Signature Southern France Cruise

Your fare excludes:

Day 1: Lyon

Welcome to France and the ancient city of Lyon. France’s third largest city is its gastronomic capital, promising a blend of fascinating history and a sophisticated dining and shopping scene. Upon arrival, transfer to Scenic Sapphire, where your friendly crew await to welcome you on board. Spend the afternoon exploring your Scenic Space-Ship. Relax in your luxurious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck and admire the magnificent views across the city of Lyon. You will remain docked here overnight, so you can go onshore to explore some of the city’s culinary delights. Please book your flight to arrive into Lyon prior to 07:00 PM.

Day 2: Lyon > Vienne

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Vienne today. Boasting a 2,000-year history, this city is brimming with Roman history, including a terraced theatre, first century temple, ancient baths and the Vienne Pyramid, which was the site of the Roman circus where chariot races would have been held.

Day 3: Châteauneuf-du-Pape > Arles

Châteauneuf-du-Pape is an historic village in the southern Rhône Valley, famous for its full-bodied red wines made primarily from Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre grapes. The name means ‘new castle of the pope’ as it was a papal summer residence in the 14th century.

Today, it is a celebrated wine region with over 300 wineries offering tastings and tours, attracting wine lovers from around the world.

Day 4: Arles > Avignon

The southernmost point of your journey, Arles is in the Provence region and close to the Mediterranean coast. Founded around 56BC by Julius Caesar, the city has a rich Roman heritage and is thought to have the largest number of Roman ruins outside the Eternal City itself. The remnants of ancient monuments, theatres, baths and administrative buildings are strewn along the river’s left bank. It was also the home of Vincent van Gogh in 1888 and he drew inspiration from the landscape for many of his paintings and drawings.

Day 5: Avignon

Wake in the ancient city of Avignon. Known as the ‘City of the Popes’, Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture. At the same time, it also has a youthful energy and a buzzing arts scene. Encompassed by fortified walls, the former papal capital is home to the World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d’Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea.

Day 6: Viviers

This morning you will arrive in Viviers, often described as an open-air museum thanks to its rich medieval heritage and architecture. The town was founded in the fifth century, and as you walk down the narrow, zig-zagging lanes, you will feel as though little has changed in the past 1,600 years. At its peak in the Middle Ages, Viviers was home to 30,000 people, today less than 4,000 people live here, happily secluded in their own world.

Day 7: Tournon

Arrive in the picturesque town of Tournon this afternoon. This hillside village is known for its terraced vineyards, enchanting castle dating back to the 10th century and quaint cobblestoned streets.

Day 8: Lyon

Greet the day in Lyon. You may like to arrange for your butler to deliver a coffee to your suite and enjoy it in your private Scenic Sun Lounge before venturing out for the day. Sitting at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon was founded by the Romans in 43BC. Since the mid-1500s it has been a financial and industrial powerhouse and today is recognised as France’s culinary capital. The city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants – including 20 that hold Michelin stars – and eating well is a way of life.

Day 9: Mâcon

Dock in the town of Mâcon, which will be your base for exploring the surrounding south Burgundy region. Mâcon sits right on the edge of the river, with pretty pastel-hued buildings, ancient churches and picturesque quays. It is close to the Burgundy wine region, one of the most famous in France, which produces exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and sparkling.

Day 10: Mâcon

Stay in Mâcon this morning to discover more of the region’s gourmet delights and dramatic architecture.

Day 11: Lyon

Your journey concludes this morning. Farewell your fellow guests and Scenic crew, taking with you delicious memories of this gourmet journey.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water.

This cruise has multiple departure dates up to October 2027.

Super Earlybird Dollar Discount - Save $2,500pp*

• Standard Suite from $8,795 $6,295 pp twin share / $16,590 $10,744 pp sole use*
• Balcony Suite from $12,340 $9,840 pp twin share / $23,680 $17,834 pp sole use*
• Junior Balcony Suite from $12,995 $10,495 pp twin share / $24,990 $19,144 pp sole use*
• Royal Panorama Suite from $15,490 $12,990 pp twin share / $29,980 $27,480 pp sole use*

Super Earlybird Offer - $2,900pp Economy Flight Credit*

• Standard Suite from $8,795 pp twin share / $16,590 pp sole use*
• Balcony Suite from $12,340 pp twin share / $23,680 pp sole use*
• Junior Balcony Suite from $12,995 pp twin share / $26,770 pp sole use*
• Royal Panorama Suite from $15,490 pp twin share / $27,480 pp sole use*

Other dates and pricing available. Call today and speak with one of our experienced Travel advisors to discuss this outstanding travel opportunity on 1300 414 198

* The above prices are based on 27 March 2027 departure, limited time offers, are correct at the time of publication, are subject to availability and may change at the time of booking.

Scenic Sapphire

This elegant Space-Ship is designed to provide a luxurious all-inclusive river cruising experience for a maximum of 167 guests. Offering a relaxed and intimate atmosphere, the ship features spacious suites, many with Scenic's signature private Sun Lounges. Guests can enjoy up to five dining experiences, premium beverages, personalised butler service for every suite, and wellness facilities including a fitness centre and Salt Therapy Lounge.

Standard Suite: Located on the Jewel Deck, these suites feature butler service, early morning tea and coffee service and a picture window to gaze out at the passing views.

Balcony Suite: Enhancing your overall river cruising experience, these spacious suites are located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks and offer a window to the world with your Scenic Sun Lounge.

Junior Suite: These spacious suites offer the benefits of the Diamond Deck, including personalised butler service and complimentary daily canapes and offer additional space to relax.

Royal Panorama Suite: The largest suites on the Scenic Space-Ships, these indulgent sanctuaries are located on the Diamond Deck and include an impressive Scenic Sun Lounge, separate lounge area and oversized bathroom.

What destinations will I visit on the Signature Southern France Cruise?

This luxury river journey explores the beauty of Southern France, including charming towns and cities along the Rhône and Saône Rivers such as Lyon, Avignon, Arles, Vienne and the picturesque Rhône Valley.

What can I expect onboard the cruise?

Guests can enjoy a luxury river cruising experience with spacious accommodation, exceptional dining, included beverages, enriching excursions and personalised service throughout the journey.

Is this cruise suitable for travellers who enjoy food and wine experiences?

Absolutely. The itinerary showcases the flavours of Southern France, with opportunities to discover renowned wine regions, local cuisine and authentic French culinary traditions.

What type of accommodation is provided during the cruise?

Guests stay aboard a luxurious Scenic river ship, featuring elegantly designed suites, modern amenities and a range of onboard facilities for a comfortable journey.

What are the highlights of this cruise?

Highlights include exploring historic French villages, experiencing Provence’s charm, cruising through scenic waterways, and discovering the culture, cuisine and landscapes of Southern France.