10 Day River Cruise Arles to Paris
Take a wondrous French river cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in famous French locales, as well as off-the-beaten-path gems too! A Certified Sommelierwill accompany you on your river cruise in France with presentations, tastings, and wine pairings along the way.

Begin your Avalon YourWay river cruise through France in Arles; see its 1st-century Roman amphitheater still used today, and attend a painting workshop in the style of Van Gogh, who was inspired here.

Cruise to Avignon and see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world— and take a guided tour to Châteauneuf du Pape. Continue to Viviers for a guided walk through its charming village. Nestled among vineyards and Roman ruins are the twin cities of Tournon and Tain l’Hermitage. Take a guided walk of Tournon, a medieval treasure of Roman ruins and 16th-century castle.

You’ll visit Lyon, a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture, as well as France’s gastronomic capital. Lyon offers wonderful sights, including the popular Place des Terreaux with its famous fountain seen on postcards. Then take a guided tour to Beaujolais and the following day to Chardonnay, where you will have the opportunity to taste local wines. Cruise to Mâcon for an excursion to a Chardonnay wine cellar. In Beaune, visit Cité des Climats et Vins de Bourgogne and discover the region’s rich wine culture.

Continue your French vacation your way with two overnights in Paris—the “City of Light.” Discover the true heart of Paris on a guided walk through the sites of the city’s rich history or take a tour to see its iconic landmarks. A classic French river cruise vacation—made even better your way.

About Certified Sommeliers
Seldom do travelers get the chance to learn about wines from certified experts in the field! Avalon invites you to sail in the company of a certified sommelier who shares elite experience, unsurpassed knowledge, and personal passion for wines on board your ship. We are honored to offer our guests the expertise of certified sommeliers who join select cruises to share their insights and inspiration in all things wine. Truly exclusive experiences for wine lovers!