River cruising in Southern France with unforgettable scenery

Take in artistic and historical treasures, and experience the unique cuisine of France’s gastronomic heartland with our range of unforgettable Rhône cruises.

There are only a handful of countries that inspire Europe’s most famous artists, sculptors, fashion designers and not to forget travellers quite like France.

France is home to some of the most famous rivers in Europe, if not the world, including the Seine, the Moselle, and the Rhône. Especially a Rhône river cruise such as the Colours of Provence river cruise is a feast for all the senses. Natural attractions along the way include blankets of fragrant lavender fields and the wild Camargue region populated by horses, bulls and flamingos.

The Rhône was a key trading route in Greek and Roman times. Its trading legacy can still be found along its river banks. Today’s river cruises focus on a 192 mile stretch of the river with visits to Lyon, Tournon-sur-Rhône, Avignon and Arles.

Lyon

Lyon is France’s third largest city and is known for its rich history, cuisine, and architecture. Founded 2,000 years ago, this UNESCO World Heritage Site has a history of producing and weaving silk, and visitors can still explore the traboules (type of passageway primarily associated with the city of Lyon) through which the silk was transported. Some of the most popular attractions in Lyon include the museums and amphitheaters in the Fourvière, the historic sites in Vieux Lyon, the art in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon, and the street art and markets found on La Croixe-Rousse. When booking the Burgundy & Provence river cruise, you’ll have enough time to explore Lyon by bike which we can highly recommend.

Tournon-sur-Rhône

Standing guard high above the Rhône, across from Tain-l’Hermitage, is the picturesque village of Tournon-sur-Rhône which you will visit with most Rhône river cruises such as the Sensations of Lyon & Provence cruise. The town is best known for its the stunning castle which dates back to the 10th century. The area is also known as a dedicated producer of high-quality cheese, honey, traditional charcuterie, and organic produce.

Avignon

In the 14th century Avignon was the most important city in Europe: It was the seat of the Catholic church, represented in spectacular style by the Palais des Papes, the largest gothic building in the world.

The ancient city walls enclose both broad tree-lined streets and intriguing passageways, leading to picturesque squares, shops, galleries, churches and museums. The huge, imposing Palais des Papes offers a very worthwhile historical tour and nearby, the gardens of Rocher des Doms overlook the mighty Rhône Valley, tiled city rooftops and Provençal countryside.

Arles

Arles has a pleasant Provençal ambience found in its leafy public squares and slow-paced lifestyle. The city invites visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls and relax at the shaded terraces of its outdoor cafés. Art lovers will want to follow the Van Gogh Trail to see the scenes of the artist’s famous paintings.

In our destination section, you will find a great overview of available Rhône river cruises. For more details, please give us a call (0800 471 4754) or send us an email.