River Cruises in Auxonne

Auxonne: Burgundy's Hidden Gem on the Saône

Set amid the sun-dappled vineyards and rolling countryside of eastern France, Auxonne is a historic riverside town that enchants every traveler who arrives by water. Nestled on the serene banks of the Saône River, this Burgundian gem offers the perfect gateway to a river cruise filled with medieval charm, culinary indulgence, and pastoral landscapes straight out of a painting.

From its elegant stone bridges and Napoleonic legacy to its leafy riverbanks and timber-framed facades, Auxonne invites you to slow down and immerse yourself in French culture. A Saône River cruise through Auxonne connects travelers to France's most alluring towns and traditions, weaving together a tapestry of wine country, Romanesque architecture, and historic port towns.

Whether savoring a glass of Pinot Noir on deck, wandering through ancient abbeys, or cycling along flower-lined towpaths, a cruise through Auxonne delivers discovery and serenity. This is more than a journey; it's an experience of Burgundy at its most intimate and authentic.

Cruising the Saône River

The Saône winds gently through eastern France, connecting the vineyards of Burgundy to the vibrant cityscapes of Lyon. It is a tranquil, slow-moving river ideal for relaxed exploration, flanked by pastoral scenery and quaint riverside villages. Cruising this waterway allows travelers to experience France’s heartland in its most poetic form.

Auxonne

Auxonne is a captivating starting point for exploration along the Saône. It is famed for its 15th-century château, a significant historical landmark where Napoleon Bonaparte studied. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along its well-preserved ramparts, delve into the local heritage by visiting its museums, or savor a relaxing coffee at a charming café along the harbor as the gentle rhythm of local life unfolds around them.

Chalon-sur-Saône

Chalon-sur-Saône exudes a lively atmosphere with its numerous art galleries showcasing diverse works, striking Romanesque architecture that speaks to centuries of history, and undeniable riverside charm that invites leisurely exploration. This makes it an ideal spot for those with a deep appreciation for culture and artistic expression.

Gray

Further north along the Saône's path lies Gray, a lesser-known treasure that boasts elegant Renaissance mansions reflecting a rich architectural heritage. It possesses the charm of a picturesque storybook village that enchants all who wander its streets; its peaceful marina also holds a special appeal for those who appreciate the unhurried pace of slow cruising and the serenity of riverside life.

Lyon

At the confluence where the Saône River meets the Rhône, Lyon dazzles visitors with its UNESCO-listed old town, a testament to its rich historical past, its fascinating silk-weaving history, which speaks to its industrial heritage, and its celebrated culinary scene, which attracts food enthusiasts from around the globe.

Mâcon

Renowned for its delightful white wines that embody the region's terroir, Mâcon invites cruise travelers to sample the local vintages and to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling vineyards that extend from the riverbanks, offering an authentic taste of the region's viticultural heritage.

Tournus

Home to the Abbey of Saint-Philibert, a remarkable architectural landmark, the town of Tournus blends its profound spiritual history, evident in its ancient stones, with a notable tradition of culinary excellence. All this is within a quaint and picturesque riverside setting that invites peaceful contemplation and gastronomic indulgence.

Trévoux

Serving as the former capital of the Dombes region, the town of Trévoux charms its visitors with its commanding hilltop views, which offer stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscape. Its well-preserved medieval heritage whispers tales of centuries past, and a distinct artistic flair permeates its cultural offerings and local atmosphere.

Villefranche-sur-Saône

Nestled within the renowned Beaujolais wine country, Villefranche-su-Saône boasts cobbled lanes that invite exploration and elegant Belle Époque architecture that reflects a bygone era. It is an ideal destination for delightful wine tasting excursions into the surrounding vineyards and for discovering unique artisanal products at its local markets.

The Allure of the Saône: Why It Stands Out

Scenery

The Saône River's characteristically gentle flow gracefully carries travelers through some of Burgundy's most breathtaking and scenic landscapes. These include expansive golden vineyards that stretch across rolling hills, tranquil lily-padded banks that exude natural beauty, and ethereal misty hills that deeply capture the very soul and essence of the French countryside.

