5 festivals to see on a river cruise
Updated February 2017
A river cruise can be a leisurely and exciting way to explore a new destination. From cruising the diverse and scenic riverbanks to stepping ashore in the heart of the city, there is plenty to see and do depending on your preferred pace of holiday.
Most river cruises provide ample opportunities to explore on foot. Make a point to delve into new destinations whilst in port and you can enjoy local cuisine, embrace new cultures and see a whole new way of life. Depending on when you chose to cruise you may be lucky enough to catch unique community events, celebrations or local festivals during your trip.
With river cruises available worldwide, the breadth of new and exciting experiences is endless. Check out a few of our favourite events below which you could encounter on your next river cruise.
Rhine in Flames
Sail on a Rhine river cruise in summer and you might just catch the Rhein in Flammen festival which is held in various locations from Rudesheim to Bonn every year from May to September. You can expect a large audience of around a quarter of a million enjoying a fantastic firework display with flames and romantic flair amidst this beautiful castle-lined region.
Dates in 2017:
Bonn - 06.05.2017
Koblenz - 12.08.2017
Budapest Summer Festival
Held between June and August, the Summer Festival is an incredible opportunity to experience the arts and music of Budapest. With musical performances from the Budapest Symphony and various jazz groups, open-air theatrical productions, exhibitions and more. Combine your river cruise with a stay in Budapest to make the most of the wide range of cultural programmes.
Mardi Gras
The unique and rarely touched region of the Mississippi river takes river cruisers through some of USA’s famous musical and cultural hotspots, including Memphis and New Orleans. New Orleans in particular is known for the Mardi Gras festival where parades and floats move through the city daily. Cruise the Mississippi with American Queen Steamboat Company.
The Vienna Festival
As one of the icons of music and culture, Vienna holds a yearly festival highly regarded for its musical productions, from classical performances to operas and exhibitions. Stop in Vienna between May and June and you can see prime examples of Austria’s cultural magnificence. Explore Austria when you river cruise the Danube.
Oktoberfest
Usually during the last week of September, Oktoberfest is the most famous beer festival in the world. Say prost! (cheers!) with the locals in Munich as you learn of Bavarian traditions, enjoy the locally brewed beers and experience a whole host of celebrations. See Munich on a river fly-cruise, ask one of our sales agents for more details.
At Iglu Cruise we tailor-make our cruise holidays. If you can't find an itinerary to suit your festival plans, please speak to one of our cruise agents who can help.