Joyfully say au revoir to the year and follow the Rhône to France's traditions. After legendary vineyards in Tain-l'Hermitage, travel after the winter sun to the World Heritage Site of Arles, the gateway to the Camargue. Let yesterday and today merge over an aperitif in the papal city of Avignon, and look forward to Viviers, which awaits you on New Year's Eve with best wishes for 2022. Back in the gourmet metropolis of Lyon, you can then look to the future with great pleasure - pur bonheur!
Please note that there may be changes in the order of ports of call on this route.
Sitting in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, where the Rhône and Saône rivers converge, Lyon boasts a proud 2,000 year history. From its magnificent Roman Amphitheatre of Fourvière, to Renaissance architecture in Lyon’s old town, to the Presqu’ile peninsula, where impressive 19th century buildings house banks, cultural centres, and government buildings, alongside designer stores, independent retailers, restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs.
Check out the Vieux area of the city, and its grand houses of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, built by the city’s wealthy silk merchants. Walk the Traboules, underground passageways that linked the weaving houses to the river. Visit the impressive Fourvière Basilica, and Lyon’s gothic cathedral. Seek out the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the largest fine-arts museum outside of Paris. Or choose to relax, stroll the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of France’s largest botanical gardens, and stop off at a Bouchon, to enjoy some local Lyon cuisine.
From the boat, you and your guide will take the metro to the old town of ''Vieux Lyon''. The former economic centre of the city impresses with its picturesque, cobbled streets. There you will also get a glimpse of the famous ''traboules'', which mark passages that lead from one street to another through houses and courtyards. On the way you will have the opportunity to taste French specialities like ''Praline brioche''! Let us surprise you.
You can keep the tickets and use them all day long!
Hugging the rich landscape of the Rhône wine valleys, and not far from the rugged Doux valley, you'll find the picturesque village of Tournon, nestled on the banks of the Rhône river. Known as Tournon-sur-Rhône, this scenic town, in the Ardéche valley of the South of France, boasts an historic castle of the same name. Step inside the Castle of Tournon-sur-Rhône to find the Musée de France, depicting the world of the Renaissance. Enjoy the art and furniture of the times, reflecting the culture and beauty of Tournon-sur-Rhône.
Take a stroll through the side streets of the ancient village of Tournon-sur-Rhône, where you'll absorb the atmosphere of the rich past of Tournon. While you're there, enjoy a coffee, and perhaps a piece of cheese! Don't miss a visit to the Jardin d'Eden, the gardens that were previously owned by the historic monastery of the Moines des Cordeliers. The current owners have put their all into maintaining this lovely garden.
If you have a love of Roman history, then Arles should be on the visiting itinerary. Situated on the Rhône River, in Southern France, the city was at one time a provincial capital of ancient Rome. The Roman influence can still be seen to this day in its historical sites.
Its semi-circular Roman theatre still stands on a hilltop. Its Amphitheatre, built between the 1st and 2nd century, and capable of accommodating over 20,000 spectators, is used today for plays, festivals and bullfights. While the Alyscamps, or Roman Necropolis, built by the Romans and Greeks, is the most famous burial site in the western world. Another site worthy of mention is the Constantine Thermes, built between the 3rd and 4th centuries during the reign of the Emperor Constantine. Arles is also said to have influenced Van Gough’s paintings, and the contemporary art on show at the Vincent Van Gough Foundation.
Arles, the gateway to the Camargue, is a small town in Provence, rich in culture and tradition. Numerous magnificent buildings such as the mighty Arena still remind us of the glorious Roman history. Arles captivates with a mixture of Roman, Romanesque, Provençal and gypsy culture. Emperor Constantine once called it ''Little Rome in Gaul'' and the amphitheatre dating from the 1st century AD still bears witness to the city's Roman past. During your walk through this beautiful city you will meet artists such as Vincent van Gogh and experience the typical South-Provencal charm. Vincent van Gogh spent the last years of his life in Arles and painted many of his most famous works.
With admission to the Van Gogh Fondation
Leaving the ship in Arles, your tour leads you to the well-preserved Aix-en-Provence. The city keeps alive its traditions, boasting a colorful heritage of Roman and Provencal culture. On the way, you will admire the emblematic Montagne Saint Victoire, made famous by the postimpressionist movement precursor: Paul Cezanne.
