TOP 5 RIVER CRUISE ITINERARIES FOR 2020
If you’ve been reading my Blogs you know I’m not a fan of large ocean cruises. However, I fell in love with river cruising…
The experience is truly magical. Imagine spending a week on a luxury boutique hotel, gliding on European rivers and docking each day at the most charming towns and villages. Below are some highlights of why river cruising is so special. And then I share with you the top itineraries for 2020…
WHY RIVER CRUISING IS SO SPECIAL…
The experience is very intimate and service is extraordinary. On average these cruise ships carry only 150 passengers.
You’ll spend full days, and sometimes overnight, in the towns you’re visiting. So you get to enjoy local shopping, drinks, food, and even the nightlife in these charming villages.
The gourmet dining experiences on these river cruises is fantastic. Exquisite meals are paired with wines from the region in which you’re sailing (no midnight buffets on the rivers!).
Unique excursions are included so you can select what works best for you… you’ll have options such as hiking, biking, wine tastings, walking tours, etc…
TOP ITINERARIES FOR 2020…
BORDEAUX
Spend a week exploring one of the most famous wine regions in the world. France’s breathtaking landscape leads you to exploring castles, wines and cultural treasures across the Bordeaux region. Wine tastings, village tours, and visits to farmers’ markets will fill your days.
BURGUNDY & PROVENCE
Sail along France’s beautiful countryside enjoying the region’s incomparable wine and local cuisine. In Provence, explore French villages with local markets, visit olive groves, Roman ruins and a papal palace. For those looking for more activity, you can kayak on the Gardon River. Enjoy biking through Lyon and learning all about Burgundy wines.
CASTLES ALONG THE RHINE
Cruising along the Rhine you’ll have Germany on one side and France on the other. Marvel at castles and medieval cathedrals that line the river on both sides. Visit historic cities, including ancient Cologne and picturesque Strasbourg; stroll through the fairytale town of Rüdesheim (this was my personal favorite on this sailing); and taste delightful wines in the villages where the grapes are grown.
ENCHANTING DANUBE
Immerse yourself in the culture of four spectacular countries… Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Enjoy the medieval city of Passau, stroll of streets of Vienna known as the great capital of music, and explore Budapest with one of the walking tours included with your cruise. During the month of December, this sailing is perfect for enjoying the Christmas markets as they light up these magnificent cities.
DOURO RIVER VALLEY
Linking Spain and Portugal, the Douro River is best known for its winemaking region. The Douro River Valley is a UNESCO world heritage site. Discover the history of this magnificent region as you glide along from Porto to the tiny villages along the river valley. Visit port houses and enjoy tours and tastings. The dramatic scenery here is perfect for hiking through vineyards with your local guide.
No matter which itinerary you choose, we help match you to the right river cruise line. Then we design your pre and/or post cruise stay for a perfect vacation experience.
Click here to download a comparative chart of the top river cruise lines. They all sail the same rivers but offer very different experiences.
I would be honored to help plan your European river cruise. Contact me for your complimentary consultation.
