• River Cruising

Review of Castles along the Rhine with Uniworld

By PNFL , June 27, 2023 in River Cruising

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I sailed on Uniworlds SS Antoinette June 10-17.   Prior to the cruise we did the pre-extension to Lucerne and post cruise with did the extension in Amsterdam.  We were meet at the airport by a Uniworld rep and the ride to the hotel took about an hour from Zurich airport to Lucerne.  The hotel was very nice.  Our room did not over look the lake but the view of the hill side was still nice. Our guide meet us at the hotel and told us there would be a meeting at 2pm to talk about the agenda for the following day and also to enjoy a welcome drink. There were about 13 of us on the pre-sxtension.  Three of us had signed up before leaving on the cruise to do the optional tour to Mount Stanserhorn but the guide knew nothing about us signing up for this tour.  Before we left we were told we had to either do the walking tour of Lucerne or the optional tour but we could not do both.  Our guide said no it was possible to do both and she would contact Uniworld. 

After our meeting and a glass of wine we decided to head into town for some dinner.  To get into town you had to take the funicular lift and then a ferry.  We had a wonderful dinner at the Hotel Des Balances.  It was expensive but worth the money.

The next day we took a walking tour which lasted about 90 minutes then we headed to Mount Stanserhorm.  Mount Stanserhorn was wonderful and not very crowded.  We returned to the hotel around 4pm and just decided to eat at the hotel. The next day we were transported to the ship.  The bus arrived at 12:30 but we did not get to the ship until after 3pm.  I really think the bus driver got lost.

The SS Antoinette is very nice and the bed was very comfortable.  This was our third Uniworld cruise and I will say it was not my favorite.  The service was excellent but I thought the food was just OK.  We did sign up for an optional wine dinner for 70 euro's and I did not think it was worth the money. Most of the stops we had to take a bus for the excursions which is fine but I enjoy just being able to get off the ship and wander into town.  

We also did the post extension in Amsterdam with Uniworld.  This was definitely not worth the money I think I could of done it much cheaper on my own.  When we got off the ship in Amsterdam we were taken by bus to the Rijksmuseum and then a canal ride.  We spent I think about 2 hours at the museum but wish we had more time.  Our Uniworld guide after our canal ride walked us to the hotel and gave us a 24 hour tram ticket.  The next day was on our own.  Before leaving I had gotten tickets to the Van Gogh museum and also the Anne Frank house.  We did a lot of walking that day!  The next day we were transferred to the airport and arrived in plenty of time for our flight.  So I enjoyed the cruise but it was not my favorite.   If you have any questions please let me know.  

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  • 4 weeks later...

Thanks for the review!

What was less favorite on this cruise compared to your previous cruises? You mentioned food, was food better on the previous cruises? Which ships have you previously sailed? Are there significant differences between different Uniworld ships? We are doing the Empress in September, the longer version of your cruise (10 nights).

14 hours ago, ak1004 said: Thanks for the review!   What was less favorite on this cruise compared to your previous cruises? You mentioned food, was food better on the previous cruises? Which ships have you previously sailed? Are there significant differences between different Uniworld ships? We are doing the Empress in September, the longer version of your cruise (10 nights).

The food was just not up to the quality of other ships we have been on.  The last night on board I got the halibut and it was dry and tough.  I thought the breakfast and lunch buffet were good.  We were on the River Princess on the Danube and SS Joie De Vivre from Paris to Normandy.  The service was wonderful on board.  Also the scenery along the river was not as nice as the Danube. We took the optional excursion to Heidleberg and I loved it.  My first cruise was from Budapest to Praque and I loved it so it is hard I think for other cruises to live up to that cruise.  I am sure you will enjoy the cruise. 

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7 of the best river cruises around the world for 2024

Take a tour of the world’s most famous waterways on your next holiday, article bookmarked.

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The Mekong flows through six countries, including Thailand

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A cruise holiday isn’t always about setting sail across vast oceans. For an alternative type of break on the water, winding your way inland might sound similar but it’s a vastly different experience.

From crossing deep into the untouched areas of the Amazon rainforest to exploring some of Europe ’s finest cities, the river cruise experience is one that allows tourists to get to grips with the history, culture and tradition of a destination in a slow, immersive fashion.

