Grand France

15 day river cruise

2026

This river cruise holiday showcases France’s charm, breathtaking views, and rich history. Your adventure begins on the Rhône River with a visit to Arles, France—famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh—and its 1st-century Roman Amphitheatre. On a guided tour of historical Avignon, see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes. The city of Tournon is beautifully nestled among vineyards and you’ll go on a guided walk of this medieval treasure with plenty of Roman ruins. Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture. The Seine River offers a choice of excursion opportunities, such as a visit to the historic Normandy Landing Beaches, including Omaha Beach, the Point du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery; a visit to delightful Les Andelys, Joan of Arc’s Rouen, and the choice between a visit to Vincent van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise or Napoleon and Josephine’s Malmaison.

On this French river cruise, you’ll enjoy wine, cheese, beautiful scenery, and stops in charming and historical parts of France, but your adventure would not be complete without a visit to Paris—one of the world’s most romantic and vibrant cities! Discover its true heart on a guided walk through the sites of Paris’ rich history, or take a tour showing you the iconic sites of the Louvre Museum, Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, and more. Walk in the footsteps of the great master artists, enjoy the delectable cuisine of France, and stand where heroes fought for freedom on the beaches of Normandy. This and so much more is waiting for you on your French cruise on the Seine!

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A River Odyssey Through the Heart of France

Each day offers a perfect blend of guided excursions and free time, allowing you to immerse yourself in French culture, history, and cuisine. From the romantic Seine to the sun-drenched Rhône, this journey showcases the very best of France, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your Suite Ship.

Day 1: Paris

Embark on your luxurious Suite Ship
Evening cruise on the Seine, witnessing the City of Light come alive

Day 2: Vernon & Les Andelys

Morning in Vernon: Visit Monet's enchanting gardens in Giverny
Afternoon in Les Andelys: Hike to Château Gaillard or explore the picturesque town

Day 3: Caudebec

Cruise the Seine's Normandy Abbeys Route
Optional excursion to charming Honfleur

Day 4: Normandy Beaches

Full-day excursion to D-Day landing sites
Visit Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery

Day 5: Rouen

Explore the medieval quarter and magnificent cathedral
Walk in the footsteps of Joan of Arc

Day 6: Conflans

Choose between Van Gogh's Auvers-sur-Oise or Napoleon's Château de Malmaison
Evening cruise into Paris

Day 7: Paris

Guided city tour featuring iconic Parisian landmarks
Free time to explore the City of Light

Day 8: Paris to Beaune to Chalon-sur-Saône

High-speed train journey to Burgundy
Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune
Board your ship in Chalon-sur-Saône

Day 9: Tournus

Discover one of Burgundy's oldest monastic centers
Onboard cheese tasting experience

Day 10: Lyon

Explore France's gastronomic capital
Guided tour of Old Town and Fourvière Hill

Day 11: Lyon

Culinary walk through local markets
Free time to discover Lyon's famous murals

Day 12: Tournon & Viviers

Morning walk through medieval Tournon
Evening tour of charming Viviers

Day 13: Avignon

Visit the impressive Palace of the Popes
Optional excursion to Pont du Gard or Châteauneuf-du-Pape

Day 14: Arles

Walk in Van Gogh's footsteps
Visit the Roman Amphitheatre
Optional painting workshop

Day 15: Arles

Bid farewell to your floating boutique hotel
Depart with unforgettable memories of France

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Aboard with Avalon

15 years of innovation in River Cruising

From the moment you step aboard our modern, award-winning cruise fleet, our passion for detail redefines relaxed luxury.

Breathe in the view with our panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, which blur the line between where the world ends and your room begins. With the most spacious suites of any European river cruise, unpack once and indulge more in your own private oasis. Relax and recharge in your own slice of heaven, which boasts complimentary Wifi, an on-board library, hair salon and fitness centre.

Unwind after a day of adventure with decadent drinks at the cocktail bar. Savour local delicacies and world class wines prepared for you by our renowned chefs. Be surprised by the variety of on-board entertainment. Do it all or do as little, but do it your way.