6 nights · France · River cruise · Departs Lyon (France) · Visiting Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or, Tournon-sur-Rhone, Avignon, Arles, Viviers-sur-Rhone, La Voulte-sur-Rhone · Aboard CroisiEurope on the ms Mistral
Image courtesy of CroisiEurope ©
This river cruise sails the Saone and Rhone, departing Lyon.
| Cruise line | CroisiEurope |
|---|---|
| Ship | ms Mistral |
| Duration | 6 nights |
| Port calls | 7 |
| Departures | 2 sailings |
| From fare | $693 per person |
| Year built | 1999 |
| Guests | 158 |
| Cabins | 79 |
| Crew | 23 |
| Length | 110 m |
| Beam | 10 m |
| Cruising speed | 9.0 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.
Collonges-au-Mont-d’Or lies just north of Lyon, beside the Saône, amid leafy lanes and handsome homes. The village is closely associated with chef Paul Bocuse; his famous Auberge du Pont de Collonges stands here. Expect a quieter introduction to the region before Lyon’s grand squares, Roman remains and renowned food markets. Follow the river south for the city’s museums, architecture and unmistakable culinary heritage.
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.
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.
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.
Set on the Rhône in Ardèche, La Voulte-sur-Rhône is a quiet gateway to the river valley. Above the old town, its medieval château recalls a settlement shaped by trade and regional rivalries. Explore the riverside quays and narrow streets, then look across the water to the Drôme. Valence, with its historic centre and lively cafés, lies a short drive south. The broad river landscapes offer a rewarding change from larger ports.
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.
Published September 6, 2026
Last updated October 20, 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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