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European Gems and Romantic Rhone

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European Gems and Romantic Rhone
European Gems and Romantic Rhone
European Gems and Romantic Rhone
New Release River Cruise
Our Price From
Sold Out
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
21 Days
 Cruise Starts
Lyon
 Cruise Finishes
Budapest
21 Day European Gems and Romantic Rhone Itinerary (Travelmarvel)
Countries Explored: France, Holland, Germany, Austria, Hungary
Ship
Rigel +1
Passengers
182
Crew
44
Launched
2026
Cruise Code
EUTCRV21

Overview

Discover the highlights of Europe on this premium 21-day journey through some of the continent’s most iconic regions. Begin in southern France, where you will board the MS Van Gogh to cruise the Rhône River, exploring the historic cities and picturesque villages of Lyon, Arles and Avignon. Then, continue to Amsterdam and embark on a 14-day river cruise along the romantic Rhine and Danube Rivers, passing through charming German towns and scenic stretches of Slovakia and the Czech Republic before arriving in Vienna and concluding in Budapest, Hungary’s grand capital.

Itinerary

On arrival in Lyon, be transferred to your ship. Explore the impressive social spaces and settle into your suite this evening. Later, enjoy meeting your fellow travellers and dedicated crew at a welcome cocktail reception. Stay Six Nights: MS Van Gogh (D)

This morning, embark on a guided tour of Lyon, a city renowned for its delectable cuisine. Traverse the city and ascend Fourvière Hill to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, affectionately known by locals as the upside-down elephant. Next, visit Vieux Lyon to admire the alluring buildings of the Old Town. Indulge in a tasting at Paul Bocuse's Les Halles de Lyon and savour the best regional fare, including local sausage, cheese, and a glass of wine. Return to the ship and set sail along the Saône River to Collonges-au-Mont-d'Or for a special Insider Experience later this evening. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - French Gastronomic Experience at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges Delight in an authentic French meal at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges. Discover the innovative and unique approach to cuisine that earned Bocuse three Michelin stars. Taste exceptional dishes reflecting the gourmet chef's love for fresh, high-quality ingredients, all meticulously prepared by world-class chefs. Set in a spectacular location, this experience is sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

Arrive in the port of Tain L'Hermitage this morning. Perhaps embark on an optional tour of the Cité du Chocolat. Cruise to the attractive city of Avignon, rich in Provençal character and history. Relish an evening of lively onboard entertainment. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Cité du Chocolat Delve into the world of chocolate on a tour of the Cité du Chocolat. Learn about this popular treat with interactive exhibits and taste samples at the Valrhona Discovery Centre.

Today, set out on a guided tour of Avignon, once an integral centre of the Catholic Church. Visit the medieval Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site along with Avignon's historic city centre. Learn about the palace's history as a fortress, church, and papal residence, and admire its breathtaking architecture. Reboard your ship and continue towards Arles. (B/L/D)

Spend time at leisure today in the beautiful city of Arles, a World Heritage-listed site renowned for its rich collection of ancient Roman relics and remarkable cultural heritage. Perhaps embark on a full-day excursion to the Camargue. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - The Camargue Explore the stunning coastal region of the Camargue, home to diverse flora and fauna. The marshes, ponds, and seashores provide a rich habitat for various species. Visit a traditional manade, a farm where herders train horses and raise cattle, and discover the unique rhythms of life in this wild landscape.

This morning, head out on a guided tour of Viviers, accompanied by an expert. Immerse yourself in the history of this charming city and visit the House of Knights to admire the intricate details of its Renaissance-style façade, despite its title as the smallest cathedral in France. Next, stop at Saint Michel Tower and the Great Seminary before taking in the sensational vista of Viviers from the overlook. After, relax on board as you cruise towards La Voulte-sur-Rhône. Alternatively, join an optional coach tour to the stunning Gorges de l'Ardèche. Enjoy a Gala Dinner on board your ship tonight. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Gorges de l'Ardèche Embark on a panoramic coach tour to the Gorges de l'Ardèche, a 30 km canyon carved over millennia by the Ardèche River. Marvel at the powerful forces of nature that have shaped deep valleys, cliffs, and captivating limestone formations. Stop to view the Pont d'Arc, a natural stone arch rising 100 feet above the river, offering extraordinary views of this awe-inspiring landscape.

