2026 Enchanting France inc. Viking Rhone River Cruise

Late this afternoon, we report to the airport and join the flight to Dubai.

We arrive in Dubai early this morning and after clearing Customs and Immigration formalities, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a two-night stay. There is time to rest up after the flight until mid-afternoon where we meet up to enjoy a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden. Each season, as the weather begins to cool at the onset of winter, the gates reopen. With more than 150 million flowers in full bloom, this 72,000-sq-m paradise has flowered into one of the region’s most picturesque, sweet-scented destinations for more than a decade now. There is time for exploration at the garden, before we return to the hotel for dinner this evening.

We start our day with a visit to the Museum of the Future. One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the museum takes pride of place along the city’s superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and launched on 22 February 2022, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a ‘living museum’, it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future’s limitless possibilities. Visitors have the chance to engage with this game-changing technology. Each floor of the museum is designed like an expansive, interactive movie set, brought to life by expert storytellers, technologists and visionary artists. Early afternoon, we return to the hotel to relax. The remainder of the day is at leisure, until we meet up again for dinner this evening.

An early morning transfer to the airport where we join the 7-hour flight to Nice. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 2-night stay. We enjoy a city tour en route to the hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure until we meet up for dinner this evening.

On today’s tour, we venture to Eze, a beautiful hilltop town founded in Medieval times and famous for its location overlooking the French Riviera, between Monaco and Nice. It was fortified in the 1300s by The House of Savoy and over the years the area has passed hands between Italy and France multiple times. Its many shops, art galleries, hotels and restaurants attract a large number of tourists and honeymooners. As a result, Èze has become dubbed by some a village-musée, a “museum village”, as few residents of local origin live here. We will visit the Fragonard Perfumery and enjoy a tour of the factory including a visit to the cosmetics laboratory where the brand’s creams and other skin care products are made. Returning to Nice in the afternoon, the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Departing Nice this morning, we drive to Cannes and enjoy a tour of this resort town, famous for The Cannes Film Festival.  Its Boulevard de la Croisette, curving along the coast, is lined with sandy beaches, upmarket boutiques and palatial hotels. We continue our drive to Marseille via the stunning Corniche d’Or, offering breathtaking coastal views and one of the most scenic roads in the world, often compared to the Via Aurelia in Italy, or to the Pacific Coast Highway in California, USA. On arrival in in Marseille, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, featuring Mediterranean flavours before embarking on a tour of Marius Fabre soap factory and its production workshops. We check in to our hotel for our overnight stay and meet for dinner later this evening.

Enjoy a leisurely start to the day before we depart Marseille late morning and travel through the picturesque landscapes of Provence, en route to the historic city of Avignon. On arrival, we enjoy an orientation tour and lunch, before embarking on our river ship, which will be our home for the next 7 nights.

Experience the celebrated city of Arles, where Roman ruins and vibrant colours have inspired artists. On our included excursion, we will explore by foot, allowing you to immerse yourself in this energetic city of diverse architecture at the edge of Provence. Begin with a stroll to the massive Les Arènes, an ancient amphitheatre able to seat 20,000. Continue to the Antique Theatre, peering inside as you pass. This 1st-century wonder stood three stories tall and seated 10,000. Follow the Rue du Cloître to the Place de la République, a bustling square that once hosted the ancient Roman Circus. Here, you will see the 15th-century Church of St. Trophime, a Romanesque triumph named for a 3rd-century bishop. A walk down the Rue de la République delivers you to the Espace Van Gogh, the local hospital that treated the artist and today serves as a cultural centre.

When the Catholic Church acquired Avignon during the 1300s, it quickly transformed the quiet riverside village into a major religious and cultural centre. Evidence of the makeover is everywhere. In addition to the enormous palace, the church constructed a wall around Avignon and provided mansion-like residences to its cardinals. Avignon Cathedral was dwarfed by its neighbour, the Palace of the Popes. Centuries after the papacy returned to Rome, the Vatican called for a gilded statue of Mary to be placed atop the cathedral; her golden gaze still welcomes visitors today. We’ll join a local guide on our complimentary excursion and follow the historic centre of narrow streets to the Place de l’Horloge, the city’s central square, a scene of balconies, elegant facades and shading trees. Continue to the renowned Palace of the Popes for a guided tour, before we return to our ship in the afternoon.

