The fact that it’s Cruise Week got me thinking just how perfect a river cruise is when it comes to spending a week away. Not least because there is a good choice of itineraries available which are around a week long. You’ll arrive directly into each port of call so you’ll be able to explore right away and pack more into your week and of course, it’s just enough time to work your way through your delicious on-board menu. Here’s a look at seven different things you can enjoy on your week-long river cruise.
World-famous cities
A great way to think of a river cruise is that it’s like a series of city breaks – the type of ones where you’ve booked a few excursions, too – and where your accommodation is a floating hotel with all the amenities you’d expect and perhaps a few you wouldn’t. Amsterdam, Paris, Vienna, Budapest, and Cologne are just some of the world-famous cities you can explore on a river cruise.
Stunning architecture
Of course, if there’s one thing to experience in all those cities, it’s the amazing architecture that they showcase. For fans of everything from churches rich in Gothic splendour to eye-catching modernist works, a river cruise is the perfect choice. Cologne’s majestic cathedral, Budapest’s splendid parliament building, Paris’ celebrated Louvre and Melk’s magnificent abbey are all yours to explore.
Stunning scenery
It’s not all about the cities on a river cruise though. While it’s true you’ll spend a lot of time in port exploring, you’ll also have time to appreciate beautiful scenery too. The Rhine Valley’s reputation for beauty goes before it and a river cruise along the Rhone through Provence will give you the chance to see the stunning lavender fields. There’s also a chance for that perfect Dutch windmill photo opportunity in Kinderdijk if you choose a sailing along the Dutch and Belgian waterways.
Local culture
You’ll certainly have plenty of opportunity to learn about the historic buildings in the cities you visit, as well as the people and events which shaped them. However, many river cruises also offer you chances to explore further inland and visit historic towns and fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as former papal palaces and homes of key historic figures. On some itineraries, you’ll continue the experience back on-board thanks to enriching talks and lectures from experts in their field.
Local markets
Fresh produce is a good way to get a literal taste for each destination you arrive in and many of the places you visit are famous for their local markets. There’s also plenty of opportunity to pick up an original souvenir or three. A German Christmas Markets cruise is the perfect example and it really is something special to soak up the Yuletide cheer as you visit some of the world’s most renowned festive fayres.
Fine food
After a long day seeing the sights, what could be better than mouth-watering three-course meal before you retire for the evening? With a river cruise, it’s all part of the experience and all included in the price you pay. Each night, you’ll choose from a delectable and creative menu, often reflecting the local cuisine of your port of call for the day and made using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Fine wine
Fine food is complimented by fine wine and no matter which itinerary or line you choose, you’ll have the opportunity to make a good vintage part of the occasion as there’s always a good selection of wines offered during and indeed after dinner. If you’re cruising in France, Germany or Portugal however, then it doesn’t end there. River cruises in both countries pass through some of their most celebrated wine-growing regions, so a comprehensive choice of river cruise excursions will give you plenty of opportunities to visit wineries and vineyards.
We always have an excellent selection of sailings available at RiverVoyages.com so to book your perfect escape and experience everything that makes river cruising great, take a look at our latest deals and give our expert River Cruise Concierge a call on 0800 197 0854.
