River cruises have become more than simply an elegant way to see Europe; they’ve also become popular as themed voyages. While some are exclusive, Abercrombie & Kent’s 11-day Rhine “Art & Architecture” sailing provides access for all passengers onboard.
Oenophiles can enjoy wine-themed cruises, while golfers can take advantage of concierge golf programs on select itineraries. And for the holidays, families can experience festive river cruise itineraries featuring Oompah music and traditional German holiday markets.
Impressionism 
Impressionist art and wine feature prominently on many river cruise itineraries, as do a host of cultural delights. Avalon Waterways provides tours to Normandy featuring experts who present lectures about topics including World War II history, Jewish heritage and Impressionist art.
Uniworld also provides river cruise itineraries that explore Bordeaux and the Rhone Valley (in addition to smaller waters in Provence and Burgundy). Wine lovers will delight in sipping Cotes du Rhone wines grown where grapes were first planted, visiting impressionist painter Claude Monet’s home and gardens, and viewing Rouen’s medieval fortress as they cruise this river cruise route.
On the Danube, family-owned Teeming River Cruises specializes in local culture with their city tour app and all-inclusive fare that includes meals aboard their ships – as well as marionette shows or goulash-making competitions for Adventurers! Other lines offer live music and comedy acts; Avalon features both Dixieland jazz performers as well as old-timey music hall acts; their European cruise itineraries also include performances by Royal Philharmonic Orchestra!
Beer
Before the advent of railroads and highways, river ports were Europe’s primary means of transport. Now river cruises pass through scenic landscapes dotted with gothic castles, charming villages, and award-winning vineyards – making for unforgettable voyages!
Wine enthusiasts will delight in one of our Celebration of Wine cruises featuring an expert Master of Wine who hosts lectures and tastings, offers vineyard tours, and creates a personalized food and wine pairing menu onboard. Avalon Waterways Master of Wines bring their exceptional expertise, unsurpassed knowledge and personal passion to each sailing journey they lead.
River cruises give you plenty of time to immerse yourself in the art, culture, history and cuisine of any given destination while traveling at a comfortable pace. River cruising offers an intimate yet enriching way to discover Europe.
Wine 
River Cruises provide the ideal way to experience Europe’s picturesque landscapes, charming villages and historic cities in comfort – along with a delicious culinary journey on luxurious yet intimate ships.
Sip Cotes du Rhone wines along the Rhone or Saone rivers in France, where vineyards amidst lavender fields and haystacks have inspired great artists like Paul Cezanne and Vincent Van Gogh. Or set sail on our Majestic Rivers of Europe Wine Cruise through scenic Germany, Austria and Hungary and view iconic attractions like Cologne Cathedral Town (Wurzburg Cathedral Town) as well as medieval castles on Rhine banks – iconic attractions that may inspire your next masterpiece!
On select European Wine Immersion cruises, a Master of Wine travels alongside to host lectures and tastings aboard your cruise, as well as accompany you on tours of vineyards and cellars. It is an invaluable opportunity for wine enthusiasts to learn from experts while engaging with their passion.
Art
European river cruises provide the ultimate escape for those looking for something a bit out of the ordinary, offering special-interest itineraries with something for everyone – Tauck River Cruises are particularly geared toward luxury travelers; their itineraries feature VIP access and personalized cultural programs created just for their guests.
Europe is filled with art; from opera houses and galleries in Vienna to lavish royal palaces; Budapest’s Hungarian Parliament Building is especially stunning at night; in France’s South-west corner you’ll find lavender fields and haystacks that inspired Claude Monet while sailing the Seine through Giverny or exploring medieval streets like Rouen where Joan of Arc was executed.
On Scenic’s Colors of Provence and Essence of Burgundy cruises, an experienced Master of Wine sails with you to share their extensive knowledge of wines with an unmatched personal passion for them. Avalon Waterways features an onboard expert for their Celebration of Wine cruises who leads discussions and tastings during select shore excursions and coordinates a wine pairing dinner for every sailing.
