Rhône River cruises in brief:
Most itineraries run between Lyon and Arles or Avignon
Cruises mix Roman ruins, medieval towns and wine country
Expect a strong focus on food, especially regional specialities
Key stops include Lyon, Avignon, Arles, Viviers, Vienne and Tournon-sur-Rhône
Many cruises offer excursions to Provence, the Camargue and wine regions like Châteauneuf-du-Pape

What makes the Rhône River cruise-worthy

Cruising the Rhône offers a journey through some of France's most culturally and historically rich landscapes. From Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, to Roman arenas and medieval papal palaces, the route is steeped in history.

The scenery shifts from vineyard-covered hills to the sun-bleached stone of Provence. With many stops accessible only by smaller vessels, cruising allows travellers to bypass busy roads and enjoy slow travel through picturesque, less-visited towns. Food and wine are central, with excursions often centred on tastings, markets and local producers.

What is the best time to cruise the Rhône River?

July and August are the months for lavender fields, but the weather is hot, and crowds are at their peak. Spring can be a lovely time to cruise, though temperatures may still be cool early in the season. Autumn brings the grape harvest and changing vineyard colours, but daylight hours are shorter and the weather is less reliable. Read our full guide to the best time to cruise the Rhône River.

The main ports on the Rhône River

Lyon

Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is often the starting or finishing point for Rhône River cruises. With its position at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône, Lyon has grown into a city layered with history. From ancient Roman settlements to its status as a Renaissance trading hub, it also built a global reputation as a centre of gastronomy. It's a dynamic, walkable city where Roman ruins sit near silk-weaving alleyways and Michelin-starred restaurants.

Must-dos: Wander through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, visit the Roman amphitheatre and try the local bouchon cuisine. The Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière offers sweeping views and a striking interior.

Don't overlook: The traboules. These hidden passageways once helped silk workers navigate the city unseen and are now a distinctive feature of Lyon's historic architecture.

Viviers

Viviers is a quiet medieval town that offers a glimpse into the less-visited corners of southern France. Perched along the Rhône, it was once a powerful bishopric and its old quarter still reflects that ecclesiastical past. Time moves slowly here, with narrow lanes winding between houses of faded grandeur and occasional views over the river valley.

Must-dos: Stroll through the quiet streets of the old town and visit the Cathedral of Saint Vincent, which sits above the town with views over the Rhône.

Don't overlook: The bishop's residence, usually open for guided tours, has a beautifully preserved interior and interesting history tied to the region's religious politics.

Avignon

Avignon is a city shaped by centuries of papal power, and its historic centre remains enclosed by medieval walls. For a brief period in the 14th century, it served as the seat of the Catholic Church, and much of the architecture today reflects that prominence. Despite the religious grandeur, Avignon also feels distinctively Provençal, with shaded squares, bustling markets and a relaxed pace.

Must-dos: Tour the palace itself, cross the famous Pont Saint-Bénézet (Pont d'Avignon) and explore the walled city centre. The central market, Les Halles, is also worth a stop.

Don't overlook: Rue des Teinturiers, a shaded, waterwheel-lined street that hints at Avignon's industrial past and offers a quieter walking route just off the main tourist track.

Vienne

Vienne, once a major Roman city, sits just south of Lyon and retains many signs of its classical past. Today it's a thriving regional hub with regular markets, riverside cafés and an impressive line-up of cultural events. The Roman architecture, particularly the well-preserved theatre and temple, give it a unique identity.

Must-dos: The Roman theatre is still used for concerts and the Temple of Augustus and Livia is remarkably well preserved. Take the funicular up to Mont Pipet for a panoramic view.

Don't overlook: The Museum of Fine Arts and Archaeology. Less visited than the ruins, it offers valuable context on the area's layered history.

Arles

Arles sits at the meeting point of Roman and Provençal traditions. Once a thriving Roman city, its legacy is visible in the well-preserved amphitheatre and other ancient monuments. Later, the city drew artists like Van Gogh, who painted many of his most famous works here. It’s a place where layers of history, art and daily life overlap in the sun-drenched streets.

Must-dos: Explore the Roman amphitheatre and the nearby theatre, then follow the Van Gogh trail through the town to see scenes the artist painted. The LUMA art complex also brings cutting-edge exhibitions to the city.

Don't overlook: The Alyscamps necropolis. Once one of the most famous burial grounds in Europe, it has a haunting beauty and is slightly off the main visitor route.

Tournon-sur-Rhône and Tain-l'Hermitage

Separated by a pedestrian bridge over the river, Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage offer two sides of the Rhône Valley. Tain is dominated by its vineyards and modern tasting rooms, while Tournon is a more traditional riverside town with a castle and leafy embankment. Together, they give a snapshot of rural life and wine culture in the north of the region.

Must-dos: Visit the Hermitage vineyards for a tasting, walk the pedestrian bridge between the towns and tour Tournon's castle, which now houses a small museum.

Don't overlook: The Cité du Chocolat in Tain. This interactive museum and tasting experience run by Valrhona is a hit even with those who aren't chocoholics.

Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône

Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, where the Rhône meets the Mediterranean, is a quieter stop on many Rhône River cruises, offering a blend of history and natural beauty. Though it's a small port town with a maritime feel, it acts as the gateway to the Camargue National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve famous for its wild horses, flamingos and bulls.

Must-dos: Explore the wetlands of the Camargue with boat tours or birdwatching walks. Head to the nearby beaches for a relaxing afternoon, or discover the unique wildlife in the surrounding nature reserves.

Don’t overlook: The Étang de l'Arnel, a serene lagoon just outside of the town, is a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful nature retreat away from the crowds.

Hidden gems and unmissable excursions

Pont du Gard

One of the best-preserved Roman aqueducts in the world, Pont du Gard is a short drive from Avignon. It's both a technical marvel and an atmospheric place to walk, swim or picnic. Guided tours often include historical insights as well as time to explore on foot.

Les Baux-de-Provence

Perched on a rocky plateau, this fortified village offers panoramic views and ruins of a medieval castle. The Carrières de Lumières, an immersive digital art show inside a former quarry, is a surprise highlight that changes each season.

Ardèche Gorges

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of Europe", the Ardèche Gorges offer dramatic limestone cliffs, river caves and kayaking routes. Cruises may offer a half-day tour with stops at viewpoints or a gentle walk to see the Pont d'Arc, a natural rock bridge spanning the river.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Synonymous with some of the most prestigious wine in the Rhône Valley, this hilltop village is a must for wine lovers. Most excursions include a cellar tour and tasting but it's also worth climbing to the ruins of the Pope's summer palace for views across the vines.

Train de l'Ardèche

This heritage steam train runs through the Doux Valley offering a relaxed ride through the Ardèche countryside. It departs from Tournon and is especially popular with train enthusiasts and families.

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