What goes together better than water and travel? Combining the two can easily be done these days by taking a river cruise in various parts of the world. From your room or balcony, you can experience history, nature, and beauty. Stops along the way allow you time to stretch your legs and explore as well. Skip the trains, cars, and planes for a while and enjoy the romance of a river cruise.
Here are seven river cruises to add to your to-do travel list.
Danube River Cruise
History and beauty greet you at every bend in the Danube River. As Europe’s second-longest river, the Danube meanders through nine countries, including Austria, Germany, Hungary, and seven different countries in Central or Eastern Europe. You choose which part of the river you wish to cruise, and also the number of days. You’ll see castles, fortresses, medieval towns, and monasteries. Cruise through Vienna, known as The City of Music, or take in the peaks and gorges of Romania.
Yangtze River Cruise
One of the longest rivers in the world, The Yangtze River strings together several of China’s historic cities and sites. Take in the stunning natural scenery and the steep Three Gorges as well as ancient temples and centuries-old pagodas. Step on to the shores to experience Fengdu, the “ghost city,” and other historical sites.
Nile River Cruise
Whether you are fascinated by the Great Pyramids or of Cleopatra herself, a cruise on the Nile River can harken you back in time. See the Sphinx, the pyramids, and historical ports, as well as what now has become modern cities in Egypt along the world’s longest river.
Po River Cruise
Cruise along the Po river in Northern Italy for a spectacular tour of the gems held there. From the history of Milan and da Vinci’s famous “The Last Supper” to Verona, known for Shakespeare’s tale of love of Romeo and Juliet. Next, it is on to The Floating City of Venice, where you can explore by way of the infamous gondolas or by foot.
Mekong River Cruise
Explore the lesser-known cultures of Vietnam and Cambodia with a cruise on the Mekong River. Visit temples, royal residences, a French gothic church, thatched-roof villages, and floating fish markets. As for nature, enjoy the scenery of bamboo jungles and rice fields.
Douro River Cruise
The Douro River will take you through Portugal and Spain, providing spectacular views and experiences. Visit medieval dockyards, cathedrals, castles, villages, and vineyards. If you plan your trip for September, you may also see the barefooted grape-stomping.
Seine River Cruise
If you’re looking for a more concentrated location for a river cruise, then you’ll want to cruise the Seine River. This cruise provides ample time to explore Paris, then on to Impressionist Claude Monet’s Giverny before reaching Rouen, where a side trip to the beaches of Normandy is available.
Isn’t it time to add at least one of these river cruises to your to-do travel list?
