Summary
Take a wondrous French river cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in famous French locales, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems too! Begin your Avalon YourWay river cruise through France in Arles and discover the setting that inspired Vincent Van Gogh. See its 1st-century Roman amphitheater still used today, and attend a painting workshop in the style of Van Gogh.
Cruise to Avignon and see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world. Continue to Viviers for a guided walk through its charming village. Nestled among vineyards and Roman ruins are the twin cities of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage. Take a guided walk of Tournon, a medieval treasure of Roman ruins and 16th-century castle.
You’ll visit Lyon, a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture, as well as France’s gastronomic capital. Lyon offers wonderful sights, including the popular Place des Terreaux with its famous fountain seen on postcards. You’ll sail to the Chardonnay wine region of Mâcon, enjoying cheese tasting on board. In Dijon, tour Beaune’s Hotel-Dieu Charity Hospital—built in 1443 and home of Van der Weyden’s “The Last Judgement.”
Continue your French vacation your way with two overnights in Paris—the “City of Light.” Discover the true heart of Paris on a guided walk through the sites of the city’s rich history, or take a tour to see the iconic landmarks of the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and more. A classic French river cruise vacation—made even better your way.
Short Itinerary / Route
- Day 1.
- Arles
- Day 2.
- Arles
- Day 3.
- Avignon
- Day 4.
- Viviers
- Day 5.
- Tain L'hermitage
- Day 6.
- Lyon
- Day 7.
- Tournus–Chalon-Sur-Saône
- Day 8.
- Chalon-Sur-Saône (Disembarkation)–Beaune–Dijon–Par...
- Day 9.
- Paris
- Day 10.
- Paris
Ports of call (8): Arles, Avignon, Chalon-Sur-Saone, Dijon, Lyon, Macon, Marseille, Paris