Avignon to Lyon: My Unforgettable Rhone River Cruise with Viking

Embarking on a Viking Rhone River cruise is like stepping into a living tapestry of southeastern France. The river weaves through landscapes where history and culture blend effortlessly, from sunlit vineyards and ancient stone villages to bustling markets and grand architectural marvels. Each bend in the river reveals a new scene, a different story, inviting you to slow down and savor the journey. It’s a voyage that connects you not just to the places you visit, but to the rhythms of life along one of Europe’s most enchanting waterways. Come along as I share the details of my journey on this Rhone River Cruise with Viking, from the charming towns and memorable excursions, to the unique on-board experiences that made this an unforgettable trip.

Arrival in Marseilles: The Start of a Journey

Touching down in Marseilles, the gateway to our Viking River cruise on the Rhone, felt like the beginning of a grand adventure. The air was cool and tinged with the scent of the Mediterranean, and the anticipation of the journey ahead made every step feel lighter. My nephew Shane joined me on this trip; although, calling him my nephew doesn’t quite capture the dynamic—we’re more like buddies, nearly the same age, with a unique connection. (If you’d like to learn more about our story, check out my article on “Six Degrees of Sibling Separation.”)

By some stroke of luck, we both arrived at the Marseilles airport within thirty minutes of each other, despite coming from different cities on separate flights. We met up near the baggage claim, exchanged greetings, and within minutes were on a shuttle bus heading toward the bustling Marseilles train station. For just €10 each, the 30-minute ride whisked us through parts of the city, hinting at the places we’d later explore.

Our hotel was conveniently located just across the street from the station, making it easy to drop off our bags and head straight out to discover what Marseilles had to offer. Despite a thick overcast sky and occasional drizzle, our spirits weren’t dampened. We wandered down to the historic port area, where we marveled at the imposing forts and grand Basilicas that stood watch over the harbor for hundreds of years. As a matter of fact, Marseilles is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe, dating back more than 2500 years. After an afternoon of exploration, and running on little more than the excitement of the trip, we found a cozy spot for dinner and managed to stay awake until 10 PM before finally succumbing to exhaustion.

The next morning, refreshed and eager, we made our way to the train station once again, this time bound for Avignon. The journey was smooth, with the train gliding through picturesque countryside, dotted with quaint villages and rolling hills. About an hour and a half later, we stepped off the train into a gorgeous, sun-drenched day. It was mid-October, but the weather was as welcoming as a warm summer breeze. Our ship, docked on the banks of the Rhône, was just a kilometer walk from the city center—a perfect way to begin our adventure.

With Google Maps guiding our way through the medieval streets, we strolled past bustling cafés, charming shops, and glimpses of history around every corner. Fortunately, I had a WiFi DASH device, a lifesaver that allowed us to stay connected without worrying about finding a local SIM for our phones. [This slick (and small) device is a personal WiFi that you can use anywhere in the world for just $10/day and you can hook up multiple devices at once. It comes with unlimited data and they ship it to you via FedEx with a return mailing label.] After a quick on board check-in, we settled into our room, had lunch, and wasted no time heading back out to explore Avignon.

One of the most memorable stops was the grand Pope’s Palace, a medieval architectural marvel that stands as a testament to Avignon’s rich history. Below the palace, an Italian market had sprung to life, filling the square with the aromas of cured meats, cheeses, and freshly baked bread. We sampled the local fare, enjoyed a glass of wine, and soaked in the lively atmosphere, all while live music played in the background.

That evening, we returned to the ship for a delightful dinner, where we began to meet some of our fellow travelers. Afterward, the entertainment for the night—a spirited performance by a Gypsy Kings cover band—set the perfect tone for the start of our week-long cruise up the Rhône River toward Lyon.

