Not sure which river cruise itinerary to choose?
A 15-day trip from Amsterdam to Budapest is by far the most popular itinerary, and the one I usually recommend for first-time river cruisers. It offers spectacular scenery and visits some of Europe’s most important cities.
Another popular choice is the Rhine, a 7-night cruise from Amsterdam to Basel.
If you’ve already done a European river cruise, you’ll want to consider the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia for your next trip.
Magnificent Europe
A truly grand cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest through the heart of Europe and across the Continental Divide.
Follow the route of emperors and kings on a “Magnificent” European journey along three great rivers through five fascinating countries!
Begin in Amsterdam, then travel on the Rhine to Cologne, a historic university town with a breathtaking Cathedral. Cruise through the beautiful Rhine Gorge and then onto the Main River. Marvel at the Main-Danube Canal – an engineering masterpiece – as you traverse Europe’s Continental Divide from the comfort of your ship.
Discover the culture and traditions of such grand old capitals as Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Along the way, you’ll see perfectly preserved medieval towns and Europe’s loveliest countryside, filled with ancient abbeys and fairytale castles.
The Enchanting Rhine
Amsterdam to Basel (or reverse).
Begin in the legendary city of Amsterdam, with its myriad canals and distinctive architecture.
Visit the majestic Gothic cathedral in Cologne, the German university town of Heidelberg and medieval Strasbourg.
Conclude your journey amidst Switzerland’s snow-capped vistas, with a scenic lake cruise and souvenir shopping in two cosmopolitan cities, Lucerne and Zurich.
The Mekong
Your journey begins in Vietnam’s bustling capital, Hanoi, followed by an excursion to breathtaking Ha Long Bay for an overnight sojourn.
A short flight to Siem Reap, Cambodia, brings you to the gateway of the ancient Khmer empire. Spend three days touring the temples of Angkor Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before embarking your 7-night Mekong cruise on Tonle Sap Lake.
Visit rural villages, historic pagodas, floating markets and a Buddhist monastery along the way.
Overnight in Phnom Phen, capital of Cambodia. Conclude your cruise in lively Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon).
Sue Bradley
