Dreamy European River Cruise Itineraries

Travelnet Marketing Team • 3 July 2023

Get ready to set sail and discover quaint towns, nestled in the heart of Europe!

Travel Marvel Dreamy European River Cruise Itineraries Promo Image - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

Seeking to explore Europe from a different angle? Longing to immerse yourself in some of the most quaint, beautiful villages off the beaten path? River cruising might just be exactly what you're looking for!

Travel Marvel offers a wide range of expertly crafted itineraries on an all-inclusive basis throughout. Experience an unforgettable journey through Europe, with WiFi, airport transfers, port taxes, gratuities and even free daily shore excursions included! And of course, for any solo travellers out there, Travel Marvel also ensures not to add any single supplements to their pricing.

Top Itineraries 2023/24

Travel Marvel Dreamy European River Cruise Itineraries, Street Picture of Miltenberg, Town in Germany

Munich (Germany) -> Bamberg (Germany) -> Würzburg (Germany) -> Miltenberg (Germany) -> Rüdesheim (Germany) -> Cologne (Germany) -> Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Venture through the highlights of Germany and the Netherlands, immersing yourself in a tapestry of enchanting cities. Begin your journey in Munich, Germany's vibrant cultural hub, before venturing to the picturesque town of Bamberg and exploring its historic charm. Continue to Würzburg, known for its magnificent Residenz Palace, and experience the medieval beauty of Miltenberg. Sail to Rüdesheim, a charming wine town nestled in the Rhine Valley, and indulge in the local flavours. Then, meander along the iconic Rhine River to Cologne, famous for its majestic cathedral, before concluding your adventure in the lively streets of Amsterdam, Netherlands. This unforgettable river cruise promises a seamless blend of cultural discovery, scenic landscapes, and irresistible experiences.

Travel Marvel Dreamy European River Cruise Itineraries, Picture of Belvedere Palace, Museum in Vienna, Austria

Budapest (Hungary) -> Vienna (Austria) -> Melk (Austria) -> Passau (Germany) -> Regensburg (Germany)-> Nuremberg (Germany)

Embark on a captivating river cruise through Central Europe, tracing the Danube River's historic path. Begin your adventure in Budapest, Hungary's mesmerizing capital, where architectural wonders await. Sail to Vienna, Austria's cultural gem, and immerse yourself in its classical elegance. Explore the enchanting Melk Abbey in Melk before arriving in Passau, Germany, known for its charming Old Town and picturesque riverside setting. Continue to Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its rich medieval heritage. Finally, discover the gripping history of Nuremberg, where the past comes alive through its well-preserved landmarks. This extraordinary river cruise promises an unforgettable blend of cultural immersion, breath taking landscapes, and cherished memories.

Travel Marvel Dreamy European River Cruise Itineraries, Picture of Strasbourg Place Kleber Christmas

Amsterdam (Netherlands) -> Cologne (Germany) -> Cochem (Germany) -> Rüdesheim (Germany) -> Strasbourg (France) -> Breisach (Germany) -> Basel (Switzerland)

Experience the enchantment of a Christmas Markets themed river cruise as you journey through Europe's most festive cities. Begin your joyful adventure in Amsterdam, where the air is filled with holiday cheer. Explore the magical markets nestled throughout Germany's towns and cities, adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Delight in the picturesque city of Strasbourg, France, with its charming half-timbered houses and Christmas cheer. Conclude this memorable journey in Basel, Switzerland and explore stalls filled with handmade crafts and delectable treats. Get ready for a joyful celebration of the season, creating cherished memories at every stop along the way!

Travel Marvel Dreamy European River Cruise Itineraries, Picture of Nuremberg Germany Old City

Amsterdam -> Cologne -> Brühl -> Rüdesheim -> Miltenberg -> Würzburg -> Bamberg -> Nuremberg -> Regensburg -> Passau -> Linz -> Melk -> Vienna -> Budapest

Embark on an unforgettable river cruise through the heart of Europe, tracing the magnificent Danube and Rhine rivers. This 2-week long excursion visits a beautiful variety of Europe's rich heritage.

