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Destinations

Cruise to France with Saga

Embrace the lively French Riviera as you spend time on a South of France cruise calling in at a collection of fascinating destinations. Wander energetic towns, sip coffee in terrace cafes and take in views from up high over the red roofs and azure sea.

Cruising to France from the UK on one of our boutique sister ships means simply sitting back and relaxing from the moment you leave your home. Unwind onboard as you watch the scenery change, admire the glimmering waters of the French coast, linger over meals in our choice of speciality restaurants and spend memorable days exploring ashore.

Why cruise with Saga?

Spirit of Adventure's crew

Embarking on one of Saga’s French cruises means holiday mode from the moment you leave your front door. Saga’s included chauffeur service means that you’ll be collected from your home and driven to the port. And there’s no need to worry about airport baggage allowances – all of our cruises are no-fly.

Once aboard one of our luxury small ships you can unpack and unwind in your cabin, which comes with a balcony as standard. Elsewhere, take a refreshing dip in the pool, tuck into freshly prepared dishes in one of our restaurants, or enjoy a drink in the bar. Just some of the joys of our all-inclusive cruises to France.

Spend days discovering the varied destinations offered by our selection of France cruises independently – or join one of the included excursions and our collection of optional excursions. The choice is yours.

French fancies

Toulon, France

Embark on a cruise to France and spend your days stopping off at a selection of coastal towns. The nation’s Mediterranean coastline is known as the Cote d’Azure and makes up the southeast portion of France. Influenced by ancient Greeks, who colonised the area as early as the 6th century BC, and later by the Romans, the French Riviera has long attracted visitors to its shores.

In the 18th century, France’s Mediterranean coast became popular with wealthy British holidaymakers who flocked here during winter to escape the harsh British weather. Railway connections helped to attract aristocrats in the middle of the 19th century, with the likes of Queen Victoria enjoying the area’s beauty. And in the following century, the coast became a magnet for artists and writers such as Picasso and Matisse.

Self-exploration in the ports

In each of port of call on our South France cruises, you can reap the benefits of its culture, cuisine and coastal charm. Take the chance to explore a string of dreamy destinations scattered along the coast of France.

Toulon

Freedom Square, Toulon

Located on France’s southern Mediterranean coastline, Toulon offers up a mix of culture and urban life. The city is the second largest of France’s naval ports, away from the glitz and glamour of the Cote d’Azur. Here you can take a trip in the cable car to the top of the Mont Faron which overlooks the area.

Sète

Sète harbour

The canal-laced town of Sète is located on the waters of Étang du Thau, an attractive saltwater lagoon. Here you can enjoy a day wandering its down-to-earth streets, unlike the bustle of busy tourist towns elsewhere. Take time to make the journey up Mont Saint-Clair for panoramic views over the coast. Seafood fans will enjoy the multitude of waterside restaurants serving up the catch of the day.

Port-Vendres

Port-Vendres

Situated on the Côte Vermeille, close to the Spanish border in south-eastern France, Port-Vendres brims with artistic heritage. Spend the day in Dali’s old hometown of Cadaques or be wowed by the landscape in Collioure, a favourite of Matisse.

Ajaccio, Corsica

The beach at Ajaccio

Tucked away on Corsica’s west coast, the lively town of Ajaccio is well-known as the birthplace of Napoleon Bonaparte. The island’s largest urban area, Ajaccio boasts a vibrant food scene, plenty of shopping opportunities and a rich cultural heritage to explore.

Spotlight Excursion: Bandol And Wine Tasting

Vineyards in France

Our cruises to France offer up the chance to learn more about culinary culture and traditions. Head off on a dreamy day trip to Bandol, Provence, where you’ll be immersed in the world of local wine making and seaside scenery. Bathed in beautiful sunshine and blessed with nutrient rich soils, the region’s high-quality wines are internationally renowned.

The coastal resort town of Bandol is surrounded by sandy beaches and dotted with beautiful coves. Enjoy some free time here to relax into Bandol’s easy-going ambience before continuing to the Domaine de Frégate. Drenched in 2,000 hours of sunlight per year, the family-run winery has been cultivating grapes since 1882. Take time to tour of the picturesque estate, learn about wine-making techniques and enjoy a formal tasting of the wine and local olive oil produced here.

Find out more about Saga cruises.

The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.

The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.