Europe Archives - Chirn Park

Relaxed Elegance at Sea: From Venice to Barcelona on Queen Victoria

Posted on June 30, 2026June 30, 2026 by Chelsea Small

One look at Queen Victoria and the excitement became very real

Some holidays are about the destination. This one was just as much about the journey.

Our adventure began with a night in Venice, wandering canals, crossing charming bridges, and enjoying long Italian dinners as gondolas drifted by. It was the perfect introduction to what would become an unforgettable Mediterranean voyage.

The next morning, we transferred to Trieste, where Queen Victoria awaited. Seeing her for the first time was a special moment. Before long, we were onboard with a welcome drink in hand, ready to set sail.

The Beautiful Queen Victoria

A Perfect Blend of Sea Days and Shore Days

From day one, what struck me most was how relaxed everything felt. Despite travelling during the busy June season, the ship never felt crowded. There were always sunbeds available, peaceful corners to escape with a book, and endless sea views to enjoy. The sea days quickly became some of my favourite memories.

Each port brought something unique. We explored the coastal charm of Zadar, walked the ancient walls of Dubrovnik, admired the rich history and grand architecture of Valletta, and soaked up the sunshine and vibrant atmosphere of Palma de Mallorca. Every destination offered its own character and charm, while Queen Victoria provided a beautiful home between adventures.

Our wonderful Captains view from the Bridge

Classic Cunard, Modern Fun

Life onboard was equally memorable. Cunard’s famous Afternoon Tea became a favourite ritual, whether enjoying warm scones and live music in the Queens Room or indulging in Champagne Afternoon Tea in The Verandah. The Gala Evenings added a touch of glamour without feeling formal or intimidating. Whether guests embraced the Red & Gold and Roaring Twenties themes or kept things simple, everyone felt comfortable.

There was always something happening onboard too from trivia competitions, live bands, talented musicians, karaoke, silent discos, and even football matches shown on the big screens. The atmosphere was lively when you wanted it to be, yet always relaxed and welcoming.

Delicious High Tea in the Queens Court

Is Cunard Too Formal? My Honest Take

Before this voyage, I’ll admit I had some preconceived ideas and beliefs about Cunard. Like many people, I envisioned ballgowns every evening, strict dress codes, and a cruise experience that might feel a little out of my comfort zone.

What I found was something completely different and far more enjoyable.

Yes, Cunard is elegant. The ships are beautiful, the service is exceptional, and there are lovely traditions like Afternoon Tea and Gala Evenings. But what surprised me most was how relaxed and welcoming it all felt.

There was never any pressure to dress a certain way or participate in every formal event. Some guests embraced the glamour of Gala Nights, while others simply dressed smartly and enjoyed the atmosphere. Whether relaxing by the pool, enjoying a trivia quiz, sipping champagne at afternoon tea, or dancing at the silent disco, everyone felt comfortable being themselves.

What Cunard offers isn’t stuffy formality, it’s a sense of occasion. It’s about enjoying the finer things at your own pace, without feeling judged or out of place.

Ready For Dinner in the Verandah Steakhouse

My Final thought

From the canals of Venice to the streets of Barcelona, this voyage delivered beautiful destinations, unforgettable experiences, and the simple pleasure of travelling well. If you’re looking for a cruise that combines classic style, exceptional service, and a wonderfully relaxed atmosphere, Queen Victoria delivers all of that and more!

And if you’re worried about needing a ballgown every night, don’t be. Just bring your sense of adventure and be prepared to relax in style while receiving exception true Cunard White Star Service.

Our Roaring 20’s night Group Photo on the Grand Staircase

Colors of Provence: Rhône River Cruise with AmaWaterways

Posted on April 29, 2026June 23, 2026 by Renaye Sands

Sailing Through Provence with AmaWaterways

In November 2025, I was lucky enough to go on my first river cruise with AmaWaterways aboard the AmaKristina, sailing from Lyon to Arles on their Colors of Provence itinerary, before continuing on to Aix-en-Provence and Nice for a couple of extra days.

