Visiting The South Of France: Avignon To Lyon – Viking Cruises

My Viking River Cruise from Avignon to Lyon offered a voyage of discovery through charming destinations and hidden gems in the French countryside. Avignon, the heart of the South of France, was our first stop. The Palace of the Popes, a medieval fortress, served as the residence of the papacy in the 14th century and was breathtaking. The city’s winding streets and beautiful architecture added to its charm.

Next on our itinerary was Viviers, a picturesque town nestled in the mountains. Its ancient buildings and surrounding vineyards offered a glimpse into France’s rural past. We visited the stunning Cathedral of Saint Vincent, a beautiful Romanesque church that dates back to the 11th century.

Tournon, a secluded town with a rich history and stunning natural beauty, was our next stop. Here, I enjoyed a leisurely walk along the riverside promenade and visited the impressive Castle-Museum of Tournon, a medieval fortress that now houses a fascinating collection of art and artifacts.

Arles, a charming town with well-preserved Roman ruins, was another highlight of the journey. The town’s vibrant colors and rich history made it a fascinating place to explore, and the local market was a delightful spot to sample the region’s fresh produce and spices.

Our final stop before reaching Lyon was Vienne, where I visited the stunning Temple of Augustus and Livia, a beautifully preserved Roman temple that dates back to the 1st century AD. The town’s ancient Roman amphitheater, which once held up to 13,000 spectators and is still used for concerts and other events today, was also worth exploring.

During my Viking River Cruise, I was impressed with the comfortable and well-appointed staterooms. The rooms were spacious and featured large windows that provided stunning views of the passing scenery. I appreciated the thoughtful design of the room, which included ample storage space to keep my belongings organized and out of the way. The bedding was cozy and luxurious, and I slept soundly each night. In addition, the room had modern amenities such as USB ports and flat-screen televisions that made it easy to stay connected and entertained. Overall, the state room was a comfortable and welcoming retreat after a day of exploring the beautiful destinations along the Rhône River.

From Avignon to Lyon, I had the opportunity to explore the ship’s beautiful public spaces, each offering a unique and comfortable setting for relaxation and entertainment. The ship’s main dining room, The Restaurant, featured expertly crafted menus showcasing the very best of French cuisine. I also enjoyed meals at the Aquavit Buffet and the open-air Aquavit Terrace, which offered stunning views of the passing scenery. The chefs used only the freshest ingredients to create each meal, and the wine pairings perfectly complemented the flavors of the dishes.

The ship’s library provided a quiet retreat for reading and relaxing, while the Viking Lounge was a popular spot for socializing and entertainment, featuring live music and dancing. The Observation Lounge, with its cozy seating and well-stocked bar, was the perfect place to unwind and take in the passing scenery.

But it was the exceptional service of the Viking crew that truly made the journey unforgettable. From the warm and welcoming greeting upon our arrival to the attentive service throughout the journey, every member of the crew went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and well taken care of. It was truly amazing how the crew remembered each passenger’s name from the moment the guest arrived.

In Lyon, I decided to extend my stay and explore this wonderful and magical city further. Known as the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is a food lover’s paradise, with countless Michelin-starred restaurants and local bistros serving up delicious cuisine. I enjoyed wandering the city’s charming streets, admiring the beautiful architecture and colorful murals that adorn the walls. One of the highlights of my stay in Lyon was visiting the famous Les Halles de Lyon, a bustling indoor market filled with stalls selling fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local specialties. I indulged in some of the region’s famous sausages, cheeses, and wines, and even took a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Lyonnaise dishes. I also visited the stunning Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a beautiful church that sits atop a hill overlooking the city. The panoramic views from the church were breathtaking, and I enjoyed taking in the city’s skyline and the surrounding mountains.

As my journey came to an end, I reflected on the unforgettable experiences I had on my Viking River Cruise. From the stunning destinations and hidden gems, we visited to the luxurious amenities and exceptional service of the ship, every aspect of the journey exceeded my expectations. And Lyon, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, was the perfect ending to a perfect trip.

A Viking River Cruise from Avignon to Lyon is a truly unforgettable experience that offers a perfect blend of luxury, relaxation, and exploration. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or simply looking to unwind and take in the stunning scenery of the Rhône River, this journey has something for everyone. I highly recommend Viking and this voyage to anyone looking for an exceptional travel experience that will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.