You will follow in the footsteps of the renowned painter, born in Aix in 1839, discovering the beautiful paved historic streets and squares of the old town.
The tour includes the façade of the most emblematic buildings like: Quartier Mazarin, hôtels particuliers du Cours Mirabeau , cathédrale Saint Sauveur, fontaine Moussue and so on.
Afterwards, enjoy your free time to discover local shops and specialties.
After your lunch break you will continue to Marseille. With 3000 years of history, the second largest city in France and capital of the Provence Alpes-Côte-d'Azur (PACA) region, Marseille is the most important port city in France. Ideally located in a beautiful natural setting between the hills of Provence and the Mediterranean Sea. The area around the old port and La Canebière, a cosmopolitan and lively street, are well worth a detour. The "Notre Dame" basilica is located on a hill at a height of 162 m. From there you have the best panoramic view of the city.
In the late afternoon the Bus will take you back to the ship in Port St. Louis. Enjoy your bus ride and the beautiful landscapes of the Provence.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.As you stroll the squares and cobbled streets of Avignon, in south-eastern France, you can’t help but be impressed by the architectural influence of 400 years of papal rule. From its 800 year old ramparts that tower majestically over the Rhône River, to the UNESCO listed Pope’s Palace and city centre, the area is steeped in cultural history. However, to contrast the spectacular ancient architecture, the city has a young energetic population. With many attending the University of Avignon, they add a dynamic energy to the many cafes and bistros dotted around the town squares and alleyways.
Visit the three magnificent Gothic churches, the old papal mint, Collection Lambert, and the Renaissance artwork in the Musee du Petit. Wander through the Rochers des Doms gardens. Take in the spectacular view across the city skyline, and relax with a liqueur coffee and pastries, in one of the many pavement cafes.
The excursion starts directly at the landing stage. Today you will visit Avignon, the city of the popes. The old town with its magnificent medieval houses is surrounded by a long fortification wall and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the 14th century Pope's Palace, the Bishop's Palace, Rocher-des-Dome and the famous Pont St. Bénézet bridge. You will visit the Pope's Palace, one of the most unique and imposing Gothic buildings. During the walk you will pass the church of St. Agricole, the Roman excavations and the town hall. From the Rocher of the cathedral you can enjoy the beautiful terraces of the garden with an impressive view over the Rhône valley and the famous bridge. There is enough free time to explore the lively city centre of Avignon and to go in search of specialities such as papalines, almond cake or pear liqueur.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.Today's excursion takes you to the Alpilles, a limestone chain in the southwest of Provence. On the southern side of the Alpilles is one of the largest olive growing areas in France. First you will visit the medieval village of Les-Baux-de-Provence, whose small alleys and houses seem to grow out of the rocks. The village will enchant you and from the citadel you will have a breathtaking view over the so-called valley of hell. Afterwards you will have the opportunity to visit one of the olive oil mills and learn about the production of one of the world's best olive oils. The secret of the production will surprise you as well as the colour and taste of the oil. On the way back, you will pass Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, which is the ideal of a typical southern French village.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.As you stroll the squares and cobbled streets of Avignon, in south-eastern France, you can’t help but be impressed by the architectural influence of 400 years of papal rule. From its 800 year old ramparts that tower majestically over the Rhône River, to the UNESCO listed Pope’s Palace and city centre, the area is steeped in cultural history. However, to contrast the spectacular ancient architecture, the city has a young energetic population. With many attending the University of Avignon, they add a dynamic energy to the many cafes and bistros dotted around the town squares and alleyways.
Visit the three magnificent Gothic churches, the old papal mint, Collection Lambert, and the Renaissance artwork in the Musee du Petit. Wander through the Rochers des Doms gardens. Take in the spectacular view across the city skyline, and relax with a liqueur coffee and pastries, in one of the many pavement cafes.
