Cruise Advice
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
7 Ports
12 May
Setting sail from Avignon
The former papal stronghold of Avignon cuts a dramatic figure, perched above the Rhône and ensconced behind towering walls. The Palais des Papes was home to a succession of 14th century pontiffs, and still looms large over Avignon's atmospheric old town. The cobbled streets that surround the palace are a joy to explore, and you'll also find the ruins of the bridge that gave rise to the famous song. Avignon is more than just an open air museum though, and there is a real buzz about the place during July's popular theatre festival, when the city's hotels are full to bursting.
Our tip
Try a papaline d’Avignon – two coats of chocolate enclosing l’Origan du Comtat, a honey and herb-based liqueur. It looks like a neon-pink thistle but is more delicious!
12-13 May
France: Arles
The charming little town of Arles sits at the head of the Rhône delta, on the northern fringe of the sprawling marshlands of the Camargue. It’s a town with a long history, as evidenced by an impressive array of Roman ruins, and it's a great place to sample the essence of Provençal culture.
14 May
France: Tarascon
Tarascon is one of Provence’s lesser known towns, situated on the Rhône between Avignon and Arles. Points of interest include the 15th century castle and the pretty Moulin de Daudet, a windmill that belonged to the author Alphonse Daudet. Tarascon is also an important centre for Provençal textiles.
14-15 May
France: Chateauneuf-du-Pape
15 May
France: Viviers
The little town of Viviers, on the right bank of the Rhône, is a delightful place to explore on foot, with its narrow, cobbled medieval streets and elegant cathedral. A lot of history is packed into a small space, including Roman remains and the Renaissance era Maison des Chevaliers.
16 May
France: Tain I'Hermitage
The twin villages of Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain l’Hermitage sit on opposite banks of the Rhône, around 50 miles south of Lyon. Visit Tournon’s hilltop castle and charming old town, then sample some of Tain l’Hermitage’s excellent wines and the famous Valrhona chocolate.
17-18 May
Arriving in Lyon
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon is one of France's most appealing cities. Its reputation for gastronomic excellence is well deserved, with hundred of wonderful restaurants, from lavish Michelin-starred affairs to family-run joints tucked away down a back alley. What's more, the UNESCO listed historic centre boasts a marvellous ensemble of Renaissance-era buildings, best appreciated from the top of the soaring Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière.
Don't miss
Eating out in Lyon is the best – starve yourself for days in advance in order to be able to make the most of this foodiest of cities.
Riverside Ravel and Debussy
These identical ‘Rhine Class’ vessels offer a welcoming range of lounges and facilities, with spacious and beautifully decorated suites.
What we love
The Riverside Luxury Cruises experience is defined by comfort, space, fine cuisine and service and these ships have all of these hallmarks and so much more. Contemporary, light-filled suites shine and allow for an unforgettable and refined luxury river cruise.
| capacity | 110 |
|---|---|
| style | Modern elegance with personalised service and large windows throughout to really take in the beautiful scenery as you meander down the river. |
| inclusions |
Upgrade to Premium All-Inclusive Including Excursions for an additional cost. |
| year built | 2018 (Riverside Ravel & Debussy) |
| length | 443 feet |
| breadth | 36 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Our favourite hotel in Avignon
La Mirande – intimate, great location and classically French style.
Around Avignon
If you are interested in Roman antiquities, visit the archaeological site of Glanum at Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Where to stay in Lyon
We love the Cour des Loges in the heart of old Lyon.
What to do around Lyon
This is a great base to set forth for wine tasting in Beaujolais.
