Sail along the storied rivers of France – the perfect choice for a magical voyage. You’re guaranteed to gain an appreciation of why this culturally rich and historic region is one of the world’s most popular destinations. Discover its many wonders from the comfort of a luxurious river cruise ship.
Explore romantic cities, stroll through history in such charming villages as Provence. Foodies, art lovers, fashionistas and romantics will be in their glory as cafes, boutiques and museums abound in this region. These itineraries also provide the ideal destination for a pre- and/or post-cruise land package, giving you more time to explore a variety of places, including Paris, “the City of Lights.”
Experience the magnificence of France and “l’art de vivre” French-style on a journey unlike any other. Join “café society” as you relax at a chic café with a bottle of wine, accompanied by a delicious regional French cheese and a scrumptious, crunchy, freshly-baked baguette or enjoy them from your ship’s balcony as you gaze upon the magnificent scenery. French rivers evoke a sense of history, romance and of course, culinary delights, which are synonymous with the country. Savor gastronomic masterpieces in Lyon and world-famous fine wines of Bordeaux, Burgundy and Beaujolais.
Whichever river you choose, it’s un excellent choix!
Seine River
Cruises on the Seine River are ideal for those who want to spend time in Paris, pay their respects at Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches and enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way. One of France’s prettiest harbors is Honfleur, with its old dock, the “Vieux Bassin,” dating back to the 17th century. The charming town center is lined with intimate cafés, boutiques, art galleries and more.
Glide past ever-changing landscapes, including gorgeous scenery immortalized by van Gogh. Step into a Claude Monet painting when you visit his legendary and beautiful Giverny Gardens. See for yourself how the unique lighting here inspired that work.
From the sparkling Eiffel Tower at night, to the Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame Cathedral, Paris is filled with incredible offerings. Art-lovers will want to spend time at the famous Louvre museum, home to priceless art works, including da Vinci’s iconic Mona Lisa. Stroll along one of the world’s most famous streets — Champs-Élysées in Paris – lined with high-end designer shops and chic restaurants.
Rhône & Saône Rivers
Glide along the storied Rhône River, often combined with a Saône River itinerary, past timeless landscapes into the gastronomic heart of France. Foodies and wine connoisseurs will be in their element as they travel to such destinations as Burgundy, Provence and the South of France.
A highlight will be meandering through serene wine-clad country towns and villages with half-timbered buildings and cathedrals. Journey through the same sunflower-filled landscapes that influenced Vincent van Gogh and see his home in Arles. Tour legendary vineyards and enjoy wine-tastings and visit medieval cities. Taste your way through Lyon, the capital of French gastronomy and witness the natural beauty which served as inspiration for artists Chagall and Cézanne.
Wine enthusiasts will want to cruise on the Rhône River for the world-famous vineyards of Burgundy and Provence. Throughout this leisurely journey, you’ll have ample opportunities to see this scenic wine-growing region’s abundant hillside vineyards and incredible fields of fragrant lavender. Spend quality time in the historic and charming villages of Provence. Among the most picturesque in France is Arles, where the famous battle of Arles took place, plus Avignon, where you can explore Palace of the Popes, one of Europe’s largest Gothic buildings.
Loire
Journey through the fairytale region of the Loire Valley and enjoy the stunning views of fabled cities along its historic banks. Discover the special beauty of this region on a Loire river cruise and see why it is known as the “Garden of France,” with magnificent châteaux and breathtaking gardens which were designed for royalty. This unique voyage provides convenient access to the many quaint villages along the river and the magical countryside. Visit some of the majestic châteaux that dot the valley and explore Angers, the capital of historic Anjou.
Bordeaux (Garonne and Dordogne Rivers & Gironde Estuary)
Experience an amazing journey when you visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site port city of Bordeaux — a paradise for wine lovers with its world-famous vineyards. The breathtaking estuary and majestic châteaux here will leave you spellbound. Visit charming Pauillac, gateway to the fabled Medoc wine route and the legendary Bordeaux region. Savor exquisite culinary delights and wine tastings in the world-famous cellars of Saint-Émilion. From artisanal wine-pairing lunches to learning about the finest Cognac at the House of Rémy Martin, culinary cruisers will feel they have reached nirvana.
Whichever French river cruise and itinerary you select, you will be offered the opportunity to see up-close and personal the many wonders of one of the world’s most cultural regions in all its glory and grandeur. Fragrant lavender fields of Provence, world-famous vineyards of Bordeaux, the historic sites of WW II and of course, Paris, the storied rivers of France have it all. No matter how many times you may have visited here, you haven’t really seen it until you have experienced it from the comfort of a relaxing river cruise ship.
Indulge all of your senses in a French river cruise and discover how these destinations were meant to be explored. Throughout your incredible journey, you will be pampered. Enjoy spacious accommodations, exemplary service and luxury onboard amenities as you are escorted in style from one fabulous place to another. Consider the many inclusions and you’ll soon understand why this is both an exceptional value for your vacation budget and experience for your bucket list!
For more information on fabulous French river cruises and our cruise deals, visit us at Cruise.com or contact one of our cruise experts at 1-888-776-0659.