Cruising the Rhône: Lyon to Provence & the South of France

Spend more time exploring Toulouse, a bustling university city perched along the Garonne River. Once one of the wealthiest cities in France, Toulouse's cobblestone streets are still lined with the spoils of its past successes, including Renaissance mansions, opulent monasteries, and dusty-pink palaces-turned-hotels. Even day-to-day life is tinged with dreamy touches of history: flea markets abound in Toulouse, as do art and antiquities museums.

Set along the Riviera di Lavante, Santa Margherita Ligure is a pristine seaside resort that makes for the perfect spot to relax for an extra day or two. Spend an evening strolling along its waterfront promenade that stretches along the curve of the bay, lined with palm trees, cafés, and grand Belle Époque hotels. Or just relax and take in the views of the fishing boats and yachts filling its scenic harbor.