When the Catholic Church acquired Avignon during the 1300s, it quickly transformed the quiet riverside village into a major religious and cultural center. Evidence of the makeover is everywhere. In addition to the enormous palace, the church constructed a wall around Avignon and provided mansion-like residences to its cardinals. Avignon Cathedral was dwarfed by its neighbor, the Palace of the Popes. Centuries after the papacy returned to Rome, the Vatican called for a gilded statue of Mary to be placed atop the cathedral; her golden gaze still welcomes visitors today.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.
Avignon Walk & Pope’s Palace
Visit the monumental palace, once the seat of seven popes, and explore its medieval city.
Lavender Fields of Provence
Learn about the legendary lavender that graces the fields of Provence each summer and visit a medieval monastery.
Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tasting
Discover the region of Châteauneuf-du-Pape and indulge in a sample of its superb wines.
Pont du Gard Aqueduct
See the magnificent three-tiered structure built without mortar by Romans 2,000 years ago.
Canoe the Rhône River
Admire the beauty of Avignon and learn more about the ecosystem of the Rhône River during a scenic canoe ride.
Videos
NBC’s Mary Carillo & Viking’s Jean Newman Glock in Provence
Join Mary Carillo, former professional tennis player and correspondent for NBC’s coverage of the Olympic Games, and Jean Newman Glock, Viking’s Ambassador-at-Large, as they explore Provence.
Discover Provence with NBC’s Mary Carillo
Join Mary Carillo, former professional tennis player and correspondent for NBC’s coverage of the Olympic Games, as she experiences Viking’s Lyon & Provence river voyage.
Thanksgiving in Europe
Celebrate Thanksgiving with Viking on November sailings. There is no better way to complement your succulent turkey dinner than with a stroll through one of Europe’s cultural capitals.
Making a Viking Longship
Witness the intricate craftsmanship and herculean efforts that go into building a Viking Longship as you pay a fascinating visit to Rostock’s Neptun Yard along Germany’s northern coast.
French Language Lesson
Learn a few useful French words and phrases with Maaike, your Viking tutor. À votre Santé!
Viking Executive Chefs
Come into the galleys of our European river ships for an unforgettable visit with two Viking Executive Chefs, and glimpse some of the passion that goes into every dish they serve.
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.