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Cruises Rhône : Offers and promotions 2026 - 2027

2 cruises found

Rhône River cruise: a guide to choosing the right one

A Rhône River cruise lets you experience several sides of southern France in just a few days, from its food and history to its sun-drenched landscapes: stroll through Lyon's traboules, bouchons, and Halles Paul Bocuse; step back in time amid the Roman ruins and the Palace of the Popes in Vienne, Avignon, or Arles; or savor the art of living in the vineyards of Châteauneuf-du-Pape, the Ardèche Gorges, and the wide-open spaces of the Camargue.

The destination naturally blends heritage, regional food, wine, villages, and Provençal scenery into a warm river cruise experience deeply rooted in the landscapes of the Rhône.

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Rhône

France

Itinerary : Dijon, Saint Leger sur Dheune, Santenay, Chagny, Chalon sur Saone (canal), Saint-Jean-de-Losne, Petit-Ouges, Dijon

CroisiEurope
MS Daniele
On-board meals included
MS Daniele

MS Daniele

7 d

Ocean view Stateroom

Dijon

04/01/2027

from

5 692 $CA

River Cruises leaders
On-board meals included
View offers
France

Itinerary : Besancon, Ranchot, Dole, Saint-Jean-de-Losne, Petit-Ouges, Dijon

CroisiEurope
MS Daniele
On-board meals included
MS Daniele

MS Daniele

7 d

Ocean view Stateroom

Besancon

06/24/2027

from

5 829 $CA

River Cruises leaders
On-board meals included
View offers

Tips for choosing your Rhône River cruise

1. Choose your region

  • The north (Lyon & Beaujolais) : The world capital of gastronomy. Ideal for tastings, Gallo-Roman history, and the famous vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône.
  • The central region (Provence) : Avignon and Viviers. Ideal for the Palace of the Popes, medieval villages, and lavender fields.
  • The south (Camargue) : Arles and the delta. Ideal for untamed nature, pink flamingos, and magnificent Roman heritage.

2. Choose your style

  • French-speaking experience & tradition (CroisiEurope) : The leading cruise line on the Rhône. Welcoming ships, a focus on French cuisine, and a 100% French-speaking onboard team.
  • Premium (AmaWaterways) : A refined fleet with an international flair, bike tours, guided hikes, and an in-depth wine program.

1. Top experiences on a Rhône River cruise

From Roman heritage and Provençal villages to renowned vineyards and delta landscapes, here are 12 essential experiences to enjoy on a Rhône River cruise:
Arriving in Lyon, the capital of gastronomy

Arriving in Lyon, the capital of gastronomy

Start or end your cruise at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône, exploring Old Lyon, its traboules and traditional bouchons, and the panoramic views from Fourvière.
Gallo-Roman Vienne

Gallo-Roman Vienne

Explore this ancient Roman city on the Rhône, including the Temple of Augustus and Livia, the Roman theater, and the ruins of Saint-Romain-en-Gal.
The vineyards of Tain-l'Hermitage

The vineyards of Tain-l'Hermitage

Make a stop opposite the legendary Hermitage hillsides to taste the great wines of the Rhône Valley, including Syrah, Marsanne, and Roussanne.
Tournon-sur-Rhône and the charm of both banks

Tournon-sur-Rhône and the charm of both banks

Cross the footbridge to Tain-l'Hermitage, visit Tournon Castle, and enjoy superb views of the river and terraced vineyards.
Train de l'Ardèche

Train de l'Ardèche

From Tournon, board a historic train through the Doux Gorges, a popular excursion that offers a change of pace from the ship while showcasing nature and railroad heritage.
Viviers, the medieval gem of the Ardèche

Viviers, the medieval gem of the Ardèche

Wander the cobblestone lanes of this small episcopal town, admire Saint Vincent Cathedral, and enjoy views over the Rhône Valley.
The Ardèche Gorges and Pont d'Arc

The Ardèche Gorges and Pont d'Arc

On an excursion from Viviers or the surrounding area, discover one of southern France's great natural landscapes, with limestone cliffs, scenic roads, and a spectacular natural arch.
Avignon and the Palace of the Popes

Avignon and the Palace of the Popes

Discover one of the Rhône's most iconic ports of call, with the Palace of the Popes, Pont Saint-Bénézet, and ramparts overlooking the river.
A tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

A tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape

From Avignon, head to this legendary wine village to taste the powerful wines of the southern Rhône Valley amid distinctive rounded pebbles and the ruins of the papal castle.
Pont du Gard

Pont du Gard

Admire this masterpiece of Roman engineering, a monumental three-tiered aqueduct and one of the finest cultural excursions from Avignon or Arles.
Arles: Roman arena and the light that inspired Van Gogh

Arles: Roman arena and the light that inspired Van Gogh

Visit the arena, Roman theater, and lanes that inspired painters in a city where Roman heritage meets Provençal art.
A Camargue excursion from Arles

A Camargue excursion from Arles

Explore the Rhône Delta, home to pink flamingos, white horses, bulls, rice fields, salt marshes, and wide-open landscapes along the Mediterranean.

