Budapest by night.

The Jewels Of Europe’s Winding Waterways

22 November 2016
Read Time: 2.3 mins

From rugged mountain terrain to calm Mediterranean shores, Europe is a vast and varied continent, to say the least. Between dreams of devouring steak frites a la Parisienne in France to setting sail for St Petersburg in Russia, Travelmarvel has journeys for discovery right across the continent.

An authentic European experience is one of mixing with locals, discovering picture-perfect villages and tasting delicacies in each new destination. With Travelmarvel you can do that, and so much more. Travelmarvel tours dive into local life with unique insider experiences, while travelling aboard luxury riverboats with fine dining, attentive service and exceptional facilities.

In 2017, Travelmarvel will introduce two new and different river cruising experiences – Duoro River Cruising in Portugal and Russia River Cruising. The Duoro River journeys delve deep into the Duoro Valley, stopping at family-owned wineries and exploring charming villages along the way.

The stunning landscape along Portugal's Douro River. The stunning landscape along Portugal's Douro River.

At the other end of Europe, a completely unique experience awaits with the Russian River Cruise. Admire the opulence of Moscow and St Petersburg, and discover the intriguing Russian countryside in between.

Right in the heart of Europe, however, is Travelmarvel’s lauded European Gems River Cruise. Winding along waterways from Budapest to Amsterdam, this 15-day journey takes in the best of the region’s charming towns, villages and vibrant cities.

Indulge in locally inspired meals crafted by onboard chefs and complimentary beverages with lunches and dinners. Then at the end of the day, retreat to the privacy of your very own French balcony to watch the scenery pass by.


More European inspiration:

River cruising: Avalon's Little Luxuries

Alternative Paris: Enjoying The City Like A Local


This journey begins by exploring the enchanting city of Budapest, taking in the spectacular city squares and architecture and the impressive Buda Castle overlooking the Danube. Setting off along the Danube River, the next stop is filled with elegance and art in Vienna, where you can get a feel for local life with a walking tour followed by a full day of free time to take it all in as you please.

The picturesque town of Durnstein. The picturesque town of Durnstein.

Cruising by night, each day you’ll awake to a new place just waiting to be explored. Passing enchanting villages, rolling hills and entering new city sights, the ensuing days take in Bavarian highlights such as Durnstein, Linz and Regensburg. Picture days spent wandering medieval cobbled lanes, discovering ancient castles and being entertained by traditional Bavarian folk song and dance.

Heading north from Bavaria, a melting pot of history awaits in Nuremberg – the site of Hitler’s famous rallies – and Bamberg – one of Germany’s only cities to survive World War II. Stopping in the charming medieval towns of Wurzburg and Miltenberg, you’ll then make your way to the spectacular Rhine Gorge. The steep vine-covered slopes are dotted with ancient castles and strongholds – a true fairytale setting.

Ending the journey in Amsterdam, this tour allows you to delve deep into life in each village, town and city along the way. It’s an authentic journey though history, culture and life in each region – the Travelmarvel way. 

* Featured image: The stunning city of Budapest by night.


Visit your local Flight Centre store or call 131 600 for more advice and the latest deals on travelling to Europe.


 

Vicki Fletcher

Experience Vicki's experience

Head of Content and Social for Flight Centre, Vicki loves road trips down unknown tracks, hiking into mountain ranges, following locals to the best food in town, and spending long afternoons people watching in city squares. She's written for publications across Australia and Europe. Top travel tip: always look up. Follow Vicki on Instagram @vickijanefletcher.