Riviera Travel Announces Extensive Festive Programme and River Cruise Extensions

Christmas may only seem like yesterday, and whilst most of us are looking forward to some summer sunshine, it’s never too early to start planning our winter adventures.

Riviera Travel has revealed its most extensive festive programme yet, along with enticing options for extended land stays. Set to launch in December 2025, this offering promises unforgettable experiences for travellers seeking to celebrate the holiday season in style.

The Christmas and New Year cruises for 2025 are set to dazzle passengers with 37 departure options across six enchanting itineraries along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Whether it’s the magical Yuletide Markets along the Rhine or the Imperial Cities beckoning from the Danube, there’s a journey to suit every taste and preference.

Here’s a glimpse into what Riviera Travel has in store:

• Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets: A five-day journey through Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Bonn, and Cologne, offering 13 departures in December, starting from £999pp.

• The Danube’s Imperial Cities & Yuletide Markets: A six-day exploration of Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava, with 11 departures in December, starting from £1,199pp.

• Christmas on the Rhine: An eight-day extravaganza featuring Cologne, Koblenz, Strasbourg, and more, departing on 21 and 22 December 2025, starting from £2,299pp.

• Christmas on the Danube: An eight-day adventure encompassing Budapest, Salzburg, Vienna, and beyond, departing on 21 and 22 December 2025, starting from £2,299pp.

• New Year on the Rhine: A six-day journey through Cologne, Rudesheim, Frankfurt, and beyond, departing on 28 and 29 December 2025, starting from £1,899pp.

• New Year on the Danube: A six-day celebration visiting Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, and more, departing on 28 and 29 December 2025, starting from £1,899pp.

Moreover, Riviera Travel offers extended land stays for six river itineraries, following the resounding success of these options introduced in 2023. Travellers can indulge in immersive experiences tailored to their interests, including visits to iconic landmarks and cultural attractions. Here are some highlights:

• The Blue Danube with Budapest or Vienna extension

• Rhine Cruise to Switzerland with Glacier Express extension

• Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence River Cruise with Lake Geneva and Golden Pass extension

• Highlights of the Douro Valley and Salamanca River Cruise with Lisbon extension

• Douro, Porto and Salamanca River Cruise with Porto extension

Each extension offers a unique blend of cultural immersion and scenic exploration, ensuring a truly enriching holiday experience. With full-board river cruises, expert cruise directors, and accompanying tour managers for extensions, guests can rest assured of a seamless and memorable journey.

Will Sarson, Head of Product at Riviera Travel, said, “Celebrating the Christmas and New Year period on a river cruise is a truly special experience. Our diverse range of itineraries and land stay extensions offer endless opportunities to immerse oneself in the festive spirit and explore Europe’s enchanting cities.”

For those eager to embark on a holiday adventure like no other, visit rivieratravel.co.uk or call 01283 523431 for more information.

With Riviera Travel, the magic of the festive season awaits, promising unforgettable memories and delightful discoveries along Europe’s picturesque waterways.