Fall Festival: Local History and Traditions on the Rhône River

The capital of the Rhone-Alpes region, Lyon is the second-largest metropolitan area in France. But this historic city beats Paris as a cruising destination, thanks to its prime location at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers. The original medieval town, Vieux Lyon, was founded in 43 B.C. by a lieutenant of Julius Caesar on the hilltop district known today as Fourviere. Ruins of this Roman settlement are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with concerts and operas still held at the (partially intact) ancient amphitheater every summer. In the Middle Ages, the city expanded to the east bank of the Saone, and it has belonged to multiple provinces over time. It wasn't until the Renaissance era that Lyon truly flourished, largely in the industries of silk-weaving and printing. Almost 500 years later, it still holds its status as a leading world center for textile design. Modern Lyon is most famous for its excellent gastronomic scene, as well as many striking buildings, such as the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere, which looms over the city; La Tour Metallique, sometimes called the Eiffel Tower's "little sister"; and almost 100 walls painted with huge murals.

Anyone who visits Avignon will quickly see why it's such a raved-about port on Rhone River cruise itineraries. Nestled in the heart of France's Provence region, the small city is quaint and intimate, with a chic vibe. You'll find stone buildings with pastel-colored shutters, boutique shops and hotels, and lively little squares -- including Place de L'Horloge, a roughly 10-minute walk from the pier. It literally feels as if you've stepped foot inside a postcard from the South of France. Looks aside, the "City of Popes" is rich in Roman Catholic history. Between 1309 to 1377, popes lived in Avignon instead of Rome, due to unstable political conditions at the time. Avignon is home to the Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), the largest gothic palace in the world, and adjacent Notre-Dame des Doms Cathedral (known as the Avignon Cathedral). Avignon is also conveniently located about an hour outside Marseille (which has the nearest, major international airport). This makes it a prime embarkation and disembarkation point for a number of river cruise lines. Heading there in July? Try to plan for a glimpse of the annual Festival d'Avignon, one of the biggest performing arts festivals in the world.

Viviers is a charming medieval town located in the Ardèche department of south-eastern France. Known for its rich historical heritage, Viviers boasts well-preserved narrow streets, a stunning Romanesque cathedral, and picturesque views of the Rhône River. Visitors can explore its architectural gems and immerse themselves in its timeless ambiance.

The capital of the Rhone-Alpes region, Lyon is the second-largest metropolitan area in France. But this historic city beats Paris as a cruising destination, thanks to its prime location at the confluence of the Rhone and Saone rivers. The original medieval town, Vieux Lyon, was founded in 43 B.C. by a lieutenant of Julius Caesar on the hilltop district known today as Fourviere. Ruins of this Roman settlement are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with concerts and operas still held at the (partially intact) ancient amphitheater every summer. In the Middle Ages, the city expanded to the east bank of the Saone, and it has belonged to multiple provinces over time. It wasn't until the Renaissance era that Lyon truly flourished, largely in the industries of silk-weaving and printing. Almost 500 years later, it still holds its status as a leading world center for textile design. Modern Lyon is most famous for its excellent gastronomic scene, as well as many striking buildings, such as the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourviere, which looms over the city; La Tour Metallique, sometimes called the Eiffel Tower's "little sister"; and almost 100 walls painted with huge murals.