Great Rail Journeys, the UK’s leading escorted tour provider, has announced three brand new luxury river cruises along the Rhine and Douro – with departures from November 2025 through to October 2026.
These new itineraries offer five-star experiences with exclusive excursions, gourmet dining and early booking offers of up to £500pp (available until 30 June).
Great Rail Journeys, the leading provider of escorted tours, today announces three new luxury river cruises, with itineraries along the Rhine and Douro.
Customers cruising along the Rhine will be sure to get into the festive spirit with off-ship excursions to Christmas markets in Cologne, Koblenz, Bonn and Rüdesheim.
Along the Douro, customers will gain fascinating insight into Portuguese culture, visiting riverside villages, tasting local ports and enjoying spellbinding sunsets.
With inaugural voyages starting in November 2025 through to October 2026, all three exclusively chartered ships boast elegant cabins, locally-inspired dining and exquisite hospitality.
For those looking to make five-star memories, customers can take advantage of Great Rail Journeys’ early booking offer, saving up to £500pp on these new river cruises when booked before 30 June 2025.
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
Festive Markets of the Rhine
From £1,399 per person*
Set sail on a magical Christmas river cruise along the Rhine, exploring festive markets, charming towns, and scenic beauty, with Christmas cheer around every bend.
From the twinkling lights of Koblenz’s historic streets to the captivating markets of Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, and Strasbourg, each port offers seasonal charm and rich heritage.
Departures: 26 & 30 November 2025
Exclusive Golden Douro
From £3,399 per person*
Embark on a luxurious Douro cruise along the port wine route aboard a brand-new, custom-built ship. Leaving Porto after a sensational sunset cruise, the MS Estrela sails into Portugal’s golden Douro Valley, visiting Lamego Cathedral, Castelo Rodrigo, Salamanca and Mateus Palace.
Delve deeper into local culture with language and history lessons – as well as a barbecue on the sundeck.
Departures: 7 May, 25 June, 8 October 2026
For those eager to embark on a journey through Europe’s most enchanting rivers this summer, Great Rail Journeys has also handpicked some of its customers’ favourite river cruises. From the hidden gems of Hungary and Slovakia, to the beauty of Southern France, guests are spoilt for choice on where to explore next.
Delights of the Danube
From £2,999 per person*
Uncover the gems of Hungary, Slovakia and Austria on a luxurious Danube river cruise. Explore the fascinating cities of Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, spend a day in historic Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, or explore the fairytale Czech town of Český Krumlov.
Conclude your journey in the picturesque Bavarian city of Passau, indulging in local cuisine and some of the region’s finest wines.
The Majestic Rhine
From £1,999 per person*
Embark on a captivating journey through the heart of Europe on this Rhine river cruise from Switzerland to Amsterdam.Sail from Switzerland to the waters of the North Sea, drifting by forested valleys and charming riverside towns.
Enjoy guided tours of medieval German towns and explore remarkable cities in France and the Netherlands, adorned with stunning castles, lush forests, and sprawling vineyards.
Provence & the Elegant Rhône
From £2,099 per person*
Discover the timeless elegance of France’s beautiful Rhône and Saone rivers, admiring the beauty of Southern France’s landscapes while cruising in luxury.
Indulge in the finest Burgundy wines in Beaune, discover the gastronomic delights of Lyon, and explore the City of Popes, Avignon.
* Dates and prices are subject to availability. Prices listed are based on a two-person booking and are subject to change. Itinerary may differ depending on departure date. For full terms and conditions, please visit greatrail.com/offers.
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