Riviera Travel Unveils New 15-Day Grand Tour: A Seamless Exploration of Southern Italy and the Blue Danube River Cruise Experience

Published on December 12, 2025

In an exciting new development for travel enthusiasts, Riviera Travel has unveiled its latest addition to its Grand Tour collection—a new 15-day tour that promises an unforgettable blend of southern Italy’s historical charm and the cultural treasures of the Blue Danube River. This latest offering, set to launch in 2027, marks another significant expansion in Riviera’s portfolio of immersive European land and river cruises, offering travelers a seamless journey that covers some of the most iconic sites in Europe.

The Grand Tour: A Taste of Italy & The Blue Danube Cruise is designed to offer guests a combination of luxury accommodations, expert-guided excursions, and a week-long river cruise on either the Geoffrey Chaucer or Riviera Radiance ships. This unique experience showcases southern Italy’s rich cultural landscape before embarking on a spectacular cruise through some of Europe’s most historic cities along the Blue Danube.

A Journey Through Southern Italy: Exploring Lecce, Matera, and Beyond

The adventure begins in southern Italy, where travelers will immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of Lecce, known for its stunning baroque architecture. The land tour also takes guests to Alberobello, famous for its traditional trulli houses, as well as the ancient cave dwellings of Matera, which have been inhabited for thousands of years. Further explorations include a stop at the historic streets of Bari and the coastal towns of Otranto, each rich in history and culture.

Among the standout features of the land portion is the traditional lunch at a family-run masseria, a unique opportunity to taste authentic Italian cuisine in a stunning rural setting. This first week sets the stage for a seamless transition to the second week—an unforgettable journey along the Danube River.

The Blue Danube: From Vienna to Budapest, A Cruise Like No Other

Following their Italian exploration, travelers will embark on a luxurious cruise along the Danube River, one of Europe’s most culturally significant waterways. The river cruise visits iconic cities, including Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, where guests can explore historical landmarks, stunning architecture, and vibrant local culture. Highlights include visits to Vienna’s Opera House, Budapest’s Castle Hill, and the scenic Dürnstein village, famous for its medieval abbey.

A visit to Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides a stunning historical backdrop for the cruise, offering breathtaking views of the river and surrounding landscapes. In Budapest, guests will be treated to an exclusive Hungarian folklore show, providing a perfect cultural immersion to round off the Danube portion of the journey.

Exclusive Culinary and Cultural Experiences on the Grand Tour

This luxurious 15-day tour is not only about sightseeing; it also emphasizes culinary experiences that reflect the best of each region. Whether it’s enjoying a local Italian wine and food pairing in southern Italy or indulging in the rich flavors of Hungarian cuisine during the Budapest stop, this Grand Tour is a true celebration of European gastronomy. Guests will also be able to enjoy an all-inclusive drinks package during the river cruise, enhancing the dining experience throughout the journey.

One of the main draws of this tour is the attention to guided excursions, where knowledgeable guides lead guests through the best attractions in each city, providing insider knowledge about the history and culture that make each destination unique.

Riviera Travel’s Commitment to Luxury and Seamless Travel

As Stuart Milan, President of North America for Riviera Travel, explained that travelers were seeking seamless, immersive experiences that allowed them to explore the best of Europe without the hassle of planning multiple trips. Their new Grand Tour itinerary will offer just that, combining the beauty and charm of southern Italy with the rich culture and history of the Blue Danube.

Riviera Travel’s reputation for providing luxurious, guided tours is reinforced through this latest addition, as the company continues to cater to a growing demand for unique European journeys that blend luxury travel with deep cultural experiences. With its luxurious accommodations, curated itineraries, and all-inclusive cruise offerings, this Grand Tour promises to set a new standard for fine European travel.

Booking and Pricing: A Limited Opportunity

As with all luxury travel experiences, early bookings for the Grand Tour are highly encouraged. Travelers looking to secure a spot on this exclusive 15-day tour will want to act quickly, as limited availability and high demand are expected once reservations open. Guests can expect a well-curated experience, with the pricing for the tasting menu package at approximately $165 per person, offering a journey through Italy and the Danube’s best culinary offerings.

Why This Grand Tour Should Be on Your Bucket List

For those looking to explore Europe in the most luxurious and comfortable way possible, Riviera Travel’s Grand Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience two of Europe’s most iconic destinations. With its seamless combination of land exploration and river cruising, guests can expect an unforgettable journey that mixes cultural immersion with fine dining and luxury travel.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or new to European river cruising, this new 15-day Grand Tour promises to deliver an experience like no other, with plenty of opportunities to indulge in the region’s rich culture, history, and gastronomy. Don’t miss out on what promises to be one of the most sought-after tours of 2027.