The sleepy town of Viviers was founded during the 5th century. This former Roman settlement became a bishop’s seat, and conflicts during ensuing centuries required the town to be fortified. With the Renaissance came a more stable period of wealth that allowed many new houses to be built, including a fine example of the era that still stands, the Maison des Chevaliers. Some buildings date back to the Middle Ages, and time seems to stand still along the cobblestone streets of its Old Town, dominated by the 12th-century St. Vincent Cathedral with its beautiful windows. On our included excursion, we join a local guide who knows the town intimately for a delightful stroll that brings out its peaceful ambience. Amble along its picturesque sycamore-lined avenue, linger for a spell in the Place de la Roubine and see the Maison des Chevaliers, or Knights’ House, a Renaissance treasure that stands as the oldest house in town. Along the way, you will also see the smallest cathedral in France, the 11th-century St. Vincent Cathedral, standing meditatively in the town square.

Tournon lies secluded between the river and the vineyard-blanketed granite slopes that nurture fine vintages. An ancient castle, built snugly into a rock, overlooks the riverside setting. A settlement has perched on this hill since Celtic times, but the stunning views from its overlook have never changed. On our included excursion, wet raverse one of France’s most picturesque corners during a train excursion into the wilds of the Doux Valley. After lunch, we arrive in Vienne. Situated between France’s Burgundy and Beaujolais regions, Vienne is the gateway to Lyon’s countryside. It is one of the oldest towns in France, with a history that can be traced through its architecture. Among its Roman remains and artifacts, the Roman Temple of Augustus & Livia dates back to the 1st century AD. Get to know Vienne and its rich Roman past during a leisurely included walking tour.

Lyon straddles the Rhône and Saône Rivers. After Paris, it is considered the country’s most significant cultural centre. During our included excursion, we see the magnificent highlights  – beginning with a drive to the Basilica of Notre Dame, at the top of Fourvière Hill. After exploring the interior of this spectacular church, enjoy sweeping views of the red roofs of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) and the narrow peninsula of land between the rivers comprising the atmospheric Presqu’île shopping district. Next, drive through town past the flamboyant Gothic St. Jean Cathedral and the Palace of Justice, stopping at the city’s famed Painted Houses, a breathtaking collection of outdoor murals depicting some 30 of the city’s famous figures. Then, continue with a walking tour along the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, where the city’s famous traboules, unique hidden passageways made for busy merchants in medieval days, wend through buildings and courtyards. Later, you can shop for souvenirs, perhaps purchasing some of the fine silk for which Lyon is world famous.

Lyon is known as the food capital of France. It is not uncommon for well-heeled Parisians to travel to Lyon for dinner. The city is surrounded by towns and villages that produce excellent fresh produce, and gastronomic outlets are plentiful here. The great chefs of Lyon enjoy celebrity status, whether they prepare classic recipes the traditional way or elevate them with their own signature touches. Their delicious meals may be paired with a glass of light, fruity Beaujolais from the north or a bold Rhône red from the south. On our included excursion today, we discover why Beaujolais is one of France’s most beloved wine regions. It is larger than any single district of its neighbour, Burgundy. Vineyards stretch for four miles along the Saône, and the granite soils and warmer climate make it ideal for growing grapes that produce a light flavour. We join a local guide for a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Beaujolais, where viticultural tradition runs deep. Then, stop at a local village and enjoy a stroll as we learn about the art of winemaking. We also stop at one of Beaujolais’s famous cellars to enjoy a tasting with a wine expert.

It’s time to disembark this morning and farewell captain and crew. We join our coach and journey through to Beaune, weaving through the picturesque vineyards of Burgundy. Upon arrival, a delightful lunch in Beaune offers a taste of the region’s renowned cuisine, paired with local wines. We will visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu Hospices de Beaune, where we can marvel at its stunning Flemish architecture and rich history as a medieval charitable hospital, before enjoying a tour of the Fallot Mustard Mill, providing a deeper dive into Burgundy’s culinary heritage. We continue through to Dijon, where we overnight.

