Overview of the Rhône River and River Cruises
If spending summer in the south of France sipping rosé sounds like your vibe, then a Rhône River cruise is for you! The Rhône River winds through the dreamy south of France, starting in the Swiss Alps and flowing through Lyon and the stunning Provence region before reaching the Mediterranean Sea. Imagine spending summer cruising past lavender fields, sipping rosé, and exploring charming villages and world-class wine regions. Most cruises kick off or wrap up in Lyon or Avignon, taking you through rolling vineyards, pastel-colored towns, and cities filled with Roman and medieval history. It’s the ultimate getaway for anyone who loves scenic beauty, delicious wine, and soaking up the sun in the south of France!
Embarkation City Spotlight: Lyon, France
Lyon, France’s third-largest city and the culinary capital, is a key starting or ending point for many Rhône River cruises. Set where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, Lyon is a UNESCO World Heritage site full of stunning Renaissance architecture, charming silk-weaving districts, and the best food scene you could dream of. You can’t miss the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière for its breathtaking views of the city, or exploring the Traboules, those hidden little passageways once used by silk workers. And if you’re a food lover, Lyon’s famous bouchons—cozy, traditional restaurants—are an absolute must!
Pro Tip: Lyon is famous for its Tarte à la Praline, a delicious pink pastry made with bright pink almond pralines and sugar. The tart has a vibrant color and a sweet, crunchy texture, making it a must-try treat when visiting the city!
Places River Cruises Stop Along the Rhône
Rhône River cruises take travelers through a mix of historic towns, and scenic countryside. Some key stops include:
- Avignon, France: Known as the “City of Popes,” Avignon is famous for the Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, and its medieval bridge, the Pont d’Avignon.
- Arles, France: A charming town with well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Arles Amphitheatre and Roman Theatre, as well as strong connections to artist Vincent van Gogh.
- Viviers, France: A small town with a rich history, featuring medieval streets, Renaissance houses, and the impressive St. Vincent Cathedral.
- Tournon-sur-Rhône, France: A picturesque town known for its vineyards and Château de Tournon, offering stunning views of the Rhône Valley.
- Vienne, France: Once a major Roman city, Vienne is home to impressive ancient ruins, including the Temple of Augustus and Livia and a Roman amphitheater.
Example Excursions
Excursions along the Rhône highlight the region’s rich culinary influence, wine culture, and natural beauty. Popular activities include:
- Avignon’s Palais des Papes tour: Explore the grand Gothic palace that served as the residence for several popes in the 14th century.
- Arles Roman ruins: Take a guided tour of the Roman amphitheater, still used for performances today, and the Roman baths and forums.
- Wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape: Visit some of the region’s famous vineyards and wine estates, sampling world-class Rhône wines.
- Lyon city tour: Discover Lyon’s historic old town, its stunning basilica, and its vibrant food markets, including Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse.
- Lavender fields of Provence: In summer, many cruises offer excursions to see the famous lavender fields, a hallmark of Provence’s beauty.
Walkability
Many of the towns and cities along the Rhône are highly walkable, with their historic centers close to the riverbank. Avignon, Arles, and Viviers are ideal for exploring on foot, with medieval streets and key landmarks all within easy walking distance right from the ship.
For excursions to vineyards or outlying areas, such as the lavender fields of Provence or the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, transportation is typically provided by bus or private tour, organized by the cruise line.
Local Culture and History
The Rhône River has been a vital part of southeastern France’s history since Roman times, and you can still see its past reflected in the Roman ruins and medieval fortresses along its banks. Cities like Arles and Vienne were once bustling Roman hubs, while Avignon made its mark in the 14th century when it became the seat of the papacy, leaving behind incredible cultural and architectural treasures. Flowing through Provence, the Rhône takes you through a region famous for its bold red wines, like Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and its mouthwatering Provençal cuisine, with olive oil, herbs, and fresh produce at the heart of every dish. Plus, in late spring and summer, the lavender fields bloom, filling the air with their sweet fragrance and turning the landscape into a sea of purple.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Historic Site of Lyon: Lyon’s old town, with its Renaissance architecture and historical significance as a silk-weaving hub, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- Palais des Papes (Avignon): The Papal Palace, the largest Gothic palace in Europe, this imposing structure served as the residence for several popes in the 14th century.
- Roman and Romanesque Monuments of Arles: Arles is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in France, including the Arles Amphitheatre, Roman Theatre, and Alyscamps burial site.
- Pont du Gard: While not directly on the Rhône, this ancient Roman aqueduct near Avignon is a UNESCO-listed site and is often included in Rhône cruise excursions.
Best Dining Spots
Lyon is a foodie paradise with over 80 Michelin-starred restaurants in the city and surrounding area as of the most recent Michelin Guide. The city’s reputation as the culinary capital of France is well-earned. If you’d like to dine at any of the many Michelin-starred restaurants, I recommend adding a few extra days in the city of Lyon before or after your cruise and make a reservation in advance.
Here are some other culinary highlights to take note of for a Rhone River cruise:
- Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse (Lyon): A renowned indoor market offering a wide range of gourmet French products, from cheeses and charcuterie to fresh seafood and pastries.
- Francois Pralus (Lyon): This iconic patisserie is famous for its pink praline pastries, especially their delicious brioche à la praline.
- Café Van Gogh (Arles): Sometimes referred to as Café La Nuit, is featured in Van Gogh’s painting Café Terrace at Night. You’ll recognize it when you see it! This charming café is still in operation today and is a popular spot for visitors. If you don’t have time for a coffee, definitely grab a picture.
Transportation Tips
Lyon is well-connected via Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport (LYS), which offers both international and domestic flights. The city’s train station (Lyon Part-Dieu) also provides excellent connections to other parts of France and Europe. Public transportation within Lyon is convenient, with trams, buses, and metro lines connecting key neighborhoods.
For those starting or ending their cruise in Avignon, the city is accessible by high-speed train (TGV) from Paris, taking approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes. Avignon’s city center is compact and walkable, though taxis and buses are available for longer distances.
Many river cruise companies provide transportation for excursions to outlying areas, such as Châteauneuf-du-Pape or the Pont du Gard, ensuring that travelers can easily access more remote locations.
Best Month to Visit
The best time to cruise the Rhône River is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are particularly beautiful. Spring is an ideal time to enjoy blooming flowers, fresh produce, and the vibrant markets of Provence. Autumn brings the wine harvest, making it the perfect time for wine enthusiasts to visit, with local festivals celebrating the grape harvest in towns like Châteauneuf-du-Pape.
The summer months (June-August) are also popular, offering warm, sunny days and the added bonus of Provence’s famous lavender fields in full bloom from late June to August. However, these months can be busy with tourists.In December, the Rhône region celebrates the holiday season with festive Christmas markets, particularly in cities like Avignon and Lyon, where the streets are filled with lights, decorations, and local crafts.
