Category: Beyond the Castle

Everything You Need to Know About Universal’s Epic Universe (Before You Go!)

Universal Orlando Resort is leveling up—big time. Opening officially on May 22, the brand-new Epic Universe theme park is already being called a game-changer in the world of immersive theme park experiences. I’ve been collecting feedback from fellow travel advisors who’ve previewed the park, and I’m here to give you the inside scoop: what to expect, what to plan for, and what might surprise you.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

🌌 First Impressions: EPIC in Every Way

From everything I’ve seen and heard, one thing is clear: Epic Universe is absolutely beautiful. Every land is incredibly detailed, visually rich, and immersive. This isn’t just about new rides—it’s about transporting you to entirely new worlds. It’s bold, imaginative, and unlike anything else Universal has done before.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

🌞 What’s Inside: The Five Lands of Epic Universe

Here’s a quick tour of the five main lands you’ll find inside Epic Universe:

1. Super Nintendo World

Race through the Mushroom Kingdom with Mario and friends in this interactive land full of kinetic energy. Guests love the Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge attraction, which blends real and virtual worlds. With a Power-Up Band, you can collect virtual coins and participate in challenges around the land. I love all the colors and crazy visuals in Super Nintendo World. It really does look like you’ve stepped into a video game world! Mario is a great choice here, as so many generations have played some version of Mario Brothers. This land has a very wide appeal and I think fans of all ages will find something here to enjoy.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

2. How to Train Your Dragon: Isle of Berk

This land is perfect for families. Fly with dragons, explore Viking-style villages, and enjoy kid-friendly rides and interactive experiences. It’s bright, cheerful, and full of motion. I’m most excited about this one! And with the live-action version of “How to Train Your Dragon” opening in a few weeks, the timing couldn’t be better. I think there is a whole lot of new fans of this franchise about to emerge! Visitors have been particularly excited about the character interactions in Isle of Berk. They love meeting the dragons (and their riders!!)

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

3. Celestial Park

This dreamy central hub features stunning fountains, glowing gardens, and celestial architecture. It’s home to some of the park’s dining, shopping, and relaxation areas—and it’s designed to be a space where all the lands converge.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

4. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

This new chapter in the Wizarding World brings you into 1920s Paris, inspired by the Fantastic Beasts films. This area looks very different from the other two Wizarding World lands at Universal and Islands of Adventures, but like those two other Wizarding Worlds, the attention to detail is very strong. Visually, this area looks AMAZING and immersive. I’ve heard really good things about both the attraction and the entertainment here. However, the attraction has had some technical issues and we’ve seen incredibly long lines.

Photo: Destinations to Explore

Universal briefly offered a virtual queue, to MUCH controversy. I personally really like virtual queues as I would prefer NOT standing in line–but people were unhappy that they weren’t able to secure a spot in the virtual queue. After years of managing virtual queues at Disney, I understand the frustration, but I also understand that there are only so many riders that will be able to ride the attraction in a given day–if the queue fills up, it means that all those slots have been filled. Disappointing, but I’m happy not to stand in line for hours. Universal received LOTS of complaints, so they eliminated the virtual queue. The following days saw people standing in line for up to FIVE hours. I just don’t have that in me, I’m sorry. I don’t care how great an attraction is–I’m not going to be standing in ANY line ANY WHERE for five hours. But that’s just me. Your mileage may vary.

5. Dark Universe

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

Universal Monsters fans, this one’s for you. Think Dracula, Frankenstein, and eerie, Gothic thrills. It’s moody, mysterious, and designed for those who love darker storytelling. I’ve also heard really terrific things about the character interactions in Dark Universe. You have the chance to “see” the Invisible Man, Frankenstein, the Bride of Frankenstein…lots of fun characters here! Guests have been raving about the rides, here, too. I really love that Universal went this direction here…lots of classic “scary”. There’s so much rich story in these properties–and way less gory and violent than more current horror movies. I know the Halloween Horror Nights audience loves all the modern horror movies, but I believe the classic film characters and stories featured in Dark Universe will have wide appeal and potentially draw new fans to these old classics.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

⚡ Real Talk: Things to Know Before You Go

🔥 It’s HOT

There’s not much shade. While trees and greenery have been planted throughout the park, they haven’t filled in yet—so it can get very hot, especially in the middle of the day. Bring an umbrella, a cooling towel, a handheld fan, and lots of water. If you’re heat-sensitive, plan your visit accordingly.

