From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Embark in Lyon, France’s culinary capital, and enjoy an evening illumination cruise. Savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. You can even become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized "Black Diamond" truffles; learn how to pair chocolate with wine; and discover how olives turn into the Mediterranean’s nectar, olive oil. Trace the steps of famous artists in Arles and Carrières des Lumières before your return flight home.
Ship Information With a design inspired by classic ocean yachts, the new 156-passenger AmaKristina (2017) offers a luxurious cruise experience on Europe’s most legendary rivers. This beautiful ship offers innovative features including connecting staterooms and triples that accommodate multi-generational families and groups. Guests will also enjoy the comfort of AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, hair styling and massage services, multiple dining venues, intimate wine rooms, fitness rooms and heated sun deck swimming pools with swim-up bars.
Stateroom Features:
All outside accommodations, with revolutionary “twin balconies” on the Violin and Cello decks
Deluxe hotel-style bedding with high-thread count linens, plush pillows and duvet cover
Your choice of one large bed (larger than queen size) or two twin beds
Cozy sitting area perfect for admiring scenic river views
Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet shower heads
Premium European toiletries, plus cotton bathrobes and slippers
Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
Flat-screen TV featuring local and satellite channels
In-room Entertainment-On-Demand system providing free Internet access, TV shows, movies and music
Individually controlled air-conditioning
Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
Suite Features:
Extra spacious Suites (350 sq. ft.) with revolutionary “twin balconies” and mini-bar
Roomy sitting area with a sofa and two chairs
Marble-appointed bathroom with a bathtub, separate shower & double sinks
Ship Features:
Panoramic Lounge with bar; piano and dance floor; and Observation Lounge
Complimentary specialty tea and coffee station available 24/7
Elevator reaches the Restaurant, Lobby/Main Lounge and staterooms on Violin, Cello and Piano Decks
Connecting and triple/quad occupancy available in select staterooms
Beauty salon, massage and spa services
Walking track, heated pool and fitness room
Bicycles for exploring on one’s own or on guided bicycle tour
Restaurant Features:
Main Dining Restaurant offers regional specialties using locally sourced ingredients
The Chef’s Table serves as an intimate dining alternative to the main restaurant. It features a view of the chef as he prepares a true tasting menu with three appetizers, a champagne sorbet intermezzo, three main courses and three decadent desserts, serving up a variety of regional specialties and traditional dishes with more choices and flavors than ever before.
Complimentary unlimited fine wine, beer, soft drinks and specialty coffees with every lunch and dinner, plus sparkling wine at breakfast
Arles is one of the southernmost ports on France's Rhone River, not far the Mediterranean Sea. The city is massive, but the Old Town area feels like its own little village and is quite walkable.
Once inside the heart of the city, it's easy (and we encourage you) to get lost in the plethora of winding cobblestone alleyways. You might even get a sense of deja vu. A number of Vincent Van Gogh's paintings feature scenes from Arles -- most notably, the Cafe Van Gogh from "Cafe Terrace at Night," which is nestled in a lively square among shops and other eateries.
Perhaps the city's most well-known feature, however, is its collection of some of the earliest Roman monuments. The arena, theater and cryptoporticus all date back to the 1st century BC The arena is still in use today. The city of Arles was the largest in the Roman Empire's Gallia Narbonensis province. In 1981 all the Roman monuments were listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The city is approximately a five-minute walk from the pier. On days when Arles' pier is overcrowded, riverboats dock at the nearby village of Tarascon and take a 20-minute shuttle ride to the city.
What's special about this port?
Scenes from Vincent van Gogh paintings, such as "Cafe Terrace at Night," can be spotted throughout town.
The city of Arles is massive, but the walkable Old Town area feels like its own little village.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Euros are the main currency. ATMs are scarce in Arles' Old Town. If you need to take out cash, stop by one of the ATMs in Place Lamartine, a square situated right outside the Old Town entrance.
