Explore France from Normandy to Nice by river!

(29 Reviews)
100% Recommended

Meridith O'Toole

Mendota Heights, MN
European and North America travel specialist

Travel is my passion and whether you are planning a first trip to overseas, want to experience a European River Cruise, guided trip through Europe or custom dream European vacation , you can call on me to help you plan the trip you desire. With my...

Avignon in the heart of Provence

One of the most pleasant ways to enjoy a visit to France is to cruise its beautiful rivers from Rouen to Avignon.  This 15 day cruise begins on the River Seine.  You’ll visit Normandy and the famous World War II beaches, experience Rouen’s Gothic architecture and view the site of Joan of Arc’s martyrdom, and delight in the familiar landmarks of Paris.  You may want to add the food tour in Paris, to savor the excellence of that world famous cuisine.


Next you’ll travel by train through the lush landscapes of France’s countryside to Lyon where you’ll board another elegant ship to cruise the Rhone.  In Lyon you’ll have the chance to visit the Beaujolais vineyards for a wine tasting and stroll the ancient streets of France’s third largest city.  You will visit the ancient town of Vienne, famous for its Roman architecture, and cruise through the magnificent countryside to Tournons. On to Avignon, where you will visit the Palace of the Popes and marvel at the Pont du Gard Aqueduct built by the Romans over 2000 years ago.


Each of these ports of call gives a different perspective of French culture, focusing on local cuisine and wines, art and art history (think Van Gogh and Renoir) and historical events ranging from the French Revolution to the second world war.   And you can extend your trip by adding pre- or post-cruise tours of Oxford, England, Paris or the French Riviera.  


Art, cuisine, style, joie de vivre—if you love everything Français, this is for you: a 15-day journey that combines  popular Paris & the Heart of Normandy with Lyon & Provence cruises into one tour de force!  Let me be your guide to this amazing experience in France. 

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