After breakfast, we depart our hotel and enjoy a city tour of Dijon. It is one of France’s most appealing cities – filled with elegant medieval and Renaissance buildings that hark back to the city’s 14^th and 15^th century heyday as the capital of the Duchy of Burgundy. With its compact and pedestrian-friendly centre, lively street scene and aesthetically pleasing ensemble of half-timbered houses and polychrome tile roofs, it is a wonderful city to explore. There is time for lunch, before we make our way to Château Marsannay located at the gates of Dijon city, in the heart of the vineyards, offering a magnificent view of the Clos de Jeu plot. We enjoy a tour of the cellars and a tasting of six wines to discover the complexity of the climats from Côte d’Or. Later, we rejoin our coach for the scenic journey through vineyards, rolling hills, and charming medieval villages. As the route transitions into Alsace, timber-framed houses and lush countryside set the stage for Colmar’s fairy-tale charm, with its pastel facades, flower-lined canals, and old-world ambiance. We arrive late afternoon and check in to our hotel. Dinner is at the hotel this evening.

The day begins with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, before we embark on a charming tour of Colmar aboard the tourist train, winding through the town’s cobblestone streets and past its colourful half-timbered houses, flower-lined canals, and historic landmarks. A delicious lunch follows, allowing guests to savour Alsatian flavours in a cozy local setting. There is some free time, perfect for exploring hidden corners, visiting boutiques, or simply soaking in Colmar’s fairy-tale ambiance before we transfer through to Strasbourg where we stay for 2-nights.

Strasbourg is full of history and culture and we enjoy a full day touring today. The tour begins in the heart of the city at Place Kléber, Strasbourg’s lively central square, before heading to the awe-inspiring Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece with intricate stone carvings and an astronomical clock. Visitors marvel at its towering spire and can climb to the top for breathtaking views of the city. Strolling through the charming streets of La Petite France, we can admire the district’s half-timbered houses, picturesque canals, and medieval bridges, all reflecting Strasbourg’s enchanting Alsatian character. The tour continues along the Ill River, passing the historic Covered Bridges and the Vauban Dam, offering stunning panoramic views. A visit to the elegant Palais Rohan reveals the grandeur of Strasbourg’s aristocratic past, with its fine museums dedicated to art, archaeology, and decorative arts. Finally, the tour concludes in the European Quarter, home to the European Parliament and Council of Europe, highlighting Strasbourg’s role as a political and cultural hub.  The remainder of the day is at yours until we meet for dinner this evening.

Leaving behind Strasbourg’s medieval charm, the coach meanders through rolling vineyards and quaint villages, where half-timbered houses and church steeples dot the countryside. The terrain gently transitions from Alsace’s lush, forested hills to the golden-hued vineyards of Champagne, stretching endlessly under the open sky. Passing through historic towns and winding country roads, we will catch glimpses of grand châteaux and traditional wine estates, hinting at the rich viticultural heritage of the region. Upon arrival in Aÿ, the heart of Champagne country, we enjoy lunch and explore the Pressoria Museum. Discover the wine of kings through your five senses – observe, touch, smell, listen, and taste… we explore Pressoria’s immersive and interactive journey at our own pace. We enjoy an overnight stay in the attractive village of Mutigny.

The day begins with a guided city tour of Reims, the coronation city of French kings, where history and grandeur unfold at every turn. A visit to the Notre-Dame de Reims Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece adorned with intricate stained glass and soaring spires, offers a glimpse into the past, where monarchs were once crowned. Our journey continues to Chantilly, a town renowned for its fairytale-like château and rich equestrian heritage. Upon arrival, a guided visit of the Château de Chantilly reveals opulent interiors, priceless art collections, and the fascinating legacy of the French nobility. We will explore the Grand Stables, a magnificent 18th-century structure housing the Living Museum of the Horse, offering insight into the town’s deep equestrian traditions. Our day’s touring concludes with a leisurely ride on the little train, winding through the château’s stunning park and gardens, designed by the legendary André Le Nôtre. With serene lakes, manicured lawns, and picturesque pathways, the tour provides a perfect ending to a day steeped in history, culture, and elegance.