Immersive Art and Timeless Charm: A Day in Arles and Les Baux on this Rhone River Cruise

Our first full day on the Viking River cruise took us down the Rhône to the town of Arles, a place where history seems to linger around every corner. Known for its well-preserved Roman amphitheater and ties to Vincent van Gogh, Arles feels like a walk through time. As we strolled through its winding, cobbled streets on a guided tour, it wasn’t hard to imagine why the great painter chose this town as his muse. The pastel-colored buildings, vibrant shutters, and bustling squares, all bathed in the golden morning light, created a picture-perfect scene at every turn.

Our guide led us past ancient Roman ruins, including the impressive amphitheater, which still hosts events today, and the stunning Romanesque architecture of the Church of St. Trophime. We also passed by the famous yellow café immortalized in Van Gogh’s “Café Terrace at Night,” which still attracts visitors eager to step into a scene straight out of a painting. The tour was a gentle introduction to the town’s fascinating blend of Roman history and artistic heritage, and it left us with a newfound appreciation for this quaint Provençal gem.

In the afternoon, we opted for an excursion to Les Baux-de-Provence, a village perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, overlooking the Alpilles mountains. The journey there was a scenic drive, winding through olive groves and vineyards, as the landscape shifted to reveal the rugged beauty of Provence. Our destination, Carrières de Lumières, was unlike anything we had ever experienced. What was once a vast sandstone quarry has been transformed into an extraordinary art space, where images and video are projected onto the towering walls, floor, and even ceiling, creating a mesmerizing, 360-degree visual spectacle.

The show that day was a kaleidoscope of color and sound, with works of famous artists coming to life around us. The quarry’s rough, stone surfaces gave depth and texture to the projections, turning static images into something dynamic and ethereal. As the music swelled, the entire space seemed to breathe, pulling us into a world of swirling colors and light. It was as if we were inside a moving painting, and for an hour, time stood still as we wandered through this immersive, otherworldly environment. Words can hardly do it justice—it’s a place that must be experienced to be truly understood.

After leaving Carrières de Lumières, we took a leisurely walk through the medieval village of Les Baux. With its narrow, winding lanes, stone houses, and panoramic views over the Provençal landscape, it was like stepping into a fairy-tale. The village seemed almost frozen in time, and yet it was alive with small boutiques, artisan shops, and inviting cafés. We browsed through the stores, picking up some local lavender-scented soaps and handmade ceramics before stopping at a quaint café to enjoy an espresso, taking in the view as the sun dipped lower in the sky.

As the day drew to a close, we returned to our ship, where a fantastic dinner awaited us. The evening’s entertainment was lively and engaging, setting the perfect end to a day that had been as enchanting as it was unforgettable. From the ancient streets of Arles to the immersive artistry of Carrières de Lumières, our journey along the Rhône was already proving to be an adventure for the senses.

Canoeing Through the Mist and Marveling at Roman Engineering

Day three brought us back to the familiar port of Avignon, but this time, we experienced the Rhône from a different perspective by canoeing down river. The morning greeted us with dense fog, transforming the river into a quiet, mysterious landscape. As we paddled down the swift current, the mist obscured the shores, creating an almost ethereal atmosphere where shapes and shadows blurred at the edges. Despite the limited visibility, the journey was serene, the rhythmic splash of our paddles breaking the stillness around us.

The recent rains had raised the water levels, giving the river a brisk pace that made our canoeing journey quicker than expected. It wasn’t long before we found ourselves approaching the iconic St. Bénézet Bridge, its ancient stone arches looming out of the fog like a relic from another era. Known for spanning only partway across the Rhône, the bridge is a testament to medieval ingenuity and is the oldest bridge on the river between Lyon and the Mediterranean. Passing beneath one of its grand arches, shrouded in mist, felt like gliding into a scene from a dream—a moment suspended in time.

After returning to the ship and drying off, we set off on an afternoon excursion to one of the great engineering marvels of the ancient world: the Pont du Gard. This Roman aqueduct, perfectly preserved through the centuries, stands as a striking reminder of the ingenuity and ambition of Roman civilization. The museum near the site provided fascinating insights into the history and construction of the aqueduct, showing how it transported water to the city of Nîmes over 2,000 years ago.

