France

There’s something about river cruising that’s just so irresistible. You get intimate access to the hearts of cities and historic regions. You sail right through some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, getting a different perspective from the water. And you get to experience it all from your own private, luxury vessel. It’s safe to say river cruises are as popular as ever in 2025, so we’ve rounded up some of the best cruises and itineraries to book this year, from the iconic Danube to the mighty Nile.

1. The Danube, Europe

Experience the dreamy Danube River on a cruise through Central and Eastern Europe. You’ll waltz through historic cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, soaking up rich history and stunning architecture. Expect musical evenings, wine tastings, and guided tours that bring the regions’ stories to life.

Cruise the Danube on: Harmony of Central Europe

2. The Nile, Egypt

A journey back in time along the mighty Nile River remains one of the greatest river cruises in the world. You’ll sail from Luxor to Aswan and beyond, exploring ancient Egyptian temples, tombs, and the Valley of the Kings. As you watch daily life go by on the lush river banks, you’ll get a deeper insight into the significance of the world’s longest river and how it brings life to the region.

Cruise the Nile on: Elegance of the Nile

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3. The Mekong, Southeast Asia

As the longest river in Southeast Asia, the Mekong is the lifeblood of the region. You can sail its waters through Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, learning how communities live on the water, with floating markets, restaurants and homes. Stop off in tranquil villages and ancient temples like Angkor Wat, or head to the bustling cities of Ho Chi Minh, Phnom Penh and Luang Prabang.

Cruise the Mekong on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

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4. The Seine, France

The Seine stretches for almost 500 miles through France, but it’s best known for its gorgeous stretch in Paris. A Seine River cruise remains a rite of passage for any traveler to France, as it’s a great way to see the famous monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Grand Palais. Kick back with a glass of bubbles and soak up the City of Lights from the water.

Cruise the Seine on: Ultimate France

5. The Mississippi, United States

A cruise along the Big Muddy is one of the classic experiences of the United States. You’ll get into everything here, from the New Orleans jazz scene to the deliciously soulful cuisine. Visit Civil War historical sites and discover the unique culture of small bayou towns on your Mississippi River cruise.

Cruise the Mississippi on: Southern Grace

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6. Venetian canals, Italy

The waterways of Venice need no introduction. The historic canals have inspired countless artists and travelers over the decades, and they’ll always be one of the world’s most coveted spots for cruising. When in Venice, you can take a romantic gondola ride to see the iconic sites like Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge. Or learn more about the traditions of the Venetian waterways, like the glassblowing artists of Murano.

Cruise the canals of Venice on: Ultimate Italy

7. The Amazon, South America

As the lifeline of the world’s largest rainforest and the longest river in the Americas, a cruise down the Amazon is a very special experience. Here you’ll have the chance to spot rare and unique plants and animals, including sloths, monkeys, and even pink river dolphins, and learn how Indigenous communities live along this remarkable river.

Explore South America on: Classic South America

8. The Ganges, India

The Ganges River is an important pilgrimage site and one of the most sacred rivers in India. A cruise on the Ganges will take you on a voyage through ancient cities, temples and spiritual traditions and rituals. Bask in the pink sunrises and witness daily life on the Ganges as locals bathe in the sacred water and worship the rising sun.

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9. The Rhine, Europe

Sail through the heart of Europe on the Rhine, famed for its riverbanks dotted with fairy-tale castles, vineyard-clad hills, and medieval towns. The river begins in the Swiss Alps and continues to run through Germany and the Netherlands. With stops in cities like Cologne, Strasbourg and Basel, a Rhine River cruise dishes up the perfect blend of history, culture and scenery, making it one of the best river cruises in Europe.

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10. The Murray, Australia

As the longest river in Australia, a cruise along the Murray offers a glimpse into the unique ecosystems and communities of the region. From the arid landscapes of the Outback to the lush vineyards and historic riverside towns, the Murray is a fascinating journey. You can learn more about the Indigenous cultures and explore nature reserves to see local wildlife like kangaroos, koalas and turtles.

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11. The Douro, Portugal

Cruise through Portugal’s pastoral wine region along the Douro River. Famed for its centuries-old tradition of wine production, the Douro is flanked by breathtaking hills blanketed in terraced vineyards. You can start by tasting the locally-grown grapes in the renowned cellars of Porto on the Atlantic Coast and journey all the way to Vega de Terron, the golden city of Salamanca in Spain.