Today we journey to Giverny, where the enchanting world of Claude Monet comes to life. Upon arrival, visitors step into the Monet House and Gardens, a masterpiece of colour and harmony that inspired the artist’s most famous works. Strolling through the lush flower gardens and the iconic Japanese water garden, with its lily-covered pond and arched bridge, feels like stepping into an Impressionist painting. After time for lunch, our the journey continues to Honfleur, a picturesque port town on the Normandy coast. Along the way, a stop in Étretat offers the chance to admire its breathtaking white chalk cliffs, towering dramatically above the turquoise waters of the English Channel. The stunning rock formations, shaped by time and tide, have captivated artists and writers for centuries. We check into our hotel and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant this evening.

The day begins with a guided city tour of Honfleur, a picturesque port town where half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and a bustling marina create an atmosphere straight out of a painting. We explore the Vieux Bassin (Old Harbor), admire the wooden Sainte-Catherine Church, and soak in the maritime charm that has long inspired artists. Following time for lunch, we visit a local orchard, where we learn about Normandy’s cider-making tradition, followed by a delicious tasting of locally made cider and artisanal Norman cheeses, a perfect pairing of the region’s flavours. Our day concludes with a scenic transfer to Saint-Malo, where the rugged coastline and fortified walls of the historic privateer city await, promising a journey into Brittany’s seafaring past.

After checking out of our hotel, we enjoy a guided city tour of Saint-Malo, a historic walled city steeped in maritime heritage. Strolling along the ramparts, enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline and tidal islands. Inside the Intra-Muros (old town), cobbled streets lead to landmarks like the Saint-Malo Cathedral and bustling squares filled with shops and cafés. Stories of privateers, explorers, and naval conquests bring the city’s rich past to life. Our journey continues as we make our way to Tours, in the heart of the Loire Valley. Upon arrival, we enjoy a guided tour. Strolling through the historic Place Plumereau, we see timber-framed houses and lively cafés. A visit to the majestic Saint-Gatien Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic façade and intricate stained glass, highlights the city’s artistic and architectural splendour. We check in to our hotel and the remainder of the day is at leisure.

Today, we journey to Chambord. Here we step into the grandeur of the Château de Chambord, one of the most magnificent castles of the Loire Valley. A guided visit unveils its breathtaking Renaissance architecture, the iconic double-helix staircase attributed to Leonardo da Vinci, and the vast estate that once served as a royal hunting lodge. Wandering through its opulent halls and expansive grounds, visitors experience the sheer extravagance of French royalty. Following time for lunch, our journey continues as we watch the rolling countryside give way to the iconic elegance of the French capital. Upon arrival, we check in to our hotel with time at leisure, before we meet for dinner this evening.

Our day begins with a panoramic tour of Paris aboard our private coach, offering a sweeping introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks. From the majestic Eiffel Tower to the grand Champs-Élysées, the elegant Place de la Concorde, and the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral, every turn reveals a masterpiece of architecture and culture. Along the way, glimpses of the Seine River, charming bridges, and bustling Parisian life create an unforgettable tapestry of the city’s beauty. Following time for lunch, we visit the world-renowned Louvre Museum. Home to priceless treasures like the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo, the museum’s vast halls invite visitors to immerse themselves in centuries of art and history. As the perfect ending to this unforgettable trip, the evening features a farewell dinner-cruise on the Seine. Gliding past illuminated landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, and Notre-Dame, we will dine on exquisite French cuisine while toasting to the beauty and elegance of Paris. The soft glow of the city lights reflecting on the water creates a magical atmosphere, ensuring a truly memorable farewell to the City of Light.

Time to farewell Paris and Europe this morning as we are transferred to the airport in time to join our late morning flight to Dubai. Arrival time is late evening and overnight accommodation is reserved at the airport.

Time for the last leg of our journey on our flight home.

Arrival time is mid-morning.