Begin your adventure in the charming city of Amsterdam, exploring its historic canals and vibrant atmosphere. Sail to Cologne, where the towering Cathedral awaits. Visit the delightful town of Brühl before arriving in the wine-loving Rüdesheim. Discover the medieval beauty of Miltenberg and Würzburg, and immerse yourself in the rich history of Bamberg and Nuremberg. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Regensburg before reaching the picturesque town of Passau. Continue to Linz and marvel at its cultural offerings before arriving at Melk and its stunning abbey. Finally, conclude your journey in the magnificent city of Vienna, before reaching the enchanting city of Budapest. This extraordinary itinerary offers a diverse range of experiences, ensuring there is something for everyone. Immerse yourself in each destination and embrace new cities and cultures.

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How Do Different European Countries Celebrate Christmas?

by Martin Gill • 8 December 2025
Discover Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Traditions & Festive Secrets While we cherish our familiar traditions, the continent is brimming with ancient rituals, mythical gift-givers, and culinary delights that capture the true wonder of the season. From the snowy peaks of the Alps to the candlelit processions of the North, we’ve handpicked 10 unique ways our European neighbours celebrate the most wonderful time of the year. Get ready to explore a world where witches bring candy, gnomes guard the home, and the magic of Christmas takes on a whole new meaning.

15 Fairytale Destinations in Europe You Must Visit!

by Martin Gill • 31 October 2025
Discover Europe’s Dreamiest Towns, Castles & Villages Looking for places where history meets magic, colours glow in every season, and every street feels like a storybook scene? Europe is full of destinations that capture the imagination – from romantic towns and charming villages to mystical forests and dreamlike castles. We’ve handpicked the most enchanting spots that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped into a fairytale.

Festive Escapes: Discover Europe’s Most Magical Christmas Markets

by Elizabeth Leonard • 16 October 2025
✨ The Most Magical Christmas Markets You Have to Visit This Festive Season ✨ As the nights draw in and the scent of mulled wine fills the air, Europe begins to twinkle with festive magic. Christmas markets have long been the heart of winter celebrations — where fairy lights glow against historic buildings, choirs sing carols, and cosy stalls brim with handcrafted gifts and local treats.  If you’re dreaming of a festive getaway this year, here are some of the most enchanting Christmas markets you simply have to visit.

Royal Caribbean Legend of the Seas: New Features Revealed

by Elizabeth Leonard • 8 October 2025
Legend of the Seas Since our last update on Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas, there’s even more to get excited about. Families planning their summer 2026 getaway now have even more reasons to look forward to this incredible ship, from brand-new accommodation options to extra playful touches designed for kids of all ages. 

Island Hopping with Norwegian Cruise Line in the Caribbean

by Luis Braya • 30 September 2025
Discover the best beaches, snorkeling spots, and authentic Caribbean food while island hopping with Norwegian Cruise Line. Your ultimate guide to the Caribbean’s must-see highlights.
night sky with trees &stars

Noctotourism: The Magic of Travelling After Twilight

by Martin Gill • 16 September 2025
Travel doesn’t have to end when the sun sets – in fact, it can just be beginning. Noctotourism , the practice of exploring destinations at night, is a growing trend that opens the door to unforgettable experiences. From night safaris and polar light chases to stargazing and nocturnal dives, the night offers a magical perspective that daytime simply cannot. Exploring the world in darkness lets you see nature, wildlife, and urban landscapes in a completely different light, creating memories that are often more intimate, mysterious, and unforgettable. Nighttime travelling offers many advantages: Peace and privacy – fewer crowds mean you can enjoy scenery and natural sites at ease. Unique natural phenomena – many wildlife activities, polar lights, and starry skies can only be fully experienced at night. Otherworldly atmosphere – familiar locations take on a new, magical character when illuminated by moonlight or are they swallowed by darkness Adventure and romance – from night safaris to nocturnal dives, noctotourism blends thrill with peace. 

Prague – The Heart of Europe which you have to experience

by Martin Gill • 15 September 2025
Prague , often called the “City of a Hundred Spires” , is one of the most charming capitals in Europe and the capital of the Czech Republic . Thanks to its central location, it’s easily accessible from Ireland and offers a perfect combination of history, culture, stunning architecture and modern city life. In the evening, Prague transforms into a lively city full of atmosphere. From cosy traditional pubs serving world-famous Czech beer as Pilsner Urquell to stylish cocktail bars and jazz clubs, there’s something for everyone. You can enjoy a night at the theatre or opera, take a river cruise under the illuminated bridges, or simply stroll through the beautifully lit Old Town . Easy Connection from Ireland Getting to the Czech Republic is simple – a direct flight from Dublin to Prague takes just about 2.5 hours. Several airlines, including Aer Lingus and Ryanair, operate regular services, making it easy to find convenient times and good fares. With such a short journey, Prague is perfect not only for a weekend city break but also for longer holidays, whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a cultural trip or a lively group adventure.
A woman is sitting in front of a fan in a living room.

