Riviera Travel Launches Fifteen-Day Grand Tour Itinerary: A Taste of Italy & The Blue Danube

The 15-day Grand Tour itinerary, “A Taste of Italy & The Blue Danube Cruise,” has been unveiled by Riviera Travel, a pioneer in high-end European tours. The itinerary, which is scheduled to debut in 2027, offers a remarkable combination of opulent river cruising and cultural immersion, enabling visitors to discover the breathtaking scenery of southern Italy as well as the Blue Danube River. The itinerary is a part of Riviera Travel’s growing Grand Tour collection, which combines land travel with ultra-premium river cruises to offer tourists an enhanced touring experience.

This new tour, which follows the success of Riviera Travel’s other Grand Tour offerings, presents an opportunity to explore southern Italy’s rich history and culture, including the charming towns of Lecce, Alberobello, and Matera, before embarking on a luxurious seven-night river cruise along the iconic Blue Danube.

Explore Southern Italy’s Heritage and Beauty

The tour begins with a guided land journey through southern Italy, where guests will have the chance to visit historic sites and experience the country’s vibrant culture. Highlights of this portion of the tour include the baroque beauty of Lecce, a city renowned for its stunning architecture and intricate facades, and the picturesque trulli houses of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Travelers will also explore the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities.

Other destinations include the bustling streets of Bari and Otranto, where travelers can enjoy traditional Italian experiences, including a meal at a family-run masseria (farmhouse), offering a taste of authentic regional cuisine. Guests will spend seven nights in four-star, hand-picked hotels, experiencing the charm of southern Italy in comfort while enjoying fully guided excursions focused on the region’s history, culture, and gastronomy.

Seven Nights on the Blue Danube

After the land portion of the tour, guests will board one of Riviera Travel’s river cruise ships, either the Chaucer or MS Riviera Radiance, for a seven-night cruise along the Blue Danube. The river cruise will take travelers through some of Europe’s most culturally rich cities, offering guided excursions and onboard experiences.

The journey will include visits to Bratislava’s Old Town, the medieval Dürnstein’s Blue Tower, and the Melk Abbey, a breathtaking Benedictine abbey in Austria. Guests will also have the chance to explore Vienna’s cultural treasures and Budapest’s Castle Hill, two cities that are central to European heritage and history.

In addition to the daily excursions, evenings aboard the river cruise will offer guests a chance to enjoy cultural performances. Notably, travelers will be treated to a classical quartet recital in Vienna and a Hungarian folklore show in Budapest, enhancing their cultural journey along the Danube.

Riviera Travel’s Grand Tour Collection

“A Taste of Italy & The Blue Danube Cruise” joins other itineraries in Riviera Travel’s Grand Tour collection, a series of premium travel experiences designed to offer an immersive journey through multiple European regions. Other Grand Tour options include:

• Grand Tour of the Italian Lakes, Swiss Mountains & River Rhine Cruise
• Grand Tour of France: Provence, Paris & River Seine Cruise
• Grand Tour of the Heart of Italy to Portugal’s Douro River Cruise

These tours combine the best of land and river experiences, allowing guests to explore Europe’s cultural landmarks and enjoy luxurious cruising without the hassle of planning multiple trips.

The Appeal of a Curated European Experience

Riviera Travel’s Grand Tours are particularly popular among travelers seeking an effortless yet enriching way to explore Europe. The combination of curated land experiences with ultra-premium river cruising offers a seamless way to visit multiple countries and regions in a single, thoughtfully crafted itinerary.

“Travelers today want to experience the best of Europe without the hassle of planning multiple trips, and our Grand Tours create a smooth, seamless way to do just that,” said Stuart Milan, president of North America for Riviera Travel. He also emphasized that the new itinerary will inspire guests with southern Italy’s charm and the cultural treasures of the Blue Danube, ensuring unforgettable memories.

Perfect for Both Leisure and Cultural Enthusiasts

Whether travelers are looking for an in-depth exploration of Italy’s southern coast or seeking to immerse themselves in the rich cultural history of the Blue Danube, this 15-day itinerary offers the perfect balance of discovery and relaxation. The combination of guided land excursions and premium river cruising ensures guests experience Europe in comfort and style.

Booking Information and Availability

Bookings for the new “A Taste of Italy & The Blue Danube Cruise” will open in 2027. Visitors can use Riviera Travel’s official website to book the itinerary and obtain additional information. It is anticipated that this tour will draw a wide variety of tourists from all over the world due to the growing demand for flawless, high-quality European itineraries.

The post Riviera Travel Launches Fifteen-Day Grand Tour Itinerary: A Taste of Italy & The Blue Danube appeared first on Travel And Tour World.

