Grand France with 2 Nights in French Riviera for Wine Lovers (Southbound) 2025

Conditional cancellation
24/7 customer support
Best price guarantee

Description

Summary

Starts
Paris
Duration
17 days
Languages
English
Difficulty
Easy
Minimum age
8 years

Description

Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, art, and gastronomy intertwine to create an unforgettable journey. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-kissed shores of the French Riviera, this tour offers a captivating blend of cultural exploration and scenic beauty. Discover the artistic inspirations of Monet and Van Gogh, delve into the rich history of Normandy's beaches, and savor the culinary delights of Lyon. With luxurious accommodations aboard your Suite Ship® and expertly guided excursions, each day promises new adventures and cherished memories. Whether you're strolling through medieval towns, tasting exquisite wines, or marveling at architectural wonders, this tour is your gateway to the timeless allure of France.

Read more

Included

Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites

Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients

Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal

Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room

Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials

Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.

Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats

Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese

Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere

Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner

Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options

Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections

Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor

Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés

New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day

Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck

Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

Read more

Avalon Waterways River cruise ship

Read more

16 nights of accommodation onboard an Avalon Waterways River cruise ship

Read more

Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director

Read more

Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

Panoramic windows throughout the ship

Elegant, contemporary design & decor

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

Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections

Read more

Destinations

View of Mediterranean luxury resort and bay with yachts. Nice, Cote d'Azur, France. Nice
Dijon - city in FranceDijon
Paris, France. Panoramic view from Arc de Triomphe. Eiffel Tower and Avenue des Champs Elysees. Europe.Paris
Beaune - city in FranceBeaune
The City of Lyon in the daytime.Lyon
Arles - city in FranceArles
Les Andelys
photo of The Old Mill of Vernon in Vernon Normandy France.Vernon
Avignon - city in FranceAvignon
Mâcon - city in FranceMâcon
Rouen - city in FranceRouen

Map

Attractions

#ILoveNICE, Vieux Nice, Nice, Maritime Alps, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur, Metropolitan France, France#ILoveNICE
Remparts d'Avignon
Normandy American CemeteryNormandy American Cemetery
Narrow House
Château de GaillonChâteau de Gaillon
Normandy House of Linen
Les Amis de la Mine
photo of Cleres Zoological Park in France.Cleres Zoological Park
photo of Palace of the Popes (Palais des Papes), once fortress and palace, one of the largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings in Europe, at morning, Avignon, France.Palais des Papes
Photo of Champ de Mars view from top of Eiffel tower looking down see the entire city as a beautiful classic architecture, France.Champ de Mars
The Parrots Park
OL Le Musée
photo of on the way in the beautiful valley of the Seine at Château Gaillard in Les Andelys, Normandy, France.Château Gaillard
Photo of beautiful summer view of Louvre Museum, one of the world's most important museums, historic monument and parisian landmark, Paris, France.Louvre Museum
Photo of Versailles palace outside Paris at sunset, France.Palace of Versailles
The Pointe Du HocThe Pointe Du Hoc
The cathedral Notre-Dame de Bayeux. Antique Norman-Romanesque cathedral is located in the Bayeux, Calvados department of Normandy, France.Bayeux Cathedral
Gisors Castle
L'espace Van Gogh
Orange Cathedral
Zoo Upie
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune, Beaune, Côte-d'Or, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Metropolitan France, FranceHôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Parc Ornavik
Photo of Arc de Triomphe  Early in the morning with the French flag, France.Arc de Triomphe
Viviers Cathedral
Omaha Beach Memorial, Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, Bayeux, Calvados, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceOmaha Beach Memorial
Photo of Eiffel Tower in Paris, France best Destinations in Europe.Eiffel Tower
Berzé Castle
Omaha Beach Golf, Port-en-Bessin-Huppain, Bayeux, Calvados, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceOmaha Beach Golf
photo of the Roman Arles Amphitheatre in the Old Town of Arles in France.Arles Amphitheatre
Parc naturel Du Marais
Opéra Bastille
Calvados Pierre HUET
Île de la CitéÎle de la Cité
Touroparc Zoo
Musée du car
Botanical Garden, Bayeux, Calvados, Normandy, Metropolitan France, FranceBotanical Garden
Photo of Pyramid in Louvre Museum at sunset, France.Louvre Pyramid
photo of the equestrian monument of King Louis XIV in Place Bellecour at morning in Lyon, France.Place Bellecour
Cathedral of Our Lady of Évreux, Normandy, FranceÉvreux Cathedral
Gr tour Mm
Château de Simiane
Cite du Chocolat Valrhona

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1 – Day 1: Paris

  • Paris - Arrival day
  • More

Arrive in the enchanting city of Paris, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits. Spend your afternoon exploring the romantic streets, indulging in shopping, or savoring a classic Parisian café experience. As evening falls, embark on a serene overnight cruise to Vernon, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey through France.

Read more
Day 2

Day 2 – Day 2: Vernon and Les Andelys

  • Vernon
  • Les Andelys
  • More
  • Château Gaillard
  • Biotropica, animal gardens
  • More

Discover the artistic allure of Vernon with a visit to the Chateau des Tourelles or explore the inspirational grounds of Monet's House and Gardens. Alternatively, marvel at the grandeur of Bizy Castle. Enjoy a traditional French luncheon on board as you sail to the picturesque town of Les Andelys. Here, a guided walking tour reveals the charm of one of France's most scenic spots along the Seine.

Read more
Day 3

Day 3 – Day 3: Caudebec

  • Honfleur
  • More
  • Valmont Abbey
  • More

Immerse yourself in the history of Normandy with a guided trip along the Normandy Abbeys Route, showcasing medieval Benedictine and Augustine abbeys. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Seine. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Spend the night docked in Caudebec, surrounded by the serene beauty of the Seine.