If you’re looking for an easy way to see multiple parts of France without constantly packing and unpacking, this is honestly one of the best ways to do it.

I’ll be honest, river cruising was never really on my radar, but this trip completely converted me.

Sainte Colombe, France

From Lyon’s Food Markets to Christmas Magic

We started in Lyon, known as the food capital of France, and it definitely lived up to the reputation. From the famous Les Halles market to the Christmas markets, there was food everywhere. Cheese, pastries, fresh produce, wine and some of the biggest oysters you’ve ever seen… it’s a great place to begin any French holiday.

Visiting at the end of November turned out to be a great time to go, especially with the Christmas markets starting to come alive. The markets added something really special to the trip, with each location offering its own Christmas theme and atmosphere. We visited markets in Lyon, Aix-en-Provence and Nice, all filled with festive decorations, ornaments, local food, and plenty of mulled wine. Noel Nice Christmas Markets were by far the biggest and most impressive.

Christmas Markets in November

The AmaKristina Experience

Once onboard the AmaKristina, everything just felt easy. Our twin balcony cabin was comfortable and well laid out, with views straight over the Rhône. It was the perfect place to unwind between each stop.

The ship has a relaxed feel, not too big and not too formal, just a really nice space to come back to at the end of the day. The crew were amazing throughout the whole trip, always friendly, attentive and genuinely welcoming.

A big mention to our Cruise Director Antonio, who kept everything running smoothly and made each day easy to follow, and also to our wonderful AmaWaterways host Ian, who made us feel welcome from the moment we arrived and looked after us the entire time.

AmaKristina French Balcony cabin

The Ease of Exploring with AmaWaterways

Dining was another highlight. Meals are made using fresh local ingredients from each region, and there is no shortage of great food or wine. The Chef’s Table dining experience was a standout and well worth trying.

There was also plenty to do onboard while we were sailing, with things like music trivia, wine tastings from the local regions, and gelato taste testing. The evenings were just as enjoyable, with special guest performers and great music played by our musical host Roberto, often finishing the night with a bit of dancing.

It’s the kind of travel where everything is taken care of, so you can just relax and enjoy where you are each day.

As we cruised south, each stop was different. One of the great things with AmaWaterways is that shore excursions are included, so you simply choose what suits you best each day.

One of the many delicious desserts onboard the AmaKristina

Beaujolais, River Locks and Mistral Winds

In the Beaujolais region in Lyon we visited a winery and enjoyed the beautiful countryside, then back on board we continued along the Rhône, passing through the many river locks, which was really interesting to watch and experience.

Further down the river, we had the mistral winds come through, which definitely made things a bit colder than expected, but it added to the adventure and helped with getting our steps in to warm up.

Beaujolais Vineyard, Lyon

Steam Trains, Scenic Views and Unexpected Adventures

In Vienne, we explored a quieter town with plenty of history, and in Tournon we took a scenic steam train through the Gorges du Doux. This turned into a bit of an unexpected adventure when a large tree had fallen across the tracks. The train crew quickly stepped in with a chainsaw on hand, cut up the tree so we could continue on our way, definitely a memorable moment.

Train De L’ Ardeche – Gorges du Doux, Tournon

The Best Way to Explore Avignon

Avignon was a mix of activity, history and fashion. We started the day with a bike ride around part of the island before heading into town to explore.

It’s a great way to see a bit more than you would on foot.

Scenic Bike Ride around Avignon is a great way to take in all the historic charm and countryside views

Arles: A Grand Finale in Provence

Our final stop was Arles, a city full of character and history, famous for inspiring the paintings of Vincent Van Gogh. Exploring the old town and Roman Amphitheatre was a great way to finish the cruise, along with the Carrières des Lumières art display, where a former quarry has been transformed into an immersive show of images set to music, followed by a quick visit to Les Baux de Provence, a small quaint village perched on top of a hill.

Views were breathtaking, and the mistral winds literally took your breath away!