⬆️ There Are Stairs in Ride Queues

Several ride queues feature stairs or elevation changes. This is something to note if you or someone in your party has mobility concerns. Be prepared for some up-and-down walking throughout your day.

❌ Not Plus-Size Friendly

Unfortunately, Universal still has work to do in terms of body inclusivity. Many of the new attractions at EPIC Universe are not significantly more accommodating than existing Universal rides. If you’re concerned about ride access, I recommend reaching out ahead of time so we can strategize the best attractions for your group.

⏳ Pack Your Patience

With the park just opening, crowds will be large and lines will be long—especially this summer. Booking early entry options, staying at a Universal hotel, or visiting during slower travel periods can help you make the most of your time.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

🎡 Who Will Love Epic Universe?

  • Gamers and Nintendo fans (Super Nintendo World is truly next-level)
  • Families with kids (Isle of Berk is a must-see!)
  • Harry Potter fans craving something new
  • Theme park junkies who love cutting-edge attractions
  • Anyone looking for a brand-new experience in Orlando
Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

It’s a great addition to a Universal Orlando vacation—and pairs beautifully with a few nights at a Disney resort if you want the best of both worlds.

Epic Universe
Photo: Destinations to Explore

✉️ Let’s Start Planning Your EPIC Adventure

If you’re thinking about visiting Universal Orlando in 2025 or 2026, now’s the time to start planning. Epic Universe will be very popular for the foreseeable future, and the best resort and ticket packages are going fast.

As a certified Universal Travel Advisor, I can help you:

  • Choose the best travel dates based on crowds and weather
  • Find the right Universal resort (with perks like early entry)
  • Build a custom itinerary that fits your pace and budget

Click here to request a quote or send me a message—I’d love to help you plan an epic escape!

Which Beaches Resort Is Right for Your Family? Comparing Beaches Negril vs. Beaches Turks & Caicos

If you’re dreaming of a warm, sun-soaked Caribbean escape that blends family fun with true luxury, Beaches Resorts are an excellent choice. But with a couple of standout locations to choose from, you might be wondering: which one is the best fit for your family?

In this week’s Beyond the Castle edition, I’m comparing Beaches Negril and Beaches Turks & Caicos to help you decide which resort will deliver the vacation experience your family is craving.

🏖️ First, What Makes Beaches Resorts So Special?

Beaches Resorts are the family-friendly cousins of the ultra-luxurious Sandals brand. They’re all-inclusive, beautifully located, and jam-packed with thoughtful touches that make vacationing with kids easier and more magical.

Each resort includes:

  • Unlimited gourmet dining and drinks (yes, even top-shelf alcohol!)
  • Pirate-themed waterparks and kids’ camps
  • Sesame Street character experiences
  • Land and water sports for all ages
  • Luxurious rooms and suites
  • No tipping, no surprise fees, and airport transfers included

Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or a multigenerational group, Beaches makes it easy to relax, connect, and have FUN.

🌴 Beaches Negril: Laid-Back Jamaican Charm on 7 Mile Beach

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Negril
Photo: Beaches Resorts

Located on the widest stretch of Jamaica’s famous Seven Mile Beach, Beaches Negril is beloved for its intimate, laid-back vibe.

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Negril
Photo: Beaches Resorts

Why Families Love It:

  • Compact and easy to navigate, perfect for families with young kids
  • Recently renovated rooms and suites with modern amenities
  • Pirates Island Waterpark with a lazy river, waterslides, and splash zones
  • Nine restaurants offering a mix of Caribbean and international cuisine
  • Beachfront firepits and hammocks for post-dinner relaxation
Beaches Resorts: Beaches Negril
Photo: Beaches Resorts

This is a great choice if you’re looking for a slower pace, a stunning beach, and a resort that’s big enough to be exciting but small enough to feel cozy.

