Discover the World One River at a Time

In March, I had the opportunity to attend the River Cruise Expo in Vienna, Austria, and it was nothing short of incredible. Traveling to Europe always takes a little extra effort, but stepping outside our daily routine to experience other cultures is so worth it. I truly believe our lives are enriched when we learn from others’ perspectives.

So, what is the River Cruise Expo? Hosted by ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors), the event featured 10 cruise brands and 16 ships. I spent the week touring staterooms, dining onboard, and learning directly from cruise executives what makes each brand unique. And yes—each one has its own personality! Whether you’re looking for something luxurious, adventurous, or low-key, there’s a river cruise for everyone.

With 1,600 attendees, many of us stayed right on the ships. I was aboard the Avalon Passion during the expo and absolutely loved the experience. But the real magic started afterward when I boarded the AmaLea from AmaWaterways for a scenic sailing from Vienna to Vilshofen.

If you’ve never experienced a river cruise, imagine floating peacefully through Europe, docking in city centers where excursions are just steps away. No long bus rides—just immersive exploration. One day it’s hiking to a castle, the next it’s biking through vineyards or strolling through historic towns. And in many ports, there’s even time to enjoy dinner off the ship.

Onboard dining was another highlight—local dishes, fresh ingredients, and wine from the very regions we visited. Some cruise lines include drinks with dinner, which made it even more of a treat.

One moment that stuck with me was a guide sharing how, during her lifetime in the same city, she had technically lived in three different countries due to political shifts. Her personal stories made the history feel alive in a way that’s hard to describe—something you just have to experience.

I’m already planning my next river cruise and would love for you to come along! If you’re curious about river cruising or ready to plan your own adventure, keep Visit the Magic Travel in mind. Whether it’s a group trip or something just for your family, I’d love to help you explore the rivers of Europe.