Relaxing Rhone River Cruise & Picturesque Provence

Day 1

We depart and make our way to Dover for the crossing to France. After continuing our journey, we arrive at our overnight hotel this evening.

Day 2

Our journey continues through the heart of France before we arrive in Lyon, the third largest city in France. Located in the heart of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, which is where we board our stunning A-Rosa river cruise. We enjoy a special welcome dinner onboard as we cast off and begin our cruise down the Rhône.

Day 3

This morning, we arrive in picturesque Tournon. Thanks to the region's mild climate, you'll find flourishing parklands and gardens throughout the area, including the beautiful Le Jardin d'Eden: an oasis of relaxation and is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers with a great selection of unique plants and trees. The village also has a lot to offer for connoisseurs of art and history with the interesting Castle Museum and sculpture exhibitions. In the mid-afternoon, we continue our cruise along the river towards Avignon.

Day 4

We awake in Avignon, an imposing, historic city once the home and the property of the Papacy. Known as 'the City-State of Popes', it enjoys a warm climate thanks to its proximity to the Mediterranean. Why not take advantage of our optional tour to explore this stunning city with a guided tour? We start our journey by 'mini-train' taking us through narrow alleys of the Ancient Quarter and past the numerous small city palaces, chapels and churches to the unmissable Palais du Pape (Pope's Palace). After exploring the Palace, we enjoy a short walking tour that takes you through the city and back towards the ship.

Day 5

Our ship sets sails early this morning while you sleep before arriving in Arles during breakfast. This sun-drenched Provençal city occupies a broad bend in the River Rhône, whilst many of its monuments have named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. What's more, Arles was once a great imperial port during the time of the Roman Empire with historical remnants of the occupation found throughout. Here, we include an excursion to The Camargue, a natural wonder and paradise where the land and sea merge, whilst providing a home to flocks of flamingos and famous white horses. We also visit Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a major pilgrimage site and a regional tourist hub with free time to explore.

Day 6

A full day in Arles today. Discover what makes this city so special as you stroll through what many consider to be the most beautiful city in France, following in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who spent a year creating numerous masterpieces here. Explore numerous Roman sights, with the impressive amphitheatre, and the beautiful old town are just some of the highlights. Our ship departs mid-evening.

Day 7

Arriving in Viviers this morning, enjoy free time to explore this small medieval city in the Ardèche region. Boasting numerous sights and well-preserved monuments from bygone ages, watch France's history come alive before your eyes, and enjoy the diverse range of attractions that the city has to offer. Alternatively, why not join us on our optional excursion to the Ardèche Gorges? Carved out of limestone, you'll find one of the most beautiful landscapes in France featuring numerous fairy-tale grottos and sweeping viewpoints. The day will also include a visit to one of the region's lavender producers where you will be shown the different types and species of lavender, as well as their usage in medicine, decoration and perfume production. The ship leaves Viviers late afternoon.

Day 8

Travelling via Vienne, we arrive back in Lyon this afternoon. A multifaceted city brimming with cultural and culinary delights, enjoy free time here to explore its Old Town, a UNESCO Word Heritage Site, home to narrow alleyways, rear courtyards, popular quays and large squares on the Presqu'île. Don't forget to try the coussins de Lyon - a sweet local speciality made from marzipan and chocolate. We spend our final night on board ship in Lyon.

Day 9

Your unforgettable river cruise on the Rhône comes to an end this morning, but not before you enjoy your final lavish breakfast on board. Afterwards, catch a glimpse of the beautiful city of Lyon before we travel to our overnight hotel.

Day 10

This morning, we travel for our return ferry crossing to the UK and before returning home.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner