Explore and book Viking River Cruises 7 Night Lyon & Provence on the Viking Buri departing from Lyon, France on Nov 16, 2025 and ending in Avignon, France on Nov 23, 2025 Sail to Lyon, France, Vienne, France, Tournon, France, Viviers, France, Avignon, France

Lyon, France

Lyon straddles the Rh&ocirc;ne and Sa&ocirc;ne Rivers. After Paris, it is considered the country&rsquo;s most significant cultural center. Amid a cityscape of red-roofed buildings, tree-lined boulevards and riverside promenades, the cobblestone streets of

Lyon, France, is a vibrant city renowned for its rich history and culinary excellence. Explore the charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its cobblestone streets and Renaissance architecture. Discover the gastronomic delights in the famous Les Halles de Lyon-Paul Bocuse market. A cruise stop in Lyon offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and gourmet experiences.

Situated between France&rsquo;s Burgundy and Beaujolais regions, Vienne is the gateway to Lyon&rsquo;s countryside. It is one of the oldest towns in France, with a history that can be traced through its architecture. Among its Roman remains and artifacts,

Vienne, France

Vienne, located in the Rhône-Alpes region, is steeped in Roman history and architectural marvels. Visitors can explore the Temple of Augustus and Livia and the Roman Theatre, which hosts an annual jazz festival. The town's vibrant markets and riverside cafes provide a perfect setting for leisurely afternoons. Vienne’s blend of historical richness and cultural vibrancy makes it a captivating stop for any traveler.

The lure of fine cuisine, charming villages and breathtaking vistas is never-ending along the Rh&ocirc;ne River. Journey along this graceful waterway, meandering past vine-clad banks, and incredibly preserved echoes of medieval times and the days of the R

Tournon lies secluded between the river and the vineyard-blanketed granite slopes that nurture fine vintages. An ancient castle, built snugly into a rock, overlooks the riverside setting. A settlement has perched on this hill since Celtic times, but the s

Tournon, France

Nestled along the Rhône River, Tournon is a scenic gem in France’s Ardèche region. Visit the historic Château-Musée, perched above the town, for stunning views and fascinating exhibits. Wander through its charming streets, stopping at local vineyards to sample the renowned Hermitage wines. The serene riverside promenades invite leisurely strolls, offering a peaceful retreat.

The sleepy town of Viviers was founded during the 5th century. This former Roman settlement became a bishop&rsquo;s seat, and conflicts during ensuing centuries required the town to be fortified. With the Renaissance came a more stable period of wealth th

Viviers, France

Viviers, perched on the banks of the Rhône River, is a medieval town with a rich architectural heritage. Its narrow, winding streets lead to the stunning Viviers Cathedral and the Bishop’s Palace, offering glimpses into its historic past. The town’s well-preserved buildings and quaint charm provide a peaceful retreat. Explore Viviers on foot to fully appreciate its serene ambiance and historical significance.

In the last days of the Roman Empire, Arles was the capital of Roman Gaul and boasts many Gallo-Roman ruins including Les Ar&egrave;nes; this ancient amphitheater seats 20,000 and is still used today for bullfights and plays. The town has an energetic fee

Avignon&rsquo;s narrow streets are lined with churches and remarkable medieval buildings. This &ldquo;City of Popes&rdquo; was the papal seat for 70 years during the 14th century after the sitting pope abandoned Rome and fled here. The massive church-fort

Avignon, France

Avignon, located in the heart of Provence, is famous for its stunning medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The UNESCO-listed Palais des Papes, a massive Gothic palace, stands as a testament to the city's historical significance. Wander through the ancient streets, enjoy the bustling markets, and visit the iconic Pont d'Avignon. This historic city combines the charm of its past with the lively ambiance of its present, making it a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

7 Night Lyon & Provence

Mediterranean

Europe

The Aquavit Terrace, revolutionary in its design, provides the ultimate al fresco dining experience along the river, blending indoor and outdoor settings seamlessly. Engage with fellow travelers over breakfast and lunch as you take in the tranquil beauty of the river, creating memorable moments in this inviting and relaxing space.


Aquavit Terrace

Discover a haven of literary delight in the onboard Library, where a thoughtfully curated selection of titles beckons the curious traveler. Choose a volume, find your cozy nook, and let the pages transport you as the world glides by.


Library

The Sun Deck features a shaded sitting area and an organic herb garden, offering a perfect spot for relaxation and taking in the views. Enjoy the fresh air while lounging under the umbrellas or exploring the lush greenery of the herb garden.


Sun Deck

Whether you need a last-minute gift or an essential item forgotten at home, the onboard shop offers everything from essential travel items to exclusive Viking memorabilia like books, apparel, and jewelry. It's the perfect spot to pick up souvenirs or essentials, ensuring your voyage remains comfortable and memorable.


