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Great Rail Journeys has withdrawn this trip from sale. We keep the page for reference and comparison. Live alternatives are under Similar journeys below.

Great Rail Journeys · River Cruise

Waterways of France

River cruises through France's Seine, Rhône, Dordogne, and Garonne waterways

Illustration of Waterways of France

Great Rail Journeys operates a series of river cruises through France's most celebrated waterways, combining rail, coach, and leisurely barge travel from Paris through Normandy, Burgundy, Bordeaux, Provence, Alsace, and the Loire Valley. The routes vary by itinerary; all share the experience of slow travel along the Seine, Rhône, Dordogne, and Garonne rivers and lesser-known canals. Travellers explore Impressionist-inspired landscapes, traditional fishing villages, medieval towns, and the wine regions of Bordeaux and Médoc. The package includes access to châteaux, Provence's villages, and local culinary experiences including Étang De Thau shellfish. Departures run monthly from April through October across multiple 2026 and 2027 dates, with prices starting at £2,099 per person. This suits couples, food and wine lovers, and history enthusiasts seeking a relaxed, multi-region journey by water and rail.

What to know before you look closer

  • Great Rail Journeys publishes multiple itineraries under this name but no single day-by-day itinerary in the pack; confirm which waterway route and specific schedule match your dates before booking.
  • The operator notes no single supplement is available on selected departures; verify single-room options and pricing for your chosen date.
  • Price ranges from £2,099 to £3,999; the final cost depends on the specific itinerary, season, and cabin tier selected.

Questions travellers ask

Is rail travel included?
Yes. Great Rail Journeys combines rail, coach, and barge cruises. Rail is part of the transport mix between cities and to reach the waterways.
Which French waterways are covered?
The package cruises the Seine, Rhône, Dordogne, Garonne, and other French rivers and canals, with stops in Normandy, Bordeaux, Burgundy, Provence, Alsace, Loire Valley, and other regions.
When do departures run?
Great Rail Journeys offers 39 departures between April and October 2026 and 2027.
What is included?
Rail travel, barge cruise accommodation, and selected onshore excursions are included. Meals and certain activities may vary by itinerary.
Can I travel without a single supplement?
No single supplement is available on selected departures; check availability for your chosen date.

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