Explore Europe In Style With TUI’s Summer River Cruises

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises.

If you’re still looking for your summer getaway, I wouldn’t just recommend ocean cruises – river cruises are another fantastic option that should be in contention.

And if you’ve thought about a river cruise before but been put off by the high costs, then you need to check out TUI’s river cruises for the summer months.

They offer exceptional value, letting you enjoy thrilling itineraries without breaking the bank and giving you an amazing experience as you travel.

In this guide, I’ll pick out some of the best itineraries you can enjoy on a TUI river cruise, and explain what makes TUI’s cruises such good value.

Book your river cruise now for big savings

Up to £200 extra off on summer 2024 sailings!

TUI Europe River Cruises

Here’s a selection of the best itineraries you can book with TUI this summer:

Rhine Explorer

Begin your Rhine journey by exploring the historic Anne Frank House and the vibrant Flower Market in Amsterdam, with time to explore the city at night as it’s an overnight stay.

As the cruise takes you to Cologne, marvel at the imposing Cologne Cathedral and stroll through the Old Town with its quaint cobblestone streets. Explore the city’s museums, such as the Chocolate Museum or the Roman-Germanic Museum, offering a blend of history and sweetness.

Next, arrive in Koblenz, where you’ll discover the stunning Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, before continuing your journey to Speyer. Here you can visit the impressive Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore the Historical Museum of the Palatinate. In Strasbourg, savor the unique blend of French and German influences, highlighted by the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral and the charming La Petite France district.

As the cruise reaches Breisach, take a scenic excursion to the Black Forest, famous for its dense woodlands and cuckoo clocks. Conclude your journey in Basel, Switzerland, exploring the city’s Old Town, Rhine promenade, and enjoying the diverse cultural offerings at the Kunstmuseum Basel.

Danube Treasures

Set sail on a captivating river cruise along the Danube, beginning in the enchanting city of Budapest.

You’ll cruise to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, where you can wander through the charming Old Town. Discover landmarks like the St. Martin’s Cathedral and the impressive Bratislava Castle, offering insights into the city’s rich history and culture.

Next, arrive in Durnstein, a picturesque town in the Wachau Valley. Explore the medieval Durnstein Castle and enjoy the scenic vineyards surrounding the area. Cruise to Melk, where the imposing Melk Abbey stands proudly. Tour the abbey to marvel at its baroque architecture and extensive library.

Continuing along the Danube, arrive in Linz, known for its vibrant arts scene. Visit the Ars Electronica Center and explore the Lentos Art Museum, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary art.

Sail to Vienna, the “City of Music,” where you’ll spend two days exploring its cultural riches. Visit the opulent Schönbrunn Palace, the historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and attend a classical concert for a taste of Vienna’s musical legacy. Stroll through the grandeur of Belvedere Palace and Gardens, and savor the renowned Sachertorte in a traditional Viennese coffeehouse.

The river cruise concludes back in Budapest for another overnight stay. Take in the city’s thermal baths, explore the Great Market Hall, and marvel at the architectural wonders of the Hungarian Parliament Building before bidding farewell to this unforgettable experience.

East Danube Explorer

Discover the eastern Danube on this thrilling river cruise from Budapest.

Sail to Kalocsa, known for its colorful folk traditions and the stunning Kalocsa Cathedral. Immerse yourself in the town’s cultural richness, from paprika harvesting to traditional embroidery.

Next on the itinerary is Novi Sad, a Serbian gem on the banks of the Danube. Wander through the Petrovaradin Fortress and explore the charming Old Town, showcasing a mix of Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman influences.

Cruise through the breathtaking Iron Gates, a natural wonder and a highlight of the Danube, before reaching Donji Milanovac. Explore this Serbian town, with its archaeological sites and scenic surroundings.

Continue to the vibrant city of Belgrade, where the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers creates a dynamic atmosphere. Discover the historic Belgrade Fortress and stroll along the bustling Knez Mihailova Street.

As the cruise sails to Vukovar, Croatia, delve into the town’s poignant history, marked by the Croatian War of Independence. Explore the Eltz Castle and the city’s reconstructed landmarks.

The journey concludes back in Budapest, where you can enjoy landmarks, indulge in local cuisine, and appreciate the memories created during this captivating river cruise.

The Moselle Valley – Vines & Views

Begin your enchanting journey through the picturesque Moselle Valley in Frankfurt. Delve into the historic charm of the city, exploring the Römer and the Palmengarten. As the cruise sets sail to Koblenz, witness the scenic beauty of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal.

Arriving in Koblenz, embrace the convergence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the Deutsches Eck. You’ll then cruise to Traben-Trarbach, known for its art nouveau architecture and impressive wine cellars. Immerse yourself in the town’s viticultural heritage, perhaps with a visit to the underground wine vaults.

The journey continues to Trier, Germany’s oldest city. Marvel at the well-preserved Porta Nigra and explore the ancient Roman amphitheatre. As you cruise to Bernkastel-Kues, prepare to be captivated by the medieval charm of the twin towns on the Moselle.

In Cochem, a fairytale-like destination awaits with the iconic Reichsburg Castle overlooking the town. Breathe in the vineyard-draped hillsides as the cruise progresses to Boppard, where you can wander along the Rhine promenade.

Oberwesel beckons with its well-preserved medieval city walls and towers. Explore the picturesque town and learn about its rich history before concluding the Moselle Valley cruise back in Frankfurt.

North Rhine & Netherlands Explorer

Embark on a delightful Rhine River cruise, beginning in charming Amsterdam. You’ll be able to take in the history of Dam Square and the Royal Palace, then dive into art at the Van Gogh Museum. Cruise Amsterdam’s iconic canals or opt for a canal tour to see the city’s unique architecture.

The next day, you’ll explore the lively Jordaan district and, in the spring, enjoy the blooming beauty of Keukenhof Gardens.

As the cruise moves to Rotterdam, you’ll be amazed by modern architecture like the Cube Houses and the famous Erasmus Bridge. Immerse yourself in the dynamic Markthal and take a harbor tour to see one of the world’s biggest ports.

Travel to Dusseldorf, where the historic Old Town will invite you with cobblestone streets, and the Rhine Tower will provide fantastic city views. In the afternoon, you’ll delight in shopping on Königsallee and exploring contemporary art at Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen.

Bonn, known for Beethoven, will offer cultural visits to the Beethoven House and Haus der Geschichte. As the cruise sails to Koblenz, you’ll explore the historic Old Town and go up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for breathtaking views.

Continuing to Boppard and Rudesheim, you’ll experience medieval charm and wine-tasting in the Drosselgasse. The journey will end in Frankfurt, where you can explore the Römer and Städel Museum, wrapping up a splendid trip along the Rhine River.

Final Word

There are over 100 river cruise options you could enjoy between March and October 2024 with TUI, so you’re hardly short of choice.

These itineraries are some of the best examples, but whichever you choose you will enjoy exceptional service including all your food, drinks with meals, entertainment, WiFi, tips and more – all covered in the cruise fare along with your flights and transfers.

Just make sure you book as early as possible to help secure the best deal you can.