This could be in the form of sampling Creole cuisine in Mississippi or discovering historic sites in Vietnam , but whatever it is, there’s plenty of choice across Europe , Asia , South America and North America .

Read on for a selection of the best cruises, from the Mississippi to the Mekong.

Europe’s second longest river – and arguably its most famous – river takes you through amazing capital cities and host of charming towns, as well as plenty of scenic countryside in Austria , Hungary , Slovakia and Romania. Cruises along the Danube can vary from a handful of days to almost three weeks, giving you time to explore the elegance of cities like Vienna , Budapest, Bratislava or Belgrade.

Emerald Cruises lets you see the best of the Danube with the addition of a hefty dose of traditional German culture in Munich. Leaving the Bavarian capital, you’ll travel to Passau before a quick cross-border trip to the Unesco-listed Czech city of Cesky Krumlov. Vienna is the next city, replete with opulent architecture, before a quick overnight stay in Bratislava on the sixth night. Guided tours and hikes around the castle are included, before you get three nights to explore Budapest, the Hungarian capital that is blessed with picturesque buildings, relaxed thermal baths and a buzzing nightlife scene. 

From £1,999pp, including nine nights’ accommodation, full board, tours of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest and airport transfers. Departing 7 May 2024 to 20 October 2024.

Read more on Europe travel :

  • The lesser-known Croatia destinations you may not have considered
  • The best spas in Eastern Europe for an affordable, yet luxurious, break
  • Lisbon travel guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Portugal’s vivacious capital

This famous river runs for over 4,000 miles throughout South America and is a major part of the eponymous rainforest, one of the most biodiverse and important natural areas on the planet. A river cruise remains the best way to reach deeper into the jungle, with many cruises beginning in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus or in the Peruvian city of Lima.

Start in Peru’s enchanting capital with the Peruvian Rivers and Rainforest Discovery cruise from Uniworld. You’ll fly to Iquitos, the largest city in the Amazon as your next stop, before delving into some of the most remote areas in the world as you take to the waters. From here, nature takes centre stage, with a variety of experiences – including jungle walks and kayaking on a lake – added to the enjoyment of natural features such as giant lilies, towering barrigona trees and around 10 per cent of the world’s known animal species.

From £8,799pp, including 10 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London, domestic flights and various excursions. Departing regularly from 17 January until 6 November 2024.

Start in  Cairo  and make your way down to Aswan over a few days (though many shorter routes operate between  Aswan and Luxor  only). For a relaxing way to take in riverside scenery and some of Egypt’s most important historical sites, a river cruise is the ideal choice.

AP Touring’s  Egypt Discovery  trip takes you on a round trip from Cairo. You’ll cross thousands of years of history, starting with West Bank the Valley of the Kings, before a short flight to Aswan to explore Abu Simbel and a sighting of the landmark Pyramids of Giza near the Egyptian capital. The scenery along the route is exceptional, too, with palm trees, green spaces and mini oases dotted in between the yellow-hued rock.

From £6,995pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, 30 meals (including unlimited local beer and wine) return flights from London Heathrow, domestic flights within Egypt and activities in each of the 10 destinations. Departing regularly from September 2024 to April 2025.

Exploring this land of castles and fairytales is a worthwhile European trip, with tours often starting in the pretty Dutch capital of Amsterdam and weaving across the German and French countryside, with the route broken up by cities such as Cologne, Dusseldorf and Strasbourg. Many of the towns located on the banks of the Rhine, such as Koblenz, are incredibly picturesque, with a range of medieval castles and natural sites like the Black Forest also featuring.

Ama Waterways provide a seven-night cruise that runs from Basel to Amsterdam. Get your cultural fix at either end of your trip in either of these two cities, before admiring the vistas around the Rhine Valley, the medieval castles that loom over towns like Heidelberg and the timber-framed buildings that line the streets of Riquewihr and Strasbourg. Stops in both Freiburg and Dusseldorf are also included, as well as an optional excursion to Cologne.

From £2,399pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and tours in each destination. Departing regularly between 18 February and 28 December 2024.

The views around the Douro Valley are some of the best in Portugal , whether you’re sitting by the banks in Porto or admiring the verdant hills and vineyards around Pinhao. This region, well-known for its port production, has cruises lasting roughly one week that usually begin and end in Porto – where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean – with a brief crossing over into Spain and Salamanca.

The Riviera Travel package offers an affordable eight-day Douro option starting and ending in Porto , with two nights to explore Portugal’s magnificent second city (and to go on a guided tour of a well-known port producer). Days three and four take you to sleepy Castelo de Rodrigo and the historic Spanish city of Salamanca (with guided tours and time to explore at your leisure) before traversing the cascading vineyards of the valley on your way back to Porto via the beautiful Peso de Regua (and a local wine tasting).

From £1,599pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board, flights from a London airport, one excursion one each day and airport transfers. Departing regularly from 7 April 2024.

The Mississippi

Discovering the Deep South is often done by car, but with new routes recently from Viking Cruises, exploring Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota and Tennessee has never been more idyllic. The famed cities of New Orleans and Memphis can bookend your tour, with lesser-known locations such as Baton Rouge, Natchez and Darrow making up the other stops.

Opt for Viking’s ‘Heart of the Delta’ cruise to if you really want to immerse yourself in the Deep South. The cruise begins with a few days exploring the French influences and Creole cuisine of New Orleans , before moving on to Baton Rouge – a haven of Creole and Cajun culture – and then onto Natchez, the oldest city on the river. You’ll travel through other towns on the Mississippi – complete with walking tours or excursions to the Atchafalaya Swamp basin – before reaching Memphis, the atmospheric home of blues music.

From £6,545pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London and one excursion per destination. Departing weekly from March 7 until 13 June, with additional departures on 7 November and 13 November.

The Mekong flows through a host of Asia’s most fascinating countries, including Vietnam , Thailand , China and Cambodia. Most cruises only take in parts of Vietnam and Cambodia , though this mix of floating fishing villages, traditional markets and the two capitals of Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh will be enough for most travellers. With Avalon Waterways , you’ll combine energetic, modern cities with some of the most vibrant culture in Asia and a history that is equal parts sobering and fascinating.

It starts in Siem Reap, site of the Angkor Wat temple, before moving on to the Cambodian capital, where you can learn about the dictatorship of Pol Pot and visit several must-see landmarks. After this, Vietnam beckons, with a visit to the dizzying Ho Chi Minh City to see its admirable architecture. Visits to markets, old Vietnam War tunnels, temples and cooking classes are dotted in between these city trips for good measure, with stops at characterful towns like Vinh Long, too.

From £4,229pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and activities on each day of the trip. Departing regularly from 15 January to 11 March and from 12 August to 2 December 2024.

Read more: Best hotels in Europe: Where to stay for a city, beach or retreat break

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Good Housekeeping UK

Good Housekeeping UK

The best river cruises for a boutique European cruising experience

Posted: 17 May 2024 | Last updated: 17 May 2024

<p>A voyage through some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways on a small cruise ship is the perfect way to explore more of a region than you might otherwise. And with some lovely boutique ships taking to Europe’s rivers on dazzling itineraries, there’s never been a better time to explore our home continent.</p><p>We've rounded up the best river cruises for a boutique sailing this year. From the Douro to the Rhone, Europe has some of the world's most scenic rivers that are best experienced on a small ship.</p><p>River cruises are also the perfect introduction to cruise holidays for first-time cruisers. And those who already know and love the joy of discovering destinations by small ship will enjoy exploring new itineraries accompanied by famous faces.</p><p>Check out Good Housekeeping's pick of the best river cruises for 2023.</p>

A voyage through some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways on a small cruise ship is the perfect way to explore more of a region than you might otherwise. And with some of the best cruise ships taking to Europe’s rivers on dazzling itineraries, there’s never been a better time to explore our home continent.

RIVER CRUISES WITH GH

From the Douro to the Rhine , Europe has some of the world's most scenic rivers that are best experienced on a small ship, where you can sail from little towns to historic cities via relaxing long stretches of countryside.

We've rounded up the best river cruises for boutique sailing, selecting those that combine the most carefully put-together itineraries aboard the loveliest ships, including a super-luxe option to explore the Venetian Lagoon in autumn 2024.

River cruises are also the perfect introduction to cruise holidays for first-timers, while those who already know and love the joy of discovering destinations by small ship will enjoy exploring new itineraries accompanied by famous faces, such as chef James Martin and historian Lucy Worsley .

Here are Good Housekeeping's pick of the best river cruises for exploring Europe's wonderful rivers, plus a few options for those who want to travel further afield.