The excursion starts directly at the landing stage. Today you will visit Avignon, the city of the popes. The old town with its magnificent medieval houses is surrounded by a long fortification wall and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, together with the 14th century Pope's Palace, the Bishop's Palace, Rocher-des-Dome and the famous Pont St. Bénézet bridge. You will visit the Pope's Palace, one of the most unique and imposing Gothic buildings. During the walk you will pass the church of St. Agricole, the Roman excavations and the town hall. From the Rocher of the cathedral you can enjoy the beautiful terraces of the garden with an impressive view over the Rhône valley and the famous bridge. There is enough free time to explore the lively city centre of Avignon and to go in search of specialities such as papalines, almond cake or pear liqueur.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.Today's excursion takes you to the Alpilles, a limestone chain in the southwest of Provence. On the southern side of the Alpilles is one of the largest olive growing areas in France. First you will visit the medieval village of Les-Baux-de-Provence, whose small alleys and houses seem to grow out of the rocks. The village will enchant you and from the citadel you will have a breathtaking view over the so-called valley of hell. Afterwards you will have the opportunity to visit one of the olive oil mills and learn about the production of one of the world's best olive oils. The secret of the production will surprise you as well as the colour and taste of the oil. On the way back, you will pass Saint-Rémy-de-Provence, which is the ideal of a typical southern French village.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.Viviers is a small and sleepy town in south-central France, in the province of Ardeche. This medieval town has retained a lot of its original appeal. A cruise through the city will be significantly different compared to a walk. The cruise trip on the Rhine river will typically run through the evening and will wind through the cobblestone streets of the city. The city has Medieval stone houses which will quickly give you an idea of how life was back in the 15th and 16th centuries. You will also notice that the place is very quiet, having about 3,000 inhabitants at the time.
A key attraction you will see in the city is the famous Renaissance Maison des Chevaliers or House of Knights. This Renaissance-style house has a long and interesting history, having originally been the house of a rich merchant known as Noel Alberta. You will also see the famous Cathedral of St. Vincent which is even much older than the House of Knights. The cathedral was constructed in the 12th century and is currently protected as a historical monument.
Over thousands of years the limestone cliffs have been hollowed out by the turquoise green 120 km long Ardèche. This natural phenomenon has created one of the most beautiful landscapes in the South of France. Before you reach the impressive natural limestone arch Pont d'Arc, which links the two banks of the river like an arch, visit the Lavender Museum of St. Remèze, where you will learn a lot about the production and use of this versatile plant. Along the way there are many opportunities to take photos of this beautiful landscape from different perspectives. Very close to the La Madelein cave, you will enjoy the fantastic view over the so-called cathedral, an impressive rock formation in the gorges of the Ardèche.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.The castle towers majestically over Grignan and offers a breathtaking view over the Drôme region. It is known for the most famous letters of French literature between the Marquise Marie de Sévigné, who lives in Versailles, and her daughter in Grignan. After her death, the Marquise found her final resting place in the collegiate church of Saint-Sauveur below the castle terrace.
You will then drive to a truffle farm where you will learn all about the cultivation of the precious truffle. The "black diamond", a mushroom, is used in many exquisite recipes and is one of the specialties of the area.
Afterwards you go back to the ship.
Viviers is a small and sleepy town in south-central France, in the province of Ardeche. This medieval town has retained a lot of its original appeal. A cruise through the city will be significantly different compared to a walk. The cruise trip on the Rhine river will typically run through the evening and will wind through the cobblestone streets of the city. The city has Medieval stone houses which will quickly give you an idea of how life was back in the 15th and 16th centuries. You will also notice that the place is very quiet, having about 3,000 inhabitants at the time.
A key attraction you will see in the city is the famous Renaissance Maison des Chevaliers or House of Knights. This Renaissance-style house has a long and interesting history, having originally been the house of a rich merchant known as Noel Alberta. You will also see the famous Cathedral of St. Vincent which is even much older than the House of Knights. The cathedral was constructed in the 12th century and is currently protected as a historical monument.
Over thousands of years the limestone cliffs have been hollowed out by the turquoise green 120 km long Ardèche. This natural phenomenon has created one of the most beautiful landscapes in the South of France. Before you reach the impressive natural limestone arch Pont d'Arc, which links the two banks of the river like an arch, visit the Lavender Museum of St. Remèze, where you will learn a lot about the production and use of this versatile plant. Along the way there are many opportunities to take photos of this beautiful landscape from different perspectives. Very close to the La Madelein cave, you will enjoy the fantastic view over the so-called cathedral, an impressive rock formation in the gorges of the Ardèche.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.The castle towers majestically over Grignan and offers a breathtaking view over the Drôme region. It is known for the most famous letters of French literature between the Marquise Marie de Sévigné, who lives in Versailles, and her daughter in Grignan. After her death, the Marquise found her final resting place in the collegiate church of Saint-Sauveur below the castle terrace.
