8 Day AmaWaterways River Cruise from Paris to Arles 2026

Day 1 Paris

Arrive in Paris and settle into your cabin, where the city’s splendor will greet you.

Day 2 Les Andelys

Uncover the history of Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s cliffside stronghold, on a morning tour, hike there from the Seine for scenic views, or explore the charming town of Les Andelys on a guided bike tour, then relax on a scenic cruise along the meandering river.

Day 3 Le Havre

During your time in Le Havre, set out on an excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur, renowned for its picturesque harbor, and for being an inspirational site for Impressionist painters. During the afternoon, you can join a city tour of the UNESCO-designated Le Havre. Alternatively, you have the choice of a bike tour through Le Havre. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Le Havre

Experience Normandy with a visit to the American sector of the historic beaches, including Colleville-sur-Mer, Omaha Beach, and Arromanches or tour the British and Canadian sectors with stops at Pegasus Bridge and Beny-sur-Mer.Explore the Pays d’Auge region to sample cider and Calvados, or discover Caudebec-en-Caux and the interactive exhibits at the Seine Museum.

Day 5 Rouen

Spend the morning in medieval Rouen. Take a walking tour of the Medieval Quarter and Joan of Arc’s square, savor regional delights on a “Tastes of Normandy” tour, or enjoy a guided bike ride, followed by a visit to the 16th-century Bonnemare Castle.

Day 6 Vernon

Cruise through Vernon before choosing from several activities in the French countryside. Visit Claude Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny, explore the opulent 18th-century Château de Bizy, or enjoy a guided bike tour through the scenic French countryside.

Day 7 Paris

Visit Auberge Ravoux in Auvers-sur-Oise, where Vincent van Gogh spent his final 70 days painting over 70 works, or admire the exquisite Château de Malmaison with its famed gardens. Or, stay in Paris for a guided bike tour and panoramic sightseeing, including the Latin Quarter and Luxembourg Gardens.

Day 8 Dijon

Bid farewell to Paris and board your ship in Dijon, where your luggage awaits in your stateroom. Enjoy lunch on board and spend the afternoon exploring the charming city at your own pace.

Day 9 Chalon-sur-Saône

Uncover the medieval charm of Chalon‑Sur‑Saône on a historic city tour, or visit Beaune to stroll its cobblestone streets and admire the mosaic‑tiled roof of the 15th‑century Hôtel‑Dieu. Later, enjoy a scenic cruise to Tournus, savor the region’s Mâconnais wines, or take an exhilarating guided bike ride from Chalon‑Sur‑Saône to Tournus.

Day 10 Tournus

Explore the charming cities of Tournus and Mâcon. Take a guided tour of the Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert, visit the moated Château de Cormatin with its ornate apartments and gardens, or stroll through the medieval village of Brancion. Return to the ship for a scenic cruise to Mâcon, or enjoy a guided bike tour or wine tasting before rejoining the voyage.

Day 11 Macon

Enjoy a day in Mâcon, the “South Burgundy City,” on a guided tour exploring its vineyards, museums, and historic sites, or venture to Cluny to admire the captivating Romanesque architecture of its once-mighty abbey. Return to the ship and relax on the Sun Deck with a light lunch, or enjoy a tasting of Beaujolais wines as you sail toward Villefranche-sur-Saône.

Day 12 Lyon

Begin your journey through Lyon on Fourvière Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the 19th-century Notre-Dame de Fourvière Basilica. Wander through the city’s old town and St. Jean district to see the city’s unique covered “traboules.” More adventurous passengers can join a guided bike tour or hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet. Finish the day by indulging your palate on a Vieux Lyon tasting tour of local culinary delights.

Day 13 Viviers

Enjoy a leisurely morning coffee from your balcony or the Sun Deck as you cruise to Viviers, a charming medieval city with 16th- and 18th-century monuments. Choose to pedal through the bicycle-friendly streets, visit the hilltop village of Grignan and hunt for prized “Black Diamond” truffles, or hike for stunning views. In the evening, join a guided stroll through Viviers with costumed interpreters reenacting the city’s rich history and legends.

Day 14 Avignon

Discover the “City of Popes” on a guided walking tour of Avignon, exploring the Palais des Papes and medieval city walls, or sample regional specialties like macarons, cheese, wine, and tapenade. In Arles, admire the Romanesque cathedral and amphitheater on a walking or bike tour, explore Van Gogh’s legacy at the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, or enjoy a leisurely wellness-focused ride through the town.

Day 15 Arles

Begin your journey home