(NC) River cruises can offer travellers a unique way to experience Europe’s cities, towns and countryside. By following its many historic rivers, cruises often take vacationers through multiple renowned food regions in a single trip. Here are three rivers to consider cruising if you’re looking for the true foodie experience:
The Danube:
Wander through the bustling Grand Central Market of Budapest, Hungary, infused with aromas of paprika and garlic. Enjoy traditional dishes like rich beef goulash simmered in spices and freshly baked chimney cakes dusted with sugar.
In Nuremberg, Germany, experience hearty Bavarian cuisine featuring succulent pork knuckle, smoky bratwurst and warm pretzels straight from the oven. Sample local beers brewed in ancient rock-cut cellars, or apple strudel paired with crisp regional rieslings.
Outside Vienna, Austria, sample some of the region’s renowned wines, such as grüner veltliner and riesling, which thrive in the area’s mineral-rich soils. In the city proper, experience the famed café culture, with velvety coffees served alongside Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and enrobed in glossy chocolate ganache.
The Garonne:
Take advantage of France’s legendary Bordeaux wine region , where rich reds are paired with decadent duck confit or dry-aged ribeye. Try traditional desserts, like canelés, vanilla-and-rum pastries with a soft custard middle and a crisp exterior.
You can elevate the Bordeaux experience with tour companies like Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, which offers passengers unique culinary experiences. Start with a guided tour to source local produce from the regional markets and finish with hands-on cooking classes led by expert chefs using fresh, local ingredients.
The Rhine:
Enjoy fresh oysters, decadent Belgian chocolates and craft beers in the shadow of medieval castles. You can visit the nearby Moselle Valley to enjoy vibrant white wines, ideal for pairing with its local dishes. Try regional specialties like monkfish, wild boar ragout and tresterfleish, a sweet and savoury pork marinated in the pulpy grape pomace left over from winemaking.
A river cruise is an opportunity to experience travel and food in a completely different way. Sharing meals with locals and fellow guests lets travellers build connections to the regions they visit and the unique food each area offers. Find more culinary inspiration at scenic.ca/europerivercruises.