Explore Portugal on: Spain & Portugal in Style

12. Rio Serrano, Chilean Patagonia

Venture to the ends of the earth with a cruise down the Rio Serrano in Chilean Patagonia. You’ll pass by the most breathtaking natural wonders including the Southern Icefield as the river takes you to Seno Ultima Esperanza (Fjord of the Last Hope). Here you’ll see pristine rainforests and if you continue through the fjord by boat, you’ll also see the dazzling Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers.

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13. The Loire, France

If you’re looking for the quintessential European cruise, filled with fairytale castles and stunning wineries, look no further than the Loire Valley. Renowned for its magnificent chateaux, lush vineyards, and Renaissance architecture, a cruise through the Loire is like stepping into a storybook.

Explore France on: Ultimate Southern France

14. The Yangtze, China

China’s longest river offers up a grand voyage through lush mountains, ancient history and surreal landscapes. Cruise down the Yangtze River to see natural wonders like Three Gorges, the Wu Gorge, the Shennong Stream, and riverside towns like the shrines and temples Fengdu Ghost City. It’s an unforgettable journey.

15. The Dutch Waterways, the Netherlands

As a low-lying country, the Netherlands is almost built on water, with plenty of canals and rivers to explore. One of the best times to go is spring, when the gardens and tulips are in full bloom. Whether you glide down Amsterdam’s canals, or sail into the countryside to see the windmills and farmland, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sail in the Netherlands.

Your frequently-asked questions about river cruising, answered:

What is the most beautiful river cruise in Europe?

There’s so many stunning river cruises in Europe, it’s impossible to say just one. Each river has its unique charm. The Danube has its enchanting cities like Vienna and Budapest while the Douro has its ancient wine-making traditions. The Loire is dotted with fairytale castles while the Rhine is home to the Rhine Gorge, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.

Is a balcony worth it on a river cruise?

If you’re going on a river cruise with lots of scenic landscapes, a balcony is definitely worth it. You’ll be able to watch the scenery unfold from the comfort of your luxury room, and you’ll also have a private space to get some fresh air. There’s nothing like gazing out at the Wachau Valley along the Danube or the Rhine Gorge, all in your own cosy bubble.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

For European rivers like the Danube and Rhine, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. For more tropical destinations like the Mekong or Amazon, it’s best to research the dry and wet seasons to decide what experience you prefer. While the dry season will have better weather (less rain), the wet season has greener scenery and high water levels that allow for more extensive exploration of smaller tributaries.

How far in advance should I book my river cruise for 2025?

It’s advisable to book at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for popular river cruises or during peak travel seasons. Early booking can also secure better deals and ensure you get your preferred cabin type.

Are river cruises suitable for families?

River cruises are traditionally popular with older adults, however many river cruise lines are now offering family-friendly itineraries and activities. It’s a great way for families to go on holiday, as you can unpack once and don’t need to hop around between destinations as frequently.

What are your favorite river cruises? Let us know in the comments below!

Picture the scene: a sommelier comes over as you flick through the wine list. There are dozens, maybe hundreds, of options to choose from. You feel overwhelmed: you know what you like, but you’re interested in trying something new. It can be hard to know what to ask a wine professional, or how to talk their language. We caught up with Aisling Bury, sommelier and Restaurant Manager at The Olive Tree in Bath, UK ‒ the city’s only Michelin-starred restaurant, which as a Luxury Gold guest you’ll visit on our British Royale journey ‒ to learn how to talk to a sommelier on your travels.

What is a sommelier?

First things first: what is a sommelier? Essentially, it’s the wine expert employed by a restaurant to help select wines for the venue. They talk guests through the wine list, helping them choose a good match for their dish. Depending on the country, a sommelier usually has a diploma or qualifications from an institution such as the Court of Master Sommeliers. Much of their role happens behind the scenes: designing a restaurant’s wine list ‒ which can run into the tens of thousands of bottles ‒ and working with head chefs to plan food and drink pairings. But they’re also here to guide you. If you’re wondering how to talk to a sommelier, think of what you want from the chat: usually, to help them understand your tastes while also learning a bit about the evening’s wines and getting some new recommendations. Go in confidently with this bluffer’s guide to sommelier talk.

