Chalon-sur-Saône, France

Exploring the Place: Using the French definition of place — that is, the public square. Brush shoulders with locals and French visitors day-tripping by boat in the town's outdoor cafés and bustling markets. The surroundings are full of charm: half-timbered houses with perfectly painted facades, and tiny shops selling antiques and local delicacies.

Walking or Bicycle Touring: Strolling along the riverfront is always a pleasure, but biking is also a popular modern pastime in Chalon-sur-Saône, which is a key point on the cycle route network that crisscrosses southern Burgundy. You can enjoy a ride alongside the canals or through wine country following the “voies vertes” (green ways). 

Cathedrale Saint-Vincent de Chalon-sur-Saône: Casually known as Chalon Cathedral, this Roman church is an imposing presence looming over the town’s main square. Its bones are Romanesque, but the dominant architectural style is Gothic, with a neo-Gothic 19th-century facade.

The Invention of Photography: This is by far this town’s biggest claim to fame — and you can get the full scoop on the man who snapped the first photo (it was not a selfie) at Musée Nicéphore Niépce.

Slice of Life Lovers: Because it’s an access point for Canal du Centre, Chalon-sur-Saône sees many “plaisanciers Français” — French boaters. In fact, small personal craft far outnumber river cruise ships here.

Wine Aficionados: This is the first or last stop for many river cruise itineraries in Burgundy. If you’re a fan of French wine, it’s a no-brainer to extend your trip and visit the legendary wine regions just to the south. If you only have a day, visit the Maison des Vins and taste your way through the appellations.

No Guarantees: If the water level of the Saône is too low to permit safe passage, commercial cruise lines will cancel this port stop and remain in Lyon.