River cruising is ideal if you like to travel at a steady pace, see several places without constant packing and unpacking, and spend your days exploring towns and cities that sit right along the water. Routes are scenic but practical, with guided walks included and plenty of time to explore independently. From vineyard lined valleys to grand capitals, these river journeys are a great place to start.
The Danube is one of the most popular routes for good reason. Sail between cities like Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, stopping in smaller towns along the way. Expect classical music, historic centres, riverside cafés and easy walking routes straight from the ship. It’s a strong choice for a first river cruise, especially if you enjoy culture and architecture.
This route is known for castles, vineyards and storybook villages. Days are spent cruising through narrow river bends lined with medieval fortresses, with stops in places like Cologne, Rüdesheim and Strasbourg. Wine tasting, walking tours and relaxed afternoons on deck make this a scenic and rewarding option.
A Seine cruise combines countryside with one of Europe’s great cities. Travel through Normandy, visiting small towns, markets and historic sites, before finishing in Paris. It’s a good option if you like food, art and gentle scenery, with shorter sailing days and plenty of time ashore.
The Douro Valley offers a quieter, more regional experience. Cruise through terraced vineyards and rural villages, with time in Porto at either the start or end of the journey. Days focus on wine estates, local produce and relaxed walks, making this route ideal if you prefer scenery and food over busy cities.
For something further afield, the Mekong offers a very different perspective. Travel through Vietnam and Cambodia, visiting floating markets, temples and riverside communities where daily life unfolds along the water. It’s immersive, eye opening and best suited to travellers who enjoy learning about culture through everyday experiences.
Spend nine nights in the Seychelles on a relaxed island escape that balances beach time, gentle exploration and the comfort of a well located resort. Staying at Constance Ephelia on Mahé, this trip suits couples who want space, calm surroundings and the freedom to enjoy each day at their own pace, with one full day out included to see more of the islands beyond the resort.
This eighteen night journey through Malaysia and Thailand combines city sights, cultural highlights and a relaxed villa stay in one well paced route. Begin in Kuala Lumpur with guided sightseeing and time to explore the city’s landmarks, continue to Penang for beach days and local flavour, then finish in Phuket with space, privacy and time to properly unwind. It is a balanced long haul escape that moves naturally from exploring to slowing things down.
This ten night family holiday on Spain’s Costa Brava is all about space, freedom and easy summer days. Flying direct from Cork to Girona, you’ll settle into a premium two bedroom mobile home at Camping Castell Montgrí, a lively resort that works brilliantly for families who like having plenty to do on site, with beaches and coastal towns close by. It’s a relaxed, flexible way to enjoy a classic summer break without needing to plan every day.
