Full Itinerary
B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner, R = Reception
Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Friday, October 22, 2027
Day 2: Arrive in Lyon, France – Embarkation
Saturday, October 23, 2027 (R,D)
Upon arrival to Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport an Orbridge representative will be waiting to assist with your transfer to the river ship.
The Emerald Liberté is a masterpiece of luxury cruising. This floating haven features spacious and elegantly appointed staterooms and impeccably designed public spaces. As embarkation begins take time to unpack and become familiar with your accommodations.
This evening gather with fellow travel companions for a welcome reception and dinner—a delightful introduction to the camaraderie and cuisine that will accompany you throughout the journey.
Emerald Liberté
Day 3: Lyon
Sunday, October 24, 2027 (B,L,D)
Following breakfast take the opportunity to become deeply acquainted with this beautiful city during an immersive guided tour—a sensory and visual journey through history, art and gastronomy. Lyon's architectural gems have been well-preserved, providing an abundance of ancient Roman ruins and early Christian sites to explore.
Descend into the heart of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its well-preserved Renaissance buildings, narrow cobblestone streets and traboules—hidden passageways linking buildings by vaulted corridors and courtyards.
A gentle ascent to Fourvière Hill provides breathtaking panoramic views of Lyon and the convergence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. The Basilica atop the hill is an architectural marvel with stunning views over the city and prime photography opportunities.
Continue to Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, a Mecca of culinary excellence. Named in honor of the legendary French chef Paul Bocuse, this colorful three-story indoor market is a foodie's haven, offering a treasure trove of premium artisanal products and gourmet delights. Bocuse's influence is evident in the emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and the celebration of Lyon's rich gastronomic traditions. Explore the variety of vendor stalls including cheesemakers, bakers and pastry chefs, gardeners and butchers—spanning more than three acres.
After lunch at a cozy bistro, travel into the Beaujolais countryside known as Pierres Dorées (Golden Stones), named for its structures built from a type of limestone that reflects light. Arrive to a beautiful winery for a relaxing wine tasting.
Emerald Liberté
Day 4: Mâcon
Monday, October 25, 2027 (B,L,D)
This morning explore the Royal Monastery of Brou at Bourg-en-Bresse. Built between 1506 and 1532 by Margaret of Austria in honor of her husband, Philibert the Fair, Duke of Savoy, the church is a flamboyant Gothic masterpiece. Stained-glass windows, restored varnished roof tiles and a rich selection of tombs, statues and sculptures make the monastery an exceptional museum showcasing 16th-century Flemish art and design. Stroll through the exhibition rooms, refectory and cloisters.
This afternoon embrace leisure time on board. Take a dip in the pool, relax in the lounge or visit the sun deck to capture the panoramic landscape passing by.
Emerald Liberté
Day 5: Tournon-sur-Rhône
Tuesday, October 26, 2027 (B,L,D)
After a leisurely morning and afternoon on board, set off on a guided walking tour of Tournon-sur-Rhône. This storybook village is known for its terraced vineyards, grandiose architecture and pedestrian-friendly old town.
Continue to La Cité du Chocolat Valrhona, a chocolate producer dedicated to ecological awareness, sustainability and responsible manufacturing. Their innovative facility offers guests an immersive sensory experience through virtual chocolate plantation visits, tastings, and hands-on workshops and activities.
Emerald Liberté
Day 6: Viviers • Grignan
Wednesday, October 27, 2027 (B,L,D)
Following breakfast disembark for a scenic drive through mountain vistas and lavender fields, arriving at a truffle farm near Grignan where the treasures referred to as “black diamonds” are abundant.
During a tour learn about the canines specially bred to sniff out these black and white delicacies, and watch a demonstration of the seeking and retrieval methods. Conclude the visit with a truffle oil tasting.
This afternoon enjoy an enlightening experience at the Lavender House estate and museum featuring a guided tour through lavender fields aboard the Little Lavender Train and a brief documentary presentation. Continue to the Still Room and Scent Room, see an exhibition of antique agricultural tools and machinery plus a demonstration of lavender essential oil distillation, followed by time to walk through the botanical garden.
Emerald Liberté
Day 7: Avignon
Thursday, October 28, 2027 (B,L,D)
After breakfast join a guide for a panoramic walking tour through Avignon including an inside visit to the lavish Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), one of the world’s most fascinating examples of Gothic architecture. This all-in-one fortress, church and palace was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century as seven popes resided in the impressive structure between 1309 to 1377. Afterward see the ruins of Pont d’Avignon, the Petit Palais art museum and Avignon Cathedral with its ramparts and gardens.
This afternoon features an optional excursion through the bucolic countryside to visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape, a prestigious village of the Côtes du Rhône. This location's ancient history, diversity of soils and remarkable climate make it a destination highlight for people passionate about wine. Arrive at a the historic Maison Bouachon to meet with a sommelier for an in-depth wine tasting experience (additional fee applies).
Alternatively explore Avignon independently or relax on board the ship.
Emerald Liberté
Day 8: Avignon • Arles
Friday, October 29, 2027 (B,L,D)
A city steeped in history, Arles was once a major trade center of the Roman Empire before becoming part of the Kingdom of the Franks, and later the capital of the Kingdom of Burgundy. During a guided panoramic walking tour see Arles' famous monuments including the Roman arena and theater, and the Romanesque Church of Saint-Trophime.
This afternoon tour an artisanal olive oil mill where the proprietors will demonstrate their time-honored techniques and share the unique flavors they infuse in their gourmet oils.
Enjoy a relaxing scenic drive through the countryside as you return to the ship.
This evening gather for a special Captain's Gala Dinner to commemorate your time exploring this beautiful region of France.
Emerald Liberté
Day 9: Arles – Disembarkation • Marseille • Depart for U.S.
Saturday, October 30, 2027 (B)
After breakfast guests departing during the suggested times take a complimentary transfer to the airport for flights home.
(Itinerary subject to change.)
