AmaWaterways • Celebration of Wine

Essence of Burgundy & Provence Wine Cruise

Journey from Burgundy’s storied vineyards toward the sunlit Rhône, connecting celebrated wine country with medieval towns, Roman heritage and France’s culinary capital.

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Length7 nights
RouteDijon–Arles or reverse
RiversSaône & Rhône
CountryFrance

Two Legendary French Wine Regions in One Journey

Burgundy and the Rhône Valley speak different wine languages. Burgundy is renowned for site-specific expressions of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, while the Rhône introduces a wider family of grapes and styles as the landscape turns toward Provence. Traveling by river allows those regional differences to unfold naturally.

The Essence of Burgundy & Provence itinerary links Dijon and the Saône with Mâcon, Lyon, Vienne and the southern Rhône. Along the way, guests encounter vineyard villages, historic architecture and food traditions inseparable from the wines made nearby.

Highlights of the Seven-Night Journey

Day 1 • Dijon

Gateway to Burgundy

Begin in a city known for Burgundian culture, cuisine and easy access to famous vineyard country.

Day 2 • Chalon-sur-Saône

A taste of Burgundy

Explore a river town tied to the vineyards and traditions of the Côte Chalonnaise.

Day 3 • Tournus

Stone villages and golden vineyards

Discover Romanesque heritage and rural Burgundy along the Saône.

Day 4 • Mâcon

The spirit of southern Burgundy

Move into Mâconnais and nearby Beaujolais landscapes where the scenery begins to soften.

Day 5 • Lyon

France’s culinary capital

Experience the meeting point of the Rhône and Saône through food, history and city life.

Day 6 • Vienne

Roman history beside the Rhône

Explore one of the river’s historic cities as northern Rhône wine country draws near.

Day 7 • Southern Rhône

Provençal flavors and landscapes

Follow the river toward warmer light, historic towns and the wines of southern France.

Day 8 • Arles

Disembarkation

Conclude in Provence or begin the itinerary in reverse, depending on your sailing.

From Burgundy Chardonnay to Rhône Blends

This itinerary offers unusually broad wine context within one week: Burgundy’s Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Beaujolais and Mâconnais wines, and the Syrah- and Grenache-based traditions associated with the Rhône. The changing landscapes make the contrasts memorable.

Celebration of Wine sailings may include a dedicated wine host, guided tastings and a food-and-wine pairing experience. Hosts and programming vary by departure; the co-branded itinerary page has the current details.

A Comfortable Passage Through France

Between excursions, your AmaWaterways ship provides a relaxed setting for regional cuisine, river views and conversation. Included touring choices on many days make it possible to balance wine interests with history, walking, cycling or a gentler pace.

Is This Wine Cruise Right for You?

This is a strong choice for travelers who want variety: benchmark French wine regions, excellent food, layered history and scenery that changes from northern vineyards to Provence. It also works particularly well for wine clubs whose members enjoy comparing regions and grape varieties.

Winery owners and wine clubs considering a hosted group can also explore our wine cruises for wineries and wine clubs. For a broader introduction, visit our guide to European wine cruises.

Explore Essence of Burgundy & Provence Sailings

See current departure dates, offers and availability through CruiseOne–The Green Group’s co-branded AmaWaterways page.

View Dates, Prices & Reservations

Itineraries, ships, excursions, fares and availability are subject to change. Please review the current AmaWaterways itinerary and booking details before reserving.