Home > All River Cruises > Europe River Cruises > Burgundy & Provence with Paris & French Riviera (Southbound)

Burgundy & Provence with Paris & French Riviera (Southbound)

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Burgundy & Provence with Paris & French Riviera (Southbound)

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Our Price From
US$5,385
Save $1,738pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
12 Days
 Cruise Starts
Paris
 Cruise Finishes
Nice
12 Day Burgundy & Provence with Paris & French Riviera (Southbound) Itinerary (Avalon)
Countries Explored: France
 Cruise Length
12 Days
 Cruise Starts
Paris
 Cruise Finishes
Nice
12 Day Burgundy & Provence with Paris & French Riviera (Southbound) Itinerary (Avalon)
Countries Explored: France
Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2014
Cruise Code
WJLY
Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2014
Cruise Code
WJLY

Overview

Take a delightful river cruise through France along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in well-known French treasures and some hidden gems too! This French river cruise adventure begins in style with two overnights in Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! See the landmarks of the “City of Lights”, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum with its elegant glass pyramid contrasting its ancient architecture.

Take in the beautiful countryside, quaint villages and towns, as you sail through the most captivating views of France. read more Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, founded by the Romans in 43 BC, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, and is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Visit the popular Place des Terreaux with its lively cafés and monuments, and stand in front of the famous fountain seen on postcards. With plenty of time to explore this historical city further, be sure to sample Beaujolais, the famous wine of the region.

Beautifully nestled among vineyards, is the city of Tournon a medieval treasure with plenty of Roman ruins and a fascinating 16th-century castle, where you’ll go on a guided walk. Continue your river cruise through France to historical Avignon and see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world. Enjoy your last two nights on the French Riviera. Relax along the remarkably blue water of the Mediterranean Sea—a perfect ending to this once-in-a-lifetime European river cruise!
Take a delightful river cruise through France along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in well-known French treasures and some hidden gems too! This French river cruise adventure begins in style with two overnights in Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! Explore the “City of Light” with a guided city tour to see its famous landmarks. Take in the beautiful countryside, quaint villages and towns, as you sail through the most captivating views of France. Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, founded by the Romans in 43 BC, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône read moreRivers, and is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture.

Visit the popular Place des Terreaux with its lively cafés and monuments and stand in front of the famous fountain seen on postcards. With plenty of time to explore this historic city further, be sure to sample Beaujolais, the famous wine of the region. Beautifully nestled among vineyards, is the city of Tournon, a medieval treasure with plenty of Roman ruins and a fascinating 16th-century castle, where you’ll go on a guided walk. Continue your river cruise through France to historical Avignon and see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world. Enjoy your last two nights on the French Riviera. Relax along the remarkably blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea—a perfect ending to this once-in-a-lifetime European river cruise!

Itinerary

Bienvenue en France!

Take free time today to fall in love with the world's most romantic city. Get inspired by its architectural icons, exquisite cuisine, chic boutiques, and priceless artistic treasures.

Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the city of Light

  • Classic: Join a Guided City Tour that shows the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs - Élysées.
Spend your free time strolling through the Champs - Élysées for café au lait and croissants, see the exhibits at the Louvre, or visit Montmartre's Basilica of the Sacré Cœur.

Consider browsing Paris' classic shopping avenues and literary cafés for a true Parisian experience, or have your portrait sketched by a Parisian artist in the square at Place du Tertre. (B)

Take a High - Speed Train from Paris to Dijon, to drive on to Beaune.

  • Classic: Visit the Hôtel - Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden's painting of the Last Judgment and one of France's architectural highlights.
This afternoon, travel to Chalon - sur - Saône to board your Suite Ship®

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNUS (B/D)

Pearl of Southern Burgundy.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Classic: Tucked away in the southeast corner of Burgundy, Tournus is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in the region, Our Local Guide will show the highlights of this delightful town.
Consider a Guided Optional Excursion to a Chardonnay wine cellar or to the Castle of Cormatin.

  • Discovery: Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TRÉVOUX (B/L/D)

La Vie En Rose in Lyon.

Sail for lovely Lyon this morning.

  • Active: Discover Lyon's architectural district by bike with your Adventure Host, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You'll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.
  • Discovery: Be our guest for a WWII & French Resistance your lecture on board your ship.
Later enjoy live entertainment after dinner.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON. (B/L/D)

Adventures in Food and Wine

  • Discovery: Join a Culinary Walk through the city to discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France.
The rest of your day is free to explore, relax, or shop in France's third largest city. Take a bike from the ship and explore local produce markets and parks, or take a leisurely tour of the city's more than 100 murals.

