Embark on an 8-day cruise from Nice to Lyon aboard the Scenic Sapphire. Explore the Rhone and Saone rivers. Travel through France’s gastronomic and cultural heart, passing historic cities, medieval villages, and renowned vineyards. Experience Roman ruins, hilltop castles, cathedrals, and hidden passageways, all while enjoying regional cuisine. This curated itinerary offers an immersive look at southern France’s rich heritage, blending architectural marvels with authentic culinary experiences and diverse landscapes, from rolling hills to vibrant urban centers. Discover why this region is a cornerstone of French identity and tradition.

Highlights

Explore beautiful Lyon, renowned as the gastronomic heart of France
Tour Macon’s region for Burgundy wines and historic French chateaux
Wander Avignon’s papal palace and iconic half-bridge over the Rhone
Enjoy a walking tour of the ancient town of Viviers

Activities

Places Visited

Activity Level: Variable

Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.

Full Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Nice | Tarascon | Embark

Accommodation
1 Dinner

Upon arrival in Nice, transfer to Tarascon to board your ship. Settle into your elegant suite or unwind with a drink on the Sun Deck as you take in the scenic surroundings.

This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail reception hosted by your friendly crew.

Please ensure your flight arrives in Nice before 12:00 PM.

Day 2: Arles | Avignon

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

This morning, arrive in Arles, a historic city founded by Julius Caesar. Renowned for its extensive Roman heritage, Arles is believed to hold the greatest concentration of Roman ruins outside of Rome. In 1888, it also served as a creative haven for Vincent Van Gogh, who found inspiration in its landscapes for many of his iconic works.

Freechoice

Guided tour of Arles: Take a short walk from your ship to the heart of Arles. Arles is the site of some impressive Roman ruins, including Las Arenas, an amphitheater that seats 20,000 and is still in use today. Experience the vibrant colors and striking quality of light on your tour of Arles, a city that has inspired many artists.

Les Baux & Olive Farm visit: Drive to the town of Les Baux, located in Les Alpilles range of mountains, passing through olive groves and vineyards. The medieval city is dominated by the ruins of the fortified 11th century castle, where the powerful Le Baux family ruled for 600 years until the 15th century. The cobblestoned old town is very attractive and is home to many shops, cafes and restaurants. Visit an olive farm and enjoy a tasting.

On board painting class: Vincent Van Gogh once said, 'The whole future of art is to be found in the South of France.' Learn about the artistic heritage of this region while joining an on board painting class.

Lavender Fields to Cream: A Provence Herbal Workshop: The Provence region is renowned for its stunning landscapes and the production of aromatic herbs, particularly lavender. At certain times of the year (typically from late June to mid-August), fields are transformed into a breathtaking sea of purple. On this excursion, you can visit a local organic farm specializing in the production of essential oils from lavender, thyme, rosemary, and other Provençal herbs. Discover the health benefits of these plants, learn the process of essential oil extraction, and create your own lavender-based cream to take home.

After lunch, your ship will sail towards Avignon. Admire the rolling landscapes in the comfort of your Suite or perhaps relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar.

Day 3: Avignon

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Known as the City of the Popes, Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture but has a youthful energy to it with a buzzing arts scene. The former 14th century papal capital is circled by city walls, home to the magnificent World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d’Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea.

Freechoice

Guided walking tour: From the ship, be guided on a walk in Avignon to the historic city walls and the Pope’s Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. Avignon is filled with cobblestoned streets and the palace comprises numerous steps, so a moderate degree of fitness is required for this tour.

Excursion to Pont Du Gard: Visit the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, on a guided tour. Dating to the middle of the first century, this engineering masterpiece was designed to carry water to the city of Nîmes.

Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Gourmands can join Scenic’s on board chef on a visit to a local food market where you can have an opportunity to shop for and taste the best ingredients this region has to offer. Upon returning to your ship, head to the Scenic Culinaire cooking school for an interactive cooking demonstration making some of France’s most popular and delicious dishes using the ingredients you have just bought.

Wine tasting in Chateauneuf du Pape: The fertile banks of the Rhône are peppered with Côte du Rhône vineyards, including at the village of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, where centuries of wine production make for a very fascinating history. Take this opportunity to sample some of the region’s most celebrated wines.