Nestled in the heart of France's Provence region, the small city is quaint and intimate, with a chic vibe. You'll find stone buildings with pastel-colored shutters, boutique shops and hotels, and lively little squares -- including Place de L'Horloge, a roughly 10-minute walk from the pier. It literally feels as if you've stepped foot inside a postcard from the South of France.
Looks aside, the "City of Popes" is rich in Roman Catholic history. Between 1309 to 1377, popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome, due to unstable political conditions at the time. Avignon is home to the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), the largest gothic palace in the world, and adjacent Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral (known as the Avignon Cathedral).
Avignon is also conveniently located about an hour outside Marseille (which has the nearest, major international airport). This makes it a prime embarkation and disembarkation point for a number of river cruise lines.
What's so special about this port?
Avignon is home to the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), the largest Gothic palace in the world.
You'll feel like you've stepped foot inside a postcard from the South of France.
Viviers
Departure
Viviers
AmaWaterways
Grignan Excursion & Truffle Farm
Go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion.
Nestled in a particularly scenic and lovely section of the Rhone River Valley, Tournon is dominated by its signature castle, dating back to the 15th century. This medieval stronghold is in a remarkably good state of preservation as is the convent (now a school) and commercial buildings from that same period. The Chateau Museum (located in the castle) is certainly worth a look and there are numerous shops and small eateries clustered around.
The vineyards here, and on the hillsides of Tain-l'Hermitage, are part of the Hermitage Appellation, known for its red Syrah wines. Famous vintages are grown here; one of the most expensive bottles of wine ever was sold at auction, a 1961 Jaboulet La Chapelle, for nearly $15,000. The pedestrian bridge was designed by Marc Seguin, the inventor of the cable bridge. This makes it quick and easy to cross the river and visit Tain-l'Hermitage on the opposite side. Many pop in to visit the Valrhona Chocolate Museum.
What's special about this port?
Quaint medieval walled town, beautiful views of the vineyards.
This area is famous for its wine and chocolates; make sure to schedule a tasting.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The currency here is the euro. There are three ATMs: two are near the berth for the river cruise ships and one is on Rue Boissy d'Anglas just opposite the Gabriel Faure High School.
Language?
French is the official language of Tournon, but many locals also speak English.
Before the conquest of Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD, Vienne was the capital of Allobroges (Gallic tribe). Due to its strategic location along the river, in 47 BC it was transformed into an important Roman colony and provincial capital. Numerous ruins of Roman constructions can still be found in the town.
In 1311, at the Council of Vienne, Pope Clement V (1264-1314) abolished the Knights Templar order. During Middle Ages (5th-15th centuries), Vienne was part of Kingdom of Provence (Holy Roman Empire dependancy).
Town's current economy is based on food and tourism industries. Among the most popular tourist attractions are the annual Jazz festival (held in July), Roman ruins (Augustus and Livia temple, and a truncated pyramid with 4 arches), St Peter church (5th century, rebuilt in 9th century, former Benedictine abbey, now lapidary museum), St Maurice cathedral (basilica built 11th-16th centuries), St Andre en Bas church (former Benedictine monastery, rebuilt in 12th century)
The capital of the Rhone-Alpes region, Lyon is the second-largest metropolitan area in France. But this historic city beats Paris as a cruising destination, thanks to its prime location at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers.
The original medieval town, Vieux Lyon, was founded in 43 B.C. by a lieutenant of Julius Caesar on the hilltop district known today as Fourviere. Ruins of this Roman settlement are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with concerts and operas still held at the (partially intact) ancient amphitheater every summer.
In the Middle Ages, the city expanded to the east bank of the Saone, and it has belonged to multiple provinces over time. It wasn't until the Renaissance era that Lyon truly flourished, largely in the industries of silk-weaving and printing. Almost 500 years later, it still holds its status as a leading world center for textile design.