EVENING CRUISE TO TOURNON (B/L/D)

A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards

  • Classic: Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France's oldest medieval cities with its 16th-century castle.
Enjoy a leisurely sail to Viviers after lunch.

VIVIERS: World History in a Charming French Country Village.

  • Classic: Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You'll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AVIGNON (B/L/D)

The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence ¨

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf - du - Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region.

Explore Avignon on your own for the city's art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint - Bénézet.

Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment.

EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES (B/L/D)

A Brush with Genius

  • Active: Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Discovery: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You'll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.
Take free time to stop in Le Café Van Gogh for a glass of wine.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES (B/L/D)

Spectacular Seascapes of the Mediterranean Coast.

After breakfast this morning, you'll drive to Nice on the spectacular French Riviera, which stretches along France's Mediterranean coast from Toulon to the border of Italy. (B)

The “Queen of the French Riviera”

  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided Sightseeing in Nice. Discover the narrow, winding streets and baroque churches of Vieux Nice, the old city—an area which has changed little since the 1700s. (B)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Bienvenue en France!

Take free time today to fall in love with the world's most romantic city. Get inspired by its architectural icons, exquisite cuisine, chic boutiques, and priceless artistic treasures.

Cafés, Cathedrals and Canvases in the city of Light

  • Classic: Join a Guided City Tour featuring the iconic sites of Paris, which make the City of Light the most romantic and remarkable city in the world.
Spend your free time strolling through the Champs - Élysées for café au lait and croissants, see the exhibits at the Louvre, or visit Montmartre's Basilica of the Sacré Cœur.

Consider browsing Paris' classic shopping avenues and literary cafés for a true Parisian experience, or have your portrait sketched by a Parisian artist in the square at Place du Tertre. (B)

Your Suite Ship Awaits!

Take a High - Speed Train from Paris to Dijon, and continue to Beaune.

  • Classic: Visit the Hôtel - Dieu Charity Hospital in Beaune, built in 1443, today home of the Van der Weyden's painting of the Last Judgment and one of France's architectural highlights.
This afternoon, travel to Chalon - sur - Saône to board your Suite Ship®

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNUS (B/D)

Pearl of Southern Burgundy.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Active: Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host in Tournus, OR:
  • Classic: Tucked away in the southeast corner of Burgundy, Tournus is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in the region, Our Local Guide will show the highlights of this delightful town.
  • Discovery: Travel into the rolling landscapes of the Mâconnais region to learn about its world-famous Chardonnay vineyards and the wines produced here. Attend a wine tasting in the cellars of a real medieval castle!
  • Discovery: Later, enjoy a delicious Cheese Tasting on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LYON (B/L/D)

La Vie En Rose in Lyon.

  • Active: Discover Lyon's architectural district by bike with your Adventure Host, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You'll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.
  • Discovery: Be our guest for a WWII & French Resistance your lecture on board your ship.
Later enjoy live entertainment after dinner.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON. (B/L/D)

Adventures in Food and Wine.

Visit the Adventure Center for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Classic: Explore Lyon's silk heritage with a museum visit, a Walking Tour of La Presqu'île, and a live demonstration of hand - printed silk serigraphy in a workshop. A rich journey through silk history!:
This afternoon, enjoy leisurely sailing to Tournon.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNON (B/L/D)

A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards

  • Classic: Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France's oldest medieval cities with its 16th-century castle.
Enjoy a leisurely sail to Viviers after lunch.

VIVIERS: World History in a Charming French Country Village.

  • Classic: Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You'll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AVIGNON (B/L/D)

The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence.

Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities.

  • Active: Discover Avignon by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf - du - Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region.

Explore Avignon on your own for the city's art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint - Bénézet.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES (B/L/D)

A Brush with Genius

  • Active: Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • Discovery: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You'll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.
Take free time to stop at Le Café Van Gogh for a glass of wine.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES (B/L/D)

Spectacular Seascapes of the Mediterranean Coast.

After breakfast this morning, you'll drive to spectacular French Riviera, which stretches along France's Mediterranean coast from Toulon to the border of Italy.

