Romans on the Rhone
Flights from London→Lyon → Vienne → Arles → Nimes → Avignon → Tournon sur Rhone→Return to London
Organised by Noble Caledonia.
From
from £3195
per person
Overview
Discover the cultural and historical splendours of the Rhône aboard the MS Van Gogh.
Originating in the Valais region of the Swiss Alps, the historic River Rhône meanders down through the Jura mountains to Lyon, where it meets the River Saône and continues south through Provence. Perhaps more than any other region of France, Provence has experienced a truly diverse and turbulent history. Nomadic tribes and settlements can be traced back over 300,000 years, and during Noble Caledonia’s exploration of Provence, you will learn about the region's history, from the Roman Empire to the feuding warlords of the Middle Ages. Provence was one of Rome's earliest conquests outside of Italy, and few regions of the extensive Roman Empire have retained such impressive buildings.
Noble Caledonia’s unique itinerary reveals many historic highlights, including the magnificent Pont du Gard which, built during the time of Emperor Claudius, is the highest existing Roman aqueduct and one of the most impressive examples of Roman civil engineering, and the Maison Carrée monument in Nîmes, a remarkably well-preserved oblong Roman temple. You will also spend time in Arles, known as the ‘Little Rome of Gaul’, with its many Roman remains including the amphitheatre and Roman Theatre. Such monuments testify to Rome's great power and, with Noble Caledonia’s guest speaker and excellent local guides, you will visit these imposing Roman relics, learning more about Roman antiquity. There will also be ample time spent on board sailing, allowing you to appreciate the wonderful scenery and absorb the subtle changes in landscapes along the river. All this will be accomplished with ease from the comfort of the delightful 100-passenger MS Van Gogh.
Highlights
- Embark on the MS Van Gogh and meet your fellow travellers during a special welcome reception and dinner.
- Discover the Fourvière Basilica and the ancient Roman Theatre and Odeon during a guided tour of historic Lyon.
- Explore the unique "traboules"—hidden historic passageways—located throughout the charming old town of Lyon.
- Uncover the Roman history of the Rhone Valley with visits to the Temple of Augustus and Livia in the town of Vienne.
- Experience the architectural legacy of Arles, featuring a 12th-century Romanesque Basilica and a famous Roman amphitheatre.
- View rare Roman-era artefacts, including an exceptionally preserved trading barge, at the Arles archaeological museum.
- Visit the Maison Carrée in Nîmes, a remarkably well-preserved 1st-century Roman temple featuring exquisite Corinthian carvings.
- Witness the engineering mastery of the Pont du Gard, an iconic three-tiered Roman aqueduct spanning the Gardon Gorge.
- Tour Avignon’s Palais des Papes, recognized as the largest and most significant Medieval Gothic building in Europe.
- Enjoy a private tour and tasting session at a renowned vineyard in Tain L'Hermitage, a premier centre for Côtes du Rhône wines.
Explore further
Destination guides
More river cruises
The ship
Itinerary
- 1
Day 1 London to Lyon, France.
Fly by scheduled flight. Upon arrival transfer to the MS Van Gogh and embark. Meet your fellow travellers this evening during welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
- 2
Day 2 Lyon.
This morning we will discover the charming city of Lyon. Our guided city tour will begin with a stop at the Fourviere Basilica which dominates the skyline of Lyon and from where we can take in breathtaking views. The history of the basilica dates from 1168 when Olivier de Chavannes, a canon of Lyon Cathedral, founded a church over the ruins of the old Roman forum. The small chapel that was dedicated to the Virgin Mary has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. Its current known form dates back to 1740 and its most recent renovation was in 2008. We will continue to the remains of the original Roman Theatre and Odeon, which are still used today for musical performances. Later, we return to Lyon's old town where a walking tour will discover the ‘traboules', a type of passageway that is typical of the city. Return to the vessel for lunch and this afternoon relax on board as we sail past the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers as we make our way to Vienne.
- 3
Day 3 Vienne.
