Discover the soul of France aboard a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise—where every moment is steeped in beauty, culture, and indulgence

For centuries, poets, artists, and travelers have been entranced by the spell of France. For those fortunate enough to cruise its winding rivers, France offers an alluring mosaic of history, culture, and scenic beauty. It’s a nation where every cobblestone tells a story, where chateaus stand tall against azure skies, and where grapes ripen to perfection under the Provençal sun. 

Wine, bread, cheese, art, architecture, philosophy... you name it, and France could make an excellent case for why its version is the best in Europe. Renowned in every arena, France beckons to the traveler who longs for a taste of the extraordinary.  

When to Go 

We sail between the months of March and November for the best weather. Visit in the spring for fresh blooms and cooler weather, in the summer for sunshine and vibrant greenery, or in the fall for harvest season.  

What to Pack 

We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain. You will participate in a significant amount of walking during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option. 

Enjoy Regional Wines  

France is widely considered the world’s best destination for wine.  Each distinct wine region is highly celebrated in its own rights. One of the finest of all: Bordeaux. Dive into the wine culture here, with endless opportunities to enjoy the artful red blends, sweet sauternes, and more produced here. 

Burgundy has the highest number of unique AOC designations of any region in France, in large part due to the highly specific attention paid to the terroir of its vineyards. The most popular varietals grown here? Pinot noir and chardonnay. 

While you’ll have no trouble finding truly excellent red and white wines produced from the syrah, cabernet sauvignon, and grenache (both noir and blanc) growing in the vineyards of Provence, another drink reigns supreme here. Ranging from bright pink to a subtle blush, rosé is as good as water in this region. During the warmer months, a chilled glass of rosé becomes the ultimate summer drink. There truly is an excellent wine for anyone sailing through France.  

Why a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise 

Imagine drifting through the heart of France, not merely as a traveler, but as an honored guest aboard a floating boutique hotel, where every detail is an elegant reflection of French style and culture. Endless pours of fi ne French wine, delectable cuisine, and immersive experiences are included in the price of your trip, so you can indulge in the best France has to off er without a concern in the world. 

Uniworld presents not one, but three exquisite cruises, each unfolding the diverse tapestry that is France. These three itineraries line up perfectly to off er a panoply of further vacation options. Mix-and-match sailings or extend your trip to craft a French vacation tailored to your desires.

Bordeaux 

The Bordeaux region, crowned by its eponymous city, is a testament to the timelessness of French elegance. Gothic cathedrals, grand estates, and medieval ruins dot a landscape blanketed by some of the world’s most revered vineyards. From the legendary Saint-Émilion to the picturesque Pomerol, Bordeaux is where viniculture becomes artistry. The region’s towns, like Cognac and Libourne, are a beautiful weave of historic streets and squares, all with their unique tales and flavors. 

Embark on a scenic drive from Blaye to Bourg along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie and marvel at the sights of Blaye Fortress and Lansac Windmill along the way. Slow things down in Libourne and on your return to Bordeaux with multiple wine tastings, village tours, a farmers’ market visit, and Bordeaux heritage walking tour. Join us on a showcase of the best Southwest France has to offer. 

Burgundy & Provence 

The romance of Burgundy is woven with verdant vineyards, historic monasteries, and iconic dishes like coq au vin and escargot. Further south, Provence beckons with its sun-kissed charm. Think azure skies, fields ablaze with golden sunflowers and purple lavender, and ancient towns where cobblestone lanes echo with age-old legends. From Avignon’s Palais des Papes, a vestige of a time when popes resided outside Rome, to Arles, which once captivated Van Gogh with its beauty, the tapestry of experiences is endlessly enchanting.  

Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, enjoying the region’s incomparable wine and cuisine and discovering its many treasures. Visit Avignon’s majestic Palace of the Popes. Experience “Village Day” in enchanting Viviers. And for those who wish for a more active exploration of the area, you can hike the vineyards of the Rhône and pedal through Lyon, a city designed with bike riders in mind. Explore unforgettable “Burgundy & Provence” where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills.

Paris & Normandy 

Paris, often dubbed the “City of Light,” is a mesmerizing blend of historic grandeur and modern elegance. From the cobbled alleys of Montmartre to the grand Champs-Élysées, Paris encapsulates a timeless allure. But the story doesn’t end here. Venture further to Normandy, where nature, history, and culture blend seamlessly. Cliff s loom over age-old harbors, ancient monasteries cast reflections upon tranquil waters, and every meadow and beach whispers tales of valor, from the Vikings to D-Day landing sites. 

Cruise from Paris through Normandy’s countryside, uncovering its many charms: Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet’s beloved home in Giverny and the famed Normandy beaches. Experience a different side of Northern France’s history with a tour of the majestic palace of Versailles, once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinett