Riviera Travel, the leader in ultra-premium land and cruise global travel for over 40 years, has expanded its 2026 offerings with the introduction of a new festive cruise and new themed itineraries. Festive sailings are now available along the Seine, Rhine and Danube, with visits to charming Christmas markets, and three distinctive new culinary-focused journeys will immerse travelers in the unique flavors and hidden gems of Europe.

“For four decades, Riviera has led the industry in immersive travel, creating unforgettable journeys through expertly crafted itineraries,” said Stuart Milan, the brand’s president of North America. “Our expanded 2026 portfolio offers unmatched experiences that showcase the beauty of Europe during the holiday season, while providing travelers who have a taste for the finest global food and wine a unique new way to explore Europe’s legendary river destinations.”

From Christmas markets in Paris to exclusive wine tastings in renowned grape-growing regions, Riviera Travel’s new 2026 river cruise itineraries offer a blend of culture, history, and indulgence for every type of traveler:

2026 Festive Cruises

Among the new offerings is the Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise, a five-day voyage aboard the five-star MS Jane Austen, departing round-trip from Paris. This itinerary blends Christmas cheer and the timeless elegance of France, featuring visits to historic country estates adorned with seasonal decorations, tours of Bizy Castle with an immersive tasting experience, and explorations of three magnificent French châteaux, each with its own yuletide twist. Guests will enjoy a private evening organ concert at Vernon Cathedral and discover the charming Christmas markets of Paris amidst twinkling lights and winter landscapes. While onboard, guests will experience the pinnacle of luxury, including spacious accommodations with a window or French balcony, five-star dining with a Chef’s dinner, an all-inclusive drinks package, and access to an expert Riviera cruise director and concierge team. This new itinerary will sail exclusively in December 2026 and starts at $1,749 per person.

Riviera Travel’s coveted collection of five-star festive cruises includes the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise and Christmas on the Danube. As an industry leader in solo travel, the brand also offers dedicated festive itineraries with no single supplement across all cabins, such as The Danube’s Imperial Cities and Yuletide Markets River Cruise and the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise. Riviera’s elevated portfolio of river cruise departures explores an array of charming destinations across Europe, with land excursions in iconic Christmas markets such as Budapest, Rüdesheim, Cologne, Vienna, and now Paris.

2026 Themed Cruises

Riviera Travel is also now offering an expanded collection of gastronomy-themed cruises, continuing the brand’s commitment to immersing U.S. travelers in Europe’s best culinary experiences. In addition to its already diverse portfolio of themed departures, the following itineraries are now available to book for 2026:

Gastronomy of the Danube – An eight-day itinerary through Hungary, Slovakia and Austria, featuring 15 immersive land experiences, including sampling apple strudel at Schönbrunn Palace, tasting the wines of the world-renowned wine region of Wachau Valley, and exploring the markets of Budapest, and more. Starting at $3,399 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April and October 2026.

Gastronomy of the Rhine & Moselle — This eight-day itinerary boasts 11 included experiences to discover the rich history and culture of Germany, while indulging in the unique flavors of the region with tastings in Bernkastel, Rudesheim, and at the Koblenz Wine and Sparkling Wine Museum, starting at $3,649 per person and sailing between April and August 2026.

Gastronomy of the Seine — Travelers can discover Normandy’s culinary delights on this new eight-day itinerary, featuring 13 immersive experiences such as macaron tastings in Paris, wine and cheese pairings at Bizy Chateau and a tarte tarin cooking demonstration onboard. Starting at $2,799 per person, this cruise departs on multiple dates between April through October 2026.

For information or to book a river cruise, call 888-838-8820, email info@rivieratravel.com,