Winter River Cruises

Popular winter river cruise destinations include:

• The Mekong - Enjoy winter sun as you explore Cambodia and Vietnam
• The Nile - Experience ancient Egypt on a luxury cruise from Cairo
• The Rhine - Cruise in December to visit Germany's best Christmas markets
• The Danube - Enjoy Christmas markets and a festive atmosphere in Budapest, Vienna and Bratislava

Winter river cruise destinations

With Christmas markets aplenty and pretty frost-tipped scenery, winter can be a great time to experience a cruise along the waterways of Europe. Or if you'd prefer a winter sun river cruise, head to Cambodia or Vietnam for a cruise along the Mekong or Irrawaddy. Wherever you fancy exploring, you'll find a great choice of river cruises in December, January and February. 

Festive winter cruises in Europe

You could go all out and enjoy a festive river cruise over the Christmas period, celebrate in style with a break over Christmas and New Year or just get away for a low-cost break for a few days to do your Christmas shopping at Europe's stunning Christmas Markets. The weather in Europe will be chilly, so wrapping up warm and enjoying hot chocolates and mulled wine is the key to enjoying sightseeing without feeling the cold. Most European river cruise ships are refurbished in January and February, so sail in December or you may have to wait until Spring.

Winter sun river cruises

January and February are the perfect months to head to Vietnam or Cambodia for a post-Christmas break. Escape the winter blues in Asia where you're guaranteed a much warmer temperature for your holiday with temperatures around 28°C. Asian river cruises can be enjoyed along the Irrawaddy or the Mekong where you can admire the beautiful scenery from the sun deck as well as immersing yourself in the history and culture of this fascinating part of the world.