Modern Lyon is most famous for its excellent gastronomic scene, as well as many striking buildings, such as the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere, which looms over the city; La Tour Metallique, sometimes called the Eiffel Tower's "little sister"; and almost 100 walls painted with huge murals
Don't Miss in Lyon
Fourviere Hill has it all -- an unbeatable panoramic view, a mini-Eiffel Tower (not open to tourists), an 1870's basilica (open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and Roman ruins. The Amphitheatre des Trois Gaules (built circa 19 A.D.) is fenced in so you can view it only from the outside. Ride up and down the hill on the funicular for an extra novelty.
In the city center, keep an eye out for more than 100 trompe l'oeil murals and wall-sized frescoes, which tell the various stories of Lyon. Some stretch several stories high, from street level to top floor. At the outdoor Musee Urbain Tony Garnier (4 rue des Serpollieres), 30 inspiring murals are painted on the buildings of a housing project.
At night, more than 150 buildings and monuments areilluminated, with some using light projectors to create colorful patterns and images. Don't forget to step out on a balcony or open deck to view them from your ship.
If you're looking to do some souvenir shopping, the car-free Rue St. Jean in the Old Town is Lyon's mecca for souvenir shops. Wear flat shoes that can handle this cobblestone street. The parallel Rue des Trois Maries, between Place de la Baleine and Rue du Palais de Justice, is a quieter option when the crowds are hectic. This area also houses many bouchons (traditional restaurants), although these are aimed at tourists and do not necessarily serve the most authentic local cuisine. Ideal for cruisers, outdoor second-hand book markets are set up along the Saone at Quai de la Pecherie. The titles are mostly in French, but you will find lovely vintage maps and postcards. (10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday)
Where You're Docked?
Ships dock along the Quai Claude Bernard, on the east bank of the Rhone, near the University of Lyon. The Rhone's banks have been pedestrianized, with trees and flowers planted to brighten up the setting. It is possible to walk into town for shops, banks and Internet facilities. Many cafes, restaurants and bars are located on the opposite street, and some float on the water. A small boat-cafe called La Passagere (21 Quai Victor Augagneur; 33-4-72-73-36-98; 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily) serves alcohol, coffee and hot chocolate.
Getting Around?
The cruise line will provide complimentary transportation to and from shore excursions, but if you wish to strike out on your own, it's easy to walk to most of the sights (or catch the funicular from Vieux Lyon Metro station up the steep hill to Fourviere).
Public transport is very efficient and affordable. There are four metro (subway) lines, as well as four tram lines and more than 100 bus routes.
Language?
The official language is French. English is spoken, but not all shopkeepers or waiters are fluent
Abby Pocock
Travel Advisor
Inspired Moments Travel
AmaWaterways - France River Cruise Itinerary
Day 1
Check in at Intercontinental Marseille
Embark Cruise Arles
Check out at Intercontinental Marseille
Transfer from Hotel to Embarkation Dock in Arles
Transfer booked through Amawaterways
Arles - 2023 Colors of Provence
From romantic cities to foodie havens and artistic epicenters, this itinerary enlivens all your senses. Embark in Lyon, France’s culinary capital, and enjoy an evening illumination cruise. Savor the beauty of legendary vineyards and imbibe in local vintages like Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône. You can even become an expert in all things culinary: go in search of the highly prized "Black Diamond" truffles; learn how to pair chocolate with wine; and discover how olives turn into the Mediterranean’s nectar, olive oil. Trace the steps of famous artists in Arles and Carrières des Lumières before your return flight home.
Ship Information With a design inspired by classic ocean yachts, the new 156-passenger AmaKristina (2017) offers a luxurious cruise experience on Europe’s most legendary rivers. This beautiful ship offers innovative features including connecting staterooms and triples that accommodate multi-generational families and groups. Guests will also enjoy the comfort of AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, hair styling and massage services, multiple dining venues, intimate wine rooms, fitness rooms and heated sun deck swimming pools with swim-up bars.
Stateroom Features:
Suite Features:
Ship Features:
Restaurant Features:
Deck Plans
Sun Deck
Violin Deck
Cello Deck
Piano Deck
Shore Excursions
Included options see below.
