10 nights · France · River cruise · Departs Avignon (France) · Visiting Arles, Le Pouzin, Vienne, Beaune, Lyon · Aboard Riviera Travel on the MS Thomas Hardy
Image courtesy of Riviera Travel ©
This river cruise sails the Rhone and Saone, departing Avignon.
| Cruise line | Riviera Travel |
|---|---|
| Ship | MS Thomas Hardy |
| Duration | 10 nights |
| Port calls | 6 |
| Departures | 11 sailings |
| From fare | $3,198 per person |
| Year built | 2016 |
| Guests | 176 |
| Cabins | 88 |
| Crew | 44 |
| Length | 135 m |
| Beam | 12 m |
| Cruising speed | 13.0 kn |
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.
Le Pouzin stands beside the Rhône in southern Ardèche, where river routes meet quiet country roads. Its setting opens onto the Rhône Valley, with limestone slopes, vineyards and villages within reach. Nearby Privas, Ardèche’s compact capital, rewards a visit for its markets and celebrated chestnut specialities. Come for broad river views and an easy introduction to a less-visited corner of southeastern France.
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.
Beaune puts Burgundy’s celebrated wine country within easy reach, with vineyards beginning just beyond its medieval walls. Start at the Hôtel-Dieu, the 15th-century hospital whose patterned tiled roof has become the town’s emblem. Then follow the old ramparts to cellars where Pinot Noir and Chardonnay reveal their differences. The Saturday market brings local cheeses, mustard and seasonal produce into the streets. Allow time for lunch; Beaune rewards an unhurried visit.
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 August 24, 2026
Last updated October 11, 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.
We work hard to make sure everything on this website is accurate and up to date. However, some information may be incomplete or inaccurate, including details supplied by third parties or otherwise outside our control, and we cannot be held responsible for such errors. We work with 41 cruise line operators, that are providing cruises on 585 ships visiting 1,731 ports across 7,194 unique cruises, creating 13,822 itineraries. This is a great deal of data to continually update daily from our suppliers. If a pricing error, misrepresentation, or omission occurs, we reserve the right to adjust the pricing, correct the information, or cancel or decline any booking made in error, with notice to you. Thank you for your understanding!
