This fantastic European river cruise holiday showcases France’s breathtaking views, amazing history, and legendary culture. Your adventure begins with two overnights on the French Riviera. A Master of Wine will accompany you on your cruise on the Rhône River with presentations, tastings, and wine pairings along the way. Board your Avalon Suite Ship in Arles, then sail to Avignon, and take a guided tour to Châteauneuf du Pape. Continue to delightful Viviers, and medieval Tournon. In Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, take a guided tour to Beaujolais and the following day to Chardonnay, where you will have the opportunity to taste local wines.

Take a high-speed train to Paris, and embark your second ship to begin your Seine River cruise into the picturesque Normandy region. In Vernon, choose between a guided visit of Claude Monet’s stunning gardens at Giverny or magnificent Bizy Castle. Continue to Les Andelys, home of dramatic Château Gaillard, then on to Caudebec, with your choice of an excursion to Normandy’s historic landing beaches or an interesting “Taste of Normandy” tour. Visit Joan of Arc’s historic Rouen and, in Conflans, choose between excursions to Vincent van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise or Napoleon and Josephine’s elegant Château de Malmaison. Return to Paris for guided sightseeing and take in the most famous sights of this magnificent city. Then, transfer to London for three exciting nights.

Your holiday in London includes guided sightseeing to, see the must-see sights—Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Piccadilly Circus, and more, including VIP access to St. Paul’s Cathedral. The perfect end to a remarkable river cruise holiday!

About Masters of Wine

Seldom do travellers get the chance to learn about wines from a master! Avalon invites you to sail in the company of a Master of Wine (MW) who shares elite experience, unsurpassed knowledge, and personal passion for wines on board your ship. With only 450 Masters of Wine in the world, Avalon Waterways is honoured to welcome a Master of Wine on board our Wine-Lovers cruises to share their rigorous training and prestigious expertise recognised globally across the wine industry. A truly exclusive experience for wine lovers!