Here it is:
A Guide to European River Cruises in 2023: History, Scenery, and More !
Cruise Snitch •
Onique Campbell
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A Guide to European River Cruises in 2023: History, Scenery, and More
That's why we've created this guide to help you navigate the journey ahead, from choosing your itinerary to packing essentials and everything in between. Get ready to experience the magic of Europe on a river cruise in 2023.
Choose Your Topic:
- Selecting the Right Cruise: Consider the length of the trip, your destination preferences, and what activities you would like to enjoy during your cruise.
- Picking a Cruise Line: Research which cruise lines best fit your needs and budget by reading reviews, watching videos, and comparing prices.
- Planning Travel to and from the Cruise: Book flights and/or public transportation travel to your departure and return ports in advance.
- Arranging Accommodation Before/After Your Cruise: Consider where to stay beforehand and arrange hotel or Airbnb accommodations.
- Cruising Alongside Historical Sites and Cities: Visiting iconic sites, castles, and small towns is part of the joy of river cruising!
- Experiencing Different Local Cuisines: Traditional dishes and drinks vary from country to country in Europe, giving you the opportunity to try something new every day.
- Exploring Nature Abroad: Europe has some of the world’s most diverse landscape and wildlife, all of which you can enjoy on a river cruise.
- Excursions and Shore Trips: Pick and choose activities to suit your interests and itinerary, from biking tours and hikes to city tours and winery visits.
- Choosing Your On-board Amenities: On-board activities, décor, and amenities vary between cruise lines, so research ahead of time and choose accordingly.
- Budgeting and Booking: Compare prices between cruise lines and specials, and reserve your spot so you don’t risk missing out!
What are the top European river cruise itineraries for history buffs?
- Tuscany and Umbria, Italy: This itinerary follows the Arno and Tiber rivers, visiting the Etruscan and Roman sites of Tuscany, including the Etruscan-Roman port of Cosa, and the renaissance city of Florence.
- Loire Valley, France: Cruise the Loire River and meander through the pastoral countryside, stopping by the villages of Sully-sur-Loire and Chaumont-sur-Loire to explore their ancient castles and Medieval walled towns.
- Danube Delta, Romania: Explore Romania’s hidden gems, from the port city of Tulcea to the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve. Wake up surrounded by a wildlife refuge, with over 300 species of birds, floating through the natural habitats of aquatic mammals, snakes, and fish.
- Rhine and Moselle, Germany: Cruise the Rhine and Moselle rivers past picturesque castles, charming towns, and vine-covered hills. Visit the Black Forest and Mainz, Germany, and the towns of Monschau and Cochem, each with its own storied history.
- The Douro River, Portugal: Get a taste of Portugal’s remarkably diverse culture, with visits to the port cities of Porto, Vila Nova de Gaia, and Régua. Take a traditional Portuguese river gondola ride, and explore the vineyards that lead to the Douro Valley.
- Greece’s Waterways: Take a classic cruise from Athens to the Mediterranean outposts of Poros, Hydra and Aegina, before visiting the staggeringly beautiful archipelago of the Saronic Islands. Stop by the ancient ruins of classical Greece, including that of the storied Temple of Apollo in Delphi.
How can you make the most of shore excursions during a European river cruise?
- Research before departure: It's always best to research shore excursions ahead of your trip so you can find out which tours are available and their cost. This way, you can tailor the excursions to your interests and budget.
- Try something new: Don't just stick to the basics - expand your horizons and explore European life by taking the time to try a new activity or explore a little-known village.
- Take a tour guide: If a guided tour is an option for your excursion, it's often worth investing in. Not only will you get to visit the usual landmarks, but also learn about their history from a local expert.
- Bring along a camera: As the saying goes, 'a picture paints a thousand words'; make sure you capture some great memories from your trip by bringing along a camera or phone to take photos.
- Take the time to explore: You don't have to rush your excursions. Take time to savour the atmosphere and visit interesting stores or cafes you find along the way.
- Soak in your surroundings: Take the time to take in views, sounds and smells of the places you visit - they're all part of your European river cruise experience.
- Participate in events: Local markets and folk festivals, whatever is going on during your cruise, try to take the time to enjoy it and join in - this will add to your unique experience of the destination.
- Buy souvenirs: Stocking up on local specialities and trinkets not only gives you a memento of your trip but also helps local businesses, who will appreciate the custom.
- Network: Squeeze in a bit of networking by meeting locals or other travellers on board the ship or during a port call.
- Have fun: Finally, if you can afford it, why not indulge a bit and treat yourself to something special? That could be anything from high tea in a castle or a spa treatment during your port call. Enjoy!
What should you know about onboard dining and entertainment options on a European river cruise?
- Available Cuisines: Most European river cruises offer cuisine from all over the world, ranging from traditional European dishes to vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options.
- Onboard Entertainment: Many European river cruise lines offer a variety of onboard entertainment activities, including onboard lectures, cooking classes, wine tastings, and nightly music performances.
- Open Bars: Most European river cruise lines also offer open bars where passengers can enjoy cocktails and light snacks throughout the day.
- Excursions: Most river cruises offer shore excursions that allow passengers to experience the best of the local culture and attractions.
- Special Menus: Passengers can often request special menus to suit their dietary needs or preferences.
- All Inclusive: Most cruises offer all-inclusive packages that include meals, drinks, and onboard entertainment activities.
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