With a few hours to explore, we wandered the trails around the aqueduct, taking in views from every angle. From the heights of a nearby hill, the aqueduct’s three-tiered arches stretched across the river below, casting sharp shadows against the late afternoon light. Down by the water’s edge, we stood directly beneath the structure, marveling at its sheer scale and the precision with which it was built. It’s easy to see why this site has endured as a symbol of Roman engineering prowess; every stone seemed to tell a story of human endeavor and ambition.

The day was a blend of tranquility and awe, from the quiet moments on the misty Rhône to the grandeur of the Pont du Gard.

A Taste of Tradition: From Riverside Strolls to French Elegance

Day four began with a peaceful morning, enjoying breakfast on the Aquavit Terrace at the bow of the ship. As we savored our meal, the scenery drifted by—green hillsides and quaint villages waking up to the soft light of day. It was the perfect way to ease into our walking tour of Viviers, a small town that seemed to embody the essence of rural France.

Viviers’ cobblestone streets and winding alleys led us past charming stone houses, each one carrying a piece of the town’s long history. Our guide shared stories of medieval trade and local legends as we explored the town’s quieter corners. The highlight of the tour was the Cathedral of Saint Vincent, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the town and river below. Inside, its intricate stonework and stained glass captured the sense of grandeur that has echoed through the town for centuries.

After the tour, we spent the afternoon sailing toward Tournon-sur-Rhône, a journey punctuated by a fascinating Nautical Talk from the captain. He shared insights into the challenges and intricacies of navigating the Rhône, offering a glimpse into what it takes to guide the ship safely through the river’s bends and currents. The talk was not only informative but also a reminder of the skill and dedication behind our smooth passage along the river.

Later, as the sun dipped low on the horizon, we gathered for a VES Cocktail Party, a tradition for returning Viking guests. This was my third cruise with Viking, and it was heartening to catch up with familiar faces and meet fellow travelers who had shared similar journeys. The atmosphere was lively, and the sense of camaraderie was palpable—a testament to the bonds formed on these smaller, intimate cruises.

The evening’s entertainment was a special treat: a French ballroom dance show that captured the grace and elegance of French culture. We were not just spectators; the performance included a narrative that walked us through the history and styles of various dances, from the waltz to the cha-cha, highlighting how French influences have shaped these timeless movements. We had a chance to chat with the performers during lunch earlier in the day and learned that the lead dancer had been mastering his craft since he was just four years old. Now at 64, his passion was as evident as ever, with each step executed with precision and flair, backed by decades of dedication.

As the night drew on, the rhythmic sways of the dancers and the soft glow of the ship’s lights cast a warm, inviting ambiance over the deck. It was a fitting end to a day that celebrated both the simplicity of riverside life and the refined artistry of dance—a blend of the old and new, much like the journey we were on.

A Rainy Vineyard Hike and an Unexpected Evening in Vienne

Day five of our Rhone River cruise began with an early morning decision that set the tone for the day. We had the choice between joining a scenic steam train ride through the Rhône Valley or setting out on a vineyard hike. Torn between the two, I ultimately chose the hike, eager to explore the countryside on foot, even as the sky was gray and heavy with the promise of rain.

As we set off, the rain started to fall steadily, adding a layer of mist over the vineyard. The trail wound through rows of vines, their leaves glistening with droplets and yellow with the changing of the season, while the earthy scent of wet soil filled the air. Though the weather was far from ideal, there was something rewarding about reaching the top of the vineyard, where the mist parted just enough to reveal sweeping views of the valley below. From this vantage point, the landscape stretched out before us—the rolling hills, endless vineyards, and the winding Rhône River creating a moody, captivating panorama.

After enjoying the view, we descended to the winery for a tasting. The rustic yet elegant tasting room provided a warm and welcoming retreat from the damp chill outside. While the wines were delightful, showcasing the distinct flavors of the Rhône region, the experience felt a little incomplete. We had anticipated a more robust tasting with local cheeses, fresh bread, or perhaps some chocolate, but none were offered. Still, the setting was charming, and we took our time savoring the wines, reflecting on the morning’s hike before heading back to our ship.