Arles Amphitheatre – Les Arènes d’Arles

Why Aix-en-Provence Deserves More Than a Day

After the cruise, we said our goodbyes to the wonderful AmaWaterways crew and the special friendships we made and headed by train to Aix-en-Provence.

It’s a beautiful, relaxed town with plenty of cafes and restaurants, the most divine ‘Faux Gras’ with markets and little streets to wander, perfect for slowing things down, especially with a hot chocolate stop along the way.

One day here was definitely not enough!

Aix en Provence – replica of ll Porcellino (the famous Florentine wild boar original is in Florence, Italy). Locals and visitors rub its shiny snout for good luck

The French Riviera: A Fitting Finale

We finished in Nice on the French Riviera. Even with limited time, it’s easy to see why people love this part of France.

The coastline, the food, and the atmosphere made it a great way to end the trip.

The most beautiful Sunsets in Nice on the French Riviera

The Perfect Way to Explore Europe: The AmaWaterways Difference

What stood out most about this trip was how easy everything was. Once you’re onboard with AmaWaterways, everything is taken care of. Excursions, meals, and daily plans are all organised, so you can just enjoy the journey.

I can honestly say I would highly recommend AmaWaterways to anyone considering a river cruise. The level of service, inclusions and overall quality make it a fantastic way to see Europe.

AmaKristina’s Main Lounge is a great place to relax and take in the passing scenery

Cosy Pubs & Parisian Wine: London and Paris in Autumn

Posted on May 15, 2026May 29, 2026 by Alana Dixon

Discovering London & Paris the Easy Way with Collette

If you’re dreaming of Europe in autumn, it’s hard to beat London and Paris in October.

With cooler weather, fewer crowds and beautiful autumn colours, it’s the perfect time to spend five days in London and five days in Paris, connected by the easy Eurostar train. Autumn is one of my favourite times to travel, and these two cities truly come alive during the season.

For this trip, I also wanted to experience one of our partner suppliers firsthand, so I decided to travel on Collette’s classic London & Paris tour. It was a fantastic way to experience both cities while having the convenience of accommodation, some meals, transport and a range of included sightseeing already organised.

The tour made travelling between the two cities seamless, especially with the Eurostar connection, and still allowed plenty of free time to explore at your own pace. I loved having the flexibility to wander through London’s iconic streets and get lost in the charming corners of Paris, while also enjoying the comfort and ease that comes with travelling on a guided tour.

It was a great option for travellers wanting a balance of independence and structure, particularly for first-time visitors to Europe or anyone looking for a stress-free way to experience two of Europe’s most iconic cities.

Getting lost in the streets of Paris is part of the magic

London: Pubs, History & Classic Sights

Spend your days in London exploring famous sights around Westminster, including Big Ben, Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. Watching the Changing of the Guard is a must for first-time visitors, and a walking tour is one of the best ways to discover London’s history and hidden corners. You may also want to immerse yourself in the British tradition and have a cuppa tea at The Orangery at Kensington Palace.

Covent Garden is another favourite, filled with street performers, cosy cafés, boutique shopping, and plenty of atmosphere.

And of course, no London trip is complete without experiencing the classic British pub scene. October is perfect pub weather – think cosy fireplaces, local ales, hearty meals, and proper fish and chips after a day of sightseeing.

If you love musical theatre, I highly recommend seeing a show in the West End. Many theatres offer affordable last-minute tickets to fill seats. I saw Mamma Mia! and it was incredible even from the back row.

Alana & Lauren fully embracing the British tradition – one cuppa tea at a time

Paris: Cafés, Culture & Romance

Paris in October is simply beautiful. The city feels effortlessly romantic as the leaves begin to turn and the crisp autumn air settles in. Wander along the Seine, admire iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre, and spend slow afternoons café hopping with a glass of rosé or French wine in hand.

One of my favourite things to do in any new city is to simply wander the streets and get a little lost. Paris is perfect for that and every corner seems to lead to a charming local boutique, cosy bistro, hidden courtyard or beautiful sight you weren’t expecting to find. Some of the best moments come from stepping away from the itinerary and soaking up the atmosphere of the city itself.

