One of Europe’s densest concentrations of urban Renaissance buildings, Old Lyon is pure pleasure to explore. The dwellings of this UNESCO site date back to the city’s silk weaving success during the 15th century, when Italian merchants and bankers put their profits into building town houses; today some of their elegant residences house museums. St. Jean Cathedral lies in the heart of Old Lyon and is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture. It has weathered periods of political turmoil and religious wars and is now one of the city’s most prominent symbols. After breakfast, disembark your ship and transfer by high-speed train to your next ship.
Long a hub of French culture and cuisine, Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Over the centuries, Parisian culture has been built on the wings of inspiration. Music, film, architecture, literature, dance and the visual arts all have their brilliant place in the museums, theaters, bookstores and remarkably preserved buildings of this magnificent city. At the center of it all is the Champs-Élysées. With its inviting riverside promenade, graceful bridges and splendid views of all things Parisian, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum. Embark your ship and settle into your stateroom.
Videos
Viking Longships: Explorer Suite
The exceptional Explorer Suites on board Viking Longships feature separate sleeping and sitting rooms, a wraparound veranda with 270° views, a French balcony and hotel-style amenities.
Gothic Cathedrals
Marvel at the ingenuity and ethereal quality of Gothic architecture, a style inspired by a period when religion governed life and epitomized by Europe’s soaring cathedrals from the 12th to 16th centuries.
Shakespeare & Co.
Peruse this literary haven in Paris, a favorite of book lovers and renowned authors since 1919. Browse its stacks and learn about the “tumbleweeds” who work and reside here.
French Language Lesson
Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!
The Fundamentals of Wine
Join world-renowned Master of Wine Susie Barrie and Karine to learn about the fundamentals of enjoying fine wine, from opening and pouring to decanting and storing.
The Impressionists
Learn the story of how impressionist paintings by Monet, Renoir, Cézanne and Degas forever changed the face of the art world and became a symbol of modern French life. Follow these iconic artists’ footsteps on a France river cruise with Viking.
Explore: Paris
Discover the magical “City of Light.” Visit the Shakespeare & Co. bookstore, a literary haven on Paris’s Left Bank; stroll the Champs-Élysées; and admire the priceless works of the Louvre. Be sure to stop for a cup of coffee in the St. Germain district.
France, Painter’s Muse
See for yourself how France has inspired famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and so many more.
Glühwein (Mulled Wine)
In November and December, public houses in nearly every European town offer mulled wine as a delicious antidote to the season’s chill. Let Karine show you how to prepare your own with our special and simple recipe.
Setting a New Standard
Learn about the past and future of Viking and the innovations behind our Viking Longships. Then come explore the great rivers of the world in unprecedented comfort.
