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A gourmet cruise through seven stunning European destinations.
River cruising is a relaxing and picturesque way to see some of Europe’s great cities and taste some of the world’s best cuisine along the way. The knowledgeable and experienced team at helloworld can book this unforgettable holiday experience.
Onboard an APT European river cruise you’ll be spoilt for choice. They are the only river cruise line inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs – one of the world’s most prestigious culinary organisations, offering guests up to seven dining experiences onboard.
From degustation-style dinners to casual snacks, they believe that you cannot holiday well, if you haven’t eaten well. All dining experiences on APT river cruises are part of the all-inclusive onboard lifestyle, so you can relax knowing the bill is taken care of.
Top Destinations
1. Salzburg (Salzach): Austria
Culinary delights abound in Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and home to The Sound of Music. This historic city is a favourite for churches, castles and wiener schnitzel. You haven’t eaten wiener schnitzel until you’ve had one here. For dessert, order what the locals order, Salzburger nockerl. This meringue-like dish is to die for. Travelling with APT, you’ll also be treated to a Royal Invitation – travel on an exclusive private journey on the decadent Majestic Imperator Train, a replica of the Habsburg train built from the original plans. Speak to your helloworld expert to help you unlock all the treasures of Salzburg.
2. Libourne (Dordogne): France
Libourne is the wine-making capital of northern Gironde, with an attractive and active town square. Try the local delicacies at the cafes and patisseries that line the square. There are many castles in the Gironde department and Libourne is no exception to the rule! Don’t miss the Château de Vayres – one of the most beautiful monuments of the Aquitaine region. For your APT Freedom of Choice activity perhaps join a guide for a tour of Bergerac to discover the wonderfully restored Old Town. Another option is to tour Libourne and visit a caviar estate. The experts at helloworld can help you make the most of your precious time here.
3. Porto (Douro): Portugal
Porto is the home of the famous fortified Port Wine, and a tour at a local port house in Gaia is a must. Talk to your helloworld expert for insider knowledge on the best tours to book and the finest cellars to visit. Also not to be missed is the Ribeira district, a medieval riverfront quarter of Porto and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Narrow alleyways, cobbled streets and brightly coloured houses lead charmingly down towards the waterfront. Try the tripe stew, a traditional dish of Porto or treat yourself at The Yeatman restaurant, which was awarded a Michelin Star in 2011.
4. Budapest (Danube): Hungary
The beautiful Danube splits Budapest into distinct halves. But the locals aren’t divided when it comes to food. Goulash, stuffed peppers, cabbage rolls, and Fatányéros (a mixed grill of beef and pork) are on almost every menu. It’s a hearty fare so get out at dusk and stroll the riverbank with the locals and be enchanted by the lights of the remarkable Hungarian capital. Or why not treat yourself to one of APT’s signature experiences – marvelling at the State Opera House on a guided tour whilst you enjoy a private opera recital.
5. Beaujolais Region (Saône): France
Beaujolais is a truly enchanted part of France with a hilly landscape, charming hilltop villages and its famous vineyards. For your APT Freedom of Choice activity perhaps choose to explore the natural area known as The Domes, home to more than one thousand ponds. You’ll visit a farm to sample an array of homemade products. Continue on to the tiny, idyllic French village of Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne where those who are feeling adventurous can sample the local specialty – frog legs. Alternatively, enjoy some time at leisure in the village of Oingt, perched on a hill and surrounded by Beaujolais vineyards. Then head to a family-owned winery for a private tour and wine tasting. Ask your helloworld expert for the inside scoop on wine tours and what to eat.
6. Bordeaux (Garonne): France
Learn the secrets of Bordeaux’s world-famous vineyards with a visit to the glorious Chateau Pape Clement. This Grand Cru Classes estate is one of APT’s Signature Experiences. But there’s more to Bordeaux than their famous wines. Be sure to try the chevre chaud (melted goats cheese on toast), escargots and magret de Canard (duck breast). The world-famous ‘Pruneaux D’Agen’ makes a great gift, if you can get them home without eating them. A helloworld expert can help you discover all the unique tastes and sights of this famous place.
7. Cadillac (Garonne): France
This city isn’t named after the car; the car is named after the city’s founder who also founded Detroit. But Cadillac is about as far as you can get from America. As you wander through the quaint old town, take in beautiful Château de Cadillac, which overlooks the Garonne River. For your APT Freedom of Choice activity perhaps choose to visit Sauternes where you’ll tour two historic chateaux then try the region’s famous dessert wine. ‘Noble Rot’ is the glorious process that goes into making these famous sauternes. For the very best local knowledge speak to your helloworld expert.
Take the trip of a lifetime and enjoy all the tastes and flavours of Europe’s most stunning riverside destinations on an APT cruise booked with helloworld.
Being the experts in everywhere, helloworld have considered every moment of your hard-earned holiday to ensure it’s stress-free, rewarding and memorable. And an APT cruise is the best way to experience Europe – from the outfitting of the vessels to the quality of the food; all aspects of the journey have been meticulously researched and planned for you.
Tours are superbly well organised with experienced and approachable guides who go out of their way to make things easy for the traveller who wants everything taken care of.
To book an APT luxury river cruise and explore Europe’s most beautiful and unforgettable destinations, just call 13 14 15 or pop online to helloworld.com.au/agents and chat to your local helloworld agent today.