Why Choose A Rhone River Cruise for Vacation?

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A Rhône river cruise takes you through France's picturesque landscapes to experience the best of French culture. If you haven't already considered a cruise along the Rhône, here are three great reasons why you should:

1. The History 

The Rhône brings history to life, port by port, village by village.  Avignon’s wine cellars date back over a thousand years, and Arles’ 2,000-year-old amphitheater is amazingly well-preserved.

2. The Food

You'll taste your way through a region long known for its culinary delights. Lyon, France is considered the gastronomic capital of the world with many Michelin Star restaurants. Visit truffle farms, chocolatiers, and specialty food shops that have thrived for centuries. The earthy dijon mustard, aromatic Herbs de Provence, and creamy nougat will be as unforgettable as the wine.

3. The Wine

Viticulture has a long pedigree, and in France, only Bordeaux has more vineyards. Wine connoisseurs and novices alike will have opportunities for indulgence along every bend. The Rhône River flows through the well-regarded vineyards of Burgundy & Provençe, with 15 varieties of grapes to choose from. If a spicy Grenache and a fruity Syrah makes you swoon, this is your chance to have your wine and drink it too.

A Rhône River cruise itinerary will not disappoint.  

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LYON, FRANCE

Discover Lyon, starting in the city's historical region at Fourviere Hill, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. The Basilica provides a vantage point for sweeping views Lyon. See the city's unique covered walkways, known as "traboules." Indulge in rich cheeses, fresh bread, and charcuterie in Les Halles Market. In the afternoon, travel to the Beaujolais wine region. Enjoy a wine tasting at a traditional winery and learn about the history and techniques of the vineyard.

The next morning, enjoy free time in Lyon. Pop into an outdoor café for an authentic French breakfast or visit one of the city's many amazing museums during your leisurely morning. Then bid Lyon adieu and set sail.

VIENNE, FRANCE

Vienne lies between the Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône wine regions. The city has a Roman history that is seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Explore on a walking tour to see the Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took over 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey, one of the oldest surviving churches in France and an Archaeological Museum. Or you might opt to be more active and hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or join a bike tour riding along the ViaRhôna bike route.

TOURNON, FRANCE

Wine and chocolate lovers will want to visit le Château de Tournon for a presentation and tasting on the pairing of red wine and chocolate. For a more active adventure, hike through vineyards and visit a local winery where you'll sample some of the wines.

AVIGNON, FRANCE

The top attraction in Avignon is the Palace of the Popes. The city itself dates back to the 12th century. In 1309, Avignon was the center of the Catholic Church, with the Palace of Popes being the residence for popes and today's equivalent of the Vatican. Discover its history and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. In the evening, enjoy a short cruise to the Pont d'Avignon illuminated against the night sky.

ARLES, FRANCE 

Sail overnight to Arles, which inspired Vincent Van Gogh, and where he lived the last two years of his life. Arles is just as picturesque as you imagine from some of his most iconic works, like Café Terrace at Night. Modern meets ancient in the heart of Provence where the ancient amphitheater is now surrounded by restaurants, shops, and one of Provence’s biggest markets, the Arles Bazaar.

Set out on a guided tour in the morning, taking in the rich Roman heritage, like the the Arénes d’Arles (amphitheater), built in the first century BC and modelled from the Colosseum. Or you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhone through town to the famous subjects from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. During the afternoon, you will venture to the medieval hilltop village, Les Vaux de Provence, to see a spectacular presentation of art projected on the former limestone quarry walls.

 

Cruising the Rhone River is a relaxing vacation. Waking up each day in a different city means the captain is driving, leaving you to enjoy the experiences, the scenery, wonderful dinners, and conversations with fellow travelers. There is no fighting for a parking space, no searching for your hotel, no packing up every morning, and you don't have to search for a decent place to eat. 

 

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