After breakfast, it's time to farewell your Rhône River cruise and transfer to the airport for your flight to Amsterdam. Arrive in the captivating city of Amsterdam, where your Travelmarvel river ship awaits. Settle in and enjoy a warm Welcome Reception, meeting your fellow travellers and Cruise Director. Stay 14 Nights: aboard your Travelmarvel river ship (B/D)

Board a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's maze of waterways with a local guide, before enjoying some time at leisure. Afterwards, drive to Utrecht to rejoin your vessel for tonight's special Gala Welcome Dinner. (B/L/D)

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne's famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Augustusburg Palace in Germany Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the castle and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of rococo architecture from 18th century Germany.

Experience a true holiday highlight as you cruise through the Rhine Gorge, known to be the most beautiful section of the Rhine River. Your ship docks in Rüdesheim, where the Winzerexpress mini road train will take you through the town to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Here, discover one of the most beautiful collections of automated musical instruments in all of Germany. (B/L/D)

Discover Miltenberg today, exploring this well-preserved town's half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Miltenberg Culinary Tour Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting at a local distillery.

Board a coach and travel through the rolling hills to Würzburg. Visit the magnificent Würzburg Residence, a baroque palace renowned for its opulent interior, and stroll through the beautiful Court Garden. Later, you may choose to enjoy an optional visit to Rothenburg, a medieval fairytale town. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Rothenburg Excursion Depart from Würzburg for an excursion to medieval Rothenburg, a beautiful walled town located on the Romantic Road in Franconia.

Spend a leisurely morning cruising along the last stretch of the Main River before arriving at Bamberg. Enjoy a guided tour, during which you'll gaze upon such sights as the Old Town Hall and the Bamberg Cathedral, followed by some free time to explore. Later this evening, your ship will reach the Main-Danube Canal. (B/L/D)

Explore Nuremberg, once the site of Hitler's infamous rallies. Wander its cobblestone streets, discovering hidden boutiques and artisan stores. Finish your day cruising through the Main-Danube Canal, crossing Europe's Continental Divide via its 16 stair-step locks. (B/L/D)

Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg awaits. Spend the day in this charming city, docked in the heart of town, and join a guided walking tour to explore its major sights. Later, perhaps take an optional tour to Kuchlbauer's World of Beer in Abensberg. Enjoy a guided tour of the family-owned brewery and see The Kuchlbauer Tower, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Bavarian Evening on Board This evening, enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.

Enhance Your Journey - Kuchlbauer's World of Beer Brewery Visit Tour Kuchlbauer's World of Beer in Abensberg and see the Kuchlbauer Tower. Available on cruises from Amsterdam to Budapest only.

As you enjoy your breakfast, arrive in the ‘Three Rivers City' of Passau, where the Ilz and Inn rivers join the Danube. Perhaps join an optional tour to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or travel to Salzburg. Alternatively, stay on board and enjoy a relaxing sailing day to Linz. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Český Krumlov Visit Enjoy a fascinating day excursion to the city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, home to more than 300 historical buildings.

Enhance Your Journey - Salzburg Sights Take a trip through the stunning scenery of Austria. Visit Mondsee, where you may recognise the famous Wedding Church from ‘The Sound of Music'. Continue to Salzburg and be guided through the town Mozart called home. Enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure before returning to your ship.

Enhance Your Journey - Passau Culinary Tour In the beautiful city of Passau, enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the historic sites as you roam the cobblestone lanes of the Altstadt. You'll also get to sample a variety of sweet and savoury local specialties.