Cuisine

From the classic French delicacies of escargot and flavorful coq au vin to the distinctive Dijon mustard and the richly flavored aged Epoisses cheese, the Saône River region stands as a culinary paradise for discerning palates; onboard meals frequently highlight these regional specialties, often paired with exquisite wines sourced from the renowned Mâconnais and Beaujolais wine regions.

Culture

Along the scenic banks of the Saône River, a rich tapestry of historical abbeys, fascinating ancient Roman ruins, and impressive medieval ramparts that stand as testaments to bygone eras line the waterway. Each stop along the journey provides a unique window into France's complex and layered history and its enduring artistic legacy.

Activities

Travelers can enjoy various activities, including leisurely bike tours through picturesque landscapes, visits to local vineyards to learn about winemaking, exciting truffle hunts in the region's rich soil, and informative guided town walks that reveal local history and culture; the overall pace of exploration is intentionally relaxed and unhurried, the very air is infused with a palpable sense of history, and the experiences create unforgettable and lasting memories for all who journey along the Saône.

Themed and Length-Based Itineraries

Short Cruises (3–5 Days)

Perfect for a long weekend escape, short itineraries often focus on the stretch between Auxonne and Chalon-sur-Saône. Highlights include medieval architecture, canal-side cycling, and wine tastings in small family-owned cellars.

Medium Cruises (6–9 Days)

These itineraries typically span from Gray to Lyon, combining sleepy villages with cultural gems like Tournus and Mâcon. Excursions to châteaux, abbeys, and local farms allow for a full immersion into Burgundian life.

Long Cruises (10+ Days)

Longer journeys explore the full Saône-Rhône axis, starting in Gray or Auxonne and continuing through Lyon into Provence. Expect deeper cultural programming, extended culinary events, and overnight moorings for evening explorations.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine Cruises: Visit Beaujolais, Mâconnais, and Côte Chalonnaise regions with guided tastings and vineyard walks.
• Art & History: Includes stops at Romanesque churches, Napoleonic landmarks, and art museums.
• Christmas Markets: Seasonal cruises from Chalon to Lyon with twinkling lights and mulled wine.
• Culinary Tours: Cooking classes onboard, market visits in Lyon, and chef-led tastings.

The Onboard Experience

Ship Sizes and Ambiance

River vessels navigating the Saône River accommodate approximately 20 to 80 guests, fostering a convivial and personalized atmosphere for all onboard. Travelers can expect a relaxed and welcoming ambiance where attentive crew members often become familiar with individual guest names. Each breathtaking sunset can be enjoyed from a prime, front-row vantage point directly from the ship's deck.

Cuisine and Wine

The curated menus reflect the best of the diverse French terroir, showcasing the esteemed Burgundy wines embodying the region's viticultural heritage, exquisite artisanal cheeses, and the freshest seasonal produce from local farms. Furthermore, expertly selected wine pairings and creatively themed dinners celebrating French culinary traditions stand out as delightful highlights of the cruise experience.

Excursions and Enrichment

The planned daily outings offer many experiences, including visiting local wine estates, exploring ancient Roman ruins, and charming heritage towns. Complementing these excursions, the onboard enrichment programs encompass a range of engaging activities, from insightful guest lectures presented by experts on historical topics to interactive culinary workshops that allow guests to delve into the art of French cooking.

Traveler Types

• Couples: Romantic setting, gourmet dining, and serene pace.
• Families: Educational stops and outdoor activities like biking and canoeing.
• Solo Travelers: Welcoming atmosphere and group excursions encourage camaraderie.
• Luxury Seekers: Upscale vessels with fine dining, spacious suites, and concierge-level service.

"To drift down the Saône through Auxonne is to step into a painting, where each bend in the river reveals a new brushstroke of beauty, history, and soul."

Auxonne is not just a destination—it's a portal to a more thoughtful, flavorful, and immersive way of travel. Whether you're here for the wines, the history, or the sheer beauty of the journey, cruising through Auxonne promises a story worth telling long after the trip ends.