It's easy to get excited when you hear names such as Burgundy, Provence and the Camargue. The Rhône and Saône take you right into the picturesque landscapes of southern France, revealing ancient cities such as Lyon, Arles and Avignon, as well as natural scenery flooded with light. Wild horses and flamingos will put a smile on your face in the Camargue. In the sunny climate of this countryside, where Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône grapes ripen, you will feel the laissez-faire of the French way of life. Whether its Edith Piaf, Claude Monet or Picasso - they have all been inspired by the magic of northern France. 

Finding Vincent

The Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh was fascinated by the special light in southern Provence. It inspired him to create numerous pictures in Arles on the banks of the Rhône and to become the founder of modern painting. As the former provincial capital of the Roman empire Arles is also home to numerous important sites of architectural interest, such as the amphitheatre.

The Camargue is situated between the two estuaries of the Rhône, which splits up north of Arles and belongs almost entirely to the city area of Arles. You won't forget your visit to the bull farm, where you'll get an introduction to the world of bull breeding.

Avignon along the Rhône has had a lasting impact on European history. For a few decades in the 14th century, it was the city of the Catholic popes. Wherever you go, you'll come across the relics of the past with palaces, castles, squares, streets, the papal palace and, of course, the famous ruins of the Pont Saint-Bénézet which still straddles half the mighty river Rhône.