5 French Waterways you Should Cruise On

France’s rivers and canals offer a relaxing and enriching way to explore the country. Family-run cruise line CroisiEurope reveals its five favourite routes that showcase the best of France.

France is woven together by a network of rivers and canals that have carried kings, merchants and artists for centuries. Today, these waterways offer one of the most relaxing and enriching ways to explore the country – and with CroisiEurope, a French family-owned cruise line with 49 years of experience, you can enjoy these routes in style, comfort and authenticity.

CroisiEurope’s French heritage shines through every itinerary, from regionally inspired cuisine to locally guided excursions. Their river ships offer comfort and elegance without crowds, while their canal barges provide cosy, all-inclusive luxury for just 22 guests. All cruises include meals, drinks and entertainment, free wi-fi and optional excursions, making them not just scenic, but seamless. Whether you’re gliding through wine country or drifting past medieval towns, here are the five best rivers and canals to cruise in France.

1. The Seine – Paris to Normandy

The Seine is France’s most iconic river – beginning in Paris and winding northwest to the coast of Normandy. Along the way, you’ll pass Gothic cathedrals, Impressionist landscapes and Second World War landmarks. CroisiEurope’s Seine cruises combine rich history with breathtaking views, onboard French cuisine and excursions to Monet’s gardens in Giverny, Rouen’s medieval streets and the D-Day beaches. Starting in 2026, you will be able to cruise the Seine aboard a paddlewheel ship, only with CroisiEurope.

Why it’s the best: The perfect mix of art, history and elegance all starting in the City of Light.

2. The Rhône & Saône – Provence to Burgundy

CroisiEurope’s combined Rhône and Saône cruises deliver a dream itinerary for food and wine lovers. Sail from Burgundy’s vineyard-covered hills to Provence’s sun-drenched towns. Visit Lyon, Avignon, Arles and Tournus while enjoying delicious regional cuisine and wine tastings, and unforgettable visits to Roman ruins and medieval monuments.

Why it’s the best: A rich, flavourful journey through two of France’s most beloved regions seamlessly linked by two magnificent rivers.

3. Canal du Midi – southern France

This UNESCO-listed canal in Occitanie is ideal for slow, scenic travel. Aboard CroisiEurope’s intimate barge, you’ll pass vineyards, cypress-lined paths and charming villages. The pace is gentle, with plenty of time for wine tastings, bike rides and long lunches under the sun.

Why it’s the best: Peaceful, luxurious, and packed with Provençal character perfect for travellers who love a slow pace and wine country charm.

4. Bordeaux Region (Gironde, Dordogne & Garonne Rivers)

France’s wine capital is best explored by water. CroisiEurope’s Bordeaux cruises sail a trio of rivers, offering access to the famed vineyards of Médoc, Saint-Émilion and Sauternes. With onboard wine pairings and expert-led tastings, it’s a cruise made for oenophiles.

Why it’s the best: A wine-centric river journey through one of the most prestigious and beautiful wine-producing regions in the world.

5. Canal de la Marne au Rhin – Alsace and Lorraine

Winding through eastern France, this canal route brings you to Strasbourg, charming half-timbered villages and rolling countryside. Highlights include the incredible Arzviller inclined plane (a boat lift like no other), traditional Alsatian cuisine and intimate encounters with local culture.

Why it’s the best: A colourful, storybook experience that blends French and German influences in one of the country’s most underrated regions.

croisieuroperivercruises.com

From France Today Magazine