The rain continued to intensify throughout the afternoon, complicating our journey to the next stop on our Rhone River cruise, the historic city of Vienne. The Viking crew managed the challenging conditions with remarkable skill, navigating the swollen waters and ensuring a smooth passage, even though it meant arriving later than planned. By the time we docked, it was nearly 8 PM, and our scheduled afternoon walking tour had long passed.

Despite the delay, the activities director worked some last-minute magic, arranging for a couple of local guides to lead an impromptu evening stroll through Vienne after dinner. Just as we stepped off the ship, the skies opened up again, and rain poured down in sheets, soaking everyone to the bone. Large red umbrellas were handed out, but they could do little against the sudden deluge. Many guests retreated to the warmth of the ship, but a handful of us, already drenched, decided to embrace the moment and carry on.

For those of us who braved the rain, Vienne revealed a different kind of charm. The reflections of the streetlights danced on the rain-slicked cobblestones, and the scent of rain mingled with the aromas drifting from nearby cafés. Our guide shared stories of the city’s Roman past and medieval heritage, his voice resonating through the quiet, rain-filled streets. Though our time in Vienne was brief, the unexpected circumstances made it feel like a hidden, almost intimate glimpse into the city’s character.

It wasn’t the day we had planned, but that’s the nature of a Rhone River cruise—each day unfolds with its own surprises, blending spontaneity with discovery. Whether it’s a misty hike through vineyards or an impromptu tour under a downpour, every moment becomes part of the adventure, turning the journey into something unforgettable.

Discovering Lyon and the Timeless Charm of Perouges on this Rhone River Cruise

As our Rhone River cruise approached its final days, we sailed into Lyon, a city rich in culture, history, and culinary delights. This would be our port for the next two days, offering us ample time to explore one of France’s most vibrant cities before our journey came to an end.

Our day began with a bus ride to the old part of town, winding our way up to the highest point in Lyon—the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière. Perched atop the hill, the basilica offers sweeping views of the city below, with its terracotta rooftops stretching out as far as the eye can see. The building itself is a masterpiece, a blend of Gothic and Byzantine architecture that draws the eye upward with its intricate designs and gleaming mosaics. Inside, we marveled at the ornate interior, with colorful stained glass and richly decorated ceilings that created an air of reverence and awe. After the tour, we had some time to wander around the grounds, taking in the panoramic vistas before heading back down the hill.

From there, the bus brought us to the heart of old Lyon, where we took a leisurely stroll through the historic streets. The area was a delightful maze of cobbled lanes, bustling cafés, and hidden courtyards, each corner revealing something new—a street musician playing a lively tune, a window filled with pastries, or a shopfront adorned with local art. The city seemed to pulse with a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy. After a morning of exploring, we returned to the ship for lunch, ready to embark on our afternoon excursion.

In the afternoon, we opted for an optional excursion to the nearby village of Perouges, a place that felt as if it had been frozen in time. The moment we stepped through its stone archway, we were transported back centuries, to an era when life moved at a gentler, unhurried pace. Our guide shared stories of the village’s medieval roots, explaining how its strategic location made it a bustling trade hub in the past. As we walked along the narrow, cobblestone streets, lined with stone houses and iron lanterns, it was easy to imagine the village as it once was, filled with merchants and craftsmen going about their daily lives.

One of the highlights of our visit was sampling a local delicacy known as “sugar pie.” Unlike anything we’d tasted before, it was a simple yet delicious treat—a thin slice of dough topped with butter and sugar, then baked to a golden crisp. The sweetness melted on the tongue, and paired with the beautiful setting, it was a moment to savor. The day was bathed in warm, golden light, with clear skies overhead—an absolutely picture-perfect afternoon.

