Rhône Route Intensive

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.

What a city! Everyone should see Lyon if they have the opportunity. With its old town – a UNESCO Word Heritage Site – its narrow alleyways, rear courtyards, popular quays and large squares on the Presqu’île, as well as the more than 200 sights that are illuminated after dark, this city takes visitors on an extraordinary journey through different eras and cultures. And right on its doorstep, to the north-west, is Beaujolais. Enjoy fine food and wine and spellbinding views on your Rhône cruise. Idyllic destinations await you here.

Today your A-ROSA ship is on the Saône, having left the Rhône far behind, and Tournus is right at the heart of this region. The French town is almost exactly halfway between Mâcon and Chalon-sur-Saône. After a short stop here, the ship will take you to the next port of call on the Rhône and Saône itinerary.

Your idyllic Rhône cruise will now call at Chalon-sur-Saône. Its 80,000 inhabitants make it the second-largest city in Burgundy today. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Saône region by bicycle or visit the city, with its many beautiful old townhouses and the Cathédrale Saint-Vincent, which is definitely worth seeing.

Welcome to the French town of Mâcon, the capital of the department of Saône-et-Loire. Mâcon is also the southernmost city in the Burgundy region and the centre of the Mâconnais district. Many guidebooks describe it as the ‘Gateway to Beaujolais’. The friendly, almost Mediterranean character of Mâcon’s inhabitants is underscored by a veritable sea of flowers in the city. You are sure to enjoy your time here.

The town houses and the former palace of the Parliament of Dombes still bear witness to its time as the capital of the Duchy of Dombes. The tower of the 14th-century feudal castle also offers a magnificent view of the Saône and the surrounding countryside.

Viviers, France, is a charming medieval town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, it features narrow, winding streets, ancient stone houses, and the impressive Saint-Vincent Cathedral. The town's Roman and medieval heritage is evident in its old ramparts and historic buildings. Viviers' tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings offer a glimpse into the past, making it a delightful destination for history lovers and those seeking a serene escape.

This small medieval city in the Ardèche region is absolutely unmissable. It boasts numerous sights and is dotted with well-preserved monuments from bygone ages. Here in the Rhône region, the typical French attitude to life is also very apparent. Watch France’s history come alive in Viviers, and enjoy the diverse range of attractions that the city has to offer.

Around 40 kilometres south of Arles and some 65 kilometres west of Marseilles is the small port city of Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. The town is located on the left bank of the Rhône, just a few kilometres from the mouth of the river to the Mediterranean Sea. Here you’ll have the opportunity to become better acquainted with the Camargue and the Rhône. And the view from the Saint Louis tower will confirm just how stunning the Rhône region really is.

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.

Arles in southern France is the Provençal city par excellence. This sun-drenched city of terracotta-tiled rooftops occupies a broad bend in the River Rhône. Many of its monuments have named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. What’s more, Arles was once a great Roman port. As if all that weren’t reason enough to visit, the city was also home to Vincent van Gogh for a while. Did you know that?

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.

Arles in southern France is the Provençal city par excellence. This sun-drenched city of terracotta-tiled rooftops occupies a broad bend in the River Rhône. Many of its monuments have named UNESCO World Heritage Sites. What’s more, Arles was once a great Roman port. As if all that weren’t reason enough to visit, the city was also home to Vincent van Gogh for a while. Did you know that?

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.

Avignon is one of the most popular ports of call on A-ROSA’s Rhône cruises. It is an imposing, historic city in southern France that was home to several of the Catholic popes at one time. Make sure to visit the unique and unmissable Palais des Papes on an excursion to Avignon’s ancient quarter. The city and the surrounding region have a warm climate thanks to the Mediterranean – which means a pleasant stay for you!

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.

Avignon is one of the most popular ports of call on A-ROSA’s Rhône cruises. It is an imposing, historic city in southern France that was home to several of the Catholic popes at one time. Make sure to visit the unique and unmissable Palais des Papes on an excursion to Avignon’s ancient quarter. The city and the surrounding region have a warm climate thanks to the Mediterranean – which means a pleasant stay for you!

Picturesque Tournon lies on the bank of the Rhône – you will be able to admire it from the river. The Rhône region’s mild climate has allowed Le Jardin d’Eden park in Tournon to really flourish. It is a real oasis of relaxation. For nature lovers, it’s also the perfect place for discovering new plants and trees, and is a must-see attraction. The town, which is near Lyon, also has a lot to offer for culture fans and history buffs.

The multifaceted Vienne was once an important Roman city and, thanks to its location on the Rhône, the gateway to the heart of France. A number of ancient buildings from this period can still be seen today. For example, there is a Roman theatre, which is still used for events such as the summer jazz festival. There is also a very well preserved Roman temple in Vienne, surrounded by an impressive portico.

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.

What a city! Everyone should see Lyon if they have the opportunity. With its old town – a UNESCO Word Heritage Site – its narrow alleyways, rear courtyards, popular quays and large squares on the Presqu’île, as well as the more than 200 sights that are illuminated after dark, this city takes visitors on an extraordinary journey through different eras and cultures. And right on its doorstep, to the north-west, is Beaujolais. Enjoy fine food and wine and spellbinding views on your Rhône cruise. Idyllic destinations await you here.

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.

What a city! Everyone should see Lyon if they have the opportunity. With its old town – a UNESCO Word Heritage Site – its narrow alleyways, rear courtyards, popular quays and large squares on the Presqu’île, as well as the more than 200 sights that are illuminated after dark, this city takes visitors on an extraordinary journey through different eras and cultures. And right on its doorstep, to the north-west, is Beaujolais. Enjoy fine food and wine and spellbinding views on your Rhône cruise. Idyllic destinations await you here.