River cruises in wine country offer stunning views of vineyards and the chance to taste some of the world's best wines, learn about the wine-making process, and explore the vineyards and cellars of local wineries.
Wine Country
River Cruises
RIVER CRUISES / WINE COUNTRY CRUISES
5 of the Best Wine Country River Cruises
These cruises offer an exceptional experience for wine enthusiasts by navigating through some of Europe’s most renowned wine-producing regions. Whether you're gliding along the Dordogne, the Douro, or the Rhine, each journey takes you through picturesque landscapes that have been perfecting the art of winemaking for centuries. The regions are celebrated not just for their stunning scenery but for their rich viticultural heritage, producing some of the world's finest wines. From robust reds to crisp whites and exquisite dessert wines, the vineyards you pass offer a glimpse into the diverse and vibrant wine culture that defines these areas.
Onboard, Uniworld takes this experience to another level with a carefully curated wine menu that reflects the flavors of the local destinations you visit. Their expert sommeliers select wines that complement the region's culinary offerings, providing a seamless blend of local culture and taste. These thoughtfully chosen wines are included in your all-inclusive package, allowing you to savor the essence of the region with every meal. Whether you're enjoying a glass of Bordeaux on the deck or sampling a Port with dessert, Uniworld ensures that your journey is as much a celebration of the palate as it is of the sights.
1. A Bordeaux River Cruise Through France
Bordeaux in southwest France is home to some of the world's most famous wines. A river cruise through this region takes you through scenic landscapes and charming towns, where you can sample some of the best wines in the world.
2. A Douro River Cruise, Portugal
The Douro Valley in Portugal is one of the oldest wine regions in the world, famous for its port wine. A river cruise through this region allows you to visit vineyards and cellars and learn about the wine-making process.
3. A Cruise Through France AND Portugal
Embarking on a river cruise through France and Portugal offers an unparalleled experience where the warm Southern European climates and historic landscapes of Bordeaux and Portugal complement their renowned wine traditions. Indulge in robust reds and sweet dessert wines like Sauternes and Port, while visiting French chateaux and quintas in the Douro River Valley to connect with local vintners.
4. A Rhine River Cruise Through Germany
Cruise through Germany's famous wine region, the Rhine Valley. Along the way, you'll visit historic towns such as Heidelberg and Cologne and enjoy wine tastings at local vineyards.
5. Danube River Cruise, Austria and Hungary
The Danube River runs through some of Europe's most beautiful wine regions, including Austria's Wachau Valley and Hungary's Tokaj region. A river cruise through this area allows you to taste local wines, explore charming towns and villages, and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
Want to go somewhere really unique?
Book a Cruise Through the Venetian Lagoon
Taking a cruise to the Venice Lagoon is an excellent choice for wine enthusiasts because it offers easy access to the nearby Veneto region, renowned for its world-class vineyards and diverse wine production, including Prosecco, Amarone, and Soave. Cruising allows you to explore picturesque vineyard landscapes, visit historic wineries, and enjoy tasting sessions in charming countryside settings, while sleeping right on the lagoon in the most luxurious of settings.
Book a Mekong River Cruise Through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam
The Mekong River flows through Southeast Asia's lush and tropical wine regions. A river cruise along the Mekong allows you to explore the vineyards of Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam while experiencing the local cultures and cuisines.
Why go on a wine country river cruise with Uniworld?
A Uniworld cruise transforms your journey into a culinary adventure with a specially curated wine menu that brings the local flavors of each destination to life. Their expert sommeliers carefully select wines that not only complement the region’s cuisine but also enhance your overall experience, creating a perfect fusion of taste and culture. With these exquisite wines included in your all-inclusive package, you can savor the essence of the region with every sip, whether you’re enjoying a glass of Bordeaux as you drift along scenic waterways or indulging in a rich Port paired with a decadent dessert. Uniworld ensures that your voyage is a feast for the senses, making every moment as delicious as it is memorable.
