Riviera Travel Launches Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise for 2026, Along with New Gastronomy Themed Itineraries

Travelers Can Now Explore Christmas Markets Along the Rhine, Danube and Seine; Three Unique Culinary Experiences Across Europe Also Now Open for Booking

 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – (March 28, 2025) – Riviera Travel, the leader in ultra-premium land and cruise global travel for over 40 years, has expanded its 2026 offerings with the introduction of a new festive cruise and new themed itineraries. Festive sailings are now available along the Seine, Rhine and Danube, with visits to charming Christmas markets, and three distinctive new culinary-focused journeys will immerse travelers in the unique flavors and hidden gems of Europe.

 

“For four decades, Riviera has led the industry in immersive travel, creating unforgettable journeys through expertly crafted itineraries,” said Stuart Milan, the brand’s president of North America. “Our expanded 2026 portfolio offers unmatched experiences that showcase the beauty of Europe during the holiday season, while providing travelers who have a taste for the finest global food and wine a unique new way to explore Europe’s legendary river destinations.”

 

From Christmas markets in Paris to exclusive wine tastings in renowned grape-growing regions, Riviera Travel’s new 2026 river cruise itineraries offer a blend of culture, history, and indulgence for every type of traveler:

 

2026 Festive Cruises

Among the new offerings is the Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise, a five-day voyage aboard the five-star MS Jane Austen, departing round-trip from Paris. This itinerary blends Christmas cheer and the timeless elegance of France, featuring visits to historic country estates adorned with seasonal decorations, tours of Bizy Castle with an immersive tasting experience, and explorations of three magnificent French châteaux, each with its own yuletide twist. Guests will enjoy a private evening organ concert at Vernon Cathedral and discover the charming Christmas markets of Paris amidst twinkling lights and winter landscapes. While onboard, guests will experience the pinnacle of luxury, including spacious accommodations with a window or French balcony, five-star dining with a Chef’s dinner, an all-inclusive drinks package, and access to an expert Riviera cruise director and concierge team. This new itinerary will sail exclusively in December 2026 and starts at $1,749 per person.

 

Riviera Travel’s coveted collection of five-star festive cruises includes the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise and Christmas on the Danube. As an industry leader in solo travel, the brand also offers dedicated festive itineraries with no single supplement across all cabins, such as The Danube’s Imperial Cities and Yuletide Markets River Cruise and the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise. Riviera’s elevated portfolio of river cruise departures explores an array of charming destinations across Europe, with land excursions in iconic Christmas markets such as Budapest, Rüdesheim, Cologne, Vienna, and now Paris.   

 

2026 Themed Cruises

Riviera Travel is also now offering an expanded collection of gastronomy-themed cruises, continuing the brand’s commitment to immersing U.S. travelers in Europe’s best culinary experiences. In addition to its already diverse portfolio of themed departures, the following itineraries are now available to book for 2026:

•       Gastronomy of the Danube – An eight-day itinerary through Hungary, Slovakia and Austria, featuring 15 immersive land experiences, including sampling apple strudel at Schönbrunn Palace, tasting the wines of the world-renowned wine region of Wachau Valley, and exploring the markets of Budapest, and more. Starting at $3,399 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April 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 the region with tastings in Bernkastel, Rudesheim, and at the Koblenz Wine and Sparkling Wine Museum, starting at $3,649 per person and sailing between April and August 2026.

 

•       Gastronomy of the Seine — Travelers can discover Normandy’s culinary delights on this new eight-day itinerary, featuring 13 immersive experiences such as macaron tastings in Paris, wine and cheese pairings at Bizy Chateau and a tarte tarin cooking demonstration onboard. Starting at $2,799 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April through October 2026.

 

For information or to book a river cruise, call 888-838-8820, email info@rivieratravel.com,

or visit RivieraRiverCruises.com. Stay up-to-date on the latest news by following the company on Facebook Facebook.com/RivieraTravelUSA, Instagram @Rivieratravelusa, and LinkedIn.

 

 

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 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.