
River Cruises
Glühwein, twinkling markets, and Europe's rivers in winter magic
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with a magical European river cruise, where glittering Christmas markets, snow-dusted villages and enchanting winter landscapes create a festive escape like no other. Glide along Europe’s iconic waterways, discovering charming riverside towns, beautifully illuminated streets and centuries-old traditions, while indulging in seasonal delicacies, warming Glühwein and the timeless charm of Christmas. As the year draws to a close, welcome the New Year in spectacular style with dazzling celebrations, unforgettable scenery and the warmth of European hospitality.
Discover the enchanting romance of the Rhine River during the festive season, where medieval castles, picturesque villages and historic cities sparkle beneath a canopy of Christmas lights. Wander through Cologne’s famous Christmas markets, savour traditional treats in charming Rüdesheim and explore the fairytale streets of Strasbourg, where Alsatian traditions create an unforgettable festive atmosphere. From the magic of the Advent markets to spectacular New Year celebrations, a Rhine river cruise is a wonderful way to experience the timeless beauty of Germany and France in winter.
Experience the festive splendour of the Danube River, journeying through the heart of Central Europe as grand imperial cities and charming riverside towns embrace the magic of the holiday season. Discover Vienna’s elegant Christmas markets, admire Budapest’s illuminated architecture and wander through Bratislava’s historic streets, where traditional delicacies, handcrafted gifts and seasonal celebrations await. Whether enjoying a magical Christmas voyage or raising a glass to the New Year against a backdrop of spectacular city lights, a Danube cruise promises a truly memorable European escape.
Journey along the Main River and discover the enchanting charm of Germany’s historic heartland, where storybook towns, medieval architecture and festive market squares capture the spirit of a traditional European Christmas. Explore Frankfurt’s lively Christmas markets, admire the historic beauty of Würzburg and uncover the captivating heritage of towns such as Bamberg, where cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved buildings create a magical winter setting. Often combined with Rhine River itineraries, a Main River cruise offers a delightful opportunity to discover Germany’s rich traditions, savour seasonal specialities and embrace the warmth and wonder of the festive season.
Make this festive season truly unforgettable with a European river cruise filled with enchanting Christmas traditions, breathtaking winter scenery and joyful New Year celebrations. From the romantic Rhine to the historic Main and the magnificent Danube, discover the magic of Europe at its most wonderful time of year.
Late November – early January

Baroque palaces, fairy-tale castles, and the romantic Rhine & Danube

Tulip fields, medieval canals, and the Low Countries by water

Châteaux, vineyards, and Provence — France at its most unhurried

Budapest, the Danube Bend, and the jewel of Central Europe

Ancient rivers, sun-drenched valleys, and coastal waterways

Canals, lochs, and the waterways of Britain and Ireland
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Düsseldorf, Koblenz, Mainz, Rüdesheim, Cologne, Düsseldorf

Strasbourg, Speyer, Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Cologne

Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Speyer, Strasbourg

Cologne, Rüdesheim, Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, Cologne

Passau, Vienna, Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, Passau

Passau, Melk, Vienna, Bratislava, Passau

Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Emmersdorf an der Donau, Vienna

Vienna, Emmersdorf an der Donau, Passau, Regensburg, Roth, Nuremberg

Nuremburg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Wertheim, Miltenberg, Frankfurt, Mainz, Manheim, Speyer, Strasbourg

Passau, Linz, Emmersdorf an der Donau, Dürnstein, Vienna, Bratislava, Linz, Passau

Cologne, Koblenz, Speyer, Strasbourg, Mainz, Cologne

Passau, Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, Emmersdorf an der Donau, Passau

Plobsheim, Strasbourg, Souffelweyersheim, Brumath, Waltenheim-sur-Zorn, Hochfelden

Düsseldorf, Koblenz, Mannheim, Strasbourg, Speyer, Mainz, Rüdesheim, Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf

Vienna, Melk, Dürnstein, Budapest, Esztergom, Bratislava, Vienna

Cologne, Mainz, Strasbourg, Basel, Mannheim, Koblenz, Cologne

Cologne, Rüdesheim, Speyer, Frankfurt, Mainz, Koblenz, Bonn, Cologne

Passau, Budapest, Vienna, Dürnstein, Linz, Passau