For further reading: From Prosecco to Pecorino: a Guide to the Best Italian White Wines For 2024

Dishes and varieties

The Olive Tree specializes in seasonal fine dining (credit: @olivetreebath on Instagram)

By the time a sommelier comes over to your table, you’ll likely have had time to peruse the menu, and this is vital. You might like a Pinot Noir or a Sauvignon Blanc at home, but your choice of dish is the biggest influence on the wines they will choose. This is especially true of dishes involving red meat, fish, chocolate or cheese, but everything from herbs to char-grilling can influence their choice. So before your chat, note the dishes you’re most interested in ordering. Try to communicate what you like: even if you think you don’t the terminology of wine tasting, you’ll certainly know which flavors your palate responds to. Think of it like ordering a cocktail: you might tell a barman you prefer bright, acidic, citrus flavors, or mellow, sweet or fruity flavors. Those same preferences can be transferred to wine, so don’t be afraid to describe your favorite things to your sommelier.

A sommelier will often talk to you about dryness versus sweetness and the options of full-bodied, medium-bodied or lighter wines. These choices enhance different textures and flavors in your food: so a fatty meat might need a juicy, acidic wine to cut through that fattiness, while an off-dry white wine has the sweetness to complement spicy dishes.

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Scent and clarity

Once a first wine has been selected, your sommelier will pour you a small glass to try. But don’t knock it back just yet. “The first thing you’re going to do is swirl the wine,” explains Aisling Bury, who encourages diners to get a deep noseful of the wine’s aroma. “You’re looking for things that smell out of place; so scents of wet cellar, damp cardboard, a caramel note or just generally an unpleasant vinegar smell.” Next, you should hold the wine up to the light, taking note of the color and transparency of the liquid. “You’re looking for clarity,” explains Aisling. “Unless it’s a natural wine, you want it to be clear and not foggy.” Natural wines aren’t filtered or fined, due to their low-intervention style of winemaking, hence a slight cloudiness when you hold them to the light. Feel free to talk to a sommelier about how the wine was produced and any unusual techniques. 

Your sommelier may also talk to you about the “legs” on your wine. Aisling explains: “When you swirl a wine and it goes up the glass, it’s how slowly the little rivulets of liquid stream down the inside of a glass. The slower they move down suggests a higher alcohol content or sugar content in the wine.” Think of it as syrup running slowly down a glass surface, but water running quickly, hardly leaving any trace. The sweeter the wine, the slower the “legs”.  “Most people think that it’s either to do with the age of the wine or the quality of the wine, but it’s actually a lot simpler than that,” says Aisling.

Tasting the wine

Now, time to taste. Expert tasters swish a mouthful of wine around their mouths, identifying any sour, sweet, mineral, fruity or tannic notes. Tannins are substances from the wine skins and seeds that give your mouth a dry, coated feel, and are most common in red wines. You might take a small sip of air through your mouthful of wine to oxygenate the liquid and bring out different flavors.

One myth Aisling wants to bust is that this first taste is a chance for diners to give a wine the thumbs-up. “You’re not checking whether you like the wine,” she says. “At this point you’ve made your choice, so you’re checking to see if the wine is faulty, not whether or not you like it.” If either you or the sommelier detects a dank, musty, wet cardboard smell, or unpleasant taste, they may conclude the wine is “corked” and decide to open another bottle. Being corked simply means the bottle has become contaminated with cork taint, creating a chemical reaction. A sommelier may show you the wine’s cork, which will also smell if the wine is corked. 

Assuming the wine is of a good standard, take this opportunity to ask your sommelier questions about the country of origin and the winemakers who created it. They can tell you which grape varieties it is made from, what the terroir (earth) is like at the vineyard, any unusual methods that were employed, and which other foods it pairs best with.

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Three experiences to put your knowledge to the test

Fashionable mature women having fun toasting and drinking wine at luxurious restaurant in France

Rosés in Provence, France

On Luxury Gold’s 12-day Ultimate Southern France tour, you’ll stop by the prestigious Château La Coste winery outside Aix-en-Provence, to see its outdoor art and sculpture collection, stroll among the vines and try the acclaimed rosés. It’s had an “Organic Agriculture” label since 2009 thanks to its biodynamic methods of farming and production.

Cool-climate reds in Chile

Boutique winery Kingston Family Vineyards handcraft small-production batches of Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc in the cool climate of Chile’s Casablanca Valley, pioneering cool-climate reds as well as the white wines Chile is most famous for. Visit while touring the continent on Luxury Gold’s epic, 23-day Grand South America journey.