As we made our way back to Lyon, there was a sense of fulfillment, as if the day had captured the essence of everything that makes a Rhone River cruise so special. From the grandeur of the basilica overlooking the city to the quaint, timeless beauty of Perouges, we had experienced a series of moments that would linger long after the journey ended.

A Perfect Farewell: Beaujolais, Lyon, and Newfound Friends

Our final day on the Rhone River cruise took us to the lush, rolling hills of Beaujolais Wine Country. This included tour was thoughtfully arranged, with only about 20 guests per bus, ensuring an intimate experience as we visited a selection of vineyards across the region. We visited Chateau des Ravatys, a stunning 29-hectare vineyard with a perfect alchemy for optimal production.

The day was blessed with clear skies, and the vineyards, stretched across the gentle slopes, were bathed in warm, golden sunlight. Our guide led us through the wine-making process, from grape to glass, and we had the chance to savor a selection of wines that captured the essence of Beaujolais—light, fresh, and delightfully nuanced. It was a leisurely morning of tastings and tours, and by the time we returned to the ship for lunch, we were filled with the easygoing spirit of the countryside.

That afternoon, Shane and I set out to explore Lyon one last time, determined to soak in every moment of the city’s charm. The weather couldn’t have been better; there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, and the temperature was just right. We meandered through the streets, past the old Olympic aquatics center, a striking piece of architecture with an intriguing backstory. Built in the late 1960s by a hopeful mayor who was convinced Lyon would host the Olympics, the center never saw the Games—as it went to Mexico City instead—but the venue has since become an iconic symbol of the city, a testament to its aspirations.

As we continued our walk, we stumbled upon a bustling square where a big band of street performers, more than 20 strong, was playing lively, upbeat music. The infectious energy filled the square, and we couldn’t help but pause to listen, tapping our feet to the rhythm along with a crowd of smiling onlookers. It was one of those unexpected, joyful moments that make traveling so memorable—a fleeting connection with a place and its people.

We returned to the ship just in time for dinner, barely enough time to freshen up before our final meal on board. Dinner that night was bittersweet, filled with laughter, shared stories, and the promise of new friendships that had been forged over the course of the week. One of the unique aspects of a Viking River cruise is its smaller, more intimate setting. With just around 190 passengers, the ship felt more like a floating community than a traditional cruise liner. Meals were shared together, and excursions were opportunities to connect with familiar faces, creating a sense of camaraderie that made the journey special. It wasn’t just the guests who made an impression; the crew, hailing from a variety of countries, brought their own stories and warmth, adding to mosaic of experiences.

As we said our goodbyes that night, exchanging contact information and heartfelt promises to stay in touch, it was clear that this Rhone River cruise had been more than just a voyage from Avignon to Lyon. It had been a journey of connection—connecting with the culture, the land, and, most importantly, with people. We disembarked the next morning, our hearts full and our minds brimming with memories, grateful for every moment on this extraordinary cruise.

The Allure of a Viking Rhone River Cruise: Comfort, Culture, and Class

A Viking Rhone River Cruise stands out for their seamless blend of luxury, comfort, and immersive travel. With a focus on destination-centric itineraries, these cruises are designed to maximize exploration, offering carefully curated excursions that allow guests to delve into the culture, history, and flavors of each port. The smaller ship size is a key advantage, providing easier access to ports in the heart of cities, enabling guests to step right off the ship and into the local experience. Onboard, the refined Scandinavian design emphasizes elegance and comfort, creating a serene atmosphere throughout. The all-inclusive nature of Viking cruises means guests can enjoy high-quality dining, complimentary beer and wine with meals, and even Wi-Fi without worrying about hidden costs. Combined with attentive, personalized service, spacious staterooms, and enrichment activities that bring each destination to life, a Viking River Cruise is a pleasurable, stress-free journey that allows travelers to truly savor the essence of the region.

If you have any questions about this Rhone River Cruise with Viking, please leave a comment below, I’m happy to help. Oh, and if you’re interested in a Central Europe River Cruise, I’ve done one of those with Viking as well. So, until next time, we’ll see ya on the road…