There are few destinations as captivating as France. From elegant boulevards and inviting boulangeries to idyllic countryside and Michelin-starred dining, every corner offers something new.
There are few destinations as captivating as France. From elegant boulevards and inviting boulangeries to idyllic countryside and Michelin-starred dining, every corner offers something new.
One of the most rewarding ways to experience it all is by river, along iconic waterways such as the Rhône, Seine, Dordogne and Garonne. Flowing through the heart of the country, they have captured travellers’ imaginations for centuries, tracing timeless cityscapes, picturesque vineyards and historic châteaux. Sailing these rivers and exploring each port reveals the very essence of France, and with Viking, the experience is unparalleled.
With award-winning Longships thoughtfully designed to navigate these famed routes in comfort, there is no better way to explore the country.encounters. This is complemented by its exclusive docking locations and decades-long relationships forged with local communities, bringing you right into the heart of each destination. On board, experiences are designed to optimise discovery. Verandas frame the passing landscape, menus highlight regional flavours, and serene Scandinavian design come together to ensure your journey is as comfortable as it is enriching.
As part of this commitment to onboard enrichment, Viking delivers guest lectures, shedding light on each destination’s art, architecture, geopolitics, natural world and more. It also runs ‘Port Talks’ presentations which allow you to gain insight into your next day’s port of call. If music or the performing arts are of interest to you, each Viking itinerary also highlights the most famous cultural performing art form of the region through destination performances.
This is complemented by classical and regional musicians who are invited on board to perform. From Paris’s renowned landmarks to the pastoral orchards of Normandy, this river passes through some of France’s most iconic destinations – and you can experience it all on Viking’s Explore famous landmarks with an award-winning cruise line company on an endless voyage of discovery.
Picture: Viking As you sail roundtrip from Paris, view the masterpieces of the Louvre; explore famous landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe and Grand Palais; and enjoy the city’s revered café culture. In Rouen, admire half-timbered houses and its Gothic Cathedral, before visiting Normandy and its historic beaches for a reflection on the events of World War II.
On Viking’s included excursion, you can visit memorials at Ranville, Juno Beach and Arromanches, for an understanding of the wartime events that had far reaching consequences for the British Commonwealth. Visit Normandy and its historic beaches for a reflection on the events of World War II.
Picture: Viking Each stop on this voyage showcases the best of northern France, from the region’s most famous sites to its rich heritageitinerary, you will have the opportunity to take in these wonders as you sail from Avignon to Lyon or vice versa. In Avignon, admire the church-fortress of Palais des Papes, a work of Gothic splendour, and marvel at the ruins of the Pont d’Avignon, a 12th-century bridge which once spanned the river.
In Arles, take in its Gallo-Roman ruins and discover the city’s artistic heritage, which once served as the inspiration for many of Vincent van Gogh’s works. On an one of Viking’s included shore excursions, you will gain firsthand experience of the diverse architecture and vibrant colours that inspired this great artist. Your voyage will then take you to the sleepy town of Viviers, where you can amble along its sycamore-lined avenue and take in its beautiful architecture.
Stroll past the Maison des Chevaliers, the oldest house in town and a Renaissance treasure. Here, you will also find the 11th-century St. Vincent Cathedral, the smallest cathedral in France. Continue to the historic commune of Tournon. Nestled between the river and vineyard-covered hills, and home to an ancient castle overlooking the water, Tournon is a stunning destination.
As you venture further along the river, explore Vienne, one of France’s oldest towns. Wander past its Roman remains and well-preserved medieval buildings. Conclude your voyage in Lyon, considered France’s gastronomic capital and a significant cultural centre. Enjoy a wealth of outstanding museums, Renaissance architecture, and a selection of exceptional Lyonnaise eateries.southwest France, the Dordogne and Garonne rivers meet at the Bec d’Ambès to form the Gironde estuary near Bordeaux.
This region boasts sweeping vineyards, elegant châteaux and sunlit hillsides. Sailing roundtrip from Bordeaux, begin your journey in this famed city. Bordeaux is renowned for its wine-making heritage, rich art and history, and well-preserved 18th-century architecture. Filled with magnificent churches, picturesque boulevards and stunning gardens, it also forms the world’s largest urban UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From here, continue your voyage to Libourne, the wine-making capital of northern Gironde. A culinary haven, Libourne is home to an abundance of bistros and food markets serving fresh produce and regional dishes. The town is also situated in the heart of wine country and is renowned for its excellent wines crafted from merlot, cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc grapes. Continue to the historic village of Bourg.
Stroll its cobblestone streets while taking in its rich architectural heritage, before venturing further to the scenic town of , which boasts a UNESCO-listed 17th-century citadel. Continue to Pauillac, a famed wine-growing village which neighbours other renowned wine locations such as Saint Estéphe and Saint-Julien. Together, they produce some of the world’s most prestigious wines. On a Viking included excursion, you will have the opportunity to tour one of the region’s most respected châteaux.
On a Viking included excursion, you will have the opportunity to tour one of France's most highly-regarded châteaux. Picture: Viking Your voyage will then take you to the charming town of Cadillac where you can admire its 17th-century castle, before venturing to nearby Sauternes to enjoy a wine tasting. Conclude your voyage by returning to Bordeaux. Exploring France by river showcases the very best of the country, and there is no better way to experience it all than with Viking.
On board a Viking Longship, life moves gently. Unpack once and enjoy a natural, unhurried rhythm as you move effortlessly through France. With no hotel changes or daily transfers, river travel feels seamless. Viking also offers exceptional value.
Your fare includes a river view stateroom; all meals on board; wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; an excursion in every port; all gratuities and unlimited Wi-Fi. You will also enjoy award-winning comfort and service.
Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being namedMost Trusted River Cruise Operator in Australia for the second year in a row, rated Number One for Rivers byIf you would like to experience France for yourself, download Viking’s France Destination Guide. Inside, you will find all the inspiration you need to plan your next voyage.
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