Winding its way through the heartland of France and flowing south into the Med, the Rhône valley is dotted with numerous charming villages, magnificent historical cities including Avignon, Viviers and Mâcon, and is regarded as one of the greatest wine-growing regions in the world.
Quick Search Search 1,592 river cruise departures along the Rhône
The Rhône River originates in the Swiss Alps, specifically from the Rhône Glacier in the canton of Valais. It flows through Lake Geneva and enters France, eventually emptying into the Mediterranean Sea through a delta in the Camargue region. The river has a total length of approximately 813 km's (505 miles).
Do river cruises sail the length of the Rhône?
While the Rhône starts in Switzerland, most river cruises focus on the French section of the river, typically starting from Lyon and going south towards the Mediterranean, or vice versa. The stretch of the river from Lyon to the Mediterranean Sea is navigable and is the section most often included in river cruise itineraries.
Gourmet Capital
The Rhône flows through Lyon, often considered the gastronomic capital of France. Many river cruises offer culinary excursions in Lyon, where you can indulge in gourmet delights from fine dining to local markets.
Wine Lovers' Paradise
The Rhône Valley is one of France's premier wine-producing regions. You'll find renowned vineyards near Avignon and Châteauneuf-du-Pape, offering excellent opportunities for wine-tasting tours.
Impressionist Scenery
The Rhône was a great inspiration for Vincent van Gogh, especially during his time in Arles. The vivid landscapes and light have also inspired many other artists, adding a layer of artistic history to the region.
The Camargue
Near the Rhône Delta, you'll find the Camargue, a natural region famous for its pink flamingos, white horses, and black bulls. Some cruises offer excursions to this unique natural reserve, providing a break from the cities and vineyards.
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Why pay for other people’s drinks? Why pay for shore excursions that don’t interest you? Family-owned Amadeus has spent 40-years' perfecting the balance more without compromising quality. Beer, wine and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, but not during the day. Only pay for the shore excursions you want. Book an excursion package in advance for a discount or book individual excursions as you go. Gourmet dining, wi-fi, bottled water in cabins and of course one of the most luxurious five-star fleets on the European waterways. To quote a regular repeat guest “Amadeus are fantastic. A really great product and the crew are all so beautiful”. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
With Scenic, it’s more than a 5-star river cruise...it’s a seamless journey from start to finish that places you, our guest, at the heart of everything more we do. It’s taking you to extraordinary regions and immersing you in meaningful and enriching experiences. It’s exquisite cuisine, indulgent wellness, and a world-class team who will anticipate your every need. You'll find the difference is in the details with Scenic: the innovative ship design, expertly trained crew, immersive journey, and an unrivalled focus on health and safety protocols.
Whether you're experiencing the Rhine or the Danube, the Douro, the Rhône, Seine, Maas or Moselle... the magic of Tauck's award-winning European river more cruises goes far beyond the riverboat you're aboard or the landmarks you'll visit. It's in the intimate ambiance and personalized service... the places you'll discover off the beaten path... and in the uncommon access to local culture and exclusive destination driven experiences you can't get on your own, as you experience a true slice of European life and return home transformed.
This vibrant city beckons with its culinary excellence, UNESCO-listed Vieux Lyon (Old Town) and Basilica of Notre Dame. Experience a blend of historical and contemporary architecture, or witness sweeping views from the top of Fourvière Hill.
Tournon
Explore the 16th-century Tournon Castle and museum and wander through the historic old town. The dual suspension bridges afford breathtaking river views, and did we mention it is also a wine lover's haven?
Viviers
Delight in a visit to charming Viviers. With residences of past nobility and the 12th-century St Vincent Cathedral, immerse yourself in history against the backdrop of the breathtaking French countryside.
Pont du Gard, Avignon
Built in the first century AD, the Pont du Gard is a Roman aqueduct bridge and UNESCO-listed site. This architectural marvel once delivered water to the ancient city known as Nemausus, 50km away!
Artistic Arles
Home to the ancient Arles Amphitheatre, the city's historic and artistic heritage will charm and fascinate. Vincent van Gogh painted over 300 pieces during his stay here - discover the magic yourself.
Latest Reviews What our clients are saying about their journeys along the Rhône
We greatly enjoyed our river cruise. The staff on Poetry II were top-notch. We thank those who were especially helpful, like Matheus in reception, Marya in the dining room, and Carmen in housekeeping. Some really went out of their way to help me when I got sick during the cruise, such as Adrian who was super-accommodating in adjusting local tour arrangements, read more and Margarida who diligently served me a special medicinal drink using a very effective Portuguese recipe. This was a very positive experience and we look forward to joining another Avalon river cruise in the not too distant future.
This river cruise with Emerald, through the south of France, was most enjoyable and very good value. It was not as inclusive as previous river cruises I have taken, but it did allow me to question if the unlimited alcohol and extra tours included in the fully inclusive cruises, are really worth the extra cost. The trip was chosen, due to the Nice read more extension at the start and the Paris extension at the end. The ship was spotlessly clean; staff was extremely attentive and obliging and the food was excellent. The daily programme and excursions were well organised and ran to schedule. Also included, was an evening performance by a small orchestra, at a local cathedral. The bathrooms were smaller than usual, but the facilities around the ship were spacious and well maintained.
A special feature was a small, infinity pool at the rear of the ship, that converted to a movie theatre at night. The ship was fully booked, with 134 passengers from USA, Canada, UK, NZ and Australia. Thanks again to the ever efficient, knowledgeable and pleasant Georgie for handling our booking. As usual, Georgie delivers the highest service. Well done!
The ship, the crew, the food, the Cruise Director were fantastic. Interaction with the Global team was also first class and happy to recommend you to our friends. xox
Relaxed and interesting, meals ranged from excellent to outstanding and wines good. Staff excellent and nothing was too much trouble. A good choice of excursions that was what attached us to the trip.
Explore More Your guide to traveling along the Rhône
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