Depth of Discovery: River Cruise Itineraries Truly Redefining Immersive Travel in 2025

 

January 27th, 2025 – According to Forbes.com, the second most prevalent trend driving luxury travel in 2025 is cultural and culinary immersion. Riviera Travel, the UK’s largest river cruise and tour operator for more than 40 years, is setting the standard for immersive travel with new itineraries that defy the depths of discovery. Widely known for its themed cruises, upscale dining experiences and thoughtfully crafted excursions, the brand now offers additional departures geared toward showcasing Europe’s best hidden-gem destinations and culinary delicacies.

 

These new itineraries include:

•       Grand Cruise of France — This 15-day itinerary along the Seine, Saône and Rhône takes in the very best of France’s multi-faceted culture, highlighting historic cities, breathtaking architecture, and picturesque countryside landscapes.

Offering 20 immersive land experiences, guests can follow the path that has been favored by traders and invaders since ancient times. Some of the highlights include the amphitheater at Arles, the impressive Pont Du Gard aqueduct, the Papal Palace of Avignon, and the D-Day beaches of Normandy. In addition to seeing the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Pompidou Centre, guests will explore Provence, where Van Gogh created some of his best-loved works of art, as well as Giverny, where they’ll visit Claude Monet’s home and one of the world’s most famous gardens.

There’s no shortage of natural beauty as the ship sails from culture-filled cities to medieval towns, allowing guests to soak up the scenery of green rolling hills and vineyards from the comfort of their luxury river cruise. Starting at $4,029 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April 2026 and October 2026.

•       Gastronomy of the Danube — This eight-day itinerary allows guests to savor the unique flavors of Europe’s most cultured river and dive into the local gastronomic specialties of Hungary, Slovakia and Austria.

 

With 15 immersive land experiences, guests can meet the master bakers at Schönbrunn Palace and sample freshly made apple strudel, taste the wines of the world-renowned wine region of Wachau Valley, explore the markets of Budapest, and more. Starting at $3,399 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April 2026 and October 2026,

 

•       Gastronomy of the Rhine & Moselle — This eight-day itinerary boasts 11 included experiences to discover the rich history and culture of Germany, while indulging in the unique flavors of each region. Ideal for foodies and wine enthusiasts, guests can enjoy the crisp, refreshing notes of the region’s finest wine in Bernkastel, Rudesheim, and at the Koblenz Wine and Sparkling Wine Museum. Starting at $3,649 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April 2026 and August 2026.

 

•       Gastronomy of the Seine — This new eight-day itinerary offers guests breathtaking views of Seine’s historic landscapes while they taste their way through the heart of Normandy. With 13 immersive experiences, guests indulge in macarons in the Latin Quarter of Paris, visit Bizy Chateau to sample expertly paired wines and cheeses, and enjoy a tarte tarin cooking demonstration while onboard. Starting at $2,799 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April 2026 through October 2026.

 

In addition to its new itineraries, Riviera Travel sets itself apart from other river cruise lines by offering itineraries that venture to hidden-gem destinations, delivering truly immersive experiences that redefine river cruising. For example, the 15-day Budapest to the Black Sea itinerary takes guests to the furthest part of the Danube Delta discoverable by land or sea. Other highlights include exploring the sights of Kalocsa and Belgrade, with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress, passing through the Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap locks to visit Bucharest, the capital of Romania, and much more before discovering the imperial capital city of Hungary – Budapest. Starting at $5,499 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between May 2025 and September 2025.

 

About Riviera Travel

 

Riviera Travel is the UK’s largest river cruise and tour operator for more than 40 years, offering a diverse range of luxury travel experiences on land, sea and the rivers. As an ultra-premium river cruise brand, Riviera Travel offers luxurious, memorable sailings aboard its fleet of 13 custom-designed ships, which sail along Europe’s most iconic waterways including the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Seine, and the Dutch Waterways. The company is renowned for its exceptional cruise directors and local guides, immersive itineraries and elegant fleet of ships. Riviera Travel is a leader in the solo travel market with more dedicated solo traveler departures than any other river cruise brand, and is known for its strong partnerships with travel advisors, as well as its commitment to delivering superior service at outstanding value. The fleet’s ships offer a range of amenities, such as a panoramic observation lounge, five-star dining, a spa and wellness area, and a sun deck, creating a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere for travelers exploring Europe’s rivers and landscapes. Riviera Travel consistently earns high ratings for guest satisfaction and value, making it a top choice for discerning travelers seeking memorable river cruise adventures.

 

To learn more or book, travelers are encouraged to speak to a travel advisor and follow the brand on Instagram @RivieraTravelUSA and Facebook at Riviera Travel USA.