Arles
Arles
Arles, France
Arles is one of the southernmost ports on France's Rhone River, not far the Mediterranean Sea. The city is massive, but the Old Town area feels like its own little village and is quite walkable.
Once inside the heart of the city, it's easy (and we encourage you) to get lost in the plethora of winding cobblestone alleyways. You might even get a sense of deja vu. A number of Vincent Van Gogh's paintings feature scenes from Arles -- most notably, the Cafe Van Gogh from "Cafe Terrace at Night," which is nestled in a lively square among shops and other eateries.
Perhaps the city's most well-known feature, however, is its collection of some of the earliest Roman monuments. The arena, theater and cryptoporticus all date back to the 1st century BC The arena is still in use today. The city of Arles was the largest in the Roman Empire's Gallia Narbonensis province. In 1981 all the Roman monuments were listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
The city is approximately a five-minute walk from the pier. On days when Arles' pier is overcrowded, riverboats dock at the nearby village of Tarascon and take a 20-minute shuttle ride to the city.
What's special about this port?
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Euros are the main currency. ATMs are scarce in Arles' Old Town. If you need to take out cash, stop by one of the ATMs in Place Lamartine, a square situated right outside the Old Town entrance.
Language?
French is the official language
Avignon
Avignon
Morning walking tour and Papal Palace
Avignon, France
Nestled in the heart of France's Provence region, the small city is quaint and intimate, with a chic vibe. You'll find stone buildings with pastel-colored shutters, boutique shops and hotels, and lively little squares -- including Place de L'Horloge, a roughly 10-minute walk from the pier. It literally feels as if you've stepped foot inside a postcard from the South of France.
Looks aside, the "City of Popes" is rich in Roman Catholic history. Between 1309 to 1377, popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome, due to unstable political conditions at the time. Avignon is home to the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), the largest gothic palace in the world, and adjacent Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral (known as the Avignon Cathedral).
Avignon is also conveniently located about an hour outside Marseille (which has the nearest, major international airport). This makes it a prime embarkation and disembarkation point for a number of river cruise lines.
What's so special about this port?
Viviers
Viviers
Grignan Excursion & Truffle Farm
Go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion.
Tournon
Tournon
Exclusive private steam train ride
Tournon, France
Nestled in a particularly scenic and lovely section of the Rhone River Valley, Tournon is dominated by its signature castle, dating back to the 15th century. This medieval stronghold is in a remarkably good state of preservation as is the convent (now a school) and commercial buildings from that same period. The Chateau Museum (located in the castle) is certainly worth a look and there are numerous shops and small eateries clustered around.
The vineyards here, and on the hillsides of Tain-l'Hermitage, are part of the Hermitage Appellation, known for its red Syrah wines. Famous vintages are grown here; one of the most expensive bottles of wine ever was sold at auction, a 1961 Jaboulet La Chapelle, for nearly $15,000. The pedestrian bridge was designed by Marc Seguin, the inventor of the cable bridge. This makes it quick and easy to cross the river and visit Tain-l'Hermitage on the opposite side. Many pop in to visit the Valrhona Chocolate Museum.
What's special about this port?
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
The currency here is the euro. There are three ATMs: two are near the berth for the river cruise ships and one is on Rue Boissy d'Anglas just opposite the Gabriel Faure High School.
Language?
French is the official language of Tournon, but many locals also speak English.
Vienne
Vienne
Roman ruins walking tour
Vienne, France
Before the conquest of Roman Empire (27 BC - 395 AD, Vienne was the capital of Allobroges (Gallic tribe). Due to its strategic location along the river, in 47 BC it was transformed into an important Roman colony and provincial capital. Numerous ruins of Roman constructions can still be found in the town.
In 1311, at the Council of Vienne, Pope Clement V (1264-1314) abolished the Knights Templar order. During Middle Ages (5th-15th centuries), Vienne was part of Kingdom of Provence (Holy Roman Empire dependancy).