  • Classic: En route to French Riviera, stop in Aix-en-Provence and enjoy a Guided Sightseeing to discover the elegant beauty of Cezanne's hometown. (B)

The “Queen of the French Riviera”

  • Classic: Enjoy a Guided Sightseeing in Nice. Discover the narrow, winding streets and baroque churches of Vieux Nice, the old city—an area which has changed little since the 1700s. (B)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

Life Onboard Avalon Poetry II

Avalon Poetry II
Avalon Poetry II

Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more

Our Vision. Your View.
Our Vision. Your View.

With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more

Exclusive Meets Inclusive
Exclusive Meets Inclusive

Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more

Avalon Choice
Avalon Choice

Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more

Active & Discovery
Active & Discovery

Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travelers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more

From View to Table
From View to Table

Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more

Play Youtube Video

Download Brochure

Avalon River Cruises (2025-26) Brochure

Avalon River Cruises (2025-26)

Avalon Waterways has redefined cruising by going against the current and away from the ordinary. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts guests in the captain’s seat to navigate their journey, fuel their passions, and steer clear of the usual while cruising on the world’s most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. One more step aboard our modern, luxurious Suite Ships with the grandest views in cruising and it’s easy to see how the tides are changing. Welcome to a new wave in cruising. Welcome aboard Avalon Waterways.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

Welcome Back Credit

Traveled with Avalon before? We'll automatically apply any travel credits to your booking.

GJ Loyalty Discount

Save even more if you're a past client of Global Journeys!

Cabin Layout Options:

Select Cabin Preference:

From $5,385
From $7,208
From $9,032
Sunday 05 Apr 2026 05 Apr 26 Paris
Thursday 16 Apr 2026 16 Apr 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,430
Save $258
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 19 Apr 2026 19 Apr 26 Paris
Thursday 30 Apr 2026 30 Apr 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$5,902
Save $986
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 31 May 2026 31 May 26 Paris
Thursday 11 Jun 2026 11 Jun 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,391
Save $757
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 28 Jun 2026 28 Jun 26 Paris
Thursday 09 Jul 2026 09 Jul 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,814
Save $274
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 12 Jul 2026 12 Jul 26 Paris
Thursday 23 Jul 2026 23 Jul 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,814
Save $274
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 26 Jul 2026 26 Jul 26 Paris
Thursday 06 Aug 2026 06 Aug 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,814
Save $274
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 09 Aug 2026 09 Aug 26 Paris
Thursday 20 Aug 2026 20 Aug 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,910
Save $278
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 23 Aug 2026 23 Aug 26 Paris
Thursday 03 Sep 2026 03 Sep 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,967
Save $281
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 06 Sep 2026 06 Sep 26 Paris
Thursday 17 Sep 2026 17 Sep 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,487
Save $761
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 04 Oct 2026 04 Oct 26 Paris
Thursday 15 Oct 2026 15 Oct 26 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,142
Save $746
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 28 Mar 2027 28 Mar 27 Paris
Thursday 08 Apr 2027 08 Apr 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$5,385
Save $1,714
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 11 Apr 2027 11 Apr 27 Paris
Thursday 22 Apr 2027 22 Apr 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,537
Save $762
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 25 Apr 2027 25 Apr 27 Paris
Thursday 06 May 2027 06 May 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,873
Save $776
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 23 May 2027 23 May 27 Paris
Thursday 03 Jun 2027 03 Jun 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,873
Save $776
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 06 Jun 2027 06 Jun 27 Paris
Thursday 17 Jun 2027 17 Jun 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,873
Save $776
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 04 Jul 2027 04 Jul 27 Paris
Thursday 15 Jul 2027 15 Jul 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,345
Save $1,254
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Sunday 18 Jul 2027 18 Jul 27 Paris
Thursday 29 Jul 2027 29 Jul 27 Nice
Details
Avalon Poetry II
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,105
Save $1,494
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Similar River Cruises

13 Day The Danube from Romania to Budapest with Bucharest, Transylvania & Budapest (Avalon)

13 Days Bucharest Budapest

Operated By: Avalon

From 4,941
Save 1,698
13 Day The Rhine & Moselle with Lucerne (Southbound) (Avalon)

13 Days Amsterdam Lucerne

Operated By: Avalon

From 5,254
Save 1,712
13 Day The Rhine & Moselle with Lucerne (Northbound) (Avalon)

13 Days Lucerne Amsterdam

Operated By: Avalon

From 6,133
Save 756
18 Day The Best of Austria & Switzerland with Romantic Rhine (Avalon)

18 Days Vienna Amsterdam

Operated By: Avalon

From 8,850
Save 1,119