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Negril
Photo: Beaches Resorts

🏕️ Beaches Turks & Caicos: All-Out Family Adventure on Grace Bay

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Photo: Beaches Resorts

This is the flagship Beaches Resort—and it shows. Beaches Turks & Caicos is sprawling, exciting, and packed with options for every personality type in your family.

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Photo: Beaches Resorts

Why Families Love It:

  • Set on 12 miles of Grace Bay Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful stretches of sand
  • Five themed villages: French, Italian, Caribbean, Seaside, and Key West
  • Massive Pirates Island Waterpark with surf simulator and huge slides
  • 21 restaurants ranging from sushi and hibachi to mac & cheese trucks
  • Xbox Play Lounge, teen nightclub, and dive program for certified teens
Beaches Resorts: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Photo: Beaches Resorts

If you want non-stop entertainment, tons of dining variety, and space for your family to spread out and explore, this is the one.

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Photo: Beaches Resorts

⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison

FeatureBeaches NegrilBeaches Turks & Caicos
Location7 Mile Beach, JamaicaGrace Bay, Turks & Caicos
VibeRelaxed and intimateGrand and energetic
SizeSmall and walkableLarge and resort-style
Restaurants921
WaterparkYesYes (much larger)
Kid/Teen SpacesYesYes + Xbox + nightclub
Best ForYounger kids or first-timersLarger families, older kids, variety-seekers

🌎 So… Which Beaches Resort Should You Choose?

Here’s my take:

  • Pick Beaches Negril if your family prefers a relaxed, beachy vibe without needing a map to get around.
  • Pick Beaches Turks & Caicos if your crew wants options, action, and wow-factor amenities.
Beaches Resorts: Beaches Negril
Beaches Negril at Sunset, Photo: Beaches Resorts

There’s no wrong choice—both are amazing. It really just depends on your vacation style!

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Beaches Turks & Caicos, Photo: Beaches Resorts

✨ Need Help Deciding?

Still not sure which resort is your best fit? That’s where I come in. As a certified Beaches & Sandals travel advisor, I help families plan unforgettable, stress-free vacations tailored to your specific needs, dates, and budget.

Beaches Resorts: Beaches Turks & Caicos
Photo: Beaches Resorts

Let me do the research, handle the booking, and sprinkle a little extra magic on your trip planning.

Click here to get started or reply to this post and I’ll help you build a custom Beaches quote.

Let’s get you to the beach!

Ready to plan your next Magical Adventure? Email me today for a no-obligation quote!

P.S. Every week, Sandals & Beaches Resorts release their 777 deals. These are limited time, special offers. If you’d like to join the list to get notified of these special offers each week, please sign up here.

All-Inclusive Resorts vs. Cruise Vacations: Which is Right for You?

If you’re a Disney Cruise Line fan (like me!), you already know how magical it is to have everything planned out, your meals taken care of, and the world waiting to be explored… all without constantly reaching for your wallet. That’s the dream, right?

But here’s something you may not have considered yet: all-inclusive resorts can offer that same kind of stress-free, pampered experience as a cruise vacation—sometimes with more flexibility and (gasp!) a lower price tag.

This week in our Beyond the Castle series, we’re diving into the wonderful world of all-inclusive vacations—and how they stack up against the cruise vacations so many of us already love.

Let’s break it down…

All-inclusive resorts vs. cruise vacations: which is right for you? Beaches Ochos Rios
Photo: Beaches Ochos Rios

🏝️ What is an All-Inclusive Resort?

At its core, an all-inclusive resort is a one-stop vacation shop. You pay a flat rate, and once you arrive, nearly everything is taken care of—your room, meals, snacks, drinks (yes, even the adult beverages!), entertainment, and many activities are all included.

Some all-inclusive resorts even offer airport transfers, 24/7 room service, water sports, and nightly shows as part of the package.

No surprise bills at checkout. No worrying about budgeting every dinner. Just… relaxation.

