Active & Discovery on the Rhône with 2 Nights in Paris (Southbound) 2021

10 Day River Cruise Paris to Port-Saint-Louis

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Get a Quote Book Online From: $4,748$3,998

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2021 Information.

Treat yourself to a vacation in France before your Active & Discovery cruise on the Rhône River with two nights in the “City of Light”—Paris. Spend your first day in the romantic city with an unhurried stroll along the Champs-Élysées, or linger over wine and crepes in a Montparnasse literary café—once frequented by Hemingway, Fitzgerald, and Picasso. The following day, select included excursions such as a guided sightseeing tour of the must-see sites, or a guided biking tour through Paris’ highlights, including the Eiffel Tower and Place de la Concorde—with a peaceful rest along the Seine River.

From Paris, board the high-speed train to embark your Avalon Suite Ship® in Lyon, the culinary capital of France! With Avalon Choice® included excursions, you’ll find a variety of ways to explore each port you visit. Choose from Active, Classic, and Discovery included excursions that interest you—from casual and leisurely to cultural and active. Admire the lovely views of the French countryside, join a culinary walk to discover architecture and local specialties, or take a cooking class in Lyon. Embark on a kayak excursion or simply linger in a sidewalk café; stroll Avignon’s papal palace or attend a wine tasting in an underground cave.

With so many Avalon Choice inclusions, you’ll find the perfect way to spend your day—from a ghost tour in Viviers to a guided bike ride through the Gard region, to a chocolate factory tour. In addition to classic sightseeing and relaxed free time, you can visit an oyster farm, bike through Camargue Regional Nature Park to spot flamingos, or take a painting workshop in Arles—in the style of Van Gogh. Our Active & Discovery Rhône River cruise with Avalon Choice® includes activities and excursions to experience the Rhône River at your pace in every place we go. From culture to cuisine and everything in between, it’s a vacation in France made just for you.


Dates & Prices Get a Quote Book Online

Cruise at-a-Glance

Day 1 Paris:Welcome to France! Day 2 Paris:Choice of city sightseeing, or bike tour in ParisDay 3 Paris–Lyon (Embarkation):Onboard welcome reception; evening guided tour of Lyon Day 4 Lyon:Choice of culinary tour, or guided urban hike, or cooking classDay 5 Tain l’Hermitage/Tournon–Viviers:Choice of rail-bike tour along the Gorges du Doux, or guided hike in the vineyards, or guided tour of Tournon, or tour of the Valrhona factory and museum; Lyonnaise specialties cooking demonstration; evening guided tour in ViviersDay 6 Viviers–Avignon:In Avignon choice of guided kayak trip down the Gorges de l’Ardèche, or guided hike in the Natural Reserve of Cirque d’Estre, or visit lock Bollène and its power plant, or guided speleological excursion with wine tasting in the cavesDay 7 Avignon:Choice of guided tour, or guided e-bike tour Day 8 Arles:Choice of guided tour in Arles, meet a bullfighter, or guided hike through the Hell Valley with a visit to Carrières de Lumière, or painting workshopDay 9 Port-Saint-Louis:Choice of excursion to a local oyster farm with tasting, or either visit a bull ranch, or bike tour through the Camargue Regional Natural ParkDay 10 Port-Saint-Louis (Disembarkation):Your vacation ends this morning

Cruise YourWay

Avalon makes it easy to experience vacation your way with seamless extension options before and after your cruise. Your Way offers added nights in a selection of locales. From Budapest to Barcelona, you can spend a little or a lot more time getting to know more on shore with Your Way custom itineraries.

View 3 Your Way Cruise Options »

Always Included

You've always forged your own path...with your own distinct perspective of looking at the world. Avalon Waterways presents a river cruise experience with your unique style in mind—offering expansive views and wider perspectives. That's why we've designed a cruise experience that's just a bit different.

Here are just some of the features and amenities you'll experience on board our Avalon ships. See the Ship Amenities Section below for more information about the amenities in our fleet’s unique ships.

Throughout the Ship
Suites & Staterooms
Health & Fitness
Dining

Throughout the Ship:

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Panoramic windows
  • Elegant, contemporary design & decor
  • Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
  • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
  • Covered Observation Lounge
  • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day

Suites & Staterooms:

  • Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Premium L'Occitane bath products
  • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe
  • USB Ports
  • Complimentary bottled water daily
  • And, much more.

