France and Italy River Cruises
4.5 stars on(8,179 reviews)- Choose from 5 France and Italy tours
- 24/7 customer support
5 best river cruises through France And Italy
Compiled by
MelissaFrance and Italy travel expert at TourRadar
The dramatic Bonifacio cliffs of France mark the start of this voyage to Syracuse, Italy aboard Emerald Sakara. Luxurious suite accommodations complement visits to Porto Cervo's bustling marina, Trapani's medieval quarters, and stunning Mount Etna views from Giardini Naxos.
Duration 11 days Destinations Spain, France, Italy, Malta Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $26,864
50% Off- NZ$13,416You save $13,449
From Nice to Civitavecchia, the Emerald Sakara threads through French and Italian waters. Guests can try their luck at Monte Carlo's renowned casino, marvel at Porto Venere's UNESCO-listed church, and venture into Capri's mystical Blue Grotto. The journey features 41 gourmet meals while visiting 14 iconic Mediterranean ports.
Duration 15 days Destinations France, Monaco, Italy Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $54,065
50% Off- NZ$27,025You save $27,041
MV La Belle des Océans charts a course from Nice through French and Italian waters. The ship glides through Maddalena Archipelago's secluded coves and Costa Smeralda's crystal-clear waters. The voyage features upscale Riviera Suites and sophisticated French cuisine with premium beverages included.
Duration 8 days Destinations Nice, Livorno, Portoferraio, Alghero, Porto Cervo, Porto Santo Stefano, La Spezia Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
50% Off- NZ$5,194
Luxury awaits aboard the Emerald Sakara as it winds through the French and Italian Rivieras. The ship docks at exclusive ports including Saint-Tropez and Portofino, where travelers join guided walks through medieval villages, savor wine tastings, and can opt for Cinque Terre excursions. Luxury suites and gourmet dining enhance the voyage.
Duration 8 days Destinations France, Italy, Spain Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $63,474
50% Off- NZ$31,737You save $31,737
The elegant Emerald Sakara weaves through the French and Italian Rivieras, stopping at celebrated ports like Saint-Tropez and Portofino. Travelers stroll Santa Margherita Ligure's sophisticated promenade, wander through Menton's Palais Carnolès gardens, and witness Monte Carlo's Grand Prix circuit. Luxury suites and premium dining complete the experience.
Duration 6 days Destinations France, Italy, Monaco Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $16,448
50% Off- NZ$8,199You save $8,249
What our customers ask about France and Italy River Cruises
When is the best time to take a France and Italy river cruise?
France and Italy river cruises are at their peak from May to September. During these months travelers can expect clear skies and favorable sailing conditions along the Mediterranean coast. While July and August bring the highest temperatures they also draw the largest crowds. Many experienced travelers opt for May June or September October when the weather remains mild and ports are less crowded. Nice typically sees temperatures around 75°F in May while Portofino offers excellent sailing conditions through September. A TourRadar traveler noted: "We chose early June for our cruise and found it ideal - warm enough for swimming in Cassis' calanques but not too hot for exploring ports like Santa Margherita Ligure."
What's the typical duration and cost of France and Italy river cruises?
Most France and Italy river cruises run between 6 and 15 days with 8-day journeys being the most common choice. Price points begin at 2,800 USD for standard 8-day trips and can reach 32,000 USD for premium extended voyages. A 6-day exploration of the Côte d'Azur starts at 12,790 USD while more comprehensive multi-region itineraries can cost up to 32,180 USD. As noted by a TourRadar traveler: "While not inexpensive, the all-inclusive nature and ability to visit multiple destinations without repacking made it worth the investment."
What types of ships are used for France and Italy river cruises?
The vessels serving these routes are primarily luxury yacht-style ships designed for intimate cruising experiences. The Emerald Sakara serves as a prime example carrying just 100 passengers with 72 crew members. Accommodations range from standard Staterooms to Owner's Suites complete with private terraces. Ships like the MV La Belle des Océans feature Horizon and Ocean Suites offering sweeping sea views. As shared by a TourRadar traveler: "The Emerald Sakara's boutique size allowed us to dock right in the heart of coastal towns, while still offering luxury amenities like the Aqua Pool and multiple dining venues."
What's included in the dining experience on France and Italy river cruises?
These cruises serve three daily meals that blend French and Italian culinary traditions. Most packages include wine beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Ships like the Emerald Sakara host special welcome and farewell dinners plus regional wine tastings. Guests might enjoy authentic Provençal bouillabaisse in Marseille or fresh-caught seafood in Portofino. As one TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The fusion of French and Italian flavors was exceptional - from fresh pasta in Portofino to wine tastings in Saint-Tropez, every meal was a culinary journey."
What shore excursions are typically offered on France and Italy river cruises?
The excursions mix cultural exploration with coastal activities. Standard offerings include guided walks through Porto Venere wine tours in Provence and boat trips to Cinque Terre. Active travelers can hike Portofino's coastal trails or swim in Saint-Tropez's hidden coves. Basic excursions come included while specialty tours are available for additional fees. A TourRadar traveler shared: "The variety of excursions was excellent - one day we'd be exploring Monaco's famous casino, the next hiking to secluded Mediterranean beaches near Cassis."
What are the typical port cities visited on France and Italy river cruises?
The routes connect celebrated coastal destinations along both rivieras. French ports include Nice Saint-Tropez and Cassis with its access to Calanques National Park. Italian stops feature Portofino Porto Venere and Santa Margherita Ligure where visitors find an elegant promenade and historic sites like Chiesa di Santa Margherita. As one TourRadar traveler noted about Portofino: "The natural beauty combined with the colorful houses and exclusive boutiques made this stop unforgettable - it's truly the gem of the Italian Riviera."