<p>Make a visit to Venice is extra special by boarding a luxury cruise and exploring the enchanting waterways aboard the beautiful S.S La Venezia. It's an incredible week-long itinerary that takes you through the Po River and the Venetian Lagoon to visit places such as Chioggia, Vicenza, and Burano.</p><p>The ship matches the Venice's splendour in its opulent fittings, filled with accents that honour its location, including exquisite Venetian masks and Murano glass. Everything's included on this five-star cruise, from delicious premium Italian wines to a choice of excursions on the islands you'll visit. </p><p>Better still, there are exclusive extras, including a private performance by Russell Watson and the chance to see some of Venice's most famous sights when they're closed to the public.</p><p><strong>When?</strong> April 2023</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/italy-venice-cruise-russell-watson-concert">FIND OUT MORE</a> </p>

Sail the magical Venetian Lagoon and hear Russell Watson sing

Venice is a captivating city, almost frozen in time, where astoundingly beautiful buildings line a maze of canals — it's no wonder the sheer decadence of this place captures the hearts of so many. Part of the thrill of visiting Venice is getting swept up in its narrow streets, peering into windows displaying intricately painted masks and feasting on plates of risotto in piazzas. Join Good Housekeeping's fantastic music-themed Venice cruise with world-renowned tenor Russell Watson, which includes an exclusive intimate concert in this stunning and historic city and seven nights on board a luxury ship. You'll explore the lagoon's elegant waterways aboard S.S La Venezia. It's an incredible eight-day itinerary that takes you around the Venetian Lagoon to visit places such as Chioggia, Torcello, Mazzorbo and Burano.

S.S. La Venezia matches Venice's splendour in its opulent fittings, filled with accents that honour its location, including exquisite Venetian masks and Murano glass. Everything's included on this five-star cruise, from delicious food and wines to a choice of excursions around the islands.

When? October 2024

FIND OUT MORE

<p>Delight your palate with some of Portugal’s most sensational wines on an eight-day Autumn cruise along the Douro River. After arriving in Porto to join the A-ROSA ALVA, you’ll journey to Régua, a town that’s produced port since the 18th century. </p><p>A little later on the voyage, you’ll visit a Quinta in Pinhão and take part in the traditional grape harvest, picking and crushing the grapes underfoot – bound to be a memorable moment! You’ll then journey to Spain, sampling port wine in Vega Terron.</p><p><strong>When? </strong>October 2022 and 2023</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/douro-river-wine-cruise">FIND OUT MORE</a></p>

Taste Portuguese wines on a Douro River cruise

The gorgeous Douro Valley is an enchanting and peaceful pocket of Portugal, famed for its port wine and loved for its storybook-style beauty. Terraced vineyards rise steeply from the winding river and are dotted with whitewashed Quintas - the region's terracotta-roofed wine estates - making it a particularly scenic area for a relaxing river cruise.

Sit on the sundeck of a ship to watch the scenery pass by, and delight your palate with some of Portugal’s most sensational wines on an eight-day round-trip cruise on the Douro River. You'll be able to explore the area and learn more about its port production — with plenty of opportunities to sample it yourself on visits to rustic Quintas

After arriving in Porto to board the A-ROSA ALVA, you’ll sail to Régua, a pretty riverfront town that’s produced port since the 18th century. You'll follow the Douro, hopping from place to place to where Portugal borders Spain before turning back. A highlight is visiting a Quinta in Pinhão where, depending on the season, you might get to take part in the traditional grape harvest, picking and crushing the grapes underfoot .

When? June and September 2024

<p>There are so many enchanting cities and villages along the banks of the Rhine, and they really come into their own in December. Germany is famed for its atmospheric Christmas markets, and many of the best in the country can be found along the Rhine, making a Christmassy cruise a fabulous way to explore them.</p><p>There's Mainz, one of the oldest cities in Germany, where you can visit a historic Christmas market on the Domplatz, set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral. You'll want to visit Koblenz too, a city considered to have one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, and one of the largest in the Rhineland.</p><p>Join Good Housekeeping for a <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/rhine-christmas">festive voyage</a> along the Rhine on the the beautiful ship A-ROSA Aqua and you'll visit Mainz and Koblenz as well as Frankfurt and Cologne, where the market takes place right in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral.</p><p>On board your ship you'll find a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool to enjoy between your market trips, and ample breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets in the ship's lovely dining venues.</p><p><strong>When? </strong>December 2023<br><br><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/rhine-christmas">FIND OUT MORE</a> </p>

Visit Germany's famous Christmas markets along the Rhine

There are so many enchanting cities and villages along the banks of the Rhine, and they really come into their own in December. Germany is famed for its atmospheric Christmas markets, and many of the best in the country can be found along the Rhine, making a Christmassy cruise a fabulous way to explore them.