Pros of an All-Inclusive Resort Vacation:

✅ One price = meals, drinks, entertainment, and more
✅ Often includes water sports, yoga, fitness classes, and more
✅ Airport transfers frequently included
✅ More space to spread out than a ship
✅ Flexible schedule—dine, rest, or explore whenever you want
✅ Great for both romance (Sandals!) and families (Beaches!)
✅ No seasickness or port hustle

Cons of an All-Inclusive Resort Vacation:

⚠️ Usually stay in one location the entire trip
⚠️ Excursions often cost extra
⚠️ Service quality varies between resort brands
⚠️ Some resort activities may require advance reservations
⚠️ Resort atmosphere can be too quiet or too party-ish depending on the property
⚠️ Less of a “see the world” feeling compared to cruising

All-inclusive resorts vs. Cruise vacations: Which is right for you? Disney Cruise Line
Photo: Disney Cruise Line

🚢 Cruise Vacations: Floating Cities of Fun

Cruises offer an incredible way to see multiple destinations while only unpacking once. For many of us, they’re the perfect blend of adventure and convenience—with food, entertainment, and accommodations all bundled together.

However, while your stateroom and main dining are included, there are often a lot of extras to plan for:

      • Gratuities
      • Shore excursions
      • Specialty dining
      • Beverage packages
      • Wi-Fi access
      • Port fees and taxes

If you’ve ever had sticker shock looking at your final cruise bill… you are not alone!

Pros of a Cruise Vacation:

✅ Explore multiple destinations without unpacking
✅ Wide variety of entertainment, shows, and themed events
✅ Excellent for families (especially Disney Cruise Line)
✅ All meals included in main dining rooms
✅ Great for socializing and meeting new people
✅ Themed cruise experiences (e.g. Marvel, Star Wars, holiday sailings)

Cons of a Cruise Vacation:

⚠️ Extra costs add up fast (excursions, drinks, Wi-Fi, tips, etc.)
⚠️ Fixed itinerary—you’re on the ship’s schedule
⚠️ Motion sickness may be a concern
⚠️ Smaller cabins than most hotel rooms
⚠️ Less flexibility once onboard
⚠️ Crowds and lines, especially on sea days

Let’s Face It: All-Inclusive Resort or Cruise Vacation: You’re Winning!

All-inclusive resorts vs. cruise vacations: which is right for you? Royal Caribbean. Allure of the Seas
Photo: RCL Allure of the Seas

First of all, I have to say that when one of the toughest decisions you have to make is whether you are going to go on a cruise vacation or stay at an all-inclusive resort, you’re having a pretty good time. You’re pretty much guaranteed a win either way.

I also have to say that not all cruise lines are created equal, and not all all-inclusive resorts are created equal. The quality and type of experience you have can be dramatically different between the various cruise lines and all the different all-inclusive resorts.

This doesn’t mean that one brand is better than another: they all have their strengths. What matters most in making these decisions is what is important to YOU. Things like budget, location, type of room, how much sleep you like on vacation–it’s ALL important when choosing whether to take a cruise vacation, an all-inclusive resort vacation or even an adventure travel vacation.  It’s important that you do your research or work with a trusted travel advisor to make sure that whichever cruise vacation or all-inclusive resort you book, it’s a good fit for you and your family or traveling buddies.

All-Inclusive Resorts vs. Cruise Vacations: Which is the Better Fit?

Here’s a quick side-by-side comparison to help you weigh the options:

 

Feature All-Inclusive Resort Cruise Vacation
Room + Meals + Drinks ✔ Included ✔ Main dining included, alcohol usually extra
Entertainment ✔ Nightly shows, beach parties, etc. ✔ Broadway-style shows, character meet & greets
Activities ✔ Land + water sports often included ✔ Onboard activities, pools, slides
Excursions ❌ Typically extra ❌ Always extra
Transportation ✔ Airport transfers often included ❌ Flights, transfers usually extra
Unpack Once? ✔ Yes ✔ Yes
Visit Multiple Places? ❌ Usually one destination ✔ Several ports of call
Motion Sickness? ❌ Not an issue ⚠️ Could be a concern
Kid-Friendly Options? ✔ Beaches Resorts = amazing for families ✔ Disney Cruise Line = pure magic for kids
Adults-Only Escape? ✔ Sandals = adult-only luxury ✔ Adult areas, but families are everywhere

All-Inclusive Resorts vs. Cruise Line: Which is right for you? Beaches Ochos Rios
Photo: Beaches Ochos Rios

Which Vacation Style is Right for You?

