From the magnificent history of the Iron Gates Gorge to the romantic capital city of Bucharest, explore the extraordinary sights along the Danube River on this cruise through the heart of the Balkans.  On this long river cruise through the Balkans, we start by exploring the sights of Kalocsa?and Belgrade, with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress. Then it’s off to Pleven passing through the Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap locks before visiting Bucharest, the capital of Romania. Known as ‘Little Paris,’ this gem of a capital city will capture your heart with its romantic buildings and boulevards. Then we explore the very best of The Danube Delta and enjoy a cruise through Europe’s largest area of wetlands – a UNESCO-listed site. We visit Constan?a on the Black Sea coast, where you can explore its charming Old Town. From Ruse, either explore Veliko Tarnovo, the village of Arbanasi and the rock hewn churches at Ivanovo, or Ruse and the churches at Ivanovo and Basarbovo. From Vidin we take a scenic drive to the rock formations at Belogradchik, then we visit Lepenski Vir – one of the most important Mesolithic archaeological sites in Serbia and marvel at the views from Kapetan Mišin breg. Entering Croatia, you can choose to see Osijek & Vukovar, or take a boat ride in the Kopacki rit nature park nestled between the Danube and Drava rivers.  Finally, we discover the imperial capital city of Hungary – Budapest. 

Highlights:
Explore Belogradchik Rocks, Pleven and Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi and Ivanovo, or Ruse and the rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo & Basarbovo in Romania on guided tours. Discover the only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, Belgrade, Serbia’s second largest city, Novi Sad, and Mesolithic Lepenski Vir. Visit Romania’s Bucharest with its tree-lined boulevards, the Orthodox churches and squares that this ‘Little Paris’ has to offer, and the ancient city of Constan?a on the Black Sea coast. Marvel at the natural beauty of the Danube Delta, Europe’s largest wetlands with UNESCO status, and sail through the impressive Iron Gates Gorge. See Croatia’s Vukovar and Osijek or visit Kopacki Rit nature park, tour Hungary’s Kalosca or take a scenic drive into the Puszta to an equestrian farm, and explore the imperial city of Budapest.

What’s Included:
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of sole occupancy cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:  Full board during your cruise from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day (except lunches on full day excursions) Free drinks package Complimentary on-board tea and coffee Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary) All visits and excursions as mentioned  Coach travel as mentioned English-speaking expert guides  The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge

Facilities

• Individual climate control 
• Fixed window 
• Twin beds which can be configured as double 
• Nespresso machine and tea-making facilities 
• Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower 
• Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap 
• Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer 
• UK plug sockets and 2 USB charging points 
• Table and chairs 
• Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV 
• Safe and mini fridge 
• Turn down service 

Decks

Sun Deck
Here, you can catch the scenery change from the comfort of a sun lounger, sip cocktails on the deck and, when the sun starts to heat up, cool down with a dip in the plunge pool. Whether we're in port or sailing to our next destination, the Sun Deck is the place to relax.

Diamond Deck
The Diamond Deck is home to the social hub of the ship, the Panorama Loung and Bar. From here, you can watch the waters of one of Europe's most beautiful waterways rush by and spot the small settlements that reside on the riverbank. And, after the day's adventure, you and your sun-kissed fellow travellers will congregate here to swap stories and discuss the highlights of the day, returning here after dinner to enjoy a digestif and the evening's entertainment.

The Bistro, located at the stern, is available at no extra charge for lunch and dinner. It offers a more intimate dining experience with an open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating so you can admire the fantastic views. Here in the evenings, the chef presents his personal signature dishes to a small number of diners with menus varying according to the seasons.

All Grand Suites are located on the Diamond Deck as well as Superior Suites and Double Cabins.

Ruby Deck
The Ruby Deck can be summed up by the swish of a napkin and the clink of a glass. Our ship's main restaurant is located on the Ruby Deck, offering an exceptional service pairing seasonal menus with a glass of wine from our carefully curated wine list, including a selection of regional favourites. Our friendly and attentive staff are only too happy to help from recommendations to alternative dietary options, nothing is too much trouble. So, you can just sit back and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables of just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

You'll usually find your Riviera Travel Cruise Director in the lobby area on the Ruby Deck as well as the reception desk where the helpful staff are on hand to assist you 24 hours a day. Close by, you'll also find our boutique shop.

On the Ruby Deck are Superior Suites and Double Cabins.