Shop

Embark on a leisurely stroll around the walking track, soaking up the sun and enjoying panoramic views of the ocean and landscapes. This facility is perfect for guests who want to stay active while indulging in the beauty of their surroundings. Ideal for early morning jogs or evening walks under the stars.


Walking Track

Challenge your putting skills on the open-air mini golf course atop the sun deck. With each stroke, enjoy the crisp river breeze and the captivating historical townscapes that border the river. This fun and accessible activity is a great way to enjoy some leisure time while sailing.


Mini Golf

Dive deep into the art, culture, and history of your destinations with the expert-led lectures and port talks, providing insights into the landmarks and heritage of each place. These sessions are perfect for enriching your understanding and preparing for your adventures ashore.


Guest Lectures & Port Talks

Witness the artistry of local crafts and culinary traditions with demonstrations by artisans and chefs, from glassblowing to making Austrian apple strudel. These sessions offer a hands-on glimpse into the region's heritage and flavors.


Craft & Cooking Demonstrations

The Lounge Bar combines crafted cocktails with a serene riverside backdrop, inviting guests to enjoy attentive wait service from lunch through the late evening. Here, conversation flows as smoothly as the river outside, creating an effortlessly elegant atmosphere.


Lounge Bar

The Restaurant presents a feast for the senses, serving multicourse meals that celebrate regional flavors alongside timeless classics. Dine in upscale elegance as panoramic windows frame ever-changing vistas, ensuring every meal is accompanied by a view.


The Restaurant

Nestled in the Lounge, guests find solace on plush seating, with live music providing a serene soundtrack to the stunning river vistas framed by expansive windows. It's an intimate retreat for relaxation and mingling as the river's grace glides by.


Viking Lounge

Experience the spirit of each region through the Destination Performances, featuring local cultural arts like Portuguese fado and Viennese opera. These performances are a captivating blend of entertainment and cultural immersion.


Destination Performances

Enjoy the soothing sounds of classical and regional music performed by talented musicians, from local ensembles to renowned choirs. This auditory journey is designed to enrich your mind and complement the scenic beauty of your travels.


Classical & Regional Musicians

Viking Buri offers a serene river cruise experience with its straightforward, all-inclusive setup that promotes a carefree atmosphere ideal for relaxation and enjoying the scenic views of Provence and Burgundy. The ship features a cozy yet contemporary design, with public spaces like the Aquavit Terrace that blend indoor comfort with outdoor dining experiences, complemented by light-filled interiors and panoramic views. Eco-friendly practices are integral to Viking Buri, evidenced by its hybrid engines and solar panels that enhance both environmental sustainability and passenger comfort.

The Sun Deck offers a 360-degree panorama of the surrounding beauty, complete with a shaded sitting area for comfort. Engage with nature at the organic herb garden, embrace sustainability with the solar panels, or stay active with amenities like a mini golf and walking track.


Sun Deck 

Shop 

Mini Golf 

Viking River Cruises

Lyon & Provence

France's Finest

Viking Buri

Visit the monumental palace, once the seat of seven popes, and explore its medieval city. Avignon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known as the “City of Popes” because the papacy was relocated here from Rome, amid great controversy, from 1309 to 1377. With a local guide, follow the historic center of narrow streets to the Place de l’Horloge, the city’s central square, a scene of balconies, elegant facades and shading trees. Continue to the renowned Palace of the Popes for a guided tour. This fortress-church—the Middle Ages’ largest Gothic building—is gigantic, dwarfing even the neighboring cathedral. After, continue to the Market Hall, an iconic indoor market with a vertical garden, cafés and stalls selling local produce, meats and cheeses. Enjoy free time to browse the offerings, before returning to your ship.

Learn about the legendary lavender that graces the fields of Provence each summer on this fragrant tour. Drive into the beautiful countryside of Provence and stop in the hamlet of Sault to visit a lavender farm. After a tour and lunch in the village, enjoy a leisurely drive past Ventoux villages and stunning lavender fields. Pause in St. Christol and Simiane la Rotonde to explore and to admire sweeping views of surrounding vineyards and fields. Then, visit Coustellet and the Lavender Museum, founded by a family that runs a vast lavender farm in a nearby village. Dedicated to the beautiful flower’s cultivation, distillation and legend, this unique museum features a fascinating collection of objects and exhibits that chronicle its use by perfume makers and by civilizations dating back to ancient Rome. Note: This seasonal tour is typically offered from mid-June to mid-July.

Explore the town named for its “Pope’s New Castle,” its centuries-old vineyard and its superb wines. Constructed in 1316 by Pope John XXII as a summer residence for the Avignon Popes, Châteauneuf-du-Pape and the town that grew up around it is one of the world’s most celebrated wine-producing regions. Begin your excursion with a stop at a local vineyard for a wine tasting. Then, continue to the hilltop ruins of the castle, where you can take in sweeping views of the Rhône Valley and Avignon. Stroll or drive down to the charming village it overlooks to meet the vintners whose families have lovingly cultivated these vineyards for generations. They invite you to browse their winery cellars and learn the delicate blending process behind their extraordinary wine. Toast your experience by sampling the distinctive bouquet and finish of these very special wines in the place of their birth.