3. The best times for a Rhône River cruise

May–June

Weather & conditions

Mild and in bloom. Beautiful sunny days with ideal temperatures (20–25°C).

Expert advice

The perfect season. The landscape is lush and green. To see Provence's lavender in bloom, plan your trip for late June.

July–August

Weather & conditions

Very hot and dry. Clear blue skies are virtually guaranteed, and cicadas sing throughout Provence.

Expert advice

A festive atmosphere, especially during the Avignon Festival. Plan archaeological excursions early in the morning to avoid the heat.

September–October

Weather & conditions

Southern France's Indian summer. Plenty of sunshine remains, with fall colors appearing in the vineyards.

Expert advice

An ideal choice for wine enthusiasts, particularly with AmaWaterways, who want to experience the excitement of harvest season.

SeasonWeather & conditionsExpert advice
May–June
Mild and in bloom. Beautiful sunny days with ideal temperatures (20–25°C).
The perfect season. The landscape is lush and green. To see Provence's lavender in bloom, plan your trip for late June.
July–August
Very hot and dry. Clear blue skies are virtually guaranteed, and cicadas sing throughout Provence.A festive atmosphere, especially during the Avignon Festival. Plan archaeological excursions early in the morning to avoid the heat.
September–October
Southern France's Indian summer. Plenty of sunshine remains, with fall colors appearing in the vineyards.An ideal choice for wine enthusiasts, particularly with AmaWaterways, who want to experience the excitement of harvest season.

2. Hot spots on a Rhône River cruise

From Lyon to the Mediterranean, the Rhône basin offers an extraordinary wealth of experiences. Here are the must-see places for every interest.

In Arles

In Arles

The vast Roman amphitheater and ancient theater.

In Avignon

In Avignon

The magnificent Palace of the Popes, a testament to the city's power in the 14th century.

In Vienne

In Vienne

The remarkably well-preserved Temple of Augustus and Livia in the heart of the city.

In Arles

In Arles

The vast Roman amphitheater and ancient theater.

In Avignon

In Avignon

The magnificent Palace of the Popes, a testament to the city's power in the 14th century.

In Vienne

In Vienne

The remarkably well-preserved Temple of Augustus and Livia in the heart of the city.

In the Camargue

In the Camargue

The Rhône Delta, a nature reserve that is home to pink flamingos and white horses.

In the Ardèche

In the Ardèche

The excursion, often from Viviers, to the dramatic Ardèche Gorges.

The Vercors

The Vercors

The rugged mountain scenery visible from the river near Tournon-sur-Rhône.

In the Camargue

In the Camargue

The Rhône Delta, a nature reserve that is home to pink flamingos and white horses.

In the Ardèche

In the Ardèche

The excursion, often from Viviers, to the dramatic Ardèche Gorges.

The Vercors

The Vercors

The rugged mountain scenery visible from the river near Tournon-sur-Rhône.

In Lyon

In Lyon

Halles Paul Bocuse and traditional "bouchons" for charcuterie and quenelles.

In Tain-l'Hermitage

In Tain-l'Hermitage

The steep hillsides where renowned Côtes du Rhône wines are grown (and the Cité du Chocolat Valrhona!).

In Châteauneuf-du-Pape

In Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Prestigious wine estates scattered around the popes' former summer residence.

In Lyon

In Lyon

Halles Paul Bocuse and traditional "bouchons" for charcuterie and quenelles.

In Tain-l'Hermitage

In Tain-l'Hermitage

The steep hillsides where renowned Côtes du Rhône wines are grown (and the Cité du Chocolat Valrhona!).

In Châteauneuf-du-Pape

In Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Prestigious wine estates scattered around the popes' former summer residence.

What our guests loved

Must-see highlights of a Rhône River cruise

Savoring the Rhône through Lyon's bouchons, wines, and regional specialties

Travelers often name the culinary scene as one of the great pleasures of a Rhône River cruise. Lyon, Tain-l’Hermitage, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape stand out for their food halls, bouchons, wine tastings, chocolate, local fare, and the sense of following a river where every port has its own specialty.

Strolling through historic cities along the Rhône and across Provence

Avignon, Arles, Vienne, and Lyon often feature in reviews because their heritage sites are so easy to reach from the ship. Travelers enjoy going from Lyon's traboules to Roman ruins, then on to the Palace of the Popes or Provençal lanes, with stops that combine history, sidewalk cafés, and a southern French atmosphere.

Exploring southern landscapes: the Ardèche, Camargue, and villages

Nature experiences also receive high praise because they offer a change of pace between cultural stops. Travelers love the Ardèche Gorges, terraced vineyards, medieval villages, and the Camargue for their wide-open landscapes, scenic roads, horses, birds, and the feeling of slowly discovering Provence along the river.

