Scenic Sapphire July 23-August 12 2027 Cruise & Offers | Scenic Cruises

Welcome to France and the ancient city of Lyon. France’s third largest city is its gastronomic capital, promising a blend of fascinating history and a sophisticated dining and shopping scene. Upon arrival, transfer to Scenic Sapphire, where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board. Spend the afternoon exploring your Scenic Space-Ship.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Vienne today. Boasting a 2,000-year history, this city is brimming with Roman history, including a terraced theatre, first century temple, ancient baths and the Vienne Pyramid, which was the site of the Roman circus where chariot races would have been held.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. Tournon is a published destination on Normandy & Gems of the Seine & Spectacular South of France: Lyon to Paris aboard Scenic Sapphire.

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.

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.

Stay in Mâcon this morning to discover more of the region’s gourmet delights and dramatic architecture. Mâcon is a published destination on Normandy & Gems of the Seine & Spectacular South of France: Lyon to Paris aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Transfer by rail from Lyon to Paris where you will embark the Scenic Gem for your 10 night cruise along the Seine River. Lyon > Paris is a published destination on Normandy & Gems of the Seine & Spectacular South of France: Lyon to Paris aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as you cruise gently along the Seine to Les Andelys. This exquisite waterside village dates back almost 900 years and is resplendent with well-preserved Norman-era houses and exquisite public buildings and overlooked by the imposing ruins of King Richard the Lionheart’s castle, Château Gaillard.

Normandy’s capital, Rouen, has a history that spans over 2,000 years, from Viking legends to its significant role in both World Wars. It was also the place where Richard the Lionheart was crowned Duke of Normandy and Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake.

With another full day in Rouen today, you can uncover some of the region’s fascinating military history or explore its artistic legacy. Rouen is a published destination on Normandy & Gems of the Seine & Spectacular South of France: Lyon to Paris aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Enjoy another relaxed morning on board as we cruise west to Honfleur, a colourful port city on the edge of the English Channel. Over the years the town has captured the imaginations of countless artists and was the birthplace of Impressionism.

With a full day in Honfleur, this is your opportunity to learn more about the important role this region played in WWII. Your central docking location allows shorter transfers to today's activities for a more seamless experience. Honfleur is a published destination on Normandy & Gems of the Seine & Spectacular South of France: Lyon to Paris aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Begin cruising inland early this morning to the small town of Caudebec-en-Caux. Set on a curve of the Seine, the riverfront is lined with handsome homes, stately gardens and crumbling stone walls. Caudebec-en-Caux dates back to the Middle Ages and a handful of historic buildings survived the bombardments of WWII, including the ornate 15th century Notre Dame Caudebec-en-Caux.

Historically a border town between the Duchy of Normandy and the Kingdom of France, Vernon has a rich heritage and many distinctive buildings. Nearby Giverny was the home of Impressionist artist Claude Monet for more than 40 years.

Wake this morning in Conflans-Saint-Honorine, a Medieval town located at the confluence of the River Seine and Oise. Though it’s just a short distance from the centre of the city, it feels a world away. A castle was built here by monks in the 9th century to protect the relics of Saint Honorine, from whom the town gets its name.

Welcome back to Paris, where you will spend the day uncovering this iconic city. First timers may prefer the highlights tour, which allows you to visit renowned sites such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, while those rediscovering Paris may wish to explore the trendy Marais District or Opera Garnier, an opulent architectural masterpiece built in the 19th century.

Your journey concludes this morning. Disembark after breakfast, taking with you many wonderful memories of this unique part of France. Transfer to Paris airport or train station for your onward journey. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water.