“Personalize” your river cruise by pairing it with your interests—here’s how

Pretty much every river cruise through Europe promises gorgeous scenery, a relaxed pace, and a refined atmosphere on board. But if you’re struggling to pick which river cruise is best for you, I know exactly where you should start: your own interests.

Certain rivers and river cruise itineraries align really well with particular interests, hobbies, and passions. Choosing the cruise that aligns with your own is an instant way to make your European escape feel unique tailored to you! Below, discover which rivers I recommend you sail down based on your particular interests:

If you love … gardens:

Tulip Time Cruises through the Netherlands and Belgium

For flower lovers, there’s nothing like seeing the masses of kaleidoscopic tulips in full bloom in Holland. “Tulip Time” river cruises that sail along Dutch and Belgian canals and waterways make this possible in the spring, from late March through early April. You’ll be able to explore the tulip and bulb fields as well as (depending on your timing) the magnificent flower displays at Keukenhof Gardens. Itineraries also often include stops in charming Low Country cities like Ghent, Bruges, and Amsterdam.

Runner up: Summertime cruises down the Rhône in Provence to admire the fields of lavender and sunflowers.

If you love … food:

The Rhône River in France

Southeastern France is a veritable feast for foodies—and the Rhône runs right through it all. The markets in the bustling Provencal towns you’ll pass through are simply overflowing with produce and humble, artisan-produced goods. This is red wine and lavender field country, too. Rhône River itineraries typically end in Lyon, considered by many to be the gastronomic capital of France (and that’s really saying something!).

Runner up: Danube River cruises, which also feature spectacular market produce.

If you love … castles:

The Rhine River in Germany and France

The Rhine River Valley has the highest concentration of castles along Europe’s navigable rivers. You’ll sail past—and stop at—centuries-old medieval fortresses and crenelated castles surrounded by vineyards. Your itinerary may give you the option to enjoy an excursion to Burg Rheinstein, a 700-hundred-year-old castle complete with working drawbridge perched high above the river. The Rhine Valley views from here can’t be beat!

If you love … wine:

The Garonne and Dordogne Rivers in France

These two rivers wind their way through the most legendary (and expensive) vineyards in all of France: Bordeaux. You’ll likely embark from the regional capital Bordeaux (which shares its name with the wider region), a cosmopolitan city known for its refined honey-hued buildings. Then you’re off on a whirlwind—and delectable—tour of the sleepy hamlets, imposing chateaux, and medieval villages that dot the vine-covered landscape. Guided visits to wineries allow you to sample some of the famed wines for yourself.

Runner up: The Rhône and Saone Rivers in eastern France that run through the country’s other legendary region beloved by serious wine buffs: Burgundy.

If you love … military history:

The Seine River in France

Sail the Seine through glittering Paris and up into the heart of Normandy in Northern France on a cruise sure to please history buffs. Normandy, of course, played a pivotal role in WWII; you’ll be able to explore the Normandy beaches where the D-Day invasion took place, and visit the fascinating D-Day Museum, during a shore excursion. Beyond your somber Normandy journey, your cruise is also likely to stop in Rouen with its soaring Gothic cathedral and astronomical clock and Giverny, where you can tour Impressionist master Monet’s home and gardens.

Runner up: Sailings on the Elbe River in Germany stop in cities like Berlin, Dresden, Magdeburg, and Torgau, which would also appeal to WWII history buffs.

Ready to start planning your very own river cruise through Europe? I would love to help pair you up with the perfect river cruise for you! Sign up for a complimentary consultation call with me to get started.