Saone and Rhone River Cruise Itinerary
DAY 1: Lyon, France
Lyon is the destination for fine food fans. 2000 years of rich history. Musée des Beaux-Arts. The old town with cobblestone streets. The Basilica Notre-Dame and a magnificent view over the city and the countryside. Silk painting in the smart working-class district of La Croix-Rousse. The gourmet temple of Les Halles de Lyon de Paul Bocuse. The finest cuisine in the region’s typical “Bouchon” style. So much sensuality. So much pleasure.
DAY 2: Tournon, France
DAY 3: Viviers, France, Chateauneuf-du-Pape
If you like historic towns, you will love Viviers! Thanks to Bishop Charles de la Font de Savine, Viviers was spared from the destruction during the French Revolution and has kept its medieval structure until today. The best way to explore the divided city is on foot, but be careful, the stairs to the upper town are numerous. It is worth it, however, if only for the view. Visit the Saint-Vincent Cathedral. It is said to be the smallest cathedral in France.
DAY 4: Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon and Arles, France
Châteauneuf-du-Pape literally translates to “The Pope’s new castle,” and indeed, the history of this area is firmly entwined with papal history due to its proximity to Avignon. It is renowned for its stunning wines, producing full-bodied red wines made primarily from Grenache grapes, often blended with Syrah and Mourvèdre. The town is presided over by its stern castle with a history dating back to the 9th century.
DAY 5: Arles, France, Port St. Louis, France
This pearl of Provence is surrounded by the most beautiful natural parks in Europe. Today, Arles is the epitome of important art and a contemporary witness to an eventful history, from the amphitheatre to proud patrician houses. And what would Arles be without van Gogh – strolling through the town in the footsteps of this great artist – that too is unforgettable.
DAY 6: Port St. Louis, France, Tarascon, France
Tarascon, located in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region of southern France, is steeped in history. The magnificent Tarascon Fortress, built in the 15th century, stands as an imposing symbol of the town’s medieval heritage. Constructed between 1401 and 1433, it served as a first line of defense on the border territories of the Rhône River and as a residence for King René, who held the titles of King of Naples, Duke of Anjou, and Count of Provence. This formidable fortress has been exceptionally well-preserved and now houses a museum showcasing historic artifacts, art, and furniture. The town’s Collegiate Church of Saint Martha, a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, is another architectural gem. Tarascon’s rich history extends to its annual “Fête de la Tarasque,” which celebrates the mythical Tarasque monster, a unique local legend.
DAY 7: Tarascon, FR, Avignon, France
Avignon is a city of unparalleled beauty. It curves its way over the river Rhône, and has done so since 1840. The Pont Saint-Bénézet acquired international fame through the song “Sur le pont d’Avignon”. Crossing it, you find yourself immediately in front of the Papal Palace, one of the largest and most important medieval buildings in Europe. It arose, it must be said, out of sheer laziness: For the Archbishop of Bordeaux did not wish to travel to Rome for his papal consecration. He had himself crowned in Lyon and had a palace built in Avignon. A monument.
