Adventures by Disney Launches New 2026 Provence River Cruise Through Southern France

Adventures by Disney is debuting an eight-day river cruise through southern France for 2026, beginning in Lyon and sailing down the Rhone River Valley to Provence, with stops in Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles. The itinerary includes VIP access to climb the ancient Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard, kayaking the River Gardon, guided tours through van Gogh's Arles, and tastings of Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines. Junior Adventurers receive their own Ratatouille-inspired guided food tour in Lyon, while an exclusive private ride on the historic steam-powered Train de l'Ardeche is available only to Adventures by Disney guests.

Adventures by Disney is setting sail in 2026 on a brand-new eight-day river cruise through southern France, beginning in Lyon and winding down the Rhone River Valley to Provence. The itinerary visits Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles, weaving together Roman history, Impressionist art, world-class wine regions, and Disney-inspired storytelling at every stop. An exclusive private departure on the steam-powered Train de l'Ardeche along the Vivarais Railway is available only to Adventures by Disney guests, while Junior Adventurers receive a Ratatouille-inspired guided food tour through Lyon.

From Lyon to Provence: The Journey

The eight-day Provence river cruise by Adventures by Disney begins in Lyon, one of the world's culinary capitals, and sails through the charming towns of the Rhone River Valley into Provence — a region in the south of France celebrated for its cultural, artistic, historical, and culinary riches. The route through Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Arles provides a comprehensive sweep through some of southern France's most storied landscapes.

Touch Roman History at Pont du Gard

In Avignon, guests receive VIP access to climb to the top of the historic Pont du Gard — an ancient Roman aqueduct and UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood for nearly 2,000 years and remains one of the best-preserved Roman engineering feats in the world. For guests who prefer ground level, kayaking along the winding banks of the River Gardon offers sweeping views of the ancient columns from the water. The Musee du Pont du Gard provides a complementary ground-level exploration of Roman daily life through artifacts recovered from the area near Nimes.

Flavors and Scents of Southern France

Southern France's culinary tradition is woven throughout the journey. From rich chocolates and aged cheeses to freshly baked goods, olive oils, and fragrant herbs, the itinerary immerses guests in the flavors of the region. Adults can sample local wines from some of the world's greatest wine-growing areas, including vintages from Chateauneuf-du-Pape vineyards cultivated at the request of Catholic popes who resided in Avignon in the 14th century.

For younger guests, Junior Adventurers receive their own guided food tour through Lyon with storytelling inspired by Disney and Pixar's Ratatouille — connecting the city's legendary culinary culture to the animated film's world.

The Sights of Provence: Painting Country

The Rhone River winds through sweeping landscapes of rolling hills, fields of wildflowers, olive groves, and quaint villages — scenery that inspired renowned artists including Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh across the 18th and 19th centuries. In Arles, guests visit St. Paul de Mausole — the institution where van Gogh created more than 250 works of art — and the town of St. Remy, the setting for his most famous work, "The Starry Night."

An Exclusive Train Journey Through the Vivarais Railway

One of the most distinctive experiences on the cruise is an exclusive private departure on the historic steam-powered Train de l'Ardeche along the Vivarais Railway — available only to Adventures by Disney guests. The journey crosses arching bridges and travels through the natural landscapes of the Doux Gorges, accompanied by the unmistakable sounds of the steam engine's whistle and the rhythm of the tracks.

Adventure Guides Bring Disney Storytelling to Every Stop

As with all Adventures by Disney itineraries, Adventure Guides provide the masterful storytelling, service, and local expertise that bring each destination to life. The Rhone River Valley's historical treasures — some dating back to the prehistoric era — combined with Disney's signature storytelling style and one-of-a-kind activities make this southern France cruise a complete family experience.

Booking Window

The Adventures by Disney Provence River Cruise is available for 2026 departures. Travelers can learn more and book at adventuresbydisney.com, by calling 1-833-223-0103, or through a travel agent. The itinerary is designed for both families and adult travelers seeking an immersive, storytelling-driven way to experience southern France.