Destination:
France,
Duration:
8 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period:
May 2028 - October 2028
Gallery
5+ Gallery Photos
Overview
7-night from Lyon to Arles
From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Begin your cruise in Lyon, France’s culinary capital, and savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. You can even become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles and learn how to pair chocolate with wine. Explore Avignon, a sprawling commune with an overwhelming array of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, intriguing art museums and historic charm. Lower the drawbridge of your fantasies in Arles, where you will trace the steps of famous artists including Van Gogh and Picasso.What's Included
- Step aboard your luxurious vessel and set sail from Lyon, a city alive with culinary delight and rich heritage. Allow the gentle rhythm of the Rhône to set the tone for the intimate and indulgent days ahead.
- Explore Lyon’s historic beauty on a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive city tour, uncovering Roman sites from Fourvière Hill to the Old Town’s cobblestone lanes and hidden “traboules.” Savor the flavors of Lyon with tastings of local cheeses, charcuterie, and freshly baked breads–or choose a guided bike tour through the city’s elegant avenues.
- Journey into the golden-hued landscapes of the Beaujolais wine region, where rolling vineyards and timeless charm await. Enjoy a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive tour of the Croix-Rousse Silk Factory or indulge in a private tasting at a traditional winery, savoring the romance and richness of France’s celebrated terroir.
- Explore Vienne’s Roman past along streets lined with ancient ruins, Gothic cathedrals, and medieval abbeys. Active travelers may hike scenic trails or cycle the ViaRhôna, taking in the serene Rhône landscapes. In the evening, enjoy a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive jazz presentation and live performance, celebrating the region’s soulful rhythm and cultural legacy.
- Glide past the Gorge du Doux aboard a charming steam train or savor the decadent pairing of red wine and chocolate at Château de Tournon. Wander through Renaissance streets in period costume, experiencing history brought vividly to life.
- Step into Avignon’s historic heart, exploring papal palaces, fortified walls, and UNESCO-listed streets. Delight in regional specialties from macarons to truffles, or cycle through the sunlit countryside, and enjoy a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive visit to the Fondation Blachère, immersing yourself in contemporary art amid the beauty of Provence.
- Wander the storied streets of Arles and the hilltop village of Les Baux de Provence, where historic ruins, galleries, and cafes intermingle. Bike along the Rhône or join the Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive Van Gogh & Saint-Rémy de Provence Walking Tour, following in the master painter’s footsteps and experiencing the luminous landscapes that inspired his iconic works.
- Bid farewell and prepare for your journey home
Start:Lyon, France
Finish:Arles, France
Finish:Arles, France
Type:Group tour (max 228)
Tripcode:
1278-2028
Dates & Prices
Select your preferred date or enquire
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Lyon
Read More
Read less
Day 2 - Lyon
Read More
Read less
Day 3 - Lyon
Read More
Read less
Day 4 - Vienne
Read More
Read less
Day 5 - Tournon
Read More
Read less
Day 6 - Avignon
Read More
Read less
Day 7 - Arles
Read More
Read less
Day 8 - Arles
Read More
Read less
Travel Partner
AmaWaterways is an award‑winning luxury river cruise company renowned for delivering immersive, culturally rich journeys along Europe’s most iconic waterways and beyond. Founded by river cruise pioneers, AmaWaterways combines elegant ships, personalised service, fine regional cuisine, and curated shore excursions - often led by local experts - to create an enriching and relaxed travel experience designed for curious, discerning travellers.
Price from
$7,176*
per person*
Tripcode: 1278-2028
Start:Lyon, France
Finish:Arles, France
Finish:Arles, France
Type:Group tour (max 228)
Tripcode:
147678
Book with confidence
Speak to an advisor in-store
Prefer to talk to us in person? Make an appointment at one of our stores to speak with one of our Travel Advisors
Make an appointment
