River cruises in Arles
Step aboard and drift through time as you explore Arles, a UNESCO-listed gem along the Rhône River. Famed for its Roman heritage, Van Gogh's legacy, and vibrant Provençal spirit, Arles is a captivating highlight of many France river cruises. Cobbled streets, sun-drenched fields, and world-class gastronomy invite travelers to immerse themselves in centuries of layered culture.
Explore Southern France's Cultural Heart
River cruises through Arles offer a serene yet enriching way to experience Southern France. The town's compact charm allows for leisurely exploration, from the well-preserved Roman amphitheater to contemporary art spaces in medieval buildings. Beyond Arles, the Rhône and Seine rivers meander through iconic cities, countryside vineyards, and charming towns, revealing a timeless and ever-evolving France.
Whether you're sipping local Côtes du Rhône wine beneath the olive trees or walking in Van Gogh's footsteps, river cruising through Arles connects you with the romance of Provence in the most elegant way possible. Every river bend offers a new vista, a new flavor, and a new story to tell.
Linking Northern Wonders with Southern Treasures
Though Arles lies along the Rhône, many longer or themed itineraries combine the Rhône and Seine rivers, linking northern France to Provence for a comprehensive cultural voyage.
Paris
The City of Light needs no introduction. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, Seine cruises often start or end in Paris. Elegant ships dock near the city center, offering easy access to world-famous landmarks, cozy bistros, and luxury boutiques.
Conflans-Sainte-Honorine
Conflans-Sainte-Honorine is known as the capital of French inland navigation. This riverside town offers charming walkways and a nautical heritage. It is often a stopover before heading into the countryside or deeper into the Parisian suburbs.
Giverny
A must for art lovers, Giverny is home to Monet’s house and the gardens that inspired his iconic water lilies. Walking among the flowers and lily ponds feels like stepping into an impressionist painting.
La Roche-Guyon
The picturesque La Roche-Guyon combines dramatic cliffside views with a historic château. A scenic gem along the Seine, it feels almost untouched by time and is often featured on art- and history-themed cruises.
Les Mureaux
Les Mureaux is a peaceful riverside town offering a gentle interlude on Seine River cruises. Known for its green parks and river promenades, it provides a breath of fresh air just outside the bustle of Paris. With its relaxed pace and authentic local feel, Les Mureaux is ideal for quiet strolls, market browsing, and soaking in small-town French charm.
Mantes-la-Jolie
Mantes-la-Jolie enchants visitors with its Gothic Notre-Dame Church and scenic waterfront views. Once a favored retreat for French royalty, this Seine-side town now welcomes cruisers with its picturesque streets, riverfront cafés, and easy access to nearby gardens and châteaux.
Poissy
Poissy is known for its beautiful collegiate church and ties to French royalty. The town balances riverside tranquility with accessible cultural depth, ideal for a peaceful interlude along your cruise.
Avignon
Avignon enchants with its medieval walls and the impressive Palais des Papes. Stroll along the Rhône or explore the famed Pont d’Avignon, enjoying sweeping river views framed by Gothic architecture and bustling squares.
Lyon
Further north, Lyon sits at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône. Famed for its gastronomic scene and Renaissance architecture, it is a major embarkation or disembarkation point for many cruises that feature Arles on their route.
Themed and Duration-Based Itineraries
Short Cruises (3–5 Days)
Ideal for travelers short on time, these cruises often focus on highlights like Arles, Avignon, and the Camargue. Expect market visits, vineyard tastings, and optional bike tours. Some Seine-based itineraries center around Paris and Giverny, perfect for a cultural city break on water.
Medium Cruises (6–9 Days)
These itineraries delve deeper into Provence or combine Rhône and Seine segments. A typical route might start in Arles, sail north through Avignon, Viviers, Lyon, and include excursions to Camargue or Ardèche gorges. On the Seine, guests might explore Paris, Rouen, Giverny, and the Normandy beaches.
Long Cruises (10+ Days)
Epic journeys often span from the Mediterranean to Northern France. Imagine boarding in Arles and disembarking in Paris, or vice versa. These immersive experiences include everything from Roman amphitheaters and lavender fields to Gothic cathedrals and Monet’s gardens.
Special Interest Cruises
- Wine Cruises: Featuring onboard sommeliers, vineyard tours in Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and wine-pairing dinners.
- Art & History: Explore Van Gogh’s Arles, medieval Avignon, and Normandy’s WWII sites.
- Christmas Markets: Seasonal cruises highlight festive markets in Lyon and Paris, with mulled wine, handcrafted gifts, and local pastries.
- Culinary Tours: Chef-led excursions to markets, onboard cooking demos, and multi-course regional menus.
The Onboard Experience
Ship Size and Ambiance
Vessels on the Rhône and Seine typically accommodate 80–160 guests, offering an intimate and personalized atmosphere. Expect sun decks with panoramic views, cozy lounges, and attentive service that enhances every moment onboard.
Dining and Wine
Menus celebrate regional French cuisine: Provençal ratatouille, Lyonnaise pork, Camargue rice, and more. Local wines are often featured, with sommeliers introducing guests to Rhône varietals like Syrah, Grenache, and Viognier.
Excursions and Enrichment
Guided walking tours, tastings, bike rides, and historical site visits form the core of daily excursions. Onboard, enjoy guest lectures, painting workshops, or French language classes, deepening your connection to the regions visited.
Traveler Types
- Couples: Romantic backdrops and gourmet dining make this ideal for anniversaries and honeymoons.
- Solo Travelers: Small group settings foster camaraderie and personalized experiences.
- Families: Select cruises cater to multigenerational travelers with flexible excursions and onboard activities.
- Luxury Seekers: High-end ships offer butler service, spa treatments, and exclusive shore excursions.
"In Arles, time flows like the Rhône—graceful, storied, and full of life."
From the golden light that captivated Van Gogh to the flavors of Provençal cuisine and the echoes of Roman amphitheaters, river cruising through Arles offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of Southern France. With every stop, every meal, and every scenic bend, travelers are immersed in a world where history, art, and nature unite. Whether you seek a short escape or a grand odyssey across French waterways, Arles remains a radiant jewel—timeless, evocative, and waiting to be discovered.
