Riverside: Mini Cruises between Rhône and Danube
Riverside has designed tourist itineraries to offer those with limited time the opportunity to enjoy a vacation filled with culture and relaxation. Two alternatives have been planned, featuring exclusive and inclusive stops and excursions suitable for every type of tourist: the first, Rhône Rhapsody, explores all of France, while the second, Pearls of the Danube Eastbound, touches Germany and Austria.
The Riverside Rhône Rhapsody cruise offers a 4-day journey discovering France’s most fascinating cities. Starting from Lyon, known for its secret passages and gastronomic culture, the cruise includes stops in Viviers, Tarascon, Arles, and Avignon. Special attractions include Lyon’s historic center, the medieval castle of Tarascon, and evening drinks on the Sun Deck. The cruise also offers customizable options, such as vineyard visits, truffle hunting and tastings, or exploring the artistic wonders of Van Gogh and Cezanne.
1. Riverside minicrociere, Rhone Rapsody’s itinerary
Boarding the luxurious Riverside Ravel in Lyon, famous for its secret passages and vibrant gastronomic culture, guests can embark on a discovery of 2,000 years of history by visiting the Museum of Fine Arts, the Basilica of Notre-Dame, the La Croix-Rousse district, and the Les Halles de Lyon market by Paul Bocuse. A guided city tour is also available, showcasing Roman ruins and the famous “brioche pralinée.”
Viviers, the smallest town in France, has preserved its medieval structure thanks to Bishop Charles de la Font de Savine. Guests can explore the city on foot, visit the Saint-Vincent Cathedral, and optionally enjoy a short concert. There’s also the option of a truffle tour at a local farm or a more active excursion in the Ardèche Gorge Nature Reserve.
2. Riverside minicrociere, Lyon, France
3. Riverside minicrociere, Viviers, France
On the third day, the itinerary includes visits to Tarascon and Arles. Located in the Provence region, Tarascon is rich in history. The tour begins with a visit to the magnificent Tarascon Fortress, built in the 15th century, which served as both defense and residence for King René. An expert guide will lead travelers through the medieval fortress and the city center, illustrating the history and architecture of Tarascon. Other options include a tour of the old town with its historic center, the Museum of Provençal Textiles, and the Gothic Collegiate Church of Sainte-Marthe, while discovering local legends during the “Fête de la Tarasque.”
The same day, the ship will dock in Arles, a gem of Provence surrounded by Europe’s most beautiful natural parks. This city symbolizes significant art and a contemporary testimony of a tumultuous history, from the amphitheater to the patrician houses. Arles, beloved by Vincent van Gogh, was honored in about 200 paintings, which can be visited on a guided walking tour starting from the city center. Other customized excursions include a tour of Cezanne’s hometown amidst the splendor of wonderful monuments, including a taste of local cuisine, or a visit to the UNESCO biosphere reserve Camargue, a traditional ranch, and the village of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
The last day includes docking in Avignon, concluding the cruise with a sightseeing tour of the splendid city that curves over the Rhône River. The Pont Saint-Bénézet, one of the main tourist attractions, gained international fame thanks to the song “Sur le pont d’Avignon.” Crossing it leads directly to the Papal Palace, one of the largest and most important medieval buildings in Europe.
6. Riverside minicrociere, Tarascon’s Castle, Tarascon, France
7. Riverside minicrociere, Tarascon, France
8. Riverside minicrociere, Arles, France
9. Riverside minicrociere, Arles, France
10. Riverside minicrociere, Camargue, Arles, France
11. Riverside minicrociere, Pont du Garde, Avignon, France
The Pearls of the Danube Eastbound cruise, on the other hand, offers the opportunity to explore two other major regions of Europe: Germany and Austria. An unforgettable four-day excursion along the Danube provides a unique opportunity to explore some of Europe’s most picturesque destinations. The Riverside Mozart sets sail from Passau, where the rivers Danube, Inn, and Ilz meet. Guests can visit the historic Veste Oberhaus and the majestic cathedral with its large, now-famous organ.
12. Riverside minicrociere, Pearls of Danube Eastbound’s itinerary
The second day includes a stop in Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, known for its baroque square, historic center, fantastic shops, Schloss Museum, and Mariendom, a splendid Catholic cathedral that can accommodate 20,000 faithful.
The same day continues with a visit to the town of Grein, famous for its castle and the historic theater built in 1791. Excursions in Grein include a leisurely walk through the picturesque village and a visit to Austria’s oldest theater, equipped with a prison from which prisoners could watch performances. A panoramic bike tour offers the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas, with the option to ride to the Strudengauklamm Gorge for spectacular panoramic views. Guests can also visit the majestic Greinburg Castle, with its history dating back to 1488, including the Knights’ Hall and an evocative chapel.
13. Riverside minicrociere, Grein Historical Municipal theater, Grein, Austria
14. Riverside minicrociere, Grein’s natural charms by bike, Grein, Austria
15. Riverside minicrociere, Greinburg castle, Grein, Austria
The third day is dedicated to visiting the amazing capital, Vienna, where one can follow in the footsteps of Mozart and Strauss, visit museums and palaces, enjoy music performances at the famous Opera House, and watch the training of Lipizzaner horses at the Spanish Riding School. The last day, disembarking in the capital, includes a panoramic city tour along the Ringstrasse, passing historic monuments and iconic palaces. Fascinating stories about illustrious figures such as Strauss, Schubert, Klimt, Freud, Sissi, and Marie Antoinette are shared. The tour continues to the Hofburg Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, offering the opportunity to explore, shop, or relax in a café. Another option is exploring the baroque wonders of Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens, including the Blue Chinese Salon and the Ceremonial Hall, immersing oneself in the historical world of Maria Theresa and Franz Joseph.
16. Riverside minicrociere, Vienna, Austria
17. Riverside minicrociere, Imperial Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria
18. Riverside minicrociere, Danube river
These two itineraries by Riverside condense a journey rich in history, culture, and beauty along the Rhône and the Danube, ideal for those who wish to intensely experience every moment of adventure in a short time. Two exceptional four-day mini cruises combining culture, history, and gastronomic pleasures, making each stop unique and unforgettable.
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