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 - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

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 - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

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 - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

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 At Pegnitz River - Blog Post Barters Travelnet

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.

Thinking of trying out a river cruise?

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A boat is going down a river in a city.

Liège: A Vibrant City Full of Charm

by Louise Sawitzkaja • 24 April 2025
Famous for its rich cultural life and warm, festive atmosphere, Liège is a vibrant city in Wallonia, the French-speaking region of southern Belgium, nestled in the scenic valley of the Meuse River. Though compact in size, it offers an abundance of experiences for visitors —blending history, charm, and energy in every corner. Scenic Walks and Cultural Highlights Liège offers a variety of scenic routes for walking enthusiasts, from riverside strolls along the Meuse to exploring the charm of its historic city center. For those seeking a physical challenge, the Montagne de Bueren — a staircase with 374 steps — is a must. At the top, you'll be rewarded with one of the city's most stunning panoramic views. If you're looking to reconnect with nature, Liège also features several inviting parks and gardens. One highlight is the Parc de la Boverie , beautifully situated between the Meuse River and the Dérivation canal. It's the perfect spot to unwind or enjoy a leisurely walk. At the heart of the park lies an art museum, home to both permanent collections and rotating exhibitions. For plant enthusiasts, the Liège Botanical Garden and its greenhouse offer a captivating experience. Wander through the park and admire a diverse array of exotic plant species from around the world including Plane trees, Bald cypresses, Judas trees, Japanese zelkova, Sequoias, Paulownia, Ginkgo and Catalpas.
guggenheim museum

Bilbao: A City Full of Surprises

by Elizabeth Leonard • 7 April 2025
As a marketing assistant at Barter’s Travelnet Cork, I’m lucky enough to be talking about and researching stunning destinations every day. One place that has stuck with me and become my favourite travel destination is Bilbao. My sister has lived there for the past 4 years, so I’ve been lucky enough to visit quite a few times, each time bringing new experiences and plenty of memories. When I found out that Cork Airport now has a direct flight to Bilbao, I think it's safe to say I was pretty excited. Bilbao: More Than Just a City Bilbao is one of those places that manages to surprise you each time you visit. It has a mix of modern architecture, historical charm, and an atmosphere that’s laid-back but buzzing at the same time. If you’re not familiar with the city, it’s probably best known for the Guggenheim Museum (definitely worth the visit), but there’s so much more to Bilbao than that. Every time I visit, I always feel like I’m uncovering something new. Whether it’s a quiet street in Casco Viejo or a hidden café serving the best coffee you’ve ever had, Bilbao always seems to have something up its sleeve.
A view of the ocean from a balcony overlooking a city.

Escorted Tours vs. Independent Travel: The Smarter Way to See Europe

by Luis Braya • 13 March 2025
Traveling through Europe is a dream for many, but the way you choose to experience it can make all the difference. Whether you’re considering an independent adventure or an escorted tour, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons. While solo travel has its perks, Riviera Travel’s escorted tours offer an unmatched combination of stress-free planning, expert guidance, and exceptional value for money. Here’s why choosing a guided experience is the ultimate way to explore Europe. Stress-Free Planning We Handle the Details, You Enjoy the Journey Independent travel requires meticulous planning—researching flights, accommodations, transportation, and daily itineraries. The time spent coordinating logistics can quickly become overwhelming, especially when navigating different languages, local customs, and last-minute changes. With Riviera Travel’s escorted tours , everything is expertly arranged for you. From handpicked hotels to comfortable transportation and immersive itineraries, you can simply relax and enjoy your adventure without the hassle of planning. No stress about finding the best places to stay or eat. Seamless transfers between destinations. Pre-arranged skip-the-line access to top attractions.
The new Legend of the Seas cruise ship floating in the ocean

Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas: The ultimate family adventure

by Amy Kelly-Obi • 5 March 2025
Legend of the sea's Royal Caribbean is set to debut their third icon class ship ‘Legend of the Seas’ Debuting Summer 2026 this modern facilitated vessel promises to redefine cruising with innovative features & unparalleled travel experiences. Legend of the Seas is the perfect family getaway, offering a luxurious cruising experience with stunning interior facilities and top-notch quality. Designed with families in mind, the ship features modern design and thoughtful details to ensure everyone has an unforgettable time on board. Here's everything you need to know about the debut of this dazzling new ship. Click here to explore our offers on Legend of the Seas. European debut The Legend of the Seas will commence its first journey in the summer of 2026 in Barcelona, Spain. The Legend of the Seas will debut in August 2026 with a 7 night Western Mediterranean journey visiting Palma De Mallorca, Spain, Florence/Pisa, Italy, Rome, Italy & Naples, Italy before returning to Barcelona. Caribbean Debut After the summer season concludes the Legend of the Seas will reach its new homeport in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Starting in November 2026, Legend of the Seas Journeys 6 Night western Caribbean & 8 night Southern Caribbean Cruises visiting destinations such as Aruba, Jamaica, Curacao, Haiti, The Bahamas & the Dominican Republic.
Fireworks are exploding over a city skyline at night.

Exploring Riviera Travel’s Themed River Cruises: What You Need to Know

by Luis Braya • 12 February 2025
Riviera Travel's themed river cruises offer travelers the opportunity to combine their passion for specific subjects with the serene experience of river cruising. These specialized journeys are designed to immerse guests in their interests, whether it be music, art, history, or nature, all while traversing Europe's most scenic waterways. What Are Themed River Cruises? Themed river cruises are curated voyages that focus on particular areas of interest. They provide guests with tailored experiences, including expert-led excursions, onboard lectures, and activities that align with the chosen theme. This approach allows travelers to delve deeper into their passions in the company of like-minded individuals, all within the comfortable and luxurious setting of a river cruise.

