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Aerial shot of the Cologne Christmas Markets during sunset in Germany

Holidays in Winter

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From festive cruises to exotic tours in warmer climates, you can embark on an adventure with our range of holidays in winter.

Experience the magic of the winter months in towns and cities along the Danube or Rhine with our festive cruises. You could wander through lively festive markets in search of the perfect gifts, watch incredible classical concerts or simply marvel at the beautiful decorations that adorn the streets as well as explore all the sights without those pesky crowds. If you're not welcoming your extended family over this Christmas, why not spend 25th December onboard one of our luxury ships enjoying our five-star service (and we're not just saying that; check out our awards)?

Of course, if you want the river cruise experience outside of Europe, you can choose between two mighty rivers - the Mekong and the Nile. Discover their fascinating cultural heritage as the breathtaking landscapes unfold before you.  

While we're shivering in the cold, the Southern Hemisphere is basking in all the benefits of summer - warmer temperatures and plenty of sunshine. So why not escape the rain and snow with a winter sun holiday? Put your feet up and relax on our tours with beach stay in India and Jordan, take a game drive in Kruger National Park and go wine-tasting in South Africa or visit some of New Zealand and Australia’s greatest cities – Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, Sydney and Melbourne - on Grand Tours.  

Seize the opportunity to explore new destinations during their dry seasons. In Costa Rica, explore the diverse ecosystems - lush rainforests and pristine beaches - and go in search of native wildlife. Or delight in the warm tropical air and beautiful countryside of Sri Lanka while uncovering the country's countless temples and extraordinary heritage. And, while the eastern coast of Malaysia suffers a seasonal monsoon, the western coast is usually sun-soaked and calm - the perfect time to visit the capital, Kuala Lumpur.  

These are just some of our favourite experiences from the phenomenal itineraries available in winter. Whatever you choose, you can rest easy knowing you'll enjoy unbeatable value, including flights from your local airport at no extra cost, accommodation on board luxury ships or in hand-picked hotels in the best locations, transfers, the services of our wonderful Riviera Cruise Director or Tour Manager, all excursions with knowledgeable local guides and more.  

Go ahead, explore our selection and find your perfect winter holiday. 

Find your perfect winter holiday

We've found you 175 holidays

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Fountain with sculptures and the Natural History Museum in Vienna, Austria
A distant view of Melk abbey on a rocky outcrop above the Danube river, Austria
Salzburg skyline with river Salzach in springtime, Austria
Wiener Ringstrasse with Burgtheater and tram at sunrise, Vienna, Austria

River Cruise

The Blue Danube River Cruise

  • Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
  • 5* ships
  • Flights included
  • 9 included experiences
  • Full board dining
  • Visit Vienna & enjoy a live classical recital on board
  • Visit Budapest & enjoy a live Hungarian folklore show on board
Pretty bridge across a waterways of Strasbourg, capital city of the Alsace region, France
Feldberg Mountain, Germany, with views of distant Hills and Forests under a blue cloudy sky
Famous Chapel Bridge in the historic city center of Lucerne, the city's symbol and one of Switzerland's main tourist attractions and views on a sunny day in summer, Canton of Lucerne, Switzerland
Church, houses and vineyards with the Rhein river in Assmanshausen, Germany

River Cruise

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

  • France, Germany, Switzerland
  • 5* ships
  • Flights included
  • Rail included
  • Full board (except one lunch if choosing the full day excursion)
  • 10 included experiences
Old town on the Pegnitz River in Nuremberg, Germany

River Cruise

Medieval Germany River Cruise

  • Germany
  • 5* ship
  • Flights included
  • Full board dining
  • 7 visits & tours
  • Explore iconic historical cities & sites
  • Enjoy scenic towns along the Romantic Road

From the blog

Aerial shot of Hạ Long Bay in Vietnam

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Traditional Christmas market at Vienna Town Hall at night in front of town hall

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Autumn landscape in Kurobe Gorge, Japan

Holidays in Autumn

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Christmas market with festive lights during the late evening in Rathausplatz square, Vienna, Austria

Winter River Cruises

Winter is such a magical time of year, with snowfall, fun with loved ones, and new discoveries in the New Year.

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Pantai Cenang beach with white sands and palm trees in Langkawi, Malaysia

Winter Sun Holidays

If, like us, you've had enough of the rain after another washout summer, why not escape the cold and gloom of the UK with a winter sun holiday.

View our winter sun holidays
An image of two ships crossing the Seine River, during the day

Request a Riviera Brochure

With a wide range of holidays to choose from, it might be hard to pick just one. Start planning your next holiday with our latest brochures. Simply click the brochure you'd like to receive and fill in your details. You'll receive your selection in 3-5 working days, free of charge.

View our brochures