Be met on arrival in Barcelona and transferred to your hotel. Enjoy time at leisure, before tonight’s Welcome Reception.
Stay: Three Nights: Barcelona, Le Méridien
Day 2. Barcelona Sightseeing
Today take an incredible tour, including the Temple Expiatori de la Sagrada Família. Then enjoy a funicular ride up Montjuïc Hill for a private tour of Castello Montjuïc, an ancient fort. Tonight, experience delicious Spanish cuisine with a Welcome Dinner of tapas.
Daily Meals Included: • Breakfast • Dinner
Day 3. Barcelona at Leisure
Enjoy a full day to explore Barcelona at leisure. Later, you may like to join an optional dinner show featuring flamenco dancers (own expense).
Daily Meal Included: • Breakfast
Day 4. Barcelona, Arles, Embark
Today, travel to Arles, calling at Perpignan on the way. On arrival, your cruise of the beautiful Rhône begins. Tonight enjoy a Welcome Dinner.
Stay: Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the ms Amadagio
Daily Meals Included: • Breakfast • Dinner
Day 5. Arles, Les Baux - Avignon
In Arles, take a walking tour to see the Roman sights of the city, before visiting the village of Les Baux and touring an olive farm.
Day 6. Avignon, Freedom of Choice Touring, Grignan, Viviers
Today in Avignon, perhaps take a tour of the historic Papal Palace, or see the Pont du Gard. Take an excursion to Grignan, and, tonight, enjoy a ‘ghost walk’ in abandoned Viviers.
Enjoy a choice of gourmet activities in Tournon today. Visit a goat farm for a tour, and savour goat’s cheese during a tasting, or sample wines at Rhône Valley winery.
Cruise to the pretty town of Vienne this morning. Disembark and take a mini train-ride to see the first century Roman Temple of Augustus, and the medieval churches of St Andre-Le-Bas and Abbey St Pierre.
Today, a morning tour takes you through the beautiful Beaujolais region. Visit a vineyard in this famous wine-producing province and sample the world-renowned Beaujolais wine.
Depart for Basel today. On the way, stop at the beautiful Lake Geneva region, and travel via Gruyères for a tour and tasting of the famous Swiss cheese.
Stay: Seven Nights: APT’s luxurious Aria Class ship - the ms Amacello
Daily Meals Included: • Breakfast • Dinner
Day 12. Breisach, Freedom of Choice Touring Colmar/Black Forest
Today, choose between a city tour of Colmar in France or a tour through the famous Black Forest region of Germany.
This morning your ship will leave the Rhine and turn onto the Moselle River, a winding and picturesque waterway. Enjoy a morning of stunning views as the scenery of the spectacular Moselle Valley drifts by. In the town of Cochem, visit Reichsburg Castle and absorb stunning views over the river below.
This morning, disembark your ship and travel to Paris aboard the stylish, high-speed Thalys train.
Stay: Three Nights: Paris, Hilton Arc de Triomphe
Daily Meal Included: • Breakfast
Day 19. Paris, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today, tour the sights of Paris with a range of included options. With this evening at leisure, perhaps enjoy dinner and a show at the Moulin Rouge (own expense).
Daily Meal Included: • Breakfast
Day 20. Paris at Leisure
Today is at leisure. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner cruise along the Seine and take a spectacular Paris Illuminations Tour.
Daily Meals Included: • Breakfast • Dinner
Day 21. Depart Paris
After breakfast your tour concludes with a transfer to the airport.
Daily Meal Included: • Breakfast
ARIA Class Ships sailing on this itinerary:
MS AmaDolce - Launched 2009
MS AmaLyra - Launched 2009
MS AmaDante - Launched 2008
MS AmaCello - Launched 2008
MS AmaLegro - Launched 2007
MS AmaDagio - Launched 2006
* Ports of call may vary based on itinerary and departure dates selected
Cabin Pricing
Ports
Barcelona
Explore Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia, and you’ll discover the ornately wrought works of Antonio Gaudi. A local architect, whose works culminate in the surrealistic spires of the yet to be finished Sagrada Familia. Take a stroll down the colourful Ramblas. Explore the Gothic Quarter. Ride a cable car to the summit of Montjuic. Or sample local wines and authentic tapas as you watch the hustle and bustle of daily life pass you by.
