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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 176 holidays

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Entrance of Buda district at sunrise with colourful sky in Budapest, Hungary
View of Bratislava Castle from the river under a colour evening sky
St. Stephen's Cathedral basked in the glow of evening streetlights, Vienna

River Cruise

New Year on the Danube River Cruise

  • Austria, Hungary
  • 5* ships
  • Flights included
  • 6 included experiences
  • Full board with New Year's Eve gala dinner
  • Live classical music recital
An aerial view of Historic Sanctuary of Machu Picchu and the surrounding peaks
Stunning colorful sky and clouds at dusk in Arequipa, famous travel destination and landmark in Peru. Wide angle view from below of the colonial Cathedral. Panoramic frame.
The floating islands on Titicaca Lake, featuring moored kayaks and wooden cabins
A golden fountain and an impressive religious building in Cuzco Main Square, Peru
Colca Canyon and the surrounding Valley with green peaks and mountains, Peru
Aerial view of Cusco Main Square, Peru, with a background of the Peruvian Andes

Escorted Tour

Peru

  • Peru
  • 3* / 4* hotels
  • London Heathrow Airport
  • Daily breakfast, 4 lunches & 1 dinner
  • 11 included experiences
A mature couple looking at an old steam train at night
Union Buildings at sundown in Pretoria, South Africa

Escorted Tour

South Africa with Rovos Rail

  • South Africa
  • 3* / 4* hotels
  • London Heathrow Airport
  • 16 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 7 dinners
  • 20 included experiences
Scenic shot of San Sebastian city and coastline in Spain
Cathedral of Santa Maria in Burgos, Spain
Cityscape of Bilbao with the Nervion river and Guggenheim museum in Bilbao, Spain
The Larrun Mountain peak overlooking the valley below in Atlantic Pyrenees
Rows of buildings in narrow ancient street in Pamplona city, Spain

Escorted Tour

Spain’s Basque Country, La Rioja and Burgos

  • Spain
  • 4* hotels
  • Flights included
  • Rail included
  • Daily breakfast & 1 dinner
  • 10 included experiences
Interior of the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple with rows of golden Buddha statues and painted ceilings, Sri Lanka, South Asia.
Sri Lanka Leopard resting in a tree
NEGOMBO, SRI LANKA the lagoon is the perfect place for the fishing port, the rows of ships moored at the shores
A house on a green hill in Sri Lanka, amongst tea fields
Magnificent rocky fortress, Sigiriya in Sri Lanka

Escorted Tour

Sri Lanka

  • Sri Lanka
  • 4* / 5* hotels
  • Flights included
  • 19 meals: 11 breakfasts & 8 dinners
  • 10 included experiences

From the blog

Aerial shot of Hạ Long Bay in Vietnam

The Best Winter Sun Destinations To Escape The Cold

As the days shorten and there’s an evening nip in the air, many of us are dreaming of the best winter sun destinations across the globe.

Read the full blog
Traditional Christmas market at Vienna Town Hall at night in front of town hall

10 Best European Cities to Visit in Winter

From festive fun to a touch of winter sun – explore Europe’s coolest city destinations this winter.

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Holidays in Spring

Less crowds, more nature and the perfect temperatures for outdoor exploration - a spring holiday sounds idyllic to us! We’ve got the very best destinations available this Spring.

View all spring holidays

Holidays in Summer

This summer, explore iconic European cities or exotic locales. Our summer holidays offer city breaks, lake retreats, and adventures worldwide. Book now.

View all summer holidays
Autumn landscape in Kurobe Gorge, Japan

Holidays in Autumn

Escape the UK’s damp autumn weather. From river cruises to tours, in Europe and beyond, we’ve got the perfect autumn holiday for you. Book now with Riviera Travel.

View all autumn holidays
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.

Explore winter river cruises
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