influence throughout medieval Europe.

Wake up to gentle morning light as your ship glides into Vienne, a historic town nestled on the Rhône River just south of Lyon. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins and medieval charm, Vienne invites you to step ashore and discover centuries of rich heritage.

Scenic Freechoice:
Make your selection from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking tour of Vienne with Roman Theatre: Take a guided walking tour of Vienne and discover its rich Roman heritage, including the remarkable hillside theatre built for 10,000 spectators. Wander through the city’s gardens, ancient walls, cathedral, and historic Renaissance streets before enjoying free time to explore at your own pace.

Cycling tour of Vienne: Cycle through Vienne and Saint-Romain-en-Gal on an easy 19 km route, exploring the city’s Roman ruins and the famous temple of Augustus and Livia. Cross the Rhône River, visit nature-rich river islands, and spot mosaics at the Gallo-Roman museum before returning to town.

St-Joseph Côte-Rôtie wine tasting: Enjoy a private tasting of prestigious Condrieu and Saint-Joseph wines during a guided visit to a Chavanay vineyard. Discover the artistry, passion, and heritage that define this exceptional terroir.

Your ship will depart for Tournon later this afternoon. 

Arrive in the pretty town of Tournon early this morning. 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 morning 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.

This afternoon you will have some free time to explore the town on your own. Later, meet your fellow guests for an aperitif on the terrace of Tournon Castle and admire the sweeping views over the Rhône River and surrounding terraced vineyards, before returning to Scenic Sapphire for a dessert buffet of indulgent French pastries from a local pâtissier.

Dock in the ancient city of Avignon after lunch. 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. Circled 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:
Take your pick 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.

Kayaking at Pont du Gard: Be surrounded by the tranquil waters of the Gardon River. Paddle a kayak beneath the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard aqueduct, giving you a unique perspective on its grandeur.

Scenic Enrich
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.

Spend a full day in Avignon, soaking up more of its charms. It is known as the gateway to Provence, a region blanketed in vineyards and lavender fields, rolling hills and historic villages. Today you will have the chance to explore more of this captivating part of southern France.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of today’s Scenic Freechoice options:

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. (Please note: Sénanque Abbey is not open to visitors on Sundays. On these days, the tour will include only an exterior visit.)

Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Join your Scenic chef to visit the local market where you will shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Return to the ship for an interactive cooking demonstration at Scenic Culinaire cooking school, learning regional recipes. (Please note: Avignon Market is closed on a Monday).

Lavender Museum with visit to the village of Roussillon: Luberon is famous for its picturesque villages, lavender fields and ochre cliffs. Visit a local lavender producer to learn how it is grown, harvested and utilised in this region. Then take a guided tour of the beautiful village of Roussillon.

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.

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 ruins 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’s still in use today. Experience the vibrant colours and striking quality of light that has inspired many artists. (Please note: The Roman Amphitheatre is closed on Mondays and cannot be visited on this day).

Visit Les Baux with Carrières de Lumières: Journey to the stunning medieval village of Les Baux. Visit a former quarry that is now the site of Carrières de 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 olive 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 Provencal 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 lavender perfume to take home.

This afternoon is free to explore Arles at your own pace or return to your Scenic Space-Ship and join an on board painting class. Vincent Van Gogh once said “the whole future of art is to be found in the South of France”. Learn about the artistic heritage of this region while painting a masterpiece of your own.

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: Trace the layers of Viviers’ past, a peaceful riverside town shaped by moments of extraordinary drama. Walk through its storied streets to uncover how this quiet corner of the Rhône became a pivotal stage in the Battle of Montélimar, a 1944 clash that helped liberate southern France and is still studied at West Point today. Among the cobbled lanes and Renaissance façades, echoes of that struggle linger in the landscape and the memories of its people, telling a moving story of courage, endurance, and renewal along the Rhône.

Scenic Freechoice:
This afternoon, explore 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.

Explore the caves in the Ardèche Nature Park: Drive through the rugged natural beauty of Ardèche Nature Park, from the Ardèche Gorge to the Madeleine Caves, where you can admire the intricate rock formations, stalagmites and stalactites, and underground lakes. (The Madeline caves are located underground and comprise of numerous steps, a moderate degree of fitness and sturdy shoes are required for this tour).

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.

Enjoy a relaxed day on board as you cruise back towards Lyon, admiring the beautiful vistas of the Rhone River. Bask on the Sun Deck, soothe your muscles in the Salt Therapy Lounge or sharpen your skills with a French cookery lesson in Scenic Culinaire.

Scenic Enrich
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.

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 morning’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 Perouges: 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.

Board an included flight from Lyon to Bordeaux where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Diamond.

This morning is spent on board relaxing as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne.  

Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a World Heritage-listed medieval village with world-famous wineries, beautiful architecture and historic monuments. It’s also the birthplace of macarons.  