Read more
Day 4

Day 4 – Day 4: Normandy Beaches and Rouen

  • Rouen
  • More
  • Tour Vauban de Tatihou
  • Botanical Garden
  • Arbre de la Liberté
  • More

Pay homage to the heroes of WWII with a guided tour of Normandy's landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian sites or delve into Normandy's rich traditions with a brandy tasting in Calvados. As night falls, enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Rouen.

Read more
Day 5

Day 5 – Day 5: Rouen and Conflans

  • Rouen
  • More
  • Cleres Zoological Park
  • Évreux Cathedral
  • More

Explore Rouen, the city where Joan of Arc met her fate. A guided walking tour reveals the medieval quarter, the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the 16th-century Astronomical Clock. Alternatively, discover the city's hidden gems on a bike tour. As evening approaches, enjoy a relaxing cruise to Conflans.

Read more
Day 6

Day 6 – Day 6: Conflans and Paris

  • Paris
  • More
  • Château de Malmaison
  • Queen's House
  • More

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon Bonaparte. Alternatively, embark on an optional excursion to the Palace of Versailles. As night falls, cruise back to the vibrant city of Paris.

Read more
Day 7

Day 7 – Day 7: Paris

  • Paris
  • More
  • Louvre Museum
  • Eiffel Tower
  • Palais Garnier
  • More

Delve into the heart of Paris with a guided walk through its historic sites, including the Palais-Royal and the Louvre pyramid. Alternatively, embark on a city tour to see iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Spend your afternoon exploring the city at your leisure, perhaps enjoying a glass of wine at a Left Bank café.

Read more
Day 8

Day 8 – Day 8: Paris to Beaune

  • Paris
  • Dijon
  • Beaune
  • More
  • Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
  • More

Travel from Paris to Dijon by high-speed train, then continue to the charming town of Beaune. Visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu Charity Hospital, home to Van der Weyden's masterpiece, 'The Last Judgement.' In the afternoon, journey to Chalon-sur-Saône to board your Suite Ship® for an overnight docking in Tournus.

Read more
Day 9

Day 9 – Day 9: Tournus and Mâcon

  • Mâcon
  • More
  • Touroparc Zoo
  • More

Explore Tournus, one of Burgundy's oldest monastic centers, with a guided tour highlighting its historical significance. In the afternoon, enjoy a wine tasting excursion to a Chardonnay cellar or attend a wine lecture hosted by your Master of Wine while sailing to Mâcon. Overnight docking in Trévoux offers a peaceful end to the day.

Read more
Day 10

Day 10 – Day 10: Lyon

  • Lyon
  • More
  • Place Bellecour
  • Tour d'Oingt
  • More

Sail into the vibrant city of Lyon, renowned for its culinary delights. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour, exploring the architectural wonders from Fourvière Hill and the medieval alleyways of the Old Town. Alternatively, discover Lyon's architectural district by bike. In the evening, savor live entertainment on board as you dock overnight in Lyon.

Read more
Day 11

Day 11 – Day 11: Lyon and Beaujolais

  • Lyon
  • More
  • Berzé Castle
  • More

Embark on a culinary walk through Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, or take a guided tour to the picturesque Beaujolais region to learn about its renowned wines. In the evening, enjoy an onboard food and wine pairing dinner hosted by your Master of Wine. As night falls, cruise to Tournon.

Read more
Day 12

Day 12 – Day 12: Tournon and Viviers

  • Avignon
  • More
  • Château de Crussol
  • More

Explore the medieval charm of Tournon with a guided walking tour, including a visit to the Cité du Chocolat for a wine and chocolate tasting. Alternatively, hike through the vineyards for breathtaking views. In the afternoon, sail to Viviers, where a guided tour reveals its Romanesque cathedral and historical influences. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Avignon.

Read more
Day 13

Day 13 – Day 13: Avignon

  • Avignon
  • More
  • Palais des Papes
  • Château de Grignan
  • More

Uncover the history of Avignon with a guided tour of the fortress city, including a visit to the impressive Palace of the Popes. Alternatively, enjoy a trip to the renowned wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a taste of the Rhône wine region. As evening falls, enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise to Arles.

Read more
Day 14

Day 14 – Day 14: Arles

  • Arles
  • More
  • Arles Amphitheatre
  • More

Experience the artistic spirit of Arles with a guided walking tour, including a visit to the Roman Amphitheater. Alternatively, participate in a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh or enjoy a power walk with your Adventure Host. Spend your free time relaxing at Le Café Van Gogh before an overnight docking in Arles.

Read more
Day 15

Day 15 – Day 15: Arles to Nice

  • Arles
  • Nice
  • More

After breakfast, journey to the glamorous city of Nice, located on the stunning French Riviera. Enjoy the scenic drive along the Mediterranean coast, taking in the breathtaking views as you approach the 'Queen of the French Riviera.'

Read more
Day 16

Day 16 – Day 16: Nice

  • Nice
  • More
  • #ILoveNICE
  • More

Explore the vibrant city of Nice with a guided sightseeing tour. Discover the narrow, winding streets and baroque churches of Vieux Nice, the old city that has retained its charm since the 1700s. Spend your day soaking in the Mediterranean atmosphere of this iconic French Riviera destination.

Read more
Day 17

Day 17 – Day 17: Nice

  • Nice - Departure day
  • More

Conclude your extraordinary journey with a final breakfast in Nice. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and breathtaking sights you've encountered throughout your multi-day tour of France.

Read more

Similar tours

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.