France Cruises
Cruises in France offer a glimpse into the country’s rich culture, fascinating history, and breathtaking landscapes from a fresh perspective - its waterways.
Whether a leisurely trip down the Seine in France’s bustling capital entices you, or French Riviera cruises have caught your eye to experience the country’s gorgeous coastline, France’s diverse landscapes and many waterways offer ample opportunity to explore its unique regions and rivers.
The beauty of France cruise holidays lies in their detailed itineraries, which are carefully curated so that you can visit the country’s world-renowned attractions and destinations. Whether it’s gliding right beside the Eiffel Tower, stopping in charming medieval cities, or taking excursions to world-famous vineyards, cruises in France are made to be extraordinary and showcase the best that the country has to offer.
Not to mention that France cruises with multi-region itineraries mean you can embrace the diversity and uniqueness of the country’s different regions, all from the comforts of your cruise vessel. For the most adventurous and cultured of travellers, these multi-region France cruises are filled with locales and destinations with distinct charms, cultural experiences, and fascinating histories that enrich and enhance your travel experience in the country.
No matter what route you take onboard your cruise in France, you’ll be able to indulge in a ‘home away from home’ on the water, with luxurious accommodations and exemplary onboard amenities and services. From gourmet dining to fantastic entertainment, your journey on French waters will be one to remember.
Considering a cruise around France? Here at Cruising Holidays, you can savour the country’s renowned beauty from the comforts of exceptional cruise vessels with opulent accommodations, gourmet dining, and impeccable service. Browse our collection of France cruises today so we can make your dream getaway a reality.
France Cruises 2025/2026
Special OfferExclusive special early booking discounts on 2025 cruises - call us for details!
Arles, Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon-sur-Rhône, Lyon
Special OfferExclusive special early booking discounts on 2025 cruises - call us for details!
Port St. Louis (France), Arles - Avignon, Viviers, Tournon - Vienne, Lyon, Tournus - St. Jean de Losne
Special OfferSave up to £1000 Per Couple PLUS Free Flights on 2025 Cruises!
Amsterdam (The Netherlands) , Cologne (Germany) , Cruising the Rhine Gorge , Ludwigshafen , Strasbourg (France) , Breisach (Germany) , Basel (Switzerland)
Special OfferSave 50% - Now just £1361pp!
Paris (France) - Epernay, Epernay - Dormans, Dormans - Chateau Thierry, Chateau Thierry - Saint Jean les Deux Jumeaux, Saint Jean les Deux Jumeaux - Meaux - Lagny Sure
Special OfferSave 15% on all 2025 cruises!
Cologne (Germany), Koblenz, Speyer, Strasbourg (France), Mainz (Germany), Cologne
Special OfferSave up to 30% with flights included and Free Premium Drinks, plus save an additional £200 per person on selected 2025 Europe river cruises!
Amsterdam , Cologne, Koblenz, Ludwigshafen – Heidelberg, Kehl – Strasbourg, Breisach , Basel
Special OfferSave up to £1000 Per Couple PLUS Free Flights on 2025 Cruises!
Amsterdam (Holland), Cologne (Germany), Rhine Gorge – Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen – Heidelberg, Strasbourg (France), Breisach (Germany), Basel (Switzerland)
Special OfferExclusive Fly-Cruise Package Price from £2499pp
UK - Amsterdam (Holland), Amsterdam - Utrecht (Netherlands), Cologne (Germany), Cochem , Koblenz - Rudesheim , Mannheim - Speyer, Strasbourg (France), Basel (Switzerlan
Special OfferSave up to £1000 Per Couple PLUS Free Flights on 2025 Cruises!
Lyon, Vienne, Tournon-sur-Rhône - Viviers, Avignon, Arles
Special OfferExclusive fly-cruise package now from just £1553pp!
Bordeaux (France), Cussac-Fort-Medoc - Gironde Estuary, Royan - Rochefort - La Rochelle , Libourne, Bordeaux - Cadillac, Arcachon Bay, Bordeaux
Special OfferSave up to £1000 Per Couple PLUS Free Flights on 2025 Cruises!
Basel (Switzerland) , Breisach (Germany) , Strasbourg (France) , Ludwigshafen (Germany) - Rudesheim , Rudesheim - Rhine Gorge - Lahnstein , Cologne , Amsterdam (The Net
Special OfferSave up to £1000 Per Couple PLUS Free Flights on 2025 Cruises!
Chalon-sur-Saône (France) , Chalon-sur-Saône - Tournus , Tournus - Macon , Mâcon - Villefranche-sur-Saône - Lyon , Lyon - Vienne , Vienne - Valence , Avignon - Arles
Why Choose a Cruise in France
With cruises available all over the world, you may be asking yourself: why should I choose cruises in France for my future getaways?