Paris is also all about the food culture. From flaky croissants and cheese platters to classic French dishes like escargot, every meal feels like an experience. Whether you’re dining at a cosy bistro in Montmartre or enjoying wine beside the river as the city lights begin to glow, Paris has a way of slowing you down and making you savour every moment.

Alana embracing the Parisian way of life – escargot, a glass of rosé, and slowing down to savour the moment

Why October?

I always find myself travelling most during the autumn season, and after visiting London and Paris in October, it’s easy to see why. The cooler temperatures make sightseeing far more comfortable, the summer crowds have eased, and the cities take on a completely different atmosphere with golden leaves, cosy cafés and slower-paced days.

It’s the kind of travel that feels more relaxed and immersive. You can wander through London’s parks without rushing from attraction to attraction or spend hours getting lost in the streets of Paris, discovering local boutiques and hidden bistros along the way. There’s something about autumn in Europe that makes you want to slow down and truly enjoy each moment.

October also strikes the perfect balance between still having plenty happening in the cities while avoiding the peak-season chaos. Whether it’s sipping wine beside the Seine, warming up in a traditional London pub, or simply enjoying crisp mornings exploring iconic sights, autumn creates such a memorable atmosphere for travel.

If London and Paris have been sitting on your travel list for a while, October might just be the perfect time to experience them. Sometimes the best trips happen when you embrace the slower season and allow yourself time to wander, explore and soak it all in.

A Paris must-do – experiencing the magic of the Eiffel Tower in person

Dutch Sights & Belgian Delights Cruise Aboard the Scenic Jewel

Posted on April 24, 2026May 29, 2026 by Alisa McInnes

Amsterdam was the perfect place to begin this journey. Scenic transferred me to the Renaissance Amsterdam City, which was ideally located for exploring at my own pace. Spring really brought the city to life—tulips were in bloom, markets were busy, and there was an easy energy walking along the canals. I spent my first afternoon visiting the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House, two very different but equally memorable experiences. Later, a canal cruise with local cheese and wine was a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

The canals of Amsterdam run through the city’s historic centre, lined with traditional houses and bridges that reflect its long maritime history.

The next morning, I boarded the Scenic Jewel, my home for the Dutch Sights & Belgian Delights Cruise. The welcome felt relaxed but thoughtful, with freshly made stroopwafels and a glass of champagne. A butler escorted me to my Balcony Suite, which was comfortable and well-appointed, with thoughtful amenities including a mini bar, robes, and slippers that made it easy to settle in straight away. There was also plenty of storage, and suitcases could be neatly stored under the bed, which made unpacking and staying organised very easy. Dining on board was a highlight, with a good variety of options including specialty restaurants, and evenings were nicely rounded out with live local music and entertainment.

The iconic windmills of Kinderdijk Windmills, a striking reminder of Dutch history

The itinerary itself had a great balance. Walking through the Keukenhof Gardens was a standout, with endless rows of tulips in full colour. The evening at Fabrique des Lumières was something different again—an immersive art experience that felt quite unique. In Dordrecht, I enjoyed wandering the historic streets before heading to the Kinderdijk Windmills, where the cool weather added to the atmosphere and made the experience feel even more authentic.

We later docked at Bruinisse and visited the nearby town of Veere, which had a quiet charm and beautiful waterfront. In the afternoon, cycling on the complimentary e-bikes was a great way to explore the area more freely, passing canals, open spaces, and locals going about their day.

Tulips in full bloom at Keukenhof Gardens, creating a calm and picture perfect spring scene

Antwerp was a real highlight. The city has an interesting history, impressive architecture, and a lively feel. Seeing the Cathedral of Our Lady and learning about its reputation as the diamond capital of the world added another layer to the visit. The tasting of Belgian waffles, chocolate, and craft beer was a definite standout and a fun way to experience the local culture.