There's Mainz, one of the oldest cities in Germany, where you can visit a historic Christmas market on the Domplatz, set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral. You'll want to visit Koblenz too, a city considered to have one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, and one of the largest in the Rhineland.

Join Good Housekeeping for a festive voyage along the Rhine on the the beautiful ship A-ROSA Aqua and you'll visit Mainz and Koblenz as well as Frankfurt and Cologne, where the market takes place right in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral.

On board your ship you'll find a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool to enjoy between your market trips, and ample breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets in the ship's lovely dining venues.

When? December 2024 FIND OUT MORE

<p>The banks of the Danube have seen the rise and fall of empires and provided inspiration to some of Europe's greatest artists and composers. This grand river winds its way past mysterious hillside castles and ancient medieval towns and meanders through a range of culture-rich cities, including four <a href="https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/lifestyle/travel/g45858913/best-city-breaks/">European capitals</a>.<br>A river cruise is an unbeatable way to explore some of the cities straddling the Danube, allowing you to visit several towns, villages and cities on one trip, without having to organise local transport yourself. </p><p>One of the finest cities that the Danube flows through is Vienna, once the home of Mozart, where manicured gardens, chic coffee houses and baroque palaces will have you feeling like you've stepped back in time. It's also the home of the Royal Lipizzaner Stables at the Spanish Riding School, where grand Lipizzan horses perform a mesmerising type of equine ballet. <br>On Good Housekeeping's Danube River cruise you can visit the Royal Lipizzaner Stables with historian Lucy Worsley. You'll enjoy an aperitif and a talk before watching the training of the young stallions in the imperial atmosphere of the Baroque winter riding school, as classical Viennese music plays.</p><p><strong>When? </strong>September 2024</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/danube">FIND OUT MORE </a></p>

Glide along the Danube and see the Lipizzaner horses in Vienna

The banks of the Danube have seen the rise and fall of empires and provided inspiration to some of Europe's greatest artists and composers. This grand river winds its way past mysterious hillside castles and ancient medieval towns and meanders through a range of culture-rich cities, including four European capitals . A river cruise is an unbeatable way to explore some of the cities straddling the Danube, allowing you to visit several towns, villages and cities on one trip, without having to organise local transport yourself.

One of the finest cities that the Danube flows through is Vienna, once the home of Mozart, where manicured gardens, chic coffee houses and baroque palaces will have you feeling like you've stepped back in time. It's also the home of the Royal Lipizzaner Stables at the Spanish Riding School, where grand Lipizzan horses perform a mesmerising type of equine ballet. On Good Housekeeping's Danube River cruise you can visit the Royal Lipizzaner Stables with historian Lucy Worsley. You'll enjoy an aperitif and a talk before watching the training of the young stallions in the imperial atmosphere of the Baroque winter riding school, as classical Viennese music plays.

When? September 2024

<p>While Europe has more than its fair share of enchanting rivers, you're also spoilt for choice if you fancy a river cruise further afield. </p><p>Asia has several waterways which provide ideal routes for discovering new countries and cultures. Flowing through Myanmar, China, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world and home to an incredible range of wildlife.</p><p>It makes the ideal destination for a river cruise that combines culture, delicious cuisine and wildlife-spotting. You might spot species like the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, giant freshwater stingray and giant catfish swimming alongside you.</p><p>Good Housekeeping is offering an <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/cruise-vietnam-cambodia-mekong-river-cruise">immersive adventure</a> along the Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam. You'll sail in a Luxury Balcony suite aboard the Mekong Jewel, a luxurious and beautifully decorated ship, to visit unforgettable sights like the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat temples and incredible cities like Phnom Penh and Hanoi.</p><p>There'll be ample opportunities to learn about the turbulent history of the region too, with visits to the infamous Killing Fields and a glimpse of the Viet Cong's network of tunnels dating back to the Vietnam War.</p><p><strong>When?</strong> February or March 2024</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/cruise-vietnam-cambodia-mekong-river-cruise">FIND OUT MORE</a></p>

Sail further afield with a cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia

While Europe has more than its fair share of enchanting rivers, you're also spoilt for choice if you fancy a river cruise further afield.