See the magnificent three-tiered structure built without mortar by Romans 2,000 years ago. One of the most ambitious engineering projects of its time, the Pont du Gard aqueduct carried water to the Roman outpost of Nimes from the springs of Uzes, 31 miles away. It stands today as the greatest legacy of Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa, son-in-law of Augustus. Some of its stones weigh six tons and were lifted as high as 160 feet. You will journey to the aqueduct, which straddles the wooded banks of the Gardon River. Spend time at the site’s museum, where you can observe the marriage of modern and ancient at fascinating, interactive exhibits. Then marvel at the huge structure that channeled 44 million gallons of water each day over a tiny gradient of 25 inches per mile for 31 miles. For form and function, it is surely one of the Roman Empire’s most breathtaking remains.

Admire the beauty of Avignon and learn more about the ecosystem of the Rhône River during a scenic canoe ride. Meet your knowledgeable local guide at the end of Allée Antoine Pinay on verdant Barthélasse Island, located between the two arms of the Rhône and the largest river island in France. Here, you will receive a short safety briefing before boarding your canoe and beginning your approximately five-mile paddle downstream. Immerse yourself in the tranquil surroundings as you leisurely navigate your way down the river. Your guide will point out the important historic sites of the “City of Popes,” as well as the local flora and fauna that inhabit the lower Rhône Valley. Pass underneath the famous Pont d’Avignon, a medieval bridge that is a symbol of the city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as you finish your tour. Afterward, return to your awaiting nearby ship on foot.

Enjoy a leisurely idyll in a charming riverside village. Viviers is a typical small town in southern France—sleepy and laid-back amid a beautiful mountain setting. To appreciate it to its fullest, join a local guide who knows the town intimately for a delightful stroll that brings out its peaceful ambience. Amble along its picturesque sycamore-lined avenue, linger for a spell in the Place de la Roubine and see the Maison des Chevaliers, or Knights’ House, a Renaissance treasure that stands as the oldest house in town. Along the way, you will also see the smallest cathedral in France, the 11th-century St. Vincent Cathedral, standing meditatively in the town square.

Take in the natural beauty and endless charms of France’s picturesque region shaped by the Ardèche River. Enjoy a scenic drive with your guide and learn about one of the region’s most renowned harvests: lavender. Stop at the Lavender Museum and see its distillery, where the essential oil is extracted from the flower. Feel free to peruse the botanical garden, collection room and distillation warehouse. Continue to the Ardèche Gorge, one of France’s most spectacular natural wonders. Stop to admire this deep ravine, known as the “Grand Canyon of Europe,” and see the magnificent Pont d’Arc, a massive natural bridge that spans almost 200 feet across the gorge. Later, during a home-hosted visit while in the picturesque medieval village of Viviers, enjoy a welcome drink and a brioche as you listen to stories from your hosts about local life. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

Traverse one of France’s most picturesque corners during a train excursion into the wilds of the Doux Valley. Meet your guide at the ship and transfer to the train station, where you will board the Train des Gorges, a meter-gauge steam train and engine listed as French historic monuments. Embark on a charming journey on board this nostalgic railway and head into the verdant Doux Valley, a conservation area where panoramic views appear around every turn. This untouched region is inaccessible by road, making it a pristine wilderness of unrivaled beauty and clean air. You will skirt along the Doux River, chugging through the serene countryside, heading into verdant valleys and past sylvan woodlands. After your scenic train ride, return to Tournon and journey back to your ship.

Explore the landscape, history and culture of the northern Rhône Valley wine country. Drive up to the Chapel of St. Christophe for an expansive view of the vineyards around the small town of Tain-l’Hermitage. According to legend, Knight Gaspard de Stérimberg built the small chapel in 1224, spending his remaining days as a hermit after returning from the Crusades. Walk through the vineyards that produce the world-famous Hermitage wine and learn about the history of local viticulture; this is the birthplace of syrah, one of the most popular grape varieties in the world. You will arrive at Tain-l’Hermitage and have the opportunity to taste the full-bodied red wines from the vineyards through which you just walked, accompanied by locally produced Valrhona chocolate. After, you will return to Tournon by crossing the pedestrian bridge built by Marc Séguin, the inventor of the suspension bridge.