The journey finished in Arnhem with a visit to Paleis Het Loo, where the grand interiors and gardens offered a glimpse into Dutch royal history and provided a fitting end to the trip.

The towering spire of the Cathedral of Our Lady dominates Antwerp’s skyline, showcasing stunning Gothic architecture and centuries of history

Overall, the cruise struck a great balance between exploring and relaxing. Everything felt well organised and easy, from the service on board to the excursions onshore. My time on the Scenic Jewel was smooth, enjoyable, and full of memorable moments—an experience with Scenic that I’d happily do again.

Relaxing onboard the Scenic Jewel, enjoying the comfort, views, and effortless luxury of river cruising

AmaWaterways Colours of Provence: A River Cruise Through Southern France

Posted on April 24, 2026April 24, 2026 by Kellie Waterfield

Colours of Provence

There’s a certain magic to southern France, a rhythm that slows you down, invites you to linger a little longer over lunch, and rewards you with colour at every turn. AmaWaterways’ Colours of Provence river cruise captures this essence perfectly, weaving together history, cuisine, art and landscapes along the Rhône River in a way that feels both luxurious and deeply authentic.

The vibrant Colours of Provence aboard AmaKristina celebrates the charm and artistry of Avignon and the Provence region.

AmaWaterways: Home to Europe’s Second-Largest River Cruise Fleet

The AmaKristina, blends contemporary design with classic European elegance. Carrying a smaller number of guests, the atmosphere onboard feels calm, spacious and personal, more like a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise ship.

Staterooms are generously sized, with most featuring French balconies or twin balconies. Many AmaWaterways ships also offer interconnecting staterooms and family-friendly suites that can accommodate up to four guests, making this an excellent option not only for couples but also for multi-generational families wishing to travel together. Public spaces are beautifully designed to encourage relaxation. The Main Lounge is flooded with natural light and offers panoramic views, perfect for morning coffee or an evening cocktail. On the sun deck, guests can enjoy a heated pool with swim-up bar, loungers, and shaded seating, ideal for watching vineyards and villages drift by. What truly sets the AmaKristina apart is the service. The crew-to-guest ratio ensures warm, attentive and highly personalised care, often learning your name, preferences and favourite drink within the first day. It’s this level of genuine hospitality that makes time onboard as memorable as the destinations themselves.

Inside AmaKristina, elegant interiors and warm, contemporary design create a boutique hotel-style atmosphere on the river.

Included Excursions Designed for Every Guest

AmaWaterways’ shore tours are crafted to ensure there is something for everyone and all fitness levels. Guests can choose gentle guided walks at multiple paces to soak up local culture, more energetic cycling tours through scenic countryside, or culinary and wine experiences that delight the senses. There are also options for deeper historical explorations, special interests and city tours, making each port visit engaging and memorable for all travellers. Every excursion is carefully timed and guided, one morning you might enjoy fresh meats, cheeses, and seafood at markets, and by afternoon explore the cobblestone streets, beautiful cathedrals, and Roman ruins of another town, allowing you to fully enjoy the moment without ever feeling rushed.

Guided shore excursions from AmaKristina offer immersive experiences through historic towns, cultural landmarks, and scenic river landscapes.

Life on board

My day would start at 6:15 am with a tea in the Main Lounge, where a 24-hour tea and coffee station is available. I’d read the daily cruiser via the AmaWaterways app to know the times of excursions, onboard activities, and information about the town we were in. At 6:30 am, fresh pastries arrive from the kitchen, impossible to resist. Breakfast at 7:30 am in the restaurant was always a delight, with the staff remembering my hot drink order and glass of sparkling wine. By 9 am, it was time for our morning excursion on foot, by bike, or by bus to a nearby town returning to the ship by 12:30 pm for a delicious lunch. Afternoons offered either another excursion or time onboard to enjoy local wines, quizzes, watching the ship pass through locks, card games, or relaxing in the outdoor spaces. Afternoon tea at 4 pm was a perfect chance to chat with fellow travellers about the day’s adventures. At 6 pm, Sip & Sail cocktail hour featured a daily special cocktail or other drinks from the extensive menu while the tour director explained the next day’s excursions. Dinner at 7 pm was a highlight with local delicacies served in a relaxed, elegant setting, followed by live music or entertainment, and sometimes dancing with Roberto, the in-house musician and DJ.