Asia has several waterways which provide ideal routes for discovering new countries and cultures. Flowing through Myanmar, China, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world and home to an incredible range of wildlife.

It makes the ideal destination for a river cruise that combines culture, delicious cuisine and wildlife-spotting. You might spot species like the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, giant freshwater stingray and giant catfish swimming alongside you.

Good Housekeeping is offering an immersive adventure along the Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam. You'll sail in a Luxury Balcony suite aboard the Mekong Jewel, a luxurious and beautifully decorated ship, to visit unforgettable sights like the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat temples and incredible cities like Phnom Penh and Hanoi.

There'll be ample opportunities to learn about the turbulent history of the region too, with visits to the infamous Killing Fields and a glimpse of the Viet Cong's network of tunnels dating back to the Vietnam War.

When? December 2024

<p>One thing that's synonymous with Italy is good food, and that's exactly what you can enjoy on this <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/venice-james-martin">eight-day sailing</a> around Venice and the Veneto region. </p><p>Tick off Venice's spectacular sights, including the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and St Mark's Basilica, which you'll visit after dark on <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/venice-james-martin">our Good Housekeeping cruise</a>. As part of our GH trip, you'll also get VIP access to the Doge's Palace, the stunning Venetian Gothic palace that dates back to 1340. </p><p>Sailing on the luxurious <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/venice-james-martin">S.S. La Venezia</a>, which accommodates only 126 guests and has a wonderfully intimate feel, you'll also visit the colourful, charming islands of Burano (pictured above), Mazzorbo and Torcello, all situated in the Lagoon of Venice.</p><p>If all of that wasn't exciting enough, the cherry on top will be meeting acclaimed chef James Martin, who will join you on board for the day to give a talk and partake in a Q&A and book-signing session. In addition, the much-loved <em>Saturday Morning</em> host will cook a delectable gala dinner one evening, too.</p><p><strong>When?</strong> October 2024</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/venice-james-martin">FIND OUT MORE</a></p>

Enjoy an Italian feast with James Martin in Venice

One thing that's synonymous with Italy is good food, and that's exactly what you can enjoy on this eight-day sailing around Venice and the Veneto region.

Tick off Venice's spectacular sights, including the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and St Mark's Basilica, which you'll visit after dark on our Good Housekeeping cruise . As part of our GH trip, you'll also get VIP access to the Doge's Palace, the stunning Venetian Gothic palace that dates back to 1340.

Sailing on the luxurious S.S. La Venezia , which accommodates only 126 guests and has a wonderfully intimate feel, you'll also visit the colourful, charming islands of Burano (pictured above), Mazzorbo and Torcello, all situated in the Lagoon of Venice.

If all of that wasn't exciting enough, the cherry on top will be meeting acclaimed chef James Martin, who will join you on board for the day to give a talk and partake in a Q&A and book-signing session. In addition, the much-loved Saturday Morning host will cook a delectable gala dinner one evening, too.

<p> Another Asian adventure awaits on the Ganges, India's most sacred river. Sailing along this important body of water allows you a unique insight into life along its banks. It meanders 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas down through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature. </p><p>A Ganges cruise is a wonderful way to see some of India's best attractions, with highlights including the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.</p><p>Join Good Houskeeping's <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/india-ganges-tour">once-in-a-lifetime tour of India</a>, which includes seven-night cruising in luxury down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including a trip to witness both sunset and sunrise over the iconic Taj Mahal – you'll board the opulent Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals, to explore the culture and history on the river banks.<br><br>Of course, another highlight of India holiday is the cuisine, and you'll be joined on board by Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who will share his passion for Indian cooking in a live demonstration.</p><p><strong>When?</strong> November 2024</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/india-ganges-tour">FIND OUT MORE</a></p>

Discover local traditions as you sail the Ganges in a luxury ship

Another Asian adventure awaits on the Ganges, India's most sacred river. Sailing along this important body of water allows you a unique insight into life along its banks. It meanders 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas down through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature.