Scenic tastings in South Africa

On a nine-day Spectacular South Africa tour, you’ll meander through the luscious green countryside north of Cape Town, enjoying a scenic drive through the wineland towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch, and Franschhoek, packed with incredible vineyards. South Africa’s diverse wines are also a big part of your delicious Farm-to-Table meal at the award-winning Werf Restaurant, which is renowned for its sustainability.

Dine with us at The Olive Tree in Bath when you join our 10-day British Royale Journey 

Southern France is synonymous with glamour, indulgence and sublime rural landscapes. Picturesque villages, vineyards, dazzling cities and azure coastlines form an elegant blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.

Lavish hotels, Michelin-starred dining and exclusive events all contribute to its status as a luxury haven. Here, Travel Concierge Helen shares her admiration for French culture and cuisine, along with her personal recommendations to make Ultimate Southern France even more exceptional.

Discover this on: Ultimate Southern France

Sophisticated and stylish

“What I’ve always loved about France is that it is just so sophisticated,” says Helen. “The French are very stylish.”

“As a culture they really take the time to learn how to prepare something. Take food for example. It takes years to become a chef, and there’s a real respect around acquiring and applying knowledge and producing something of really high quality. This can be seen in many areas, such as with wine, furniture and so on.”

For travel inspiration: France destination guide

Luxury is time

“There’s a different approach to time in France, which I really I really appreciate,” she tells us, adding with a smile that it can also be sometimes frustrating.

 “For me, luxury is all about time. Obviously, it’s the quality of things, but it’s also the luxury of taking the time to enjoy things. Of being able to say we can sit and try the local specialty, be that a patisserie or an aperitif, and break from a world where we’re all so busy. And Ultimate Southern France offers just that.

“We have two nights in Monte Carlo, three days in Aix-en-Provence Two nights in Carcassonne and two in Bordeaux So, the pace of the tour is elegant. We’re not running from hotel to hotel, we have this chance to relax and go a little bit deeper.”

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The rural pleasure of southern France

“Often people’s first point of arrival in France would be Paris, the City of Light. Big and beautiful, it’s also big and busy,” says Helen. “The South of France is a haven of tranquility.

“Historically it’s a huge rural economy. So, inevitably, the pace of life is very different. Up until a few decades ago everything would have been based on the agricultural cycle. This routine is maybe not so much the case anymore, but farming and the vineyards are still an incredibly important part of the South of France.”

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I love this chateau on the French Riviera

Credit @villaephrussi on Instagram

The Côte d’Azur, also known as the French Riviera, stretches from Saint-Tropez to the Italian border, and encompasses iconic cities like Nice and Cannes. This glamorous Mediterranean coastline is renowned for its azure waters and golden beaches, dotted with palm-lined promenades, luxurious yachts, and chic boutiques.

“Elegant and enchanting, there is so much to love about the Côte d’Azur,” says Helen. “My highlight on Ultimate Southern France is the Rothschild Chateau in Nice. “It’s one of the places where everybody asks, ‘what is this about?’ It is so unusual.”

Built in 1905 by Beatrice de Rothschild, the opulent Villa and gardens of Ephrussi de Rothschild is home to over 5,000 art objects. Up on the hillside, it looks out over the Côte d’Azur.

“I think it’s this thing of going to a place you might not have gone to yourself, and it is stunning. It’s such a nice surprise because nobody has any expectations.”

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Exquisite dining, perfectly planned

Credit: @ lepressoirdargentgordonramsay on Instagram

With many exceptional dining experiences included on this tour, from a pastry making lesson with a professional chef to fine dining, you embark on a thrilling gastronomical journey. In addition to the included dining, there are countless options in the South of France to further indulge the taste buds.

“The Pressoir d’Argent, Gordon Ramsay’s restaurant is located in Le Grand Hotel Bordeaux and, if you love haute cuisine, then this is an exceptional experience,” says Helen. “Reservations do need to be made around a week in advance, so this is something I talk to guests about at the start of the tour.

“A key aspect of being a Travel Concierge is about being on the front foot all the time with guests. France is my neighborhood and I know all the ways to make this tour exceptional above and beyond the planned itinerary. So, I make sure to impart this knowledge to guests and tailor recommendations to their pleasures, to ensure they can make the most of these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities.

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My restaurant recommendations in Nice

Nice, the largest city on the French Riviera, is also one of the most charming. Located between the Mediterranean Sea and the famous Maritime Alps, the city offers a unique combination of urban convenience and natural beauty.