18 Day Cruise from Bordeaux to Lisbon
Uniworld River Cruises
From
$10,174
$8,834
Save Up To $2,750
8 Day Cruise from Bordeaux to Bordeaux
From
$5,119
$2,799
Save Up To $2,460
8 Day Cruise from Porto to Porto
From
$6,229
$4,679
Save Up To $1,550
8 Day Cruise from Venice to Venice
From
$5,559
$3,199
Save Up To $2,360
10 Day Cruise from Milan to Venice
From
$4,599
8 Day Cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg
From
$4,779
$3,329
Save Up To $1,540
8 Day Cruise from Arles to Lyon
From
$4,939
$3,599
Save Up To $2,860
8 Day Cruise from Budapest to Passau
From
$4,874
$3,059
Save Up To $1,905
15 Day Cruise from Arles to Paris
Uniworld River Cruises
From
$9,899
$7,199
Save Up To $3,010
8 Day Cruise from Paris to Paris
From
$5,259
$3,869
Save Up To $1,560
15 Days Cruise from Bordeaux to Paris
Uniworld River Cruises
From
$9,269
$6,749
Save Up To $2,790
8 Day Cruise from Basel to Amsterdam
From
$5,119
$2,959
Save Up To $3,240
11 Day Cruise from Porto to Lisbon
From
$7,029
$5,399
Save Up To $1,630
Uniworld Sample Wine Menu
Sommeliers select fine local wines in each destination you visit.
On a river cruise in France, you might enjoy:
- Château Pas De Loup Bordeaux
This Cabernet Sauvignon wine has a deep and vivid color. On the nose the cherry notes are harmoniously combined with wild berries. The palate is balanced and powerful. - Fonvène Vignerons Ardèchois Ardèche
This Cabernet Sauvignon wine has a deep and vivid color. On the nose the cherry notes are harmoniously combined with wild berries. The palate is balanced and powerful. - Chardonnay Les Jamelles Vin De Pays d’Oc
This Chardonnay wine has an expressive citrus, pears and subtle minerality aromas. It masters a good balance and a pure silk long finish. - Blanc de Mer Bouchard Finlayson
Blend of mostly Riesling grapes blend, the wine is a fresh and sprightly with fresh citrus and quince flavors.
On a river cruise in Italy, you might enjoy:
- Monteleone Cabernet Sauvignon, Albinea Nanali, Veneto
This Cabernet Sauvignon wine has a deep and vivid color. On the nose the cherry notes are harmoniously combined with wild berries. The palate is balanced and powerful. - Chianti DOCG, Banfi, Tuscany
This wine is blend composed of Sangiovese, a traditional Tuscan grape and Canaiolo, offering an intense and fruity, with scents of wild berries and cherries combined with the species and vanilla notes. - Trentino Alto Adige, Pinot Grigio, Trento
This delicious and structured Pinot Grigio wine opens with an intensely floral, white peach, apple, pear, and minerality note. - “Sauvignon delle Venezie” Tenuta Mosole Veneto
This Sauvignon Blanc attracts through a bright straw yellow color and greenish reflexes. It has traces of vegetables, tomato leaves and a broad, rich soft taste with traces of exotic fruits.
On a river cruise through Central Europe, you might enjoy:
- Blauburger Madl Niederösterreicho
Dark berries and tobacco aromas on the nose. The wine has an elegant long finish with a compact taste of blackcurrant and some oak. - Zweigelt “L” Gmeiner Wagram
Characteristically fermented Zweigelt in stainless steel tank. Ripe flavors of plum and blackberries and an elegant finish. - Riesling "R“ Kessler Rheingau
Attractive, clean, light floral and fruit aromas suggest peaches lemon and green apple with a tart racy taste give a smooth, long finish. - Weisburgunder Kirchner Pfalz
Elegantly balanced wine, inviting stone fruits at the base, ripe honeydew melon, striking minerality with a touch of garden herbs.
Frequently Asked Questions About River Cruises Through Wine Country
You should pack comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for the climate and activities in the region. You may also want to pack dressier attire for dinners and special events on the cruise. Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses for sunny days, and a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
While river cruises through wine country are typically geared towards adults, Uniworld offers select Generational Sailings with family-friendly options catering to children. Before booking, check with your GET Travel Specialist to see if the cruise you're interested in offers activities and amenities suitable for families.
Activities on a river cruise through wine country may include wine tastings and vineyard tours, sightseeing in historic towns and cities, cultural experiences, and onboard entertainment and activities such as cooking classes or dance lessons.
You can check out our frequently asked questions about Uniworld River Cruises in Europe or reach out to your GET Travel Specialist.
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