River
cruising emerged to introduce an entirely new concept to Europe: that of
floating hotels that journey between destinations.
For many
travelers, the slow chug along the river is just the right pace for getting the
lay of the land. Sitting on the top deck of a ship under brilliant blue skies,
you gaze on fabled landscapes dotted with castles, villages and vineyards. A
flight of stairs down, and you have all the amenities of a modern hotel —
restaurants, bars, lounges, fitness facilities, spas, internet access and
comfortable staterooms.
River cruises
offer opportunities to step ashore in fairy tale towns and fabled cities.
Immerse yourself in contemporary culture, and learn something about the history
of the towns along the Continent’s greatest rivers.
The season
runs March through the end of December, beginning with Tulip Time Cruises in
Benelux countries and ending with Christmas Market Cruises in Hungary, Austria,
and Germany.
The majority
of itineraries are seven nights, though longer cruises are available. Book one
year in advance, if possible, and consider cruising March through May or
September through December, when the crowds are thinner and airfares may be
more reasonably priced than during peak periods.
River
cruising is perfect for those who want a relaxed grand tour of Europe and for
cruisers who want to explore Europe beyond the coastline. River cruising
presents the grandeur and charm of Europe as well as the indelible landscapes
that inspired Europe’s great artists. Few things in life can beat the views of
Europe over the ripples of Continent’s rivers.
Some river
cruisers overnight in ports and cruise during the day; others cruise during the
night and tie up in port during the day. Both approaches allow for dinners
ashore and late-evening strolls into town.
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