Complimentary bicycles aboard AmaKristina offer an active and fun way to explore riverside towns and scenic trails at your own pace.

No trip to France is complete without indulging in local dishes and wines.

Dining onboard AmaWaterways is all-inclusive and focuses on fresh, regional European cuisine that reflects the destinations you visit.

Guests enjoy buffet and made-to-order breakfasts, with daily specials like French toast and eggs Benedict, fresh fruit & yoghurt, made-to-order eggs, fresh juices, and sparkling wine (yes, bubbles at breakfast!)

Lunch varies daily with a buffet or three-course menu, regional specialties, salads, soups and lighter options, alongside always-available favourites like burgers and Pizza.

Dinner offers a four-course experience featuring the chef’s choice of local specialties, alongside a varied menu of classic favourites and lighter options. Onboard AmaWaterways, wine, beer, and soft drinks are complimentary with both lunch and dinner, with selections often paired to complement the evening’s menu and enhance the overall dining experience.

A Highlight is the small-group Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, offering an intimate multi-course tasting menu prepared in an open-kitchen setting.

AmaWaterways is very accommodating when it comes to food allergies and dietary requirements, with chefs and dining staff working closely with guests to ensure meals are both safe and enjoyable.

Artfully prepared cuisine aboard AmaKristina showcases fresh, regional flavours served with refined presentation and exceptional attention to detail.

A Journey That Lingers Long After the Cruise Ends

AmaWaterways’ Colours of Provence is not just a river cruise, it’s a journey through light, flavour and history. From Roman ruins to rolling vineyards, lively cities to sleepy villages, it offers a beautifully balanced taste of southern France. You disembark not just with photos, but with a deeper appreciation for the Provençal way of life, and a strong desire to return.

If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing France at its most colourful, relaxed and delicious, this cruise delivers in every sense.

AmaKristina glows beautifully at night, offering a serene and elegant riverside escape under the stars

Cruising the Danube with Riverside Luxury Cruises

Posted on September 4, 2025October 2, 2025 by Alana Dixon

Cruising the Danube with Riverside

A Week on the Danube Like No Other

I don’t think I’ve ever crammed so much charm, history, and straight-up fun into one week as I did on this Danube River cruise.

And the timing? Couldn’t have been better. The whole thing lined up with Hungary’s National Day, which meant parades, traditions, and the most epic fireworks show over Budapest – all from the deck of the ship.

Thank you, Riverside Luxury Cruises, this is something I will never forget.

Alana on board Riverside Mozart with Riverside Luxury Cruises

Vienna’s Grand Charm

We kicked things off in Vienna, and wow… this city is like walking through a postcard. Palaces, opera houses, and ridiculously pretty streets everywhere you turn. After settling onto the Riverside Mozart (yes, it’s as fancy as it sounds), I did my favourite “new city ritual” – ditched the map, picked a random street, and just wandered.

That night, we had our first dinner on board, met the crew, and got chatting with other travellers. Within a few hours it already felt like we were in for something special.

St Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna

Quirky and Underrated

Next up was Bratislava in Slovakia, which was such a fun contrast to Vienna. Smaller, quirkier, and way more laid-back.

The Old Town is full of colourful little houses and cobblestone lanes – total storybook. Some people jumped on bikes to explore, but I couldn’t pass up a wine tasting at a 16th-century castle. Bratislava feels a little under the radar compared to other capitals, which made it feel extra cool to discover.

Alana exploring Old Town Bratislava

Cruising into Hungary

Then it was onto Hungary, with stops in Esztergom and Visegrád before sailing into Budapest. Esztergom’s basilica is massive – you can spot it from forever away – and inside it’s jaw-dropping. Visegrád had this medieval fortress perched above the river with beautiful views of The Danube River.

