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Kianna Henry
Vacation Consultant

Cover Story

April 2025

7 Reasons to Choose a River Cruise or Guided Tour for Your Next Escape

Looking for a vacation that combines cuisine, culture, and relaxation with minimal hassle? River cruises and guided tours are an extraordinary way to immerse yourself in new destinations while enjoying thoughtful touches that make travel effortless. Whether you're gliding along scenic rivers or exploring charming towns, these experiences offer the chance to see the world in truly memorable ways.

You can access amazing offers on your vacation during our Legendary Rivers & Tours Sale that runs April 25 – May 8. Check out our amazing offers now!

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Here are seven compelling reasons why a river cruise or guided tour should be your next escape.

1. Discover Rarely Seen Places

Larger ships can’t get to the hidden corners of the world—but river cruises can. These nimble vessels sail through charming waterways, past medieval towns, and under iconic bridges to places most travelers never see. Guided tours, too, take you off the beaten path to secret spots and lesser-known landmarks. If you’ve dreamed of an itinerary filled with surprises, this is it.

2. Stay Somewhere You’ll Never Forget

Accommodation can sometimes matter as much as where you go. On a river cruise, that might mean waking up to breathtaking views of riverbanks framed by castles through your stateroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows. On a guided tour, it could mean a stay in a charming inn that’s been hosting travelers for generations. Every accommodation feels personal, blending comfort with the local vibe and making each night as rich with memories as the day.


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3. Indulge in Unforgettable Food

Food is the soul of a region, and both river cruises and guided tours highlight it with style. Onboard dining celebrates regional flavors with carefully-curated menus and fine wines, creating meals you'll never forget. Out and about, you’ll feast on authentic dishes crafted with locally-sourced ingredients, whether from a Michelin-starred restaurant or a bustling street vendor.


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4. Travel Deeper in One Journey

Why settle for one destination when you can explore many? With river cruises, you’ll step straight from your ship into the heart of a city or village, ready to discover its streets and culture. Guided tours, meanwhile, are designed to give you meaningful time in multiple locations, letting you fully soak in the sights and sounds without feeling rushed. Every day brings a new adventure.


5. Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Want to truly connect with a destination? With both river cruises and guided tours, you’ll peel back the layers of local culture. Get to know the stories behind regional dishes, traditions, and daily life. Picture yourself chatting with local artisans in a tucked-away market or savoring a family recipe that’s been passed down for generations. These are moments you won’t find on your average itinerary.


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6. Smaller Spaces, Bigger Connections

Both river cruises and guided tours can be thoughtfully intimate. River cruises boast smaller ships, which means fewer passengers and more time to truly relax. Guided tours also focus on small groups, creating an opportunity to connect with fellow travelers who share your interests. Whether it’s a morning coffee on deck or a shared laugh in a cozy café, these journeys bring people closer together in very special ways.

7. Travel Without the Stress

Imagine having your entire vacation perfectly planned for you, from where you’ll stay to how you’ll get there. River cruises and guided tours take care of all the logistics so you can focus on enjoying yourself. Plus, most itineraries offer flexibility, meaning you can still tailor your experience to fit your travel style. All the ease, none of the stress.

Whether you’re navigating through charming riverside villages, exploring vibrant cities, or sharing stories with like-minded travelers, every moment will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

This is the perfect time to plan a river cruise or guided tour. Our Legendary Rivers & Tours Sale runs April 25 – May 8, so contact us now to secure your preferred itinerary and access amazing added value on a memorable journey.

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*Terms and conditions apply.

Terms & Conditions

*Expedia Extras offers are per stateroom (unless otherwise stated) on select sailings, based on double occupancy, apply to new bookings only, are not combinable with any other offer, are capacity controlled and may be withdrawn without notice. Certain restrictions may apply. For full terms and conditions, click the specific Expedia Extra offer or contact your Expedia Cruises Vacation Consultant.

Prices are per traveller, available within last 24 hours and valid for US and Canadian residents only. Taxes, fees, and port expenses are included. Fuel supplement may apply. Savings advertised and Expedia Extras are based on specific cabin types and sailing dates and may not be available for all cabin types/sailings. Availability & prices can change frequently, please continue with the booking to check latest availability & prices.

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Kianna Henry
Vacation Consultant