Riviera Travel Adds Festive and Gastronomy Cruises in 2026

Next year, Riviera Travel will bolster its roster of itineraries with a range of festive cruises visiting Christmas markets along the Seine, Rhine and Danube rivers, and three eight-day gastronomy-themed itineraries plying the waters of the Rhine, Moselle and Seine rivers.

The new festive cruise lineup includes the five-day “Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise,” roundtrip from Paris; the “Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise,” roundtrip from Cologne; and the seven-day “Christmas on the Danube,” roundtrip from Budapest.

“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,” the company said.

The culinary itineraries include “Gastronomy of the Danube” cruise exploring ports in Hungary, Slovakia and Austria, with 15 excursions, which include apple strudel samplings at Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, wine tastings in the Wachau Valley and visits to Budapest’s markets. Departure dates are available between April and October.

The “Gastronomy of the Rhine & Moselle” itinerary will boast “11 experiences to discover the rich history and culture of Germany,” Riviera Travel said, with tastings in Bernkastel, Rudesheim and the Koblenz Sparkling Wine Museum. Departures are available between April and August.

The “Gastronomy of the Seine” cruise will delve into the culinary offerings in Normandy, and, in all, include 13 experiences, including macaron tastings in Paris, wine and cheese pairings at Chateau de Bizy and an onboard tarte tatin cooking demonstration. Departures are available from April through October 2026.

“For four decades, Riviera has led the industry in immersive travel, creating unforgettable journeys through expertly crafted itineraries,” said Stuart Milan, Riviera Travel’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.”

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