Perfect Summer Escapes to Avoid the Heatwave

by Louise Sawitzkaja • 10 June 2025
Summer is a time to enjoy long days, blue skies, and unforgettable adventures — but not everyone dreams of sweltering under the sun. With rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves across Europe and beyond, many travelers are now searching for destinations that offer ideal summer weather without the intense heat. Whether you're hoping for outdoor exploration, cultural discovery, or relaxing coastal views, you can enjoy the season in comfort. In this post, we highlight some of the trendiest destinations for summer 2025 where you can stay cool while still soaking up the best of what the season has to offer. The Azores, Portugal Rising from the North Atlantic, the Azores are a captivating Portuguese archipelago known for their lush volcanic terrain, emerald-green hills, and dramatic coastlines. Often called a nature lover’s paradise, these islands offer a serene escape filled with crater lakes, geothermal springs, and breathtaking viewpoints. Even in peak summer, temperatures remain comfortably mild — typically ranging between 20° and 25°C — making it ideal for outdoor activities without the discomfort of extreme heat. From hiking the volcanic trails of São Miguel to spotting whales off the coast or soaking in the thermal waters of Furnas , the Azores invite exploration at a relaxed pace. With a growing focus on sustainable tourism, the region offers an authentic and uncrowded alternative to traditional beach destinations, blending adventure with tranquility in one of Europe’s most eco-conscious retreats. The Easiest Way to Get There Travelling from Ireland to the Azores requires connecting flights, as direct routes are unavailable. São Miguel Island , the main entry point, is accessible from Dublin Airport (DUB) to Ponta Delgada , with one or more layovers. Flight Duration: from 8 to 12 hours , depending on layover durations. Price: return flights start from €143 . 
A large yacht is floating on top of a body of water

Coastal Cruising with APT Travelmarvel

by Luis Braya • 6 June 2025
Imagine this: you’re waking up to the sound of gentle waves lapping against the hull, stepping onto the deck with your morning coffee in hand, and being greeted by another sun-drenched port along the Croatian coast or the sparkling isles of Greece. That’s not a daydream—that’s life aboard a APT Travelmarvel Coastal Cruise. At Barter’s, we’re always on the lookout for those truly special travel experiences. The kind that balance comfort, discovery, and a little dash of magic. APT Travelmarvel’s Coastal Cruises tick all those boxes—and then some.
The Atomium in the middle of a park.

Brussels: a City of Heritage and Modernity

by Louise Sawitzkaja • 30 April 2025
As the capital of Belgium and the administrative heart of the European Union, Brussels is a city that seamlessly blends political significance with cultural richness. Whether you prefer to explore on foot, by bike, bus, or tram, the city offers countless ways to discover its many charms. A Rich History and Stunning Architecture Brussels is home to numerous historical and architectural landmarks, some of which are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites . Among the remarkable monuments that are waiting to be explored, the most iconic is the Grand-Place , a breathtaking central square surrounded by the Town Hall, and the King's House (Maison du Roi). A simple turn on the spot reveals centuries of history and stunning architecture. This vibrant square isn’t just beautiful — it's alive with activity year-round, hosting concerts, traditional fairs, cultural events, and the famous Flower Carpet every two years in the summer. Just a short walk away, you’ll also find the city’s mascot, the Manneken-Pis , a small statue with a big personality that has captured visitors’ imaginations for centuries. With its unique silhouette, The Atomium has, over time, grown to become the symbol of Brussels. On the inside it offers a beautiful view of the capital, and also an entirely astounding and surreal ride through its interior spaces and volumes which alone makes a visit worth. Other monuments to be discovered throughout the city include the elegant La Monnaie opera house, the historic Bourse , the grand National Basilica of the Sacred Heart , the impressive Justice Palace , and the beautifully maintained Royal Greenhouses of Laeken — an architectural gem surrounded by stunning gardens. And whether you want to enjoy a cup of coffee or chocolate, take a stroll or go shopping, don't forget to visit the Royal Saint-Hubert Galleries , a gorgeous glass-roofed arcade in the centre of Brussel.