Summary
From the slopes of the scenic winelands to the hills of Provence, and the beauty of the French landscape to the medieval splendour of Avignon, enjoy a fascinating cruise to one of the most picturesque corners of France.
Our journey through France takes us along the beautiful Saône and Rhône rivers, which have been the preferred routes for traders and invaders since the dawn of recorded history. Everywhere we look, there are reminders of the Romans and the greatest empire of the ancient world. We will enjoy guided tours of Lyon and Beaune, including a visit to the Hôtel-Dieu.
In Vienne, we will sample the wines of the Rhône Valley at Tain l’Hermitage. You will be amazed by the engineering brilliance of the amphitheatre in Arles and the impressive aqueduct at the Pont du Gard. Avignon served as the seat of the Papacy during medieval times, marking a century of greatness highlighted by the fascinating Papal Palace and its Renaissance art collection.
All of this is set against the backdrop of some of France’s stunning natural beauty, such as the sheer limestone cliffs of the Ardèche Gorges. It’s no wonder that Van Gogh created some of his greatest works in Provence!
Themes: History & Culture
Itinerary & Map
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace...
Full description
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace...
Full description
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout l...
Full description
Tain-l'Hermitage, France, is a picturesque town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Syrah and Hermitage varietals. N...
Full description
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history f...
Full description
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history f...
Full description
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace...
Full description
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace...
Full description
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout l...
Full description
Tain-l'Hermitage, France, is a picturesque town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Syrah and Hermitage varietals. N...
Full description
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history f...
Full description
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history f...
Full descriptionDAY 1
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.
DAY 3
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.
DAY 4
Tain-l'Hermitage, France, is a picturesque town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Syrah and Hermitage varietals. Nestled along the Rhône River and surrounded by lush vineyards, it offers scenic views and a charming atmosphere. The town features historic sites like the 12th-century Hermitage Chapel and the Cité du Chocolat, celebrating local culinary delights. With its blend of fine wine, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Tain-l'Hermitage is a captivating destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a taste of Provence.
DAY 7
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.
Dates & prices
Flights included from London Heathrow, London Gatwick, Manchester and Bristol
Departs
Thu 26 Oct 2028
MS Lord Byron
Solo from £3,699 pp
Enquire now Call 020 7590 0610Per person, travelling alone, flights included. Updated daily and confirmed when you book. Flights from UK airports only.