This evening your Scenic Space-Ship will be docked overnight in Libourne, a 13th-century city located at the confluence of the Dordogne and Isle rivers. 

Today you’ll have the opportunity to explore Libourne and its surrounding wine-growing region.

Scenic Freechoice:
Walking tour of Libourne: Join your local guide for a walking tour of Libourne, the fortified harbour town with a rich history linked to the trade of wool, wine, salt and wood.

Wines and vineyards of Saint-Emilion: Journey to the countryside of Saint Emilion for a wine tasting at one of the region’s most renowned château. Explore the property before tasting some of the estate exceptional wines.

Visit to Chateau de Vayres: Château de Vayres is a remarkable historic monument that showcases a fascinating blend of medieval, Renaissance and 17th-century architecture. Admire an impressive collection of tapestries and period furnishings, all brought to life through a guided tour giving insight into the château’s rich history and its role in regional power struggles.

Artisanal flour mill: Tour the machinery at a beautifully restored 19th century water mill on the Isle River and join a bread-making workshop.

This afternoon, relax on board as you sail towards Blaye. Toast the passing scenery with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar or spend time in the rejuvenating Salt Therapy Lounge. 

This morning you will arrive in Blaye. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect the city of Bordeaux from enemy attacks. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore with the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Walking tour of Blaye: Stroll through the charming city of Blaye with a local guide, a World Heritage-listed monument that overlooks the Gironde Estuary.

Active walking tour of Blaye: Tour the fascinating citadel of Blaye on an active walking tour with a local guide. Gain an understanding of the defence system created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban.

Scenic Enrich
Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d'Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Wander through the château and its gardens and soak in the ambiance of this magnificent property before a string quartet performs classical masterpieces for your enjoyment.

Wake up this morning in Fort Médoc, located between Bordeaux and Pointe de Grave, at the northern end of the Médoc winegrowing region. This appellation grows some of the world’s most famous and expensive wines, particularly cabernet sauvignon. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Médoc wine tasting by coach: Travel by coach through this scenic region to a local winery and enjoy a tasting.

Médoc wine tasting by bicycle: Discover the spectacular Médoc countryside by e-bike today and sample the region’s finest at one of the prestigious estates.

Back on board, enjoy lunch as you cruise to Bourg, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. This quiet village sits among many famous World Heritage-listed sites and, though it is just as charming, remains largely undiscovered by the masses.

Scenic Freechoice:
Bourg with Carriages Museum: Situated inside the grounds of Bourg Castle, visit the Carriages Museum with a local guide.

Guided cycling along the Captain’s Road: Join an active cycling tour along the Captain’s Road, a winding coastal road offers spectacular views, and is lined with old captains homesteads with floral gardens, small fishermen huts and of course some vineyards.

Visit a local estate: Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the Gironde while tasting Côtes de Bourg wines at a local winery.

This evening your ship will continue its journey towards Cadillac, stopping overnight in Bordeaux before sailing onward.

Departing Bordeaux early, your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise along the Garonne River to Cadillac. Founded in the 13th century, this charming, fortified city is centred around its magnificent château.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore with the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Sauternes by coach: Explore Sauternes by coach and enjoy a tasting of a chateaux fine wines.

Sauternes by bike: Cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes on an e-bike, whilst sampling local wines as you learn the fine art of grape harvesting and wine production.

Walking tour of Cadillac: Discover the medieval township of Cadillac with its narrow streets and its marketplace on a walking tour, followed by a visit to the chateau in the heart of the village.

Waking this morning in Bordeaux, you will have several options to explore this incredible city. Founded by the Celts around 300BC and became part of Julius Caesar’s Roman Empire in the 1st century. It has been an important trading port since the Middle Ages. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Guided tour of Bordeaux: Join your local guide on a tour of Bordeaux. Discover the highlights of the city, such as the magnificent Gothic cathedral and Place de la Bourse.

Cycling tour of Bordeaux: Pedal through historic Bordeaux on a guided cycling tour. Sample delicious treats such as the traditional canelé, a custard cake.

Shop with a chef: Join Scenic’s chef at a local food market to source the freshest local produce, before returning to the on board cooking school, Scenic Culinaire to learn the art of French fare.

This afternoon is at your leisure to wander the streets of Bordeaux. Spend your final hours in France wandering along the waterfront past 18th century buildings, make a beeline for the city’s Golden Triangle district for beautiful architecture and shopping, or visit La Cite du Vin, an interactive and sensory wine museum.

Your journey ends in beautiful Bordeaux. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux airport or train station for your onward journey, taking with you a lifetime of memories.

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.

Please note: The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne waterways are part of a tidal river system which results in changing water levels in the region. Every effort is made to keep to the brochure itinerary however based on tides it will be amended or modified. Please refer to our terms and conditions.