7 nights · France · River cruise · Departs Lyon (France) · Visiting Trevoux, Villefranche-sur-Saone, Vienne, Tournon-sur-Rhone, Avignon, Tarascon-sur-Rhone, Arles · Aboard AmaWaterways on the AmaKristina
Image courtesy of AmaWaterways ©
This river cruise sails the Saone and Rhone, departing Lyon.
| Cruise line | AmaWaterways |
|---|---|
| Ship | AmaKristina |
| Duration | 7 nights |
| Port calls | 8 |
| Departures | 8 sailings |
| From fare | $3,099 per person |
| Year built | 2016 |
| Guests | 158 |
| Cabins | 76 |
| Crew | 49 |
| Length | 135 m |
| Beam | 12 m |
| Cruising speed | 11.0 kn |
Where the Rhône meets the Saône, France’s third-largest city joins Roman foundations, Renaissance streets and contemporary architecture. Walk Vieux Lyon’s covered passageways, then climb to Fourvière for broad views over terracotta roofs. Come hungry: Lyon’s bouchons serve regional dishes, while Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse brings together the city’s finest producers. Allow time for the riverbanks, museums and a meal that makes Lyon’s culinary reputation tangible.
Trévoux sits on the Saône, a riverside town in the Ain department, with a story shaped by trade and power. Its old lanes climb towards the remains of a medieval castle, with views across the river and the Dombes. For centuries, Trévoux was the capital of the principality of Dombes and home to its parliament. Today, historic façades, quiet quays and the town’s printing heritage reward an unhurried visit.
Villefranche-sur-Saône sits beside the Saône, at the southern gateway to Beaujolais. Vineyard slopes begin just beyond town. Follow Rue Nationale, the old trading route, beneath its arcades and past historic façades. Visit the Gothic collegiate church of Notre-Dame-des-Marais, then sample the region’s celebrated reds in a local cellar. Lyon lies about 30 kilometres south, offering an easy extension for fine food, architecture and museums.
Vienne sits on the Rhône, 20 miles south of Lyon, where Roman history remains part of the everyday streetscape. Its first great sight is the Temple of Augustus and Livia, remarkably intact beside the cafés of the old town. Climb to the Roman theatre, cut into Pipet Hill, for broad views across rooftops and river. Across the Rhône, Saint-Romain-en-Gal preserves mosaics and evidence of a thriving Roman quarter. Allow time for the cathedral and a leisurely lunch.
From the Rhône’s western bank, Tournon-sur-Rhône faces the celebrated vineyards of Tain-l’Hermitage, just across the river. Its medieval castle now houses a museum, while steep lanes climb past stone houses and old town walls. A suspension bridge links the two towns, making vineyard visits and tastings easy. Come for the northern Rhône’s Syrah, then return to the quay for river views and a slower, distinctly French afternoon.
Avignon rewards a slow first look: medieval ramparts frame a city shaped by popes, merchants and the Rhône. Inside the walls, the immense Palais des Papes recalls the 14th-century era when the papacy moved here. Nearby, the broken span of Pont Saint-Bénézet reaches into the river, made famous by the French song. Leave time for shaded squares, Provençal markets and a glass of local wine before the Rhône carries you onward.
Tarascon stands on the Rhône between Avignon and Arles, with Provence’s sunlit plains beyond its old stone streets. Its landmark, the Château de Tarascon, is a formidable 15th-century fortress overlooking the river. Explore the church of Sainte-Marthe and the compact historic centre, then cross the bridge to Beaucaire. This is a rewarding stop for travellers drawn to medieval architecture and the enduring character of Provence.
Arles stands on the Rhône in Provence, where Roman monuments and a working southern French city share the same streets. The UNESCO-listed Roman theatre and amphitheatre remain central landmarks, built when ancient Arelate prospered. Vincent van Gogh painted here from 1888 to 1889, drawn by the region’s clear light. Visit the Fondation Vincent van Gogh, then explore the old town’s Provençal markets and café terraces.
Tarascon stands on the Rhône between Avignon and Arles, with Provence’s sunlit plains beyond its old stone streets. Its landmark, the Château de Tarascon, is a formidable 15th-century fortress overlooking the river. Explore the church of Sainte-Marthe and the compact historic centre, then cross the bridge to Beaucaire. This is a rewarding stop for travellers drawn to medieval architecture and the enduring character of Provence.
Avignon rewards a slow first look: medieval ramparts frame a city shaped by popes, merchants and the Rhône. Inside the walls, the immense Palais des Papes recalls the 14th-century era when the papacy moved here. Nearby, the broken span of Pont Saint-Bénézet reaches into the river, made famous by the French song. Leave time for shaded squares, Provençal markets and a glass of local wine before the Rhône carries you onward.
Published August 11, 2026
Last updated October 3, 2026
Author: J. Richard
Good to know: Prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. Availability and prices can change quickly, so please continue through the booking process to confirm the latest availability and pricing before you pay.
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