Viviers

Viviers

France

Wander through narrow medieval streets to discover a stunning 12th-century cathedral overlooking the Rhône River valley.

Currency Euro (EUR)
Language French
Time Zone CET (UTC+1)
Best Time to Visit May–Oct
Typical Duration 7-14 nights
Price Range $1,778-$9,690 per person
Port Type Port of Call
Tender Port No

Gateway to Rhône River cruising and medieval Provençal charm, offering access to historic wine regions and picturesque river towns.

Cruises that visit Viviers

Build Your Day in Viviers

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 1:00 PM
Usually about 5 hours ashore
Getting around:
Le Sentier des Ocres Walking trails in a former ocher quarry Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 21k Closed · Opens 9 AM Sat
Aven d'Orgnac Underground caverns & prehistoric museum Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 11k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Sat
Pont de Balazuc Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 3k
Medieval Castle of Saint Montan Onsite services Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k Closed · Opens 9 AM Sun
Isla Cool Douce Recreation hub for swimming & boating Beach pavillion · ★ 4.1 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM Sat
Château de Massillan The restaurant is above average and the food is tasty and well presented. Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Plage de Sauze Swimming & kayaking off a river beach Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Jardin des Herbes Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 1k
La guinguette des docks Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 3.9 · 1k
Plage du Lac de la Pignedoré Swimming lake · ★ 4.4 · 1k
le Tennessee Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Diner · ★ 4.1 · 1k
La Cigale Et La Fourchette Great food..lovely wine..friendly people..not too expensive..top French · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Hôtel Relais du Vivarais Great environment, warm hospitality, tasty meals. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Cathédrale Saint-Vincent Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Les chevaliers Fantastic food, very helpful service, and lovely location. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Hôtel Rest. Auberge de l' Helvie Dine-in·No delivery French · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Au Café Français Dine-in·No delivery Bar · ★ 3.7 · 0k
Carrefour Contact Prepared foods·Credit cards·Batteries Supermarket · ★ 3.9 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
Port de plaisance de Viviers Marina · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Bar Restaurant Du Château Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 3.9 · 0k
La Terrasse des Carmes The food was delicious and the owners are incredibly friendly and sweet :) Restaurant · ★ 5 · 0k
O'BON CHOIX Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Fast Food · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Au Petit Creux Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 0k
Boulangerie-Pâtisserie Au Pain D'antan In-store shopping Bakery · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 6:30 AM Sat
La Pétrisane No delivery Bakery · ★ 4.1 · 0k Closed · Opens 6:30 AM Sat
La Joannade Tourist attraction · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Maison Diocésaine Charles de Foucauld Grand Séminaire de Viviers Place of worship · ★ 4.5 · 0k
La table de Michel Dine-in·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Pont romain Bridge · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Pizzeria l'art des choix viviers Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Pizza · ★ 3.8 · 0k
PHARMACIE DE VIVIERS Delivery·Medication disposal·Debit cards Pharmacy · ★ 3.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 8:30 AM Sat
Tabac Du Port Tobacco shop · ★ 4 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
Delicatessen Takeout·No delivery Caterer · ★ 4.9 · 0k Closed · Opens 10:30 AM Thu
L' HANAE Delivery Florist · ★ 4.3 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Sat
Zinc Et Broc No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k Permanently closed
Clos Saint Roch Cottage · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Arobase Informatique In-store pickup Computer store · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closed · Opens 9 AM Sat
Statue de l'Archange Saint-Michel Observation deck · ★ 4.8 · 0k
cicp maison des chevaliers Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Mon
Le Collectif du Château de Verchaüs Non-profit organization · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Mon
Point De Vue 360° Observation deck · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Tabac Presse Saint Michel Tobacco shop · ★ 4.2 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM Sat
Restaurant Le relais du Vivarais Dine-in·Takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
La Boutik du Coin Onsite services Grocery store · ★ 5 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
Lestrade Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Wine bar · ★ 5 · 0k
Brasserie l'Estrouchat No takeout Brewpub · ★ 5 · 0k Closed · Opens 10 AM Sat
Café des Arts Dine-in·No delivery Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 0k Permanently closed
Ardèche Historical landmark · ★ 4.2 · 0k
Arche "Petit Pont d'Arc" Tourist attraction · ★ 4 · 0k
VinScéne cave/bar à vin Wine bar · ★ 5 · 0k Temporarily closed
Passerelle sur l'Escoutay à Viviers 07 Hiking area · ★ 5 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Next Departures from Viviers

About Viviers

Viviers, nestled in the Rhone region of France, serves as a charming port of call for river cruise enthusiasts exploring one of Europe's most scenic waterways. Three leading river cruise lines—Viking River Cruises, Emerald Cruises, and Riverside Luxury Cruises—regularly dock here, offering passengers access to over 1,100 upcoming sailings. Most cruises from this region span seven nights, making Viviers an ideal stopping point for itineraries that connect the region's most celebrated destinations including Lyon, Avignon, Arles, and Tournon-sur-Rhône.

The summer and early autumn months of May through October represent peak season, with September and August drawing the most visitors. When your ship docks in Viviers, you'll discover a picturesque medieval town crowned by its impressive cathedral, offering a quintessential taste of French riverside charm. The port's strategic location makes it an excellent base for exploring the Rhone Valley's renowned wine regions and historic sites, ensuring your time ashore is both enriching and memorable.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Medieval Cathedral & Old Town

Explore Viviers' stunning 12th-century Cathedral Saint-Vincent, perched dramatically above the Rhône with intricate Renaissance details and soaring Gothic architecture. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets of the old town, discovering Renaissance mansions and charming stone facades that transport you back centuries. This hilltop gem offers breathtaking river views and authentic Provençal atmosphere.

2

Local Market & Provençal Flavors

Visit Viviers' vibrant morning market to sample regional specialties: fresh lavender, local cheeses, and Rhône Valley wines. Taste traditional Provençal pastries and artisanal products from vendors who've served the community for generations. The market captures the authentic essence of rural French life and offers perfect souvenirs and snacks.

3

Scenic Rhône Valley Walks

Stroll along the picturesque Rhône riverbanks with panoramic views of terraced vineyards cascading down hillsides. The riverside promenade offers peaceful walks past historic locks and traditional river architecture. This serene landscape showcases the natural beauty that defines the Rhône Valley's charm and agricultural heritage.

4

Artisan Shops & Local Crafts

Browse independent boutiques selling handcrafted pottery, regional textiles, and locally-made goods throughout Viviers' compact center. Discover unique souvenirs from artisans who preserve traditional Provençal craftsmanship. These intimate shops offer authentic, one-of-a-kind items you won't find elsewhere, perfect for meaningful mementos of your river journey.

5

Bishop's Palace & Local History

Tour the historic Bishop's Palace, showcasing Renaissance architecture and regional history through its elegant rooms and period furnishings. This former ecclesiastical residence reveals how Viviers thrived as an important religious center along the Rhône. The palace provides fascinating insights into medieval French provincial life and architectural heritage.

Cruise Lines at Viviers

Cruises Departing From Viviers

Cruises Visiting Viviers

Ship Schedule at Viviers

Viviers Location

Other Cruise Ports in France

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Viviers known for?

Viviers is a medieval town on the Rhône River, famed for Saint-Vincent Cathedral, well-preserved ramparts, and historic stone houses.

What are the must-see sights in Viviers?

Saint-Vincent Cathedral, ancient ramparts, and the charming riverside streets.

How can I reach Viviers from Lyon or Valence?

Viviers is reachable by road from major cities, with regional trains and local buses linking nearby towns.

When is the best time to visit Viviers?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and quieter streets for exploring.