Emerald Deck
On the Emerald Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or, for something less strenuous, you could treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

Each evening, head towards the bow of the Emerald Deck to enjoy a set menu in our speciality restaurant – including vegetarian and vegan options – that showcase flavours inspired by destinations across the rivers of Europe.

 All cabins on the Emerald Deck are Double Cabins. 

Unbeatable Value for Money & Honest Pricing
With 40 years of experience as the UK’s leading escorted tour operator, we can offer remarkable value on our vacations; our scale and the strong relationships we’ve built with our suppliers enables us to negotiate exceptional rates – and we pass those savings straight back to you. Our prices are fair and straightforward, with no hidden extras. Unlike many of our competitors, with us there’s no smoke and mirrors with our pricing and promotions – we just offer amazing value for money, all the time.

We’ll look after you – no matter what
We’ll always go above and beyond to make sure you can enjoy the vacations you’ve looked forward to. Almost all of our itineraries run without any issues, but occasionally we’ll be impacted by circumstances outside of our control. If this happens, rest assured that our team will take care of it; finding alternative travel options, organising hotels, and keeping you informed. We’re there for you every step of the way – so all you need to worry about is your packing.

Your vacation the Riviera Travel way – Three great reasons to choose Riviera Travel
Here are a few reasons why you can feel confident when booking a vacation with us:

1. Handcrafted vacations with authentic experiences

Like you, we love to travel. Our team of experts personally selects every aspect of your vacation so that it is thoughtfully balanced and honed to perfection. Between our exceptional fleet of ships and our handpicked hotels, you can rest assured that you'll be exploring the world in comfort.

While you travel, you're lookied after by our talented team of Tour Managers and Cruise Directors. Together, we ensure that you'll get fascinating perspectives on the culture, history, gastronomy, art and architecture of the places you visit. You'll step off the tourist trail and beyond the pages of a guide book, discovering hidden gems, mingling with the locals, and exploring lesser-known but equally beautiful places.

2. Your vacation – your way

We give you the flexibility and choice to enhance your vacation and make it your own.

Everyone’s idea of the perfect vacation is different and we like to give you the freedom to customise your travel experience. You can add on extras to your trip, such as hotel upgrades, or even extend your getaway with a Tour Extension.

On many of our vacations we also offer thoughtfully crafted itinerary choices and you may wish to personalise your trip further with one of these fascinating experiences. Just get in touch with our friendly reservations team for more information.

3. So much included

At Riviera Travel, we include everything you need for an exceptional vacation in the price. All our trips come with the services of an experienced Cruise Director on hand to ensure your getaway runs smoothly and take care of you, and unlike some of our competitors, all the guided tours, visits to attractions and experiences described in the itineraries are fully included. Plus of course, accommodation on luxury ships.

Solo River Cruises in Europe for Independent Travelers
Traveling solo doesn’t mean traveling alone. On a Riviera Travel solo-exclusive European river cruise, you’ll enjoy your own double-occupancy cabin without paying a single supplement, plus expertly guided tours and a friendly onboard atmosphere designed to help independent travelers feel right at home. It’s the perfect way for senior US travelers to explore Europe in comfort, confidence, and great company.

Why Choose a Solo River Cruise?
Solo tours can sometimes feel rushed or isolating — not here. Riviera Travel removes the stress and expense of traveling alone:

• No single supplement on selected solo cruises
• Double cabin to yourself, with stunning river views
• Daily guided excursions included
• Relaxed social atmosphere with other solo guests
• Dedicated Cruise Director to support your journey

Explore iconic European destinations with the reassurance that every detail is taken care of.

Designed for Senior Solo Travelers
Our trips are crafted for comfort and ease, making them ideal for travelers who want enriching experiences without unnecessary effort:

• Ships dock close to town centers — minimal walking to explore
• Smaller, boutique ships for a calm and friendly onboard environment
• Elevators, level access, and helpful crew
• Free time built into every itinerary for personal space

You choose how much you want to socialize — or enjoy peaceful time to yourself.

Where Can You Travel Solo?
Enjoy unforgettable views and rich cultural experiences on Europe’s most iconic rivers:

• Danube – Vienna’s imperial beauty, Budapest’s grand boulevards
• Rhine – Castles, vineyards, and charming medieval towns
• Douro – Sun-soaked Portugal and world-famous wine regions

Each itinerary offers a balance of guided exploration and relaxed sailing time.

What’s Included
One price covers everything you need:

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard
• Welcome and farewell dinners
• Daily shore excursions
• Comfortable transfers and port-to-city access
• All taxes and charges

No hidden surprises. No paying more because you’re traveling solo.