You will then drive to a truffle farm where you will learn all about the cultivation of the precious truffle. The "black diamond", a mushroom, is used in many exquisite recipes and is one of the specialties of the area.
Afterwards you go back to the ship.
Viviers is a small and sleepy town in south-central France, in the province of Ardeche. This medieval town has retained a lot of its original appeal. A cruise through the city will be significantly different compared to a walk. The cruise trip on the Rhine river will typically run through the evening and will wind through the cobblestone streets of the city. The city has Medieval stone houses which will quickly give you an idea of how life was back in the 15th and 16th centuries. You will also notice that the place is very quiet, having about 3,000 inhabitants at the time.
A key attraction you will see in the city is the famous Renaissance Maison des Chevaliers or House of Knights. This Renaissance-style house has a long and interesting history, having originally been the house of a rich merchant known as Noel Alberta. You will also see the famous Cathedral of St. Vincent which is even much older than the House of Knights. The cathedral was constructed in the 12th century and is currently protected as a historical monument.
Over thousands of years the limestone cliffs have been hollowed out by the turquoise green 120 km long Ardèche. This natural phenomenon has created one of the most beautiful landscapes in the South of France. Before you reach the impressive natural limestone arch Pont d'Arc, which links the two banks of the river like an arch, visit the Lavender Museum of St. Remèze, where you will learn a lot about the production and use of this versatile plant. Along the way there are many opportunities to take photos of this beautiful landscape from different perspectives. Very close to the La Madelein cave, you will enjoy the fantastic view over the so-called cathedral, an impressive rock formation in the gorges of the Ardèche.
Subject to change without notice. Please note that your route may not include all the excursions listed. You will receive further information about the excursions that can be booked with your travel documents and on board.The castle towers majestically over Grignan and offers a breathtaking view over the Drôme region. It is known for the most famous letters of French literature between the Marquise Marie de Sévigné, who lives in Versailles, and her daughter in Grignan. After her death, the Marquise found her final resting place in the collegiate church of Saint-Sauveur below the castle terrace.
You will then drive to a truffle farm where you will learn all about the cultivation of the precious truffle. The "black diamond", a mushroom, is used in many exquisite recipes and is one of the specialties of the area.
Afterwards you go back to the ship.
Sitting in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, where the Rhône and Saône rivers converge, Lyon boasts a proud 2,000 year history. From its magnificent Roman Amphitheatre of Fourvière, to Renaissance architecture in Lyon’s old town, to the Presqu’ile peninsula, where impressive 19th century buildings house banks, cultural centres, and government buildings, alongside designer stores, independent retailers, restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs.
Check out the Vieux area of the city, and its grand houses of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, built by the city’s wealthy silk merchants. Walk the Traboules, underground passageways that linked the weaving houses to the river. Visit the impressive Fourvière Basilica, and Lyon’s gothic cathedral. Seek out the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the largest fine-arts museum outside of Paris. Or choose to relax, stroll the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of France’s largest botanical gardens, and stop off at a Bouchon, to enjoy some local Lyon cuisine.
From the boat, you and your guide will take the metro to the old town of ''Vieux Lyon''. The former economic centre of the city impresses with its picturesque, cobbled streets. There you will also get a glimpse of the famous ''traboules'', which mark passages that lead from one street to another through houses and courtyards. On the way you will have the opportunity to taste French specialities like ''Praline brioche''! Let us surprise you.
You can keep the tickets and use them all day long!
Sitting in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, where the Rhône and Saône rivers converge, Lyon boasts a proud 2,000 year history. From its magnificent Roman Amphitheatre of Fourvière, to Renaissance architecture in Lyon’s old town, to the Presqu’ile peninsula, where impressive 19th century buildings house banks, cultural centres, and government buildings, alongside designer stores, independent retailers, restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs.
Check out the Vieux area of the city, and its grand houses of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, built by the city’s wealthy silk merchants. Walk the Traboules, underground passageways that linked the weaving houses to the river. Visit the impressive Fourvière Basilica, and Lyon’s gothic cathedral. Seek out the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the largest fine-arts museum outside of Paris. Or choose to relax, stroll the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of France’s largest botanical gardens, and stop off at a Bouchon, to enjoy some local Lyon cuisine.
From the boat, you and your guide will take the metro to the old town of ''Vieux Lyon''. The former economic centre of the city impresses with its picturesque, cobbled streets. There you will also get a glimpse of the famous ''traboules'', which mark passages that lead from one street to another through houses and courtyards. On the way you will have the opportunity to taste French specialities like ''Praline brioche''! Let us surprise you.