So, you’ve decide that you need a break from the “go-go-go” of most theme park vacations, and you want a vacation that is more laid back and where you can relax, knowing most things are already taken care of.

How will you choose between an All-Inclusive Resort or a Cruise Vacation?

      • Want to explore several destinations and don’t mind spending more on extras? A cruise might be perfect.

      • Craving a restful beach vacation with no surprises or schedules? An all-inclusive resort could be your dream come true.

      • Looking for a romantic, kid-free escape? You’ll want to check out Sandals Resorts (more on those soon!).

      • Planning a multigenerational or family vacation? Beaches Resorts offer something for everyone—from toddlers to grandparents.

All-inclusive resort vs. cruise vacation: which is right for you? Disney Cruise Line, Disney Wish
Photo: Disney Cruise Line

🌴 Sneak Peek: Meet Sandals & Beaches Resorts

I just completed my Sandals training (yay!), so I’ll be sharing more over the next couple of weeks about what makes these all-inclusive resorts so special.

      • Sandals is perfect for couples, honeymoons, or romantic getaways. It’s adults-only, ultra-luxurious, and filled with thoughtful extras (like butler service and private pools!).

All-inclusive resorts vs. cruise vacations: which is right for you? Sandals. BabymoonPhoto: Sandals

      •  Beaches is their sister brand, made for families and groups. Think kids’ clubs, Sesame Street parades, and waterparks—alongside fine dining and gorgeous Caribbean beaches.

All-inclusive resorts vs. cruise vacations: which is right for you? Beaches
Photo: Beaches Negril

Next week, we’ll dig deeper into these dreamy resorts, so stay tuned!

Have You Ever Tried an All-Inclusive Resort?

I’d love to hear about your experience! If you’ve stayed at a Sandals or Beaches resort—or if you’ve been curious about trying one—drop me a comment or shoot me a message. I’m happy to answer questions or help you figure out what kind of vacation might be your perfect match.

And if you’d NEVER give up your beloved cruising to check out an all-inclusive resort, tell me that, too! What is your favorite cruise line? Why?

And don’t worry—Disney’s not going anywhere. But there’s a whole big world of magic out there, and I can’t wait to help you explore it.

EPCOT, Les Chefs de Paris, Cocktails in France
Email brooke@wdwmagicalcastlestravel.com for a free, no-obligation quote on your next vacation adventure!

European River Cruises

Magical Journeys Beyond the Castle

Avalon Algeria Duoro Portugal

As your Disney vacation specialist, I’m always looking for magical experiences that will delight my Disney-loving clients. Today, I’m excited to share one of travel’s best-kept secrets: European river cruises. These enchanting journeys offer the perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and immersive cultural experiences that many Disney fans will absolutely love!

Why Disney Lovers Will Fall for River Cruising

If you’ve enjoyed a Disney Cruise Line vacation, you already understand the magic of unpacking once while visiting multiple destinations. European river cruises take this concept to enchanting Old World settings, where castle-dotted hillsides and storybook villages await around every bend.

European River Cruises. Fairytale Cruises.

What makes river cruising especially appealing to Disney enthusiasts:

    • Immersive storytelling: Just like Disney brings stories to life, river cruises immerse you in the authentic tales and history of each destination
    • Exceptional service: The high crew-to-guest ratio rivals Disney’s legendary service standards
    • Hassle-free exploration: Everything is arranged for you, from guided excursions to dining experiences
    • Intimate experiences: Most river ships carry fewer than 200 guests, creating a boutique experience

European River Cruises

Adventures by Disney River Cruises: Disney Magic on European Waters

Disney fans may already know that Adventures by Disney offers select European river cruise itineraries in partnership with AmaWaterways. These special sailings bring Disney’s renowned service to the rivers of Europe with:

    • Adventure Guides who create magical moments throughout your journey
    • Special activities designed for different age groups
    • Disney-exclusive shore excursions
    • Storytelling that brings European history to life

European River Cruises

Popular Adventures by Disney river cruise itineraries include:

    • Danube River: Visiting Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary
    • Rhine River: Exploring Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands
    • Seine River: Discovering the heart of France including Paris and Normandy

European River Cruises. Adventures by Disney. Danube River Cruise.
Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise

While these cruises offer the Disney touch you love, they come with a premium price tag and limited sailing dates. The good news? There are many other magical river cruise options to explore!