We will spend this morning in the fine Roman town of Vienne, beautifully located in the Rhone Valley and surrounded by hills. During our walking tour, we will learn about its Roman era with a visit to the Temple of Augustus and Livia, as well as the Gallo-Roman Museum which houses many artefacts from the town. During our walk we will also discover the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral St Maurice. Those who wish can ascend the hillside above the town to visit Vienne's Roman theatre which was one of the largest in the Roman Empire with a capacity for 13,000 spectators. Relax on board this afternoon as we continue our journey south.
- 4
Day 4 Arles.
Enjoy a leisurely morning on board as we sail through the Provencal countryside toward the city of Arles where we will arrive over lunch. Once a major port under the Romans, the city has a unique and extensive history that can be seen plainly throughout its charming, cobbled streets which are built among and often integrate the Roman ruins. This afternoon, join a walking tour into the old town of Arles, including the famous amphitheatre, the Roman theatre, and the former cathedral of St Triomphe, a Romanesque Basilica constructed in the 12th century. Continue to the archaeological museum, where artefacts from across Arles' long history are displayed. Due to centuries of silt build-up and shifting river courses, there are some exceptionally well-preserved artefacts that have been discovered in the Rhone, including a rare trading barge from the Roman era. Return to the ship this evening and remain moored overnight.
- 5
Day 5 Arles for Nimes.
This morning we will embark on a tour to the city of Nimes, one of the finest examples of prosperous Gallo-Roman settlements in southern France. Originally named Nemausus (for the local god of spring), the city served as a regional Celtic capital. Though succumbing to Roman control in 121 BC, the city's continued importance was assured by its location on the Via Domitia, the main Roman road between northern Italy and Spain. The best-known monument of Nimes is the Maison Carree, a remarkably well-preserved oblong Roman temple built during the 1st century AD, featuring exquisite carvings along the cornice and on the Corinthian capitals. Today, the building is a museum and contains an imposing statue of Apollo. We will enjoy lunch ashore before we continue to the scenic Gardon Gorge, an area of natural beauty around the River Gardon. See the famous Pont du Gard, an aqueduct bridge that spans the river in three tiers of arches. This exceptionally preserved bridge which was built in the 1st century AD, once provided fresh water to Nimes and remains one of the best-preserved sections of aqueduct in the world. After our visit we will rejoin the MS Van Gogh in Avignon. Alternatively, you may choose to join a half day tour to the nearby village of Les Baux-de-Provence to visit the spectacular Carrières des Lumières. Located in a former quarry, this ever-changing space displays wonderful educational light shows projected throughout the carved-out space. These shows usually focus on the life and work of famous artists, telling their stories through light and sound as you explore the space. Return to Arles and sail to Avignon, where we remain moored overnight.
- 6
Day 6 Avignon.
This morning there will be a choice of excursions. You may like to join a tour to the nearby village of Vaison la Romaine, the site of France's most extensive archaeological site. Excavations of this sleepy village began in the early 20th century and revealed a trove of Roman ruins and artefacts. Explore the streets and foundations of a once thriving Roman town and visit the remarkably well-preserved theatre dug into the hillside. Alternatively, you may wish to explore the charming Medieval city of Avignon, the great City of the Popes which is enclosed by Medieval walls. Our guided walking tour here will include the Palais des Papes, one of the wonders of Provence and the largest and most important Medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. We will also visit the Cathedral and famous Pont Benezet, a ruined bridge that once spanned the Rhone between Villeneuve les Avignon and Avignon. Return to the ship for lunch, before enjoying an afternoon at leisure in Avignon. Sail this evening.
- 7
Day 7 Tournon sur Rhone.
Arrive overnight in the town of Tournon sur Rhone, overlooked on one bank by Tournon Castle, and on the other by the terraced vineyards of Tain L'Hermitage. Today we will cross to the opposite bank of the river to visit Tain L'Hermitage. This important winemaking centre produces many excellent Côtes du Rhône wines and we will visit one of the local vineyards for a tour and a tasting. Following your visit, return to the town for a walk through the centre, admiring its Medieval church and famous school. Spend the afternoon at leisure before enjoying the farewell dinner as we sail for Lyon this evening.