Country - Spain Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from port to Airport - 12kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Las Ramblas, La Safrada Familia, Museo Picasso
Arles
Enjoying more than 300 days of sunshine a year Arles is regarded as the land of light. Both Picasso and Cezanne tested their artistic flair in Arles but it was Vincent Van Gogh who completely fell in love with this region and created over 200 pieces in just one year. Despite Van Gogh creating so many of masterpieces in Arles none of his works have remained in the area.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 35kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Van Gogh Foundation, Bullfighting Arena, Roman Baths
Avignon
Take your time wandering about the streets of Avignon, The ancient streets, the courtyards of the private mansions, the renovated facades will all charm you! One of the most elegant streets is the rue Joseph Vernet, adjacent to the Calvet museum and the Requien Museum. Don't miss the Antiquaire quarter, the Place de l'Horloge or the Chemin de Ronde which will take you to the Rocher des Doms. From the top of the ramparts you can understand why the site was chosen for a fort: Avignon stands high above the immense plains of the Rhône River and is the strategic point of the whole valley.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 8kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest
Palace of the Popes, Opera House, Museum of Painting and Sculpture, Pont d'Avignon
Viviers
Viviers consists of a lower town, where tradesmen and artisans once lived, and an upper or religious town that was the seat of a bishop during the Middle Ages and the Renaissance The upper walled town is an attractive warren of narrow cobbled streets with stone houses, a cathedral, and a castle terrace that offers spectacular views of the rooftops and river below.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 85kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest The House of the Knights, Roman Bridge, The Tower of the Michaelmas
Tournon
A pretty town with wide tree-lined avenues it is proud of its historical heritage and 11th-16th-century chateau which houses a museum of local history. To the north of the Grand Rue on Place St Julien lies Collegiale St Julien with its imposing bell tower. It serves as an example of the Italian influence on architecture in the area in the 14th-century.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport -92kms Currency - Euros (EUR)
Places of Interest Collegiale St Julien, Vallee du Doux
Vienne
No other city in the Rhône Valley offers such a concentration of architectural history as Vienne. Located in a natural basin of land between the river and the hills, this site was recognised for both its strategic and aesthetic advantages by the Romans, who vastly expanded the existing village when they invaded the area in the 1st century BC.Vienne was known in Roman times as 'Vienne the Beautiful', possibly due to the fact that its riverside position on the East bank of the Rhône made it a major port for wine. The wine in this region is outstanding and Romans may have enjoyed a glass or two while watching the evening's entertainment at one of the town's two theatres.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 25kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Roman Theatre, Temple d'Auguste et Livie, Le Palais Ideal
Lyon
Two thousand years of history have left their mark on the cityscape. Lyon's rich heritage resources reflect the different eras and tell the story of the city. Lyon's listing by UNESCO as a World Heritage site gives recognition to two exceptional features: "continuity of urban development" -the listed site covers a territory of 500 hectares (1235 acres) where the entire history of the city can be seen, from the founding of the Roman city of Lugdunum. And as "an outstanding illustration of city planning over the centuries" in this continually populated and active territory.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 7kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Lyon National Opera House, Tete d'Or Park, Fourviere Hill, Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon)
Basel
Basel is by far the art and architecture capital of Switzerland. Its 40 museums, covering an area of almost 37 km2, can be easily reached on foot, mostly by strolling through romantic lanes and alleys in the Old Town. The finest and oldest art collection is housed in the Kunstmuseum Basel, as is “Schaulager” - a space for modern art - which was opened in 2003. The Fondation Beyeler, which is well worth a visit, is famous far beyond the limits of Basel - not only for the highly acclaimed special exhibitions, but also for the impressive building designed by architect Renzo Piano.
Country - Switzerland Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 6.5kms Currency - Swiss Franc (CHF)
Places of Interest Market Square, Town Hall, Basel Zoo, Cathedral, Fondation Beyeler Art Museum, Old Town
Colmar
Colmar is a historical town with much history stepping back to Middle Ages as reflected by the well-preserved buildings from that era and forms a major part of the Alsace region in history and tourism.
Country - France Distance from port to City - 1km Distance from port to Airport - 400kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Maison des Tetes, Dominican Church, St Martin Church
Speyer
The old imperial city of Speyer was a bishopric and boasts a Romanesque cathedral with six imposing towers and the finest and largest crypt in Germany. Four Holy Roman Emperors and four German Kings are buried in the impressive Royal Vault.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 98kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Great Romanesque Cathedral, City Centre
Rudesheim
Rudesheim sits at the entrance to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. If you come from the direction of Frankfurt or Mainz, it is one of the first major tourist towns you'll reach along the Rhine River. Rudesheim makes a good base for exploring the entire Rhine Valley, which is the home of famous wines, medieval villages and beautiful scenery.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 55kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Drosselgasse, Niederwald Monument, Rheingau Wine Museum, Asbach Brandy Distillery, Medieval Torture Museum, Bird of Prey Zoo, Jagdschloss, Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet
Cochem
Cochem is a town in western Germany and is the capital of the district Cochem-Zell. It is situated in the valley of the Mosel, at the foot of a hill surrounded by a feudal castle, the Reichsburg, dating from 1051. The town is surrounded by vineyards.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - <1km Distance from port to Airport - 100kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Reichsburg Castle, wine tasting, Senfmühle mustard mill, Pinnerkreuz Mountain, Mosel-Wein-Express train, Klotten Wildlife and Leisure Park, Schlagkamp-Desoye Win Museum, Senheim Sculpture Park
Koblenz
Situated in the picturesque landscape of the Rhine and Moselle and surrounded by four low mountain ranges is the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz. Its abundance of cultural monuments and historic buildings, its cosy lanes and narrow alleyways, the relaxed and happy atmosphere of its squares and river promenades make Koblenz a friendly town where guests feel right at home.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 116kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest German Corner, Empress Augusta Gardens, Theatre and Obelisk, Beethoven Memorial, Museum of Military Technology, The Wine Village
Cologne
The city's very name bears witness to its Roman past as the town of Colonia. As well as the legacy from Roman times and the Middle Ages, particularly the world-famous cathedral, Cologne has an extremely lively arts and culture scene. And besides being a centre of carnival activity and the "capital of Rhenish joie de vivre", Cologne is also an extremely attractive trade fair centre. Open, friendly and uncomplicated: that's Cologne!
