Scenic Sapphire October 19-November 8 2027 Cruise & Offers | Scenic Cruises

Welcome to France and the ancient city of Lyon, often called the ‘Food Capital of the World’. Lyon is surrounded by two iconic wine regions – Burgundy to the north and the Rhône Valley to the south. Upon arrival, transfer to Scenic Sapphire where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board.

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 southern most point of your journey, Arles is just a few kilometres from the Mediterranean Sea. Founded by Julius Ceasar more than 2,000 years ago, the city is home to the largest number of Roman ruins outside of Rome itself.

Wake in the ancient city of Avignon. Known as the ‘City of the Popes’, it is home to the World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), the former papal residence in the 14th century when Rome was in turmoil. Avignon is surrounded by wine regions on all sides, with the Rhône Valley to the north and Provence to the south.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise north overnight, arriving in Viviers early this morning. Founded in the fifth century, the city is often described as an open-air museum. Wandering its narrow, zig-zagging lanes, you will feel as though little has changed in the past 1,600 years.

Arrive in the charming 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. Tournon is at the centre of the northern Rhône Valley wine region, famous for producing the best Syrah in the world.

Return to Lyon today. France’s culinary capital sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. The city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants – including 20 that hold Michelin stars. Learn more about its rich history, dating back to the days of the Romans, or discover one of the region’s surrounding villages

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 picturesque 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 wines.

Stay in Mâcon this morning to discover more of the region’s gourmet delights and dramatic architecture. Mâcon is a published destination on Iconic France: Lyon to Bordeaux aboard Scenic Sapphire. It provides the setting for this stage of the journey; arrival, departure, berthing and excursion details are displayed only when they appear...

Board an included flight from Lyon to Bordeaux where you will be welcomed on board by the friendly crew of the Scenic Diamond. Lyon > Bordeaux is a published destination on Iconic France: Lyon to Bordeaux aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Admire the tranquil riverside scenery as you cruise towards Libourne this morning. After lunch, join a tour to nearby Saint-Émilion. This World Heritage-listed village has thousands of years of history and beautifully preserved medieval buildings. Explore the unique Monolithic Church, which is mostly underground and carved directly into the limestone.

Wake early this morning to enjoy the tranquil landscapes. Today, spend some time exploring Libourne and its surrounds. Libourne > Pauillac is a published destination on Iconic France: Lyon to Bordeaux aboard Scenic Sapphire. It provides the setting for this stage of the journey; arrival, departure, berthing and excursion details are displayed...

Set on the Gironde estuary at the heart of the Médoc wine route, Pauillac is surrounded by some of the best vineyards in Bordeaux. The town itself is quiet with elegant architecture that speaks to its powerful past in the winemaking industry.

Relax on board as you cruise towards Cadillac. You could enjoy a massage^ treatment or learn more about French cuisine in the Scenic Culinaire cooking demonstration. Cadillac was founded in 1280 and retains many of its grand historic buildings.

Cadillac is close to the Sauternes wine region, which is known for its sweet, fortified styles. Today, choose between a variety of experiences in the region surrounding Cadillac, from its peaceful countryside to its historic castles. With a full day here, you have the option to choose multiple excursions.

You’ll return to Bordeaux City today to discover more of its culinary and cultural delights. Foodies will relish the opportunity to visit a local market with a Scenic chef before an interactive demonstration on board in Scenic Culinaire. There are also options for military buffs and active travellers.

Continue your exploration of Bordeaux today with a variety of intriguing options. The moniker 'Sleeping Beauty' or La Belle Endormie was given to Bordeaux when industry was moved to the outskirts and the city was all but abandoned. In the late 20th century, the city was revived and restored to its former glory.

Your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship will be docked in Bourg today, a picturesque town set on a rocky promontory. It began life as a defensive château in the 12th century and has expanded over the centuries. Today, it’s a maze of ancient alleyways, moats and bell towers on the banks of the Dordogne.

This morning you will arrive in Blaye, set at a strategic position on the confluence of the Dordogne and Garonne rivers. Most famously, this petite hamlet is home to a World Heritage-listed citadel that was constructed to protect Bordeaux city from enemy attacks.

Your cruise concludes this morning in Bordeaux. Disembark after breakfast, taking with you a lifetime of memories. Please note: The Gironde, Dordogne and Garonne waterways are part of a tidal river system which results in changing water levels in the region.