Provence River Cruise
Avignon, Arles and the countryside the painters loved.
Get Free Rhône Cruise QuotesThe southern end of the Rhône is the reason many people book this river. A Provence river cruise puts Avignon and Arles on your doorstep and the countryside of Van Gogh and Cézanne within reach.
Avignon
In the fourteenth century the popes lived in Avignon, and the Palais des Papes they built is one of the largest Gothic palaces in Europe. Below it, the Pont Saint-Bénézet — the bridge of the children’s song — reaches only partway across the river. River ships moor along the ramparts, so the old town is a short walk away. The Avignon tourist office lists festival dates and opening hours.
Arles
Arles has a Roman amphitheater still used for events, a Roman theater and a cluster of early Christian and Romanesque monuments. Vincent van Gogh lived here in 1888 and 1889 and painted some of his best-known canvases; walking routes mark the places he painted.
Excursions From a Provence River Cruise
Pont du Gard
The three-tiered Roman aqueduct bridge over the Gardon river, a short ride from Avignon.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape
The village that gave its name to one of the Rhône’s most famous wines, with tastings in local cellars.
Les Baux-de-Provence
A hilltop village and castle ruins on a limestone spur in the Alpilles.
The Camargue
The Rhône delta’s wetlands, with flamingos, white horses and black bulls.
Orange
A Roman theater with its original stage wall still standing.
Lavender country
In early summer, some lines run excursions to the lavender fields of the Luberon or Valensole plateau.
For more inspiration, see Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur tourism. Planning time in other ports in the region? Europe Port Excursions covers shore tours across Europe.
Timing a Provence River Cruise
| Season | What Provence is like |
|---|---|
| Spring | Mild days, green countryside, comfortable walking tours |
| Early summer | Lavender coming into bloom inland; long, warm days |
| High summer | Hot afternoons; tours scheduled early, busy festival season in Avignon |
| Autumn | Grape harvest, softer light, fewer crowds |
| December | Some festive departures with Christmas markets and santon figurines |
Provence River Cruise Questions
Does a Provence river cruise see lavender?
Only in season. Lavender usually blooms from late June into July, and the best fields are inland, so you will see them on an excursion rather than from the ship.
Can I visit the Pont du Gard from the ship?
Yes, it is a common excursion from Avignon. The Roman aqueduct bridge is a short coach ride away and has a visitor center and riverside paths.
What is the mistral?
A strong, dry north wind that funnels down the Rhône valley, often for a few days at a time. It brings clear skies but can feel cold, so pack a windproof layer even in spring.
Plan Your Provence River Cruise
Want lavender, the Camargue or as long as possible in Avignon? Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will find the itinerary and send free quotes.
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