For one, there’s a reason why France has developed a reputation as one of the most popular cruise destinations. There are no countries quite like it, with a unique culture and heritage that means the experiences, settlements, and landscapes in the country are unmatched.
Some of the world’s most iconic landmarks can be discovered during a France river cruise, including the world-renowned Eiffel Tower. Some of the most significant historical destinations can be visited during France cruises too, including the historic city of Lyon, which dates back 2,000 years.
Not to mention French cuisine, which is one of the most elegant in the world and is steeped in culinary tradition, with high-quality ingredients at the heart of its recipes. From coq au vin to boeuf bourguignon, let your taste buds be taken on a culinary journey during any river cruises in France.
And what’s a beautiful dish if it’s not paired with a delicious glass of wine? At least in France, sampling the crop that comes from the vineyards you cruise beside on several France cruises is one of the best parts of visiting the country. Picture raising a glass of French wine like Bordeaux and Merlot as you soak in sumptuous riverside views - truly spectacular.
Cruises in France allow you to embrace all of these experiences wholeheartedly, and indulge in the culture and beauty of the country without the need to worry about any of the logistics. Simply sit back and enjoy the views as everything is organised for you, from entertainment to your gourmet meals and exhilarating excursions.
Popular Cruise Regions in France
France is home to several popular cruise regions, each with their own distinct appeal and charm. We’ve shared some of the most desirable cruise destinations across the country for those seeking inspiration for where to visit during future France cruises:
French Riviera Cruises
The French Riviera has developed a reputation for its glamour. Now, it is a popular destination among seasoned travellers and A-listers alike, as well as those who simply want to experience the finer things in life during their cruise in France!
Home to beautiful seaside promenades and a Mediterranean charm, the French Riviera hosts world-famous events such as the Cannes Film Festival. French Riviera Cruises offer a unique insight into this region’s sophisticated vibe, with Cannes well known for its luxury shopping, while Monaco boasts stylish casinos and exemplary Michelin-starred restaurants.
Provence and the South of France Cruises
South of France cruises, including Provence, offer a glimpse into some of the country’s most sunkissed landscapes where vineyards flourish and historic towns have thrived for centuries.
Some of the most famous destinations during Provence and South of France cruises include beautiful Avignon, home to medieval architecture in abundance; bustling Marseille, home to brilliant local markets; and glamorous Saint-Tropez, with a vibrant nightlife and beach culture.
When exploring Provence during your France cruise, be sure to take an excursion to the lavender fields, which have covered the pages of travel magazines for decades. Or, visit world-famous vineyards to savour the unique flavours of the south, and embrace its ancient history by visiting Roman ruins and cultural landmarks.
Southwest and Bordeaux River Cruises
Bordeaux is the wine capital of France, home to world-famous vineyards and prestigious wineries that every oenophile will enjoy indulging in. The city’s neoclassical charm is tangled in its modernity, with a fantastic food scene worthy of discovering.
Other than Bordeaux river cruises, other Southwest cruise itineraries in France will lead you to fantastic neighbouring locations, like the historic towns of Saint-Émilion, drenched in medieval architecture and traditions.
Wine lovers must embark on tours of Bordeaux and the Southwest’s vineyards during a cruise, indulging in wine tasting and learning about the centuries-old wine-making traditions in the process.
Other France River Cruises
There are ample other France river cruises across the country to discover equally beautiful areas with their own distinct cultures and experiences.
Whether it’s gliding down the Seine River and having some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, or meandering along the Loire River beside lush vineyards, opportunities for river cruise itineraries and experiences are nearly endless in France.
Best Time to Take a Cruise in France
Each season offers its own opportunity to experience France in a different way. This means no two visits on a river cruise in France are the same, making your getaway all the more unique.
Spring is when France’s landscapes erupt in a sea of colour, with flowers in bloom and the weather being more than comfortable for exploring the country’s regions. This is a brilliant, and slightly quieter, time of the year to explore France and its regions, particularly if you’re hoping to get outdoors and connect with nature.
Summer is when the sun drenches the landscapes of France, offering the best weather of the year which showcases its regions in their best light. It’s the busiest period of the year for river cruising, however, this means many destinations are crowded with holidaymakers keen to experience the beauty of France just as much as you are.
Autumn is prime wine time in France when the harvest season is in full swing. If you’re an oenophile, visiting during autumn is a brilliant time to witness France’s wine regions as they come alive, and even visit wine festivals celebrating the crop of the year. Autumn is an off-peak season for river cruises in France, meaning you can often enjoy quieter destinations at this time of year.
While winter sees the coolest temperatures, it’s arguably the most atmospheric season as France transforms into a wintery and festive wonderland. France is home to some of Europe’s favourite and acclaimed Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, festive treats, and Christmassy experiences can be savoured for a memorable holiday experience.