See the magnificent highlights of this gastronomic and cultural center. You will begin with a drive to the Basilica of Notre Dame, at the top of Fourvière Hill. After exploring the interior of this spectacular church, enjoy sweeping views of the red roofs of Vieux Lyon (Old Lyon) and the narrow peninsula of land between the rivers comprising the atmospheric Presqu’île shopping district. Next, drive through town past the flamboyant Gothic St. Jean Cathedral and the Palace of Justice, stopping at the city’s famed Painted Houses, a breathtaking collection of outdoor murals depicting some 30 of the city’s famous figures. Then, continue with a walking tour along the cobblestone streets of Vieux Lyon, where the city’s famous traboules, unique hidden passageways made for busy merchants in medieval days, wend through buildings and courtyards. Later, you can shop for souvenirs, perhaps purchasing some of the fine silk for which Lyon is world famous.

Step back in time as you journey to the medieval stone village of Pérouges. Perched on a hill, this fortified town is seemingly carved from the earth upon a bedrock of boulders and stones and looks down upon the plain of the River Ain. Pérouges is a treasure of French heritage and culture, and the setting of films such as “The Three Musketeers.” Drive with your guide to this walled hilltop town and enjoy a walking tour along its cobblestone streets. As you explore, learn about the farmers and linen weavers in this 13th-century communal village that never knew the sway of a lord. See the 50-foot high tower, which was once the entrance of the old fortified castle, and enjoy free time to visit the local church. Complete your tour with a sample of the town’s beloved Galette Pérougienne, a delicious sweet pastry.

Discover the rich history that lies throughout Lyon’s charming Old Town, known as Vieux Lyon. Begin crossing the University Bridge and take a funicular ride up to Fourvière Hill for panoramic views of the city. View the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a late 19th-century church built on the site of an old Roman forum. Looming over the city, the four-tower structure is fondly referred to by locals as “the upside-down elephant”; from above, its shape and color resembles a giant beast on its back. Continue down the hill and stop to view the ruins of a 1st-century BC Roman theater, then explore the streets and shops of the Old Town at your leisure. Pause at a local café where you will enjoy a refreshing beverage before capping your tour with a visit to one of the last active weaving workshops in the Old Town for an insightful demonstration.

Discover why Beaujolais is one of France’s most beloved wine regions during this flavorful and scenic excursion. In full, it is larger than any single district of its neighbor, Burgundy. Vineyards stretch for four miles along the Saône, and the granite soils and warmer climate make it ideal for growing grapes that produce a light flavor. Join your guide for a scenic drive through the rolling hills of Beaujolais, where viticultural tradition runs deep. Then, stop at a local village and enjoy a stroll with your guide as you learn about the art of winemaking, perhaps hearing about the popular Beaujolais Nouveau and the coveted crus that are produced here. You will also stop at one of Beaujolais’s famous cellars to enjoy a tasting with a wine expert.

Sample Beaujolais’s most beloved culinary treasures during visits to a wine château and two working farms. With your guide, drive into the scenic countryside, learning about local agriculture along the way. At a picturesque château, visit a medieval wine cellar for a private wine tasting. Continue to a truffle farm, where you will enjoy a delicious lunch made with farm-fresh organic ingredients. Later, watch as the farmer’s dog hunts for truffles down in the soil. This highly prized fungus has been called the “diamond of the kitchen” for its rich, earthy flavor. Next, stop at a farm renowned for its production of chèvre, or goat cheese, a major export in France. Tour the farm with your host and learn how the cheese is made. Then sample both fresh and more mature cheeses, with white wine if you wish. After this full day of French gastronomy, return to your ship.

Treat your taste buds to the culinary delights of Lyon, once hailed as the “world capital of gastronomy.” Meet your guide and embark on an insightful walking tour to sample regional delicacies. Enjoy a taste of Brioche à la Praline—a pure butter brioche packed with pounded pralines. Visit a renowned chocolatier and sample a selection of handpicked delights. Learn all about cheese and taste a variety of local favorites as you discover more about the maturing process, accompanied by a glass of wine. And visit a traditional bistro, where your guide will regale you with cultural anecdotes of Lyon’s famed dedication to France’s culinary scene. Here, you will savor a tasty platter of cured meats, pâté croute, terrine and grattons, a local delicacy made from pork rind. After your tasting excursion, return to your awaiting ship.

Get to know Vienne and its rich Roman past during a leisurely walking tour. Meet your guide at the pier and set off to explore the city’s historic attractions. See the spectacular amphitheater built into the hillside, one of France’s best-preserved Roman theaters; it hosted up to 14,000 spectators during its heyday. View the Temple of Augustus & Livia, an incredibly preserved 1st-century structure that has been out of use only since the late 19th century. Then visit the enormous Gothic Cathedral of St. Maurice, built over almost 500 years. You may also spend time exploring an old Roman neighborhood, today’s Garden of Cybele, whose grounds are dotted with fascinating Roman remains. Afterward, enjoy free time to browse the shops or relax at a pavement café or salon de thé before returning to your ship.

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7 Night Lyon & Provence

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