A Ganges cruise is a wonderful way to see some of India's best attractions, with highlights including the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.

Join Good Houskeeping's once-in-a-lifetime tour of India , which includes seven-night cruising in luxury down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including a trip to witness both sunset and sunrise over the iconic Taj Mahal – you'll board the opulent Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals, to explore the culture and history on the river banks. Of course, another highlight of India holiday is the cuisine, and you'll be joined on board by Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who will share his passion for Indian cooking in a live demonstration.

When? November 2024

<p>Another brilliant option if you're itching to explore another continent is Egypt, where the Nile holds awe-inspiring archaeological treasures along its banks. </p><p>A cruise along this fabled river allows you to easily visit magnificent temples like Kom Ombo, Philae, and Edfu and to see the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty. There are several more fascinating monuments to see along the way, including the towering twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon.<br>Join a <a href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/egypt-nile">cruise along the Nile</a> with Good Housekeeping and you'll see all this and more while sailing on board the exceptional luxury ship, River Tosca. Making this river cruise even more special is the company of historian and author Lucy Worsley.</p><p>Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie, who took inspiration from this region for one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile. You'll have afternoon tea at the hotel which features in the novel and Lucy will share her knowledge of the famous author's work during several Q&As and talks.</p><p><strong>When?</strong> September 2024</p><p><a class="body-btn-link" href="https://www.goodhousekeepingholidays.com/tours/egypt-nile">FIND OUT MORE</a></p>

Discover the wonders of Egypt and sail the Nile

A brilliant option if you're itching to explore another continent is Egypt, where the Nile holds awe-inspiring archaeological treasures along its banks.

A cruise along this fabled river allows you to easily visit magnificent temples like Kom Ombo, Philae, and Edfu and to see the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty. There are several more fascinating monuments to see along the way, including the towering twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. Join a cruise along the Nile with Good Housekeeping and you'll see all this and more while sailing on board the exceptional luxury ship, River Tosca. Making this river cruise even more special is the company of historian and author Lucy Worsley.

Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie, who took inspiration from this region for one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile. You'll have afternoon tea at the hotel which features in the novel and Lucy will share her knowledge of the famous author's work during several Q&As and talks.

More cruise ideas:

- The best cruises for couples

- A guide to Northern Lights cruises

- The most beautiful Danube cities and towns

- A guide to Japan cruise holidays

- The most beautiful rivers in Europe

- The best small ship cruises

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IMAGES

  1. A Tully Review: Uniworld’s ‘Castles on the Rhine’

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  2. Uniworld

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  3. Why Uniworld's 'Castles Along the Rhine' Deserves Its Stellar

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  4. 2024

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  5. A Tully Review: Uniworld’s ‘Castles on the Rhine’

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  6. Castles along The Rhine (Basel to Amsterdam, 2019) (from Basel to

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VIDEO

  1. Pressburger Duo on Uniworld Cruise in Vienna, April 2024

  2. Meet the S.S. Antoinette

  3. Castles along the Rhine riverboat cruise through France and Germany

  4. EP2: Day 4 to 8. See the most scenic stretch of Rhine and explore fairytales-like towns

  5. Uniworld River Countess Tour

  6. Cruise Ship/Rhine River Best Sights! Castles, Scenery. Hidden Treasures/Experiences on the Rhine

COMMENTS

  1. 2024

    Find inspiration in the romantic, soul-stirring beauty of the fabled Rhine. Cruise along the Rhine—Germany on one side, France on the other. Discover Alsace, whose dual French and German heritage has given it fabulous food and a winemaking tradition that goes back to the Romans. Marvel at castles that were once mighty fortresses and get an ...

  2. Pricing

    Start planning your Castles along the Rhine (2023) trip with all the sailing dates, prices by category and current offers on one page. ... Part of the TTC Family of brands. My Bookings. Manage My Uniworld Bookings Make a Payment. Travel Information. Pre-Cruise Registration ...

  3. 2023

    2023: Find inspiration in the romantic, soul-stirring beauty of the fabled Rhine River, with landscapes celebrated by generations of poets, painters, and composers. Part of the TTC Family of brands My Bookings

  4. Ship Details

    On Castles along the Rhine (2023), your boutique river cruise ship is a stylish floating hotel with inviting spaces, exquisite antiques, custom fabrics and original works of art.

