Avignon
France
It is the symbol of the city. It has spanned the Rhône since 1940 and became internationally famous thanks to the song "Sur le pont d'Avignon". When you cross it, you are in front of the Palais des Papes, one of the largest and most important medieval buildings in Europe. It was built, it must be said, out of sheer laziness: the Archbishop of Bordeaux did not bother to travel to Rome for his papal consecration. He had himself crowned in Lyon and built a palace in Avignon. A monument.
Lyon
France
Lyon, a gourmet's paradise. Here, 2000 years of history, the Musée des Beaux-Arts and a picturesque old town with cobbled streets blend into a fascinating whole. The majestic basilica of Notre-Dame offers breathtaking views over the city and countryside. Immerse yourself in the world of silk painting in the charming working-class district of La Croix-Rousse. The gourmet temple Les Halles de Lyon de Paul Bocuse is a real highlight. Experience the finest cuisine in the traditional bouchons. Oh là là - Lyon combines so much sensuality and pleasure.
Arles
France
This pearl of Provence is surrounded by some of Europe's most beautiful nature reserves. Today, Arles is the epitome of great art and testimony to a rich history, from the amphitheatre to the proud patrician houses. And what would Arles be without Van Gogh - a stroll through the city in the artist's footsteps is also unforgettable.
Tournon
France
Marc Seguin's most beautiful suspension bridge spans the Rhône between Tournon and the neighbouring town of Tain-l'Hermitage. Tournon is France in miniature: a castle, a fine museum on the history of the Counts of Tournon, navigation and the works of Seguin. And a botanical garden, very pleasant! Don't miss: the exhibition at the historic chocolate factory of Tain-l'Hermitage, very tasty!
Viviers
France
At night, stories seem to flutter from the walls of the houses. Narrow alleys. Cobblestones. This little town is a jewel. Indeed, a stroll through Viviers is like stepping back in time to the Middle Ages, for this former episcopal town was spared the destruction of war. In addition to the small shops, there are also great things to see. For example, the cathedral with its five tapestries, three of which were given to the bishop by Napoleon III. The viewpoint in the upper town is a highlight in every sense of the word. What a view over this enchanting place!
Vienne
France
This city is a jewel for people interested in the past and the present. Vienne is a small town, but in the 2nd century it already had 30,000 inhabitants. Trade and steam navigation brought a boom in the 19th century. And what should you see? The archaeological museum, the St-Romain-en-Gal museum complex with the House of the Sea Gods and the remains of the old thermal baths. Afterwards, sit down in a café and enjoy the present.
Chalon-sur-Saône
France
Quelle surprise! The beauty of Chalon-sur-Saône begins at the Gambetta quay, where the boat docks. Walk upstream and discover this pretty town where Julius Caesar left his mark and whose museum is dedicated to the invention of photography. In Chalon-sur-Saône, you will find beautiful half-timbered houses and Art Nouveau facades. The Théâtre Piccolo, modelled on the Royal Opera House at Versailles, is an absolute must.
Trevoux
France
Trevoux is home to a surprising number of art and craft workshops. Until the 18th century, Trevoux was the capital of the independent principality of Dombes. The ramparts, the large houses in the town centre and the ruins of a castle still bear witness to this glorious past. From the ruins of the castle, there is an incredibly impressive view over the Saône.
Tournus
France
So beautiful. So peaceful. Yes, the town of Tournus is idyllic. The old town is cosy and the former abbey, with the facade of the massive Saint Philibert church - the oldest surviving Romanesque building in France - is well worth a visit. A variety of vaults make it particularly interesting. The Hôtel-Dieu, a former hospital with fully preserved period furnishings and a 17th-century apothecary, is also worth a visit.
Mâcon
Frankreich
Mâcon is a charming little town with its colourful old houses, the old church of St Vincent, vineyards and meadows. If you stroll through the town and come to the Place aux Herbes, stop in front of the Maison de Bois, a wooden house. If you look at its façade, you will discover some enchanting grotesques and mythical creatures. By the way: France international footballer Antoine Griezmann was born in Mâcon.