7-night Europe cruise: Arles to Lyon on Scenic Sapphire
The Idyllic Rhône from Arles is a 7-night Europe cruise aboard Scenic Sapphire, operated by Scenic River Cruises. Departing Arles on August 29, 2026 and arriving in Lyon on September 5, 2026, the voyage visits 6 ports including Avignon, Viviers, Vienne, France. Fares start from $12,916 per person.
Fixed editorial images from the places on this itinerary. They stay stable each time you return to this sailing.
Arles
If you have a love of Roman history, then Arles should be on the visiting itinerary. Situated on the Rhône River, in Southern France, the city was at one time a provincial capital of ancient Rome. The Roman influence can still be seen to this day in its historical sites. Its semi-circular Roman theatre still stands on a hilltop. Its Amphitheatre, built between the 1st and 2nd century, and capable of accommodating over 20,000 spectators, is used today for plays, festivals and bullfights. While the Alyscamps, or Roman Necropolis, built by the Romans and Greeks, is the most famous burial site in the western world. Another site worthy of mention is the Constantine Thermes, built between the 3rd and 4th centuries during the reign of the Emperor Constantine. Arles is also said to have influenced Van Gough’s paintings, and the contemporary art on show at the Vincent Van Gough Foundation.
Avignon
As you stroll the squares and cobbled streets of Avignon, in south-eastern France, you can’t help but be impressed by the architectural influence of 400 years of papal rule. From its 800 year old ramparts that tower majestically over the Rhône River, to the UNESCO listed Pope’s Palace and city centre, the area is steeped in cultural history. However, to contrast the spectacular ancient architecture, the city has a young energetic population. With many attending the University of Avignon, they add a dynamic energy to the many cafes and bistros dotted around the town squares and alleyways. Visit the three magnificent Gothic churches, the old papal mint, Collection Lambert, and the Renaissance artwork in the Musee du Petit. Wander through the Rochers des Doms gardens. Take in the spectacular view across the city skyline, and relax with a liqueur coffee and pastries, in one of the many pavement cafes.
Vienne, France
Vienne is a commune in southeastern France, located 35 kilometres south of Lyon, at the confluence of the Gère river and the Rhône. Today, it is only the fourth largest city in the Isère department, of which it is a subprefecture, but was a major center of the Roman Empire.
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Sailing the beautiful waterways of France and rebuilt for the 2017 season with brand new features such as Scenic Culinaire and two new one-bedroom Royal Owner's Suites.
Every Scenic French river cruise begins aboard one of the company’s custom-built Space-Ships the Scenic Sapphire or Diamond, so named for their spacious guest cabins, dining, and entertaining areas. Each of these four-deck Scenic Space-Ships includes numerous dining and sightseeing areas, as well as a lounge and bar area that offers panoramic views. Additionally, guests can soak up the rays at the top-deck swimming pool or retreat to the wellness center, which is equipped with a fitness area, beauty salon, and massage rooms. These ships are also noteworthy for their luxury suites, which are outfitted with sun lounges, 32-inch high-definition TVs, and complimentary wireless internet access.
Bolstering our exquisite French fleet upon their re-launch, Scenic Sapphire and Diamond will be completely rebuilt to reflect the same level of luxury offered by our newest Scenic Space-Ships. We’ve considered everything when redesigning these much-loved vessels, seeking out the very finest materials and most innovative technologies to ensure these Space-Ships afford the very best travel experience on the majestic waterways of France.
One of the main highlights of these updated vessels however, is the all-new one-bedroom Royal Owner’s Suites. A first for the Scenic Space-Ship fleet, these huge 47 square meter suites are the biggest ever offered on European waters, and boast a vast living space, perfectly proportioned bedroom, en-suite bathroom and full-length balcony — not to mention all of the exquisite luxuries for which we are so regularly applauded.
Complete with all of the opulent finishing touches for which Scenic is universally celebrated, Scenic Sapphire and Diamond will be transformed upon emerging from the shipyard ahead of the 2017 season. As well as opulent design touches, each vessel will also receive a host of new features and amenities, including a vitality pool, gym, spa and, for the first time ever, a private cooking area where guests can participate in our new cookery courses, Scenic Culinaire.
Couple these sumptuous design changes with our time-tested and truly exceptional service, and a river cruise aboard Scenic Sapphire and Diamond promises the journey of a lifetime. The vessels will cruise a selection of French rivers in 2017, including the Seine, Rhône and Garonne, transporting guests in complete comfort and elegance on these enchanting waterways.
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