Bon Voyage! The Rhône & Provence - Northbound

Tour begins: 6:00 PM. A transfer is included from Marseille Provence Airport to your riverboat docked in Arles. Meet the families you'll be traveling with at a welcome reception and dinner aboard the ship, featuring entertainment by a mentalist that's fun for the whole family.

Discover the flora and fauna of Camargue, a natural coastal region stretching across the the Rhône River delta between the Mediterranean Sea, on a "safari" experience by jeep followed by lunch. Your ship departs Arles late this afternoon en route to Avignon. As you cruises along the Rhone, enjoy a hands-on chocolate painting demonstration, coloring a chocolate made painting alongside your family, but don't spoil your appetite, you'll have the chance to try your edible masterpiece after dinner. 

Disembark your riverboat this morning for your choice of excursions in Avignon. One choice offers you the opportunity to explore the opulent Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. Once a fortress and palace, the Palais des Papes was a seat of Western Christianity throughout the 14th century and was most notable as being the location of six papal enclaves leading to the elections of Benedict XII, Clement VI, Innocent VI, Urban V, Gregory XI and Benedict XII. Today, the palace is recognized classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its incredible architecture and importance to the papacy. Alternatively, put the pedal to the metal on a guided bike ride past groves of fruit trees and fields of sunflowers around Avignon and Barthelasse Island. Say your goodbyes to Avignon and enjoy a full afternoon of cruising highlighted by views of the passing riverscape as your ship sails for Viviers. Tonight, a "magical" evening is in store for you following dinner.

This morning brings adventure to your France family river cruise with a walking tour of medieval Viviers, where you'll wind your way up through narrow, cobbled streets, curious passageways and doorways in shades of blue and green... leading up to the petite 12th-century Cathédrale Saint-Vincent. Next, try your hand at a game of pétanque, played by tossing a small metal boule about the size of an orange. Alternatively, the Bollene lock is one of the most impressive navigation locks in Europe, often cited as a marvel of engineering; your visit includes an amazing look at river navigation. From the moment you step into this landmark of the Rhone Valley, you'll be taken on a journey through exhibits and displays which bring the story to life. Return to the riverboat for lunch and an afternoon and evening spent cruising.

This morning disembark your riverboat in Tain l'Hermitage for fun family discoveries ashore including a choice of excursions; a Velorail Rail Bike ride; a visit to world renowned chocolate producer, Valrhona, where you'll learn about the history of the chocolate maker, taste the difference between a few different types of chocolate and take part in a chocolate truffle making class with one of Valrhona's top pastry chefs; or, embark on an active hike through the vineyards of Tain I'Hermitage, learning about the region's rich wine history and indulging in a jaw-dropping view at the top of the hill, one that warranted a visit from future president Thomas Jefferson back in 1788. The rest of the afternoon and evening are spent cruising the Rhône, bound for Vienne.

Welcome to Vienne! Once a thriving center of the Roman Empire, Vienne – known in ancient times as Vienna – flourished thanks to its strategic location along the Rhône River. Today, its rich Roman heritage lives on in the remarkable ruins and ancient monuments scattered throughout the city, offering a fascinating glimpse into its storied past. Your time in Vienne is highlighted today by a choice of excursions followed by another afternoon of cruising en route to your final destination - Lyon.

Your adventure may be ending, but the fun isn't over yet! You're off for a choice of excursions this morning in Lyon, the third largest city in France located at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Following your excursion, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy Lyon as you wish. Tonight, please join us for a farewell reception and dinner. A perfect way to cap off an incredible river cruise.

Tour Ends: Lyon. Our family France river cruise concludes in Lyon today as your family disembarks the riverboat; fly home after 11:00 AM. A transfer is included from the riverboat to either the Lyon Airport or Lyon's Perrache or Part Dieu train stations; you should allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in at the airport.