Sun, City, or Adventure? New Summer Routes from Cork Airport

by Amy Kelly-Obi • 6 February 2025
New destinations from cork IN 2025 With three airlines announcing exciting new routes from Cork to Izmir , Turkey , Bilbao , Spain , Bordeaux , France , & Dalaman , Turkey . There's never been a better time to take off from everyone’s favorite airport. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a thrilling solo adventure, a fun-filled getaway with friends, or a memorable family holiday, Cork airport’s new summer destinations offer something for everyone. iZMIR, tURKEY SunExpress is launching a new direct flight from Cork Airport to Izmir, Turkey , for the summer of 2025. This service will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays & conclude in October 2025. Izmir is a vibrant coastal city in western Turkey, located on the Aegean Sea. Known for its rich history, modern vibe, and beautiful scenery, it's the third-largest city in Turkey and a major port. It boasts a warm climate, with summer temperatures averaging between 27°C and 34°C , making it an attractive destination for travelers seeking sun. The region is home to significant cultural sites like the ancient city of Ephesus and the House of the Virgin Mary . Additionally, Izmir offers a rich culinary scene, including a variety of local wines. A Holiday to Izmir is best suited for families seeking a mix of history, Beach time, and cultural experiences, with kid friendly activities & attractions like Ephesus and the numerous waterparks in the area. Izmir is also a fantastic destination for a romantic getaway with your significant other. The scenic coastal views, charming streets & sunset along the Kordon promenade make it an ideal choice. While Izmir is not known for its big party scene it makes the perfect for solo travelers seeking a peaceful & relaxing holiday. Izmir is a perfect blend of serenity and vibrant experiences that makes it a versatile destination, appealing to those seeking relaxation or cultural discovery. Click here to contact one of our agents & start planning your trip to Izmir!
There is a small town in the middle of the ocean.

Island escape: Why Madeira should be your next travel destination

by Amy Kelly-Obi • 15 January 2025
where to holiday in 2025? Ryanair has just unveiled a new route for 2025 from Shannon airport to Madeira ,Portugal. Commencing on March 30th Ryanair will fly two times a week to this dazzling new destination. Madeira, a vibrant green island positioned in the Atlantic Ocean, is one of Portugal’s most captivating regions. Celebrated for its incredibly diverse culture & breathtaking nature. From its dramatic mountains, breathtaking coastlines and botanical life Madeira is Portugal’s secret island paradise. reasons to go to madeira Madeira is a year round destination Being cradled between Europe & Africa and being almost 1000 kilometers from Portugal’s mainland, Madeira offers charming climate throughout the year. With average temperatures ranging from 18 to 24 degrees. Making it an ideal destination to soak up some winter sun & visit all year round.
A group of people are sitting at a table in a restaurant onboard celebrity cruise.

Stress-Free Family Cruises

by Luis Braya • 20 December 2024
How Barter's Travelnet and Celebrity Cruises Can Help? Planning a family vacation can be overwhelming, especially when coordinating travel for a large group. At Barter’s Travelnet, we believe family travel should be stress-free and full of unforgettable memories. That’s why we’re thrilled to highlight Celebrity Cruises , which offers exceptional cruises tailored to multigenerational families. Whether you're dreaming of tropical beaches or cultural cities, Celebrity Cruises' seamless blend of luxury, value, and family-friendly activities ensures there’s something for everyone.  Here are our top tips for planning a large family cruise, so all you need to focus on is enjoying the journey.

Why Norwegian Cruise Line Is Perfect for Family Vacations

by Anna Mc Carthy • 5 December 2024
Planning a holiday that pleases everyone in the family can feel like an impossible task. Kids want endless entertainment, adults crave relaxation and fine dining, and grandparents may dream of cultural exploration or quiet moments. Enter Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) , the ultimate solution for family and group travel. With a fleet of innovative ships, diverse itineraries, and activities for all ages, NCL makes it easy to create memorable experiences together—while still allowing everyone to enjoy their vacation. Family-Friendly Staterooms Traveling with kids often requires more space, and Norwegian has you covered. From interconnecting staterooms to spacious suites, there’s an option for every group size. Interconnecting Rooms: Ideal for families, these allow parents and kids to stay close while maintaining privacy. The Haven Suites: For those seeking luxury, The Haven offers multi-room accommodations with exclusive perks like a private pool and concierge service.

Why the Mediterranean with Norwegian Cruise Line is the Best Way to Explore Europe

by Anna Mc Carthy • 12 November 2024
The Mediterranean region has long been a dream destination for travellers, filled with rich history, diverse cultures, and breath taking landscapes. But planning a Mediterranean vacation can feel overwhelming with so many cities and attractions to choose from. Fortunately, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers a solution that combines ease, comfort, and an unforgettable travel experience. Here’s why cruising the Mediterranean with NCL is the perfect way to see Europe’s wonders, from iconic cities to hidden gems. See Multiple Destinations Without the Hassle One of the greatest advantages of a Mediterranean cruise with NCL is the opportunity to visit multiple cities, countries, and islands—all without the need for constant packing, flights, and train schedules. With a cruise, your hotel travels with you, so you can wake up in a new destination each morning. Imagine sipping coffee on your private balcony while approaching the cliffs of Santorini or the shores of Barcelona—each port offers a fresh perspective without the travel headaches.
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