Festive & Culinary Cruises Across Europe
Next year, Riviera Travel is set to captivate travelers with an expanded roster of itineraries that showcase the best of Europe’s holiday charm and culinary delights. The company is introducing a range of festive cruises that take guests to iconic Christmas markets along the Seine, Rhine, and Danube rivers, as well as three eight-day gastronomy-themed itineraries exploring the rich flavors and traditions found on the Rhine, Moselle, and Seine. This innovative portfolio aims to provide an immersive travel experience, combining the magic of the festive season with the pleasures of fine dining and cultural exploration.
The new festive cruise lineup features three distinct journeys. Guests can embark on a five-day Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise, a roundtrip departure from Paris that promises enchanting views of the city’s illuminated landmarks and bustling holiday markets. Another option, the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise, offers a roundtrip departure from Cologne, giving travelers the chance to visit some of the region’s most renowned Christmas markets steeped in centuries of tradition. Additionally, the seven-day Christmas on the Danube cruise departs roundtrip from Budapest, providing a unique opportunity to experience festive celebrations along one of Europe’s most storied rivers.
Riviera Travel’s announcement emphasizes the company’s commitment to creating memorable journeys through carefully curated itineraries. By selecting classic destinations such as Budapest, Rüdesheim, Cologne, Vienna, and now Paris, the travel expert ensures that every cruise is infused with the authentic spirit of the holiday season. The blend of cultural excursions and seasonal festivities is designed to deliver a travel experience that resonates with both long-time cruisers and new adventurers seeking a taste of Europe’s winter wonderland.
In addition to the festive cruises, Riviera Travel is launching three culinary itineraries that promise to delight food enthusiasts. The Gastronomy of the Danube cruise offers guests a chance to explore ports in Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, featuring 15 immersive excursions. Highlights include apple strudel samplings at Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, wine tastings in the picturesque Wachau Valley, and visits to bustling markets in Budapest. Departures for this culinary journey are available from April through October, providing flexible options for travelers.
Another gastronomic adventure, the Gastronomy of the Rhine & Moselle itinerary, boasts 11 experiences that delve into Germany’s rich cultural heritage. Guests will enjoy tastings in Bernkastel and Rüdesheim, along with a visit to the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum, all designed to reveal the depth and history of the region’s winemaking traditions. Departures for this itinerary are available between April and August. The third culinary option, the Gastronomy of the Seine cruise, invites travelers to discover Normandy’s culinary treasures. This itinerary features 13 experiences, including macaron tastings in Paris, wine and cheese pairings at Chateau de Bizy, and an onboard tarte tatin cooking demonstration, with departures available from April through October 2026.
For over four decades, Riviera Travel has been a leader in immersive travel, and the expanded 2026 portfolio reflects its dedication to offering unique and unforgettable experiences. Stuart Milan, president of North America at Riviera Travel, explained that the new itineraries provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore Europe’s legendary river destinations during the festive season while indulging in the finest food and wine experiences. This comprehensive blend of culture, celebration, and cuisine is set to attract travelers from around the globe, ensuring that each journey is as enchanting as it is delicious.
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