Guests on Ultimate Southern France have free time in Nice, to choose where they have lunch and dinner. With so many options, Helen is on hand to help you choose the perfect spot.

“If you really want to sit down and have a nice lunch in Nice, you’ve got the top top option, which is the Hotel Negresco,” Helen advises. “It’s restaurant Le Chantecler, with its 18th century décor, is incredibly decadent, indulgent and fun.

“And if you want something more casual then I’ll send you to the Old Town. In the lovely higgledy piggledy streets, with their gorgeous pink and peachy hues, I recommend you visit ‘Le Panier’.

“Around 100 years ago, a huge wave of Italian immigrants came from Bergamo into southern France and brought their delicious food with them. You must try the ‘socca’, it’s like a frittata but made from chickpea flour. Its great as an aperitif with a beer or glass of wine.”

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Personalize your day in Aix-en-Provence

An art installation at Chateau La Coste. Credit: KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA

On all Luxury Gold tours, at various points guests can personalize their day with a choice of two experiences. Each thoughtfully chosen with the Luxury Gold guest in mind, they offer contrasting ways to experience your destination.

“In charming Aix-en-Provence, we visit the remarkable Château La Coste, and here guests can choose between a wine tasting or an art walking tour,” Helen explains. “The Chateau La Coste is one of these surprising places where often no one has any expectations when we arrive, and it’s pretty phenomenal. There is a huge vineyard, a beautiful lake and a fascinating outdoor art gallery. Guests also have the opportunity to choose between experiences in Nice and Bordeaux.

“It’s all about personal preference, not just on where your interest lies, but also your rhythm at that point. Some guests may still be tired from their transatlantic flight for example or come from another European trip. So, I encourage people to work out what they need at that moment in time. Maybe it’s to sit down and sip fine wines, or whether you’d like to explore and learn. Indeed, on most occasions, guests can also choose to do both options, this is the beauty of our small group journeys.”

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Elevated souvenirs – a timeless piece of French history

Par Original téléversé par Christophe.moustier sur Wikipédia français. — Transféré de fr.wikipedia à Commons par Bloody-libu utilisant CommonsHelper., CC BY-SA 3.0,

“My advice for a fabulous souvenir would be ‘les boutis,’” Helen says. “You can find some of the best examples of these elegant textiles at the market we visit when in Lourmarin.

“In the 1700s there was a strong commerce connection between the southern French city of Marseille and India, which saw the arrival of amazing fabrics. The French found the prints so beautiful they decided to begin making their own. So, when you see Provençal material, like tablecloths, serviettes or bedspreads, it’s likely that that print came India 300 years ago and has become part of a kind of cannon of prints that haven’t really changed ever since.

“Aesthetically, they’re beautiful – a timeless classic. They don’t age and still look as good today as they did say 50 years ago.

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My pick of the exceptional hotels

Credit: @lamagdeleinemathiasdandine on Instagram

A hallmark of Luxury Gold tours are the exceptional five-star hotels. Each one hand selected, they not only bookend each day, but are often a destination in themselves. “Each hotel is stunning but different, which I love about Ultimate Southern France,” says Helen. “All reflect the sophistication and excellence of French hospitality, whilst offering a variety of decadent experiences.”

“The 18^th century La Magdeleine – Mathias Dandine, where we stay for three nights when visiting Aix-en-Provence is definitely a highlight,” says Helen. “An elegant Provençale country house, you’re at the foot of the Sainte-Baume Mountains and get a real taste of the spirit of living in Provence.

“Then in contrast in the heart of the city, Le Grand Hotel Bordeaux in terms of luxury is phenomenal. I love this hotel because it’s got a superb relaxation and wellbeing space with a lovely indoor pool and rooftop terrace. We spend two nights here at the end of the tour so you can really relax and make the most of the amenities, and it’s perfectly placed for easy sightseeing.”

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The beauty of a Luxury Gold tour

“With Luxury Gold, everything is personal,” explains Helen. “With an average of just 20 people on a tour, our small group journeys leave plenty of time for one-to-one attention from your Travel Concierge.

“We’re able to respond to the ideas, needs and desires of guests and also of the group. For example, with one group, in Aix-en-Provence, some wanted to come to the Chateau, and some wanted to rest back at the hotel for us to collect them later. This is the kind of thing we can do on Luxury Gold, we have that flexibility, which I love.”

To experience the sophistication for yourself, take a look at Ultimate Southern France, just one of our exquisite small group journeys.