This afternoon is at your leisure to further explore Avignon at your own pace. If you’re feeling energetic, wander up Le Rocher des Doms some 30 meters above the Rhône, which provides excellent views over the city and river, as well as a pretty English-style garden with shady trees, fountains and ponds.

Enrich

Classical Concert at Pope’s Palace: After the doors close to the general public, you gain exclusive access to the Pope’s Palace in Avignon for a private classical concert. With a glass of Champagne, you can witness virtuoso musicians performing Mozart, Bach and Vivaldi in this 14th-century palace.

Day 4: Viviers | Vienne

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

This morning, arrive in Viviers, often described as an open-air museum for its rich medieval heritage and architecture.

Freechoice

Walking tour of Viviers: Enjoy a walking tour with your local guide to explore Viviers, a town with an important heritage and rich past. Admire the many monuments and architectural treasures such as the Cathedral of St. Vincent, which was first built in the 11th century and is resplendent in 18th-century gothic style and a Renaissance facade. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Viviers at your leisure.

French Resistance Walking Tour: During a walking tour of Viviers, learn about the French Resistance, who fought against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Hear local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic town.

Excursion to Grignan de Provence: Join your local guide on an exploration to the beautiful provincial town of Grignan. See the mighty castle that dominates the town as well as the Collegiate Church of the Holy Savior before enjoying some time at leisure in this beautiful region of France.

This afternoon will be spent on board cruising towards Vienne. Perhaps you’d like to join a class in Scenic Culinaire to sharpen your skills in French cookery by learning how to make a delicious regional dish.

Day 5: Vienne

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Cruising along the Rhône River, your ship will arrive in Vienne. Boasting a 2,000-year history, this city is blanketed with Roman history, including a terraced theater, first century temple, ancient baths, and the Vienne Pyramid, which was the site of the Roman circus where chariot races would have been held.

Freechoice

Walking tour of Vienne with Roman Theater: Take a walking tour in Vienne to uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. Visit one of the best-preserved Roman theaters, which was built against the steep slopes of a hill and housed more than 10,000 spectators.

Cycling tour of Vienne: On this cycling tour through Vienne and neighboring Saint-Romain-en-Gal, you can see abundant evidence of the city’s glory days as a Roman provincial center. A marvellously preserved Roman temple stands proud in the town center, a monument to Emperor Augustus and his wife Livia. On the opposite bank of the river are the ruins of a once-thriving district complete with bath houses, villas and industries. A museum exhibits some of the magnificent mosaics and artefacts found here. Nature lovers will enjoy the detour upstream to the Ile Barlet, a river island boasting poplar groves, alluvial forest and wild orchids.

Day 6: Macon

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Wake up this morning in the town of Macon, which will be your base for exploring the surrounding south Burgundy region. Macon sits right on the edge of the river, with pretty pastel-hued buildings, ancient churches and picturesque quays. It is close to the Burgundy wine region, one of the most famous in France, producing exceptional chardonnay, pinot noir, gamay and sparkling.

Freechoice

Beaujolais region: Drive through the rolling hills of the world-famous Beaujolais wine region and meet a local vintner. Discover how this wine is produced and enjoy the privilege of sampling some of the region’s best drops.

Excursion to Cluny and Cluny Abbey: Step back in time to the medieval town of Cluny, which is famous for its Benedictine Abbey, which was once the largest Christian building in the world. Tour the impressive town, learn about its history and soak up its charm during free time.

Excursion to Chateau de Cormatin: Transfer by coach to the historic Chateau de Cormatin, built in 1606. The castle boasts a fascinating history and has been lovingly restored back to its original glory. Admire the castle’s gilded rooms, moat, water features and more than 10 hectares of manicured gardens on a guided tour.

Goat Farm Visit with tasting: Visit an organic goat cheese farm and learn about open air farming, as well as the wild herbs that goats eat that makes milk much more tasteful. You can also have the opportunity to taste some of the delectable cheese produced on site accompanied with a glass of locally produced wine.

Day 7: Lyon

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Immerse yourself in the charm of Lyon today, France’s third largest city and one of its most culturally vibrant, with a blend of fascinating history and a sophisticated dining and shopping scene. Sitting at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the city was founded by the Romans in 43BC. Since the mid-1500s it has been a financial and industrial powerhouse and today is recognised as France’s culinary capital. The city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants, including 20 that hold Michelin stars – eating well is a way of life here.