After cruising into Austria, dock in Melk for a tour of Melk Abbey with a local guide. Since 1089, this Benedictine monastery has stood atop a rocky outcrop, offering commanding views of the Danube. Later, cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, a town overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where legendary King Richard the Lionheart was kept as a prisoner in the 12th century. You have the afternoon free to explore the cobbled streets, town houses and taverns of the town. Perhaps join an optional tour to taste some of the region's wine. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Wine Tasting Visit Dürnstein Abbey, where you'll savour a glass of the local Grüner Veltliner or riesling produced in the region, as well as delicious brandy.

In Vienna, join a walking tour of St Stephen's Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. Afterwards, you may enjoy visiting the Naschmarkt. This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert featuring music from Mozart to The Sound of Music. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Mozart and Strauss Concert Enjoy a Mozart and Strauss Concert in one of Vienna's palaces or concert venues, followed by an evening drive around the Ringtrasse.

Today is yours to explore Vienna. Perhaps visit the Hofburg area and the Imperial Treasury. Otherwise, enjoy an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, or head to Bratislava. Later, set sail for Hungary. Tonight, celebrate your river cruise with a Captain's Farewell Dinner. (B/L/D)

Enhance Your Journey - Schönbrunn Palace Delve into royal history as you wander the lavishly furnished rooms and beautiful gardens of the famous Schönbrunn Palace.

Enhance Your Journey - Bratislava City Tour Travel from Vienna into Slovakia and on to its capital, Bratislava. There, explore the charming Old Town on a guided tour.

Today, enjoy views of one of the Danube's most enchanting riverside cities as your ship drifts right into the heart of Hungary's capital. After breakfast, a local guide will lead you through Budapest. Later, you may wish to join an optional tour to discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience - Hungarian State Opera performance Visit the Hungarian State Opera for a guided tour. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine as you're treated to a private opera recital.

Enhance Your Journey - Hospital in the Rock Tour Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle. This first-aid shelter was constructed in 1941 to withstand the blasts of bombing.

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • Augustusburg Palace: Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the palace and the lodge.
  • Miltenberg Culinary Tour: Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting at a local distillery.
  • Bavarian Evening on Board: Enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance. 
  • Amsterdam Canal Tour: Cruise along the picturesque canals of Amsterdam in a sleek, glass-covered boat, offering a unique perspective of the city's historic architecture and charming bridges. Glide through the serene waterways, passing vibrant neighbourhoods and hidden gems, while immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.
  • Hungarian State Opera Visit: Visit the Hungarian State Opera House for a guided tour. You'll then enjoy a glass of sparkling wine as you're treated to a private opera recital.
  • French Gastronomic Experience at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges: Delight in an authentic French meal at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges. Discover the innovative and unique approach to cuisine that Paul Bocuse was renowned for, earning himself three Michelin stars. Taste exceptional dishes reflecting the gourmet chef's love for fresh, high-quality ingredients, all meticulously prepared by world-class chefs. Accompanied by a spectacular setting, this experience is sure to tantalise your tastebuds.

  • Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
  • Prices are for cruise only. Flights are not included unless specified

Life Onboard Rigel

Rigel
Rigel

Part of Travelmarvel's brand-new fleet of European river ships, Rigel makes river cruising Europe with Travelmarvel better than ever before. Read more

Friendly Service
Friendly Service

Travelmarvels cruise directors plus a high staff-to-guest ratio on each ship ensures a smooth cruise holiday. Read more

Contemporary Accommodation
Contemporary Accommodation

Capella has its guests cruising in style with more amenities & features in each stateroom and suite. Read more

Delicious Dining
Delicious Dining

Discover Europe's culinary delights with a greater range of dining venues and options to suit your preference. Read more

Onboard Entertainment
Onboard Entertainment

From live music and dancing, to parties and games, Travelmarvel's Capella will keep you entertained day and night. Read more

Sun and Sky Decks
Sun and Sky Decks

Enjoy an unimpeded view of Europe from the Sun and Sky decks, available to you throughout your cruise. Read more

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this cruise. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Travelmarvel. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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