What to Expect on a France Cruise
On board France cruises, you can expect exemplary dining with some of the best gourmet and regional delicacies, so you can taste France as you explore its landscapes. Reflecting France’s world-class gastronomic heritage, your experience in the country is enhanced by your cruise’s onboard culinary offerings, where casual bistros, fine dining restaurants, and wine tasting can be savoured each night.
Not to forget the amazing experiences that can be had onboard, when you’re not indulging in the land-based activities in your itinerary. Live entertainment and leisure options are available regularly, with performances including live music, and luxurious spa facilities and fitness centers allowing you to enhance your journey through France.
You’ll often have the opportunity to opt for excursions too, allowing you to fill your holiday with meaningful and memorable moments in France, from guided tours of renowned vineyards to trips to explore historic villages.
France Cruise FAQs
France is a popular cruise destination, and most major cruise lines offer itineraries that visit French ports. We provide both ocean and river cruises from over 30 different cruise operators, giving you plenty of options to find the perfect cruise.
If you're looking for a specific cruise line, you can use the filters in our Cruise Collection to narrow down your search. For more information or personalised recommendations, our cruise experts are happy to help - call us on 01756 706500
Yes! France offers a variety of incredible river cruises, each showcasing the country’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned wine regions.
- Seine River Cruises: Sail through Normandy and experience the magic of Paris from the water.
- Dordogne & Garonne River Cruises: Explore the Bordeaux region, visit historic châteaux, and enjoy world-famous vineyards.
- Loire River Cruises: Discover the regal Loire Valley, known for its stunning castles and deep cultural heritage.
- Rhone River Cruises: Cruise through the heart of sun-drenched Burgundy and Provence from Lyon to Arles.
You can also explore France’s canals on board a modern 22-passenger hotel barge. Cruise along the picturesque canals of some of France’s most beautiful areas.
No matter your preference, there’s a perfect French river cruise for you. Speak with our cruise experts to find the ideal itinerary – call us on 01756 706500
The cost of a river cruise in France depends on factors such as the duration, cruise line, and time of year. There are options to suit all budgets, with shorter cruises starting from as little as £600 per person, and an average 7-night river cruise from around £1600 per person. If you’d like a longer cruise, or all-inclusive luxury in a penthouse suite, then there is no upper limit!
Whatever your budget, our cruise experts can help you find the perfect cruise. Get in touch with us today by calling 01756 706500
As a tourist using a British passport you can travel to France for up to 90 days without a visa. You will need to make sure your passport has an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date of your return to the UK.
If you’re visiting France from within the Schengen Area, chances are you won’t need a visa before you depart on your cruise. If you’re visiting from outside of this area, you’ll need to check whether a visa is required.
It’s always best to check your government’s advice on travelling abroad.
While each cruise line has its own dress code, the most common on cruise in France is casual for breakfast and lunch, which would include jeans, trousers or casual dresses. For evening meals dress is usually smart casual, for example trousers or a skirt with a blouse or sweater for women, and collared shirts and trousers for male guests. Some cruise lines have a Welcome or Farewell Captain's Dinner, which can be a more formal occasion, and a few cruise lines do have at least one black tie evening.
The ships cruising along the rivers of France are usually small and whilst some do have lifts between decks, it is more common to use the stairs. Wheelchair accessibility is very limited due to narrower doors to cabins and gangway access used in ports.
Ocean cruises along the French coast are generally more suitable for passengers with mobility challenges. These larger ships typically offer spacious cabins, lifts between decks, and dock at major ports with better accessibility. Travellers with mobility issues must cruise with a companion who can assist them if needed.
If you want to discuss your accessibility needs with our team of cruise experts you can call them on 01756 706500. They will be able to make recommendations and find the right cruise and ship for you.
Customer Reviews
Bordeaux River Cruise by GraceThoroughly enjoyed the holiday with Viking. They were very well organised and the crew were friendly and helpful. However I would like to add that Bluewater organised this trip for us in such an efficient way that it took the headache out of planning and making sure all went smoothly.
A wonderful trip by JoThe whole trip from begining to end was an absolute delight. The staff on the ship were all dressed immaculately and were pleasant and helpful at all times. We couldn't fault the standard of food and the choices provided and the service in the restaurant was superb. The ship positively sparkled from end to end and was a credit to everyone concerned. The cruise director and concierge had their work cut out on this trip but certainly rose to the occasion - always happy and smiling despite all the uncertainties this trip threw at them. We enjoyed the excursions but unfortunately, a couple of the local guides were very difficult to understand or their grasp of English was rather lacking. This trip covered a very scenic area of France - unforgettable views in the Ardeche Gorges and very pretty villages like Uzes(?) and Roussillon not to mention the wonderful wine of Chateau -Neuf-du- Pape. A wonderful 11 days!!