River Cruises: Destinations

The only thing more breathtaking than walking aboard one of these vessels is stepping off. For any river cruise around Europe there is a unique set of things to enjoy and see. To see Europe by sailing its great rivers is to open up new realms for yourself. History aficionados, adventure-seekers, and people just trying to learn about different cultures will all find something to enjoy. You will live exciting moments in the foremost cultural centers of Europe, see historic monuments and take in the lovely scenery. Your cruiser will be able to move into the smaller ports due to its nimble size, providing you the opportunity to visit towns, villages, and sights you might otherwise not be able to explore.

Famed Rivers of France

The waterways of France offer up a number of of the world’s most well known destinations. From its majestic Bordeaux region and gastronomic Lyon, to historic Normandy and scenic Provence, not to mention stylish Paris, France features something for everyone. Aquitaine, once upon a time one of Europe’s most influential kingdoms, boasts gorgeous vineyards, farmland, and forested areas as well as vibrant ports of call. Périgord is home to the legendary Camus Cognac distillery, where you can create your own individual blend, and offers truffle hunting for adventurous food lovers. The coast town of Arcachon in southwest France is famous for its delicious oysters. Go winetasting at famous wineries in Saint-Émilion, Médoc and Sauternes. Whether you choose the Rhône River, the Seine, the Gironde, or the Dordogne, you are in for a treat with France’s culture of decadent food and wine, distinguished works of art, and fascinating history.

Historied Rivers of Central Europe

Cruises on the Elbe River go into Germany and the Czech Republic on a course lined by ancient fortifications and medieval villages. Fans of German Riesling will enjoy cruising down the Mosel River, known as the Moselle in France, which will take them through the part of Germany famous for its wines. In Central Europe, a Danube River cruise will cruise through Vienna, Austria, where you can be taught how to waltz as they did back in the days of the Austrian court; and through Budapest, Hungary, where you can indulge in the famous thermal baths called banya locally. Foodies will love the Austro-Hungarian culinary delights, while inquisitive adventurers might want to have time in some lesser-known cities such as Passau or Bratislava.

The Waterways of the Tsars

In Russia you will not want to miss the splendid cathedral of St. Basil’s or the unique architecture of Moscow’s historical Red Square. Art aficionados will enjoy the impressive Hermitage Museum in Russia, which is the world’s second largest museum. A visit to the kommunalka will give you a first-hand look of how families lived commune-style in the Soviet era, while a stop at the gorgeous Peterhof Palace will give you fascinating insight into Peter the Great’s everyday life. In addition to its world-famous caviar, Russia has some other excellent traditional foods you should sample: blini pancakes, solyanka, borscht, and pirog. Numerous peoples had a role in the story of the Dnieper River: Russian, Ottoman, Jewish, Cossack, Greek, Tatar, and Mongol. Historic places of worship and monasteries, Soviet-era monuments, museums and displays of legendary horsemanship, and music and dance are found along the river’s banks from Kiev to Odessa.

Portugal's Duoro River Valley

In Portugal you can sail the Douro River to the capital city, Lisbon, with its medieval old town and thriving newer neighborhoods with fashionable restaurants, bars, and cafes. Wine aficionados will want to stop in the lovely vineyard region to sample local wines, while the classic foods and fado singing will be a delight for all. The Douro River Valley is the world’s oldest demarcated wine appellation and a UNESCO site.

Nordic Wonders

Experience Nordic magic by sea, then tour highlights of the legendary Rhine River. Begin your trip in Bergen where the Vikings once roamed, knowing that ahead of you lies the dazzling beauty of the fjords and the neighboring village of Flåm, the ancient click for wandering wood buildings of Old Town Kristiansand, and ultimately Stavanger and Olso with their modern cultures and lifestyles. Art aficionados will want to stop in Denmark’s coastal town of Skagen, once summer home to the legendary group of Scandinavian artists known as the Skagen Painters, as well as Amsterdam to see the many masterpieces there, before heading to Kinderdijk to see the enchanting windmills of Holland.

The sights and tastes of Germany along its riverways

In Germany, Cologne’s gorgeous cathedral and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress are sights you will not want to skip. A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the gorgeous Middle Rhine should really be high on your list, with stunning old forts, breathtaking churches, picturesque towns, and rich history. Explore France’s multicultural Strasbourg and Germany’s legendary Black Forest before stopping in cultured Basel. Being on board is enjoyable and engaging, and your excursions should be the same. Dive right into the one-of-a-kind aspects of each intriguing destination along the way. Just as each cruise vessel is made to be a distinctive and one-of-a-kind experience, each destination is similarly unique and special.