France Cruise from Lyon to Villefranche-sur-Mer — 8 Days

Lyon, France

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.

Macon, France

Mâcon is Burgundy at its gentler, sunlit edge, set beside the Saône and surrounded by vineyards. Begin in the old centre, where pastel façades, the Maison de Bois and Saint-Vincent’s twin towers reward a stroll. Then follow the riverfront or venture into the Mâconnais, famed for Chardonnay and villages such as Pouilly-Fuissé. Tasting rooms, market tables and quiet lanes offer a close look at Burgundy beyond its grandest names.

Tournon-sur-Rhone, France

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.

Viviers-sur-Rhone, France

Viviers stands on the Rhône in Ardèche, a compact medieval town best explored on foot. Stone lanes climb toward the Cathedral of Saint-Vincent, whose Romanesque origins and later additions reflect centuries of ecclesiastical power. Look for bishops’ residences, sculpted doorways and views across the river valley. Beyond town, Ardèche landscapes invite excursions to vineyards, limestone gorges and hill villages, while Viviers rewards those who linger.

Avignon, France

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.

Arles, France

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.

Villefranche-sur-Mer, France

Villefranche-sur-Mer makes an unusually graceful first impression: pastel houses rise above one of the Riviera’s deepest natural harbors. Wander the old town’s narrow lanes, then visit the 16th-century citadel and its museums. Jean Cocteau’s painted Chapel of Saint-Pierre adds a distinctive local detail. Nearby trains connect you with Nice; roads lead to Èze and the wider Côte d’Azur.

• Land Tour (Land Tour)