Beyond Disney: Top River Cruise Lines You’ll Love

After helping my own parents book an Avalon river cruise through Portugal (sailing this fall!), I’ve discovered the incredible variety of river cruise experiences available. Here are some of the best options for Disney fans looking to explore Europe’s waterways:

Avalon Waterways: Panoramic Views & Flexibility

Perfect for: Disney fans who love both structure and freedom to explore Signature features:

    • Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that slide open
    • “Active & Discovery” itineraries with multiple excursion choices each day
    • Flexible dining times and casual dress code

European River Cruises
Avalon Tapestry

I recently booked my parents on Avalon’s Vida Portugal cruise through the Douro River Valley, known for its terraced vineyards and charming medieval towns. They were drawn to Avalon’s relaxed atmosphere and those incredible panoramic windows that essentially turn your entire suite into a balcony!

European River Cruises. Avalon.
Avalon Panorama Suite

AmaWaterways: Premium Experiences & Exceptional Dining

Perfect for: Foodies and active Disney fans

Signature features:

    • The cruise line Disney chose as their partner for a reason!
    • Award-winning cuisine with regional specialties
    • Included small-group shore excursions
    • Wellness activities including fitness classes and onboard bikes

European River Cruises. AMA Waterways.
AmaWaterways

Beyond their Disney partnership sailings, AmaWaterways offers dozens of itineraries with the same excellent ships and service. Their attention to detail and personalized service will remind you of your favorite Disney experiences.

European River Cruises, Ama Waterways
Ama Waterways – Dining

Viking River Cruises: Scandinavian Elegance & Cultural Immersion

Perfect for: Adult Disney fans who appreciate Epcot’s cultural experiences

Signature features:

    • Sleek, modern Scandinavian design
    • Cultural enrichment programs including lectures and demonstrations
    • Included shore excursion in every port
    • Complimentary wine and beer with meals

Viking’s “longships” are known for their clean design and cultural focus. If you love learning about different cultures at Epcot, Viking’s emphasis on destination immersion will be right up your alley.

European River Cruises. Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises

Uniworld: Boutique Luxury & Artistic Flair

Perfect for: Fans of Disney’s deluxe resorts and attention to themed detail

Signature features:

    • Absolutely stunning ship interiors with unique, boutique designs for each vessel
    • Ultra-inclusive pricing (including premium spirits and gratuities)
    • Exceptional service with one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios
    • Exclusive excursions and unique experiences

European River Cruises. Uniworld River Cruises
Uniworld

Uniworld ships are like floating boutique hotels, each designed to reflect the regions they sail through. The attention to detail in their theming would impress even the most ardent Disney design enthusiast!

Emerald Cruises: Contemporary Style & Great Value

Perfect for: Younger Disney fans and families looking for modern amenities

Signature features:

    • Contemporary ship design with indoor pools that convert to movie theaters
    • Excellent value for premium experience
    • Good mix of included activities and personal exploration time
    • Relaxed atmosphere appealing to younger travelers

European River Cruises, Emerald River Cruises
Emerald River Cruises

Emerald offers a fresh, contemporary take on river cruising that appeals to younger travelers and those new to river cruising. Their innovative ships include features like infinity pools that transform into cinema spaces for evening movies.

Most Popular European River Cruise Routes

European rivers flow through the continent’s most enchanting regions. Here are the magical journeys that await:

The Rhine River: Castles & Fairytales

Germany, France, Switzerland, Netherlands

If you love Disney castles, the Middle Rhine will take your breath away with more than 40 castles in a 40-mile stretch! Wind through the famous Rhine Gorge, explore medieval towns, and visit the Black Forest—the setting that inspired many Grimm’s fairy tales (and later, Disney classics).

