Rhone River Cruise including Lyon

Our Rhone River adventure begins as we arrive in Lyon, where we are welcomed by our local guide before transferring towards the river port.

En route, we enjoy a guided tour of this historic French city, discovering landmarks including:

• The magnificent Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière
• The charming streets of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon), renowned for its beautiful Renaissance architecture

Later this afternoon, we board our river cruise ship and settle into our cabin before exploring the facilities on board. This evening, we come together for a welcome cocktail followed by our first dinner as we begin our seven-night cruise along the Rhone River.
 

This morning we arrive in Mâcon, often regarded as the gateway to the vineyards of the Mâconnais wine region.

Enjoy free time to explore this historic riverside town. Wine enthusiasts may wish to visit the Hameau Duboeuf Wine Museum, where the story of Burgundy's celebrated wines comes to life.

This afternoon we visit the remarkable Cluny Abbey, once one of the most influential monastic centres in medieval Europe.

During our guided visit, we'll discover the impressive remains of its vast five-aisled church, which was once the largest church in Christendom before the construction of St. Peter's Basilica.

For 2027 departures, the excursion also includes a visit to Château de Pierreclos, a historic castle dating back to the 12th century.

Today we continue through the celebrated Burgundy wine region.

• We arrive in Chalon-sur-Saône, known for its half-timbered houses, galleries and independent boutique
• Then, we travel to Beaune, the historic wine capital of Burgundy
• Our guided tour includes a visit to the beautiful Hôtel-Dieu, once a medieval hospital and now home to fascinating museums and renowned wine cellars
• Here, we'll enjoy a tasting of local Burgundy wines

This morning we return to Lyon, the vibrant capital of the Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes region, beautifully positioned where the Rhone and Saone rivers meet.

The day is free for you to continue exploring this elegant city at your own pace. You may wish to:

• Wander its historic streets
• Relax in a café
• Discover more of its renowned culinary heritage

Today we arrive in the historic city of Avignon.

Enjoy a full day to explore independently:

• Wander through the atmospheric streets
• Admire the magnificent Palace of the Popes
• Visit the famous Pont d'Avignon
• Soak up the unique atmosphere before returning to our ship

This evening, we continue our cruise towards Arles.

Today we discover the beautiful city of Arles, whose light and landscapes famously inspired Vincent van Gogh.

Our guided tour introduces us to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where remarkably preserved Roman monuments, including the impressive Roman Arena, stand alongside charming Provençal streets rich in history and character.

This morning we arrive in Châteauneuf-du-Rhône.

Spend time exploring the local area at your own pace or choose to join an optional excursion to the spectacular Ardèche Gorge (payable locally).

This evening you will enjoy a Captain's Gala Dinner while the ship travels to Lyon.

This evening, we celebrate our final night on board with a memorable Captain's Gala Dinner as we cruise through the beautiful Rhone Valley.

After breakfast, we bid farewell to our ship and the unforgettable scenery of the Rhône.

With guide assistance, we transfer directly to Lyon Airport for our return flight home, taking with us wonderful memories of France's historic cities, celebrated wine regions and the relaxed pace of river cruising.