Experience Europe’s Enchanting Christmas Markets by River: Avalon Announces Seven New 2026 Departures for a Cozy Holiday Getaway

Avalon Waterways is expanding its popular Christmas Market cruise lineup for 2026, offering travelers more opportunities to experience Europe’s most magical winter traditions. The company has added seven new departures, increasing its holiday season capacity by roughly fifteen percent. This expansion marks Avalon’s largest Christmas Market offering to date and reflects a growing global appetite for festive travel.

A Growing Festive Program for Global Travelers

Avalon now features nineteen holiday itineraries for the 2026 season. These journeys range from short five-day escapes to more immersive seventeen-day adventures that cover multiple regions of Central Europe. Itineraries continue to focus on the Danube, Rhine, and Main Rivers, allowing travelers to glide past old-world villages, snow-dusted vineyards, and brightly lit riverfront cities.

Guests can also extend their holidays with pre- and post-cruise stays in iconic winter destinations. Cities such as Prague, Lucerne, and Budapest are included in the longer programs. These extensions offer additional time to explore famous squares, seasonal markets, and historical sites at a relaxed pace.

Why These Cruises Appeal to Holiday Travelers

Avalon’s river cruises are especially attractive during the Christmas season. River ships dock near the heart of most European towns, allowing travelers to walk directly into the markets. The cozy scale of the ships also suits the season; passengers can return to warm suites and riverside views after hours of browsing crafts and tasting local treats.

Travelers often seek winter experiences that are convenient and comfortable. Avalon’s suite-style staterooms, heated interiors, and scenic lounge spaces offer a warm retreat between outdoor explorations. The atmosphere encourages leisurely mornings, festive dinners, and low-stress travel between cities.

For travelers looking for value, early-booking savings apply to select 2026 departures. Discounts can reach up to one thousand dollars per person, depending on itinerary and date.

Booking Tips for a Smooth Holiday Journey

Travelers planning a Christmas Market river cruise should book early. Holiday departures sell out quickly, especially in late November and early December when the markets are at their most vibrant. Choosing a cabin with a panoramic window or balcony adds to the enjoyment, as winter river views are often breathtaking.

Travelers with mobility concerns should review accessibility details ahead of time. Many European markets feature cobblestone streets, uneven ground, or outdoor steps. It is helpful to select excursions that match personal comfort levels and consider using early-morning time slots when crowds are lighter.

To enhance the experience, travelers may want to add themed shore excursions. Cooking demonstrations, guided market tours, music performances, and visits to artisan workshops can deepen cultural understanding.

Documents and Travel Requirements

Travelers headed to Europe should review passport rules well in advance. Many European destinations require passports to remain valid for at least three months beyond the intended departure date, and the document must have been issued within the last ten years.

Visitors should also stay updated on upcoming European travel authorizations. Once operational, certain non-EU travelers will need additional electronic approval to enter most European countries for short stays. It is important to monitor announcements from official government agencies and apply only through recognized national or regional portals. Travelers who require a visa should prepare supporting documents early, including proof of accommodation, travel insurance, itinerary details, and financial documentation.

Seasonal Preparation and Packing Advice

December travel in Central Europe brings cold temperatures, so appropriate clothing is essential. Travelers should pack insulated layers, warm socks, gloves, scarves, and waterproof footwear suitable for walking on cobblestone streets. A small day bag is useful for carrying market purchases, while a reusable cup may come in handy for mulled wine refills.

To make the most of the markets, plan visits for late afternoons or evenings. Lights typically illuminate historic squares, creating a warm glow over wooden stalls filled with ornaments, candles, baked goods, and regional handicrafts. Midweek visits may be calmer than weekends.

Safety, Insurance, and On-Trip Planning

Travelers should consider comprehensive travel insurance. Plans that include emergency medical coverage, cancellation protection, and lost-baggage support can offer peace of mind. Before departure, review official travel advisories, emergency numbers, and local regulations for each country on the itinerary.

Dining on board provides a comfortable break from chilly weather, but trying local treats is part of the Christmas Market charm. Seasonal specialties include gingerbread, roasted nuts, grilled sausages, and hot spiced wine. Each region offers distinct flavors that reflect centuries of winter traditions.

A Festive Way to Experience Europe

Avalon’s expanded 2026 Christmas Market cruise program gives travelers more chances to discover Europe during its most enchanting season. With convenient docking locations, cozy ships, added departure dates, and helpful pre- and post-cruise options, travelers can design a seamless winter holiday. By preparing documents early, packing thoughtfully, and planning flexible days, guests can relax and enjoy the lights, flavors, and music that define Europe’s Christmas spirit.

The post Experience Europe’s Enchanting Christmas Markets by River: Avalon Announces Seven New 2026 Departures for a Cozy Holiday Getaway appeared first on Travel And Tour World.