Home » CRUISE NEWS » Discover Wine-Themed CroisiEurope River Cruise: Exclusive Journey Through France’s Scenic Rhône And Saône Rivers
Saturday, July 19, 2025
The leading river cruise line company, CroisiEurope, announced that it will take oenophiles on a wine-themed river cruise through the beautiful Rhône and Saône rivers. Launching in October 2026, this cruise guarantees a swanky seven-night escape, with a round-trip journey from Lyon. Sailing through the heart of the French wine-making region, passengers on the MS Rhône Princess can expect to experience France’s wine heritage, visiting picturesque towns, historic sites and naturally sampling some of the best regional wines.
The tour will include a variety of quintessential French towns, giving guests the unparalleled chance to explore the area’s culture and burgeoning wine scene. The cruise sounds like a terrific combination of history, art and of course, great wine.
Explore Iconic French Destinations Along the Rhône and Saône Rivers
This seven-night river cruise will be a scenic round-trip sailing from Lyon, one of France’s most celebrated cities, known for its culinary delights and historical significance. The ship will first set sail toward Macon, a town nestled in the heart of Burgundy’s wine-producing region, renowned for its picturesque vineyards and charming streets.
Next, the cruise will visit Vienne, a town steeped in Roman history, where visitors can explore ancient ruins and experience the town’s tranquil atmosphere. The next stop on the itinerary is Avignon, home to the famous Papal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The grand architecture of the palace and its rich history as the seat of the papacy in the 14th century will leave guests in awe.
From Avignon, the MS Rhône Princess will head to Arles, a city immortalized by the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh. Arles is where Van Gogh spent several productive years of his life, and passengers will have the chance to follow in his footsteps, visiting the iconic sites that inspired some of his most famous works, including the Café Terrace at Night.
The journey will then take passengers to The Camargue, a protected natural region famous for its wild beauty, salt flats, and unique wildlife, including the famous white horses. The last stops on the itinerary will include Viviers, a medieval village that boasts France’s smallest cathedral, and Tournon, a town celebrated for its stunning vineyards and historical sites.
Wine-Themed Experience: A Perfect Blend of Taste and Culture
A central aspect of this new wine-themed cruise is the immersive experience that CroisiEurope offers to wine lovers. Guests will have the chance to participate in wine-tasting sessions, where they can sample the best wines of the Rhône Valley, one of France’s most famous wine regions. Local sommeliers will guide passengers through tastings of renowned reds, whites, and rosés, providing insights into the distinctive characteristics of the local wines.
As part of the wine theme, the cruise will also feature regional food pairings, allowing guests to experience the rich flavors of French cuisine. Whether it’s a meal designed to complement a glass of Chablis in Macon or a Rhône Valley red wine paired with a delicious local dish, each stop along the river will offer a culinary and oenological delight.
CroisiEurope is known for its luxurious ships and impeccable service, and the MS Rhône Princess will be no exception. The ship offers comfortable cabins, an elegant dining room, and spacious decks, where guests can relax and take in the stunning views as the ship glides through the heart of France.
Historical and Cultural Highlights Along the Way
This wine-themed cruise also presents the perfect opportunity to delve into the history and culture of southern France. In addition to wine-tasting, the cruise itinerary includes several guided tours that will take passengers to some of the most iconic landmarks in the region.
In Avignon, the Papal Palace is not just a magnificent architectural feat, but also a symbol of the city’s importance in European history. The palace was once the residence of the Popes in the 14th century, and a visit to the site offers a fascinating look at the art, politics, and religious history of the time.
Arles, with its connection to Van Gogh, will be a dream come true for art enthusiasts. Walking tours will explore the artist’s former haunts and the locations that inspired his famous paintings. The charming streets of the town, along with the ancient Roman amphitheater, make it a perfect stop for those interested in history and art alike.
Meanwhile, the medieval village of Viviers will provide a peaceful retreat with its cobbled streets, centuries-old houses, and the smallest cathedral in France. The intimate atmosphere of this village offers a glimpse into France’s past, making it a highlight for travelers who appreciate historical exploration.
A Must-Do Experience for Wine and Culture Enthusiasts
For travelers who want a world-class wine, gorgeous scenery and rich cultural experiences all wrapped into one, CroisiEurope’s wine-themed cruise down the Rhône and Saône rivers is the ideal choice. Travelling from Lyon, passengers will have the chance to experience the splendour of southern France’s towns on the river banks, landmarks and leftfield culture.
Specially tailored for oenophiles, art lovers and history buffs your river cruise through Bordeaux region will surely please everyone in the most delightful way. Whether you are tasting wines in Macon, visiting the Papal Palace in Avignon, or following in the footsteps of Van Gogh in Arles, this cruise is a perfect combination of culture, history, and pure self-indulgence.
Source:
CroisiEuropeFrench Ministry of CultureTourisme Rhône-Alpes