Health & Fitness:

  • Bikes
  • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
  • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
  • Fitness and wellness activities
  • Fitbits®
  • All through your Avalon Adventure HostSM

Dining

  • FlexDining® for more venue and seating options, including flexible seating times in our Panorama Dining Room
  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
  • Early and Late Riser breakfast options
  • Daily a la carte breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily specials*
  • Daily a la carte lunch including regional specialties, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and classic dishes*
  • Alternative light lunch at Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather permitting)
  • Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats & sandwiches
  • Daily four-course a la carte dinner in the Panorama Dining Room with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts. Includes selections of regional recipes, Western dishes and vegetarian options.
  • Enjoy a tasting menu with a view in the Panorama Bistro - a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere while lingering over several satisfying selections
  • Captain’s welcome & farewell receptions and dinners with sparkling wine and canapés
  • Panorama Lounge featuring premium spirits and Avalon specialty cocktails, along with local entertainment special guests
  • Cocktails available on the Sky Deck
  • Fresh fruit available throughout the day

*Due to heightened health & safety measures, Avalon has replaced self-serve buffets with crew-served buffets and/or full a la carte menu options until further notice

Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:

Classic
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You’ll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
Discovery
We’ve found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests - from cooking classes, to painting workshops - to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Active
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go - from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
  • Plus independent exploration options and use of our exclusive AvalonGO APP.

Day-By-Day Itinerary

(B) = Breakfast   (L) = Lunch   (D) = Dinner

Day 1

PARIS, FRANCE

Welcome to Paris! The day is yours to explore the City of Lights at your leisure. Consider browsing along Paris’ classic shopping avenues and literary cafés for a true Parisian experience.

Day 2

(B)

PARIS

The City of Light

Classic
Join a Guided Sightseeing which will show you magnificent must-see sights, OR:
Active
Enjoy a Guided Biking Tour which will reveal some of the highlights of Paris–such as the Eiffel Tower and Palace de la Concorde–from a different point of view; enjoy a peaceful break on the Seine river banks.

Day 3

(B, D)

PARIS–LYON (EMBARKATION)

Board the TGV train to Lyon where your Suite Ship® is ready for boarding.

Discovery
Get an entirely different perspective of Lyon on this relaxing evening drive around the illuminated city. Experience the heart of the city in the magical Presqu’île district, admire the grand architecture of the historic buildings lining Place des Terreaux, see monumental Bartholdi Fountain, and more!
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON

Day 4

(B, L, D)

LYON

A Festival of Colors, Aromas, and Taste

Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.

Active
Take a Guided Urban Hike through Lyon’s secret passageways (Traboules) for a glimpse into the city’s 19th-century silk trade, OR:
Discovery
Take a Guided Culinary Walk through Lyon to discover architecture and local specialties in a festival of colors, aromas and taste—exclusive for Avalon guests, OR:
Discovery
Join our Cooking Class to learn to make your own Lyonnaise specialty.

This afternoon, you might take an off-the-beaten-path Guided Optional Tour (Avalon exclusive) through private and public terraces for panoramic views of Lyon, starting on the roof of the Basilica de Fourvière.

EVENING CRUISE TO TAIN L’HERMITAGE/TOURNON

Day 5

(B, L, D)

TAIN L’HERMITAGE/TOURNON

Chocolatiers and Railway Engineers in the Twin City Gorge

Active
For a unique experience and panoramic views, join a Guided Excursion this morning on a rail-bike along the descent of the Gorges du Doux, OR:
Active
Join a Guided Hike in the picturesque vineyards surrounding the twin cities of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage, OR:
Discovery
Have a true “chocolate experience” with a tour of the Valrhona Chocolate Factory and Museum, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Tournon—twin city to Tain-l’Hermitage and one of France’s oldest medieval cities. You’ll see its imposing 16th-century castle.
Discovery
Join a Cooking Demonstration and learn how to prepare a Lyonnaise treat while sailing to Viviers.
VIVIERS