Freechoice

Guided tour of Lyon: Discover Lyon’s historic significance by traversing its hidden traboules, secret passageways that date back to the 4th Century, and visit Notre Dame Basilica, offering a fabulous vantage point for views across Lyon.

Excursion to Perouges: Visit the medieval walled village of Perouges, perched atop a hill overlooking the Ain River. This enchanting village has been beautifully preserved since the 14th century and is one of the most picturesque in the region, featuring vine-covered stone buildings, cobbled laneways and a market square centered around a centuries-old lime tree. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces and a lot of walking both up and down hill, this tour is recommended only for guests with a high degree of fitness.

Silk Painting Workshop: Lyon has a rich heritage in silk production that dates back almost five centuries when Louis XI chose the city as a potential base for the silk weaving industry. In the 19th century silk was one of the city’s largest industries. During a workshop, learn about the history and process of silk production.

Guided cycling tour to Tete d’or Park: With a local guide, cycle along Lyon’s many bike lanes to charming Tete d’or Park. At 105 hectares, it is one of France’s largest urban parks and features a sprawling lake, with Souvenir Island at its center, a botanical garden, rose garden and greenhouse, and a zoo.

This evening, enjoy the extraordinary all-inclusive dining experiences on board your ship. Enjoy culinary creations inspired by this wonderful region.

Day 8: Lyon | Disembark

1 Breakfast

Depart after a wonderful farewell breakfast. From here, transfer to the Lyon airport for your onward journey, taking away a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. Please refer to the terms and conditions.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Sapphire

Scenic Sapphire boasts all luxury amenities, as well as a handful of new and innovative features. From the vitality pool and updated wellness area to the bespoke cooking suite, guests can enjoy a raft of extravagant features when cruising along French waterways aboard Scenic Sapphire.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

List View | Calendar View

Jul 6, 2025from $11,590
Aug 29, 2025from $11,590
Oct 22, 2025from $11,590
May 3, 2026from $12,890
Jul 16, 2026from $12,490
Aug 29, 2026from $12,490
Oct 2, 2026from $12,490

<	Jul 2025					>
S	M	T	W	T	F	S
29	30	1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30	31	1	2

Deal available

See more versions of this cruise

Deals

Special Deals 27517: Book your Scenic Eclipse cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $2000 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to GP, OP, OT, SB, SA, S or P cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $250 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Scenic Eclipse Cruises
Special Deals 27518: Book your Scenic River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,500 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD, RS or RJ cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Scenic River Cruises

Per person starting at

$11,590

Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.

Select a Date

Standard Suite E

160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Select a Date

Standard Suite D

Select a Date

Single Balcony Suite BS

160ft2. Single Balcony Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Select a Date

Balcony Suite C

205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Select a Date

Balcony Suite BA

Select a Date

Balcony Suite BB

Select a Date

Balcony Suite B

Select a Date

Junior Balcony Suite BJ

250ft2. These spacious Suites are located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

Select a Date

Balcony Suite A

205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, these suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Select a Date

Balcony Suite PA

Select a Date

Balcony Suite PP

Select a Date

Balcony Suite P

Select a Date

Junior Balcony Suite RJ

250ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

Select a Date

Royal Balcony Suite RA

315ft2. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

Select a Date

Royal Panorama Suite RS

At 325ft², and at the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.

Select a Date

Royal Owner's Suite RO

510ft2. including outdoor balcony. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.

Payment Details

Terms & Conditions

Operated by Scenic Cruises

Included

7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages

Excluded

Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

Map

Inquire

We Love to Talk Travel

Call 1.800.344.6118
or
Chat Now

Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!

Meyer Smolen

Idyllic Rhone

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Nice | Tarascon | Embark

Day 2: Arles | Avignon

Day 3: Avignon

Day 4: Viviers | Vienne

Day 5: Vienne

Day 6: Macon

Day 7: Lyon

Day 8: Lyon | Disembark

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Sapphire

Scenic Sapphire

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Notes

Map

Inquire

We Love to Talk Travel

Top Rhone River Travel Destinations

Rhone River Trips by Departure Date

Top Experiences in Rhone River

Rhone River Trips by Activity

Why Travel With Adventure Life

Recognized By