You can keep the tickets and use them all day long!
Let us inspire you. Here you will find some pictures and information about the cities on this route.
Sitting in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France, where the Rhône and Saône rivers converge, Lyon boasts a proud 2,000 year history. From its magnificent Roman Amphitheatre of Fourvière, to Renaissance architecture in Lyon’s old town, to the Presqu’ile peninsula, where impressive 19th century buildings house banks, cultural centres, and government buildings, alongside designer stores, independent retailers, restaurants, bars, cafes, and nightclubs.
Check out the Vieux area of the city, and its grand houses of the 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries, built by the city’s wealthy silk merchants. Walk the Traboules, underground passageways that linked the weaving houses to the river. Visit the impressive Fourvière Basilica, and Lyon’s gothic cathedral. Seek out the Musée des Beaux-Arts, the largest fine-arts museum outside of Paris. Or choose to relax, stroll the Parc de la Tête d’Or, one of France’s largest botanical gardens, and stop off at a Bouchon, to enjoy some local Lyon cuisine.
Hugging the rich landscape of the Rhône wine valleys, and not far from the rugged Doux valley, you'll find the picturesque village of Tournon, nestled on the banks of the Rhône river. Known as Tournon-sur-Rhône, this scenic town, in the Ardéche valley of the South of France, boasts an historic castle of the same name. Step inside the Castle of Tournon-sur-Rhône to find the Musée de France, depicting the world of the Renaissance. Enjoy the art and furniture of the times, reflecting the culture and beauty of Tournon-sur-Rhône.
Take a stroll through the side streets of the ancient village of Tournon-sur-Rhône, where you'll absorb the atmosphere of the rich past of Tournon. While you're there, enjoy a coffee, and perhaps a piece of cheese! Don't miss a visit to the Jardin d'Eden, the gardens that were previously owned by the historic monastery of the Moines des Cordeliers. The current owners have put their all into maintaining this lovely garden.
If you have a love of Roman history, then Arles should be on the visiting itinerary. Situated on the Rhône River, in Southern France, the city was at one time a provincial capital of ancient Rome. The Roman influence can still be seen to this day in its historical sites.
Its semi-circular Roman theatre still stands on a hilltop. Its Amphitheatre, built between the 1st and 2nd century, and capable of accommodating over 20,000 spectators, is used today for plays, festivals and bullfights. While the Alyscamps, or Roman Necropolis, built by the Romans and Greeks, is the most famous burial site in the western world. Another site worthy of mention is the Constantine Thermes, built between the 3rd and 4th centuries during the reign of the Emperor Constantine. Arles is also said to have influenced Van Gough’s paintings, and the contemporary art on show at the Vincent Van Gough Foundation.
As you stroll the squares and cobbled streets of Avignon, in south-eastern France, you can’t help but be impressed by the architectural influence of 400 years of papal rule. From its 800 year old ramparts that tower majestically over the Rhône River, to the UNESCO listed Pope’s Palace and city centre, the area is steeped in cultural history. However, to contrast the spectacular ancient architecture, the city has a young energetic population. With many attending the University of Avignon, they add a dynamic energy to the many cafes and bistros dotted around the town squares and alleyways.
Visit the three magnificent Gothic churches, the old papal mint, Collection Lambert, and the Renaissance artwork in the Musee du Petit. Wander through the Rochers des Doms gardens. Take in the spectacular view across the city skyline, and relax with a liqueur coffee and pastries, in one of the many pavement cafes.
Viviers is a small and sleepy town in south-central France, in the province of Ardeche. This medieval town has retained a lot of its original appeal. A cruise through the city will be significantly different compared to a walk. The cruise trip on the Rhine river will typically run through the evening and will wind through the cobblestone streets of the city. The city has Medieval stone houses which will quickly give you an idea of how life was back in the 15th and 16th centuries. You will also notice that the place is very quiet, having about 3,000 inhabitants at the time.
A key attraction you will see in the city is the famous Renaissance Maison des Chevaliers or House of Knights. This Renaissance-style house has a long and interesting history, having originally been the house of a rich merchant known as Noel Alberta. You will also see the famous Cathedral of St. Vincent which is even much older than the House of Knights. The cathedral was constructed in the 12th century and is currently protected as a historical monument.