Rhone and Saone from Lyon to Arles Best River Cruises

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When it comes to river cruising in France, the journey from Lyon to Arles along the Rhône and Saône rivers offers a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. These two rivers, which gracefully traverse the heart of France, are steeped in a rich tapestry of experiences that are best discovered aboard a leisurely river cruise. From the gastronomic delights of Lyon to the artistic heritage of Arles, here’s why cruising the Rhône and Saône from Lyon to Arles is a journey like no other.

In a Nutshell…

  1. Avignon: Explore the medieval City of Popes, Avignon, known for its Palais des Papes and historic streets.
  1. Ardèche Gorge: Visit the stunning Ardèche Gorge, with its teal-hued river and the iconic Pont d’Arc natural bridge.
  1. Lavender Fields: If you’re cruising between mid-June and mid-July, enjoy the captivating lavender fields of Provence.
  1. Vienne: Discover this historic port town along the Rhône, known for its Roman ruins and amphitheater.
  1. Tournon-sur-Rhône: Explore Tournon’s charming streets and visit the historic Château de Tournon.
  1. Viviers: Wander through picturesque villages and admire the scenic vineyards in this region.
  1. Arles: Trace Roman history in Arles, home to well-preserved ruins and the famous Amphitheatre.
  1. Camargue: Bird-spotting enthusiasts will love the Camargue wetlands, teeming with wildlife.
  1. Wine Country: Cruise through France’s luxuriant wine country, passing rolling vineyards and charming villages.

The Allure of Lyon: A Gateway to French Gastronomy

Lyon, the starting point for most Rhône and Saône river cruises, is often hailed as the culinary capital of France. This vibrant city, nestled at the confluence of the two rivers, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a history dating back over 2,000 years. Its cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and lively markets make it a perfect introduction to French culture.

Cruises departing from Lyon typically offer passengers a chance to explore the city’s famous bouchons, traditional Lyonnaise restaurants that serve hearty regional cuisine. The city is also home to several world-renowned chefs, and a visit to the local food markets, such as Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, is a must for food lovers.

But Lyon is more than just food. The city boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, perched high on a hill, offers panoramic views of the city and the rivers that flow through it.

Cruising the Saône: A Journey Through Burgundy’s Wine Country

As the cruise departs from Lyon and heads northward on the Saône River, passengers are treated to the serene landscapes of Burgundy. This region is synonymous with some of the world’s finest wines, and the riverbanks are dotted with vineyards that produce the renowned Beaujolais and Côte de Nuits wines.

Many river cruises offer excursions to local wineries where guests can tour the vineyards, learn about the winemaking process, and, of course, taste the exquisite wines. Towns such as Mâcon and Tournus provide a glimpse into Burgundy’s winemaking traditions, with charming streets and historic churches adding to the region’s allure.

One of the highlights along the Saône is the town of Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy. Here, visitors can explore the Hospices de Beaune, a former hospital now turned into a museum, famous for its colorful tiled roof and its annual wine auction, which draws wine enthusiasts from all over the world.

The Rhône River: A Passage Through History and Nature

After savoring the delights of Burgundy, the cruise typically returns to Lyon and then heads south along the Rhône River. The Rhône is one of Europe’s major waterways, flowing from the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. This leg of the journey is a blend of stunning natural scenery, ancient Roman history, and Provençal charm.

One of the first stops is the town of Vienne, known for its impressive Roman ruins, including the Temple of Augustus and Livia and the Roman theater, which still hosts performances today. As the cruise continues, passengers will pass through the dramatic landscapes of the Rhône Valley, where steep vineyards rise from the riverbanks, producing some of France’s most celebrated wines, including those from the Côtes du Rhône appellation.

Further downstream, the city of Avignon beckons with its rich history and architectural splendor. The UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes, the largest Gothic palace in the world, dominates the skyline, while the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval bridge, adds to the city’s charm. Avignon’s vibrant arts scene and bustling markets offer a delightful contrast to its historical landmarks.

Arles: The Artistic Heart of Provence

The final destination on this enchanting river cruise is Arles, a city that has inspired countless artists, including Vincent van Gogh. Arles is a city where the past and present coexist harmoniously. Its well-preserved Roman amphitheater, where gladiators once fought, is still used today for bullfights and other events.

The city’s narrow streets, lined with pastel-colored houses, lead to charming squares and bustling markets where visitors can experience the flavors of Provence. Arles is also the gateway to the Camargue, a unique natural region known for its wild horses, flamingos, and expansive wetlands. Many river cruises offer excursions into this area, providing a chance to explore its rugged beauty.

But perhaps the most memorable aspect of Arles is its connection to van Gogh. The artist spent a productive year in the city, creating some of his most famous works. Visitors can follow in his footsteps on the Van Gogh Trail, which takes them to the sites that inspired his paintings.

Choosing the Right Cruise

With so much to see and do, choosing the right river cruise is essential. Several companies offer cruises along the Rhône and Saône, each with its own unique itinerary and style. Whether you prefer a luxurious experience with gourmet dining and onboard entertainment or a more intimate journey focused on cultural immersion, there is a cruise to suit every taste.

Ultimately, a river cruise from Lyon to Arles offers a perfect blend of culinary delights, historical treasures, and natural beauty. It’s a journey that captures the essence of France, from the rolling vineyards of Burgundy to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence. For travelers seeking an immersive and leisurely way to explore this enchanting region, there is no better way than by river.