Town's current economy is based on food and tourism industries. Among the most popular tourist attractions are the annual Jazz festival (held in July), Roman ruins (Augustus and Livia temple, and a truncated pyramid with 4 arches), St Peter church (5th century, rebuilt in 9th century, former Benedictine abbey, now lapidary museum), St Maurice cathedral (basilica built 11th-16th centuries), St Andre en Bas church (former Benedictine monastery, rebuilt in 12th century)
Lyon
Lyon
Beaujolais Excursion from Trevoux
Lyon, France
The capital of the Rhone-Alpes region, Lyon is the second-largest metropolitan area in France. But this historic city beats Paris as a cruising destination, thanks to its prime location at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers.
The original medieval town, Vieux Lyon, was founded in 43 B.C. by a lieutenant of Julius Caesar on the hilltop district known today as Fourviere. Ruins of this Roman settlement are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with concerts and operas still held at the (partially intact) ancient amphitheater every summer.
In the Middle Ages, the city expanded to the east bank of the Saone, and it has belonged to multiple provinces over time. It wasn't until the Renaissance era that Lyon truly flourished, largely in the industries of silk-weaving and printing. Almost 500 years later, it still holds its status as a leading world center for textile design.
Modern Lyon is most famous for its excellent gastronomic scene, as well as many striking buildings, such as the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere, which looms over the city; La Tour Metallique, sometimes called the Eiffel Tower's "little sister"; and almost 100 walls painted with huge murals
Don't Miss in Lyon
Fourviere Hill has it all -- an unbeatable panoramic view, a mini-Eiffel Tower (not open to tourists), an 1870's basilica (open 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.) and Roman ruins. The Amphitheatre des Trois Gaules (built circa 19 A.D.) is fenced in so you can view it only from the outside. Ride up and down the hill on the funicular for an extra novelty.
In the city center, keep an eye out for more than 100 trompe l'oeil murals and wall-sized frescoes, which tell the various stories of Lyon. Some stretch several stories high, from street level to top floor. At the outdoor Musee Urbain Tony Garnier (4 rue des Serpollieres), 30 inspiring murals are painted on the buildings of a housing project.
At night, more than 150 buildings and monuments are illuminated, with some using light projectors to create colorful patterns and images. Don't forget to step out on a balcony or open deck to view them from your ship.
If you're looking to do some souvenir shopping, the car-free Rue St. Jean in the Old Town is Lyon's mecca for souvenir shops. Wear flat shoes that can handle this cobblestone street. The parallel Rue des Trois Maries, between Place de la Baleine and Rue du Palais de Justice, is a quieter option when the crowds are hectic. This area also houses many bouchons (traditional restaurants), although these are aimed at tourists and do not necessarily serve the most authentic local cuisine. Ideal for cruisers, outdoor second-hand book markets are set up along the Saone at Quai de la Pecherie. The titles are mostly in French, but you will find lovely vintage maps and postcards. (10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday)
Where You're Docked?
Ships dock along the Quai Claude Bernard, on the east bank of the Rhone, near the University of Lyon. The Rhone's banks have been pedestrianized, with trees and flowers planted to brighten up the setting. It is possible to walk into town for shops, banks and Internet facilities. Many cafes, restaurants and bars are located on the opposite street, and some float on the water. A small boat-cafe called La Passagere (21 Quai Victor Augagneur; 33-4-72-73-36-98; 3 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily) serves alcohol, coffee and hot chocolate.
Getting Around?
The cruise line will provide complimentary transportation to and from shore excursions, but if you wish to strike out on your own, it's easy to walk to most of the sights (or catch the funicular from Vieux Lyon Metro station up the steep hill to Fourviere).
Public transport is very efficient and affordable. There are four metro (subway) lines, as well as four tram lines and more than 100 bus routes.
Language?
The official language is French. English is spoken, but not all shopkeepers or waiters are fluent
Disembark and Return to USA
Lyon
DISEMBARKATION
Transfer from dock to Lyon Airport
Transfer booked through Amawaterways