Epicurean Express

This medieval town in scenic Provence was for a few precious years the centre of the universe: The Vatican-on-the-Rhône when a 14th-century Pope moved his entire court from Rome to here. The fortress-like Papal palace with its imposing stone halls still dominates the old centre; ancient ramparts still ring old Avignon; and walking in the pedestrianised centre with its leafy squares can feel quite medieval – unless you’re here during the Avignon Festival in July, one of the most important contemporary performing art events in the world. We’re sure Clement V would not have approved.

Avignon is a great foodie destination with great restaurants. For an authentic and local experience, a visit to the colourful and aromatic market at Les Halles is a must. You’ll be greeted by a giant, living wall as you enter the market. Once inside there’s a huge range of vendors selling a delicious selection of Provincial foods which make for a great picnic spread to enjoy beside the river.

 

Not too long ago, people sailed for days on the Rhone to get from Avignon to Lyon. Your journey on a high-speed TGV will take just over one hour, barely leaving you enough time to buy a glass of red wine at the café-bar. Many TGV trainsets today are double-deckers, and your spacious first-class seat may well be on the upper deck, offering great views as well as an intimate cabin.

Upon arrival at Lyon, you will be met by your private guide who will escort you to your waiting chauffeured car and join you for the ride to your four-star hotel.

Then, she will invite you on a privately guided two-hour city walk. As a local insider, they have an excellent idea of what to show you. But remember: This your private guide, so feel free to mention anything you would like to experience on the walk.

Lyon is renowned for the finest food in the country. Considering the country we are talking about, that is high praise indeed. With stunning buildings, Roman ruins, medieval quarters, and churches dating back thousands of years, there are also plenty of non-culinary reasons to visit the city. The sky over the city twinkles with a galaxy of Michelin stars, but the true glory of the place is that you can taste the dedication to great food everywhere: In its bouchons – the simple restaurants with local fare, in its fine chocolate shops, and in its great bakeries.

Lyon is placed at the confluence of two of the finest rivers in France, the Saone and the Rhone. Between meals, stroll through the atmospheric neighbourhoods along the two rivers, each with their own look and charm. The medieval quarter north of the cathedral is filled with narrow cobblestone lanes and quiet little courtyards. Both riverbanks are a must-see. There are a bunch of boats that are converted to restaurants and cafes along the Rhône, so do enjoy an afternoon treat or coffee on the river.

 

 

 

The journey from the capital of food to the heart of Burgundy takes less than two hours. You travel on a TGV, most probably on the upper deck in a spacious and intimate cabin. As you would expect in France, the seats are stylishly designed. A café-car offers snacks and light meals.

Upon arrival at Dijon, you will be met by your private guide who will escort you to your waiting chauffeured car and join you for the ride to your four-star hotel.

Then, she will invite you on a privately guided two-hour city walk. As a local insider, they have an excellent idea of what to show you. But remember: This your private guide, so feel free to mention anything you would like to experience on the walk.

At first glance, today’s train looks like an ordinary TGV, but you’ll soon discover that this international TGV Lyria service comes with a premium first class. The exclusive cabin comes with its dedicated steward who will serve you an included delicious meal with wine at your seat.

Upon arrival at Paris, you will be met by your private guide who will escort you to your waiting chauffeured car and join you for the ride to your four-star hotel.

Then, she will invite you on a privately guided two-hour city walk. As a local insider, they have an excellent idea of what to show you. But remember: This your private guide, so feel free to mention anything you would like to experience on the walk.

Allow us to quote the late Anthony Bourdain, expert in travelling off-the-beaten-track, who had this to say about visiting Paris: “Please, make the most of it by doing as little as possible. Walk a little. Get lost a bit. Eat. Catch a breakfast buzz. Have a nap. Try and have sex if you can.”

His point was, you do not experience the real Paris by following the crowds and adhering to a strict itinerary. Instead, just meander through a neighbourhood that seems intriguing. Strive to get lost, and while you’re doing so, pop into vintage shops, atmospheric bookshops, and local brasseries. Great advice for any city in our collection, and especially for this repository of hidden treasures.

One such hidden gem: The Promenade Plantée. This long-abandoned mid-19th century viaduct winds its way for three miles from the Bastille. It’s a magical, green stroll with several spectacular panoramas across Parisian rooftops. Don’t forget to occasionally descend to street-level where brick archways under the viaduct have been transformed into artisan showrooms that range from violin-makers to glass blowers and jewelers.

 

Your final journey home on this rail adventure will be one to remember. We have seated you in Eurostar’s Business Premiere, one of the finest premium first classes in all of Europe. Your steward will welcome you on board and serve you a glass of Champagne, followed by a fine three-course lunch with wine as you speed under the Channel towards London.