Also…

The Rhône and Saône rivers offer a captivating journey through the heart of France, from the gastronomic capital of Lyon to the historic city of Arles. This route showcases the best of French culture, cuisine, and landscapes. Here’s a detailed look at some of the best river cruises along this picturesque waterway:

A-ROSA Cruises

A-ROSA offers several enticing itineraries on the Rhône and Saône, with their “Rhône Route Classique” being a popular choice.Itinerary Highlights:

  • Departs from Lyon
  • Visits Mâcon, Chalon-sur-Saône, Tournus, Arles, Avignon, and Viviers
  • 7-night duration

Key Features:

  • Ships feature distinctive red lips painted on the hull
  • Inclusive fares cover gratuities, drinks, and a daily short excursion
  • Amenities include gyms, swimming pools, and larger-than-average spas
  • Family-friendly, with kids under 15 traveling free on some sailings

A-ROSA’s cruises start from €1,597 per person for a 7-night journey.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways offers luxurious cruises on the Rhône and Saône, known for their “Suite Ships” with panoramic windows.Itinerary Highlights:

  • Typically begins in Lyon
  • Stops include Mâcon, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles
  • Often combined with stays in Paris or Nice

Key Features:

  • Avalon Panorama Suites are 30% larger than industry standard
  • Floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall panoramic windows
  • Beds face the windows for optimal views
  • Included excursions in each port

CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope, a French company, offers budget-friendly options without compromising on the French experience.Itinerary Highlights:


  • Roundtrip from Lyon
  • Visits to Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tain-l’Hermitage, and Vienne
  • Typically 5 to 7 nights in duration

Key Features:

  • All-inclusive pricing including all meals and drinks
  • French cuisine onboard
  • Smaller ships allowing access to more ports
  • Multilingual cruises, appealing to international travelers

Scenic

Scenic offers all-inclusive luxury cruises on the Rhône and Saône.Itinerary Highlights:

  • Often starts in Paris with a train journey to Lyon
  • Stops include Mâcon, Vienne, Avignon, and Tarascon
  • Ends in Marseille

Key Features:

  • Butler service for all guests
  • All-inclusive fares covering drinks, gratuities, and excursions
  • Scenic Freechoice activities allowing personalized experiences
  • Scenic Enrich events providing exclusive cultural experiences

Amadeus River Cruises

Amadeus River Cruises offers a “Treasures of Burgundy and Provence” itinerary on the Rhône and Saône.Itinerary Highlights:

  • 8-day round trip from Lyon
  • Stops include Mâcon, Chalon-sur-Saône, Avignon, and Arles

Key Features:

  • Focus on food and wine experiences
  • Excursions to famous wine regions like Beaujolais and Côte d’Or
  • Visit to a traditional truffle farm near Grignan
  • Opportunity to explore the Ardèche Gorge, known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe”

Highlights of the Rhône and Saône Cruise

Regardless of the cruise line chosen, the Rhône and Saône offer numerous highlights:Lyon: The journey typically begins in Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital. Travelers can explore the traboules (hidden passageways) in the old town and enjoy local delicacies.Mâcon: This charming Burgundy town offers colorful facades and bustling markets. It’s an excellent place to sample regional wines and local specialties like Gaufrettes mâconnaises.Chalon-sur-Saône: Another gem in the heart of Burgundy, known for its old town and as the birthplace of photography.Avignon: Home to the impressive Papal Palace, Avignon’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.Arles: Famous for its Roman amphitheater and Van Gogh connections, Arles offers a blend of ancient history and artistic heritage.Viviers: This small walled city provides a glimpse into medieval France with its narrow streets and Romanesque cathedral.

Unique Experiences

Many cruises offer special experiences that showcase the region’s culture and natural beauty:Wine Tasting: The journey passes through renowned wine regions like Beaujolais, Côte d’Or, and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, offering ample opportunities for wine tasting.Culinary Experiences: From Lyon’s bouchons to Provence’s markets, food is a highlight of the journey.Lavender Fields: Cruises in summer may include visits to Provence’s famous lavender fields.Roman History: Many stops, particularly Arles and Vienne, showcase well-preserved Roman ruins.Nature Excursions: Some itineraries include visits to the wild Camargue region or the dramatic Ardèche Gorge.

Best Time to Cruise

The Rhône and Saône are navigable year-round, but the most popular times are:

  • Spring (April-May): Pleasant weather and blooming landscapes
  • Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, lavender in bloom, but busiest season
  • Fall (September-October): Wine harvest season, comfortable temperatures

Choosing the Right Cruise

When selecting a Rhône and Saône cruise, consider:

  • Budget: Options range from budget-friendly (CroisiEurope) to luxury (Scenic)
  • Duration: Cruises typically range from 5 to 14 nights
  • Inclusions: Some lines offer all-inclusive packages, while others have more à la carte pricing
  • Ship Size: Smaller ships can access more ports but may have fewer onboard amenities
  • Excursions: Look for itineraries that offer experiences matching your interests

A cruise along the Rhône and Saône from Lyon to Arles offers a perfect blend of French culture, history, cuisine, and natural beauty. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the French way of life, these river cruises provide an unforgettable journey through one of Europe’s most captivating regions.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson


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