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January 9, 2026

Imagine spending 21 days of luxury and discovery aboard the Riverside Debussy, cruising along three of Europe’s most legendary rivers: the Rhine, the Main, and the Danube. From the vibrant heart of Amsterdam to the mysterious lands of Serbia and Romania, this unique itinerary combines breathtaking landscapes, iconic cities, and enchanting villages in a journey that will remain in your memory for a lifetime.

Onboard the Riverside Debussy, guests enjoy exclusive comfort, timeless elegance, and top-tier services, including luxurious cabins, gourmet dining, relaxation areas, and cultural activities. Yet the true treasure of this itinerary lies in the richness of the onshore experiences: each stop tells centuries of history, art, and local traditions, from Europe’s great capitals to lesser-known towns that guard ancient secrets.

The adventure begins in magical Amsterdam, known as the “Venice of the North,” capital of the Netherlands and a symbol of the country’s prosperity during the Golden Age of the 16th and 17th centuries. With over 100 kilometers of canals, the city offers picturesque and romantic views, making a canal cruise an essential experience. Strolling through its streets, visitors can admire majestic 17th-century canal houses, the Royal Palace, the Anne Frank House, and masterpieces housed in the Rijksmuseum. For those seeking a livelier experience, the Heineken Experience and the famous Red Light District add a touch of modernity and vibrancy to the city. On the second day, a short cruise brings travelers to Utrecht, a medieval city with a historic heart full of charm. Climbing the cathedral tower provides spectacular views over the red rooftops and surrounding canals, while the lively squares and cafés invite guests to pause and savor the rhythm of Dutch life, blending history and contemporary culture.

The journey continues into Germany, along the Rhine and Main rivers, where modernity coexists with ancient historical landmarks. Düsseldorf, an international and dynamic city, surprises visitors with its history and cultural attractions: St. Lambertus Church with its distinctive twisted tower, the old fortress, and Germany’s oldest inland navigation museum. Beer enthusiasts will find a tasting of Altbier indispensable, an experience that combines centuries-old tradition with local flavor. Further along the Rhine, the cruise reaches Rüdesheim, a romantic wine village nestled in the Rheingau region, renowned for its Riesling vineyards and the picturesque Drosselgasse, a street lined with historic taverns and artisan shops. A cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument offers a spectacular view over the Rhine Valley, a landscape that seems straight out of a fairytale.

The journey continues toward Miltenberg and Freudenberg, two small towns that reveal a more intimate side of Germany, with their half-timbered houses, medieval castles, and fairytale-like atmosphere. Karlstadt, founded by the Franks and associated with Charlemagne, and Würzburg, with its majestic Marienberg Fortress and the magnificent Würzburg Residenz, tell stories of centuries of German life and commerce, offering glimpses of a past that intertwines with contemporary culture. Upon arriving in Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city presents itself as a medieval jewel with its four-towered cathedral, the canals of the Little Venice district, and its famous smoked beer, all elements that make the stay a perfect immersion into history and local tradition.

Moving further along, the journey enters Franconia and Bavaria. Nürnberg blends the beauty of the Middle Ages with a more recent past linked to the Nuremberg Trials: strolling through the walls of the old town and exploring Nuremberg Castle is an experience that intertwines art, memory, and history. Nearby, Roth preserves architectural treasures such as the late-Gothic church and the historic Riffelmacherhaus, while Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, with its Stone Bridge over the Danube and cobbled streets, allows travelers to feel the history of the merchants and bishops who shaped its fame.

Crossing the Danube, the journey enters Austria, where Passau, the city of three rivers, captivates with St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Europe’s largest organ. Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, reveals itself as a surprising cultural hub, with museums and local delicacies such as the renowned Linzer Torte, considered the world’s first cake. Continuing through the Wachau Valley, the landscape unfolds in a sequence of terraced vineyards and apricot orchards, until reaching Melk, where the Baroque abbey dominates the scene with its impressive architecture and the precious library of ancient manuscripts. The next stop, Vienna, invites travelers to immerse themselves in the elegance and history of a city that has hosted emperors and great composers: grand palaces, historic cafés, and the timeless melodies of Mozart and Strauss make the Austrian capital an unforgettable experience.