Hidden gems off the beaten path

Exploring Croix-Rousse, from silk workers' traboules to views over Lyon

In Lyon, travelers eager to venture beyond Halles Paul Bocuse and the traditional bouchons often enjoy Croix-Rousse for its hills, stairways, traboules, and history tied to the canuts, Lyon's historic silk weavers. The neighborhood turns a distinctly Lyonnais walk into a series of tangible discoveries: the tall façades of former workshops, a farmers market, small squares, and views across the city as you descend toward the riverbanks.

Viewing Avignon from Barthelasse Island: the Rhône, ramparts, and Pont Saint-Bénézet

In Avignon, travelers often talk about the Palace of the Popes and the bridge, but Barthelasse Island offers another perspective on the city. From the opposite bank, a broader view takes in the ramparts, the Rhône, Pont Saint-Bénézet, and the old façades, in an atmosphere far calmer than the historic center.

Strolling through the Arles market among Provençal flavors and Camargue products

In Arles, travelers often enjoy the market because it complements the arena and Roman lanes with a slice of everyday life. Stalls stretch along the boulevards, offering fruit, cheese, spices, olives, honey, olive oil, Arles sausage, Camargue rice, and snacks to enjoy on the spot.

Learn more about your Rhône cruise

A romantic cruise along the rivers of France Although the Rhone has its source at the Rhone Glacier, located in Switzerland, the most important part is in France. This river, one of the biggest in France, and through Switzerland and France before emptying into the Mediterranean Sea. When it goes through Lyon, Rhône Saône merges with another river in France which originates in Vioménil. The Rhone and Saone are respectively 812 and 480 km and through many French cities before ending their journey in the Mediterranean. These two rivers have played an important role in the history of France. Saône was used as a natural border to prevent the Helvetii to invade the territory during the Gallic Wars. The Roman army, meanwhile, has used the Rhone to avoid a war against General Hannibal. Today, these two rivers welcome yachts and soldiers have been replaced with vacationers eager for discoveries. A river adventure through French cities Rhône Saône A cruise is the perfect opportunity to explore several French cities, the time for a single trip. The adventure begins in Arles, a town in the department of the Rhone delta and is known for its architectural heritage, legacy of ancient times. The forum of the city, its arenas, its Roman theater and circus are among the best sights of Arles. The cruises along the Rhone and Saone also pass through Avignon, the city of the popes. Cross the famous bridge, walk along the ramparts that transcend ages, visit the Papal Palace, are all activities you can do during your visit to this city. Before leaving the city, enjoy a refreshing break in the heart of the green garden of the Rock. Lyon, famous for its historical, cultural and gastronomic, is one of the most anticipated stops during a cruise in the Rhone and Saone. Enjoy the time you spend ashore to visit the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourviere, where you will have breathtaking views of the entire city. Place Bellecour, the Tête d'Or Park and the old quarter and the Lafayette Bridge also worth a visit. If you program your fall cruise, you may have the opportunity to participate in Lights festival. Cruise companies include Roquemaure in their romantic cruises along the Rhone and Saone. Valentine's Day in this city is a great experience punctuated by the tasting of typical AOC products in the region. In addition to the festivities, Roquemaure also catches the eye with its astonishingly well preserved castles and collegiate church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste, who proudly displays a Provencal Gothic style. A Rhone and Saone cruise also passes through the Camargue. While most of the cities visited during this cruise fascinated by their architectural and historical heritage, the Camargue, it stands out for the richness of its living heritage. Besides the high festivities emotions like Camargue races or bullfights, this region of France annually hosts bird species that migrate come in his pond. With its cathedral, home of the Knights, the statue St. Michael, Viviers, the other cruise stopover located on the right bank of the Rhone, is a veritable outdoor museum that delights lovers of culture. Charmes-sur-Rhone, which is in the Ardeche is another cruise stopover Rhone and Saone. In summer, this area is famous for its music festivals and free concerts. Charmes-sur-Rhône is also home to the nature reserve Printegarde and architectural heritage worthy of interest as evidenced by Giroud fountain, the chapel of princes or the castle of Voulte. Some cruise itineraries on the Rhone and Saone Macon include stops in their programs. This town in the Burgundy and Franche-Comté pleases for its ancient monuments including the flagship is the St. Pierrre church and its baroque style. This stop in Macon is the opportunity to explore the local vineyards and taste wines. When a cruise along the Rhône and Saône? The cities that line the banks of the Rhone and Saone deliver us their best secret that during the heyday. To fully enjoy the beauty of the surrounding landscapes, so it is advisable to carry your Rhone-Saone cruise in the spring, preferably from April to May, and summer, between July and October. The mild climate is not the only reason to choose one of those seasons, including summer to make your cruise. Along rivers, temperatures remain pleasant and many festivals including that of Avignon, just waiting for you. In summer also the landscape is all lit up, giving you an unforgettable show.
MS Daniele