But nothing, and I mean nothing, beat the moment we cruised into Budapest at night.

The bridges lit up, the Parliament glowing, the whole skyline sparkling… one of those travel moments where you just stand there grinning like, “is this real life?”

A beautiful day sailing out of Esztergom onboard the Riverside Mozart

National Day Magic

And then Budapest itself. Absolute highlight. You can tour Parliament, wander Fisherman’s Bastion (which looks like a Disney castle), or just relax along the riverbanks.

But being there for National Day? I felt so honoured to be able to experience their National Day with the locals. The whole city came alive with music, food stalls, and celebrations. I ate my bodyweight in lángos (fried bread smothered in garlic oil, sour cream, and cheese – I’m still daydreaming about this), tried some local drinks, and joined the crowd clapping along to traditional dancing. The energy was excellent.

The grand finale? Fireworks over the Danube. We had dinner on the top deck of the ship, and as the city lit up and the fireworks exploded, it felt like Budapest was putting on a private show just for us. Pure magic.

Fireworks on the sun deck of Riverside Mozart on St Stephen’s Day

More Surprises Along the Way

Even after Budapest, the cruise kept surprising me. In Mohács, I learned about their wild Busójárás Carnival traditions – think scary masks, costumes, and folklore. Then in Kalocsa, I got a paprika masterclass (they don’t call it the Paprika Capital of the World for nothing).

Pécs turned out to be one of the highlights. The old town is full of charm, with pastel streets and lively squares, but the star of the show was the Pécs Cathedral. Riverside Luxury Cruises treated us to a private organ performance inside, which gave me goosebumps.

The pastel colours of Pécs main square

A Trip I’ll Never Forget

By the time we sailed back into Budapest, I was torn between being full of gratitude and not wanting it to end. From Vienna’s elegance to Bratislava’s charm, to Budapest’s full-blown celebrations, every stop had its own flavour.

If you’re ever thinking about a Danube cruise, think Riverside Luxury Cruises, and trust me- try to line it up with Hungary’s National Day.

It takes an already incredible trip and adds a whole other layer of magic. I came home with paprika, wine, and a whole stack of memories I’ll be holding onto forever.

Alana on the sun deck on board Riverside Mozart – incredible sunsets

Mediterranean Cruise on Norwegian Epic

Posted on May 19, 2025May 25, 2026 by Sasha Lazarevic

Sasha’s recommended first cruise itinerary in Europe

Sailing out of Civitavecchia (Rome)

Getting here is an easy hour transfer from Rome City or my preferred method is a train which is quick and more cost effective method. There are a few restaurants and cafes around to enjoy before or after any cruise all within 5 to 10 minutes of the harbours.

NCL Epic Cruise Ship

Cannes, France

Wander hilly Le Suquet for Riviera panoramas and painter‑worthy pastel lanes.
Sip a café allongé on Boulevard de la Croisette, where yachts and movie‑set glamour sparkle side‑by‑side, or simply enjoy the beach and amazing beach clubs.

Cannes Beach in France

Barcelona, Spain

Marvel at Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, a stone forest lit by rainbow glass.
Graze through La Boqueria Market—cones of jamón and bite‑size tapas on the go.

La Sagrada Família Basílica in Barcelona

Palma de Mallorca, Spain

Gaze up at gothic La Seu Cathedral, mirrored in the marina’s calm waters.
Relax on Cala Major beach, turquoise waves lapping powder‑soft sand.

Palma de Mallorca in Spain

Ajaccio, Corsica

Ride the Route des Sanguinaires to crimson headlands and crashing surf.
Taste smoky Corsican charcuterie with a chilled rosé on the harbor quay.

Corsica in France

La Spezia & Cinque Terre, Italy

Climb Vernazza’s Doria tower for a cliff‑top mosaic of pastel villages.
Twirl fresh trofie al pesto in Monterosso—basil picked the same morning.

Riomaggiore in Cinque Terre

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