The Rhône River, a picturesque waterway flowing through some of France’s most fertile regions, awaits your exploration. Imagine gliding along its waters, indulging in exquisite cuisine and renowned wines, and immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Provence and Burgundy.
Rhone river cruise ship in France
Discovering the Rhône River by Cruise: A Journey of Emotions
The Rhône River, stretching over 800 km, originates in the Swiss Alps, flows through southern France, and empties into the Mediterranean Sea. This river is not only a vital waterway but also a historical witness, preserving the marks of ancient Greeks and Romans. Today, a Rhône River cruise offers a unique form of travel, providing visitors with the chance to explore the beauty of France at a leisurely and poetic pace.
Typical Rhône River Cruise Itinerary
Cruise itineraries typically last 7 nights, departing from Lyon and ending in Arles or Avignon, or vice versa. Some routes extend from Chalon-sur-Saône, north of Lyon, allowing travelers to fully explore the beauty of the Rhône River.
River cruise ship on a European river
On this journey, you will have the opportunity to visit ancient cities such as Avignon, with its majestic Palace of the Popes, or Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. Tours will take you to Vienne, to explore ancient Roman ruins like the 14,000-seat amphitheater and the Temple of Augustus and Livia.
Must-Visit Destinations
- Vienne: Admire ancient Roman ruins, testaments to a glorious era.
- Viviers: Explore a small city with unique medieval architecture and charming old streets.
- Tournus: Visit Saint Philibert Abbey, one of the most important Romanesque architectural sites in France.
- Arles: Immerse yourself in the artistic atmosphere of the city where Vincent van Gogh lived and created famous works. You can find familiar landmarks from his paintings like “The Langlois Bridge at Arles”.
In addition, visitors also have the opportunity to visit local vineyards, meet passionate winemakers, and taste fine wines paired with regional specialties.
Food and Wine: The Soul of a Rhône River Journey
The Rhône River flows through regions renowned for their gastronomy and wines, offering travelers unforgettable experiences. Burgundy is famous for its Pinot Noir red wine and Chardonnay white wine, while Provence captivates visitors with its delicious rosé wine and fresh Mediterranean cuisine.
People enjoying a river cruise in Europe
Onboard the cruise, you will enjoy meals prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, harmoniously paired with local wines. Don’t miss the opportunity to participate in wine tasting sessions to learn about the production process and savor the distinctive flavors of each wine.
Rhône River Travel Tips
- Ideal time to visit: Spring and autumn are the best times to cruise the Rhône River, when the weather is mild and pleasant.
- Transportation: You can fly to Lyon Airport (LYS) and then transfer to the cruise dock. Alternatively, you can take the Eurostar train from London through the Channel Tunnel and transfer to the French TGV train to reach Lyon or Avignon.
- Cruise duration: Rhône River cruises typically last from 7 to 10 days.
- Choosing a cruise: Many travel companies offer Rhône River cruise tours with varying prices and services. Choose a reputable company that suits your needs.
Aerial view of a river cruise ship in Europe
Extending Your French Exploration
If you have time, combine your Rhône River cruise with exploring other famous cities in France like Paris or the Loire Valley.
- Paris: Spend a few days discovering the glamorous capital with famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Champs-Élysées, and the Arc de Triomphe.
- Loire Valley: Experience a cruise on the Loire River, famous for its historic castles and vast vineyards.
Conclusion
A Rhône River cruise is a fascinating and memorable journey to discover France. You will witness the beauty of fertile regions, savor exquisite food and wine, and immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of this country. Plan your trip today and discover the wonders that the Rhône River offers.