Soak up the beauty of the European waterways in 2026 (Image: Riviera Travel)
Riviera Travel is offering up to 20% off its 2026 European river cruises, giving travellers the chance to explore iconic waterways such as the Rh么ne, Danube and Rhine in comfort and style. Guests can enjoy a blend of culture, relaxation and adventure, with expert guides, excursions and hotel stays included.
Riviera鈥檚 river cruises are ideal for those wanting to visit multiple destinations in one holiday, taking in everything from cultural landmarks to stunning landscapes while staying in luxury accommodation on the water. The sale is live now, with bookings open until January 30, with deposits starting from just 拢19 per person. All cruises benefit from full ATOL protection and with a ‘Price Promise’ in place passengers can be assured that they have snapped up a luxury river cruise for less.
Another option is a Rhine Cruise to Switzerland. (Image: Riviera Travel)
Each cruise is meticulously planned to strike a balance between relaxation and exploration, allowing travellers to discover multiple destinations whilst enjoying onboard luxury.
Inclusive of direct flights and transfers, full board dining with chef’s dinners, complimentary Wi-Fi, evening entertainment, and access to spa and wellness facilities, Riviera’s cruises promise a comprehensive travel experience. Every journey is also backed by a Riviera Cruise Director, expert guides and round-the-clock UK-based support, according to the company.
The first option available is The Blue Danube River Cruise, with prices starting at 拢1,899 per person for an eight-day trip. Travellers can immerse themselves in the culture and scenery of Europe on a Danube river cruise, passing through baroque towns, medieval cities, and picturesque villages, reports the Daily Record.聽
The cruise commences in Budapest, before setting sail to Esztergom, where passengers can explore the Basilica and historic centre. The voyage then proceeds to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, before traversing Lower Austria with stops at D眉rnstein and Melk Abbey.
An optional scenic drive to Salzburg from Linz is also on offer, allowing travellers to discover the old town and its historical landmarks. In Vienna, guests can take in the city’s main cultural attractions before the cruise concludes back in Budapest, where the Parliament Building and Castle Hill await exploration.
Included in the package are seven nights aboard a five-star ship, return flights and transfers, full board dining, complimentary tea and coffee onboard, Wi-Fi, and the guidance of an onboard Cruise Director. A series of guided tours are also part of the itinerary, featuring visits to Esztergom Basilica, Bratislava’s old town, D眉rnstein, Melk Abbey, Linz or Salzburg, Vienna’s key sights, and Budapest.
Alternatively, there’s the Burgundy, River Rh么ne and Provence River Cruise priced at 拢1,849 per person for eight days. This journey navigates through one of France’s most picturesque regions, from the stunning vineyards to the rolling hills of Provence and the medieval allure of Avignon.
All of the cruises have been rated highly by travellers. (Image: Riviera Travel)
The route follows the Sa么ne and Rh么ne rivers, historic pathways that unveil Roman monuments, enchanting towns, and awe-inspiring landscapes.
On this journey, travellers will have the opportunity to visit Lyon and Beaune, including the magnificent H么tel-Dieu, explore Vienne, sample Rh么ne Valley wines at Tain l’Hermitage, and marvel at the Roman amphitheatre in Arles and the Pont du Gard aqueduct. In Avignon, guests can explore the Papal Palace and its collection of Renaissance art.
The package includes a seven-night stay on a five-star ship, return flights and transfers, full board dining, complimentary Wi-Fi and drinks, and guidance from an expert Cruise Director. Guests can partake in guided tours of Lyon, Beaune, Vienne, Arles, Tain l’Hermitage, Avignon, and the Ard猫che Gorges.
Alternatively, there’s the Rhine Cruise to Switzerland, priced at 拢1,899 per person for eight days. This cruise sails along the enchanting Rhine River, taking in its quaint towns, the dramatic Rhine Gorge, and the rolling landscapes of Alsace.
The river cruises are a great option for a holiday. (Image: Riviera Travel)
A stop in Strasbourg allows for a walking tour of the old town, and a visit to historic Koblenz at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.
The voyage continues through R眉desheim, medieval Speyer with its Romanesque Basilica, and Freiburg, nestled in the leafy Black Forest. The cruise concludes in Basel, with an excursion into Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland for awe-inspiring Alpine views.
This Swiss river cruise offers an excellent option for those wanting a leisurely way to experience picturesque waterways, charming historical settlements, and stunning Alpine panoramas. The week-long voyage features all-inclusive meals, complimentary beverages, return air travel with transfers, professional assistance from a Cruise Director, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and 10 curated excursions.
Guests can additionally savour onboard performances including live violin recitals and traditional folk entertainment.
Whether it’s a family trip, solo or a couple holiday, there are options for everyone. (Image: Riviera Travel)
Riviera Travel packages have garnered impressive feedback on their platform. Regarding The Rh么ne experience, one traveller commented: “Fantastic! From day one we were treated like VIPs. Even when plans had to change, the representative kept us fully informed and offered alternatives.”
Discussing the Rhine Cruise, another passenger remarked: “Even better than we expected. Also very pleased that provision was made for the gentle walkers, so many don’t. All the staff did their very best to please us and were always happy and pleasant. It was a very good holiday and the food was excellent.”
An alternative to Riviera Travel packages is Six Star Cruises. Their Mediterranean journey, titled ‘Southern European Gems‘, traverses Italy, Spain and Portugal.
The itinerary encompasses Venice, Rijeka, Split, Kotor, Igoumen铆tsa, Gallipoli, Catania, Naples, Civitavecchia and Barcelona. Accommodation starts from 拢2,099 for standard cabins, rising to 拢3,299 for premium options.
Returning to Riviera, naturally, there were a few dissenting voices who docked a star. One such individual penned: “We enjoyed the River Rhine better than the Danube as there was more to see of interest from the ship.”
Another expressed: “Overall excellent, would have been five (stars) but for the couple of exceptions described in the holiday experience.”
However, the majority were left thoroughly impressed. For instance, one passenger on the Blue Danube cruise enthused: “I really enjoyed the cruise. The boat was beautiful and a good size. Not too many people! The crew were friendly and hardworking. The itinerary was very good. The excursions were interesting and the guides were all excellent. I would certainly take another river cruise with this company.”