The Danube then carries the journey into Hungary, with Budapest, the city of two worlds. Here, every corner tells a story: from Buda Castle to Heroes’ Square, from historic thermal baths to the Jewish quarter, and passing by the impressive Parliament building. Continuing toward Mohács, travelers encounter a land rich in history and tradition, famous for the battles that shaped the region and for the lively Busójárás Carnival, a celebration of music, masks, and folklore that revives ancient rituals to chase away winter. In Serbia, Novi Sad impresses with Petrovaradin Fortress and its vibrant cultural life, earning the nickname “Serbian Athens.” Belgrade, where the Danube and Sava converge, fascinates with its energy, historic buildings, and Kalemegdan Fortress, as well as the magnificent Church of Saint Sava. In Donji Milanovac, within the dramatic Veliki Kazan gorge and the Iron Gates National Park, nature takes center stage: the archaeological site of Lepenski Vir, with its ancient sculptures and tools dating back 9,000 years, tells the story of advanced civilizations and offers a unique spectacle in Europe.

The itinerary concludes in Bulgaria and Romania, in Vidin and Giurgiu. Vidin stands out for the imposing Baba Vida Fortress and a rich architectural heritage spanning from the Roman to the Ottoman era, and is also renowned for its wine production. Giurgiu, an important river hub along the Danube, evokes the history of the Orient Express and the progress symbolized by the Friendship Bridge connecting Romania and Bulgaria, a witness to centuries of cultural and commercial exchange. Cruising these rivers, between famous cities and lesser-known villages, offers three unforgettable weeks of discovery, culture, gastronomy, and breathtaking scenery, in a journey that will remain etched in memory for a lifetime.

The experience aboard the Riverside Debussy goes far beyond that of a simple cruise: it is a true floating hotel, where luxury, comfort, and refined atmospheres blend harmoniously. Each cabin and suite is designed as a personal sanctuary, elegant and welcoming, with large windows that provide a constant view of the river, allowing guests to immerse themselves in ever-changing landscapes, from the rolling hills of Franconia to the historic banks of the Danube. Meticulously crafted furnishings, high-quality fabrics, and intelligent design solutions ensure maximum comfort and privacy, while soft lighting and well-arranged spaces create a relaxing atmosphere, perfect after a day spent exploring cities and villages.

The panoramic lounges form the social heart of the ship, spaces where guests can meet, chat, and enjoy the slowly passing scenery. Here, amidst elegant armchairs and floor-to-ceiling windows, one can sip a coffee, cocktail, or glass of local wine, listening to live music or simply letting the gentle rhythm of the river lull them into relaxation. Dining on board is another highlight: menus, curated by experienced chefs, combine traditional European dishes with fresh, local ingredients, offering a gastronomic journey that complements and enriches the itinerary. Every meal becomes an opportunity to savor authentic and refined flavors, perhaps accompanied by a selection of wines specifically chosen to enhance each course.

The onboard experience also includes cultural and wellness moments designed to make the cruise truly unique. Morning yoga sessions on the deck, guided tastings of local wines and spirits, classical music concerts evoking the traditions of the cities visited, and meetings with local experts allow guests to experience each stop with greater depth. In every activity—from art to gastronomy, from music to movement, the attention to detail is evident: the staff operates discreetly yet professionally, ready to meet every need and transform every moment into a lasting memory.

Sailing aboard the Riverside Debussy means embarking on a journey that seamlessly blends the beauty of European landscapes with the exclusive comfort of an environment meticulously designed in every detail. This 21-day itinerary along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers, including stops in Serbia and Romania, with departures scheduled for May and September 2026, offers the opportunity to explore historic cities, cultural sites, local traditions, and natural scenery along some of Europe’s most iconic waterways.

Don’t miss news, updates, and reviews of Riverside Luxury Cruises on Cruising Journal, featuring photos, videos, and special cruise offers.

Giorgia Lombardo

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