With departures still available across Europe, Asia and Egypt, now is a great time to start looking at what’s out there, particularly for those wanting something a little more immersive.
River cruising works differently to larger ocean sailings. You unpack once and sail straight through the heart of destinations. One morning you could be waking up to vineyard-covered hillsides along the Douro or medieval towns along the Rhine, another you could be exploring ancient temples rising beside the banks of the Nile.
From the temples of Egypt to the floating markets of Vietnam and the vineyard-lined valleys of Portugal, these six Travelmarvel journeys prove river cruising can be one of the most immersive and relaxing ways to see the world in 2026.
Even better, Cruise Collective members can save up to 10% on all Travelmarvel bookings.
Follow the Mekong Through Vietnam & Cambodia
Few journeys combine culture, history and scenery quite like the Mekong.
Travelmarvel’s Essential Vietnam & Cambodia itinerary combines the energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the floating villages and riverside communities of the Mekong, and the incredible temples of Angkor Wat into one unforgettable journey.
It’s the kind of trip where every day feels completely different. One moment you’re exploring bustling local markets, the next you’re drifting past quiet rural landscapes watching life unfold along the riverbanks.
For anyone wanting a more immersive way to experience Asia, this is hard to beat.
Sail through 5,000 years of history on The Nile
Some journeys earn the word iconic and cruising the Nile is one of them.
Travelmarvel’s Treasures of Egypt & the Nile itinerary brings together Cairo, the Pyramids and the ancient wonders of Luxor and Aswan with the experience of sailing along the world’s most famous river, aboard Travelmarvel's brand-new Egypt river ship, Travelmarvel Sirius.
There’s something very special about seeing Egypt from the water. Temples rise dramatically from the riverbanks, golden desert landscapes stretch into the distance, and every stop feels connected to thousands of years of history.
And while Nile cruising continues to grow in popularity, there are still opportunities to experience this iconic journey in 2026, especially for travellers looking for something a little more meaningful than a standard fly-and-flop holiday.
Discover Europe’s storybook rivers along The Rhine & Moselle
If your idea of Europe includes vineyard-covered hillsides, medieval towns and castles watching over the river, the Rhine and Moselle deliver all of it.
This itinerary is packed with the kind of scenery river cruising does best; charming riverside towns, historic cities and relaxed days sailing through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes.
It’s also one of the easiest ways to explore multiple destinations without constantly moving hotels or navigating busy transport hubs.
Experience The Rhine & Main at a slower pace
There’s a reason the Rhine remains one of Europe’s most popular river cruise routes.
Travelmarvel’s Reflections of the Rhine & Main itinerary neatly ties together cultural cities with quieter riverside towns and scenic cruising days that remind you why slowing down is often the best way to travel.
This feels like classic European river cruising in the best possible sense; relaxed, scenic and full of character.
Fall in love with Portugal’s Douro Valley
The Douro feels made for river cruising.
Terraced vineyards roll down towards the water, historic wine estates sit amongst the hillsides, and golden sunsets seem to follow you from port to port.
Travelmarvel’s Douro Discovery itinerary combines scenic sailing with Portuguese culture, food and wine, offering a more relaxed style of European escape that still feels full of experience.
For anyone looking for a river cruise with atmosphere, warmth and a very persuasive relationship with wine country, this is a strong contender for 2026.
Explore Europe’s icons in one seamless journey
Travelmarvel’s 15-day European Gems itinerary brings together some of Europe’s most iconic cities and river cruise experiences into one effortless journey.
From Budapest, Hungary’s grand capital, to elegant Vienna and some of Germany’s most beautiful towns along the Rhine River, this is the kind of itinerary that lets you experience several sides of Europe without the hassle of constantly unpacking and moving on. The journey also includes Amsterdam, where historic canals, rich culture and a laid-back atmosphere add another memorable layer to the trip.
It’s ideal for anyone wanting a broader taste of European river cruising while still enjoying the relaxed pace and scenic sailing that makes this style of travel so appealing.
Why book with Travelmarvel?
Travelmarvel combines immersive itineraries with a more relaxed style of touring, delivering a premium travel experience at exceptional value. From scenic sailing and iconic sights to authentic local experiences and included flights on selected itineraries, it’s designed for travellers who want to experience more without paying for things they simply don’t need.
Cruise Collective Member Benefit
Cruise Collective members save up to 10% on Travelmarvel bookings.
Not yet a member? Join Cruise Collective for free and unlock exclusive cruise partner savings, offers and inspiration.
Prices and availability correct at time of publishing and subject to change. Selected itineraries include return UK flights. Cruise Collective member savings and Travelmarvel booking terms and conditions apply.