DAY 3 | MÂCON (BEAUNE):
Burgundy's pace of life is decidedly more relaxed. Endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the vine. The region’s wine tregion'sital, Beaune, is renowned for its history, beauty, and highly prized wine. It also has a medieval-era hospital, the Hospices de Beaune.

Featured Excursion: Burgundy Landscapes, Beaune, and the Hospices. Beaune may not be a large town, but it has history, a wealth of splendid regional architecture, and incredible food. Nestled inside medieval ramparts, Beaune was the seat of the warlike dukes of Burgundy until the 16th century. It is best known for two magnificent sights: the Hospices de Beaune and the open-air market.

DAY 4 | TAIN-L’HERMITAGE (TOURNON): 
If you love fine wine, you'll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-’Hermitage. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring events took place here: A castle was raised on the hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and new fortifications were added over the centuries, including two "new" towers built to defend against Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You'll see the handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants and garrison officers when you walk through the Rue de Doux area and pass the 14th-century church and the oldest secondary school in France.

Choice of Tournon and Tain-l'Hermitage Twin Villages Stroll with Wine Tasting or "Let's Go" Hermitage Terrace Vineyards Hike with Wine Tasting.

DAY 5 | VIVIERS: 
An enchanting village where time seems to have stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied past that goes back more than 1,600 years—and a splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time, Viviers was divided along religious lines—the clergy lived in the upper part of the town, and the laity lived in the lower part. Your exploration of the town will take you through both parts as you begin at the crest and make your way to the riverbank.

Featured Excursion: Village Day - Ardèches. A local expert will show you the fountain squares in the Old Town, which combine Roman and medieval influences and cobblestone lanes so narrow you can stand in the middle and touch the medieval houses on either side. Viviers climbs a hill crowned by 12th-century St. Vincent’s Cathedral. View the smallest cathedral in France before meeting some local residents.

DAY 6 | AVIGNON: 
The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore— including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. You’ll see the Palace of the Popes and much more today, or have the chance to visit a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct. A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening on the SS Catherine.

Choice of Avignon Walking Tour with Palace of the Popes, or Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct Visit

DAY 7 | ARLES: 
Explore a sun-drenched Provençal town today with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. It was here that the Romans built their first bridge across the Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between Italy and Spain.

Featured Excursion: Arles Walking Tour.

DAY 8 | ARLES (DISEMBARK): 
Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to the Marseille Airport for your flight home.