European River Cruises. Fairytale Castles
Rhine River

Don’t miss: Marksburg Castle, Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, and Rüdesheim’s charming wine taverns.

The Danube River: Imperial Grandeur

Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria

Europe’s second-longest river flows through the former capitals of the Habsburg Empire. Marvel at Budapest’s illuminated skyline, explore Vienna’s imperial palaces, and discover charming villages nestled along the riverbanks.

European River Cruises. Danube River. Budapest.
Danube River, Budapest

Don’t miss: Budapest’s thermal baths, Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace (a real-life castle!), and the stunning Wachau Valley.

The Douro River: Portugal’s Hidden Gem

Portugal, Spain

Winding through dramatic terraced vineyards and pristine countryside, the Douro offers a more serene river cruise experience. The “River of Gold” delivers stunning natural beauty, delicious port wine, and authentic Portuguese culture.

European River Cruises, Duoro River, Porto
Duoro River, Porto

Don’t miss: Porto’s colorful riverside district, traditional Fado music performances, and visits to family-owned vineyards.

The Seine River: Parisian Romance

France

Sail from Paris through the heart of Normandy on this art and history-focused route. Visit Monet’s gardens in Giverny, explore D-Day beaches, and enjoy Paris—a city that inspired Disney’s Ratatouille, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, and the Aristocats.

European River Cruises. Seine River.
Seine River

Don’t miss: Evening illumination cruises in Paris, Rouen’s medieval old town, and Normandy’s moving D-Day memorials.

The Rhône & Saône Rivers: Provençal Charm

France

Journey through the South of France from Lyon to Avignon and Arles, exploring lavender fields, vineyards, and the landscapes that inspired Van Gogh. This food and wine lover’s paradise will delight anyone who enjoys the French-inspired areas of Epcot.

European River Cruises. Rhone River
Rhone River

Don’t miss: Lyon’s culinary scene, Avignon’s Papal Palace, and wine tasting in Beaujolais.

When to Book Your European River Cruise

River cruises typically operate from March through December, with each season offering unique experiences:

    • Spring (March-May): Blooming flowers, fewer crowds, cooler temperatures
    • Summer (June-August): Warmest weather, outdoor cafés, longer daylight hours
    • Fall (September-October): Wine harvests, beautiful foliage, pleasant temperatures
    • Holiday Markets (November-December): Magical Christmas markets, festive atmosphere

European River Cruises. Holiday Markets
Viking River Cruises, Holiday Markets

Pro tip: Unlike Disney vacations where you often need to book a year or more in advance, river cruises can sometimes offer great deals 3-6 months out. However, for prime summer dates or specific cabins, I still recommend booking 9-12 months ahead.

Perfect for Multi-Generational Travel

One thing I’ve discovered while planning my parents’ river cruise is how perfect these voyages are for multi-generational travel. If you’ve enjoyed bringing grandparents along on a Disney vacation, consider a European river cruise for your next family adventure!

Benefits for multi-generational groups:

    • Varied excursion options for different activity levels
    • Convenient unpacking once while seeing multiple destinations
    • Inclusive pricing that makes budgeting straightforward
    • Common spaces for family gatherings
    • Something for everyone: history, culture, food, scenic cruising

European River Cruises. Multigenerational travel

Ready to Explore Europe’s Rivers?

As your travel advisor, I can help you navigate the many options to find the perfect river cruise for your travel style, interests, and budget. Whether you want the familiar Disney touch with Adventures by Disney or are ready to explore one of the premium cruise lines like Avalon, AmaWaterways, Viking, Uniworld, or Emerald, I’ll guide you through the process.

River cruising might just be your family’s next magical adventure beyond Disney! Contact me to start planning your journey through Europe’s enchanting waterways.

Have you ever taken a river cruise or are you considering one? What questions do you have? Let me know in the comments below!

 

 

 

 

 

Email me today to start dreaming about your PERFECT European River Cruise Vacation!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

P.S. I help clients book European river cruises through all major cruise lines including Adventures by Disney, Avalon, AmaWaterways, Viking, Uniworld, Emerald, and more. Contact me for current promotions and personalized recommendations!