Relaxing River Cruises

Bridget McGrouther enjoys all-inclusive luxury as well as the beauty of Eastern Europe

-  BRIDGET MCGROUTHER

For those not sure if they'll like cruising, a five-day voyage through some of the most beautiful cities in Europe may be an ideal way to test the water. An all-inclusive scenic luxury river cruise on their fleet of Space-Ships includes fine dining and drinks on board as well as excursions, entertainment, e-bikes and an enrichment programme of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, so what's not to love?

There is no danger of sea sickness on the river and you can watch the world go by as you relax with a G&T - all included in the fare. Or book a treatment at the on-board spa for extra indulgence to unwind.

Tastes of Imperial Europe is a short but magical itinerary floating past fairy tale castles, Baroque palaces and medieval treasures along the Danube as it meanders from Hungary through Slovakia to Austria.

A guided coach tour allows you to visit Buda and Pest's many highlights, including its iconic Parliament and emotive shoe memorial along the riverbank depicting lives lost during WWII. Hero's Square, built to mark the thousandth anniversary of Hungary, is incredibly impressive, as is the panoramic vantage point of the Fisherman's Bastion, with the city spread out below.