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 16kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Cologne Cathedral, Philharmonic Hall, Zoo
Amsterdam
Take a boat ride along Amsterdam’s charming canals past sturdy old houses and under quaint bridges. Visit one of the city’s superb museums housing many of the Dutch Masters’ most outstanding works or learn about Anne Frank and the city’s Jewish heritage. Or, journey into the countryside and see historic windmills and the fascinating porcelain works in Delft.
Country - Netherlands Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from port to Airport - 15kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Dam Square, Anne Frank's House, Volendam & Marken
Map
ms Amadolce Cabin Info
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Cruise line info
APT (Australian Pacific Touring)
A family - owned company since its auspicious conception in the 1920s, we began when Bill McGeary built a bus body on a tray truck after a tram strike crippled the city of Melbourne. Through Bill's son Geoff, we pioneered Australia's dynamic travel industry in the 1960's and 70's via a diverse range of modes. Such innovation continues to thrive within us today, now a multi-brand business with an extensive global portfolio of touring and cruising products still owned and controlled by the McGeary family. Now, with a third generation of the family contributing to our success, the benefits of the Company's family - style culture are increasingly apparent.
While vigorously pursuing a global vision, the unwavering focus is on delivering a life - enriching and memorable holiday experience for each and every individual that entrusts us with their valuable time and travel. Such longevity in a competitive environment coupled with a proven ability to meet the shifting expectations of the modern holidaymaker is testament to the pioneering spirit upon which the company was founded, and upon which it continues to operate and flourish today.
Ship info
ms Amadolce
MS Amadolce like her sister ships Amadagio and Amalegro she will offer you the luxury of more space than on any other cruise ship in Europe. 2 lounges located on the upper deck will enable you to enjoy panoramic river views, the Panorama Lounge which accommodates up to 150 passengers, and the smaller Adagio Lounge which is perfect for groups and located in a glassed-in wellness area featuring a Fitness Center and a Massage and Beauty Salon. The ship has an elevator as well as bicycles on board for you to enjoy, while exploring on shore.
Inside your tastefully decorated cabin, you'll find all the amenities of a fine hotel, white-on-white plush bedding with down pillows and down duvet, a cozy sitting area, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV with local and satellite channels, internet access, safe, individually controlled airconditioning and ample closet space. All 75 staterooms are outside; 62 (82%) feature French balconies.
Suites aboard the MS Amadolce are extra spacious - 255 square feet. They feature a sitting area with a sofa and two chairs, floor-to-ceiling windows with French balcony and a luxurious, extra spacious bathroom with bathtub and shower.
Dining
Onboard culinary staff offers sophisticated menus comprised of wonderful soups, fresh produce, high quality choice cut meats, and fresh fish and seafood. Your Maitre d' always welcomes you to the restaurant with a bright smile.
Start your day with a lavish gourmet champagne breakfast buffet. Choose from a rich assortment of breads, croissants and pastries, a variety of fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, and smoked salmon. Sample the delicious cheeses, cold cuts and local sausages, as well as our daily regional specials. An array of traditional breakfast items is also available from the menu.
Return from your shore excursion to a delicious lunch. Start with mouth-watering hot or cold appetizers, homemade soups, then choose from a selection of great entrees, finish off with a delectable dessert and complimentary cappuccino.
In the evening, be our honored guest for an elegant dinner or a traditional theme night with a feast of regional specialties. Enjoy delicious cuisine and complimentary free-flowing wines from the local vintners. Our kitchen crew knows how to orchestrate a truly memorable dining experience.
Amenities
BICYCLES: Each ship has plenty of bicycles onboard which can be used by passengers, free of charge, to explore the small towns. Most regions offer well-maintained bicycle paths along the river.
WELLNESS AREA: Located in the aft area of the Violin Deck, this generously designed space includes a glassed-in fitness room, massage and beauty salon; the aft lounge with modern wicker furniture and French doors to enjoy the fresh river air.
ELEVATOR: Each ship has an elevator, which very few river cruise ships feature. The elevator reaches four different levels: the Restaurant level (1), the Staterooms on the Cello Deck (2), the Lobby and Panorama Lounge (3) and the Staterooms on the Violin Deck (4).
INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS: Every stateroom is equipped with monitor, keyboard with Internet access, English language TV stations, a large movie selection and numerous music programs. Our satellite telephone system allows you to call home for a nominal fee.