Fascinating History, and Nighttime Ghost Stories

Discovery
For a different perspective on the town, join us on a nighttime Guided Tour of Viviers, discovering the legends, tales and ghost stories of this enchanting town.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIVIERS

Day 6

(B, L, D)

VIVIERS–LOCK BOLLÈNE

River Gorge Canoeing, Crocodiles, and Wine Caves

Active
Immerse yourself in the scenery with a Guided Kayak Trip in the Gorges de l’Ardèche on the spectacular canyons of this Rhône tributary, OR:
Active
Find inspiration from the amazing landscape of the region with a Guided Hike through the Natural Reserve of Cirque d’Estre, OR:
Active
Join a Guided Visit for a surprising underground Wine Tasting—under the direction of an expert Speleologist (cave guide) and an oenologist (wine-making expert), OR:
Classic
Visit the owe-inspiring water facility at Bollène and tour the power plant of this immense lock along the Rhône.

Cruise through the soaring walls of the Lock Bollène on your way to Avignon this afternoon.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON

Day 7

(B, L, D)

AVIGNON

Bike Pedals, Papal Palaces, and Perfumes in Provence

Active
Join a leisurely Guided E-Bike Ride through Gard region; after all, no need to pedal on the way back, OR:
Discovery
Visit an authentic Provencal farmhouse for a delightful experience to fill your senses as you see how essential oils are created, OR:
Classic
Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Avignon, including a visit to the world’s largest gothic fortress—the 14th-century Palace Of the Popes. Also, explore Les Halles’ covered market.

This afternoon, you may choose to join a Guided Optional Tour of the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a wine tasting, or you may opt for a Guided Optional Excursion on a kayak through the waters of Pont du Gard—the highest of all elevated Roman aqueducts.

You may choose to spend free time to explore Avignon—known as the heart of Provence. Take a leisurely stroll or a bike ride through the tree-lined streets and leafy squares within Avignon’s medieval walls.

EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES

Day 8

(B, L, D)

ARLES

A Master Class Painter and a Matador in Provence

Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

Active
Experience the legends of Val d’Enfer, with a Guided Hike; an area taking its name from the unique white limestone rock formations. The excursion includes an unforgettable later be entranced by a magical Audio/Visual Experience of light, images, and music at the Carrières de Lumières, OR:
Discovery
Attend a Painting Workshop to learn echniques of Vincent van Gogh. You’ll create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist OR:
Classic
Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Arles to get to know this charming town, including a visit with a local bullfighter to learn about the secrets and traditions handed down through generations.

This afternoon, enjoy free time to shop, stroll, or just relax in a lovely park along Arles’ Boulevard des Lices.

Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES

Day 9

(B, L, D)

PORT-SAINT-LOUIS

Oysters and Flamingos in the Rhône Delta

Enjoy a morning cruise to Port-Saint-Louis on the Sky Deck of your ship.

Active
Take a Guided Bike Ride through the Camargue Natural Park with an eye out for more than 400 bird species—including pink flamingos—along the trails of the Mediterranean’s Rhône delta, OR:
Discovery
Enjoy a taste of local life with a visit to an oyster farm in the Camargue Natural Park on a Guided Tour to enjoy an oyster tasting and learn how this delicacy is farmed, OR:
Classic
Visit one of France’s most popular and pristine nature reserves on this memorable visit to a traditional black bull ranch in Camargue Regional Nature Park!
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN PORT-SAINT-LOUIS

Day 10

(B)

PORT-SAINT-LOUIS (DISEMBARKATION)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning.

Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am.

  • In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
  • Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
  • Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.

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Active & Discovery on the Rhône (Southbound)

Start Sooner, Stay Longer

Start your vacation earlier or stay longer with destination options before or after your Avalon cruise.

Ship Details

Poetry II

Poetry II

The Avalon Poetry II offers a delightfully intimate cruise setting. Like its sister Suite Ships®, the Avalon Artistry II, Avalon Visionary, Avalon Tapestry II, and Avalon Tranquility II, the Poetry II features two full decks of suites featuring Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air BalconySM. With 200 square feet, Panorama SuitesSM are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, giving you the rare opportunity to wake each morning to the enchanting scenery and fresh breezes. Onboard amenities include an alternative dining option in the Panorama Bistro, complimentary computer use in public areas and Wi-Fi access, a Fitness Center, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro.