- 8
Day 8 Lyon to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to Lyon Airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Meet your Experts
A distinguished team of guest lecturers, expedition leaders and specialist hosts will be travelling with you on selected departures — enriching your voyage with their insight, expertise and company.
Dr Ross King
Dr Ross King is the author of numerous books on French and Italian art, history and architecture, including Brunelleschi's Dome, The Judgment of Paris, and Mad Enchantment: Claude Monet and the Painting of the Water Lilies . He has won both the Governor-General's Award in Canada and the BookSense Book of the Year in the United States.
The Ship
Van Gogh
For our voyages along the Rhone we have chartered the delightful MS Van Gogh from our associates at Croisi Europe. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 105 passengers and offers spacious public areas and comfortable cabins. She is a charming vessel and joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.
Deck plan
Life aboard Van Gogh
The MS Van Gogh is an intimate and charming vessel accommodating 105 passengers, providing a relaxed and informal environment for river cruising. With its English-speaking atmosphere, dedicated onboard team, and scenic deck spaces, it is an ideal choice for travellers seeking a comfortable, sociable experience along the Rhone.
Quick facts
Passengers
105
Built
1999
Length
110 metres
Width
11.4 metres
Suites
Cabins are located on the Main and Upper Decks, each featuring an en-suite bathroom with shower, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, and safe. Twin cabins measure 15 square metres, while single cabins measure 11 square metres.
- •Main Deck cabins feature picture windows.
- •Upper Deck cabins feature French Balcony style floor-to-ceiling sliding windows.
- •Twin beds can be configured as two singles or one double bed.
- •Daily housekeeping and evening turn-down service are provided.
Life on board
The ship features elegantly furnished public areas, including a relaxing lounge and a spacious Sun Deck for enjoying river views. The atmosphere is relaxed and informal, with a dedicated team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager, and Guest Speaker.
- •Sun Deck is available for relaxation but may close during low bridges or evening hours.
- •Lounge on the Upper Deck provides a space to socialise and access the bar.
- •Small gift shop on board for souvenirs and practical items.
- •Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in cabins and public areas.
- •Daily programme delivered to cabins each evening.
Dining
Meals are served in a single-sitting, open-seating restaurant on the Upper Deck. The cuisine is international with regional specialities.
- •Breakfast and lunch are buffet style; dinner is a served set menu.
- •Alcoholic and soft drinks are included, excluding premium brands and sparkling wine.
- •Tea and coffee available on a self-serve basis throughout the day.
- •Notify the Reservations Department in advance of specific dietary requirements.
- •Galley restrictions mean choices at each course cannot always be guaranteed.
Practical information
The ship operates on a cash-free system with a Euro-based onboard account and provides 24-hour reception services. The environment is English-speaking with a casual dress code.
- •Dress code is casual during the day and smart casual for evenings.
- •Voltage is 220v with 2-pin power outlets; bring an international adaptor.
- •No lift on board; no laundry facilities available.
- •Smoking is prohibited in cabins and public areas; use designated smoking areas only.
- •Wi-Fi connectivity may be slow or unavailable in rural areas or locks.
- •Gratuities are included in the holiday price.
Ship information may be subject to operational change. Please contact us for the latest details before booking.
Departures & pricing
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 7 to 14 October 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Main Deck Twin | £3395 | £3195 |
| 2 Upper Deck Twin with French Balcony | — | — |
| 3 Main Deck Single | — | — |
Tour Reference Code: RCVG071027
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Economy class scheduled air travel
- Seven nights aboard MS Van Gogh on a full board basis
- All-inclusive drinks from 10am to 11pm daily (please note premium brands & sparkling wine are not included)
- Shore excursions
- Cruise Director
- Tour Manager
- Guest Speaker
- Gratuities
- Transfers
- Port taxes
- Airport taxes
Not Included:
- Travel insurance.
Please note that availability and prices shown on our website are not updated in real time and may change. For the latest availability and pricing, please call 0800 678 3787