  5. Pricing

    Sat 26 Oct. Basel to Amsterdam. from. $7,099 $4,599. End Date: Sat 2 Nov 2024. $2,500pp Cruise Savings. Start planning your Castles along the Rhine (2024) trip with all the sailing dates, prices by category and current offers on one page.

  6. Pricing

    Start planning your Castles along the Rhine (2023) trip with all the sailing dates, prices by category and current offers on one page.

  7. Review of Castles along the Rhine with Uniworld

    River Cruising. Review of Castles along the Rhine with Uniworld. I sailed on Uniworlds SS Antoinette June 10-17. Prior to the cruise we did the pre-extension to Lucerne and post cruise with did the extension in Amsterdam. We were meet at the airport by a Uniworld rep and the ride to the hotel took about an hour from Zurich airport to Lucerne.

  8. Castles along the Rhine Reviews

    Find inspiration in the romantic, soul-stirring beauty of the fabled Rhine River, with landscapes celebrated by generations of poets, painters, and composers. Beethoven and By Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

  9. Castles Along the Rhine

    Grand Christmas & New Year's Cruise. 13 Days Nuremberg Budapest. Operated By: Uniworld. From 9,013. Save 2,086. Read 7 reviews and enjoy exclusive savings with Global Journeys on Uniworld's 8 Day Castles Along the Rhine beginning your journey in Amsterdam and travelling through to Basel. 2024 & 2025 season departures.

  10. Castles along the Rhine

    A mighty river carries ships and cargo through a landscape shaped by time and history. The spires of Medieval churches and castles appear around each bend in the river, and vineyards climb the verdant hillsides. Cruise along the Rhine—Germany on one side, France on the other—and savor French joie de vivre and German Gemütlichkeit .

  11. Uniworld River Cruises

    Join Uniworld CEO, Ellen Bettridge, on the June 16th, 2024 sailing of Castles Along the Rhine on the S.S. Victoria. Enjoy unique activities and a few special surprises planned just for this cruise. Enjoy unique activities and a few special surprises planned just for this cruise.

  12. CASTLES ALONG THE RHINE RIVER & SPLENDORS OF ITALY

    CASTLES ALONG THE RHINE RIVER & SPLENDORS OF ITALY. Code: MC-31722. 20 Day Fly, Stay & Cruise Holiday with $4000 Bonus Value Including City Stay, Exclusive Package Savings & More. Exclusive Itinerary. $4000 Bonus Value. Sail | May 2025. Package Itinerary Accommodation Sail Dates Important Info.

  13. Ship Details

    2024/2025. One of the most unique ships cruising Europe's waterways, the River Queen has an exterior resembling the steamships of the 1930s and an elegant Art Deco interior. Decorated in richly textured blue and white fabrics—with marble bathrooms and inspiring artwork— River Queen is a sublime floating hotel designed with your every ...

  14. The best river cruises around the world for 2024

    A river cruise remains the best way to reach deeper into the jungle, with many cruises beginning in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus or in the Peruvian city of Lima. Start in Peru's ...

  15. Switzerland

    Switzerland is your entry into a pinch-me-I-must-be-dreaming landscape of soaring mountains, tranquil valleys, and miles and miles of untouched nature.

  16. Central Europe

    The castle-dotted hills and richly forested lands that gave birth to Snow White and Rapunzel are as quaint today as they were when the tales were first written hundreds of years ago. At the same time, Central Europe is home to dazzling metropolitan cities and grand palaces. At once classic and contemporary, the delights of Central Europe—beautiful vineyards, delicious local cuisines, and ...

  17. The best river cruises for a boutique European cruising experience

    RIVER CRUISES WITH GH. From the Douro to the Rhine, Europe has some of the world's most scenic rivers that are best experienced on a small ship, where you can sail from little towns to historic ...

  18. 2024

    2024: Find inspiration in the romantic, soul-stirring beauty of the fabled Rhine River, with landscapes celebrated by generations of poets, painters, and composers. Welcome to Uniworld's Australia website.

  19. Extensions

    Our carefully curated pre- and post-cruise/tour extensions make it easy to add a few days to the front or back end of your Castles along the Rhine (2024) trip, while leaving the planning to us.

  20. Danube River Cruises

    The Danube is Europe's second longest river. Like the Rhine, the Danube has played a significant role throughout history and has inspired artists, poets and musicians for centuries.