Included Amenities

Avalon Suite Fleet

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
  • Panoramic windows throughout the ship
  • Elegant, contemporary design & decor
  • Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
  • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
  • Covered Observation Lounge
  • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
  • Elevator
  • Non-smoking interior and staterooms

Fitness & Wellness

  • Fitness Center
  • Avalon Adventure Center
    Your place for active gear and excursions, including
    • Bikes
    • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
    • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
    • Fitness and wellness activities
    • FitBits®
    All through your Avalon Adventure HostSM
  • Active shore excursions, both included and optional

Avalon Panorama Suites & Staterooms

  • Open-Air BalconiesSM and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama Suites
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Premium L'Occitane bath products & hairdryer
  • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
  • Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe
  • Full-size closet and mirror
  • Additional under-bed storage
  • Complimentary bottled water daily

Staterooms & Suites

Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E) - 172 sq. ft.
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E)
Features
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Two windows
  • Writing desk and chair
Panorama Suite (Cat. A, B, P) - 200 sq. ft.
Panorama Suite (Cat. A, B, P)
Features
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Sofa
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Make-up mirror
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air BalconySM
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
Royal Suite - 300 sq. ft.
Royal Suite
Features
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Sofa
  • Double sinks
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Make-up mirror
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air BalconySM
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
DECK PLANS

Hotels

 Optional Excursions

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyAvalon site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

Price Ranges

$ ($50 USD and under)
$$ ($51 - $100 USD)
$$$ ($101 - $150 USD)
$$$$ (Over $150)


Paris
Lyon
Avignon
Arles
Port-Saint-Louis
Packages

Paris

Bites & Highlights of Paris

Bites & Highlights of Paris

Experience the culinary delights of Paris on this wonderful foodie walk through the dazzling "City of Light".

Price Range: $$

Lyon

Delights of Beaujolais with Wine Discovery

Delights of Beaujolais with Wine Discovery

Explore the beauty of the Beaujolais wine region, learn the magic behind its wine, and enjoy an included wine tasting on this enriching half-day guided excursion.

Price Range: $$

Rooftops of Lyon

Rooftops of Lyon

Get a rare bird's-eye view of Lyon and its surroundings on this active walk to some of the city's most coveted rooftops and terraces, including VIP access to the top of Fourvière Basilica!

Price Range: $$$$

Medieval Pérouges

Medieval Pérouges

Discover one of the most beautiful medieval walled towns in France on this half-day guided tour of Pérouges, idyllic movie set from the 1973 version of "The Three Musketeers"!

Price Range: $$

Avignon

Châteauneuf du Pape Wine Experience

Châteauneuf du Pape Wine Experience

Wines from Châteauneuf du Pape have become icons among French wines. Join us for a delightful half-day guided excursion into the famous wine region for a visit of a traditional winery and a tasting of its incomparable wines!

Price Range: $$

Pont du Gard Kayak Adventure

Pont du Gard Kayak Adventure

Get a unique perspective of the scenic Gard region as you paddle your way through the fabulous Gorges du Gardon. Whether you're a hard-core canoe enthusiast or a newcomer to the activity, this fun and active excursion is an experience you'll never forget!

Price Range: $$

Arles

Saint-Rémy de Provence

Saint-Rémy de Provence

Discover the charms and legendary beauty of Saint-Rémy in the heart of Provence.

Price Range: $$

Olive Oil Tasting in Les Baux de Provence

Olive Oil Tasting in Les Baux de Provence

Travel into the heart of Provence on this exciting half-day guided visit of an olive farm and olive mill with a tasting of locally produced olive oil!

Price Range: $$

Port-Saint-Louis

Discover Marseille, European Capital of Culture

Discover Marseille, European Capital of Culture

Discover Marseille, a European Capital of Culture and one of France's most fascinating cities!

Price Range: $$

Packages

Celebration Packages

Celebration Packages

Celebrating a birthday or anniversary while you're cruising? Add an Avalon Celebration Package to your vacation. You can make your special day even more memorable with special touches ranging from flowers to a private cocktail reception.

Price Range: $$$$

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